20 years since human immunodeficiency virus discovery: considerations for the next decade.
The year 2003 marks the 20th anniversary of the discovery of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Among infectious disease-causing agents, HIV-1 is now the number one killer worldwide. Approximately 70% of the cases in the world are in sub-Saharan Africa, where in some regions, the seroprevalence of HIV-1 among adults exceeds 25%. Its high seroprevalence in some countries has raised concern that acquired immunodeficiency syndrome may create a threat to world peace. Despite developments in molecular biology, virology, immunology, and pharmacology, control of HIV-1 still awaits effective vaccines and microbicides. Because significant technologic advances still are needed to overcome the obstacles posed by HIV-1, we must find ways to expand and expedite proven prevention strategies and provide access to HIV-1 treatment for infected individuals throughout the world. Without doing so, the worst of this global pandemic will occur in the next decade before effective vaccines and microbicides are available.
Idemyor
Vincent
V
Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Advocate Bethany Hospital, and University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
D016915:AIDS Vaccines; D019380:Anti-HIV Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D015497:HIV-1 / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000378:metabolism / Q000472:pathogenicity; D006801:Humans; D008967:Molecular Biology / Q000639:trends*; D016036:Seroepidemiologic Studies
D016915:AIDS Vaccines; D019380:Anti-HIV Agents