Uptake of Antiretroviral Treatment in Rural South Africa
Author Information
Author(s): Graham S. Cooke, Frank C. Tanser, Till W. Bärnighausen, Marie-Louise Newell
Primary Institution: Africa Centre for Health and Population Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal
Hypothesis
What factors are associated with the uptake of antiretroviral treatment through primary healthcare in rural South Africa?
Conclusion
Access to antiretroviral treatment is significantly influenced by the distance from healthcare facilities, with little variation across socio-demographic factors.
Supporting Evidence
- Mean uptake of ART among HIV positive adults was 21.0%.
- Uptake was lower among men (19.2%) compared to women (21.8%).
- Distance from the nearest healthcare facility significantly affected ART access.
Takeaway
People living far from health clinics are less likely to get HIV treatment, even if they need it. This study shows that making clinics closer can help more people get the help they need.
Methodology
The study used demographic, HIV surveillance, and GIS data to estimate ART uptake and analyze factors influencing access.
Potential Biases
There is a potential ascertainment bias due to the small false negative ratio in the risk factor analysis.
Limitations
The study may underestimate ART uptake due to imperfect linkage between ART program and HIV surveillance data.
Participant Demographics
The study included HIV positive adults aged 15 and older, with a sample of 2,284 individuals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.011
Confidence Interval
95% CI 20.1-21.9
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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