Funding Being Made Available for Improvement of Combined Substance Abuse Treatment and HIV/AIDS Services in Minority Communities
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) Center for Substance Abuse Treatment is seeking applications for 65 grants to be used for the enhancement and expansion of substance abuse services offered alongside HIV/AIDS services in African-American, Hispanic, and other racial ethnic communities.
These grants are expected to provide approximately $500,000 per year for treatment services and $400,000 for outreach and pretreatment services for up to 5 years. Only domestic, nonprofit organizations are eligible, and all awards are subject to the availability of funds.
The application deadline is February 28, 2007.
Visit SAMHSA's Web site for more information on how to apply.
New Dermal Filler Approved to Treat Facial Lipoatrophy
One common side effect of anti-HIV medications is the loss of fat from the face, known as facial lipoatrophy. The effects of facial lipoatrophy are particularly evident around the eyes, temples, and cheeks, which may appear sunken. Radiesse, a state-of-the-art dermal filler, was approved by the FDA on December 22, 2006, for the treatment of facial lipoatrophy. Dermal fillers are injected or surgically inserted under the skin to bulk up areas where fat has been lost.
Radiesse is a water-based solution that contains small particles made of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), a material that is a main component of bones and teeth. When injected, the CaHA particles add bulk by filling space in the soft tissue, providing a structure for tissue growth, and possibly by promoting new collagen binding.
This is especially good news for people suffering from facial lipoatrophy, because Radiesse has been approved by the FDA for long-term use. While Radiesse is only a cosmetic treatment for this condition, it is a substantial step forward in thwarting an unwanted side effect of antiretroviral medication that can result in stigmatization, depression, and ultimately adherence problems.
