Kaisernetwork.org's "Ask the Experts" to Discuss Low-Cost Antiretroviral Drugs

Join kaisernetwork.org on Wednesday, June 16 at 3 p.m. ET to discuss low-cost antiretroviral drugs during its "Ask the Experts," a live call-in show that lets you pose questions on the topic to guest panelists. According to a recent report from the World Health Organization, less than 7% of the six million HIV-positive people in the developing world who need treatment are thought to have access to it. Low-cost drugs, including generics, would stretch existing resources further, although debate continues over their distribution (Kaiser Daily HIV/AIDS Report, 5/12). WHO has established a prequalification review system with standards for safety and efficacy and has approved certain generic drugs for use in developing countries. The United States recently announced plans for a new FDA fast-track review program to speed the delivery of low-cost antiretroviral drugs -- including generic and brand-name fixed-dose combinations -- to African and Caribbean nations covered under the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. U.S. officials wanted to ensure that the drugs would not contribute to the development of drug-resistant HIV strains through widespread or improper distribution and use (Kaiser Daily HIV/AIDS Report, 5/18). The panel will include Jennifer Kates, director of HIV Policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation; Dr. David Hoos, assistant professor at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health; and Dr. Mark Dybul, deputy chief medical officer in the Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator.

Click here to view the webcast.

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