Priorities for the Year
AVAC's Playbook 2012 sets out top strategic goals and priorities in HIV prevention for ourselves—and for the world. Here's what we have to say about microbicides. For more, visit www.avac.org/playbook.What's New
VOICE Trial Results Underscore Need to Accelerate Development of Additional HIV Prevention Options for Women- PrEP strategies remain a valuable tool; read the AVAC statement
- Microbicides Trial Network — Daily HIV prevention approaches didn't work for African women in the VOICE study
- Microbicides Trial Network — Understanding the results of VOICE
- US National Institutes of Health — Daily-use HIV prevention approaches prove ineffective among women in NIH study
- Background on VOICE trial and reaction to results
- Visit prepwatch.org for further resources
- Upcoming
post-CROI webinar will include VOICE
discussion; register
Background on Microbicides
After many years of research, there is now proof of concept that a topical gel can reduce women’s risk of acquiring HIV during vaginal sex. This finding from the CAPRISA 004 microbicide trial was one of the recent highlights of HIV prevention research.
The term microbicide refers to various strategies being tested that may reduce the risk of HIV transmission during sex. These include creams, gels, and suppositories that could be used vaginally or rectally. The large majority of microbicide candidates in testing today are formulated with antiretroviral (ARV) drugs.
As the microbicide research agenda accelerates, there is more work than ever for advocates to do in monitoring follow-up steps, mobilizing to ensure priorities are met and communicating results. Whether you are just learning about microbicides or have been following the field for many years, this section has resources for you.
Introductory Information
Tracking the Field
In-depth Resources
- A Cascade of Hope and Questions: Understanding the results of CAPRISA 004
- Microbicides: Ways Forward
- 1% tenofovir gel for HIV prevention webpage
- CAPRISA 004 page