HIV remains a major global health challenge, but significant progress has been made in its management. Thanks to groundbreaking research, HIV has been transformed from a death sentence to a chronic condition that can be effectively controlled with antiretroviral therapy. People living with HIV now have the opportunity for long and healthy lives, while the risk of transmission has significantly reduced.
Efforts to prevent new HIV infections have also advanced, with expanded testing and prevention initiatives targeting key populations and vulnerable communities. Despite these achievements, barriers like limited treatment access, persistent stigma, and discrimination hinder many from seeking essential testing, treatment, and support, perpetuating misconceptions about the virus. As the population with HIV ages, a new set of healthcare challenges emerges. With longer life expectancies, new models of care are needed to address distinctive health challenges faced by this ageing population.
Professor Vera will share insights from his research on HIV prevention, ageing, brain health, and therapeutics to illustrate the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in HIV research, and discuss actions that might be needed to eliminate HIV while improving the quality of life of those living with HIV.