BMS joins forces with National Aids Fund

Bristol-Myers Squibb has joined forces with the National Aids Fund (NAF) to launch the fourth annual ‘Light to Unite’ campaign in support of World Aids Day.

Light to Unite encourages individuals to get more closely involved with the fight against the disease by sharing knowledge and experiences as well as raising funds to benefit grassroots HIV/Aids organisations throughout the US.

The focal point of the campaign occurs on its web site www.lighttounite.org where each individual can ‘shine a light’ by lighting a virtual candle as well as learning about people’s experiences with the disease and giving donations to the NAF.

Anthony Hopper, president of US Pharmaceuticals at BMS, illustrated that through Light to Unite, the company was encouraging everyone to make a difference to the lives of people with the disease.

“Our collaboration with the National Aids Fund helps ensure that the communities hardest hit by the HIV/Aids epidemic receive critical patient services and support.”

BMS has also made a $250,000 (120,000 pounds) contribution to the NAF which will be distributed through grants to support organisations providing treatment and care to HIV/Aids patients.

This week, BMS and Pierre Fabre Medicament have given an update of the development status of vinflunine, with the companies opting to terminate their licensing agreement for the development of the compound.