Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2005. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Mail & Guardian (Johannesburg) - May 6, 2005
Rapule Tabane
Rath has questioned the safety of anti-retrovirals and recommended the use of vitamins and micronutrients to treat HIV-positive people.
On Thursday Tshabalala-Msimang told journalists at a press briefing at the Union Buildings that the work that Rath was doing did not contradict government health policies. "Dr Rath's work complies with and complements our programmes," she said.
The minister repeatedly said that there was under-reporting of the side effects of anti-retrovirals. "I can't stand on a pedestal and say it is all good. It is obviously critical to educate people on the side effects of anti-retrovirals and if by doing so I endorse Dr Rath, then I don't know."
She said she would continue to highlight the importance of good nutrition and would not allow government to be pressured by the World Health Organisation's target of having three-million HIV-positive people on anti-retroviral treatment by 2005. The minister also disputed figures provided by her own department at the briefing that claimed 42 000 patients were on anti-retroviral treatment. "I don't know how they arrived at that figure. I don't know how it jumped from 28 000 to 42 000. If I get a report, it must be a comprehensive report that also mentions how many have dropped off the programme and how many have died of side effects. I have said before that I am not chasing numbers but the quality of health care."
050506
MG050503
Copyright © 2005 - Daily Mail & Guardian. For information about the content or for permission to redistribute, publish or use for broadcast, contact the publisher.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2005. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2005. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .