HIV
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Scroll down for featured HIV articles and complete, unsorted HIV archives.
Scroll down for featured HIV articles and complete, unsorted HIV archives.
Featured HIV Articles
An injectable HIV-prevention drug is highly effective — but wildly expensive
NBC News, Sept. 12, 2024
The hotly anticipated results are in from a landmark pair of major clinical trials of a long-acting, injectable HIV-prevention drug that only requires dosing every six months. They are sensational. And yet, as battle-worn public health advocates stand on the front lines of an over four-decade effort to finally bring the U.S. HIV epidemic to heel, they find a cold, hard fact staring back at them: Lenacapavir is extraordinarily expensive.
NBC News, Sept. 12, 2024
The hotly anticipated results are in from a landmark pair of major clinical trials of a long-acting, injectable HIV-prevention drug that only requires dosing every six months. They are sensational. And yet, as battle-worn public health advocates stand on the front lines of an over four-decade effort to finally bring the U.S. HIV epidemic to heel, they find a cold, hard fact staring back at them: Lenacapavir is extraordinarily expensive.
People with HIV cannot be categorically barred from joining the military, judge rules
NBC News, August 21, 2024
Americans with well-treated HIV can no longer be barred from enlisting in the U.S. military, a federal judge ruled, striking down the Pentagon’s last remaining policy limiting the service of those with the virus. “Defendants’ policies prohibiting the accession of asymptomatic HIV-positive individuals with undetectable viral loads into the military are irrational, arbitrary, and capricious," wrote the U.S. District Court judge.
NBC News, August 21, 2024
Americans with well-treated HIV can no longer be barred from enlisting in the U.S. military, a federal judge ruled, striking down the Pentagon’s last remaining policy limiting the service of those with the virus. “Defendants’ policies prohibiting the accession of asymptomatic HIV-positive individuals with undetectable viral loads into the military are irrational, arbitrary, and capricious," wrote the U.S. District Court judge.
Could the new mpox threat cause significant harm in the U.S.?
NBC News, August 18, 2024
As concerns mount about a type of mpox spreading across Africa that’s believed to cause more serious illness, experts expressed cautious optimism that this clade would not spread as broadly in the U.S. or cause health impacts as severe. The risk could be mitigated by immunity from vaccination and previous infection from the outbreak of a different variant that began in 2022; the lack of an animal host; and better health care access, living standards and public health.
NBC News, August 18, 2024
As concerns mount about a type of mpox spreading across Africa that’s believed to cause more serious illness, experts expressed cautious optimism that this clade would not spread as broadly in the U.S. or cause health impacts as severe. The risk could be mitigated by immunity from vaccination and previous infection from the outbreak of a different variant that began in 2022; the lack of an animal host; and better health care access, living standards and public health.
A 7th person with HIV is probably cured after stem cell transplant for leukemia
NBC News, July 18, 2024
A German man has probably been cured of HIV, a medical milestone achieved by only six other people in the more than 40 years since the AIDS epidemic began. The man, who prefers to remain anonymous, was treated for acute myeloid leukemia, or AML, with a stem cell transplant in October 2015. He stopped taking his antiretroviral drugs in September 2018 and remains in viral remission with no rebound. Multiple ultra-sensitive tests have detected no viable HIV in his body.
NBC News, July 18, 2024
A German man has probably been cured of HIV, a medical milestone achieved by only six other people in the more than 40 years since the AIDS epidemic began. The man, who prefers to remain anonymous, was treated for acute myeloid leukemia, or AML, with a stem cell transplant in October 2015. He stopped taking his antiretroviral drugs in September 2018 and remains in viral remission with no rebound. Multiple ultra-sensitive tests have detected no viable HIV in his body.
Appeals court finds 'Obamacare' pillar unconstitutional in suit over HIV-prevention drug
NBC News: June 21, 2024
A federal appeals court found unconstitutional a key component of the Affordable Care Act that grants a health task force the effective authority to require that insurers both cover an array of preventive health interventions and screenings and refrain from imposing out-of-pocket costs for them. If the Supreme Court ultimately overturns this pillar, it could raise related out-of-pocket health care costs.
NBC News: June 21, 2024
A federal appeals court found unconstitutional a key component of the Affordable Care Act that grants a health task force the effective authority to require that insurers both cover an array of preventive health interventions and screenings and refrain from imposing out-of-pocket costs for them. If the Supreme Court ultimately overturns this pillar, it could raise related out-of-pocket health care costs.
CDC says vaccination could protect the U.S. from more dangerous mpox virus
NBC News, May 23, 2024
As concerns mount about a large outbreak of an especially virulent form of mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo and an uptick in U.S. cases since early last year, the mpox vaccine appears to give long-term protection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported. The agency called for more gay and bisexual men to get vaccinated against the virus.
NBC News, May 23, 2024
As concerns mount about a large outbreak of an especially virulent form of mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo and an uptick in U.S. cases since early last year, the mpox vaccine appears to give long-term protection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported. The agency called for more gay and bisexual men to get vaccinated against the virus.
After decades of failures, researchers have renewed hopes for an effective HIV vaccine
NBC News, March 6, 2024
The world needs an HIV vaccine if it ever hopes to beat a virus that still infects over 1 million people a year. Despite 20 years of failures in major HIV vaccine trials — four this decade alone — researchers say recent scientific advances have likely, hopefully, put them on the right track to develop a highly effective vaccine against the virus. But probably not until the 2030s.
NBC News, March 6, 2024
The world needs an HIV vaccine if it ever hopes to beat a virus that still infects over 1 million people a year. Despite 20 years of failures in major HIV vaccine trials — four this decade alone — researchers say recent scientific advances have likely, hopefully, put them on the right track to develop a highly effective vaccine against the virus. But probably not until the 2030s.
A Fading Weapon in the HIV Fight: Condoms
The New York Times, February 27, 2024
Gay and bisexual men are using condoms less than ever, and the decline has been particularly steep among those who are young or Hispanic, according to a new study. The worrisome trend points to an urgent need for better prevention strategies as the nation struggles to beat the H.I.V. epidemic, researchers said. The CDC reports that between 2017 and 2021, the nation saw only an estimated 12 percent decline in HIV transmissions.
The New York Times, February 27, 2024
Gay and bisexual men are using condoms less than ever, and the decline has been particularly steep among those who are young or Hispanic, according to a new study. The worrisome trend points to an urgent need for better prevention strategies as the nation struggles to beat the H.I.V. epidemic, researchers said. The CDC reports that between 2017 and 2021, the nation saw only an estimated 12 percent decline in HIV transmissions.
H.I.V. Groups Warn of Privacy Risks in How C.D.C. Tracks Virus Samples
The New York Times, February 9, 2024
The CDC revised its guidelines for tracking the genetic signatures of viruses collected from people newly diagnosed with HIV, a controversial practice called molecular surveillance used by state and local health departments to curb infections. The agency stopped short of adopting more significant changes that some advocates had pushed for, such as allowing health agencies to opt out in states where people can be prosecuted for transmitting HIV.
The New York Times, February 9, 2024
The CDC revised its guidelines for tracking the genetic signatures of viruses collected from people newly diagnosed with HIV, a controversial practice called molecular surveillance used by state and local health departments to curb infections. The agency stopped short of adopting more significant changes that some advocates had pushed for, such as allowing health agencies to opt out in states where people can be prosecuted for transmitting HIV.
Beleaguered World Health Organization Is Met With Uproar Over Plans to Develop Guidelines on Transgender Healthcare
The New York Sun, February 1, 2024
The WHO has marched into the crucible of trans health care, and is facing outcry after announcing plans to convene a committee to develop “a guideline on the health of trans and gender diverse people.” A global chorus of critics has mobilized to protest the panel. which includes multiple trans activists and few people with relevant advanced degrees, as unqualified.
The New York Sun, February 1, 2024
The WHO has marched into the crucible of trans health care, and is facing outcry after announcing plans to convene a committee to develop “a guideline on the health of trans and gender diverse people.” A global chorus of critics has mobilized to protest the panel. which includes multiple trans activists and few people with relevant advanced degrees, as unqualified.
Gay loneliness and familial trauma take center stage in ‘All of Us Strangers’
NBC News, December 21, 2023
A devastating triumph by Andrew Haigh ("Weekend"), the film concerns the plight of Adam, an isolated writer in his mid-40s, played with tragic stillness by Andrew Scott. Emotionally frozen since his parents’ death, Adam begins to thaw thanks to the gently romantic — and lustful — insistence of his neighbor, Harry. Irish heartthrob Paul Mescal provides a delicate counterpoint to Scott in his portrayal of an adrift queer 20-something.
NBC News, December 21, 2023
A devastating triumph by Andrew Haigh ("Weekend"), the film concerns the plight of Adam, an isolated writer in his mid-40s, played with tragic stillness by Andrew Scott. Emotionally frozen since his parents’ death, Adam begins to thaw thanks to the gently romantic — and lustful — insistence of his neighbor, Harry. Irish heartthrob Paul Mescal provides a delicate counterpoint to Scott in his portrayal of an adrift queer 20-something.
Will first FDA-approved at-home test for gonorrhea, chlamydia ease the epidemic?
NBC News, November 27, 2023
The Food and Drug Administration’s first-ever approval of an at-home test for chlamydia and gonorrhea could help drive earlier detection and treatment of these sexually transmitted infections amid a ballooning epidemic in the U.S. But some sexual health advocates worry that the FDA’s proposal to begin stepping up regulation of over-the-counter self-testing of STIs could backfire.
NBC News, November 27, 2023
The Food and Drug Administration’s first-ever approval of an at-home test for chlamydia and gonorrhea could help drive earlier detection and treatment of these sexually transmitted infections amid a ballooning epidemic in the U.S. But some sexual health advocates worry that the FDA’s proposal to begin stepping up regulation of over-the-counter self-testing of STIs could backfire.
For 'Silver Tsunami' With HIV, New Hope For Healthy Aging
The New York Times, Sept. 10, 2023
People with H.I.V. are achieving the once unthinkable: a steady march into older age. But beginning around age 50, many people HIV face a host of health problems, from heart disease and diabetes to social isolation and cognitive decline. And so the medical research community, which some three decades ago developed lifesaving drugs to keep the virus at bay, is now hunting for new ways to keep older people with HIV healthier.
The New York Times, Sept. 10, 2023
People with H.I.V. are achieving the once unthinkable: a steady march into older age. But beginning around age 50, many people HIV face a host of health problems, from heart disease and diabetes to social isolation and cognitive decline. And so the medical research community, which some three decades ago developed lifesaving drugs to keep the virus at bay, is now hunting for new ways to keep older people with HIV healthier.
Insurers must cover injectable HIV prevention drug — unless courts void mandate
NBC News, August 22, 2023
A health task force’s new endorsement of a long-acting injectable medication for use as HIV prevention will require health insurers to begin covering the pricey drug by 2025. However, the hotly anticipated development is on a legal collision course.
NBC News, August 22, 2023
A health task force’s new endorsement of a long-acting injectable medication for use as HIV prevention will require health insurers to begin covering the pricey drug by 2025. However, the hotly anticipated development is on a legal collision course.
FDA policy allowing more gay and bisexual men to donate blood goes into effect
NBC News, August 7, 2023
In a victory for LGBTQ rights, a broad swath of the U.S. population of gay men became newly able donate blood, thanks to the implementation by the American Red Cross of a landmark recent change in Food and Drug Administration policy. The policy newly permits donations from men in monogamous relationships with other men, as well as those who have not recently engaged in anal sex.
NBC News, August 7, 2023
In a victory for LGBTQ rights, a broad swath of the U.S. population of gay men became newly able donate blood, thanks to the implementation by the American Red Cross of a landmark recent change in Food and Drug Administration policy. The policy newly permits donations from men in monogamous relationships with other men, as well as those who have not recently engaged in anal sex.
In remission from HIV, a sixth person could join the club of those possibly cured
NBC News, July 19, 2023
A European man has been in a state of remission from HIV infection for nearly two years after receiving a stem cell transplant to treat blood cancer. If enough time passes with no signs of viable virus, he could join five people who are considered either definitely or possibly cured of HIV. His case is unique because his transplant wasn't from a donor with a rare genetic abnormality generating HIV-resistant immune cells.
NBC News, July 19, 2023
A European man has been in a state of remission from HIV infection for nearly two years after receiving a stem cell transplant to treat blood cancer. If enough time passes with no signs of viable virus, he could join five people who are considered either definitely or possibly cured of HIV. His case is unique because his transplant wasn't from a donor with a rare genetic abnormality generating HIV-resistant immune cells.
The LGBTQ population is growing, but medical schools haven't caught up
NBC News, June 23, 2023
As an increasing proportion of Americans identify as LGBTQ, leaders in sexual and gender minority health care say that the nation’s medical schools are largely failing to adequately prepare the next generation of doctors to properly care for this population.
NBC News, June 23, 2023
As an increasing proportion of Americans identify as LGBTQ, leaders in sexual and gender minority health care say that the nation’s medical schools are largely failing to adequately prepare the next generation of doctors to properly care for this population.
U.S. progress in HIV fight continues to trail many other rich nations
NBC News, May 23, 2023
New HIV infections continue to ebb only modestly in the United States, while many other wealthy Western nations have posted steep reductions, thanks to more successful efforts overseas to promptly diagnose and treat the virus and promote the HIV prevention pill, PrEP.
NBC News, May 23, 2023
New HIV infections continue to ebb only modestly in the United States, while many other wealthy Western nations have posted steep reductions, thanks to more successful efforts overseas to promptly diagnose and treat the virus and promote the HIV prevention pill, PrEP.
Tennessee blocked $8 million for HIV, now ends up with $13 million, stunning advocates
NBC News, April 21, 2023
Tennessee has gone from blocking $8.3 million in annual federal funds to combat HIV to newly including $9 million in the state budget approved Thursday to combat the virus. This development came after the CDC announced that it will circumvent the state government and continue providing about $4 million in HIV-prevention funds to Tennessee nonprofit groups, despite Gov. Bill Lee’s objections.
NBC News, April 21, 2023
Tennessee has gone from blocking $8.3 million in annual federal funds to combat HIV to newly including $9 million in the state budget approved Thursday to combat the virus. This development came after the CDC announced that it will circumvent the state government and continue providing about $4 million in HIV-prevention funds to Tennessee nonprofit groups, despite Gov. Bill Lee’s objections.
PrEP's promise to change the course of HIV has succeeded—but only for white gay men
NBC News, March 18, 2023
A decade into the era of the HIV prevention pill, called PrEP, efforts to leverage its heralded power to curb new infections have stagnated in the United States. This shortfall is a key reason the nation lags far behind many others in combating HIV, with a national epidemic long plagued by racial inequities and only a modestly declining new infection rate.
NBC News, March 18, 2023
A decade into the era of the HIV prevention pill, called PrEP, efforts to leverage its heralded power to curb new infections have stagnated in the United States. This shortfall is a key reason the nation lags far behind many others in combating HIV, with a national epidemic long plagued by racial inequities and only a modestly declining new infection rate.
Mpox is highly fatal among people with advanced HIV, study finds
NBC News, February 21, 2023
Mpox can have a devastating impact on people with advanced cases of HIV, leading to severe lesions and causing death in as many as 1 in 4 of highly immunocompromised people. This is according to the first major study of mpox in this population. The analysis included 382 people from 28 nations, all of whom had HIV and a CD4 a count below 350. Twenty-seven of these individuals died.
NBC News, February 21, 2023
Mpox can have a devastating impact on people with advanced cases of HIV, leading to severe lesions and causing death in as many as 1 in 4 of highly immunocompromised people. This is according to the first major study of mpox in this population. The analysis included 382 people from 28 nations, all of whom had HIV and a CD4 a count below 350. Twenty-seven of these individuals died.
Bush demanded billions for AIDS in Africa. It paid off.
NBC News, February 7, 2023
George W. Bush’s reputation was forever complicated by war, but a proposal in his 2003 State of the Union became a historic success, resulting in 25 million lives saved from AIDS, 20 million people with HIV provided treatment and 5.5 million babies born to HIV-positive mothers but free of the virus. After two decades, this is the legacy of PEPFAR — the most ambitious U.S. foreign aid program since the Marshall Plan.
NBC News, February 7, 2023
George W. Bush’s reputation was forever complicated by war, but a proposal in his 2003 State of the Union became a historic success, resulting in 25 million lives saved from AIDS, 20 million people with HIV provided treatment and 5.5 million babies born to HIV-positive mothers but free of the virus. After two decades, this is the legacy of PEPFAR — the most ambitious U.S. foreign aid program since the Marshall Plan.
How Tennessee axed millions in HIV funds amid scrutiny from far-right provocateurs
NBC News, February 2, 2023
Tennessee’s recent decision to reject over $8 million in federal funds to combat HIV was motivated, at least in part, by right-wing provocateurs stoking anti-LGBTQ sentiment, according to four sources within the state Health Department. The move by Republican Gov. Bill Lee will hamstring, if not cripple, efforts to combat one of the country’s most poorly controlled epidemics of the virus, HIV advocates said.
NBC News, February 2, 2023
Tennessee’s recent decision to reject over $8 million in federal funds to combat HIV was motivated, at least in part, by right-wing provocateurs stoking anti-LGBTQ sentiment, according to four sources within the state Health Department. The move by Republican Gov. Bill Lee will hamstring, if not cripple, efforts to combat one of the country’s most poorly controlled epidemics of the virus, HIV advocates said.
Another major HIV vaccine trial fails
NBC News, January 18, 2023
The only HIV vaccine in a late-stage trial has failed, researchers announced Wednesday, dealing a significant blow to the effort to control the global HIV epidemic and adding to a decadeslong roster of failed attempts. “It’s obviously disappointing,” Dr. Anthony Fauci. However, he said, “there are a lot of other approaches” early in the HIV-vaccine research pipeline that he finds promising.
NBC News, January 18, 2023
The only HIV vaccine in a late-stage trial has failed, researchers announced Wednesday, dealing a significant blow to the effort to control the global HIV epidemic and adding to a decadeslong roster of failed attempts. “It’s obviously disappointing,” Dr. Anthony Fauci. However, he said, “there are a lot of other approaches” early in the HIV-vaccine research pipeline that he finds promising.
How a select few people have been cured of HIV
PBS's NOVA, October 2022
The five successful HIV cures have been the result of treatments too toxic to attempt on all but a select few. So while they provide a scientific roadmap toward success, they do not necessarily make researchers’ job any easier as they work to develop safe, effective and scalable alternatives.
PBS's NOVA, October 2022
The five successful HIV cures have been the result of treatments too toxic to attempt on all but a select few. So while they provide a scientific roadmap toward success, they do not necessarily make researchers’ job any easier as they work to develop safe, effective and scalable alternatives.
Government can't mandate coverage for drugs that prevent HIV, Texas federal judge rules
NBC News, September 2022
A federal judge in Texas has ruled that a provision of the Affordable Care Act that mandates free coverage of HIV-prevention drugs violates the religious beliefs of a Christian-owned company. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor came in response to a lawsuit filed by Jonathan Mitchell, a former Texas solicitor general.
NBC News, September 2022
A federal judge in Texas has ruled that a provision of the Affordable Care Act that mandates free coverage of HIV-prevention drugs violates the religious beliefs of a Christian-owned company. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor came in response to a lawsuit filed by Jonathan Mitchell, a former Texas solicitor general.
A 5th person is likely cured of HIV, and another is in long-term remission
NBC News, July 27, 2022
Two new cases have advanced the field of HIV cure science. In one, scientists reported that a 66-year-old American man with HIV has possibly been cured of the virus through a stem cell transplant to treat his blood cancer. Spanish researchers have meanwhile determined that a woman who received an immune-boosting regimen in 2006 has been in a state of what they characterize as viral remission.
NBC News, July 27, 2022
Two new cases have advanced the field of HIV cure science. In one, scientists reported that a 66-year-old American man with HIV has possibly been cured of the virus through a stem cell transplant to treat his blood cancer. Spanish researchers have meanwhile determined that a woman who received an immune-boosting regimen in 2006 has been in a state of what they characterize as viral remission.
Millions at risk as COVID-19 and Ukraine war threaten HIV/AIDS gains
Thomson Reuters Foundation, July 2022
The fight against HIV risks being derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS warned, with progress in cutting case numbers reversed in some countries and slowing overall. An estimated 1.5 million people contracted HIV worldwide in 2021, UNAIDS reported, with the number of new cases dropping at the slowest rate since 2016.
Thomson Reuters Foundation, July 2022
The fight against HIV risks being derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS warned, with progress in cutting case numbers reversed in some countries and slowing overall. An estimated 1.5 million people contracted HIV worldwide in 2021, UNAIDS reported, with the number of new cases dropping at the slowest rate since 2016.
Because of Covid, 2020 was a 'lost year' in the fight against HIV, report suggests
NBC News, May 2020
An ambitious new plan by the federal government, marshaled by Dr. Anthony Fauci, to accelerate the battle against the U.S. HIV epidemic appears to have made a markedly disappointing debut. CDC officials have expressed concern that disruptions the country’s Covid-19 response have caused to HIV-related services have inflicted collateral damage that could take years to undo.
NBC News, May 2020
An ambitious new plan by the federal government, marshaled by Dr. Anthony Fauci, to accelerate the battle against the U.S. HIV epidemic appears to have made a markedly disappointing debut. CDC officials have expressed concern that disruptions the country’s Covid-19 response have caused to HIV-related services have inflicted collateral damage that could take years to undo.
Judge strikes down military's limits on service members with HIV
NBC News, April 2022
In a landmark ruling, a federal court has ordered the Defense Department to end a long-standing Pentagon policy forbidding enlisted military service members from deploying in active duty outside the continental U.S. and being commissioned as officers if they have HIV. Supporters hailed it as overdue legal affirmation that people on effective antiretroviral treatment for HIV are healthy and pose no risk to others.
NBC News, April 2022
In a landmark ruling, a federal court has ordered the Defense Department to end a long-standing Pentagon policy forbidding enlisted military service members from deploying in active duty outside the continental U.S. and being commissioned as officers if they have HIV. Supporters hailed it as overdue legal affirmation that people on effective antiretroviral treatment for HIV are healthy and pose no risk to others.
Ukraine war shutters HIV clinics, disrupts drug supplies
Thomson Reuters Foundation
March 2022
Infectious disease experts say the Russian invasion of Ukraine could unleash a public health crisis both in Ukraine and in Europe in HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis C, and opioid use disorder. Until the war began, Ukraine was the rare success story in battling HIV in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, which is the only region in the world to see a substantial recent increase in HIV transmissions.
Thomson Reuters Foundation
March 2022
Infectious disease experts say the Russian invasion of Ukraine could unleash a public health crisis both in Ukraine and in Europe in HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis C, and opioid use disorder. Until the war began, Ukraine was the rare success story in battling HIV in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, which is the only region in the world to see a substantial recent increase in HIV transmissions.
Scientists have possibly cured HIV in a woman for the first time
NBC News, February 2022
An American research team reported that it has possibly cured HIV in a woman for the first time. Building on past successes, as well as failures, in the HIV-cure research field, these scientists used a cutting-edge stem cell transplant method that they expect will expand the pool of people who could receive similar treatment to several dozen annually.
NBC News, February 2022
An American research team reported that it has possibly cured HIV in a woman for the first time. Building on past successes, as well as failures, in the HIV-cure research field, these scientists used a cutting-edge stem cell transplant method that they expect will expand the pool of people who could receive similar treatment to several dozen annually.
New injectable HIV prevention drug fails in seven people
NBC News, February 2022
In a large clinical trial assessing Apretude, ViiV Healthcare’s recently approved injectable drug, as a form of HIV prevention, seven participants contracted the virus despite receiving their injections on schedule. The new findings indicate that, just as with those who take daily pills to prevent HIV, breakthrough infections are possible among people receiving Apretude.
NBC News, February 2022
In a large clinical trial assessing Apretude, ViiV Healthcare’s recently approved injectable drug, as a form of HIV prevention, seven participants contracted the virus despite receiving their injections on schedule. The new findings indicate that, just as with those who take daily pills to prevent HIV, breakthrough infections are possible among people receiving Apretude.
A 'highly virulent' HIV strain is 'no cause for alarm,' scientists say
NBC News, February 2022
Researchers have identified a highly virulent strain of HIV that likely began circulating in the Netherlands in the 1990s and has infected more than 100 people. Left untreated, it leads to a much higher viral load a doubled rate of decline in key immune cells compared with typical HIV infection.
NBC News, February 2022
Researchers have identified a highly virulent strain of HIV that likely began circulating in the Netherlands in the 1990s and has infected more than 100 people. Left untreated, it leads to a much higher viral load a doubled rate of decline in key immune cells compared with typical HIV infection.
Pfizer Covid antiviral pills may be risky with other medications
NBC News, December 2021
As the omicron surge pummels a pandemic-weary nation, the first antiviral pills for Covid-19 promise desperately needed protection for people at risk of severe disease. However, many people prescribed Pfizer’s or Merck’s new medications will require careful monitoring by doctors and pharmacists, and the antivirals may not be safe for everyone, including people with HIV, experts caution.
NBC News, December 2021
As the omicron surge pummels a pandemic-weary nation, the first antiviral pills for Covid-19 promise desperately needed protection for people at risk of severe disease. However, many people prescribed Pfizer’s or Merck’s new medications will require careful monitoring by doctors and pharmacists, and the antivirals may not be safe for everyone, including people with HIV, experts caution.
FDA Approves First Injectable HIV Prevention Drug
NBC News, December 2021
The FDA has approved the first long-acting injectable medication for use as pre-exposure prevention, or PrEP, against HIV. Apretude is an injectable given every two months as an alternative to HIV prevention pills, like Truvada and Descovy, which have been shown to reduce the risk of HIV by 99 percent when taken daily. Two FDA trials analyzing the safety and efficacy of the novel drug found that Apretude was more likely to reduce HIV than the daily oral medications.
NBC News, December 2021
The FDA has approved the first long-acting injectable medication for use as pre-exposure prevention, or PrEP, against HIV. Apretude is an injectable given every two months as an alternative to HIV prevention pills, like Truvada and Descovy, which have been shown to reduce the risk of HIV by 99 percent when taken daily. Two FDA trials analyzing the safety and efficacy of the novel drug found that Apretude was more likely to reduce HIV than the daily oral medications.
Woman's own immune system has possibly cured her of HIV
NBC News, November 2021
For the second time in the four-decade history of the HIV epidemic, researchers have documented a case of an individual's own immune system curing them of HIV. Even after scanning over 1 billion cells from the 30-year-old mother from Argentina with highly sophisticated and sensitive tests, scientists could find no viable viral DNA in her body.
NBC News, November 2021
For the second time in the four-decade history of the HIV epidemic, researchers have documented a case of an individual's own immune system curing them of HIV. Even after scanning over 1 billion cells from the 30-year-old mother from Argentina with highly sophisticated and sensitive tests, scientists could find no viable viral DNA in her body.
NGOs scramble to dampen COVID-19's impact on people living with HIV
Thomson Reuters Foundation, October 2021
HIV professionals battling to maintain services during the COVID-19 pandemic have been adopting innovations - from mailing out prescriptions to scaling up self-testing and video consultations. Their creative approach appears to have helped buck forecasts for a plunge in global HIV treatment rates, though international organisations say the coronavirus has still dealt a blow to the global fight against HIV.
Thomson Reuters Foundation, October 2021
HIV professionals battling to maintain services during the COVID-19 pandemic have been adopting innovations - from mailing out prescriptions to scaling up self-testing and video consultations. Their creative approach appears to have helped buck forecasts for a plunge in global HIV treatment rates, though international organisations say the coronavirus has still dealt a blow to the global fight against HIV.
Long-acting HIV-prevention drugs may be key to beating the epidemic in the U.S.
NBC News, July 2021
Dosed no more frequently than monthly, these experimental drugs offer potential solutions to a problem that has long frustrated the HIV fight: that many at-risk people find adhering to a daily preventive medication too burdensome. But will a critical mass of Black and Latino gay and bisexual men, who comprise nearly half of new HIV diagnoses, end up taking these drugs?
NBC News, July 2021
Dosed no more frequently than monthly, these experimental drugs offer potential solutions to a problem that has long frustrated the HIV fight: that many at-risk people find adhering to a daily preventive medication too burdensome. But will a critical mass of Black and Latino gay and bisexual men, who comprise nearly half of new HIV diagnoses, end up taking these drugs?
PrEP, the HIV prevention pill, must now be totally free under almost all insurance plans
NBC News, July 2021
In a move hailed as potentially transformative by HIV advocates, the federal government has issued a guidance instructing almost all insurance plans to stop charging all out-of-pocket fees for the HIV prevention pill, known as PrEP. This includes the medication itself and, crucially, the quarterly clinic visits and lab tests required to maintain the prescription.
NBC News, July 2021
In a move hailed as potentially transformative by HIV advocates, the federal government has issued a guidance instructing almost all insurance plans to stop charging all out-of-pocket fees for the HIV prevention pill, known as PrEP. This includes the medication itself and, crucially, the quarterly clinic visits and lab tests required to maintain the prescription.
'This will shut us down': HIV prevention clinics brace for Gilead reimbursement cuts
NBC News, July 2021
HIV prevention clinics are facing a fiscal crisis owing to the vagaries of an arcane federal drug pricing law, with a bare minimum of $100 million annually expected to drain from the nonprofits starting in 2022. This devastating loss of funds, which is expected to shut down some clinics, comes just as the federal government has ramped up spending in an effort to essentially end the HIV epidemic by 2030.
NBC News, July 2021
HIV prevention clinics are facing a fiscal crisis owing to the vagaries of an arcane federal drug pricing law, with a bare minimum of $100 million annually expected to drain from the nonprofits starting in 2022. This devastating loss of funds, which is expected to shut down some clinics, comes just as the federal government has ramped up spending in an effort to essentially end the HIV epidemic by 2030.
HIV After COVID: Anthony Fauci and an Army of Researchers Seek to Regain Momentum
The Guardian, June 2021
HIV was instrumental in training armies within the medical, scientific and public health sectors to better fight COVID-19. However, the new pandemic has apparently worsened its predecessor. This comes during the initial roll-out of the national plan Dr. Anthony Fauci designed to ramp up federal spending on HIV with a goal of ending that virus as a public health threat by 2030.
The Guardian, June 2021
HIV was instrumental in training armies within the medical, scientific and public health sectors to better fight COVID-19. However, the new pandemic has apparently worsened its predecessor. This comes during the initial roll-out of the national plan Dr. Anthony Fauci designed to ramp up federal spending on HIV with a goal of ending that virus as a public health threat by 2030.
AIDS and ACT UP: Sarah Schulman Puts Women and People of Color Back at the Heart of the Story
The Guardian, May 2021
Just weeks shy of the 40th anniversary of the CDC’s ominous first report of what became known as AIDS, the veteran AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) activist has come armed with a 700-page magnum opus she hopes will set the record straight about one of the most consequential social movements of the 20th century.
The Guardian, May 2021
Just weeks shy of the 40th anniversary of the CDC’s ominous first report of what became known as AIDS, the veteran AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) activist has come armed with a 700-page magnum opus she hopes will set the record straight about one of the most consequential social movements of the 20th century.
As Meth Overdoses Soar, Scientists Develop First Regimen to Treat Addiction to the Drug
NBC News, February 2021
Just as the National Institute on Drug Abuse has issued a report detailing the U.S.'s soaring rate of overdose deaths tied to meth, a national research team has reached a milestone by developing the first safe and efficacious medication-based treatment for addiction to the often ruinous stimulant.
NBC News, February 2021
Just as the National Institute on Drug Abuse has issued a report detailing the U.S.'s soaring rate of overdose deaths tied to meth, a national research team has reached a milestone by developing the first safe and efficacious medication-based treatment for addiction to the often ruinous stimulant.
"New disease, no treatment, no cure": How Dr. Fauci's Fight Against AIDS Prepared Him For COVID-19
The Guardian, December 2020
Marking his 80th birthday and his 40 years at the head of the global HIV research response, Fauci projected that the history will recall him perhaps most notably for his efforts to provide HIV treatment in low-income nations. He doesn't want to retire until the HIV epidemic is over, preferably thanks to a vaccine. Then he would like to pen a memoir as perhaps the only person to advise seven presidents.
The Guardian, December 2020
Marking his 80th birthday and his 40 years at the head of the global HIV research response, Fauci projected that the history will recall him perhaps most notably for his efforts to provide HIV treatment in low-income nations. He doesn't want to retire until the HIV epidemic is over, preferably thanks to a vaccine. Then he would like to pen a memoir as perhaps the only person to advise seven presidents.
Trump Success In Ending Obamacare Would Kill Fauci Plan to Conquer HIV
The Guardian, October 2020
In his State of the Union in February 2019, Donald Trump vowed to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. But if Trump has his way and the Supreme Court strikes down the Affordable Care Act (ACA) the resulting disruption to the healthcare system would end that dream. “The plan is dead in the water if the ACA goes down,” said Nastad's Amy Killelea.
The Guardian, October 2020
In his State of the Union in February 2019, Donald Trump vowed to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. But if Trump has his way and the Supreme Court strikes down the Affordable Care Act (ACA) the resulting disruption to the healthcare system would end that dream. “The plan is dead in the water if the ACA goes down,” said Nastad's Amy Killelea.
"Rick Scott Had Us On Lockdown"
How Florida Said No to $70 Million for HIV Crisis
The Guardian, September 2019
While the Republican senator Rick Scott was governor of Florida his administration presided over the effective blocking of $70 million in federal funds available for fighting the state’s HIV crisis. Coupled with the fact that Scott refused to expand Medicaid in Florida, this new revelation—the product of an extensive investigation—helps explain why the state’s HIV epidemic became almost peerlessly severe during Scott’s time in office.
How Florida Said No to $70 Million for HIV Crisis
The Guardian, September 2019
While the Republican senator Rick Scott was governor of Florida his administration presided over the effective blocking of $70 million in federal funds available for fighting the state’s HIV crisis. Coupled with the fact that Scott refused to expand Medicaid in Florida, this new revelation—the product of an extensive investigation—helps explain why the state’s HIV epidemic became almost peerlessly severe during Scott’s time in office.
25 Years of HIV Research
POZ, July 2019
To mark POZ magazine's 25th anniversary: a review of the extra-ordinary achievements on the part of HIV scientists since 1994. The ever-refined collective mastery they have gained over the virus during this period represents one of the greatest achievements of human ingenuity.
POZ, July 2019
To mark POZ magazine's 25th anniversary: a review of the extra-ordinary achievements on the part of HIV scientists since 1994. The ever-refined collective mastery they have gained over the virus during this period represents one of the greatest achievements of human ingenuity.
The Road Ahead For HIV Cure Research
POZ, January 2019
Today, with better understanding of the complex task at hand, HIV cure researchers are investigating multiple avenues and taking the long view. Along the way, they hope to discover ways of making infection with the virus increasingly innocuous.
POZ, January 2019
Today, with better understanding of the complex task at hand, HIV cure researchers are investigating multiple avenues and taking the long view. Along the way, they hope to discover ways of making infection with the virus increasingly innocuous.
Truvada and the Truth: Is HIV Prevention Propelling the STI Epidemic?
The Guardian, October 2018
Among gay and bisexual men, a rapidly expanding STI epidemic is fueling questions about whether the steadily rising number of people who start Truvada for HIV prevention subsequently change their sexual behavior in ways that increase their risk of contracting chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and, in rarer cases, hepatitis C.
The Guardian, October 2018
Among gay and bisexual men, a rapidly expanding STI epidemic is fueling questions about whether the steadily rising number of people who start Truvada for HIV prevention subsequently change their sexual behavior in ways that increase their risk of contracting chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and, in rarer cases, hepatitis C.
Dying to Entertain Us: Celebrities Keep ODing on Opioids and No One Cares
The Village Voice, July 2018
The overall reaction to the overdoses of Prince, Tom Petty, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Heath Ledger has amounted to nothing much when it comes to awakening Americans to the scope of the opioid crisis. By comparison, Rock Hudson’s 1985 death from AIDS, as well as Magic Johnson’s announcement in 1991 that he had HIV, utterly jolted the national conversation about that epidemic.
The Village Voice, July 2018
The overall reaction to the overdoses of Prince, Tom Petty, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Heath Ledger has amounted to nothing much when it comes to awakening Americans to the scope of the opioid crisis. By comparison, Rock Hudson’s 1985 death from AIDS, as well as Magic Johnson’s announcement in 1991 that he had HIV, utterly jolted the national conversation about that epidemic.
Enough people are taking the HIV-prevention drug to finally lower infection rates in the U.S.
Quartz, June 2018
Six years after the Food and Drug Administration approved a revolutionary HIV prevention pill known as PrEP, public health officials in select U.S. cities have finally begun to conclude that it is likely taking a bite out of local HIV infection rates.
Quartz, June 2018
Six years after the Food and Drug Administration approved a revolutionary HIV prevention pill known as PrEP, public health officials in select U.S. cities have finally begun to conclude that it is likely taking a bite out of local HIV infection rates.
Generation PrEP?
POZ, April 2018
By and large, men who have sex with men who use Truavda as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV are white and over the age of 25. In light of recent HIV diagnosis trends, the lopsidedness of these PrEP uptake numbers reveals the troubling truth lurking behind all the recent fanfare about the HIV prevention method: It is failing to reach many of those who stand to benefit from it the most.
POZ, April 2018
By and large, men who have sex with men who use Truavda as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV are white and over the age of 25. In light of recent HIV diagnosis trends, the lopsidedness of these PrEP uptake numbers reveals the troubling truth lurking behind all the recent fanfare about the HIV prevention method: It is failing to reach many of those who stand to benefit from it the most.
Is Kenneth Cole Shifting Blame for the Harvey Weinstein Charity Controversy?
At stake in amfAR’s civil war is the nonprofit’s quest to find a cure for HIV.
At stake in amfAR’s civil war is the nonprofit’s quest to find a cure for HIV.
POZ magazine, Jan. 21, 2018
Investigative report
They bent the rules for Harvey Weinstein, and now they’re paying the price.
AmfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research has long relied on the now-disgraced Hollywood mogul to supply celebrities, cachet and cash for its fundraising efforts. And now as the nonprofit faces a reckoning born from this dependence, the stakes are particularly high for its famous board chairman: the fashion magnate Kenneth Cole, who has carefully built his eponymous brand around his own image as a philanthropist.
Investigative report
They bent the rules for Harvey Weinstein, and now they’re paying the price.
AmfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research has long relied on the now-disgraced Hollywood mogul to supply celebrities, cachet and cash for its fundraising efforts. And now as the nonprofit faces a reckoning born from this dependence, the stakes are particularly high for its famous board chairman: the fashion magnate Kenneth Cole, who has carefully built his eponymous brand around his own image as a philanthropist.
Kenneth Cole's amfAR chairmanship is over
POZ, February 2018
Fashion icon Kenneth Cole’s longtime tenure as chairman of the board of the HIV nonprofit amfAR has come to a close. He was effectively pushed out of his position by the New York State Attorney General’s Charities Bureau, which had conducted a review of the charity at the request of a faction of trustees.
POZ, February 2018
Fashion icon Kenneth Cole’s longtime tenure as chairman of the board of the HIV nonprofit amfAR has come to a close. He was effectively pushed out of his position by the New York State Attorney General’s Charities Bureau, which had conducted a review of the charity at the request of a faction of trustees.
"Unpacking Michael Weinstein's Latest PrEP Denialism."
(POZ, October 2017)
After something of a lull, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) president Michael Weinstein has revived his ever-the-skeptic public campaign regarding Truvada as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), publishing a critical editorial on the HIV prevention method in the prestigious medical journal AIDS.
(POZ, October 2017)
After something of a lull, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) president Michael Weinstein has revived his ever-the-skeptic public campaign regarding Truvada as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), publishing a critical editorial on the HIV prevention method in the prestigious medical journal AIDS.
"Nevertheless They Persisted"
(POZ, September 2017)
In the face of potential budget cutbacks or continued flat funding, HIV scientists and advocates are waging a powerful war against the global epidemic. The 9th International AIDS Society Conference on HIV Science in Paris saw myriad reasons for hope but also considerable cause for concern about the future of the global fight.
(POZ, September 2017)
In the face of potential budget cutbacks or continued flat funding, HIV scientists and advocates are waging a powerful war against the global epidemic. The 9th International AIDS Society Conference on HIV Science in Paris saw myriad reasons for hope but also considerable cause for concern about the future of the global fight.
"International HIV Conference Reveals Exciting Progress in Global HIV Fight"
(POZ, August 2017)
The fight to combat the global HIV epidemic is charting exciting progress. This includes a rapidly increasing proportion of those living with the virus on treatment as well as falling infection and AIDS-related death rates. But considerable challenges remain.
(POZ, August 2017)
The fight to combat the global HIV epidemic is charting exciting progress. This includes a rapidly increasing proportion of those living with the virus on treatment as well as falling infection and AIDS-related death rates. But considerable challenges remain.
"HIV 2020"
(POZ, June 2017)
The dawning of the 2020s will bring HIV into its fifth decade. Crystal balls are by their nature hazy, and the current political climate raises many worrisome questions about how shifting federal priorities may affect people living with and at risk for HIV. Nevertheless, thanks to recent promising strides in HIV research and public health efforts to tackle the virus from all sides, leaders in the field are increasingly optimistic about what the next decade of the epidemic will look like.
(POZ, June 2017)
The dawning of the 2020s will bring HIV into its fifth decade. Crystal balls are by their nature hazy, and the current political climate raises many worrisome questions about how shifting federal priorities may affect people living with and at risk for HIV. Nevertheless, thanks to recent promising strides in HIV research and public health efforts to tackle the virus from all sides, leaders in the field are increasingly optimistic about what the next decade of the epidemic will look like.
"PrEP: A Dream Deferred."
(POZ, January 2017)
Truvada as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is failing the demographic that needs it most, black men who have sex with men (MSM). Meanwhile, Truvada’s increasing popularity as HIV prevention among white MSM means PrEP is apparently on a path to widen already tragic racial disparities in infection rates among MSM.
Are those who launched PrEP to blame for failing to anticipate its anemic uptake among black MSM?
(POZ, January 2017)
Truvada as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is failing the demographic that needs it most, black men who have sex with men (MSM). Meanwhile, Truvada’s increasing popularity as HIV prevention among white MSM means PrEP is apparently on a path to widen already tragic racial disparities in infection rates among MSM.
Are those who launched PrEP to blame for failing to anticipate its anemic uptake among black MSM?
"Antiretrovirals: A Success Story." (POZ, June 2016)
Celebrating 20 years of effective HIV treatment
In July 1996, infectious disease experts gathered in Vancouver for the 11th International AIDS Conf-erence. These gatherings had become bleak affairs in recent years, as data painted in stark relief the fact that the handful of drugs approved since AZT in 1987 had proved a feeble line of defense against HIV. But data had recently begun to surface suggesting that emerging drugs might allow clinicians the means to finally send the virus into retreat.
Celebrating 20 years of effective HIV treatment
In July 1996, infectious disease experts gathered in Vancouver for the 11th International AIDS Conf-erence. These gatherings had become bleak affairs in recent years, as data painted in stark relief the fact that the handful of drugs approved since AZT in 1987 had proved a feeble line of defense against HIV. But data had recently begun to surface suggesting that emerging drugs might allow clinicians the means to finally send the virus into retreat.
"A Tale of Two Cities."
(POZ, May 2016)
New York City and San Francisco want to end their HIV epidemics.
San Francisco recently launched a multipronged HIV-fighting campaign called “Getting to Zero,” in which the members of local academia, the public health department and community-based organizations, as well as government officials and health care providers, are working in lockstep. Meanwhile, the major players in New York’s epidemic have formed a similar alliance.
(POZ, May 2016)
New York City and San Francisco want to end their HIV epidemics.
San Francisco recently launched a multipronged HIV-fighting campaign called “Getting to Zero,” in which the members of local academia, the public health department and community-based organizations, as well as government officials and health care providers, are working in lockstep. Meanwhile, the major players in New York’s epidemic have formed a similar alliance.
"Is the U.S. HIV Epidemic in Much Better Shape Than We’ve Thought?"
(POZ, May 2016)
Here’s the good news: There may be considerably fewer people living with HIV in the United States, and the HIV population may have a much higher rate of viral suppression than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated. The bad news is that the CDC’s potentially faulty estimates may have thrown off various other presumptions about the state of the U.S. HIV epidemic and what efforts are needed to drive down new infections.
(POZ, May 2016)
Here’s the good news: There may be considerably fewer people living with HIV in the United States, and the HIV population may have a much higher rate of viral suppression than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated. The bad news is that the CDC’s potentially faulty estimates may have thrown off various other presumptions about the state of the U.S. HIV epidemic and what efforts are needed to drive down new infections.
"Is Charlie Sheen Pining After the Wrong Clinical Trial of Long-Acting HIV Meds?"(POZ, March 2016)
During his February appearance on The Dr. Oz Show, Charlie Sheen said his profound dislike of adhering to a daily HIV regimen had piqued his interest in participating in a clinical trial of an investigational treatment called PRO 140, which is a weekly self-injectable monoclonal antibody against the virus. But would he be better off joining a trial of a longer-acting treatment, one dosed only every eight weeks?
During his February appearance on The Dr. Oz Show, Charlie Sheen said his profound dislike of adhering to a daily HIV regimen had piqued his interest in participating in a clinical trial of an investigational treatment called PRO 140, which is a weekly self-injectable monoclonal antibody against the virus. But would he be better off joining a trial of a longer-acting treatment, one dosed only every eight weeks?
"PrEP Fails in Gay Man Adhering to Daily Truvada, He Contracts Drug-Resistant HIV."
(POZ, February 2016)
Researchers have for the first time documented a case of an individual contracting HIV, a multi-drug resistant strain, while apparently adhering well to the daily regimen of Truvada (tenofovir/emtricitabine) as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The scientists concluded that it is indeed possible for individuals who are adherent to PrEP to contract HIV when they are exposed to a virus that is resistant to both drugs included in Truvada. While this case is concerning, experts in the PrEP field suggest that such failures of PrEP will likely remain rare.
(POZ, February 2016)
Researchers have for the first time documented a case of an individual contracting HIV, a multi-drug resistant strain, while apparently adhering well to the daily regimen of Truvada (tenofovir/emtricitabine) as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The scientists concluded that it is indeed possible for individuals who are adherent to PrEP to contract HIV when they are exposed to a virus that is resistant to both drugs included in Truvada. While this case is concerning, experts in the PrEP field suggest that such failures of PrEP will likely remain rare.
"The Cure For HIV Is Not Around the Corner." (POZ, Oct. 2015) Cutting through the hope and the hyperbole.
Erroneous media reports aren't the only cause of the public's misperception that a cure for HIV is "within reach." Even non-profit leaders such as amfAR and Bill Gates have contributed, willfully or not, to this gross distortion of the truth. This article seeks to set the record straight and give readers and accurate sense of where we are in the quest for a cure.
Erroneous media reports aren't the only cause of the public's misperception that a cure for HIV is "within reach." Even non-profit leaders such as amfAR and Bill Gates have contributed, willfully or not, to this gross distortion of the truth. This article seeks to set the record straight and give readers and accurate sense of where we are in the quest for a cure.
"The State of the Epidemic." (POZ, Jan. 2016) Following years of appar-ent stag-nation in the U.S. fight against HIV, recent reports suggest that things are looking up.
“PrEP and Prejudice.” (POZ, Oct. 2014) Can personal choice and public health find common ground in pre-exposure prophylaxis? (NLGJA HIV coverage award winner.)
“The For-Profit HIV Cure Research Crunch.” (POZ, August 2013) How pharma-ceutical and biotech compan-ies are playing a major role in the search for an HIV cure.
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“Is It Time for the End of ‘AIDS’?” POZ, July 2015) Two decades into the anti-retroviral era, the often misused term 'AIDS' has an awkward place in the dialogue about the HIV epidemic.
“Selling the End of AIDS.” (POZ, Oct. 2014) As slogans anticipating an end to the AIDS epidemic gain favor, skep-tics worry that such promises are un-realistically ambitious and will backfire.
“Falling Through the Cracks.” (POZ, March 2013) We can strengthen two of the weakest links in the health care chain for people with HIV by linking people to and retaining them in care.
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“ELISA Turns 30." (POZ, March 2015) Better HIV testing becomes ever more crucial as prevention efforts increase. A look back at the history of the test as well as forward to testing innovations.
“PEPFAR Turns 10: Success at a Crossroads.” (POZ, Dec. 2013) History’s largest international response to a disease hits a major milestone, with cause for celebration and concern.
“Facing the Future of HIV Care.” (POZ, September 2011) How AIDS service organizations and HIV clinics are adapting fiscally to meet a changing health policy landscape.
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Complete HIV Archives
(For additional PrEP-related archives see the PrEP page)
- POZ, May 2016: "Is the U.S. HIV Epidemic in Much Better Shape Than We’ve Thought?" New research suggests that the United States’ dismally low rate of viral suppression may have been quite the underestimate.
- POZ, April 2016: "What Is Chronic Inflammation and Why Is It Such a Big Deal for People With HIV?"
- POZ, March 2016: "CROI Roundup: All the HIV News That’s Fit to Print." A review of all of the big HIV science revelations coming out of the 2016 Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections, including the PrEP failure case.
- POZ, Feb. 2016: "Why Is HIV So Devastating Among Southern Black Women?"
- POZ, Jan. 2016: "The State of the Epidemic."
- POZ, Dec. 2015: "When Can We Expect PrEP 2.0?" What does the future hold for new forms of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV, including long-acting injectables and drugs less toxic than Truvada?
- POZ, Nov. 2015: "'HIV Is Like Diabetes'? Or So They Say." How much sense does the common comparison between HIV and diabetes actually make?
- POZ, Oct. 2015: "Getting to the Heart of the Matter." HIV raises the risk of heart disease. How to lower that risk.
- Sept. 4, 2015: Michelangelo Signorile interviewed me for his SiriusXM satellite radio show, The Gist. We spoke about the new scientific paper about PrEP's apparent success in preventing HIV among a large group of men who have sex with men in San Francisco.
- POZ, Sept. 2015: "PROUD Study Results ‘Strongly Support’ UK PrEP Use in New Paper."
- POZ, Sept. 2015: “The Coinfection Challenge.” New treatment options for people living with HIV and hepatitis C.
- POZ, Sept. 2015: "How People With HIV Can Combat Their Raised Risk of Cancer."
- POZ, Aug. 2015: “AIDS Healthcare Foundation Cedes Ground in Anti-PrEP Fight.”
- POZ, Aug. 2015: “AIDS Conference Bolsters the Use of HIV Meds as Prevention.” An overview of studies presented at the International AIDS Society Conference in Vancouver, British Columbia.
- POZ, July 2015: “AHF Refuses to Correct Misleading Anti-PrEP Ad.”
- POZ, July 2015: “Fact-Checking AIDS Healthcare Foundation's Latest Anti-PrEP Screed.”
- POZ, July 2015: “Is It Time for the End of ‘AIDS’?” Two decades into the antiretroviral era, the often misused term 'AIDS' has an awkward place in the dialogue about the HIV epidemic.
- POZ, June 2015: “A Gut Feeling.” Dealing with the gastrointestinal effects of HIV and its treatment.
- POZ, June 2015: “AIDS Healthcare Foundation Issues Latest Anti-PrEP Salvo.”
- POZ, June 2015: “At Last, Gold-Standard Evidence Backs Early Treatment of HIV.” The hotly anticipated START trial, designed to answer whether starting HIV treatment at a high CD4 count is preferable to delaying, has been halted more than a year early due to powerful evidence supporting early treatment.
- POZ, May 2015: “The Audacity of New York's Hope to End AIDS” Can the Empire State end its epidemic by the end of the decade? And what exactly would it mean to do so?
- POZ, March 2015: “PrEP Is Ready for Primetime.” New research underscores the great potential of Truvada as pre-exposure prophylaxis for preventing HIV among gay and bisexual men.
- POZ, March 2015: “A Near-Failing Science Grade for the Non-Medical HIV Workforce.” Will improving the scientific literacy of non-medical employees in the HIV field help turn the tide in the epidemic?
- POZ, March 2015: “ELISA Turns 30.” Better HIV testing becomes ever more crucial as prevention efforts increase.
- POZ, Feb. 2015: “How Well Do Condoms and PrEP Prevent HIV Among Gay and Bi Men?” CDC researchers have estimated how well condoms and PrEP, used independently or in combination, prevent HIV among gay and bisexual men. How much faith can individuals place in these figures?
- POZ, Jan. 2015: “Burden of Proof.” Is criminalizing HIV ever a good idea?
- POZ, Jan. 2015: “The CDC Dives Into the Great American Circumcision Debate.” Studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa have shown that male circumcision lowers men’s risk of acquiring HIV and other sexually transmitted infections from women. Do those findings belong in U.S. health policy?
- POZ, Dec. 2014: “45% of PrEP Users at SF Clinic Report Using Condoms Less Often.”
- POZ, Dec. 2014: “It’s Time for Tenofovir 2.0.” One of the most important drugs in the HIV arsenal is getting a tune-up.
- POZ, Nov. 2014: “The Treatment Divide: When’s the Best Time to Start HIV Meds?” A debate is raging between activists over whether treating HIV when CD4 cells are high is scientifically sound.
- POZ, Nov. 2014: “Obamacare's Open Enrollment Period Starts November 15.” How people with HIV can find health insurance—or shop for a new plan—during the Affordable Care Act’s open enrollment period, November 15 through February 15, 2015.
- POZ, Oct. 2014: “PrEP and Prejudice.” Can personal choice and public health find common ground in pre-exposure prophylaxis? (This article received the Excellence in HIV/AIDS Coverage Award in the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association's Excellence in Journalism Awards..)
- POZ, Oct. 2014: “Selling the End of AIDS.” As slogans anticipating an end to the AIDS epidemic gain popularity, skeptics worry that such promises are hollow and unrealistically ambitious, and that failure to deliver will ultimately set back efforts to combat HIV.
- POZ, Sept. 2014: "Busting The Myth That Condoms Don’t Protect Gay Men Against STIs.” In the age of using antiretrovirals to prevent HIV transmission, some gay men have started to believe that condoms don’t matter at all, even for sexually transmitted infections.
- POZ, Aug. 2014: “20th International AIDS Conference Research Highlights.” A summary of major presented findings.
- POZ, July 2014: “100% Efficacy for Gays Who Adhered in PrEP Study; Most Didn’t.”
- POZ, July 2014: “What’s Your Long-term Risk of Transmitting HIV?” How mathematical models can help us better understand both the long-term probability of HIV transmission and the benefit of combining risk-reduction strategies.
- POZ, June 2014: “Hepatitis C Transmits Sexually in HIV-Positive Gay Men.” This silent epidemic has largely traveled under the radar, seriously endangering the health of HIV-positive gay men and raising questions about the safety of serosorting.
- POZ, May 2014: “Thanks for Nothing: iPrEX Volunteers Shut Out of PrEP’s Success.” Most foreign volunteers who participated in the clinical trial that first proved Truvada prevents HIV no longer have access to the drug.
- POZ, May 2014: “The Normal Heart: From Stage to Screen.” After starring in the Broadway production of Larry Kramer’s play about the dawning of the AIDS crisis, Joe Mantello joined the cast of the upcoming HBO version as well. Here, he talks with POZ/AIDSmeds about this piece of theatrical history.
- POZ, May 2014: “Media Cooks Up Claim That Soy Sauce Treats, Even Cures HIV.”
- POZ, April 2014: "Hot & Bothered." Stuck between science and politics, sex ed struggles to break free.
- POZ, April 2014: “Jetsons-Era HIV Care and Prevention.” Futuristic highlights from the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) in Boston.
- POZ, March 2014: “Obamacare: Not So Affordable for People With HIV and Hep C.” Getting Obamacare passed and up and running was just the first round in the struggle to bring universal health care to people living with HIV and hepatitis C.
- POZ, Feb. 2014: “The HIV Mental Health Generation Gap.” Are younger people living with the virus worse off than the older ones, contrary to popular belief?
- POZ, Feb. 2014: “THC in Pot Affects Monkey SIV; Half-Baked HIV Reports Follow.”
- POZ, Jan. 2014: “How HIV Instigates Cellular Suicide to Cause AIDS.” A scientific breakthrough sheds major light on a mystery that has perplexed scientists across the decades of the AIDS epidemic.
- POZ, Dec. 2013: “PEPFAR Turns 10: Success at a Crossroads.” As history’s largest international response to a disease hits a major milestone, there is cause both for celebration of great successes and for reflection on the challenges ahead.
- POZ, Dec. 2013: “Sir Elton John Shares the Love for World AIDS Day 2013.” A conversation with POZ.
- Out magazine, Nov. 2013: “Too Close for Comfort.” Why serial monogamy isn't so safe.
- POZ, Nov. 2013: “The Risky Business of HIV Work Abroad.” Safety threats include security hazards from political unrest—and traffic accidents.
- POZ, Oct. 2013: “Cut to Fit.” Major studies support circumcision as prevention in Africa but a small yet vocal group argues the science is flawed. Can circumcision lower U.S. HIV rates?
- POZ, Oct. 2013: “Celebrating the Possibility of a Cure.” October 5 is an occasion to learn about and advocate for HIV cure research.
- POZ, Aug. 2013: “The For-Profit HIV Cure Research Crunch.” How pharmaceutical and biotech companies are playing a major role in the search for an HIV cure.
- POZ, July 2013: “Facing Facts: Dealing With Lipodystrophy.” While newer antiretrovirals have reduced the prevalence of lipodystrophy, a significant proportion of the HIV population still suffers from the disfiguring loss or gain of fat in key areas of their bodies.
- POZ, June 2013: “Long Wait For HIV Diarrhea Drug Inspires Lawsuit.” Even after receiving priority review from the FDA, Fulyzaq, the first drug to treat diarrhea related to HIV meds, has been slow to market. A lawsuit by the biotech firm that developed Fulyzaq accuses its pharma partner of impeding the drug's progress, possibly on purpose.
- POZ, May 2013: “Braving Cognitive Decline: Can People With HIV Fight Back?” As HIV-positive people experience cognitive decline at disproportionate rates, scientists have yet to tease apart precisely how the virus may cause such accelerated aging. But experts in the field argue this is no reason to ignore the issue, considering there are still many ways to improve cognitive outlook.
- POZ, April 2013: “The Case of the Baby ‘Functionally Cured’ of HIV: A Detective Story.” Was the famous baby really functionally cured of HIV, or was this just a case of post-exposure prophylaxis? Was the child infected at all? Is this actually the first cured baby? The skeptics want answers. (The virus rebounded in the child in 2014.)
- POZ, March 2013: “Falling Through the Cracks.” We can strengthen two of the weakest links in the U.S. health care chain for people with HIV/AIDS—linking people to care and retaining them in care—but doing so requires a collective approach.
- POZ, March 2013: “The War on Cancer.” With AIDS-defining illnesses fading increasingly into the wings, a new health challenge for people living with HIV has moved toward center stage.
- POZ, Feb. 2013: “Therapeutic Vaccines: Escaping the 'Viral Escape'” Their future clouded by past failures, therapeutic vaccines find new promise as a potential adjunct to cure therapies. But skeptics doubt if they will ever work.
- POZ, Dec. 2012: “Mixed Messages on Meds and Booze.” Many skip their HIV meds when they drink. This is a mistake.
- HIV Plus, Feb. 2012: “No More Silence.” The stories of Latinas living with HIV.
- POZ, Oct. 2011: “Getting HIV Care Without Getting Deported.” Treatment options and help are available for people with HIV—and without immigration papers.
- POZ, Sept. 2011: “Facing the Future of HIV Care.” How AIDS service organizations are adapting fiscally to meet a changing health policy landscape.
- POZ, April 2011: “It’s in the Mail.” Make sure your drugs get delivered without delay.
- The Advocate, Dec. 2010: “Coping with and HIV Diagnosis.”
- HIV Plus, Nov. 2010: “The Art of AIDS - Poignant Metaphor.”
- HIV Plus, Sept. 2010: “La Vida Latina.” Stories of struggle and triumph among Latinos with HIV.
- HIV Plus, July 2010: “2010 & Beyond.” The future of HIV care and treatment.
- HIV Plus, May 2010: “It’s Just Sex?” Crystal meth’s effect on sex and the spread of HIV.
- HIV Plus, March 2010: “Care Giver.” Profile of a woman living with HIV who puts the needs of her family first, sometimes at the expense of her health.
- HIV Plus, Dec. 2009: “All Grown Up.” Profile of Hydeia Broadbent, who was born with HIV.
- HIV Plus, Dec. 2009: “The Movement Has Its Moves.” Profile of HIV-positive dancer, Zane Booker.
- HIV Plus, July 2009: “Designer Medicine.” HIV gene therapy research.
- HIV Plus, March 2009: “Born Free!” HIV-positive parents having HIV-negative babies.
- HIV Plus, March 2009: “More Than Just Blue.” HIV-positive individuals’ struggles with depression.
- HIV Plus, Jan. 2009: “Is It Murder?” A Canadian case of a man convicted of HIV transmission-related murder.
- HIV Plus, Oct. 2008: “Art for Everyone, Art Forever.” Profile of Visual AIDS, an archive organization devoted to artistic work by HIV-positive individuals.
- HIV Plus, Oct. 2008: “Was HIV Born a Century Ago?”
- HIV Plus, Sept. 2008: “Epidemic Without an Identity.” The HIV epidemic among Latinos.
- Out Traveler, July 2008: "HIV Travel Ban to Loosen?"
- HIV Plus, July 2008: “Listen, Please!” An artistic response to HIV in India.
- HIV Plus, March 2008: “See It! Feel It! Live It!” Profile of an HIV-positive man who strove to get into better physical shape through improved diet and exercise.
- HIV Plus, March 2008: “Speak Up, Women!” Unique challenges faced by women living with HIV.
- HIV Plus, Aug. 2007: “Viva Las Voces!” Profiles of Latinos living with HIV.
- HIV Plus, July 2007: “Bond of Brothers.” One man’s project to tell the stories of fellow black men living with HIV.
- HIV Plus, April 2007: “Prison Break.” A non-profit’s efforts to work with correctional institutions to combat HIV and care for those living with the virus who are incarcerated.
- HIV Plus, Feb. 2007: “Women With Cameras.” A profile of an art-therapy group for women living with HIV.
- HIV Plus, Feb. 2007: “New Life Awakening.” A profile of an HIV-positive recovering addict’s endeavors to heal his body and spirit through yoga.
- HIV Plus, Dec. 2006: “An Ounce of Prevention.” Preventing non-AIDS-defining health problems.
- Gay.com, Aug. 2006: "The once-a-day HIV pill, Rejoice, but with caution."_
- Gay.com, June 2006: "Black men and the AIDS epidemic."
- Gay.com, June 2006: "An eyewitness expert recalls the early days of AIDS."
- Gay.com, Dec. .2005: "Is AIDS Activism Dead?"
- HIV Plus, May 2006: “What’s Gone Wrong?” Why are HIV rates so high among black men who have sex with men?
- Gay.com, Jan. 2006: “Christine Maggiore: AIDS Naysayer.” (Gay.com, January 2006) Maggiore was one of the most influential HIV denialists. After her toddler-age daughter died of AIDS-related causes in 2005, she argued that the cause of death was really an allergic reaction to antibiotics. Thinking the full transcript of the Gay.com interview would prove exculpatory, Maggiore had the text published on a web site devoted to clearing her name with regards to her daughter's death.
- HIV Plus, Oct. 2005: “Shelter Me.” Providing services for homeless people with HIV.
- Gay.com, Oct. 2005: "HIV Home Testing: Is There Such a Thing as Too Private?"
- HIV Plus, Aug. 2005: “Whole Health.” Insurance options for people living with HIV.
- HIV Plus, July 2005: “Survivor.” A profile of Nelson Vergel, long-term survivor of HIV, shines a spotlight on the plight of those with few HIV treatment options.
- HIV Plus, July 2005: “The Good Fight.” Fighting resistance to HIV medications.
- HIV Plus, April 2005: “Winning the Crazy Numbers Game.” The fight to score good HV-related lab test numbers.
- HIV Plus, March 2005: “One Man’s Mission.” Profile of Tom Donahue, a young HIV-positive man who seeks to educate fellow young people about the virus.
- HIV Plus, Dec. 2004: “Rx for Success.” Tips on having a successful visit to the doctor.
- HIV Plus, Nov. 2004: “About Face.” Treating lipodystrophy and lipoatrophy, disfiguring side effects of some HIV meds.
- HIV Plus, Oct. 2004: “HIV Unplugged.” HIV-related storylines on TV.
- HIV Plus, Aug. 2004: “Sticking Point.” The plight of needle-exchange programs.
- HIV Plus, Aug. 2004: “Coming Home.” Programs helping HIV-positive inmates adjust to life on the outside.
- HIV Plus, Feb. 2004: “Help With Hep C?” Efforts to combat hepatitis C pale in comparison to those fighting HIV.
- HIV Plus, Oct. 2003: “Size Does Matter.” The Bill & Medina Gates Foundation’s efforts to combat global HIV.
- HIV Plus, Aug. 2003: “ADAPtive Thinking.” How to solve the troubled finances of the AIDS Drug Assistance Program.
- The New York Observer, April 2003: “Upper West Side Greenlights Needle Exchange for S.R.O.’s.” Using harm reduction methods among injection drug users in the NYC system of using SRO hotels for emergency homeless housing.
- POZ, Sept. 2002: "Getting Snippy." Does circumcision reduce the risk of HIV?
- POZ, Sept. 2002: "What's Life Worth?" Are priorities at the Global Fund out of whack?
- Numedx, July 2002: "The 21 Years War." A presidential history of the HIV epidemic.
- POZ, April 2003: "We Got You Covered."
- POZ, Dec. 2002: "Getting Cheeky."
- POZ, June 2002: "Party Politics." AIDS politics starts to get ugly under the nascent Bush administration.
- POZ, Feb. 2002: "Love is the Drug."
- POZ, Jan. 2002: "Sex Pistols." The Bush admin. sends chill across HIV prevention groups that receive federal funding.
- Columbia Spectator, Nov. 1999: "A Glimpse Inside the Life of an HIV-Positive Columbian."