Friends of the Global Fund Europe’s Post

📝 A backdrop to many of the remaining challenges is the widening funding gap for the global HIV response. A total of US$ 20.8 billion (constant 2019 US$) was available for HIV programmes in low- and middle-income countries in 2022—2.6% less than in 2021 and well short of the US$ 29.3 billion needed by 2025 (Figure 0.3). Having increased substantially in the early 2010s, #HIV funding has fallen back to the same level as in 2013. #UNAIDS analysis shows that where HIV prevention funding has increased, HIV incidence has declined. Currently, the regions with the biggest funding gaps—eastern Europe and central Asia and the Middle East and North #Africa—are making the least headway against their HIV epidemics. Some countries where HIV incidence is declining, including the Dominican Republic, #India, #Kyrgyzstan and #Togo, are putting between 3% and 16% of HIV spending towards prevention programmes for people from key populations. More funding for prevention programmes, especially among key populations, is badly needed—as is smarter, more cost-effective use of those funds. Source: UNAIDS financial estimates and projections, 2023 (https://lnkd.in/dJzBZEiP); Stover J, Glaubius R, Teng Y, et al. Modeling the epidemiological impact of the UNAIDS 2025 targets to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. PLoS Med. 2021;18(10):e1003831. Note: the resource estimates are presented in constant 2019 US dollars (billions). The countries included are those that were classified by the World Bank in 2020 as being low- or middle-income countries. The global HIV funding gap is widening: 👋 Figure 0.3 Resource availability for HIV in low- and middle-income countries by source, 2010–2022 and 2025 target. 👇

Brief History of the National Council on AIDS (NCA) Coming up in September 2024 1. **Background and Establishment** - **Global HIV/AIDS Crisis**: The emergence of HIV/AIDS in the late 20th century became a significant global health crisis. The epidemic had devastating effects worldwide, prompting governments, international organizations, and communities to take action. - **Formation of NCA**: In response to the increasing number of HIV/AIDS cases, many countries established national bodies to address the crisis. The National Council on AIDS was formed in several countries as part of a strategic move to provide a coordinated national response to the epidemic. For instance, in Nigeria, the National Council on AIDS was established as a high-level policy and advisory body aimed at guiding and overseeing national HIV/AIDS strategies. #### 2. **Roles and Responsibilities** - **Policy Development**: The NCA plays a crucial role in formulating national HIV/AIDS policies and ensuring their implementation across different sectors. - **Coordination**: The council coordinates efforts among various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international bodies, and communities. - **Resource Mobilization**: It helps in mobilizing resources from both domestic and international sources to fund HIV/AIDS programs and initiatives. - **Advocacy and Awareness**: The NCA is actively involved in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, reducing stigma, and promoting prevention measures. #### 3. **Major Milestones** - **Comprehensive National Plans**: Over the years, the NCA has been instrumental in developing comprehensive national strategic plans to combat HIV/AIDS, focusing on prevention, treatment, care, and support. - **Global Partnerships**: The council has forged partnerships with international organizations such as UNAIDS, WHO, and the Global Fund to enhance its efforts in tackling HIV/AIDS. - **Integration with Health Systems**: Efforts have been made to integrate HIV/AIDS programs with broader health systems to ensure sustainability and improve overall healthcare delivery. - **Progress in Reducing Prevalence**: In many countries, the efforts of the NCA have contributed to a decline in HIV prevalence rates, increased access to antiretroviral therapy, and improved quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS. #### 4. **Challenges and Future Directions** - **Evolving Epidemic**: The NCA continues to face challenges such as emerging drug resistance, socio-economic disparities, and maintaining the momentum of HIV/AIDS programs. ### Conclusion The National Council on AIDS has played a vital role in shaping national responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. By coordinating efforts, formulating policies, and mobilizing resources, the NCA has made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS and continues to adapt its strategies to meet the changing landscape of the epidemic.

PAUSING FUNDs for HIV/AIDS PROGRAM and it's GLOBAL EFFECT Pausing funding for HIV/AIDS programs by the US could have severe global consequences. The US is one of the largest donors to global health programs, including HIV/AIDS initiatives, and a significant portion of these funds come from the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).¹ *Global Impact:* - _Treatment Disruptions_: Pausing funding could disrupt treatment for millions of people living with HIV/AIDS, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where US support is crucial. - _Increased Mortality Rates_: Without sustained funding, mortality rates could increase, undermining progress made in controlling the epidemic. - _Reduced Prevention Efforts_: Funding cuts could also impact prevention programs, such as condom distribution, HIV testing, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission services. *Affected Regions:* - _Sub-Saharan Africa_: This region, which bears the largest burden of HIV/AIDS, would be severely impacted by funding disruptions. - _Asia and Eastern Europe_: These regions would also face significant challenges in maintaining HIV/AIDS programs without US support. *Long-term Consequences:* - _Reversal of Progress_: Pausing funding could reverse progress made in controlling the HIV/AIDS epidemic, undermining global health security. - _Increased Healthcare Costs_: In the long run, funding cuts could lead to increased healthcare costs, as untreated HIV/AIDS cases would require more expensive treatment and care. The global community relies heavily on US support for HIV/AIDS programs. Pausing funding would have far-reaching consequences, affecting millions of lives and undermining progress made in controlling the epidemic.

Understanding the spatial relationship of HIV prevalence in Uganda. Understanding the spatial relationship of HIV prevalence in Uganda is a critical component of public health strategy aimed at reducing infection rates and improving healthcare access. The intersection of geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis provides invaluable insights into the underlying patterns of HIV transmission, revealing clusters of high prevalence that necessitate targeted interventions. Research has demonstrated that HIV prevalence in Uganda varies significantly across different regions, influenced by factors such as socioeconomic conditions, access to healthcare, and cultural attitudes toward testing and treatment. According to the work of Aturinde et al. (2019), spatial analysis of HIV-TB co-clustering highlights the urgent need for localized approaches to tackle these interconnected epidemics. High rates of co-infection in specific areas show that merely applying a generalized national strategy is insufficient. Instead, tailored initiatives that take into account local demographics and risk factors can lead to more effective outcomes. Moreover, the scoping review by Boyda et al. (2019) underscores the importance of integrating GIS and spatial analysis into public health planning in Africa. By mapping prevalence data alongside various socio-environmental factors, authorities can identify hotspots that require immediate intervention. Such data-driven strategies are essential for policymakers to allocate resources efficiently, ensuring that high-risk populations receive the attention they deserve. In conclusion, understanding the spatial relationship of HIV prevalence in Uganda is crucial for developing effective public health policies. GIS and spatial analysis not only illuminate the complexities of HIV transmission but also empower stakeholders to implement targeted interventions, thus enhancing the overall effectiveness of HIV prevention and treatment efforts. We must embrace this analytical approach to combat the HIV epidemic and improve health outcomes for all Ugandans. Ministry of Health - Uganda USAID - Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance Centers for Disease Control and Prevention World Health Organization Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP) Lidya MAAZI Makerere University Semitala Fred Collins Francis Wasagami, MPH (Pretoria), MSc (Mak) Dr. Muhwezi Augustin

Reflections on HIV Glasgow: What Do We Need to End the HIV Epidemic by 2030? The HIV Glasgow conference is an important platform for scientific exchange on the latest breakthroughs in HIV treatment, prevention, and care. This year brings invaluable opportunities to explore innovations that could help to transform the lives of millions of people living with HIV around the world. Gilead is presenting new research from across our broad portfolio and pipeline, in our ongoing commitment to bringing our innovations to healthcare providers and communities alike. More importantly, our focus is on contributing to meaningful conversations, together with leading experts, clinicians, researchers, and advocates, on how to move the needle towards achieving a future without HIV.   Transforming Innovation to Meaningful Change The message is clear: there is an urgency to act now. At the same time, HIV is no longer perceived as a pressing public health priority compared to other diseases, and for good reason. Policy advances, targeted strategies and the effective implementation of initiatives along the HIV prevention and care continuum have led to remarkable achievements in reducing the spread of HIV and improving life expectancy for those living with the virus.   However, the shift in attention could hinder efforts to achieve a world without HIV, and the HIV epidemic is far from over: the incidence of new infections was over 300% higher than expected in 2023 (1.3 million new infections vs expected 370,000 UNAIDS target) and is on the rise in some regions and populations disproportionately affected by HIV. To truly achieve our collective vision of meeting the 2030 targets and ending the HIV epidemic, we have to ensure that governments prioritize sustainable, long-term funding for HIV prevention and care. Continued progress requires the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, and we would be wrong to assume that what got us here will get us to 2030.   HIV Glasgow is a valuable platform to spotlight the broader efforts needed to achieve meaningful change. Gilead is committed to advancing progress through partnerships that help break down barriers to care.   Together, we can help bring an end to the epidemic for everyone, everywhere.   #GileadEmployee #HIVGlasgow2024 #HIV

Namibia achieves 99% HIV-free births: About 98,5% of children born to HIV-positive mothers in Namibia last year were HIV-free, health minister Kalumbi Shangula said at a World Health Organisation (WHO) summit last week. He noted that the country has made significant progress in eliminating mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV and hepatitis B. Shangula said Namibia has been certified by the WHO for achieving the silver tier on the path-to-elimination (PTE) of MTCT of the hepatitis B virus, and the bronze tier on the PTE of MTCT of HIV in 2020 and 2021. “The overall MTCT rate of HIV was 4,02% in 2020, which translates to 603 MTCT cases per 100 000 live births, and 4,41% in 2021 [translating to] 594 MTCT cases per 100 000 live births,” he said. Shangula added that public health facilities also provide pre-conception counselling for HIV positive women and men who are planning to conceive, to do so safely. “These services have been decentralised to rural clinics, outreach points and community-based antiretroviral therapy sites to increase access. We have trained community healthcare workers to ensure service availability and quality,” Shangula said. According to the minister, the deployed community health workers are trained and conduct follow-ups on mother-baby pairs at community level until babies graduate from the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programme when they are declared HIV negative and no longer being breastfed. Namibia implemented a government funded PMTCT transmission of HIV programme in 2002. The PMTCT programme is integrated into maternal and child health service delivery settings, namely antenatal care, labour/delivery and postnatal care services. The goal of the PMTCT programme is to eliminate MTCT transmission of HIV with a target to achieve an MTCT rate of less than 2% by 2028 by implementing interventions that address pillars such as prevention of unintended pregnancies in women living with HIV, among others. Shangula used the platform to acknowledge that Namibia received an award from United States global AIDS coordinator and special representative for health diplomacy John Nkengasong for achievements made with the 95-95-95 UNAIDS fast-track targets toward ending AIDS as a public health threat in 2023. Kalumbi Shangula “Namibia achieved 94-97-95. This is another indication of the progress we are making in the overall HIV-AIDS response,” he said. The summit, which brought together delegates from across Africa and key role players in the global health sector, saw the launch of a charter aimed at strengthening Africa’s health workforce through investment by governments and partners. According to Shangula, the Africa Health Workforce Investment Charter is a compass pointing towards a brighter future for Africa with adequate human resources for health, made possible through deliberate interventions of African governments,…

📃Scientific paper: HIV/STD prevalence and test uptake among african in Guangzhou, China: an analysis of data from hospital-based surveillance Abstract: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) cause substantial morbidity and mortality both in African and China. However, there is limited data available on the prevalence of HIV/STDs and the uptake of testing experience ever during in China among African migrants. A venue-based survey was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou to investigate the prevalence of HIV/STDs through laboratory testing and identify the associated factors. A total of 200 eligible participants completed the survey and bring into the analysis from April to October 2019, and the temporary visitors were excluded. The prevalence rates of HIV, syphilis, NG, CT, and HBsAg among the participants were 1.0%, 2.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 5.5%, respectively. The overall reported rate of HIV/STD testing was 37.0%, with rates of 23.0% for HIV, 16.5% for syphilis, 12.5% for NG, 6.5% for genital herpes, 5.0% for condyloma acuminata, and 2.5% for CT. HIV/STD testing was associated with living environment in Guangzhou, having medical insurance in China, and utilizing health services in China in the past year. HIV/STDs are prevalent among Africans in Guangzhou, and the epidemic is likely to spread due to a significant proportion of unprotected sexual behaviors and low rates of HIV/STD testing. Urgent interventions, including targeted health education, promotion of health service utilization, and active surveillance of HIV/STDs, are needed to reduce the risk of HIV/STD transmiss... Continued on ES/IODE ➡️ https://etcse.fr/uKECa ------- If you find this interesting, feel free to follow, comment and share. We need your help to enhance our visibility, so that our platform continues to serve you.

Brief History of the National Council on AIDS (NCA) Coming up in September 2024 1. **Background and Establishment** - **Global HIV/AIDS Crisis**: The emergence of HIV/AIDS in the late 20th century became a significant global health crisis. The epidemic had devastating effects worldwide, prompting governments, international organizations, and communities to take action. - **Formation of NCA**: In response to the increasing number of HIV/AIDS cases, many countries established national bodies to address the crisis. The National Council on AIDS was formed in several countries as part of a strategic move to provide a coordinated national response to the epidemic. For instance, in Nigeria, the National Council on AIDS was established as a high-level policy and advisory body aimed at guiding and overseeing national HIV/AIDS strategies. #### 2. **Roles and Responsibilities** - **Policy Development**: The NCA plays a crucial role in formulating national HIV/AIDS policies and ensuring their implementation across different sectors. - **Coordination**: The council coordinates efforts among various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international bodies, and communities. - **Resource Mobilization**: It helps in mobilizing resources from both domestic and international sources to fund HIV/AIDS programs and initiatives. - **Advocacy and Awareness**: The NCA is actively involved in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, reducing stigma, and promoting prevention measures. #### 3. **Major Milestones** - **Comprehensive National Plans**: Over the years, the NCA has been instrumental in developing comprehensive national strategic plans to combat HIV/AIDS, focusing on prevention, treatment, care, and support. - **Global Partnerships**: The council has forged partnerships with international organizations such as UNAIDS, WHO, and the Global Fund to enhance its efforts in tackling HIV/AIDS. - **Integration with Health Systems**: Efforts have been made to integrate HIV/AIDS programs with broader health systems to ensure sustainability and improve overall healthcare delivery. - **Progress in Reducing Prevalence**: In many countries, the efforts of the NCA have contributed to a decline in HIV prevalence rates, increased access to antiretroviral therapy, and improved quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS. #### 4. **Challenges and Future Directions** - **Evolving Epidemic**: The NCA continues to face challenges such as emerging drug resistance, socio-economic disparities, and maintaining the momentum of HIV/AIDS programs. ### Conclusion The National Council on AIDS has played a vital role in shaping national responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. By coordinating efforts, formulating policies, and mobilizing resources, the NCA has made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS and continues to adapt its strategies to meet the changing landscape of the epidemic.

🌍 World AIDS Day: A Day of Solidarity, Reflection, and Action 🌟 Today, on World AIDS Day, let's reflect on the progress made in the fight against HIV, honour the lives lost, and reaffirm our commitment to ending stigma and discrimination. Thanks to advancements in medicine, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives. Initiatives like U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) have transformed what it means to live with the virus. But the fight isn’t over. Last year HIV still impacted millions worldwide. Over 39 million people were living with HIV globally, and more than 35 million lives were lost to AIDS-related illnesses. Stigma persists, and access to life-saving treatments is still not universal. Every small action we take—from educating ourselves to wearing the iconic red ribbon—makes a difference. So how can we play our part on this day? 👉 Break the stigma by sharing facts, not fear. 👉 Advocate for equal healthcare access worldwide. 👉 Support organisations that uplift and protect those living with HIV. 👉 Take part in regular testing and promote early detection. At examine me, we offer an advanced sexual health test that tests for 8 STDs: Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Trichomoniasis, Mycoplasma, HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C. Prioritise your health today by getting checked up. Prevention is key in the fight against AIDS. The goal is within reach: ending new HIV transmissions by 2030. But it will take collective action, compassion, and commitment from all of us to get there. Let’s keep the conversation going, not just today, but every day. For more information, read our latest blog on World Aids Day! https://lnkd.in/eYFJcC7E

At REACH Nexus and MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions we are doing everything we can to reach those who are undiagnosed with HIV in Canada so that they can "know their status", benefit from life-saving treatments, live healthy and as long as everyone else, and when they are on treatment and their virus is undetectable, they can't pass it on to others - there is a significant public health benefit (U=U; undetectable = untransmittable). Having accurate and easy-to-use HIV self-testing options are critical to reaching people who are undiagnosed. Our goal has been to get both blood and oral fluid HIV self-testing options licensed for Canadians so that they have choice of which test would be best for them. The blood-based INSTI® HIV Self Test was licensed in Canada in November of 2020 because of the studies we completed. This study provides the evidence to show that people can test on their own using the oral fluid-based OraQuick® HIV Self-Test and correctly interpret their results. This study is also what the company needs as part of their application for the test to be considered for licensure by Health Canada. https://lnkd.in/enUthQrn Health Canada | Santé Canada Canadian Institutes of Health Research | Instituts de recherche en santé du Canada Public Health Agency of Canada | Agence de la santé publique du CanadaCanadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR) Unity Health Toronto St. Michael's Hospital St. Michael's Foundation OraSure Technologies