A groundbreaking HIV prevention treatment, a twice-yearly injection called lenacapavir, has been hailed as a major advancement in medicine. While the drug has shown up to 96% effectiveness in preventing HIV, experts caution that ensuring access to those who need it most remains a critical challenge.

Lenacapavir’s Impact and Potential

Lenacapavir, which is already approved for treating HIV, has proven to be more effective than daily PrEP pills in preventing HIV transmission. The injection has shown particularly high effectiveness in studies of both men and women, marking a significant leap forward in HIV prevention. Experts believe this method could be a game-changer for high-risk groups, such as sex workers and young women, providing protection with just two doses a year.

Access Barriers and Concerns for Latin America

While Gilead, the maker of lenacapavir, has made the drug available at affordable rates in 120 countries with high HIV rates, Latin American nations have been excluded from this deal. With HIV rates on the rise in the region, activists argue that withholding access to lenacapavir in countries like Brazil and Mexico is a missed opportunity to curb the epidemic. The focus now shifts to overcoming these access challenges to ensure the benefits of this new treatment reach those who need it the most.