"Five people have gone into remission thanks to advancements in medicine — and a sixth patient may also now be free of HIV.
One of the biggest breakthroughs in HIV/AIDS prevention in recent years is the widespread use of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).
This drug therapy, approved by the Federal Drug Administration in 2012, has been a key player in preventing HIV transmission through sex or injection drug use. Antiretroviral drugs, such as PrEP, also slow the replication of the virus and prevent it from progressing to AIDS.
Although PrEP has become a more accessible treatment for the virus, scientists have been hurriedly working towards cures for HIV for decades — and we’re finally seeing some results.
In February of this year, scientists in Germany confirmed a fifth-ever patient had been cured of HIV after receiving stem cell transplants that include genetic mutations that carry a resistance to HIV.
But it looks like a sixth patient may soon be able to join this very exclusive club.
The man, referred to as the “Geneva patient,” underwent a stem cell transplant after cancer treatment, though these cells did not include the HIV-resistant genetic mutation.
Still, he went off antiretroviral therapy for HIV in November 2021, and his viral load remains undetectable.
Instead, doctors are researching whether a drug called ruxolitinib may be partially responsible for his recovery.
Ruxolitinib decreases inflammation associated with HIV by blocking two proteins, JAK1 and JAK2. This helps kill off “reservoir cells” that lay dormant in the body and have a potential to cause rebounds in patients with HIV.
Experts say the AIDS crisis can end by 2030 across the globe — as long as leaders prioritize this goal.
A new report from UNAIDS shows a clear, optimistic path to ending the AIDS crisis. (This looks like a 90% reduction in cases by 2030.)
The organization’s report includes data and case studies that show that ending AIDS is a political and financial choice — and that governments that have prioritized a path towards progress are seeing extraordinary results.
By following the data, science, and evidence; tackling inequality; and ensuring sufficient and sustainable funding across communities, the global community could wipe out the AIDS pandemic by the end of the decade.
The report demonstrates that progress has been strongest in the countries and regions that have the most financial investments, like eastern and southern Africa, where new HIV infections have been reduced by 57% since 2010.
Investments in treatments, education, and access to care have also led to a 58% reduction in new HIV infections among children from 2010 to 2022 — the lowest number since the 1980’s.
Plus, the number of people on antiretroviral treatment around the globe has risen from 7.7 million in 2010 to 29.8 million in 2022.
The moral of the story? This goal can be achieved, if world leaders put their minds — and wallets — to it.
A region in Australia might be the first place in the world to reach the United Nations targets for ending HIV transmission.
Researchers believe that the central district of Sydney, Australia is close to becoming the first locality in the world to reach the UN’s target for ending transmission of HIV.
Specifically, new infections among gay men have fallen by 88% between 2010 and 2022. In fact, there were only 11 new HIV cases recorded in central Sydney last year, and almost all HIV-positive Australians are on antiretroviral drugs.
... "These numbers show us that virtual elimination of HIV transmissions is possible. Now, we need to look closely at what has worked in Sydney, and adapt it for other cities and regions across Australia.”
Namibia is ahead of schedule in UN targets to end HIV/AIDS.
Although the virus is still the leading cause of death in Namibia, the country is well on track to hit 95-95-95 UNAIDS targets before its 2030 deadline.
In Namibia, 92% of people know their HIV status, 99% of people living with HIV are on treatment, and 94% of people living with HIV who are on treatment are virally suppressed.
In addition to these exciting statistics, new infections have plummeted. The estimated rate of new HIV infections in Namibia is five times lower than it was in 2002, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.
These encouraging numbers are thanks to the investment and strategic response of PEPFAR, but also to the willingness of local governmental agencies and organizations to adhere to the UN’s Fast-Track approach.
Breakthroughs are being made in HIV vaccine therapies.
Long before we were all asking each other “Pfizer or Moderna?” about our COVID-19 vaccines, scientists have been researching the potential of mRNA vaccines in treating some of the world’s deadliest diseases — like HIV.
And with the success of our mainstream mRNA vaccines, an HIV inoculation remains a goal for researchers across the globe.
Last year, the National Institutes of Health launched a clinical trial of three mRNA vaccines for HIV, and similar studies are being conducted in Rwanda and South Africa, as well.
CAR T-cell clinical trials are underway to potentially cure HIV.
This spring, UC Davis Health researchers have dosed the second participant in their clinical trial, which poses the use of CAR T-cell therapy as a potential cure for HIV.
The study involves taking a participant’s own white blood cells (called T-cells), and modifying them so they can identify and target HIV cells, ultimately controlling the virus without medication.
The first participant in the study was dosed with anti-HIV T-cells last August, and the trial is the first of its kind to utilize this technology to potentially treat HIV.
Of course, the trials have a long way to go, and the lab is still preparing to dose a third participant for the study, but CAR T-cell treatments have been successful for lupus and forms of cancer in the past...
“So far, there have been no adverse events observed that were related to the treatment, and the two participants are doing fine.”
Guidance on how to reduce stigma and discrimination due to HIV/AIDS is reaching people around the globe.
While the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS has significantly decreased — especially towards the LGBTQ+ community — with advancements in treatment and prevention, discrimination is certainly not gone.
While most people now understand HIV/AIDS better than they did decades ago, those most impacted by the virus (like gay men and low-income women and children) still face ongoing barriers to care and economic security.
It is vital to maintain awareness and education interventions.
After all, experts suggest that eliminating discrimination and stigma are key factors in reducing disease. And not eliminating stigma impedes HIV services, argues UNAIDS, “limiting access to and acceptance of prevention services, engagement in care, and adherence to antiretroviral therapy.”
Luckily, UNAIDS provides guidance on how to reduce stigma and discrimination in the community, workplace, education, health care, justice, and emergency settings.
The goal is to, of course, decrease stigma in order to decrease disease, but also to provide folks with the culturally significant support they need to live safe, integrated lives — with or without disease.
For instance, a 2022 study conducted in Northern Uganda showed that local cultural knowledge passed through Elders was a successful intervention in reducing HIV-related stigma among young people.
“Research in school settings has shown that the use of local cultural stories, songs, myths, riddles, and proverbs increases resilient coping responses among students and strengthens positive and socially accepted morals and values,” the study’s discussion reads.
So, while an uptick in acceptance gives us hope, it also gives us a directive: Keep telling the accurate, full, and human stories behind HIV/AIDS, and we’ll all be better for it. "
-via GoodGoodGood, August 3, 2023
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Effective communication is critical strategy in infection control: Apollo Hospital
In the realm of healthcare, where every decision and action can impact patient outcomes, effective communication emerges as a cornerstone of infection control strategies. Within the bustling corridors of Apollo Hospital, renowned for its commitment to patient care and safety, the integration of robust communication practices plays a pivotal role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and maintaining high standards of infection prevention and control.
Telehealth Services: Bridging Gaps, Enhancing Communication
As the world embraces digital transformation, Apollo Hospital leverages telehealth services to extend its reach beyond physical boundaries. Through teleconsultations and virtual appointments, patients can access healthcare expertise from the comfort of their homes, minimizing the risk of exposure to infectious agents in crowded healthcare settings. Effective communication channels, such as secure messaging platforms and video conferencing tools, facilitate seamless interactions between patients and healthcare providers, enabling the delivery of timely advice, treatment recommendations, and follow-up care while adhering to stringent infection control protocols.
Infection Prevention and Control: A Comprehensive Approach
At Apollo Hospital, infection prevention and control are woven into the fabric of daily operations, guided by a comprehensive infection control program. From rigorous hand hygiene protocols to meticulous environmental cleaning practices, every aspect of patient care is designed to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Effective communication plays a central role in disseminating infection control guidelines, reinforcing best practices, and ensuring compliance among healthcare staff. Regular training sessions, educational materials, and real-time feedback mechanisms foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, strengthening the hospital's defense against infectious diseases.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Uniting Forces for Patient Safety
Infection control in hospitals is a team effort that transcends departmental boundaries. At Apollo Hospital, interdisciplinary collaboration lies at the heart of infection control initiatives, bringing together clinicians, infection preventionists, environmental services personnel, and administrative staff in a concerted effort to safeguard patient safety. Effective communication channels facilitate the exchange of vital information, such as outbreak alerts, infection trends, and emerging threats, enabling proactive interventions and coordinated response strategies. Through regular meetings, case discussions, and quality improvement initiatives, diverse healthcare professionals share insights, identify areas for improvement, and collectively strive towards the common goal of reducing the burden of infectious diseases within the hospital environment.
Empowering Patients: Partnering in Infection Control
In the pursuit of infection control excellence, Apollo Hospital recognizes the pivotal role of patient engagement and empowerment. Through clear and transparent communication, patients are empowered to actively participate in their own care journey, making informed decisions that contribute to infection prevention efforts. Educational materials, interactive workshops, and personalized counseling sessions equip patients with the knowledge and skills to practice infection control measures both within the hospital and in their everyday lives. By fostering a culture of shared responsibility and mutual respect, Apollo Hospital cultivates meaningful partnerships with patients, enhancing the effectiveness of infection control interventions and promoting positive health outcomes.
Looking Ahead: Innovating for Tomorrow's Challenges
As the landscape of infectious diseases continues to evolve, Apollo Hospital remains steadfast in its commitment to effective communication as a critical strategy in infection control. By embracing telehealth solutions, strengthening infection prevention measures, nurturing interdisciplinary collaboration, and empowering patients, Apollo Hospital stands at the forefront of infectious disease control, setting a precedent for excellence in healthcare delivery. With unwavering dedication and forward-thinking innovation, Apollo Hospital paves the way towards a safer, healthier future for all.
In conclusion, effective communication is not merely a strategy but a guiding principle in infection control at Apollo Hospital. Through the seamless integration of telehealth services, comprehensive infection prevention measures, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient empowerment initiatives, Apollo Hospital exemplifies the transformative power of communication in safeguarding patient safety and advancing the frontiers of healthcare excellence.
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Suction Catheters Market Forecast: A Holistic Approach to Market Trends
The global suction catheters market size is expected to reach USD 844.1 million by 2030, based on a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2022 to 2030. Suction catheters help in clearing the respiratory tract of ventilator-dependent patients or patients suffering from respiratory disorders. The rise in the number of people suffering from chronic respiratory illness is proliferating the demand for suction catheters. For instance, as per the Irish Thoracic Society, in 2016, there were 643,580 inpatient hospitalizations in Ireland. Out of which, 32% of inpatients were older than 65 years and over. Respiratory diseases accounted for 19.1% of inpatient hospitalizations in Ireland.
Suction Catheters Market Report Highlights
Based on type, the closed suction catheter segment dominated the market in terms of revenue share in 2021. Further, the closed suction catheter segment is expected to witness the fastest growth rate of 8.8% over the forecast period, owing to a rise in cases of cross-contamination
Based on material, the latex-free segment dominated the market with a share of 69.7% in 2021, owing to the increased use of silicon-based catheters by healthcare professionals. Further, the latex-free segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of over 8.8% during the forecast period
Based on end use, the hospital segment held the majority of the market share in terms of revenue in 2021. On the other hand, the ambulatory care centers segment is expected to witness the fastest growth of 10.9% during the forecast period
In 2021, North America dominated the market with a share of around 45% owing to the rising prevalence of various types of chronic diseases and the growing demand for respiratory devices. The Asia Pacific suction catheters market is expected to expand at the fastest rate of 8.6% during the forecast period. The growth can be attributed to the rise in the aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases
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The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of respiratory medical devices owing to the rise in the number of ventilator-supported patients during the pandemic. In addition, factors such as rising cases of chronic diseases, and an increase in pollution levels are also contributing to heightened demand for suction catheters. In March 2020, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), granted emergency approval for Vesper, a device developed by Prisma Health that supports patients on ventilators.
In addition, during the pandemic, several governments across the globe and healthcare companies were improving medical treatment to treat patients suffering from Covid-19 patients. This in turn increased the use of catheters in emergency clinics and hospitals during the pandemic thereby positively impacting the demand for suction catheters. The rise in investments by the government and players to improve the healthcare industry is also boosting the demand for suction catheters. For instance, as per UK Government, close to 10,000 ventilators were added to the stock. Additionally, Rolls Royce, Ford, and Honda in the UK started manufacturing ventilators to cope with the increasing demand due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
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