|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||
| 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 | |
|
||||
 |
Purpose of This Module
Lack of Treatment Options in the Developing WorldSome treatment options are available for both combating the virus and preventing or treating HIV-related infections, and these treatments may involve a combination of several drugs. However, treatments—in particular, antiretroviral drugs—are generally not available in developing countries. In addition, treatments can be quite costly, may have significant side effects, and must be used in fairly complex regimens. While the annual health budget per person in most Sub-Saharan African countries is less than US$10, triple antiretroviral therapy against AIDS in the developed world can cost as much as US$12,000-$14,000 per client per year. In mid-2001, the prices of a number of antiretrovirals decreased dramatically in some developing countries. Price reductions have been achieved through advocacy, pressure from activists and civil society, and competition from generic drug manufacturers, as well as the advent of discounted prices from pharmaceutical companies for use in developing countries. Even with recent dramatic price reductions, when compared with drugs for STIs or tuberculosis, for example, these antiretrovirals are still out of reach for most people who need them. For example, the current prices offered in developing countries to treat one person for a year are still higher than the annual per capita income of many of the most affected countries.
|
Currently,
there is no cure or vaccine for HIV infection or AIDS. As the number of
people living with HIV/AIDS continues to increase worldwide, strategies
to control the epidemic need to incorporate a spectrum of services that
include counseling, clinical care, and community and social support. This
section gives an overview of treatment and management options currently
available to people living with HIV/AIDS.