Factors Associated with Viral Load Suppression amongst People Living with HIV on Highly Active Anti-retroviral Therapy [Haart] at Kaloko, Chipulukusu and Kantolomba Art Health Facilities of Ndola District

Abstract

It is important to monitor HIV clients in ART treatment using viral load testing in an effort to meet the third 95 strategy of UNAIDS 95-95-95, which is viral load suppression. The target “95-95-95” strategy is expected to be achieved by 2030. Unfortunately, there is insufficient regional data, especially in the third “95”. Screening for viral load in low- and middle-income countries allows VLS monitoring of individual categories and demographics, necessary to achieve global epidemic control. The aim of this study was to find progress in the three [3] rural health centers in Ndola District on the achievement of VLS among HIV-positive patients on ART and related factors affecting the program. Sociodemography data, including age, gender, drug type and duration of treatment and laboratory variability [current viral load results], were extracted from client records using the SmartCare system. VL suppression and failure are determined using WHO definitions [viral pressure such as viral load <1000 copies/ml and virologic failure ≥1000 copies/ml]. Regular clinic [used as a proxy for adherence to medication and medication] will be defined as monthly clinical access to HAART treatment and other clinical management over the past 12 months.