Behavioural interventions for HIV positive prevention in developing countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Global Health
• HIV/AIDS Research

Background:

• Positive prevention interventions are crucial for managing HIV in developing countries.
• Understanding differential intervention effects in HIV-positive versus HIV-negative populations is vital.
• Targeted strategies for people living with HIV (PLHIV) require assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if positive prevention interventions differ in effect between HIV-infected and uninfected individuals in developing countries.
• To determine the effectiveness of interventions specifically designed for PLHIV.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of behavioral positive prevention interventions.
• Studies published between January 1990 and December 2006 were included.
• Random effects models were used to calculate pooled effect sizes.

Main Results:

• Behavioral interventions showed a greater impact on condom use in HIV-positive individuals (OR: 3.61) compared to HIV-negative individuals (OR: 1.32).
• Interventions targeting PLHIV demonstrated a significant positive effect on condom use (OR: 7.84), especially in HIV-serodiscordant couples (OR: 67.38).
• Included interventions were primarily HIV counseling and testing, with limited scope and target populations.

Conclusions:

• Interventions for PLHIV in developing countries enhance condom use, particularly in serodiscordant couples.
• There is a need for comprehensive positive prevention interventions addressing diverse populations and modalities.
• Such interventions are essential for PLHIV health, HIV transmission prevention, and empowerment.