Question-and-Answer: The Future of HIV December 24, 2012 Last
week, the Foundation hosted a presentation on the history and
future of HIV/AIDS, “The AIDS Epidemic at Year 30: Is There an
End in Sight?” Led by Dr. Mike McCune of San Francisco General
Hospital, the presentation provided an overview of the HIV/AIDS
epidemic, and where we are on the path to a cure. After his
presentation, Dr. McCune talked with us about why some people
living with HIV aren’t taking antiretrovirals, what challenges
we face in creating an HIV vaccine, and the role of preventative
medicines in HIV treatment. What are some of the reasons people
living with HIV may be receiving care-and-treatment, but not
antiretrovirals (ARVs)? (Some) possible reasons include: 1. They
choose not to take ARVs. 2. They are not offered ARVs. 3. They
cannot afford ARVs if offered. 4. ARVs are found to be hard to
take, e.g., because of side effects. 5. They are receiving care
and treatment from those who do not encourage the use of ARVs.
What are some of