11/20/2008

Contact: Robert Yule
202-448-8456
ryule@pedaids.org

Statement of Nicholas Hellmann, M.D., Executive Vice President of Medical and Scientific Affairs

Washington, D.C.—A landmark study published today in the New England Journal of Medicine confirms the urgent need to identify HIV-positive infants early, and to begin administering lifesaving treatment soon after birth. This study substantiates preliminary data released in July 2007 that led the World Health Organization, the U.S., and several European countries to revise their guidelines on pediatric treatment and recommend infants begin taking antiretroviral drugs earlier.

The study, conducted by the Comprehensive International Programme of Research on AIDS in South Africa (CIPRA-SA) and sponsored by the U.S. National Institutes of Health, demonstrated that providing newborns with antiretroviral treatment soon after diagnosis cut the rate of death by 76 percent. This is compared to the prior standard practice of delaying the start of treatment until the onset of HIV-related symptoms or very low levels of immune system cells, called CD4 T-cells. The study also showed that early initiation of antiretroviral treatment dramatically reduces the emergence of serious HIV-related illnesses. These findings reinforce our call for increased global leadership and a commitment of resources for early infant diagnosis and treatment. By starting antiretroviral treatment early, children not only survive, but can live vital and productive lives.

We must also increase our efforts to prevent HIV infections in the first place by dramatically scaling up access to services for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. PMTCT is a highly effective prevention method, but still only one out of three HIV-positive, pregnant women worldwide receives the medicines she needs to safeguard her child from HIV. PMTCT also provides a key entry point into the health care system for mother-infant pairs, where they can receive follow-up testing and lifesaving treatment if they are HIV-positive.

The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation is working in 18 countries and at more than 3,200 sites to increase access to PMTCT and pediatric treatment. Foundation-supported programs account for more than one-quarter of pregnant women globally who receive PMTCT drugs, and the Foundation is a major worldwide provider of care and treatment to HIV-infected infants and children. This study will continue to inform our work as we strive toward our mission of a generation free of HIV.

###

About the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation
The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation is a worldwide leader in the fight against pediatric AIDS. Its innovative research programs, collaborative training initiatives, advocacy efforts, and rapidly expanding international prevention and treatment programs are bringing dramatic changes to the lives of children worldwide.