On the critical list

摘要

Good news and bad news this issue. We'll commence with the good: WHO is now recommending that ARV treatment of HIV-positive patients should commence when their CD4 count drops to 350 rather than waiting till it is at 200 (see page 21). Logistically this brings challenges, but it is a huge leap forward for both patient and carer. Thank you WHO. And the bad news? Alas this might be the last issue of Africa Health that you see. Funding for Africa Health has never been less than tricky, and as I write it is very much in the balance whether we can raise the funds we need to sustain the publication. Two of our key donor supporters have had their budgets cut and have had to withdraw their support at the end of 2009. Crucial discussions are taking place with other agencies who care about medical knowledge and communication.