Gilead and Elton John AIDS Foundation Collaborate on New Initiative to Combat HIV in Eastern Europe and Central Asia
Gilead Sciences, Inc. and the Elton John AIDS Foundation have announced a significant partnership extension to address the growing HIV epidemic in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA). The RADIAN initiative, a groundbreaking collaboration between the two organizations, aims to provide support for key populations in the region where the HIV epidemic is on the rise.
Addressing the HIV Crisis in EECA
While HIV rates are declining globally, EECA remains a region where the epidemic is worsening. Since 2010, new HIV diagnoses have increased by 20% and AIDS-related deaths by 34% in EECA. Of the 2.1 million people living with HIV in the region, 41% are unaware of their status, and 50% are not receiving treatment, falling significantly below the global 95-95-95-95 targets.
Daniel O’Day, Chairman and CEO of Gilead Sciences, emphasizes the importance of focusing efforts on EECA to ensure that no region is left behind in the fight against HIV. During a recent visit to Kazakhstan, O’Day met with community leaders supported by RADIAN who highlighted the need for continued collaboration to address the structural drivers of the epidemic, strengthen health systems, and empower local organizations for lasting impact.
Impact of RADIAN on HIV Response
Since its inception in 2019, RADIAN has made significant strides in the HIV response in EECA. The initiative has reached over 271,000 individuals with HIV services, conducted more than 114,000 HIV tests, reinitiated over 26,500 people on antiretroviral therapy, and trained over 14,000 frontline workers to reduce stigma and discrimination.
Despite these efforts, the region faces escalating challenges, with the conflict in Ukraine exacerbating the crisis. Anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, human rights violations, stigma, and discrimination further hinder the HIV response in EECA.
Anne Aslett, CEO of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, underscores the Foundation’s commitment to supporting individuals at risk of or living with HIV in EECA. Aslett praises the RADIAN partnership with Gilead Sciences for making a tangible impact in combating the epidemic in the region and highlights the importance of continuing to support those most affected by HIV through innovative and scalable solutions.
Expanding Geographic Reach and Support
In the next five years, RADIAN will expand its efforts to provide support for key populations in EECA, including people who use drugs, men who have sex with men, sex workers, and transgender individuals. The initiative will also extend its geographic focus to include countries hosting refugees fleeing Ukraine, such as Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and Germany, where additional HIV services are urgently needed.
The expansion will address language barriers, social isolation, and internalized stigma that hinder refugees from accessing essential HIV treatment and care. By broadening its reach, RADIAN aims to improve access to HIV services and support the mental and social well-being of vulnerable communities.
In addition to ongoing efforts, RADIAN will introduce an innovation fund to support creative applications that enhance the effectiveness of the HIV response in EECA. The fund will accept proposals on a rolling basis to facilitate flexible funding opportunities as new innovations emerge.
About RADIAN, Gilead Sciences, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation
RADIAN is a pioneering partnership between Gilead Sciences and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, dedicated to supporting grassroots organizations and partners in EECA to address HIV-related challenges in the region. By collaborating with local leaders and community partners, RADIAN works to deliver community-based services, strengthen health systems, and address structural barriers impeding the HIV response.
Gilead Sciences, a research-based biopharmaceutical company, has been a leading innovator in HIV research for over 35 years. The company has developed 12 HIV medications, including the first single-tablet regimen, the first antiretroviral for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and the first long-acting injectable HIV treatment.
The Elton John AIDS Foundation, established in 1992, is a prominent independent AIDS organization dedicated to ending the AIDS epidemic. The Foundation funds local experts across four continents to challenge discrimination, prevent infections, provide treatment, and advocate for an end to AIDS.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Gilead Sciences and the Elton John AIDS Foundation through the RADIAN initiative signifies a continued commitment to combating the HIV epidemic in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. By expanding support for key populations, addressing structural barriers, and promoting innovation, RADIAN aims to make a lasting impact in the region’s HIV response.