Scientists Test New HIV Therapy That Simplifies Treatment For Black Patients

In the United States, Black Americans disproportionately bear the burden of HIV/AIDS, representing an alarming 42 percent of new HIV infections, despite constituting only 13 percent of the populace. This imbalance results in significantly poorer health outcomes, with Black individuals experiencing a nine-fold higher mortality rate from HIV/AIDS compared to white individuals. These stark statistics underscore the pressing need for tailored HIV treatment strategies for the Black community.The recently published BRAAVE2020 study in the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes (JAIDS) shines a light on potential advancements. Investigating the efficacy of the single-pill regimen, Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (B/F/TAF), the study involved nearly 500 Black adults living with HIV. Findings indicated that after 24 weeks, both groups, those switching to B/F/TAF and those continuing their regimens, achieved comparable viral suppression rates. This study not only fills a vital research gap regarding B/F/TAF's effects on Black patients but also emphasizes the necessity of inclusive clinical trials, serving as a crucial model for future investigations aimed at reducing health disparities.