Current controversies in the perinatal transmission of HIV in developing countries

Abstract

The HIV pandemic has posed unique scientific challenges to develop new technologies and therapeutic interventions. However, the profound societal impact and global urgency for a response have added an exceptional dimension to the crisis. The result has been a melting pot of opinions and approaches. Laboratory scientists contend with issues of behaviour and global economies, while politicians grapple with the effectiveness of drug regimes. Inevitably, controversy has arisen on issues of scientific rigour, the ethics of international disparities, and the application of technology in widely differing contexts and cultures. This article reviews some of these sensitive issues based on experience in sub-Saharan Africa. The HIV pandemic has posed unique scientific challenges to develop new technologies and therapeutic interventions. However, the profound societal impact and global urgency for a response have added an exceptional dimension to the crisis. The result has been a melting pot of opinions and approaches. Laboratory scientists contend with issues of behaviour and global economies, while politicians grapple with the effectiveness of drug regimes. Inevitably, controversy has arisen on issues of scientific rigour, the ethics of international disparities, and the application of technology in widely differing contexts and cultures. This article reviews some of these sensitive issues based on experience in sub-Saharan Africa.