CROI 2025 Launches Amid Rising Concerns Over Funding Cuts and Healthcare Access

The annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2025) kicked off in San Francisco on Sunday, clouded by significant uncertainties stemming from the recent suspension of government funding under the Trump administration, sparking fears for the future of HIV services.

Conference chair Dr. Diane Havlir from the University of California, San Francisco, articulated the grave situation in her opening remarks: “We are facing a cataclysmic and cruel precipitous disruption of HIV services. We condemn the censoring of science and the abandonment of evidence-based programs that have improved treatment and prevention for HIV.”

In a unified front, the CROI Foundation and program committee expressed their solidarity with colleagues worldwide during this tumultuous period. They acknowledged the apprehension surrounding government actions and emphasized the critical need for scientific and advocacy communities to band together. 'Together, we navigate these difficult times,' they stated. 'Now more than ever, we must support research and enhance the lives of individuals globally.'

Dr. Katharine Bar of the University of Pennsylvania pointed out the extensive benefits that HIV research has brought to other medical fields, including developments in vaccines and cancer therapies. 'HIV science has fundamentally improved our understanding of various conditions,' she stated. 'As we celebrate our advancements, we must also recognize the attack on science and humane medical care.'

This year’s CROI has drawn an impressive 3,700 participants, with 40% attending from outside the U.S. Although some presentations on the diversity of people living with HIV were withdrawn due to current political climates, over 90% of accepted abstracts are set to be presented, ensuring robust discourse. Notably, virtual accommodations have been made for participants from the CDC, NIH, and other federal agencies who are facing funding limitations and travel restrictions.

While previous CROI events showcased groundbreaking developments, such as long-acting PrEP formulations, this year is expected to focus more on implementing recent advances in HIV care. Many discussions will revolve around expanding access to critical treatments for underserved populations across the globe.

In an emotionally charged session, long-time HIV advocate Dawn Averitt honored the legacy of Martin Delaney during CROI's opening lecture, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and advocacy. Rebecca Dennison, who was diagnosed with HIV just before the 1990 International AIDS Conference, shared her journey from activism to advocacy. She exhorted attendees to recognize that the strides made in HIV management deserve continued protection and advocacy.

'The reckless actions we see today are akin to dropping an egg on the floor,' Dennison cautioned. 'We can’t pick it up and just put it back together again. We must stand firm and not bend to despair, as that is exactly what they want.'

The conference spotlight is also on the long-term progress within HIV treatment. Dennison reflected on her personal journey, including becoming a mother after years of effective treatment. 'Today, many people living with HIV are unaware of a time when there were no accessible treatments. However, without a fight to safeguard these resources, we risk losing the gains we’ve achieved,' she warned.

As the conference unfolds, participants are reminded of the urgent need to advocate for accessible healthcare for all, particularly vulnerable communities. 'Because of scientists and advocates alike, millions of lives have been saved, but if we cannot ensure access to treatment, our progress may be in jeopardy,' Dennison concluded, calling for a united stand against currents that threaten democratic principles and health rights.

CROI 2025 is set to not only be a gathering of minds but a rallying cry to protect the invaluable health advancements achieved over decades. Let’s see how the next few days unfold and what renewed commitments can be forged in challenging times.