High Levels of Adherence and Viral Suppression in a Nationally Representative Sample of HIV-Infected Adults on Antiretroviral Therapy for 6, 12 and 18 Months in Rwanda

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053586
• Publication Date: 2013-01-10T00:11:05Z
• Authors: Batya Elul; Paulin Basinga; Harriet Nuwagaba-...; Suzue Saito; Deborah Horowitz; Denis Nash; Jules Mugabo; Veronicah Mugisha; Etienne Rugigana; Richard Nkunda; Anita Asiimwe
• Keywords: Odds; Cross-sectional study

Generalizable data are needed on the magnitude and determinants of adherence virological suppression among patients antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Africa.We conducted a cross-sectional survey with chart abstraction, patient interviews site assessments nationally representative sample adults ART for 6, 12 18 months at 20 sites Rwanda. Adherence was assessed using 3- 30-day recall. A systematically selected sub-sample had viral load (VL) measurements. Multivariable logistic regression examined predictors non-perfect (<100%) detectable VL (>40 copies/ml).Overall, 1,417 were interviewed 837 measures. Ninety-four percent 78% reported perfect last 3 30 days, respectively. Eighty-three undetectable VL. In adjusted models, characteristics independently associated higher odds were: being (vs. 6 months); younger age; reporting severe no or few) side effects prior days; having documentation CD4 cell count initiation <200 cells/µL); alcohol use; attending which initiated services 2003-2004 2005 2006-2007); ≥600 <600 patients) ART; peer educators. Participation an association people living HIV/AIDS; receiving care regularly conduct home-visits lower non-adherence. Higher observed Being female; participating PLWHA; reminder tool VL.High levels Rwandan national program, potentially modifiable factors.