Campaigners and experts from all over the world have come together to demand that a breakthrough HIV intervention, hailed as “the closest thing to an HIV vaccine”, must be made available to all who need it as soon and as cheaply as possible. The manufacturer of this intervention, known as Cabotegravir, has been facing widespread criticism and protests over its exorbitant pricing.
At the 25th International AIDS Conference (AIDS2024), held recently in San Francisco, activists took to the streets in a massive protest to demand the availability of Cabotegravir at an affordable price. The protest, led by various organizations and individuals fighting for the cause of HIV/AIDS, was a powerful display of unity and determination in the face of this crucial issue.
Cabotegravir has been described as a game-changing intervention in the fight against HIV. It is a long-acting injectable drug that has shown great promise in clinical trials. It is being hailed as the “closest thing to an HIV vaccine” due to its ability to provide long-lasting protection against the virus. It works by preventing the virus from replicating in the body, thereby significantly reducing the risk of transmission.
However, even with its immense potential, Cabotegravir has hit a roadblock due to its high price. The manufacturer, ViiV Healthcare, has priced the drug at a staggering $4,500 for a single dose. This means that a standard course of treatment would cost around $18,000 per year, making it unaffordable for most people, especially in low- and middle-income countries where the HIV epidemic is most prevalent.
Furthermore, the pricing of Cabotegravir has sparked outrage among activists and experts who believe that the drug must be made accessible to all, regardless of their financial status. The exorbitant pricing has also been termed as a major barrier to achieving the UNAIDS target of ending AIDS by 2030. It is estimated that only 38% of people living with HIV worldwide are on treatment currently, and with Cabotegravir being out of reach for most, this number is expected to decline even further.
In an open letter addressed to ViiV Healthcare, activists and experts have called for a drastic reduction in the price of Cabotegravir. They have stressed the importance of making the drug affordable and accessible to all those who may benefit from it, and have urged the manufacturer to prioritize public health over profits. The letter has been signed by over 80 organizations and individuals, including prominent figures in the field of HIV/AIDS research and activism.
The high pricing of Cabotegravir has also led to concerns about the sustainability of HIV treatment programs, especially in resource-limited settings. Many fear that the pricing of this drug will put an additional burden on the already strained healthcare systems in these countries. Experts have emphasized the need for innovative pricing schemes and collaborations to ensure that Cabotegravir reaches those who need it the most.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the protest at AIDS2024 was the presence of people living with HIV who were ready to share their stories and raise their voices for access to Cabotegravir. This served as a powerful reminder that the fight against HIV/AIDS requires the active participation of those who are most affected by it. Their voices and experiences must be heard, and their well-being must be prioritized when making decisions about drug access and pricing.
In conclusion, the demand for affordable and accessible Cabotegravir is not just a monetary issue; it is a matter of public health and social justice. The widespread protests and calls for action at AIDS2024 have highlighted the urgent need for a fair and equitable pricing of this groundbreaking intervention. It is time for all stakeholders, including the manufacturer, governments, and international organizations, to come together and find a solution that will bring us closer to achieving the goal of an AIDS-free world. The health and well-being of millions of people living with HIV depend on it.
