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| 8. Support for HIV Science and Research Since the beginning of the HIV epidemic over twenty years ago, the United States has been a leader in support for HIV related science and research. Scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other federally funded research sites have been responsible for countless lifesaving breakthroughs that have enabled people living with HIV to live longer, healthier, and more satisfying lives. In addition, HIV research has led to breakthroughs in the care and treatment of other life-threatening medical conditions. Unfortunately, as knowledge about the HIV virus has grown, so has the need for further study. Today, there are 26 anti-retroviral drugs approved for the treatment of HIV by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); however, the growing challenges of drug resistance and debilitating side effects have meant that people living with HIV are severely limited in their choice of medications. Therefore it is critical that researchers continue to develop new treatment options. Increased understanding about the nature of the virus has also led to a growing understanding of the importance of preventing HIV infection. HIV vaccine research and clinical trials have not yet led to the development of a vaccine, but they have increased the HIV knowledge base and must therefore continue. Research into the development and use of a possible microbicide is vital in an era where half of all new infections are occurring in women, while behavioral research is helping scientists to develop interventions that will better equip individuals to avoid infection. In order to be most effective, clinical trials (for vaccines, microbicides, and new treatments and therapies) must include a representative sample of those who are currently most impacted by HIV, including women and people of color. Finally, HIV related research must be based in sound science—and its objectivity must be protected from political ideology. AIDS Action will work with its members, Congress, the administration, coalition partners, and the private sector to support the continuation and expansion of sound HIV science and research. [back to introduction] |