Low levels of viral suppression among refugees and host nationals accessing antiretroviral therapy in a Kenyan refugee camp.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Refugees and host nationals who accessed antiretroviral therapy (ART) in a remote refugee camp in Kakuma, Kenya (2011-2013) were compared on outcome measures that included viral suppression and adherence to ART.

Methods

This study used a repeated cross-sectional design (Round One and Round Two). All adults (≥18 years) receiving care from the refugee camp clinic and taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥30 days were invited to participate. Adherence was measured by self-report and monthly pharmacy refills. Whole blood was measured on dried blood spots. HIV-1 RNA was quantified and treatment failures were submitted for drug resistance testing. A remedial intervention was implemented in response to baseline testing. The primary outcome was viral load

SUBMITTER: Mendelsohn JB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5450054 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature