• Providing high quality medication to people living with HIV/AIDS in Cuba

Published 02 February 2007

  • Salastiel


    "My name is Salastiel. I was a blood donor and they detected the HIV virus in my blood in 1994, but I did not undergo any sort of treatment and did not suffer from any of the symptoms associated with HIV..."

    Transcript

  • Salastiel,  AIDS patientUntil 1993, people living with HIV/AIDS in Cuba had little or no access to drugs, and would be forcefully isolated from the rest of society.

    Today 100% of all Cubans in need of treatment freely receive the highest quality care and medication. These people, numbering over 2180, also receive food and other types of care through a programme administered by the United Nations Development Programme and supported by the Global Fund. Selastiel, a beneficiary living with HIV for the past 12 years recounts his earlier experiences and explains why he now lives a healthier and happier life.

    "It is called the 'Millionaire's Therapy' since it is very expensive. I have been able to live longer, my appetite has increased and I’m in very high spirits."

    --Salastiel, AIDS patient

Related Stories

Castro leads anti-stigma movement

Read Story

Cenesex. Prevention takes center stage

Read Story

A second chance when the drugs don't work

Read Story