The Alarming Impact of U.S. HIV Funding Cuts

Public health experts are raising red flags over the recent decision by the U.S. to scale back funding for vital global HIV prevention programs, particularly through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Dr. Mulugeta Gebregziabher, a prominent public health professor at the Medical University of South Carolina and a federal employee with the Veterans Administration, is among those sounding the alarm.

A Dire Warning from the Frontlines of Public Health

In a revealing interview at the IAS 2025 meeting in Kigali, Rwanda—where experts converged to discuss the future of HIV prevention—Dr. Gebregziabher expressed deep concern about the potential ramifications of decreased funding. He noted that, although he works with governmental institutions, his statements reflect his personal views.

PEPFAR’s Essential Role in the Global HIV Battle

Originally hailing from Africa, Dr. Gebregziabher emphasized PEPFAR’s crucial contribution to the global response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The recent UNAIDS report paints a staggering picture, revealing that in 2024 alone, PEPFAR facilitated HIV testing for an astonishing 84 million people and provided treatment for over 20.6 million.

The Risk of Losing Years of Progress

Dr. Gebregziabher warned that cuts in funding—stemming in part from policies enacted during the Trump administration—could reverse decades of progress. 'In the United States, nearly 1.2 million individuals live with HIV/AIDS, and shockingly, 13% of them are unaware of their status,' he highlighted, underscoring the urgent need for testing.

A Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Communities

HIV/AIDS continues to ravage communities, particularly affecting racial and ethnic minorities, as well as gay and bisexual individuals. Dr. Gebregziabher insists that the U.S. must lead the charge in combating this epidemic, particularly now, as global investments taper off.

Collaboration is Crucial, Now More Than Ever

He stressed that infectious diseases know no borders, making international collaboration imperative. As the U.S. withdraws support from organizations like the CDC and WHO, the risks skyrocket.

Hopeful Solutions Amidst the Challenges

Despite these daunting challenges, Dr. Gebregziabher remains optimistic. He sees potential in prevention tools like PrEP and believes that the global health community will unite to strive for ambitious targets, including the '95-95-95' goal—where 95% of those with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive treatment, and 95% of treated individuals achieve viral suppression.

A Call to Action for Global Health Leadership

However, he cautions that without stable U.S. leadership and consistent funding, both national and global HIV initiatives could lose their critical momentum. The time to act is now!