Virological Breakthrough and Loss to Follow-Up in HIV Treatment
Author Information
Author(s): Catherine Orrell, Richard Kaplan, Robin Wood, Linda-Gail Bekker
Primary Institution: Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town
Hypothesis
Does experiencing virological breakthrough after initial suppression affect long-term outcomes in individuals on antiretroviral therapy?
Conclusion
Individuals who experience virological breakthrough are less likely to remain in care compared to those who maintain virological suppression.
Supporting Evidence
- 4047 ART-naïve adults commenced ART, with 2959 achieving virological suppression.
- 71% of those who achieved suppression remained suppressed, while 29% experienced breakthrough.
- Of those with breakthrough, 67% resuppressed after an adherence intervention.
Takeaway
If someone with HIV has a spike in their viral load after being treated, they might have a harder time sticking with their treatment plan compared to those who stay healthy.
Methodology
The study reviewed ART-naïve adults who started treatment between 2002 and 2009, categorizing them based on their viral load outcomes.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported adherence and loss to follow-up data.
Limitations
The study relies on retrospective data and may not capture all factors influencing loss to follow-up.
Participant Demographics
The cohort included ART-naïve adults, with a majority being female and a median age of 35 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
IQR 0.75–2.46 years
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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