TITLE:
HIV Seroprevalence among Key Populations in Africa: A Systematic Review
AUTHORS:
Alliance Tagoto Tepungipame, Dieu-Merci Mbumba Lupaka, Serge Tonen Wolyec, Salomon Batina Agasa, Jean Panda Lukongo, Joris Losimba Likwela
KEYWORDS:
HIV, Seroprevalence, Key Populations, Africa
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.13 No.3,
March
28,
2025
ABSTRACT: Introduction: This paper systematically reviews HIV seroprevalence among key populations (men who have sex with men, female sex workers, people who inject drugs, prisoners, and gender-diverse individuals) in Africa. Methods: The review followed PRISMA guidelines and included 24 cross-sectional studies conducted in 14 African countries over the past decade. Results: The review highlights significant variability in HIV prevalence across different populations and regions, with the highest rates observed among people who inject drugs and female sex workers. The findings indicate that HIV prevalence ranges from 3.6% to 42.9% for men who have sex with men, 5.6% to 69.0% for female sex workers, and 3.3% to 89.6% for people who inject drugs, while prevalence among prisoners ranges from 1.9% to 25.1%. The review emphasizes the need for targeted interventions, improved study methodologies, and more comprehensive data collection to guide HIV prevention and treatment strategies. It also highlights gaps in research, particularly concerning gender-diverse individuals and prisoners. Conclusion: Addressing the social, legal, and economic barriers faced by these populations is critical to reducing HIV transmission and improving public health outcomes.