TITLE:
Factors Influencing the Continuum of Care for Children and Adolescents Treated for HIV at the Pediatric Teaching Hospital of Bangui
AUTHORS:
Simplice Cyriaque Kango, Marie Christine Awa Sepou Yanza, Dimitri Horeb Ombellet, Carine Judith Kiteze Nguinzanemou, Jess Elio Kosh Komba, Jean Chrysostome Gody
KEYWORDS:
Influencing Factors, Continuum of Care, Children/Adolescents, HIV, Bangui
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Pediatrics,
Vol.15 No.1,
January
24,
2025
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Reducing and maintaining viral load is crucial to reducing morbidity and mortality associated with HIV infection in children. The aim of this study was to determine the factors influencing the maintenance of children and adolescents on antiretroviral therapy in the continuum of care. Methodology: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted from August 1 to August 31, 2023. It included all children living with HIV, under 15 years of age, with at least two viral load results and whose parents consented to participate in the study. Participants were recruited during their child’s treatment renewal consultations. Results: The study included 143 children, mostly boys (55.2%), with a mean age of 11.54 years (±2.8). More than half (55.2) were unaware of their HIV-positive status, and most treatments were administered by parents (60.8%). Of the 99 children with an undetectable viral load at the first test, 23 (23.2%) showed a viral rebound at the last test, mainly due to poor treatment compliance (p Conclusion: Virological rebound after suppression in children is worrying. It is crucial that the national AIDS program improves Therapeutic Education, trains health workers to communicate results and encourages ongoing dialogue with young people to reinforce adherence and maintain viral suppression.