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In Northern Ireland, advocates have called for the adoption of a revolutionary drug that could help in the prevention of HIV. The introduction of cabotegravir (CAB-LA) injections was recently announced in England and Wales to align with the strategy in Scotland, with the aim of aiding the goal of eradicating new cases of HIV in the UK by 2030. This injection, administered six times a year, serves as an alternative to the daily pill regimen of HIV prevention known as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).
The Department of Health (DoH) is considering the implementation of this new drug following guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). HIV poses a significant threat by damaging the immune system’s cells, thereby decreasing the body’s ability to combat infections and diseases. While pills have been effective in preventing HIV infections, challenges such as accessibility, practicality, and privacy concerns may hinder their consistent use, particularly for individuals facing issues like homelessness or domestic violence.
Scott Cuthbertson, CEO of the Rainbow Project, an organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of the LGBT community, expressed optimism about the potential impact of cabotegravir, describing it as a game-changer. The initiative to end HIV transmission by 2030 in Northern Ireland has garnered support from organizations like Positive Life, the region’s sole charity dedicated to HIV. Lea Dickson of Positive Life emphasized the importance of proactive healthcare innovation in addressing existing stigmas and misconceptions surrounding HIV, urging a focused approach to prevention efforts.
The alignment with NICE guidelines ensures that treatments recommended for routine use in the NHS in England will also be accessible in Northern Ireland once the final guidance on cabotegravir is issued, anticipated on November 5, 2025. With the introduction of innovative preventive measures like cabotegravir, there is hope for a more proactive and inclusive approach to sexual health within communities affected by HIV
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