Doctor Flavia Matovu Kiweewa made medical history when she led Uganda's part of a major HIV prevention study. The scientist ran the PURPOSE 1 trial that tested a new drug called lenacapavir on young women across Uganda and South Africa. Her team worked at the research site linking Makerere University with Johns Hopkins University in Kampala. Uganda became one of just two African nations picked for this important health study. The breakthrough drug only needs one injection every six months to stop HIV infections.
Results from the trial shocked medical experts around the world. Zero women who received lenacapavir caught HIV during the entire study period. Doctor Matovu called the findings incredible and said the research helps African women protect their futures. The medicine could change how doctors prevent HIV in areas where many people carry the virus. Her leadership proved that African scientists can run cutting-edge medical research.
Doctor Matovu brings more than twenty years of experience studying HIV prevention methods for women. She previously worked on HIV vaccines and vaginal rings that release protective medicine. The researcher continues fighting for fair access to new HIV prevention tools across Africa. Uganda currently has over 1.5 million people living with HIV. Young women face the highest risk of catching the virus in many African communities.
Results from the trial shocked medical experts around the world. Zero women who received lenacapavir caught HIV during the entire study period. Doctor Matovu called the findings incredible and said the research helps African women protect their futures. The medicine could change how doctors prevent HIV in areas where many people carry the virus. Her leadership proved that African scientists can run cutting-edge medical research.
Doctor Matovu brings more than twenty years of experience studying HIV prevention methods for women. She previously worked on HIV vaccines and vaginal rings that release protective medicine. The researcher continues fighting for fair access to new HIV prevention tools across Africa. Uganda currently has over 1.5 million people living with HIV. Young women face the highest risk of catching the virus in many African communities.
