Improving HIV Care for Children in Kenya
Author Information
Author(s): Van Winghem Joelle, Telfer Barbara, Reid Tony, Ouko Judith, Mutunga Angela, Jama Zaina, Vakil Shobha
Primary Institution: Médecins Sans Frontières
Hypothesis
Can a comprehensive program improve adherence to HIV care and treatment for children in a resource-limited setting?
Conclusion
The child-centered approach in our HIV care program led to high treatment adherence and positive outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- The program achieved a Kaplan-Meier mortality survival estimate of 95.27% at 12 months.
- 55% of enrolled children were initiated on HAART.
- 69% of children on HAART were still in active care after 12 months.
Takeaway
This study shows that helping kids with HIV and their families understand their treatment can make them stick to it better.
Methodology
The program included psycho-social support activities and treatment literacy training for children and caregivers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on self-reported adherence and the subjective nature of psychosocial assessments.
Limitations
The study did not formally evaluate individual components of the program.
Participant Demographics
Children under 15 years of age, with a median age of 4.88 years; 53% female.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 93.16–96.74
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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