Realizing the potential of routine viral load testing in sub-Saharan Africa

Virological Suppression and its Predictors Among HIV/AIDS Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy in Ethiopia: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

Achieving viral load suppression is crucial for the prevention of complications and deaths related to HIV infection. Ethiopia has embraced the worldwide 95-95-95 target, but there is no national representative information regarding virological suppression. Therefore, this review aims to determine the pooled virological suppression rate and identify the pooled effect of contributing factors of viral suppression for HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy in Ethiopia.

Methods

We systematically searched websites and databases, including online repositories, to obtain primary studies. Two reviewers assessed the quality of the included articles using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale appraisal checklist. Publication bias was checked using Egger's regression test, the heterogeneity of the studies was assessed using I2 statistics and Q statistics, and a sensitivity analysis was performed to identify any outlier results in the included studies. The Der Simonian Laird random-effects model was used to estimate the overall proportion of viral suppression, and STATA 17 statistical software was used for all types of analysis.

Results

A total of 21 eligible articles primarily conducted in Ethiopia using HIV program data were used for this quantitative synthesis. The overall pooled virological suppression rate was 71% (95% CI, 64%-77%). The pooled effects of poor adherence to ART (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.33; 95% CI, 0.28-0.40), body mass index (18.5-24.9 kg/m2; AOR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.37-2.36), disclosure (AOR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.05-1.89), absence of opportunistic infection (AOR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.43-1.97), and high baseline viral load count (AOR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.52-0.81) were identified as significant predictors of viral suppression.

Conclusions

The overall pooled percentage of virological suppression was low compared with the global target of viral suppression and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute report. Poor adherence, normal body mass index, disclosure, absence of opportunistic infection, and high baseline viral load count were factors contributing to viral suppression in Ethiopia. Responsible stakeholders should maximize their efforts to achieve the global target of virological suppression by addressing significant predictors.

Assessment of the effect of pre-conception care on preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Nyeri County

Introduction

the provision of essential preconception care services for HIV-positive pregnant women is crucial to prevent HIV transmission to infants. This includes pregnancy intention screening services, adequate viral load monitoring and suppression before conception, and necessary nutritional support. In Nyeri County, the prevalence of Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV is 5.3%, which is higher than the global threshold of 5%. This study aims to evaluate the impact of pre-conception care services in preventing HIV transmission to infants in Nyeri County. The study objectives are to assess the utilization of pre-conception care services among HIV-positive women, specifically focusing on pregnancy intention screening, viral load monitoring and suppression, and access to nutritional assessment services before pregnancy. Additionally, the study aims to investigate the relationship between the provision of pre-conception care services and infant HIV outcomes.

Methods

this cross-sectional retrospective descriptive study employed stratified sampling to select eight level 4 and level 5 hospitals in Nyeri County. The target population consisted of HIV-infected women seeking postnatal care in these facilities, with a sample size of 252 women who had HIV-exposed infants under two years old and were receiving post-natal care at the respective hospitals. Sociodemographic characteristics, including age, marital status, and education level, were collected. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results

our findings revealed that only 34.2% of HIV-positive women seeking postnatal care had received information or services related to pregnancy intention screening, a crucial aspect of pre-conception care. Almost half (46.4%) of the women who participated in the study had undergone viral load measurements before pregnancy, which is another critical component of preconception care. Additionally, 85.6% of these women had received nutritional services during pregnancy from their healthcare providers. Interestingly, all women who received any pre-conception care services reported that their infants were alive and tested HIV-negative.

Conclusion

preconception care is crucial in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Efforts should be made to ensure that all HIV-infected women planning to conceive have access to preconception care services.

"They test my blood to know how much blood is in my body": the untapped potential of promoting viral load literacy to support adherence and viral suppression among adolescents living with HIV

INTRODUCTION

Achieving sustained HIV viral suppression is a key strategy to optimize the health and wellbeing of those living with HIV. Sub-optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) in Southern Africa, due to a range of social and contextual factors, including poor mental health, has presented a substantial challenge to meeting targets aimed towards improving treatment outcomes and reducing transmission. With the increasing availability of viral load (VL) testing in Southern Africa, there is an opportunity to better understand the relationship between VL literacy, wellbeing and adherence among adolescents.

METHODS

We conducted qualitative interviews with 45 AYPLHIV aged 10-24 years in three districts (urban, peri-urban and rural) in Zimbabwe between March and August 2021. The sample was purposively selected to represent a range of experiences related to HIV status disclosure, gender, marital status and treatment experience. Separate workshops were conducted with 18 healthcare workers (HCWs) and 20 caregivers to better understand existing support mechanisms to AYPLHIV accessing ART. We used thematic analysis to examine adolescent VL literacy, treatment support networks, experiences of clinic interactions, VL testing procedures and barriers to adherence.

RESULTS

VL literacy was consistently under-developed among participants. Comprehension of phrases commonly heard during clinic visits, such as TND (target not detected) and "high" and "low" VL, were better understood by older participants. VL testing was predominantly understood as a clinical procedure that enables HCWs to monitor treatment adherence. Absent throughout the interviews were descriptions of how viral suppression improves health and quality of life, likely fosters wellbeing and enhances self-esteem, enables participation in education and social activities, and eliminates the risk of onward transmission.

CONCLUSIONS

It is imperative that we reconsider how routine VL monitoring is communicated to and understood by AYPLHIV. Reframing ART, including VL test results, in terms of the psychosocial benefits that viral suppression can generate is likely to be crucial to motivating AYPLHIV to maintain optimal treatment engagement and develop self-management approaches as they move into adulthood. Access to accurate information tailored to individual concerns and circumstances can support AYPLHIV to achieve wellbeing.

Incidence, survival time and associated factors of virological failure among adult HIV/AIDS patients on first line antiretroviral therapy in St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College-A retrospective cohort study

Introduction

Human Immune deficiency Virus or Acquired Immune deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is a pandemic affecting millions around the world. The 2020 the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS report stated that the estimated number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) is 38 million globally by 2019. Ethiopia is among HIV high burden countries in Africa. By 2021, PLHIV in Ethiopia is estimated to be 754, 256. Globally out of 25.4 million PLHIV on ART, 41% reported virally non-suppressed. According to UNAIDS, the estimated viral non-suppression in Ethiopia is about 27%.

Methodology

A hospital based retrospective cohort study was conducted among 323 patients who were enrolled to ART from July 2016 to December 2020. The medical records of study participants were selected using simple random sampling technique & data was collected using data extraction checklist. The collected data was entered and cleaned using SPSS V.25. Kaplan–Meier is used to estimate the cumulative hazard of virological failure at different time points. During bivariate analysis variables with p<0.25 were taken for Multivariate Cox regression analysis to assess predictors of virological failure & statistically significant association was declared at p<0.05 with 95% confidence interval.

Result

The overall incidence rate of virological failure was 1.75 per 1000 months of observations. The mean survival time of virological failure was 14.80 months. Disclosure of sero-status (AHR = 0.038, 95% CI: 0.008–018), poor adherence (AHR = 4.24, 95% CI: 1.04–16), having OIs (Opportunistic infections) (AHR = 4.59, 95% CI: 1.17–18) and use of cotrimoxazole (CPT) prophylaxis (AHR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.026–0.68) have shown statistically significant association with virological failure.

Conclusion

The incidence of virological failure among patients on first line ART in St. Paul’s hospital is low. Disclosure of sero-status, poor adherence, having OIs and use of CPT prophylaxis were associated with virological failure. Therefore, a due attention needs to be given to these factors in order to minimize virological failure in patients on ART.

Virological failure and treatment switch after ART initiation among people living with HIV with and without routine viral load monitoring in Asia

Introduction

Viral load (VL) testing is still challenging to monitor treatment responses of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV treatment programme in Asia. We assessed the association between routine VL testing and virological failure (VF) and determine factors associated with switching to second‐line regimen.

Methods

Among 21 sites from the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD), people living with HIV (PLHIV) aged ≥18 years initiating ART from 2003 to 2021 were included. We calculated the average number of VL tests per patient per year between the date of ART initiation and the most recent visit. If the median average number of VL tests was ≥ 0.80 per patient per year, the site was classified as a routine VL site. A site with a median < 0.80 was classified into the non‐routine VL sites. VF was defined as VL ≥1000 copies/ml during first‐line therapy. Factors associated with VF were analysed using generalized estimating equations with Poisson distribution.

Results

Of 6277 PLHIV starting ART after 2003, 3030 (48%) were from 11 routine VL testing sites and 3247 (52%) were from 10 non‐routine VL testing sites. The median follow‐up was 9 years (IQR 5–13). The median age was 35 (30–42) years; 68% were male and 5729 (91%) started non‐nucleoside reverse‐transcriptase inhibitor‐based regimen. The median pre‐ART CD4 count in PLHIV from routine VL sites was lower compared to non‐routine VL sites (144 vs. 156 cells/mm³, p <0.001). Overall, 1021 subsequent VF at a rate of 2.15 (95% CI 2.02–2.29) per 100 person‐years (PY). VF was more frequent at non‐routine VL sites (adjusted incidence rate ratio 2.85 [95% CI 2.27–3.59]) compared to routine VL sites. Other factors associated with an increased rate of VF were age <50 years and CD4 count <350 cells/mm³. A total of 817 (13%) patients switched to second‐line regimen at a rate of 1.44 (95% CI 1.35–1.54) per 100 PY. PLHIV at routine VL monitoring sites were at higher risk of switching than those at non‐routine VL sites (adjusted sub‐hazard ratio 1.78 95% CI [1.17–2.71]).

Conclusions

PLHIV from non‐routine VL sites had a higher incidence of persistent VF and a low switching regimen rate, reflecting possible under‐utilized VL testing.

Virological outcomes and risk factors for non-suppression for routine and repeat viral load testing after enhanced adherence counselling during viral load testing scale-up in Zimbabwe: analytic cross-sectional study using laboratory data from 2014 to 2018

BACKGROUND

Since the scale-up of routine viral load (VL) testing started in 2016, there is limited evidence on VL suppression rates under programmatic settings and groups at risk of non-suppression. We conducted a study to estimate VL non-suppression (> 1000 copies/ml) and its risk factors using "routine" and "repeat after enhanced adherence counselling (EAC)" VL results.

METHODS

We conducted an analytic cross-sectional study using secondary VL testing data collected between 2014 and 2018 from a centrally located laboratory. We analysed data from routine tests and repeat tests after an individual received EAC. Our outcome was viral load non-suppression. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with having VL non-suppression for routine and repeat VL.

RESULTS

We analysed 103,609 VL test results (101,725 routine and 1884 repeat test results) collected from the country's ten provinces. Of the 101,725 routine and 1884 repeat VL tests, 13.8% and 52.9% were non-suppressed, respectively. Only one in seven (1:7) of the non-suppressed routine VL tests had a repeat test after EAC. For routine VL tests; males (vs females, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.19, [95% CI 1.14-1.24]) and adolescents (10-19 years) (vs adults (25-49 years), aOR = 3.11, [95% CI 2.9-3.31]) were more at risk of VL non-suppression. The patients who received care at the secondary level (vs primary, aOR = 1.21, [95% CI 1.17-1.26]) and tertiary level (vs primary, aOR = 1.63, [95% CI 1.44-1.85]) had a higher risk of VL non-suppression compared to the primary level. Those that started ART in 2014-2015 (vs < 2010, aOR = 0.83, [95% CI 0.79-0.88]) and from 2016 onwards (vs < 2010, aOR = 0.84, [95% CI 0.79-0.89]) had a lower risk of VL non-suppression. For repeat VL tests; young adults (20-24 years) (vs adults (25-49 years), (aOR) = 3.48, [95% CI 2.16 -5.83]), adolescents (10-19 years) (vs adults (25-49 years), aOR = 2.76, [95% CI 2.11-3.72]) and children (0-9 years) (vs adults (25-49 years), aOR = 1.51, [95% CI 1.03-2.22]) were at risk of VL non-suppression.

CONCLUSION

Close to 90% suppression in routine VL shows that Zimbabwe is on track to reach the third UNAIDS target. Strategies to improve the identification of clients with high routine VL results for repeating testing after EAC and ART adherence in subpopulations (men, adolescents and young adolescents) at risk of viral non-suppression should be prioritised.

Assessment of a viral load result-triggered automated differentiated service delivery model for people taking ART in Lesotho (the VITAL study): Study protocol of a cluster-randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

To sustainably provide good quality care to increasing numbers of people living with HIV (PLHIV) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in resource-limited settings, care delivery must shift from a "one-size-fits-all" approach to differentiated service delivery models. Such models should reallocate resources from PLHIV who are doing well to groups of PLHIV who may need more attention, such as those with treatment failure. The VIral load Triggered ART care Lesotho (VITAL) trial assesses a viral load (VL)-, participant's preference-informed, electronic health (eHealth)-supported, automated differentiated service delivery model (VITAL model). With VITAL, we aim to assess if the VITAL model is at least non-inferior to the standard of care in the proportion of participants engaged in care with viral suppression at 24 months follow-up and if it is cost-saving.

METHODS

The VITAL trial is a pragmatic, multicenter, cluster-randomized, non-blinded, non-inferiority trial with 1:1 allocation conducted at 18 nurse-led, rural health facilities in two districts of northern Lesotho, enrolling adult PLHIV taking ART. In intervention clinics, providers are trained to implement the VITAL model and are guided by a clinical decision support tool, the VITALapp. VITAL differentiates care according to VL results, clinical characteristics, sub-population and participants' and health care providers' preferences.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

Evidence on the effect of differentiated service delivery for PLHIV on treatment outcomes is still limited. This pragmatic cluster-randomized trial will assess if the VITAL model is at least non-inferior to the standard of care and if it is cost saving.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study has been registered with clinicaltrials.gov (Registration number NCT04527874; August 27, 2020).

The Suboptimal Pediatric HIV Viral Load Cascade: Multidistrict Cohort Study Among Children Taking Antiretroviral Therapy in Lesotho, Southern Africa

BACKGROUND

Children living with HIV and taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) are a priority group for routine viral load (VL) monitoring. As per Lesotho guidelines, a VL ≥1000 copies/mL ("unsuppressed") should trigger adherence counseling and a follow-up VL; 2 consecutive unsuppressed VLs ("virologic failure") qualify for switching to second-line ART, with some exceptions. Here, we describe the pediatric VL cascade in Lesotho.

METHODS

In a prospective open cohort study comprising routine VL results from 22 clinics in Lesotho, we assessed outcomes along the VL cascade for children who had at least 1 VL test from January 2016 through June 2020. Data were censored on February 10, 2021.

RESULTS

In total, 1215 children received 5443 VL tests. The median age was 10 years (interquartile range 7-13) and 627/1215 (52%) were female; 362/1215 (30%) had at least 1 unsuppressed VL. A follow-up VL was available for 325/362 (90%), although only for 159/362 (44%) within 6 months of the first unsuppressed VL. Of those with a follow-up VL, 172/329 (53%) had virologic failure and 123/329 (37%) qualified for switching to second-line ART. Of these, 55/123 (45%) were ever switched, although only 9/123 (7%) were switched within 12 weeks of the follow-up VL. Delays were more pronounced in rural facilities. Overall, 100/362 (28%) children with an unsuppressed VL received a timely follow-up VL and, if required, a timely regimen switch.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite access to VL monitoring, clinical management was suboptimal. HIV programs should prioritize timely clinical action to maximize the benefits of VL monitoring.

Virologic outcomes of people living with human immunodeficiency virus who started antiretroviral treatment on the same-day of diagnosis in Ethiopia: A multicenter observational study

INTRODUCTION

There have been tremendous achievements in scaling-up antiretroviral therapy (ART) for treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), following universal "test and treat" policy implementation in low- and middle-income countries. However, its effects on virologic outcomes is not yet well investigated. We compared low viral load status in people living with HIV between those who were initiated on ART on the same-day and after 7 days of being diagnosed with HIV infection.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of persons age ≥15 years-old who were newly diagnosed and started on ART between October 2016 and July 2018 at 11 public health facilities in northwest Ethiopia. Exposure was initiation of ART on the same-day of HIV diagnosis. The outcome was low viral load at 12-months following ART initiation. We used double-robust estimator using inverse-probability-weighted regression adjustment to compare the groups.

RESULTS

A total of 398 people who started ART on the same-day of HIV diagnosis and 479 people who started 7 days after the initial diagnosis were included in this study. By 12-months following ART initiation, 73.4% (292) in the same-day group vs 83.7% (401) in the >7 days group achieved low viral load (absolute difference = 10.3% (95% CI: 4.9%, 15.8%)). After adjusting for baseline and follow-up covariates, there was statistically significant difference in low viral load status (adjusted difference = 8.3% (95% CI: 3.5%, 13.0%)) between the same-day group and the >7 days group.

CONCLUSIONS

Achievement of low viral load by 12-months post-initiation of ART was not optimal among participants who started ART on the same-day of HIV diagnosis. Efforts should be made to reinforce treatment adherence while initiating same-day ART.

Evaluation of conventional and four real-time PCR methods for the detection of Leishmania on field-collected samples in Ethiopia

In most low-resource settings, microscopy still is the standard method for diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis, despite its limited sensitivity. In Ethiopia, the more sensitive molecular methods are not yet routinely used. This study compared five PCR methods with microscopy on two sample types collected from patients with a suspected lesion to advise on optimal diagnosis of Leishmania aethiopica. Between May and July 2018, skin scrapings (SS) and blood exudate from the lesion spotted on filter paper (dry blood spot, DBS) were collected for PCR from 111 patients of four zones in Southern Ethiopia. DNA and RNA were simultaneously extracted from both sample types. DNA was evaluated by a conventional PCR targeting ITS-1 and three probe-based real-time PCRs: one targeting the SSU 18S rRNA and two targeting the kDNA minicircle sequence (the 'Mary kDNA PCR' and a newly designed 'LC kDNA PCR' for improved L. aethiopica detection). RNAs were tested with a SYBR Green-based RT-PCR targeting spliced leader (SL) RNA. Giemsa-stained SS smears were examined by microscopy. Of the 111 SS, 100 were positive with at least two methods. Sensitivity of microscopy, ITS PCR, SSU PCR, Mary kDNA PCR, LC kDNA PCR and SL RNA PCR were respectively 52%, 22%, 64%, 99%, 100% and 94%. Microscopy-based parasite load correlated well with real-time PCR Ct-values. Despite suboptimal sample storage for RNA detection, the SL RNA PCR resulted in congruent results with low Ct-values. DBS collected from the same lesion showed lower PCR positivity rates compared to SS. The kDNA PCRs showed excellent performance for diagnosis of L. aethiopica on SS. Lower-cost SL RNA detection can be a complementary high-throughput tool. DBS can be used for PCR in case microscopy is negative, the SS sample can be sent to the referral health facility where kDNA PCR method is available.

Impact of Viral Load Monitoring on Retention and Viral Suppression: A Regression Discontinuity Analysis of South Africa's National Laboratory Cohort

South African guidelines recommend repeat viral load testing within 6 months when human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral loads exceed 1,000 copies/mL. We assessed whether South African facilities follow viral load monitoring guidelines and whether guidelines improve HIV-related outcomes, using a regression discontinuity design in a national HIV cohort of 174,574 patients (2013-2015). We assessed whether patients with viral loads just above versus just below 1,000 copies/mL were more likely to receive repeat testing in 6 months, and we compared differences in clinic transfers, retention, and viral suppression. The majority (67%) of patients with viral loads of >1,000 copies/mL did not receive repeat testing within 6 months, and these patients were 8.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 6.2, 9.7) more likely to receive repeat testing compared with ≤1,000 copies/mL. Eligibility for repeat testing (>1,000 copies/mL) was associated with greater 12-month retention (risk difference = 2.9%, 95% CI: 0.6, 5.2) and combined suppression and retention (risk difference = 5.8%, 95% CI: 3.0, 8.6). Patients with viral loads of >1,000 copies/mL who actually received repeat testing were 85.2% more likely to be both retained and virally suppressed at 12 months (95% CI: 35.9, 100.0). Viral load monitoring might improve patient outcomes, but most patients with elevated viral loads do not receive monitoring within recommended timelines.

Acceptability of point-of-care viral load testing to facilitate differentiated care: a qualitative assessment of people living with HIV and nurses in South Africa

Background

Providing viral load (VL) results to people living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains a challenge in low and middle-income countries. Point-of-care (POC) VL testing could improve ART monitoring and the quality and efficiency of differentiated models of HIV care. We assessed the acceptability of POC VL testing within a differentiated care model that involved task-shifting from professional nurses to less highly-trained enrolled nurses, and an option of collecting treatment from a community-based ART delivery programme.

Methods

We undertook a qualitative sub-study amongst clients on ART and nurses within the STREAM study, a randomized controlled trial of POC VL testing and task-shifting in Durban, South Africa. Between March and August 2018, we conducted 33 semi-structured interviews with clients, professional and enrolled nurses and 4 focus group discussions with clients. Interviews and focus groups were audio recorded, transcribed, translated and thematically analysed.

Results

Amongst 55 clients on ART (median age 31, 56% women) and 8 nurses (median age 39, 75% women), POC VL testing and task-shifting to enrolled nurses was acceptable. Both clients and providers reported that POC VL testing yielded practical benefits for PLHIV by reducing the number of clinic visits, saving time, travel costs and days off work. Receiving same-day POC VL results encouraged adherence amongst clients, by enabling them to see immediately if they were ‘good’ or ‘bad’ adherers and enabled quick referrals to a community-based ART delivery programme for those with viral suppression. However, there was some concern regarding the impact of POC VL testing on clinic flows when implemented in busy public-sector clinics. Regarding task-shifting, nurses felt that, with extra training, enrolled nurses could help decongest healthcare facilities by quickly issuing ART to stable clients. Clients could not easily distinguish enrolled nurses from professional nurses, instead they highlighted the importance of friendliness, respect and good communication between clients and nurses.

Conclusions

POC VL testing combined with task-shifting was acceptable to clients and healthcare providers. Implementation of POC VL testing and task shifting within differentiated care models may help achieve international treatment targets.

Trial registration

NCT03066128, registered 22/02/2017.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-020-05940-w.

Access to HIV Viral Load Testing and Antiretroviral Therapy Switch Practices: A Multicountry Prospective Cohort Study in Sub-Saharan Africa

Poor access to HIV viral load (VL) testing prevents the timely monitoring of HIV treatment adherence and efficacy. Factors enabling clinical benefits of VL testing when added to local standards of care, can inform the development of more cost-effective routine VL scale-up plans. We compared antiretroviral therapy (ART) switch practices in 13 clinics across 6 countries, with full (N = 8), phasing-in (N = 3) or no onsite access (N = 2) to VL. The analysis used data from the Pan-African Studies to Evaluate Resistance (PASER), observing virological and drug resistance outcomes among adults receiving first- or second-line ART between 2008 and 2015. Study plasma viral load (sVL) determined at baseline, every 12 months thereafter and at the time of switch served for retrospectively validating switch decisions, categorized into "necessary," "unnecessary," and "missed." Virological failure was defined as two consecutive sVL ≥1,000 HIV-RNA copies/mL. One thousand nine hundred ninety-five of the 2,420 (82.4%) study participants had continuous virological suppression during the median 30 months of follow-up. Among the 266 virological failures (11.0%), the proportion of necessary switches were similar in clinics with full (37%), phasing-in (25%), or no access (39%) to local VL testing. Documented utilization of local VL results for the switch decision was associated with higher percentage of necessary switch (87.6% vs. 67.9%). Shorter time to necessary switch was associated with higher rates of long-term virological suppression, regardless of access to local viral load. Availability of HIV VL testing capacity does not systematically result in adequate switch practices or better virological outcomes. Systems supporting sufficient test demand execution, and actual utilization of results for patient management need strengthening.

Prevalence of nonsuppressed viral load and associated factors among HIV-positive adults receiving antiretroviral therapy in Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe (2015 to 2017): results from population-based nationally representative surveys

INTRODUCTION

The global target for 2020 is that ≥90% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) will achieve viral load suppression (VLS). We examined VLS and its determinants among adults receiving ART for at least four months.

METHODS

We analysed data from the population-based HIV impact assessment (PHIA) surveys in Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe (2015 to 2017). PHIA surveys are nationally representative, cross-sectional household surveys. Data collection included structured interviews, home-based HIV testing and laboratory testing. Blood samples from PLHIV were analysed for HIV RNA, CD4 counts and recent exposure to antiretroviral drugs (ARVs). We calculated representative estimates for the prevalence of VLS (viral load <1000 copies/mL), nonsuppressed viral load (NVL; viral load ≥1000 copies/mL), virologic failure (VF; ARVs present and viral load ≥1000 copies/mL), interrupted ART (ARVs absent and viral load ≥1000 copies/mL) and rates of switching to second-line ART (protease inhibitors present) among PLHIV aged 15 to 59 years who participated in the PHIA surveys in Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe, initiated ART at least four months before the survey and were receiving ART at the time of the survey (according to self-report or ARV testing). We calculated odds ratios and incidence rate ratios for factors associated with NVL, VF, interrupted ART, and switching to second-line ART.

RESULTS

We included 9200 adults receiving ART of whom 88.8% had VLS and 11.2% had NVL including 8.2% who experienced VF and 3.0% who interrupted ART. Younger age, male sex, less education, suboptimal adherence, receiving nevirapine, HIV non-disclosure, never having married and residing in Zimbabwe, Lesotho or Zambia were associated with higher odds of NVL. Among people with NVL, marriage, female sex, shorter ART duration, higher CD4 count and alcohol use were associated with lower odds for VF and higher odds for interrupted ART. Many people with VF (44.8%) had CD4 counts <200 cells/µL, but few (0.31% per year) switched to second-line ART.

CONCLUSIONS

Countries are approaching global VLS targets for adults. Treatment support, in particular for younger adults, and people with higher CD4 counts, and switching of people to protease inhibitor- or integrase inhibitor-based regimens may further reduce NVL prevalence.

Burden of Depression in Outpatient HIV-Infected adults in Sub-Saharan Africa; Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Despite the substantial burden of HIV in Africa, and the knowledge that depression causes worse HIV outcomes, the burden of depression in people living with HIV in Africa is unknown. We searched Pubmed and four other databases using key terms: depression, Africa, HIV, and prevalence from 2008 to 2018. We summarized depression prevalence by country. We estimated the burden of depression using our prevalence data and 2018 UNAIDS HIV estimates. Our search yielded 70 articles across 16 African countries. The overall prevalence of major depression in those HIV-infected using a diagnostic interview was 15.3% (95% CI 12.5-17.1%). We estimate that 3.63 million (99.7% CI 3.15-4.19 million) individuals with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa have major depression and provide country-level estimates. We estimate that 1.57 million (99.7% CI 1.37-1.82 million) DALYs are lost among people with depression and HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa. There is a significant burden of depression in Africans with HIV. Further work to screen for and treat depression in Sub-Saharan Africa is needed to improve HIV outcomes and achieve the 90-90-90 UNAIDS goals.

The viral load monitoring cascade in a resource-limited setting: A prospective multicentre cohort study after introduction of routine viral load monitoring in rural Lesotho

INTRODUCTION

For HIV-positive individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART), the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends routine viral load (VL) monitoring. We report on the cascade of care in individuals with unsuppressed VL after introduction of routine VL monitoring in a district in Lesotho.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In Butha-Buthe district 12 clinics (11 rural, 1 hospital) send samples for VL testing to the district laboratory. We included data from patients aged ≥15 years from Dec 1, 2015 to November 1, 2018. As per WHO guidelines VL <1000 copies/mL are considered suppressed, those ≥1000copies/mL unsuppressed. Patients with unsuppressed VL receive adherence counseling and follow-up VL within 8-12 weeks. Two consecutively unsuppressed VLs should trigger switch to second-line ART. For analysis of the VL monitoring cascade we defined care to be "according to guidelines" if patients with unsuppressed VL received a follow-up VL within <180 days and follow-up VL was either re-suppressed, or again unsuppressed and the individual was switched to second-line within 90 days.

RESULTS

For 9,949 individuals 24,948 VL tests were available. The majority were female (73%), median age 41 years (interquartile range 33-52), and 58% seen at rural clinics. Overall, 25% (260/1028) of individuals were managed according to guidelines: 40% (410/1028) had a follow-up VL within 180 days of their initial unsuppressed VL and 25% (260/1028) of those either re-suppressed or switched to second-line within 90 days. Female patients were more likely to have a follow-up VL done, (p = 0.015). In rural clinics rates of two consecutively unsuppressed VLs were higher than in the hospital (64% vs. 44%, p<0.001), and rural clinics were less likely to switch these patients to second-line (35% vs. 66%, p<0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show that in a real-life setting availability of routine VL monitoring may not be exploited to its potential. A lack of timely follow-up after a first unsuppressed VL and reluctance to switch patients with confirmed virological failure, reduce the benefit of VL monitoring, i.e. in the rural clinics. Future studies will have to assess models of care which ensure that VL results are met with an action and make use of scalable innovative approaches.

Pretreatment HIV drug resistance in low- and middle-income countries

Pretreatment HIV drug resistance (PDR) has been increasing with scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in low- and middle-income countries. Delay in responding to rising levels of PDR is projected to fuel a worldwide increase in mortality, HIV incidence and ART costs. Strategies to curb the rise in PDR include using antiretrovirals (ARVs) with high-genetic barrier to resistance in first-line therapy and for prophylaxis in HIV exposed infants, enhancing HIV drug resistance surveillance in populations initiating, receiving ART, and in those on pre-exposure prophylaxis, universal access and effective use of viral-load tests, improving adherence and retention and minimizing ART programmatic quality gaps. In this review, we assess the drivers of PDR, and potential strategies to mitigate its rise in prevalence and impact in low- and middle-income countries.

Point-of-Care HIV Viral Load Testing: an Essential Tool for a Sustainable Global HIV/AIDS Response

The global public health community has set ambitious treatment targets to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic. With the notable absence of a cure, the goal of HIV treatment is to achieve sustained suppression of an HIV viral load, which allows for immunological recovery and reduces the risk of onward HIV transmission. Monitoring HIV viral load in people living with HIV is therefore central to maintaining effective individual antiretroviral therapy as well as monitoring progress toward achieving population targets for viral suppression. The capacity for laboratory-based HIV viral load testing has increased rapidly in low- and middle-income countries, but implementation of universal viral load monitoring is still hindered by several barriers and delays. New devices for point-of-care HIV viral load testing may be used near patients to improve HIV management by reducing the turnaround time for clinical test results. The implementation of near-patient testing using these new and emerging technologies may be an essential tool for ensuring a sustainable response that will ultimately enable an end to the HIV/AIDS pandemic. In this report, we review the current and emerging technology, the evidence for decentralized viral load monitoring by non-laboratory health care workers, and the additional considerations for expanding point-of-care HIV viral load testing.

Curbing the rise of HIV drug resistance in low-income and middle-income countries: the role of dolutegravir-containing regimens

To improve virological suppression and address the emerging threat of HIV drug resistance, many low-income and middle-income countries are moving away from non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) and transitioning to dolutegravir as part of a more affordable and standardised antiretroviral therapy (ART). Although this transition could decrease the effect of rising NNRTI resistance and yield improved ART outcomes, it also presents new challenges. First, current safety concerns for dolutegravir use in women of childbearing potential require alternative solutions. Second, pre-existing resistance to the co-administered nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors might reduce effectiveness and durability of dolutegravir, particularly if there is scarce access to viral load tests to monitor treatment outcomes. Third, there is inadequate information on the genetic correlates of resistance to dolutegravir, particularly in patients infected with HIV-1 non-B subtypes. Finally, clinical management of patients with confirmed virological failure on a dolutegravir-based regimen can pose challenges because of uncertainty around whether dolutegravir resistance has actually developed and switching is needed, or whether only interventions to improve adherence without switching are sufficient. These considerations should be addressed to consolidate expected gains from widespread introduction of dolutegravir in low-income and middle-income countries.