May 23, 2012

Drug-Resistant HIV Strains Increasing in Uganda

Drug-resistant HIV strains are becoming more common in Uganda; their prevalence is 12 percent today compared with 8.6 percent in 2007, PlusNews reports. The PharmAccess African Studies to Evaluate Resistance (PASER) report found that the prevalence of drug resistance among people who have never taken antiretroviral (ARV) medications was also high. Drug resistance occurs when people don’t respond to ARVs and their health falters, though they are taking drugs correctly and consistently. Researchers found that low treatment adherence, a shortage of health professionals, little training, an inconsistent drug supply and low enforcement of quality standards were among the causes of drug resistance. To lower resistance rates, researchers said national HIV treatment programs should be strengthened and include steady supply chains, routine health treatment and access to second- and third-line drug regimens.

To read the PlusNews article, click here.

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