The Times offers a valuable platform for discussion

journAIDS

15 August 2011

An op-ed piece in Monday’s edition of The Times draws much-needed attention to the role of behaviour change in HIV prevention.

Recent breakthroughs in the science and medicine of HIV treatment and prevention have meant that much of the media’s attention has been fixed firmly on the development of microbicide gels, the advent of pre-exposure prophylaxis (Prep), rollout of medical male circumcision and the accessibility of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

Whilst these are all firm and promising steps towards stemming the spread of the virus, behaviour change remains an important component in addressing and redressing the spread of HIV.

By dedicating nearly an entire page to a rich discussion on the importance of facilitating behaviour change in conjunction with biomedical intervention, The Times have shown that they are committed to covering the epidemic in a comprehensive and considered manner.

The op-ed piece is also proof that when given a platform for discussion, experts in HIV management can have meaningful and stimulating debates about the salient issues South Africa’s epidemic.

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