Nobel winning Barre-Sinoussi optimistic about HIV cure

[xchrom]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/hardtalk/9726339.stm


Professor Francoise Barre-Sinoussi wants to see the Catholic Church change its stance on condoms to help prevent the spread of HIV



The scientist who won a Nobel prize for her work in first identifying HIV says she at last believes finding a cure for the virus which causes Aids might be possible.
French virologist Francoise Barre-Sinoussi said she could not put a timescale on when it might be found but scientists were developing promising new tools.
Over 30 million people have died from HIV/AIDS since it was first identified in 1981.
Since then there has been a number of prevention and treatment breakthroughs so that people with HIV can expect to live a relatively normal lifespan - providing they have access to the correct drugs.
"The reason why we are talking about a cure today is because we have some evidence that it might be possible," Professor Barre-Sinoussi told Tim Franks on the BBC's HARDtalk programme.
Until recently medical researchers had virtually given up the pursuit of a cure but the experiences of two patients now suggest to many scientists that it may be achievable.

[William769]

1. Recommended on so many levels.

[pinto]

2. Good, balanced statement. I hope she spurs other researchers to renew their focus on a cure.