Background Community-based ART service delivery brings HIV care closer to clinically stable clients and may improve outcomes while reducing burdens on patients and health facilities. However, evidence from low income setting remains limited. Methods Institution based retrospective follow-up study was conducted from 422 adult ART users selected by simple random sampling. Data were analyzed using STATA 15. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression identified predictors of treatment outcomes. Results The cumulative incidence of good ART treatment outcome was 81.99% (95% CI: 77.98–85.54%). Median survival time was 11 months (IQR: 5–12). Missing ART doses reduced survival by 54% (AHR=0.46; 95% CI: 0.22–0.95). Good retention in care (AHR=1.58), tuberculosis prophylaxis (AHR=1.38), and adequate drug supply (AHR=1.39) significantly improved survival. Conclusion Treatment outcomes were suboptimal. Strengthening retention, tuberculosis prophylaxis, drug supply, and adherence support could improve survival.
Tadewos Kassaw Tarekegn, Hailemarriam Mekonnen, Birhanu Melaku et al.· Journal of the International...· 0 citations
Background HIV testing is essential for early diagnosis, treatment initiation, and achieving UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. However, disparities in uptake remain in sub-Saharan Africa, including Malawi. Methods A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using the 2024 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey data. A total of 21,587 individuals aged 15–49 years were included. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression was used to identify individual- and community-level factors associated with HIV testing uptake. Results The prevalence of HIV testing was 86.1%. Higher odds of HIV testing were observed among females, older age groups, individuals with higher education, richer households, married respondents, and those from the southern region. Significant community-level variation in HIV testing uptake was also identified. Conclusion Although HIV testing uptake is high in Malawi, important sociodemographic and regional disparities persist. Targeted interventions are needed to improve equitable access to HIV testing services.
A. S. Asgai, Desalegn Mitiku Kidie, T. K. Derse et al.· Journal of the International...· 0 citations