Preventing Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission in Zimbabwe
Author Information
Author(s): Shetty Avinash K, Marangwanda Caroline, Stranix-Chibanda Lynda, Chandisarewa Winfreda, Chirapa Elizabeth, Mahomva Agnes, Miller Anna, Simoyi Micah, Maldonado Yvonne
Primary Institution: Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Hypothesis
Can peer counselors effectively implement a PMTCT program in urban Zimbabwe?
Conclusion
It was feasible to implement a PMTCT program using peer counselors in urban clinics in Zimbabwe despite challenges.
Supporting Evidence
- 98% of women underwent pre-test counseling.
- 56% accepted HIV testing, with 19% testing positive.
- 77% of HIV-infected women collected nevirapine tablets.
- 40% of HIV-infected women delivered at the clinics.
Takeaway
This study shows that trained peer counselors can help pregnant women avoid passing HIV to their babies in Zimbabwe.
Methodology
A nevirapine-based PMTCT program was implemented using trained peer counselors in urban antenatal clinics.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the non-controlled nature of the study.
Limitations
High mobility of the population and loss to follow-up limited the ability to measure the precise impact of the intervention.
Participant Demographics
The study involved pregnant women presenting for antenatal care, with a significant proportion being HIV-infected.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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