The International Community of Women Living with HIV Eastern Africa (ICWEA) celebrates Gilead’s recent announcement regarding the twice-yearly Lenacapavir (LEN), which has demonstrated 100% efficacy and superiority over daily Truvada in preventing HIV. This milestone introduces a transformative option in HIV prevention, particularly for women and girls at heightened risk.
According to UNAIDS, Eastern and Southern Africa remain the regions most heavily affected by the HIV epidemic, with women and girls bearing a significant portion of the burden. In 2022, these regions accounted for more than half of the global total of new HIV infections, with young women aged 15-24 being three times more likely to acquire HIV than young men in the same age group. Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) are particularly vulnerable due to a combination of biological, social, and economic factors, including gender inequality, poverty, and limited access to education and healthcare.
Despite significant progress in reducing HIV transmission globally, AGYW in Africa continue to face high rates of new infections. Efforts to curb these rates must focus on providing comprehensive prevention options that are effective, accessible, and suitable for diverse needs and lifestyles.
LEN’s efficacy in the PURPOSE 1 trial represents a critical advancement in this context. The twice-yearly injectable offers a powerful new option for HIV prevention, reducing the need for daily adherence associated with oral regimens. This ease of use is particularly beneficial in settings where daily medication can be a significant barrier due to stigma, forgetfulness, or lack of consistent access.
“This is more good news for the prevention agenda. There will be no reason for not having these products freely available and cost-effective to people who need them,” said Lillian Mworeko, Executive Director, ICWEA & Global Community Advisory Group (GCAG) member at PURPOSE 1 study.
ICWEA has been a staunch advocate for expanding CHOICE in HIV prevention and treatment. On 8th September 2023, ICWEA, together with The African Women’s HIV Prevention Community Accountability Board (AWCAB), launched the HIV Prevention Choice Manifesto for Women and Girls in Africa, reaffirming our commitment to advocating for more available choices for women and girls in the region. This initiative is crucial, as the results of the LEN trial demonstrate the urgent need to expand prevention options and empower women and girls in the fight against HIV. The availability of diverse prevention methods empowers women and girls to select the most appropriate option for their lives. LEN’s introduction into the array of prevention tools enhances these choices, offering a discreet and long-acting alternative that can help overcome many of the barriers to HIV prevention.
The success of LEN is not only a leap towards achieving our goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 but also a step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of the HIV response. As we strive to meet the 2030 targets, it is essential to look beyond and establish robust systems that will continue to prevent new infections and support those living with HIV. Sustained innovation, equitable access, and comprehensive support are key to maintaining the progress we achieve.“As a young woman, I am so excited about this great news. HIV spread will definitely reduce among AGYW,” said Brenda Facy Azizuyo, HIV Prevention Advocate.
ICWEA remains committed to driving the HIV prevention agenda forward, advocating for health equity, and championing the empowerment of women and girls. As we embrace the potential of LEN, we reinforce our dedication to a future where HIV is no longer a threat to our communities.
Together, through persistent effort, collaboration, and innovation, we can ensure a world where the shadow of HIV is lifted, bringing health, hope, and a brighter future for all.
References:
UNAIDS. (2022). “UNAIDS Data 2022.”
UNAIDS. (2022). “Global HIV & AIDS statistics — Fact sheet.”
