What is the current status of ARV treatment?
Ans: In developing countries, only about 15% of those in need are receiving anti–retrovirals, while there is near universal access in high–income countries. Until recently, the high cost of the medicines, inadequate health care infrastructure and lack of financing has prevented wide use of combination ARV treatment in low– and middle–income countries, however, increased political and financial commitment in recent years, stimulated by people living with HIV, civil society and other partners has, has enabled a dramatic expansion of access to HIV therapy. In 2002, 12 ARV medicines were included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. These additions to the list were made after careful analysis of evidence of ARV efficacy in developing countries, which shows that these medicines can be used effectively and safely in these settings.
