GSK aim for HIV cure by 2030

[Loa111]

GSK aim for HIV cure by 2030
https://www.pharmatimes.com/news/gsk_aim_for_hiv_cure_by_2030_1384679

I came across this news release from 30 Nov 2021 by chance (You can bin this post Jim if this has been reported before in here).

Interesting, however I never feel optimistic or hopeful when I read these news updates on cures. I won't complain if it happens though, but probably not in my lifetime.

I'd be much more joyful if I read an update saying that for certain in the next few years that we will be able to have an injection every 4 - 6 months or a long acting under the skin implant or a weekly long acting pill, those types of treatment options would get me excited.

[Jim Allen]

Not to sound harsh, but I have to be honest, it's just an empty press statement; it lacks any details, study, news or clinical trial information.

[leatherman]

This sounds like something that comes out of the "Ending the Epidemic" campaign in America. I remember when 2020 was the target date. Then it was 2025, now it's 2030. Oh, I'm not blaming anyone for being unable to develop a cure or "end" the epidemic, I just think setting any end date before a cure is actually closer to development is just too much wishful thinking. There's nothing wrong with setting a time limit for your goals; but setting a goal for the 100% cure/ending an epidemic.....that goal just seems too unknowable to make any reasonable time, or even predictions, of success.

an injection every 4 - 6 months or a long acting under the skin implant or a weekly long acting pill, those types of treatment options would get me excited.

100%

[zach]

Optimistic to see a cure in my lifetime

Cynical the world will run out gas before that happens

[Loa111]

I am wondering then if this sort of article is more about giving the pharma company share prices a bit of a bump up for a day or two on the speculation of a cure!

When I was first DX'ed I used to get excited about any "cure" talk, then I'd feel frustrated when no news was coming, so I learned to tune the idea out of my mind, much better for peace of mind that way.

[kentfrat1783]

I've worked enough in the public sector, and under grants, that the "date" is what keeps the money moving.  No "Date" and no money. 

Yes it would be great if their is a cure but that isn't going to happen. 

I think having PrEP is great and once the doctors start to Rx it more that will be key in reducing the transmission of this disease.  Even having an annual test for HIV, and other STI's, during your wellness exam is key. 

Catching this, and any other illness, early is key.

[leatherman]

PreP.....that will be key in reducing the transmission of this disease

I think it's the reverse of that. Treatment, preferably early but treatment at any time, is key to stopping transmission. Getting everyone with HIV on treatment and as close to UD as possible (TasP, treatment as prevention) means no one will transmit HIV...and there's the end of the epidemic. The added benefit is that that same treatment allows PLWH to keep on living their healthy lives, earning wages, and caring for themselves. In the long run it should be cheaper to treat everyone with HIV to stop transmission than pay to protect everyone without HIV.