Gilead Sciences, a research-based biopharmaceutical company, launched its HIV STAR program in KSA, UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar with the aim of increasing awareness about HIV among healthcare professionals from various specialties. The ongoing initiative plays a crucial role in the early diagnosis and referral of individuals at high risk of developing the disease.
The STAR (Suspect, Test, Advise, Refer) Program has been introduced across most of the GCC region, with the first phase already reaching completion in the UAE. The second phase of the launch took place in Bahrain, followed by Qatar and KSA. The program represents an ongoing collaboration between Gilead Sciences and regional infectious diseases societies in UAE , Qatar , KSA and Bahrain that will strengthen the impact of the program in the region.
Vitor Papao, General Manager of Gilead Sciences, Middle East, emphasized the company's commitment to ending the HIV epidemic both regionally and globally. He stated, "The HIV STAR Program is a testament to our goal of working together with key stakeholders in the medical community to increase HIV knowledge and awareness among healthcare professionals who may not directly manage patients with the virus."
Jameela Alsalman, Associate Professor at Arabian Gulf University, Senior Infectious Disease Consultant at King Hamad American Mission Hospital and Salmaniya Medical Complex said: “The launch of the HIV STAR Program in the GCC, led by Gilead Sciences, is a crucial step in raising HIV awareness among healthcare professionals in the region. By involving specialists from various fields, we aim to identify and refer individuals at high risk of HIV. This collaborative initiative demonstrates our commitment to ending the epidemic and improving HIV care and treatment.”
The STAR Program aims to raise awareness among healthcare professionals from non-HIV specialties, including dermatologists, urologists, gynecologists, and general practitioners, through educational meetings. It emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and referral for individuals at risk of developing HIV. By collaborating with regional medical societies and key hospitals in the UAE, KSA, Bahrain, and Qatar, the initiative aims to increase testing and referral from non-HIV specialties.
Gilead is dedicated to advancing research and innovation in the field of HIV and developing new therapies that can significantly improve the lives of people living with or at risk of HIV. The company's cutting-edge HIV research program focuses on addressing the specific needs of marginalized communities and underrepresented populations.
In addition to its focus on developing new treatments, Gilead is committed to expanding access to life-saving medicines through industry-leading programs and partnerships. By driving inclusive science, Gilead aims to provide treatment options that have the potential to transform HIV care and improve the lives of individuals living with HIV.
Gilead's mission to advance the fight against HIV is ongoing, as the company has already developed 11 commercially available HIV medications and continues to work on a robust pipeline of next-generation therapeutic options. Gilead's dedication to expanding global access to its medicines through innovative programs and partnerships remains unwavering.
