New Developments in HIV/AIDS Prevention
There are two new research studies that show great progress in working toward slowing the spread of HIV and AIDS. The first is a clinical trial that tested a topical gel similar to sexual lubricant. The product, PRO 2000, is a microbicide that supposedly binds itself to cells, preventing the virus from penetrating that cell. The study showed that women who used the gel were protected 30 percent better than those with the placebo. These results are probably not enough to get FDA approval in the United States, but other countries are considering its approval. It does seem like a step in the right direction: Finding a microbicide that can thwart the spread of HIV could be beneficial for many people. Women in poorer countries could benefit from access to the gel if they don't have access to better forms of protection, or to use in conjunction with condoms. Homosexual men benefit from a gel because it can be useful during anal sex. This is a nice development as we wait for a cure!
The second research study shows that some homosexual men who are in relationships with men who have AIDS may possess an antibody due to continuous contact with the virus from oral sex. Swedish researchers looked at 25 HIV negative men in long term relationships with HIV positive men. Since there is a much lower risk of contracting HIV and AIDS through oral sex, it appears that the constant exposure may have caused these men to have increased antibodies in their saliva. Thirteen of the 25 men had a significant amount of the HIV antibody in their saliva. Researchers are hypothesizing that this antibody can neutralize the virus and possibly produce immunity. This in no way is a signal that it is okay for people to start having unprotected oral sex, because more studies will definitely need to be conducted before any substantial claims are made. However, it seems as if once again research is making great headway!
Resources:
http://www.pridesource.com/article.shtml?article=33987
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/17/health/17glob.html?ref=science
http://www.aidsmap.com/en/news/BDB34C8A-4CA3-4451-8FC8-DC015992FD86.asp
http://www.popsci.com/scitech/article/2009-02/hiv-resistance-through-oral-sex