HIV Care Continuum from diagnosis in a Counseling and Testing Center

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The HIV care continuum is crucial for managing Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.
• Understanding sociodemographic and clinical factors influencing HIV care is essential for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the HIV care continuum from diagnosis at a Counseling and Testing Center (CTC).
• To examine sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics associated with gender in the HIV care pathway.
• To identify gaps in the HIV care cascade.

Main Methods:

• Epidemiological study utilizing data from individuals assisted at a CTC and outpatient HIV/AIDS clinics.
• Statistical analysis included Pearson's Chi-square test and binary logistic regression.
• Odds ratios were calculated with an alpha value <0.05.

Main Results:

• HIV prevalence was 5% among 5,229 users.
• Men aged 14-33 years old, not in domestic partnerships, had a higher chance of positive HIV results.
• 56.1% of 238 cases showed late diagnosis, with identified gaps in linkage, retention, and viral load suppression.

Conclusions:

• Late diagnosis of HIV/AIDS is prevalent in both genders.
• Achieving viral suppression remains a significant challenge in HIV/AIDS management.