The public health benefits of microbicides in lower-income countries: model projections

This study estimates the potential public health impact from the introduction of an effective microbicide in lower-income countries. The study measures this impact in two ways: in terms of the number of HIV infections that could potentially be averted over three years by widespread microbicide introduction and use; and by estimating the global economic benefits of preventing these HIV infections. The study focuses on four groups that could potentially access microbicides through existing services. These include: sex workers in contact with HIV prevention services; sexually active adolescents in schools; injecting drug users in contact with HIV prevention services; and women in regular partnerships receiving contraceptive services.

The study finds that widespread microbicide use in lower-income countries has the potential to yield significant public health benefits. The authors argue that, even by using relatively conservative assumptions about microbicide efficacy and coverage, the three year impact of microbicide use could result in 2.5 million HIV infections averted in lower income countries. This could lead to savings of US$2.7 billion in health systems costs and an additional US$1 billion in productivity savings gained from preventing absenteeism, and retraining and replacing workers. The authors call for sustained donor support and political commitment to realise this potential[adapted from author]