The WHO presents a new roadmap to combat drug resistance, with the participation of IrsiCaixa researcher Roger Paredes

Dr. Roger Paredes, principal investigator at IrsiCaixa, head of the Infectious Diseases Service at the Germans Trias i Pujol Hospital and distinguished professor at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, has participated in the preparation of the document Integrated drug resistance action framework for HIV, hepatitis B and C and sexually transmitted infections, 2026–2030, recently published by the World Health Organization (WHO). This global framework for action proposes a unified strategy to address a growing challenge: drug resistance, which threatens to reverse decades of progress in the fight against HIV, viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

An integrated approach to protect the progress made

The WHO document proposes a coordinated and people-centred response that integrates specific and cross-cutting actions in five key areas: prevention and response, surveillance, research and innovation, laboratory capacity and governance. This new strategy is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and withthe WHO's global health strategies.

The guide reinforces the importance of ensuring access to quality, equitable and stigma-free services, promoting responsible use of antimicrobials to preserve the efficacy of current treatments. It also focuses on strategic coordination between governments, communities, researchers and global alliances to consolidate more robust health systems.

A shared goal: to prevent the emergence of new resistances

The main objective of the document is clear: to prevent the emergence and spread of drug resistance to ensure that the eradication of HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and other STIs as public health threats remains achievable by 2030.

The participation of experts such as Roger Paredes reinforces IrsiCaixa's role in the development of global strategies to address emerging health challenges and contribute to international public health.