HIV remission advances through stem cell transplants amid global funding concerns

At the 26th International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro, researchers presented new cases of HIV remission following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplants. These transplants, performed to treat hematological malignancies, utilized donors with a specific genetic mutation (CCR5-delta32) that provides resistance to the virus. To date, 13 patients have been recorded as having no detectable virus in their blood following such procedures, with some maintaining remission for over six years after discontinuing antiretroviral therapy.

However, UNAIDS has issued a warning regarding a potential resurgence of the epidemic due to declining international funding and cuts to prevention services. Global data indicates new infections have increased in three regions and 21 countries. Approximately 9 million people living with HIV are not receiving treatment, and 570,000 people died from AIDS-related illnesses.

In Argentina, significant budget cuts have impacted health programs. Leandro Cahn, Executive Director of the Huésped Foundation, noted that reductions in funding specifically affect programs for HIV, tuberculosis, and viral hepatitis, raising concerns about patient stability and access to essential treatments.