ELTON JOHN - ELTON JOHN: MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE TO STOP AIDS WINNING

ELTON JOHN: MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE TO STOP AIDS WINNING

Famed singer Sir ELTON JOHN has spoken out in praise of the efforts of biotechnology leaders in developing treatments for HIV and Aids, but stated that more work is needed.

Speaking at the 2009 BIO International Convention in Atlanta, the I WANT LOVE, WRITTEN IN THE STARS and ARE YOU READY FOR LOVE hit-maker emphasised that more needs to be done to rid the world of the condition.

He told the 3,000-strong audience that he has watched 60 close friends die of Aids, including fellow musician FREDDIE MERCURY.

"Despite our many advances, and despite your laudable work, HIV/Aids is still winning," said Sir Elton.

"It continues to devastate populations in the developing world. But the epidemic is also worse than we thought in this very city, and in this very country."

The musician has long-supported HIV prevention programmes, establishing the Elton John Aids Foundation in the US in 1992 and a UK branch the following year.

Together the two charities have raised over $150 million to support prevention programmes and eliminate the stigma associated with the disease in 55 nations worldwide.

Sir Elton said that he was inspired to set up the organisations in part through guilt about not doing more to raise awareness of Aids in the 1980s.

"I should have done more," he said. "I did not. I am ashamed."

Other celebs lending their support to the fight against Aids are DITA VON TEESE, ESTELLE and KATY PERRY who are among the famous faces collaborating on a special collection with H&M to help raise funds for Designers Against Aids as part of Fashion Against Aids.

The stars designed their own pieces for the collection, with Perry opting for a body-suit featuring a smiley face and Von Teese creating a white t-shirt with a woman's face on.