HIV Science In Action

HIV Science In Action is a new initiative that aims to bridge the gap between the laboratory and the community.

A unique collaboration between the HIV research teams at St George’s, University of London and the members of the UK African Microbicides Working Group, it brings together scientists working on new ways to combat the spread of HIV and the HIV activists educating and empowering those in the community.

It allows both sides in the frontline in the fight against the global spread of HIV to share fresh insights, information and opinions, influencing the development of products that could transform the lives of millions.

Ever since HIV was first recognised as a new disease 26 years ago, scientists at St George’s, University of London have been carrying out research into its treatment and prevention. The latest research, led by Professors Robin Shattock and Martin Cranage, focuses on HIV vaccines and microbicides — a gel women can use discreetly to protect themselves against the transmission of HIV.

HIV Science In Action is vital in allowing scientists to understand the cultural context of microbicides — which products would best appeal to people in high-risk groups, the issues surrounding partner consent and the myths still surrounding HIV — and puts a face to the disease they are studying, bringing home how urgent the need is for new methods of protection.

For the HIV advocates the collaboration is a way of engaging scientists about the African community’s needs and perceptions — as well as enhancing activists’ knowledge of the science of microbicides.

The UK African Microbicides Working Group brings together HIV treatment activists, people living with HIV, health promotion specialists, researchers and policy analysts. It is coordinated by the African HIV Policy Network, an umbrella organisation which advocates for fair policies for African people living with HIV in the UK. The group aims to accelerate the ethical development and global delivery of microbicides and other HIV prevention options.

Already members of the group have toured the St George’s laboratories twice, while scientists have visited London support centre Positively Women to learn more about how messages about new methods of HIV prevention are being communicated.

A series of talks by scientists at community events and tours of the labs are planned for the future, with regular e-bulletins circulated to keep members up to date on news, events and activities. For more information about HIV Science In Action, to get involved, or sign up to our e-bulletin, email hiv.science.in.action@sgul.ac.uk

Read about HIV Science In Action on the BBC’s Inside Out show at www.bbc.co.uk/insideout/london/