VOICED: AIDS centre in Ivory Coast thinks globally, acts locally

In 1987, Chanel's life changed when he contracted HIV while operating in Ivory Coast. He collaborated with Nobel laureate Luc Montagnier to establish the Center for Bio Clinical Research in Abidjan, focusing on combining research with patient care. The center prioritizes preventing mother-to-child virus transmission through breastfeeding, working on a vaccine to protect infants. Emphasis is also placed on treating patients who face discrimination, promoting the message that AIDS is no longer a death sentence. Despite a drop in infection rates, Ivory Coast still has high HIV rates, and the fight against AIDS continues.

What significant event in 1987 led to the establishment of the Center for Bio Clinical Research in Abidjan?

• A surgeon contracted HIV while operating on a patient.

• A new vaccine for HIV was discovered.

• A Nobel Prize was awarded for HIV research.

• The government provided funding for HIV research.

What is the primary research focus of the Center for Bio Clinical Research?

• Studying the genetic mutations of the HIV virus.

• Creating awareness about HIV prevention.

• Preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

• Developing a cure for HIV.

Why is it challenging to ask women in Africa to bottle feed instead of breastfeeding?

• Cultural beliefs strongly favor breastfeeding.

• Breastfeeding is seen as a status symbol.

• Bottle feeding is considered unhealthy.

• There is a lack of clean water for bottle feeding.

What message does the Center for Bio Clinical Research emphasize regarding HIV treatment?

• There is no effective treatment for HIV.

• HIV treatment is only for the wealthy.

• Only those who want to die will die.

• HIV is still a death sentence.

Despite a drop in infection rates, what challenge does Ivory Coast still face?

• A lack of medical professionals.

• Limited access to antiretroviral drugs.

• High rates of HIV infection.

• Insufficient research funding.