Estimation of HIV-testing rates to maximize early diagnosis-derived benefits at the individual and population level.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In HIV infection, initiation of treatment is associated with improved clinical outcom and reduced rate of sexual transmission. However, difficulty in detecting infection in early stages impairs those benefits. We determined the minimum testing rate that maximizes benefits derived from early diagnosis.

Methods

We developed a mathematical model of HIV infection, diagnosis and treatment that allows studying both diagnosed and undiagnosed populations, as well as determining the impact of modifying time to diagnosis and testing rates. The model's external consistency was assessed by estimating time to AIDS and death in absence of treatment as well as by estimating age-dependent mortality rates during treatment, and comparing them with data previously reported from CASC

SUBMITTER: Dilernia DA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3538781 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature