Economist Podcasts A better pill to swallow: the bid to end AIDS
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Sep 28, 2023 The discussion kicks off with a focus on the strides made in reducing HIV and AIDS deaths due to improved medication access in sub-Saharan Africa. Personal stories from South Africa highlight the stigma and barriers faced by those living with HIV. The financial challenges of developing new treatments reveal the importance of drug price negotiations. Meanwhile, Japan's adult industry is examined under new regulations and China's use of UNESCO to reshape historical narratives adds a layer of cultural complexity.
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Late HIV Diagnosis
- Ronnie, a 60-year-old South African man, discovered his HIV-positive status after collapsing.
- He avoided testing due to a reluctance to appear weak and not wanting to make a fuss.
HIV Treatment Progress and Challenges
- Effective HIV drugs exist and have averted millions of deaths.
- Despite this, the disease continues to spread due to late diagnosis and lack of treatment among infected individuals.
PrEP and its Target Demographics
- PrEP, a preventative drug, reduces HIV infection risk by 99%.
- It's primarily given to high-risk groups in wealthy nations and young women in sub-Saharan Africa.