Estimated HIV Trends and Program Effects in Botswana
2008

HIV Trends and Program Effects in Botswana

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): John Stover, Boga Fidzani, Chris Molomo Batho, Themba Moeti, Godfrey Musuka

Primary Institution: Futures Institute

Hypothesis

This study aims to estimate past trends and current levels of HIV in Botswana and the effects of treatment and prevention programs.

Conclusion

Botswana's PMTCT and treatment programs have significantly reduced new child infections and deaths among adults and children, but new adult infections remain high.

Supporting Evidence

  • National HIV prevalence in Botswana was estimated at 26% in 2007.
  • About 330,000 people are infected with HIV, including 20,000 children.
  • The number of new child infections has declined significantly due to effective PMTCT programs.
  • Adult AIDS deaths have decreased from over 15,500 in 2003 to under 7,400 in 2007.
  • ART coverage has reached over 80% of those in need.

Takeaway

Botswana has made great progress in preventing HIV from mothers to their babies, but many adults are still getting infected.

Methodology

The study used data from sentinel surveillance at antenatal clinics and a national population survey to estimate HIV prevalence trends.

Potential Biases

Urban surveillance data may be biased compared to the entire urban population.

Limitations

The antenatal clinic data may not fully represent the general adult population.

Participant Demographics

The study primarily focused on women aged 15-49 attending antenatal clinics.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

25-27%

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0003729

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