Fact Check: Gilead's scheme excludes high-need countries like Brazil and Argentina.

Fact Check: "Gilead's scheme excludes high-need countries like Brazil and Argentina."

What We Know

Gilead Sciences has recently announced a plan to allow six generic pharmaceutical companies to produce and sell lenacapavir, a new HIV prevention drug, in 120 countries. This initiative aims to improve access to the drug in regions with high HIV incidence, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the licensing agreements notably exclude several middle- and high-income countries, including Brazil and Argentina, which are significant due to their high rates of new HIV infections (New York Times, Gilead).

The exclusion of these countries is particularly concerning as they account for a substantial percentage of new infections globally. For instance, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico collectively represent about 20% of new HIV cases (New York Times). The licensing deal is structured such that Gilead will sell lenacapavir at higher prices in these excluded countries, which raises questions about equitable access to essential medications (New York Times, Gilead).

Analysis

The claim that Gilead's licensing scheme excludes high-need countries like Brazil and Argentina is substantiated by multiple sources. The New York Times reports that Gilead's agreement leaves out most middle- and high-income countries, which includes Brazil and Argentina, despite their significant HIV burden. This exclusion has been criticized by health experts and civil society organizations, who argue that it perpetuates inequities in access to life-saving medications (Gilead, ITPC Global).

Moreover, the Guardian highlights that the countries excluded from the scheme are precisely where a significant portion of new HIV cases occur, indicating a disconnect between Gilead's objectives and the realities of HIV transmission dynamics in these regions. Critics argue that the criteria for inclusion in the licensing agreement lack transparency and do not prioritize public health needs (Salud por Derecho, ITPC Global).

The reliability of these sources is bolstered by their focus on public health advocacy and their engagement with civil society, which often provides an essential counter-narrative to corporate communications. The Gilead press release, while factual, may present a more favorable view of the company's actions, emphasizing its commitment to ending the HIV epidemic without fully addressing the implications of its exclusions.

Conclusion

The claim that Gilead's scheme excludes high-need countries like Brazil and Argentina is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that these countries, which have high rates of HIV infections, are not included in the licensing agreements for lenacapavir. This exclusion raises significant concerns about equitable access to HIV prevention methods for vulnerable populations in these regions.

Sources

1. Gilead Agrees to Allow Generic Version of Groundbreaking ...
2. Lenacapavir: Gilead's voluntary licenses do not reach countries that ...
3. Gilead Signs Royalty-Free Voluntary Licensing Agreements with Six ...
4. Global South Leaders Condemn Gilead's Restrictive ...
5. Gilead strikes deal to expand HIV drug access in 120 countries
6. ‘HIV-ending’ drug could be made for just $25 per patient a ...
7. Gilead Signs Deal to Expand HIV Drug Access in 120 Developing Countries
8. Statement from Latin American Civil Society to Gilead ...