Emcure Pharmaceuticals, a leading Indian pharmaceutical company, has been felicitated for its contributions to HIV/AIDS research and development at the HIV Congress 2023, organised by the HIV Welfare Society. This recognition highlights the crucial role played by the Indian pharmaceutical industry in the global fight against HIV/AIDS and the importance of continued investment in research and development to develop better treatments and a cure for the disease. The Merit Award acknowledges the firm’s immense contribution in the field of HIV/AIDS to improve the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS.
Anil Kothiyal, President – India Business, Emcure Pharmaceuticals, received the Merit Award in Mumbai from Dr. Jürgen Rockstroh, Professor of Medicine and Head of the HIV Outpatient Clinic at the University of Bonn, Germany.
Emcure has been at the forefront of HIV treatment and awareness for almost two decades. The company has been actively involved in the development and supply of antiretroviral drugs, which are essential for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. In 2006, Emcure became the first company in India to launch the novel molecule Atazanavir, which revolutionized HIV treatment in the country. Since then, Emcure has continued to lead the way in HIV treatment, being the first to bring the WHO-recommended Dolutegravir based therapy to India and launching many other molecules and fixed-dose combinations for the first time in the country.
The company is also actively involved in public awareness and social activities related to HIV therapy, partnering with NGOs like the Network of Maharashtra People Living with HIV (NMP+) and Treatment, Adherence, Advocacy and Literacy (TAAL) Pharmacy. Emcure conducts Continuous Medical Education (CME) activities and webinars to keep the medical fraternity updated on HIV prevention, diagnosis, management, and newer formulations. Additionally, Emcure conducts occasional public awareness programs to reduce stigma and discrimination related to HIV in society.
The HIV Congress is an annual event organized by the HIV Welfare Society that brings together leading experts, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders to discuss the latest trends and developments in HIV prevention and treatment. The HIV Congress also recognizes organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of HIV prevention and treatment.
HIV/AIDS continues to be a major health challenge worldwide due to its high prevalence, high mortality rate, and disproportionate impact on key populations, as well as limited access to prevention, testing, and treatment. According to data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2021, globally 38.4 million people suffered from HIV, of which 36.7 million were adults and 1.7 million were children. HIV-related illnesses also accounted for nearly 6,50,000 deaths in 2021.
Emcure’s contributions have not been limited to India, as it supplies anti-retroviral drugs to other countries. The company’s efforts towards making these life-saving drugs accessible to patients in need have been instrumental in improving the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS.
