Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2004. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 14, 2004
JOHANNESBURG (PLUSNEWS) - At least 600 global health experts are participating in an appeal for the provision of free treatment to all people living with HIV/AIDS in developing countries.
The "Free by 5" declaration, initiated by the Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD) of University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, will be presented to a number of international aid organisations in the next few days, including the World Bank, the World Health Organisation and UNAIDS.
It urges donors and the UN to actively promote the implementation of free treatment, and formally adopt clear guidelines on the necessity of free AIDS treatment.
HEARD director Prof Allan Whiteside told the UN news service PlusNews: "We are hoping to spur a debate that will lead to a clear commitment [from international health institutions and governments] to provide free treatment."
Research shows that of an estimated 5.5 million people in need of AIDS treatment worldwide, only 440,000 are receiving it.
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