"Three breakthroughs in HIV medicine during the past decade have changed the outlook for HIV-positive people and hold the promise to end the epidemic. Together, these advances have bent the HIV arc downward, giving us more reasons to celebrate World AIDS Day," says Barry Zingman, MD, Medical Director of the AIDS Center at Montefiore.

For most people with HIV, the first breakthrough is a single daily pill that replaces the multiple prescriptions of the past. These powerful new medicines are also gentler on the body, allowing 95 percent of patients to live without significant side effects.

The second major breakthrough, U=U, stands for "undetectable equals untransmittable." When patients take their medicine daily, their viral load goes down to zero, making it undetectable. After six months, as long as they continue their medication, they cannot transmit the virus. This is life-changing for patients and may reduce the stigma surrounding HIV infection.

The third major breakthrough is PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis. Those at risk can practically eliminate their chance of HIV infection when taking PrEP. There is also PEP, post-exposure prophylaxis, which prevents infection when taken within 72 hours of exposure.

Montefiore, on the front lines of the AIDS epidemic since the 1980s, was the first medical center in New York State named a Center of Excellence in HIV Care thanks to our multidisciplinary, multispecialty services. Our Center for Positive Living is a model for AIDS care nationwide, and our new Oval Center focuses on the sexual health of people over 16 years old who identify as LGBTQIA+, including those who are HIV positive.

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Montefiore cut the ribbon on a new 3D Imaging and Advanced Visualization Lab that will provide more accurate diagnoses to improve surgical planning and precision. Traditional imaging like ultrasound, MRIs and CT scans provide 2D images, so radiologists and physicians often need to look at hundreds of cross-section images before deciding on a diagnosis and course of treatment. With 3D technology, all the cross-section slices are combined into a single 3D visual. The new lab will educate physicians throughout the system and country about the many benefits of 3D technology, including volume renderings, 3D segmentation and 3D printing. In addition, through virtual reality and simulation equipment, trainees can perform patient-specific simulations, allowing for hands-on training. 3D imaging is also much easier for patients to view and understand than more conventional 2D imaging. Nicole Wake, PhD, Director, 3D Imaging Lab, is available for consultations.

"We are excited about this unique lab that provides innovative visualization platforms for state-of-the-art patient care, cutting-edge research and novel educational opportunities," says Judy Yee, MD, FACR, Professor and Chair, Radiology, Montefiore and Einstein.

Montefiore's annual Thanksgiving turkey drive's goal of surpassing past years' donations was realized, as the Office of Government and Community Relations delivered hundreds of pounds of fresh sweet potatoes, collard greens, broccoli, kale and canned vegetables to Montefiore Medical Group's Food Pantry. The effort is part of the hospital-based volunteer program Project BRAVO, and the J.E. and Z.B. Butler Center for Children and Families, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, which provides services for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Montefiore also partnered with local social and nonprofit organizations to distribute 100 turkeys to families in the Norwood community surrounding the Moses Campus.