Why Microbicides?

The number of new HIV/AIDS cases continues to challenge the world’s ability to contain the epidemic. Treatment has been revolutionary, but treatment alone is not the solution.

According to UNAIDS, 3.5 million more infections occurred between 2015 and 2020 than if UNAIDS targets had been met—including three times higher than the target for young women.1

Empowering Women to Protect Their Health

Women and girls are particularly vulnerable to infection due to a combination of biology and gender inequities, yet they lack the tools they urgently need to protect themselves.

In sub-Saharan Africa, where the epidemic has hit hardest, young women ages 15-24 are more than three times as likely to acquire HIV as young men.2

HIV/AIDS is one of the leading causes of death among women ages 15-49 worldwide.3

Safe and effective microbicides, like a monthly vaginal ring or a single-use film or tablet, would put the power of protection into women's hands.

 

UNAIDS. With the right investment, AIDS can be over — A US$ 29 billion investment to end AIDS by the end of the decade. 2021.
2 UNAIDS, AIDSinfo database. http://aidsinfo.unaids.org, accessed August 30, 2021.
UNAIDS. “We’ve Got the Power: Women, Adolescent Girls and the HIV Response”. 2020.