HIV Impact No Longer a Lost Case – Hope for The Future
In the late 1980s a new and devastating disease began to surface across the world: AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), caused by the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). Since its emergence, global efforts to treat, cure, and prevent HIV have made significant strides. Despite this progress, the HIV epidemic continues to grow at an alarming rate, affecting millions across the globe. While some victories have been achieved, the fight against HIV is far from over, with no corner of the world untouched by its impact. In 2023, 1.3 million people were newly infected with HIV worldwide, bringing the total number of people living with the virus to 40 million. However, only 30.7 million people were using life-saving antiretroviral treatment (ARVs), and 630,000 people died from AIDS-related conditions. Among the most vulnerable groups are adolescent girls and young women, gay men and other men who have sex with men, sex workers, substance users, and transgender individuals. In 2023, adolescent girls and young women accounted for 44% of all new infections, a staggering 210,000 cases. In sub-Saharan Africa, this translates to 3,100 new infections every week—one every three minutes. Three times more adolescent girls and young women currently live with HIV than their male counterparts. These young women often face the dual threats of limited autonomy and violence, which significantly increase their risk of HIV infection. A similarly alarming trend is seen among people who inject drugs. In sub-Saharan Africa, data is scarce, but evidence shows that injecting drug users are five times more likely to contract HIV. Women in this group are especially vulnerable, with a 20% higher chance of infection than their male counterparts. This population requires targeted interventions, including harm reduction programmes and comprehensive healthcare. Another high-risk group is gay men and other men who have sex with men. In the past decade, new infections in this group have risen by 11%, while other populations have seen declines. In 2022 alone, 210,000 new infections occurred among men who have sex with men. These individuals are 23 times more likely to contract HIV compared to other men, and around 35% lack access to ARVs. Improved healthcare access for this community is critical in the ongoing fight against HIV. Despite the challenges, significant progress has been made in the treatment of HIV. South Africa, for example, introduced a more effective pill in 2020, replacing the earlier combination therapy with Dolutegravir, Tenofovir, and Lamivudine. This new regimen has fewer side effects and offers better control of the virus, reducing the likelihood of transmission. In terms of prevention, there have been breakthrough developments. While vaccines remain elusive, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), such as the daily pill Tenofovir/Emtricitabine, has been widely adopted in many countries, including South Africa. More recently the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring (Dapiring) was approved in South Africa for use by women who are at risk of vaginally acquired HIV and offers a 62% reduction in new infections. Madibeng Centre for Research was key in the research work to show that this ring is safe, effective and acceptable for women to use. In 2024, hope shines even brighter with the recently announced PURPOSE trial results of Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking injectable medication. Administered every six months, this drug showed a 100% effectiveness in preventing HIV in young women and adolescents during clinical trials, of which Madibeng Centre for Research was a part. The medication also demonstrated a 98% reduction in new infections among gay men, men who have sex with men, and transgender people. Studies are ongoing to test its effectiveness in other high-risk groups, including people who inject drugs. The development of Lenacapavir marks a historic moment in the fight against HIV, offering a near-perfect preventive solution. If this medication becomes widely available, it has the potential to significantly reduce new infections, bringing the world closer to a future free of HIV and AIDS. The manufacturer, Gilead Sciences, is working to ensure the drug is accessible in countries where it is most needed, especially in regions with high rates of HIV infection. As we continue to make strides in treatment and prevention, the global community must remain united in its efforts to combat HIV. Individuals can contribute by supporting those at risk, promoting education, and backing research initiatives. With continued commitment and new innovations, the fight against HIV is far from a lost cause.
Madibeng Centre for Research Marks 23 Years of Cutting-edge Medical Research
The Madibeng Centre for Research (MCR) is celebrating 23 years of advancing healthcare through high-quality, community-driven medical research. Founded in 2001 as a community trust, MCR’s mission has always been to serve the Madibeng community by conducting cutting-edge health research, benefiting residents as well as scientific, business, and administrative partners. In 2024, MCR experienced significant growth both physically and operationally. The centre expanded its reach with the acquisition of a property adjacent to its current location at 40 Pienaar Street. The new space, secured at the end of 2023, has already begun to accommodate staff and will soon undergo further development into an advanced research facility. This expansion promises to boost MCR’s capacity, enabling the organisation to undertake more ambitious research projects and serve the local community even more effectively. MCR takes great pride in its workforce, with 75% of its employees drawn from the Madibeng area. Over the years, MCR has provided training and professional development opportunities for local staff, empowering them with specialised skills in clinical trials and research. The team, now 65-strong, has gained invaluable experience working with international sponsors and research organisations. In 2024, MCR made major strides in clinical research, particularly in the fight against HIV. For the past three years, the centre has participated in the PURPOSE1 study, testing Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking injectable HIV prevention medication. Results published in July 2024 revealed that Lenacapavir prevented 100% of HIV infections in participants—a world first in HIV prevention. Following the positive outcomes, nearly 95% of participants chose to continue using the medication. The sponsor, Gilead Sciences, has committed to providing Lenacapavir to participants until it becomes publicly available in South Africa, helping to protect about 200 young women in the Madibeng area from HIV, thereby enabling them to lead healthy lives, build families, and remain economically active. MCR is also participating in ongoing research into new HIV treatments, tuberculosis (TB) therapies that could reduce treatment duration from six months to two months, and an innovative TB vaccine. These studies are set to yield results in the coming years, further cementing MCR’s role as a leader in medical research. In addition to its research efforts, MCR is strengthening relationships with local healthcare providers. In 2024, the centre engaged with general practitioners in Madibeng to improve healthcare services and is continuing its collaboration with the Department of Health. MCR has been instrumental in revitalising the Local Drug Action Committee (LDAC) and launching the Madibeng Substance Use Programme (MaSUP). These initiatives aim to reduce harm and provide support to individuals and families affected by substance use. On 23 November 2024, MCR hosted its first outreach activity in Lethlabile, providing drug use screening and assistance to residents in collaboration with community organisations. The event was well-received and marked the beginning of a larger, community-based harm reduction initiative. MCR aims to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals affected by substance use by minimising the harm they experience and offering support to them, their families, and loved ones. MCR has also expanded its partnerships with educational institutions. Since late 2023, the centre has worked with Sefako Makgatho University to provide training for family physician registrars in Community Oriented Primary Care. Future collaborations with the university’s statistics and pharmacy departments are also planned. Looking ahead, MCR is in discussions with the Department of Health to establish a primary healthcare clinic, which will offer services such as well-baby clinics, vaccinations, and chronic disease management starting in 2025. MCR’s medical team includes doctors who will provide additional care for more complex health issues, ensuring that community members have access to comprehensive medical support. As MCR prepares for an exciting 2025, it remains focused on advancing research in areas such as heart failure, HIV prevention, and other pressing health concerns facing the Madibeng community and South Africa as a whole. The organisation’s ongoing work promises to contribute to shaping the future of healthcare by developing new treatments, introducing best practices, and improving patient outcomes for those who need it most.
Celebrating Excellence: Dr Bongai Khathide’s Achievement in Leadership Development
Date: 05/02/2024 Author: Madibeng Centre for Research (MCR) The Madibeng Centre for Research (MCR) is brimming with pride and joy as we extend our most heartfelt congratulations to Dr Bongai Khathide for being accepted as a fellow in the prestigious International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) Leadership Development Program (LDP), Cohort 3. Dr Khathide’s dedication to advancing scientific research, particularly in the field of HIV/AIDS, has been exemplary. Her journey with MCR began with a significant role as a study coordinator, where she demonstrated her commitment to the global health cause. Her academic achievements are notable, with a degree in Pharmacy from the University of the Western Cape (UWC), an MSc in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from North-West University (NWU), and a recent PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Pretoria. In 2021, Dr Khathide took a commendable leap into the clinical research field, contributing substantially to HIV treatment, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, and the development of COVID-19 vaccines. Her special interest in HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) research is not only a testament to her scientific acumen but also to her passion for making a difference in the world. The IAVI LDP, supported by PEPFAR through USAID, provides a year-long opportunity for early and mid-career scientists to hone their skills. It’s an initiative that aligns with MCR’s mission to cultivate leaders who will propel scientific innovation. The program’s emphasis on technical and soft skill development, mentorship, and grantsmanship will undoubtedly complement Dr Khathide’s expertise. Dr Khathide’s aspiration to develop her publication skills and become an independent clinical researcher/investigator is a journey MCR supports wholeheartedly. We believe that her involvement in the IAVI LDP will be instrumental in her growth and will further her impact on HIV vaccine research and development in Africa and India. Once again, congratulations to Dr Bongai Khathide on this remarkable achievement. Your MCR family is cheering you on as you embark on this new chapter of your professional development. We look forward to the groundbreaking work you will accomplish and the inspiring leadership you will provide in the scientific community. View the Biosketch here: Click here to view file With warm regards MCR
Presentation of substance use program with Mayor and Deputy Minister
Presentation of substance use program with Mayor and Deputy Minister In a momentous meeting of minds, Mr. Moatshe, a dedicated advocate for community welfare, found himself in the company of two distinguished individuals: Executive Mayor CLLR Douglas Maimane and Deputy Minister of Human Settlement Ms. Pamela Tshwete. The agenda for this gathering was none other than MCR’s visionary substance use program. It was a day marked by promise, the exchange of ideas, and the potential to bring about profound change. Beyond the usual protocols, Mr. Moatshe went a step further. He extended a gift of special significance to Mayor Maimane: a personally signed copy of the book titled “Bonds of Justice.” This literary work chronicles the remarkable journey of a group of young individuals hailing from Oukasie, the township adjacent to Brits, during the tumultuous years spanning 1980 to 2000. This gesture wasn’t just an exchange of literature; it was a symbol of unity and an acknowledgment of the shared history that binds communities together. At the heart of the discussion was MCR’s substance use program, a project that embodies the organization’s unwavering commitment to societal betterment. The program’s overarching goal is to provide comprehensive support to those ensnared by the grasp of substance use. However, it doesn’t stop there. It recognizes that the impact of addiction ripples through families and communities, leaving no one untouched. Hence, the program employs a holistic public health approach, bringing healthcare directly to the doorstep of those who need it most. The significance of this approach lies in its fundamental premise: the idea that healthcare should be accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances. Substance use disorders can affect anyone, transcending socioeconomic boundaries. By adopting a public health approach, MCR endeavors to break down barriers and stigma associated with addiction, making it easier for individuals and their families to seek help. The collaboration between MCR and Mayor Maimane’s office holds immense promise. Both entities share a common vision of fostering thriving, healthier communities. This partnership represents a powerful alliance that could catalyze transformative change. Mayor Maimane’s office, with its influence and resources, brings a wealth of opportunities to the table. It can provide the necessary infrastructure, support, and reach to make the substance use program more effective and far-reaching. Moreover, the mayor’s involvement lends credibility and authority to the initiative, potentially reducing the stigma associated with seeking help for substance use disorders. On the flip side, MCR brings its extensive experience and passion to the collaboration. Its grassroots approach and deep community ties make it uniquely positioned to understand the nuanced needs of individuals struggling with substance use. The organization’s commitment to bringing healthcare directly to the people aligns perfectly with the public health approach at the core of the substance use program. As we look to the future, excitement and optimism permeate the air. The potential impact of this collaboration is vast, touching the lives of countless individuals and families within the community. It signifies a commitment to addressing a pressing issue that affects not only the individuals grappling with addiction but also the society that surrounds them. In conclusion, the meeting between Mr. Moatshe, Mayor Maimane, and Deputy Minister Tshwete was not just a gathering of individuals; it was a convergence of visionaries, each driven by a passion to make a positive difference. With MCR’s substance use program and the mayor’s office poised to join forces, the future holds great promise for the communities they serve. It is a testament to the power of collaboration, unity, and the unwavering belief that positive change is not only possible but also within reach.