Provision of antiretroviral care to displaced populations in humanitarian settings: a systematic review

Abstract

Providing antiretroviral treatment (ART) in humanitarian settings is challenging. Reports suggest that ART provision is feasible, but the evidence base is scarce. We systematically searched three databases for studies reporting ART outcomes among displaced populations in settings of conflict, natural disasters or political instability, and estimated overall mortality using random effects models. Fourteen studies were identified, six in conflict areas, five in areas of post-election violence and three in natural disaster settings. The pooled proportion for mortality was 7.6% (95%CI 5.3–10.0%) at six months and 9.0% (95%CI 5.8–12.2%) at 12 months. Loss-to-follow-up at six months was 6.3% (95%CI 4.3–8.3%) and at 12 months was 8.1% (4.9–11.2%). Adherence was comparable to stable settings. Strategies used to support ART provision included additional drug stocks and establishing peer communication networks. Good clinical outcomes can be achieved with ART in disaster setting, in particular if supported by regional collaboration, standardized drug regimens and contingency planning.