Differences between migrants and Spanish-born population through the HIV care cascade, Catalonia: an analysis using...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Migrants are a key population at risk for HIV infection.
• Understanding HIV care cascade differences between migrants and native populations is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the HIV care cascade between migrant and Spanish-born populations in Catalonia, Spain.
• To identify barriers to HIV testing and treatment among migrant populations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 9829 new HIV diagnoses in Catalonia (2001-2013).
• Comparison of demographic, risk factors, and care cascade indicators between migrant and Spanish-born individuals.
• Analysis of regional differences in outcomes for migrant populations.

Main Results:

• Migrants represented an increasing proportion of new HIV diagnoses (24% in 2001 to 41% in 2013).
• Migrants were younger, had more women, and a higher proportion of late diagnoses (especially from sub-Saharan Africa).
• Migrants showed lower proportions on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and viral suppression compared to Spanish-born individuals.

Conclusions:

• Migrants face significant barriers to HIV testing and care, leading to lower ART initiation and viral suppression rates.
• Interventions should address specific barriers faced by migrants, considering diverse regional origins.
• Addressing these disparities is essential for improving HIV health equity in migrant populations.