Bristol-Myers Squibb highlights emotional issues in HIV treatment

Bristol-Myers Squibb has called for more attention to be paid to the emotional needs of those suffering from HIV and Aids.

The biopharmaceutical company has published data from a survey which suggests that emotional barriers such as shame and fear are preventing many HIV-positive people from seeking medical care.

Other issues highlighted by the study include concerns about potential side effects of treatment, worries about cost or an overall lack of education about the realities of HIV care regimens.

According to Bristol-Myers Squibb, these problems are often underestimated or overlooked by healthcare providers, as is the way the issues vary among different patient groups.

Daniel Seekins, group director of HIV medical strategy at Bristol-Myers Squibb, said: “We hope that by understanding the perceived barriers to HIV care for both healthcare providers and patients, we can help address these treatment gaps.”

Last week, Bristol-Myers Squibb published its financial report for the second quarter of 2010, highlighting strong sales of HIV treatments such as Reyataz.