In 1981, the first known AIDS patient in Pittsburgh was examined by Charles Rinaldo, PhD, who was investigating opportunistic infections in his early scientific career. Following this encounter, David Lyter, Pitt medical student, approached Dr. Rinaldo and the two would lay down the foundation for the Pitt Men’s Study. Initially comprising approximately 70 gay men and lacking official funding, the study experienced a transformative moment in 1983 when it was awarded $4.2 million and recruited more than 1,000 men to participate. Little did they anticipate that the study would, in the words of Dr. Rinaldo, “define the natural history of what was just then being called AIDS.”

In recognition of the profound impact of the Pitt Men’s Study and in continuation of our commitment to advancing HIV research, the Division of Infectious Diseases is pleased to host a celebratory symposium on Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. in Starzl BST S100A. The symposium will serve as an opportunity to explore more deeply the legacy of the Pitt Men’s Study, reflecting upon its pivotal role in shaping our understanding of HIV, and avenues for further advancements in this critical field of study.

Special guest speakers include Elizabeth Barnett Pathak, PhD, FAHA, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), and, Mackey R. Friedman, PhD, MPH, Rutgers University, School of Public Health.

ID Division presenters will include Drs. Ho, Macatangay, Mellors, Rinaldo, and, from the Department of Medicine, Dr. Oliver Eickelberg, Executive Vice Chair for Academic Affairs.

Please join us on Thursday, September 26th at 4:00 p.m. in Starzl BST S100A. A Q&A session will follow the presentations and light refreshments will be served.

We look forward to seeing you there!