African program needs $233 million, WHO says.(Brief Article)

2002 JUL 24 - (NewsRx.com & NewsRx.net) -- African scientists, multilateral and donor organizations, research agencies and industry met in Cape Town in June 2002, to accelerate research and testing for the development of an AIDS vaccine for Africa. The meeting aimed to define a plan of action for the next 7 years, and to raise US$233 million for the African AIDS Vaccine Programme (AAVP).

Two-thirds of all people living with HIV are in Africa. African vaccine research currently receives only $41 million of the $2.5 billion - that is, 1.6% - spent on HIV research annually.

Although more than 30 HIV vaccine trials have been conducted globally since 1987, only two of these were carried out in Africa. Some HIV strains present in Africa are different from those present in other parts of the world and current vaccines tested in Asia or the U.S. may not be appropriate for Africans.

"A vaccine for Africa would be the best long-term preventive measure against AIDS," explained Peter Piot, executive director of UNAIDS. "Enormous efforts should go into this initiative, which could help address the health and development tragedy that AIDS has become for many African countries."

Part of the strategy of AAVP is the active participation of African scientists and institutions. One of the major obstacles for HIV vaccine research on the continent is the inadequacy of research infrastructures. Some of the $233 million required will contribute to building up regional facilities and strengthening local expertise.

"Considering that the average cost of developing a new prescription drug in the United States is $800 million, $233 million to save many lives seems a very inexpensive price tag," said Yasuhiro Suzuki, executive director for health technology and pharmaceuticals at WHO.

Political support for and ...