University of Miami to host HIV symposium

Dozens of HIV researchers and health professionals will assemble at the University of Miami Coral Gables Campus for the annual HIV symposium, “Science Driving Strategy: Ending the HIV Epidemic,” on Feb. 9.

The much-anticipated seminar will feature a full day of guest speakers from the University of Miami, sectors of the health care industry, and from higher education—who are all striving to prevent the spread of HIV in the United States through basic and clinical research, continued care, and treatments.

“In some way, I think the COVID-19 pandemic has overshadowed the existing HIV epidemic, which is still a prevalent and potentially severe problem in the U.S.,” said Dr. Steven Safren, director of the Center for HIV and Research in Mental Health (CHARM) at the University of Miami. “During the symposium, the medical and academic community can contribute to solutions so that we can come closer to the U.S. goals to ultimately end the HIV epidemic. Although antiretroviral therapy does work for prevention and treatment, there are many issues for access, uptake, and persistence related to structural problems and mental health.”

Dr. Henri Ford, dean of the Miller School of Medicine, will deliver the keynote address before welcoming a group of well-known HIV researchers and guest speakers. They will be presenting on an array of topics related to basic science and HIV prevention, care, and treatment—both locally and nationally.

“The beauty of this symposium is the coming together of basic and clinical scientists and experts in HIV prevention, intermingling with junior investigators who are going to be the leaders of tomorrow,” said Dr. Savita Pahwa, director of the Miami Center for AIDS Research.

The annual HIV conference is hosted by the Miller School of Medicine, Miami Center for AIDS Research, the HIV/AIDS and Emerging Infectious Diseases Institute, and CHARM.