Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation

The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing pediatric HIV infection and eliminating pediatric AIDS through research, advocacy, and prevention and treatment programs. The foundation was established in 1988 by Elizabeth Glaser, along with her friends Susan DeLaurentis and Susie Zeegen, after Glaser contracted HIV through a blood transfusion and unknowingly passed it on to her children.

History

The foundation was created in response to the lack of research and treatment options available for children with HIV/AIDS. Elizabeth Glaser's personal experience with the disease and her determination to find a cure for her children led to the establishment of the foundation. Since its inception, EGPAF has become a leading organization in the fight against pediatric HIV/AIDS.

Mission and Goals

EGPAF's mission is to end pediatric HIV/AIDS through innovative research, advocacy, and global programs. The foundation focuses on:

• Preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV
• Expanding access to HIV care and treatment for children and families
• Conducting research to improve pediatric HIV/AIDS care and treatment
• Advocating for policies that support the elimination of pediatric HIV/AIDS

Programs and Initiatives

EGPAF operates in several countries around the world, providing comprehensive HIV prevention, care, and treatment services. Some of the key programs and initiatives include:

• **Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT)**: EGPAF works to ensure that pregnant women living with HIV receive the necessary treatment to prevent the transmission of the virus to their babies.
• **HIV Care and Treatment**: The foundation provides access to life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for children and families affected by HIV.
• **Research**: EGPAF conducts and supports research to develop new and improved methods for preventing and treating pediatric HIV/AIDS.
• **Advocacy**: The foundation advocates for policies and funding that support the elimination of pediatric HIV/AIDS at the local, national, and international levels.

Impact

Since its founding, EGPAF has made significant strides in the fight against pediatric HIV/AIDS. The foundation has helped to reduce the number of new HIV infections among children and has improved the quality of life for those living with the virus. EGPAF's efforts have contributed to the global progress towards the elimination of pediatric HIV/AIDS.

See Also

• HIV/AIDS
• Elizabeth Glaser
• Non-profit organization
• Antiretroviral therapy
• Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV