HIV in the Philippines: A prime target for elimination through test-and-treat

ABSTRACT

While the Philippines has one of the lowest HIV prevalence rates in the world, an unprecedented increase in recent years seems to indicate that a large epidemic is only be a matter of time. Multiple factors including poor condom use, increasing rates of casual sex, and misinformation, are ingredients for the widespread emergence of HIV. Financial consequences will be significant since the Philippine economy is increasingly driven by industries employing young people who are at risk. Recent research showing better clinical outcomes for early treatment with antiretrovirals (ARVs), coupled with data demonstrating a drastic reduction in transmission with early therapy, provide a compelling argument for a universal test and treat strategy. With just over 7,000 confirmed cases, this approach is financially feasible, and is an efficient model for proof-of-concept.