A healthy life leads to a prosperous nation. To build a healthier world for everyone, we must address dynamic challenges with innovative solutions. Gilead Sciences is committed to enhancing well-being through novel approaches in medicine. From leading advancements in virology to expanding into oncology, Gilead is turning once-unimaginable innovations into reality. MedEdge MEA had the privilege of speaking with Vitor Papao, General Manager of Gilead Sciences in the Middle East, about their bold ambitions and transformative impact.
MedEdge MEA: Can you elaborate on Gilead Sciences’ strategic initiatives in the Middle East to address viral hepatitis?
Vitor Papao: Gilead Sciences is deeply committed to Virology, with more than 35 years of history in working towards eradicating viral hepatitis. Our mission is to combine scientific innovation with community partnerships and public health advocacy across all regions, including the Middle East.
According to the latest figures from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 3,500 people die from hepatitis viruses each day, and the global toll is rising. The Middle East bears a significant burden, with approximately 12 million people chronically infected with Hepatitis C (HCV). Despite significant advances in HCV treatment, the disease burden remains substantial.
Since 2013, Gilead delivered four curative treatments for Hepatitis C (HCV). In our commitment towards achieving the World Health Organization’s (WHO) goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030, Gilead joined efforts with healthcare authorities to eliminate Hepatitis C by 2030 through the ‘Ready to be Cured’ campaign in UAE, KSA and Kuwait. We are also going beyond medicine to help address the disparities impacting people living with hepatitis. The “MA’AK Patient Assistance Program” (in UAE) aims to support access to Gilead HCV medicines for patients facing affordability barriers.
ME: Can you discuss Gilead Sciences’ key strategies and programs in the Middle East for tackling HIV?
VP: On the HIV front, Gilead has brought 11 antiretroviral therapies (ART) to market and continues to advance a robust pipeline of next-generation treatment options. Our dedication to the Middle East is reflected in our efforts to ensure access to innovative HIV therapies and prevention strategies across the region.
HIV prevalence in the Middle East is relatively low compared to other regions, the incidence of new infections is on the rise. Research by UNAIDS indicates a 54% increase in new HIV infections from 2010 to 2022. This growing incidence highlights an urgent need for enhanced prevention, testing, and treatment initiatives to address the escalating challenge.
Therefore, in addition to treatment advancements, we’re also committed to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and the general population. We host an annual Middle East HIV Summit, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss the latest developments and innovations in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The recent 8th edition of the summit introduced Gilead’s “Power of Five” strategy, a comprehensive approach to HIV treatment selection. Initiatives such as the HIV STAR (Suspect, Test, Advise, Refer) program launched in collaboration with regional stakeholders in KSA, UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar also aim to increase awareness among healthcare providers. Deploying technological advances and digital tools play a crucial role in our efforts, facilitating education and engagement. For example, the “Ana Faisal” campaign, launched in partnership with the Saudi Society of Infectious Diseases (SSMMID), deployed AI technology to address HIV stigma and encourage testing.
ME: How is Gilead Sciences using AI and machine learning to advance drug discovery and development?
VP: Pharmaceutical companies are under immense pressure to innovate and rapidly deliver new therapies for life-threatening diseases. Drug development typically spans over a decade, costs billions, and has a 90% failure rate before reaching the market. To navigate these complex challenges, companies must be agile, innovative, and adaptive to stay ahead.
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Advancements in technology, particularly in AI, offer transformative potential for drug discovery. By accelerating the identification and design of novel compounds and optimizing therapeutic development processes, AI can help streamline the drug development pipeline. This technology not only enhances efficiency but also shortens cycle times by automating manual and redundant processes related to regulatory submissions, market access, and commercialization. As a result, pharmaceutical companies can bring new therapies to market faster and more effectively, addressing critical patient needs with greater speed and precision.
Gilead is expanding the use of AI, machine learning, deep learning, and analytics as an enterprise-wide capability, transforming complex data into valuable insights, and uncovering hidden relationships among molecules, targets, and diseases.
As a global life sciences organization handling sensitive patient data, Gilead implements a comprehensive data governance model. This model combines centralized standards with federated domain ownership, allowing us to adapt swiftly to changes and achieve sustainable growth while protecting sensitive patient information.
‘On the HIV front, Gilead has brought 11 antiretroviral therapies (ART) to market and continues to advance a robust pipeline of next-generation treatment options.’
Vitor Papao, General Manager of Gilead Sciences, Middle East
ME: What are Gilead Sciences’ plans for expanding in the Middle East, especially in R&D?
VP: At Gilead, our commitment to the Middle East goes beyond providing innovative medicines; it’s about making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and supporting the healthcare systems that serve them. We are deeply invested in addressing the specific needs of the region and are dedicated to working hand-in-hand with health authorities and healthcare professionals to deliver the best possible care. Our approach is collaborative, engaging with various stakeholders to advance public health goals and enhance outcomes.
