Examining the Probable Consequences of Alternative Patterns of Widespread Antiretroviral Drug Use in Resource-Constrained Settings

Summary: As private, bilateral, and multilateral initiatives begin to fund antiretroviral therapy programs for HIV/AIDS patients living in resource-constrained settings, scientists and practitioners have cautioned that the clinical and epidemiological effects of implementing such programs must be considered. The main concern is that of fostering premature emergence of widespread Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) drug resistance, thereby increasing short-term treatment failure rates and reducing the long-term durability of antiretroviral treatment regimes in developing countries. This study will be a fast-track study of 7 months and will include one workshop and two committee meetings. The workshop will present case studies describing the implementation of antiretroviral therapy programs in resource-poor areas and the success or failure of such treatment for producing durable benefits. Presentations and papers will detail the clinical, scientific, ethical, and logistics information and experience in Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean. The factors thought necessary to minimize drug resistance will be highlighted.