World AIDS Day - 1 December 2009

In the past year the prospects for those with HIV/AIDS have improved as the results of research and of education has increased our understanding of the disease. Additionally, the continuation of specific fund allocation has expanded the numbers for whom treatment has been provided.

The darker side of the picture is reflected in the fact that still less than 50% of the infected population in middle and low income countries (estimated to total nearly 9 million) have access to medicines. The deterioration of the global economy has put pressure on the allocation of resources toward programme expansion and general funding may well be constrained in the short to medium term from both governments and global agencies.

The most effective use of available resources therefore becomes vital. Support of the majority of those with HIV/AIDS is undertaken through vertical programmes but, with further expansion of the numbers treated, the likelihood that patients will have contact with routine healthcare services increases and therefore involves many more professionals.

The needs and priorities in the communities in which we live and serve will point to the ways we can bring our professional expertise to bear. As well as in the general promotion of the local initiatives, pharmacists and their staff can directly support patients and their carers. This relates particularly to the theme for 2009 which is "Universal Access and Human Rights" through which pharmacy orientated aspects such as continuity of supply and quality of medicines, patient orientated aspects such as adherence and advice on dealing with adverse effects and community orientated aspects such as support of those often given less consideration, such as women and children, may be incorporated.

Ivan Kotzé
President CPA

For further information contact: admin@commonwealthpharmacy.org