The fight against HIV has reached a historic milestone with Science magazine naming Lenacapavir its 2024 Breakthrough of the Year. This innovative injectable drug, administered every six months, has demonstrated up to 99.9% efficacy in preventing HIV infections. Lenacapavir’s success represents a revolutionary step in global HIV prevention, particularly for high-risk populations, and brings new hope to millions worldwide.

Central to this groundbreaking achievement is Professor Linda-Gail Bekker, a member of the Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM) and world-renowned infectious disease expert. Professor Bekker led one of the pivotal efficacy trials, which focused on adolescent girls and young women in South Africa. These trials, alongside others conducted globally, have established Lenacapavir as a new benchmark in the science of HIV prevention.

“This isn’t just a drug—it’s a game-changer in how we approach HIV prevention, particularly in regions hardest hit by the epidemic,” said Bekker.

The African-led trials, demonstrate the power of collaboration and local leadership in addressing global health challenges.

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