Factors Affecting Late HIV Diagnosis in Venezuela
Author Information
Author(s): Maeva Bonjour, Morelba Montagne, Martha Zambrano, Gloria Molina, Catherine Lippuner, Francis G Wadskier, Milvida Castrillo, Renzo N Incani, Adriana Tami
Primary Institution: Department of Biomedical Research, Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
What factors influence the delay in presenting for HIV diagnosis in Venezuela?
Conclusion
Poverty and barriers related to lack of knowledge and awareness of HIV and the free HIV program were significant factors in late presentation for diagnosis.
Supporting Evidence
- 40% of patients presented late for diagnosis.
- Older age, male heterosexuality, and lower socio-economic status were associated with late diagnosis.
- Women were less likely to present late than heterosexual men.
Takeaway
Many people in Venezuela find out they have HIV too late because they don't know enough about the disease or the free testing available.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the Regional HIV Reference Centre, collecting data from medical files and interviews.
Potential Biases
Interview setting may have influenced responses, and recall bias could affect the accuracy of reported behaviors.
Limitations
Only 57% of the study population could be interviewed, potentially leading to bias.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 33 years, with a male/female ratio of nearly 4:1; most participants were between 20 and 40 years old.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Confidence Interval
0.18–0.66
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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