Health experts from more than 30 countries have gathered in Seattle to discuss efforts to eradicate AIDS-related fungal infections, according to a report from Edge Media.
Worldwide, more than 1.5 million people die of AIDS every year, many from fungal infections like meningitis and pneumonia and a tuberculosis-related fungal lung disease called chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.
The more than 60 experts in attendance represent major health agencies, such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Office for Global AIDS Coordination, The Global Fund, UNAIDS and the World Health Organization.
Delegates cited lack of diagnostics and access to treatment as two major barriers to improvements in developing countries. The experts also used a preliminary model to analyze the costs associated with treating and providing care for fungal infections in Africa.
Using the model, they found early screening and treatment for fungal infections is cost-effective, potentially saving nearly $500 million and as many as 140,000 lives every year, according to the report.
The meeting was sponsored by the Global Action Fund for Fungal Infections, an international foundation based in Geneva, Switzerland.
More articles on fungal infections:
Combined drug treatments a good approach for fungal infections, study shows
Pharmacist arrested for role in fungal meningitis outbreak
CDC Assigns UAB Contract for Fungal Meningitis Follow-Up