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Microbicides to be introduced for Aids prevention
New Delhi, Sept 28: Having failed to contain the spread of HIV/Aids among women mainly because they had little role in the existing prevention strategies, the government is now contemplating on introducing microbicides in Aids prevention programme.
New Delhi, Sept 28: Having failed to contain the spread of HIV/Aids among women mainly because they had little role in the existing prevention strategies, the government is
now contemplating on introducing microbicides in Aids prevention programme.
"Microbicides could expand the range of prevention
options available to women and may address the current
obstacles women face in protecting themselves," director
general, Indian Council for Medical Research, N K Ganguly told
reporters here.
Microbicides are substances which could be formulated as creams and gels and prevent transmission of HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases when applied at the mouth of female genitals, he said.
"These could be used alone or in conjunction with a cervical barrier such as diaphragm, cervical cap or sponge," Ganguly said.
Introduction of microbicides would be discussed keeping in mind that many women failed to implement existing preventive measures such as abstinence, mutual monogamy and condoms without the cooperation of their partner, he said.
"Women are more vulnerable to HIV infections than men. Gender norms, socioeconomic status and disempowering cultural messages also contribute to women's vulnerability to infection," Ganguly said.
ICMR in collaboration with programme for appropriate technology in health (path) was convening two-day national policy meeting on microbicides and HIV prevention options for women, from September 29.
Bureau Report
Microbicides are substances which could be formulated as creams and gels and prevent transmission of HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases when applied at the mouth of female genitals, he said.
"These could be used alone or in conjunction with a cervical barrier such as diaphragm, cervical cap or sponge," Ganguly said.
Introduction of microbicides would be discussed keeping in mind that many women failed to implement existing preventive measures such as abstinence, mutual monogamy and condoms without the cooperation of their partner, he said.
"Women are more vulnerable to HIV infections than men. Gender norms, socioeconomic status and disempowering cultural messages also contribute to women's vulnerability to infection," Ganguly said.
ICMR in collaboration with programme for appropriate technology in health (path) was convening two-day national policy meeting on microbicides and HIV prevention options for women, from September 29.
Bureau Report