Incidence and risk factors of first-line antiretroviral treatment failure among human immunodeficiency virus-infected children in Amhara regional state, Ethiopia: a retrospective follow-up study

Incidence and predictors of virological failure among children receiving first-line anti-retroviral treatment in public comprehensive specialized hospitals found in Northeast Ethiopia: a retrospective follow-up study

Background

Despite anti-retroviral treatment coverage in resource-limited countries being highly appreciated, the occurrence of first-line virological failure remains a priority agenda. Therefore, this study serves as an input for evidence of virological failure among children.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the incidence and predictors of virological failure among children receiving first-line anti-retroviral treatment in public comprehensive specialized hospitals found in Northeast Ethiopia through a retrospective follow-up study.

Methods

A multicenter institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted on the medical records of 481 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected children who were on first-line anti-retroviral therapy from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2021. Data were retrieved from 15 May to 15 June 2022 at three public comprehensive specialized hospitals. Study participants were recruited using a simple random sampling technique. STATA-14 was used to analyze the data, which was entered using EpiData version 4.6.2.0. The Kaplan-Meier estimator was used to estimate the survival. Both bivariable and multivariable Cox regression models were fitted to identify predictors. Finally, adjusted hazards ratios (AHRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed, and variables with a P-value of <0.05 were considered statistically significant predictors of virological failure.

Result

A total of 481 children records were included in the final analysis, with an observed follow-up period of 16,379 person-months. Among these, 60 (12.47%) had developed virological failure, resulting in an overall incidence density rate of 3.67 (95% CI; 2.84, 4.73) per 1000 person-month observations. The hazards of virological failure (VF) among children were found to be increased by being in recent WHO stages III and IV (AHR = 3.688; 95% CI: 1.449-6.388), poor adherence to anti-retroviral treatment (ART) (AHR = 3.506; 95% CI: 1.711-7.234), and living in a rural environment (AHR = 5.013; 95% CI: 1.958-8.351). Conversely, the hazard of VF was reduced by 60% when the age of caregivers was less than 40 years (AHR = 0.405; 0.003-0.449).

Conclusion and recommendations

The incidence rate of virological failure was relatively high. Living in a rural area, poor adherence to ART, being in a recent advanced WHO clinical stage, and having a caregiver of 40 years of age or older were all independent predictors of virological failure in children. Patients or parents (caregivers) need to be aware of the importance of strictly adhering to treatment regimens to prevent virological failure.

Incidence and predictors of virological failure among HIV infected children and adolescents on first-line antiretroviral therapy in East Shewa hospitals, Oromia Region, Ethiopia: A retrospective follow up study

INTRODUCTION

Despite gains made from improved antiretroviral therapy coverage in resource limited countries, the occurrence of first line drug resistance remains a priority agenda. To reduce the emergence of resistant viruses, HIV viral load monitoring plays a critical role. However, many resource limited countries have difficulty of monitoring viral load due to economic constraints.There is also limited study regarding viral failure in developing countries. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the incidence and predictors of virological failure among HIV-infected children and adolescents on first-line ART Ethiopia, 2021.

METHODS

Institution based retrospective follow-up study was employed on 492 children and adolescents. Data were collected by trained nurses who have experience working in ART clinics. Data were entered using Epi-data version 4.6 and exported to Stata version 14 for analysis. The proportional hazard assumption was checked, and the Weibull regression was fitted. Cox-Snell residual was used to test the goodness of fit, and the appropriate model was selected by AIC. Finally, an AHR with a 95% CI was computed, and variables with a P-value < 0.05 in the multivariable analysis were taken as significant predictors of virological failure.

RESULTS

The overall incidence rate of virological failure was 4.2, (95% CI: 3.41, 5.22) per 1000 person-months of observation with 20,169 person-months follow-up time. In multivariable analysis living in rural area (AHR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.15-3.36), poor adherence (AHR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.24-3.91), lower CD4 Count <200 cells/mm3 (AHR = 2.57, 95% CI: 1.27-5.18) and 201-350 cells/mm3 (AHR = 2.44, 95% CI: 1.28-4.67) respectively, and recent OI (AHR = 4.60, 95% CI: 2.38-8.90) are significantly associated with virological failure.

CONCLUSION

The incidence rate of virological failure was high. Living in a rural, poor adherence, lower CD4 count, and recent opportunistic infection were independent risk factors associated with virological failure. Hence, it is better to give priority to strengthening the focused evaluation of important variables and managing accordingly.

Incidence and predictors of treatment failure among children with HIV on first-line antiretroviral therapy in Wolaita zone, Southern Ethiopia: A multicenter retrospective cohort study

Background

Antiretroviral therapy has improved the life expectancy of HIV-positive children. Treatment failure and drug resistance among children with HIV remain major public health concerns despite the rise in ART use. A dearth of evidence exists regarding treatment failure among Ethiopian children from multicenter settings. Therefore, this study sought to assess the incidence and predictors of treatment failure among children with HIV on first-line antiretroviral therapy at health facilities in Wolaita zone, Southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based retrospective cohort study was conducted from January 1, 2017, to December 30, 2021, at health facilities providing ART in Wolaita zone, Southern Ethiopia. A total of 425 children with HIV on first-line ART were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were extracted by reviewing the patient's medical record. The data were entered using epi-data version 4.6 and exported to STATA version 15 for analysis. Both bi-variable and multivariable Cox regression analysis were employed. A p-value of less than 0.05 and a hazard ratio with 95 % CI was used to estimate the association between the predictor factors and treatment failure.

Results

The overall incidence density rate of treatment failure was 3.2 per 1000 person-months of observation (95 % CI: 2.4-4.6). The factors significantly associated with antiretroviral treatment failure were caregiver marital status, single (AHR = 4.86, 95 % CI: 1.52, 15.60), and widowed (AHR = 3.75, 95 % CI: 1.16, 12.11), duration of follow-up (AHR = 4.95, 95 % CI: 1.81, 13.54), and baseline CD4 count (AHR = 4.70, 95 % CI: 1.68, 13.14).

Conclusion

The incidence rate of ART failure among children with HIV was found to be significant. Low baseline CD4 count, short follow-up duration on ART, and having a single or widowed caregiver were significantly associated with antiretroviral treatment failure. Early identification of children with low CD4 count and subsequent initiation of ART should be emphasized by stakeholders working in HIV care programs. Healthcare professionals should pay special attention to and regularly monitor the treatment progress of children who have single or widowed caregivers, and those with shorter duration of follow-ups.

Incidence and predictors of antiretroviral treatment failure among children in public health facilities of Kolfe Keranyo Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Institution-based retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health concern globally. The number of people living with HIV worldwide in 2018 was estimated at 37.9 million; of those, 1.7 million are children. Globally, 62% of the 37.9 million people were receiving Antiretroviral treatment (ART); and among those who were on ART, 53% had achieved viral suppression. This study aimed to assess the incidence and predictors of Antiretroviral treatment failure among children in Kolfe Keranyo sub-city, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

METHODS

An institution-based retrospective cohort study was conducted among 250 children who were enrolled in first-line Antiretroviral treatment from January 2013 to May 2020 in Kolfe Keranyo sub-city. Data was collected by using a data extraction checklist and data were extracted by reviewing children's medical charts and electronic database. Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the probability of treatment failure. During bivariable analysis variables with p-value < 0.25 were taken for multivariable Cox regression analysis to assess predictors of treatment failure. Statistically significant association was declared at p-value < 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval.

RESULT

The overall proportion of treatment failure within the follow-up period was 17.2%. This study also found that the overall incidence rate was 3.45 (95% CI: 2.57-4.67) per 1000 person-month observation. Infant prophylaxis for PMTCT (AHR: 3.59, 95% CI: 1.65-7,82), drug substitution (AHR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.09-0.37), AZT/3TC/NVP based regimen (AHR: 2.27, 95% CI: 1.14-4.25), and more than 3 episodes of poor ART adherence (AHR: 2.27, 95% CI: 1.17-4.38) were found to be predictors of treatment failure among children.

CONCLUSION

High proportion of treatment failure was found among children on first-line ART in Kolfe Keranyo sub-city, Addis Ababa according to the UNAIDs virological suppression targets. Infant prophylaxis for PMTCT, drug substitution, AZT/3TC/NVP based initial regimen, and poor ART adherence were found to be predictors of first-line ART treatment failure. Close follow-up of children on medication adherence and revising the AZT/3TC/NVP based regimen need to be considered.

Predictors of a high incidence of opportunistic infections among HIV-infected children receiving antiretroviral therapy at Amhara regional state comprehensive specialized hospitals, Ethiopia: A multicenter institution-based retrospective follow-up study

Introduction

Globally, opportunistic infections are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among HIV-infected children, contributing to more than 90% of HIV-related deaths. In 2014, Ethiopia launched and began to implement a "test and treat" strategy aiming to reduce the burden of opportunistic infections. Despite this intervention, opportunistic infections continue to be a serious public health issue, with limited evidence available on their overall incidence among HIV-infected children in the study area.

Objective

The study aimed to assess the incidence of opportunistic infections and to identify predictors of their occurrence among HIV-infected children receiving antiretroviral therapy at Amhara Regional State Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals in 2022.

Methods

A multicenter, institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted among 472 HIV-infected children receiving antiretroviral therapy at Amhara Regional State Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals from May 17 to June 15, 2022. Children receiving antiretroviral therapy were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using national antiretroviral intake and follow-up forms via the KoBo Toolbox. STATA 16 was used for data analyses, and the Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate probabilities of opportunistic infection-free survival. Both bi-variable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were employed to identify significant predictors. A P-value <0.05 was taken to indicate statistical significance.

Results

Medical records from a total of 452 children (representing a completeness rate of 95.8%) were included and analyzed in the study. The overall incidence of opportunistic infections among children receiving ART was 8.64 per 100 person-years of observation. The predictors of elevated incidence of opportunistic infections were: a CD4 cell count below a specified threshold [AHR: 2.34 (95% CI: 1.45, 3.76)]; co-morbidity of anemia [AHR: 1.68 (95% CI: 1.06, 2.67)]; ever having exhibited only fair or poor adherence to ART drugs [AHR: 2.31 (95% CI: 1.47, 3.63)]; never having taken tuberculosis-preventive therapy [AHR: 1.95 (95% CI: 1.27, 2.99)]; and not having initiated antiretroviral therapy within 7 days of HIV diagnosis [AHR: 1.82 (95% CI: 1.12, 2.96)].

Conclusion

In this study, the incidence of opportunistic infections was high. Early initiation antiretroviral therapy has direct effect on boosting the immunity, suppressing viral replications and increases the CD4 count, so that the occurrence of opportunistic infection will reduce the incidence of OIs.

Predictors of first-line antiretroviral treatment failure among children on antiretroviral therapy at the University of Gondar comprehensive specialised hospital, North-west, Ethiopia: a 14-year long-term follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence and predictors of first-line human immune deficiency virus treatment failure among human immune deficiency virus-infected children at the University of Gondar comprehensive specialised hospital in Ethiopia.

DESIGN

A retrospective follow-up study.

SETTING

University of Gondar comprehensive specialised hospital, North-west, Ethiopia.

PARTICIPANTS

Children were among the HIV infected from January 2005 to December 2018. There were 336 children included in the study. The data were entered into EPi Info V.7.2 and then exported to STATA V.14.0 Software for analysis. Both bivariable and multivariable analyses with Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify the predictors of treatment failure.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Predictors of first-line antiretroviral treatment failure among children on antiretroviral therapy (ART) during 14 years long-term follow-up study.

RESULT

A total of 336 human immunodeficiency virus-infected children participated in this study with 27 058 child years of observation. The overall incidence rate was 2.1 (95% CI 1.57 to 2.78) per 100 child years. Poor adherence (adjusted HR (AHR); 6.5 (95% CI 2.03 to 21.39)), fair adherence (AHR; 6.55 (95% CI 2.64 to 16.53), the presence of opportunistic infection (AHR; 4.22 (95% CI 1.44 to 12.30), clinical staging of III/IV (AHR; 3.08 (95% CI 1.17 to 8.08) and a baseline CD4 count less than 200 cells/mm³ (AHR; 3.61 (95% CI 1.12 to 11.54)).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of first-line ART failure was found to be high. Baseline opportunistic infection, poor and fair adherence, advanced WHO clinical staging III/IV and a CD4 count less than 200 cells/mm³ were all predictors of first-line treatment failure. Early identification of associated factors and monitoring treatment failure has to be important for the optimal management of HIV-infected children who are receiving ART and to prevent further complications.

First line antiretroviral treatment failure and its association with drug substitution and sex among children in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis

Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) has significantly decreased HIV-related morbidity and mortality among children despite the issue of drug resistance and subsequent treatment failure appearing as a challenge. Different studies have been conducted in Ethiopia regarding the prevalence of first-line ART failure among children but the magnitudes of these studies were inconsistent and had great variability. This review aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of first line ART failure among children and its association with drug substitution and sex of children among first-line ART users in Ethiopia. The review was conducted using both published and unpublished studies until September 2020 in Ethiopia. MEDLINE, PubMed, Hinari, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Africa journal online (AJOL), Open gray literature, and online repository articles were searched. The quality of individual studies was assessed by Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) critical appraisal checklist. The statistical analysis was done by STATA-14 software and a random effect model was used. Heterogeneity was assessed using forest plot Cochrane Q-test and I-squared statistic. Publication bias was checked by using a funnel plot and Egger's and Begg's statistical tests. The interpretation was made by an odds ratio and with their respective 95% confidence intervals. The heterogeneity rate was 90% and Begg's and Egger's for publication bias were insignificant with p-values of 0.89 and 0.11 respectively. The pooled prevalence of pediatric first line ART failure in Ethiopia was 14.98% (95% CI 11.74, 18.21). Subgroup analysis showed that the highest failure rate was virological (9.13%). Female children had 1.4 times more risk of first-line ART failure (OR = 1.42; 95% CI 1.08, 1.85). First-line ART failure among children in Ethiopia is considerably high. Being female increases the likelihood of facing first line ART failure. More attention should be given to female children.

Magnitude and predictors of first-line antiretroviral therapy regimen change among HIV infected adults: A retrospective cross sectional study

Background

Regimen change remains a significant challenge towards the achievement of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment success. In developing countries where limited treatment options are available, strategies are required to ensure the sustainability and durability of the starting regimens. Nevertheless, information regarding the rate and predictors of regimen change is limited in these settings.

Objective

This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and predictors of changes in ART regimens among patients initiating highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) at XX.

Materials and methods

An institutional based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among adult naïve HIV patients who had initiated HAART at XX between 2010. Data were extracted by reviewing their medical charts using a pretested structured check-list. The Kaplan–Meier survival analyses were used to describe the probability of ARV regimen changes while Cox proportional hazard regression models were employed to identify the predictors of ARV regimen modifications. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 software, and statistical significant was deemed at p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 770 patients were enrolled in this study of these 165 (21.43%) had their ART regimen modified at least once. Drug toxicity was the main reason for regimen change followed by TB comorbidity, and treatment failure. Positive baseline TB symptoms (aHR = 1.63, p = 0.037), and Zidovudine based regimen (aHR = 1.76, p = 0.011) as compared to Stavudine based regimen were at higher risk of ART modification. Conversely, urban residence, baseline World Health organization (WHO) stage 2 as compared to WHO stage 1, baseline CD4 count ≥301 as compared to CD4 count ≤200 were at lower risk of ART modification.

Conclusion

The rate of initial HAART regimen change was found to be high. Thus, less toxic and better tolerated HIV treatment options should be available and used more frequently. Moreover, early detection and initiation of ART by the government is highly demanded to maximize the benefit and reduce risk of ART modifications.

•

The majorities (57.4%) of the patients were female and the mean age of the study participants was 32.9 ± 9.5

•

A total of 165 (21.4%) participants experienced antiretroviral regimen changes within two years of follow-up period.

•

The highest rate of treatment modification was found among patients receiving fixed-dose combination of AZT+3 TC + NVP 81 (49.0%).

•

Drug toxicity was the main reason for ARV regimen change, which accounts for 74 (41.3%) of regimen change.

•

Anemia was the main forms of toxicities which accounted for 45(36.3%).

Prevalence and associated factors of treatment failure among children on ART in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

As the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) increases, the issue of treatment failure is still a global challenge, particularly in a resource limited settings including Ethiopia. The results of former studies in Ethiopia were highly variable and inconsistent across studies. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis intended to provide the pooled estimation of treatment failure and associated factors among children on antiretroviral therapy.

METHODS

We searched international databases (i.e., PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Ethiopian Universities' online repository library, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library) during the period of February 30 to April 7, 2021. All identified observational studies reporting the proportion of treatment failure among HIV positive children in Ethiopia were included. Heterogeneity of the studies was checked using I2 test and Cochrane Q test statistics. We run Begg's regression test to assess publication bias. A random-effects meta-analysis model was performed to estimate the pooled prevalence of treatment failure.

RESULTS

The estimated pooled prevalence of treatment failure among children in Ethiopia was 12.34 (95%CI: 8.59, 16.10). Subgroup analysis of this review showed that the highest prevalence was observed in Addis Ababa (15.92%), followed by Oromia region (14.47%). Poor ART adherence (AOR = 2.53, CI: 2.03, 4.97), advanced WHO clinical staging (AOR = 1.66, CI: 1.24, 3.21), and opportunistic infections (AOR = 2.64 CI: 2.19, 4.31 were found to be significantly associated factors with childhood treatment failure.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that treatment failure among children on ART was high in Ethiopia. Poor ART adherence, advanced WHO clinical staging, opportunistic infections, and low level of CD4 cell counts increased the risk of treatment failure.

Incidence and predictors of initial antiretroviral therapy regimen change among children in public health facilities of Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021: multicenter retrospective follow-up study

Background

The inconsistent use of antiretroviral therapy can lead to the risk of cross-resistance between drugs. This reduces subsequent antiretroviral drug options. The burden of initial antiretroviral therapy ranges from 11.3% in South Africa to 71.8% in Malaysia. There is evidence that it is important to maintain children’s initial antiretroviral therapy regimens. However, the incidence and predictive factors of initial antiretroviral therapy regimen changes in the research context are still unknown in the study setting. So, the study was aimed to assess incidence and predictors of initial antiretroviral therapy regimen changes among children in public health facilities of Bahir Dar city.

Methods

A retrospective follow-up study was conducted in 485 children who received antiretroviral therapy between January 1, 2011 and December 30, 2020. These children were selected using simple random sampling techniques. The data were entered by Epi data 3.1 and the analysis was completed by STATA 14.0. The missing data was treated with multiple imputation method. The data were also summarized by median or mean, interquartile range or standard deviation, proportion and frequency. The survival time was determined using the Kaplan Meier curve. The Cox Proportional Hazard model was fitted to identify predictors of initial antiretroviral therapy regimen change. The global and Shoenfeld graphical proportional hazard tests were checked. Any statistical test was considered significant at P-value < 0.05. Finally, the data were presented in the form of tables, graphics and text.

Result

Among the 459 study participants, 315 of them underwent initial regimen changes during the study accumulation period. The shortest and longest follow up time of the study were 1 month and 118 months, respectively. The overall incidence rate of initial regimen change was 1.85, 95% CI (1.66–2.07) per 100 person-month observation and the median follow up time of 49 (IQR 45, 53) months. The independent predictors of initial regimen changes were poor adherence (AHR = 1.49, 95%CI [1.16, 1.92]), NVP based regimen (AHR = 1.45, 95%CI [1.15, 1.84]) comparing to EFV based regimen, LPVr based regimen (AHR = 0.22, 95%CI: (0.07, 0.70)) comparing to EFV based regimen, history of tuberculosis (AHR = 1.59, 95%CI [1.14, 2.23]) and being male (AHR = 1.28, 95%CI [1.02, 1.60]).

Conclusions and recommendations

In this study, the incidence of initial regimen change was high. The risk of initial regimen change would be increased by being male, poor adherence, having history of tuberculosis and NVP based initial regimen. Therefore, strengthening the health care providers’ adherence counseling capability, strengthening tuberculosis screening and prevention strategies and care of initial regimen type choice needs attention in the HIV/AIDS care and treatment programs.

Half-life time prediction of developing first-line antiretroviral treatment failure and its risk factors among TB and HIV co-infected children in Northwest Ethiopia; multi setting historical follow-up study

Background

Even though treatment failure is higher among TB and HIV infected children in a resource-limited setting, there is no prior evidence in general and in the study area in particular. Hence, this study was aimed at determining the half-life time prediction of developing first-line antiretroviral treatment failure and its risk factors among TB and HIV co-infected children.

Methods

A historical follow-up study was employed among 239 TB and HIV co-infected children from January 2010-December 2020. The data was entered into Epi data version 4.2.2 and exported to STATA 14.0 Software for analysis. The Kaplan-Meier plot was used to estimate the half-life time to develop treatment failure. The required assumption was fulfilled for each predictor variable. Additionally, those variables having a p-value ≤0.25 in the bivariable analysis were fitted into a multivariable Cox-proportional hazards regression model. P-value, < 0.05 was used to declare a significant association.

Results

A total of 239 TB and HIV co-infected children were involved in this study. The overall half-life time to develop first treatment failure was found to be 101 months, with a total of 1027.8 years’ follow-up period. The incidence rate and proportion of developing first-line treatment failure were 5.5 per 100 PPY (Person-Year) [CI (confidence interval): 3.7, 6.9] 100 PPY and 23.8% (CI; 18.8, 29.7) respectively. Factors such as hemoglobin 10 mg/dl [AHR (Adjusted Hazard Ratio): 3.2 (95% CI: 1.30, 7.73), severe acute malnutrition [AHR: 3.8 (95% CI: 1.51, 79.65), World Health Organization stage IV [AHR: 2.4 (95% CI: 1.15, 4.93)], and cotrimoxazole prophylaxis non user [AHR: 2.3 (95% CI: 1.14, 4.47)] were found to be a risk factor to develop treatment failure.

Conclusion

In this study, the half-life time to develop first-line treatment failure was found to be very low. In addition, the incidence was found to be very high. The presence of hemoglobin 10 mg/dl, severe acute malnutrition, World Health Organization stage, and non-use of cotrimoxazole prophylaxis were discovered to be risk factors for treatment failure. Further prospective cohort and qualitative studies should be conducted to improve the quality of care in paediatric ART clinics to reduce the incidence or burden of first line treatment failure among TB and HIV co-infected children.

Treatment failure and its associated factors among children receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives:

Over the last decades, large number of children living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been successfully enrolled in care and initiated treatment. However, treatment failure is still a major challenge in the track, missing far too many children. National-level evidence on antiretroviral therapy failure and its associated factors among children receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy is required to alleviate this challenge.

Methods:

PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane library, Google, and Google Scholar databases were used to access eligible studies. This meta-analysis was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. In addition, Newcastle–Ottawa Scale quality assessment was applied for critical appraisal. Cochran’s Q statistic, funnel asymmetry plot, and Egger’s test were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effect model was computed to explore the pooled burden of treatment failure and its associated factors among children living with HIV. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was considered to identify associated factors.

Result:

The overall pooled prevalence of treatment failure among children living with HIV was 16.6%. Whereas virological, immunological, and clinical failure were 4.49%, 5.41%, and 5.71% respectively, where either of parent is deceased (odds ratio = 2.13, 95% confidence interval: 1.4–3.3), opportunistic infection (odds ratio = 1.67, 95% confidence interval: 1.1–2.5), absence of disclosure of status (odds ratio = 1.6, 95% confidence interval: 1.0–2.5), advanced World Health Organization stage (odds ratio = 4.2, 95% confidence interval: 1.6–10.5), and drug substitution (odds ratio = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.5–2.7) were significantly associated factors.

Conclusion:

The pooled prevalence of treatment failure among children living with HIV in Ethiopia was lower when compared to most African countries. Accordingly, either prevention or early treatment of opportunistic infection and advanced World Health Organization clinical stages, special care for children whose either parents are deceased, advocating disclosure of status, and avoiding drug substitution as much as possible were still needed to prevent treatment failure.

Determinants of Virological Failure Among HIV-Infected Children on First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy in West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Background

Viral load monitoring is a golden indicator for diagnosing treatment failure in patients with HIV. HIV-infected children are considered a priority group for routine viral load monitoring. Globally, the World Health Organization recommends 95% of HIV patients have viral suppression. Factors leading to virological failure are not well understood and studied. This study aimed to determine virological failure among HIV-infected children on first-line antiretroviral therapy in the West Gojjam Zone, Amhara region. Ethiopia.

Methods

An institutional-based unmatched case–control study was carried out from October 1 to October 15, 2020, among HIV-infected children on first-line antiretroviral therapy. The study included 94 cases and 276 controls, with a total sample size of 370 out of 378 HIV-infected children. A structured English version checklist was used to collect data through chart review. The data were entered using Epi-data 4.2 and exported into SPSS version 20 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were conducted to summarize the sample characteristics. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to describe each explanatory variable’s association with the outcome variable. A bivariate analysis with a p-value < 0.25 was selected for multivariate analysis. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals was conducted, and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Non-disclosure (AOR = 4.26; 95% CI: 2.09, 8.70), baseline viral load >1000 copies/mL (AOR = 10.82; 95% CI: 5.4, 21.67), recent poor adherence (AOR, 6.05, 95% CI, 1.70, 21.55) and missed clinical appointments (AOR = 8.03; 95% CI: 3.88, 16.65) were factors independently associated with virological failure.

Conclusion

Disclosure of HIV status of patients early, according to their age and adherence to counseling, should be emphasized. Efforts should be strengthened to trace back for missed clinical appointments and strictly follow-up with antiretroviral (ARV) medication for a baseline viral load >1000 copies/mL that helps to boost immunity and suppress viral replication.

Time to First-Line Antiretroviral Treatment Failure and Its Predictors among HIV-Positive Children in Shashemene Town Health Facilities, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, 2019

With expanding pediatric antiretroviral therapy access, children will begin to experience treatment failure and require second-line therapy. In resource-limited settings, treatment failure is often diagnosed based on the clinical or immunological criteria which occur way after the occurrence of virological failure. Previous limited studies have evaluated immunological and clinical failure without considering virological failure in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to investigate time to first-line antiretroviral treatment failure and its predictors in Shashamene town health facilities with a focus on virological criteria. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in three health facilities of Shashamene town, Oromia Regional State, from March 1 to 26, 2019. Children aged less than 15 years living with HIV/AIDS that were enrolled on ART between January 1, 2011, and December 30, 2015, in Shashamene town health facilities were the study population. Data were extracted using a checklist, entered into EpiData version 3.1, and exported to SPSS version 20 for data analysis. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to determine the predictors of time to first-line treatment failure. Result. The median survival time to virological failure was 30 months with IQR of 24.42 to 44.25. Baseline WHO stages 3 and 4 with AHR = 5.69 (95% CI: 2.07–15.66) and NVP-based NNRT at initial treatment with AHR = 2.72 (1.13–6.54) were the independent predictors of time to treatment failure. Conclusion. The median survival time of first-line antiretroviral treatment failure was moderate in the study area as compared to other studies. The incidence density of treatment failure in this study was low as compared to other studies. The finding also demonstrated that children treated with nevirapine-based nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors at initial and advanced WHO clinical stages at baseline were at higher risk of treatment failure.

Different Trends of Distinct Time Points of AIDS Events Following HIV Diagnosis in Various At-risk Populations: A Retrospective Nationwide Cohort Study in Taiwan

Introduction

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) events at distinct time points after human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) diagnosis require various AIDS prevention strategies. However, no nationwide epidemiological surveillance studies have been conducted to explore the trends of distinct AIDS event time points in various at-risk populations. The aim of this study was to explore the issues and characterize the determinants of AIDS status after HIV diagnosis.

Methods

This nationwide cohort study enrolled HIV-positive Taiwanese during 1984–2016. AIDS events were classified into three time points (≤ 3, 4–12, > 12 months) by their occurrence time after HIV diagnosis. The periods of HIV/AIDS diagnosis were divided into six categories according to the calendar year of HIV/AIDS diagnosis: 1984–1991, 1992–1996, 1997–2001, 2002–2006, 2007–2011, and 2012–2016. HIV-positive Taiwanese during 1984–2011 were then selected to determine the factors associated with four AIDS statuses within 5 years after HIV diagnosis (no AIDS, AIDS ≤ 3 months, within 4–12 months, > 12 months) using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

Of 33,142 cases, we identified 15,254 (46%) AIDS events. The overall AIDS incidence (events/100 person-years) peaked during 1992–1996 (20.61), then declined, and finally stabilized from 2002 (8.96–9.82). The evolution of the proportion of distinct time points of AIDS events following HIV diagnosis changed significantly in heterosexuals and intravenous drug users (IDUs) during 1984–2016 (decline at ≤ 3 months in IDUs, decline at 4–12 months in IDUs, and increase at > 12 months in heterosexuals and IDUs) but not among men who have sex with men (MSM). Time points at ≤ 3 months remained at > 50% among MSM and at > 55% among heterosexuals. In multinomial logistic regression, IDUs (vs. men who have sex with men; MSM) had a lower risk of all AIDS statuses; heterosexuals (vs. MSM) had a higher risk of AIDS events ≤ 3 months after HIV diagnosis.

Conclusion

The magnitude of AIDS in Taiwan has been stable since 2002. Enhancing early diagnosis among people with sexual contact and optimizing the HIV care continuum among heterosexuals and IDUs should be priorities for further AIDS prevention strategies.

An assessment of HIV patient's adherence to treatment and need for pharmaceutical care in Jordan

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to explore the barriers and supporting factors for adherence among HIV patients and to explore their needs for pharmaceutical care services.

METHODS

This study utilizes in-depth interviews with HIV patients. Out of 50 patients approached, a total of 30 patients agreed to participate in the study. The researchers used a predesigned topic guide. The interview guide included two parts; the first one focused on the assessment of HIV patients' adherence to their treatment. The second part focused on patients' need for pharmaceutical care services.

RESULTS

Three main themes emerged from the interviews. Those included patient-related factors, medication-related factors and Healthcare professional related factors. This study found that a number of barriers that decreased adherence in HIV patients included stigmatisation, fear from disclosure, dosage form of the drug, adverse events and poor cooperation from healthcare professionals. On the other side supporting factors included family and friends support, electronic mobile reminders, feeling responsible to raising children, religious beliefs and feeling improvement while using therapy. Furthermore, the study illustrated that HIV patients need to have a specialist pharmacist in their healthcare team who delivers specialised pharmaceutical care services which may increase patients' adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study reveals a margin for medication adherence improvement in HIV patients. Patients in this study demonstrated the need for a pharmaceutical care. Future disease management and clinical pharmacy services programs should address the current study findings in order to improve the health service for HIV patients.

Incidence and Predictors of Treatment Failure Among Children Receiving First-Line Antiretroviral Treatment in General Hospitals of Two Zones, Tigray, Ethiopia, 2019

Background

Despite many efforts undertaken to control the human immunodeficiency virus epidemic, it remains to be the major global public health challenge. With expanding access to pediatric antiretroviral therapy, children are more likely to experience treatment failure. All previous studies conducted in Ethiopia estimated treatment failure using only clinical and CD4 criteria. Thus, the ART failure rate is expected to be underestimated in our country.

Objectives of the Study

To assess the incidence and predictors of treatment failure among children receiving first-line ART in general hospitals of Mekelle and Southern Zones of Tigray region, Ethiopia, 2019.

Methods

Retrospective follow up study was employed. The sample size was estimated based on a Log rank test using Stata V-13 and all 404 charts were taken for review. Data were collected by extraction tool; entered using Epi-data manager; cleaned and analyzed by Stata V-14. Data were described using the Kaplan-Meier curve, Log rank test, life table, and crude hazard ratios and analyzed using adjusted hazard ratios and p-value by Cox proportional hazard regression. Any variable at P <0.05 in the bi–variable analysis was taken to multi–variate analysis and significance was declared at P≤ 0.05. Data were presented using tables, charts, and texts.

Results

The incidence rate of ART failure was 8.68 (95% CI 7.1 to 10.6) per 1000 person-month observations with a total of 11,061.5 person-month observations. Children who had tuberculosis at baseline [AHR=2.27; 95% CI 1.12–4.57], advanced recent WHO stage [AHR=5.21; 95% CI 2.75–9.88] and sub-optimal ART adherence [AHR=2.84, 95% CI 1.71–4.72] were at higher hazard for first-line treatment failure. Besides this having a long duration of ART follow up [AHR=0.85; 95% CI 0.82–0.87] was found to be protective against treatment failure.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The incidence of first-line ART failure was grown as a major public health concern. Treatment failure was predicted by the duration of follow up, advanced recent WHO stage, sub-optimal adherence, as well as the presence of tuberculosis at baseline. Hence, it is better to give priority for strengthening the focused evaluation of the WHO clinical stage and tuberculosis co-infection at baseline with continuous adherence monitoring.

HIV/AIDS treatment failure and associated factors in Ethiopia: meta-analysis

Background

The national burden of human immunodeficiency virus treatment failure and associated factors in the Ethiopian context is required to provide evidence towards a renewed ambitious future goal.

Methods

We accessed Ethiopian Universities’ online repository library, Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to get the research articles. We run I-squared statistics to see heterogeneity. Publication bias was checked by using Egger’s regression test. The pooled prevalence was estimated using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. We employed the sensitivity analysis to see the presence of outlier result in the included studies.

Results

The overall human immunodeficiency treatment failure was 15.9% (95% confidence interval: 11.6–20.1%). Using immunological, virological, and clinical definition, human immunodeficiency treatment failure was 10.2% (95% confidence interval: 6.9–13.6%), 5.6% (95% confidence interval: 2.9–8.3%), and 6.3% (95% confidence interval: 4.6–8.0%), respectively. The pooled effects of World Health Organization clinical stage III/IV (Adjusted Odd Ratio = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.3–2.6), presence of opportunistic infections (Adjusted Odd Ratio = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.2–2.4), and poor adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (Adjusted Odd Ratio = 8.1; 95% CI: 4.3–11.8) on HIV treatment failure were estimated.

Conclusions

Human immunodeficiency virus treatment failure in Ethiopia found to be high. Being on advanced clinical stage, presence of opportunistic infections, and poor adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy were the contributing factors of human immunodeficiency virus treatment failure. Human immunodeficiency virus intervention programs need to address the specified contributing factors of human immunodeficiency virus treatment failure. Behavioral intervention to prevent treatment interruption is required to sustain human immunodeficiency virus treatment adherence.

Protocol registration

It has been registered in the PROSPERO database with a registration number of CRD42018100254.

Incidence of common opportunistic infections among HIV-infected children on ART at Debre Markos referral hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Opportunistic infections (OIs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). For better treatments and interventions, current and up-to-date information concerning occurrence of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected children is crucial. However, studies regarding the incidence of common opportunistic infections in HIV-infected children in Ethiopia are very limited. Hence, this study aimed to determine the incidence of opportunistic infections among HIV-infected children on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at Debre Markos Referral Hospital.

Methods

A facility-based retrospective cohort study was undertaken at Debre Markos Referral Hospital for the period of January 1, 2005 to March 31, 2019. A total of 408 HIV-infected children receiving ART were included. Data from HIV-infected children charts were extracted using a data extraction form adapted from ART entry and follow-up forms. Data were entered using Epi-data™ Version 3.1 and analyzed using Stata™ Version 14. The Kaplan Meier survival curve was used to estimate the opportunistic infections free survival time. Both bi-variable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were fitted to identify the predictors of opportunistic infections.

Results

This study included the records of 408 HIV-infected children-initiated ART between the periods of January 1, 2005 to March 31, 2019. The overall incidence rate of opportunistic infections during the follow-up time was 9.7 (95% CI: 8.13, 11.48) per 100 child-years of observation. Tuberculosis at 29.8% was the most commonly encountered OI at follow-up. Children presenting with advanced disease stage (III and IV) (AHR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2, 2.7), having “fair” or “poor” ART adherence (AHR: 2.6, 95% CI: 1.8, 3.8), not taking OI prophylaxis (AHR:1.6, 95% CI: 1.1, 2.4), and CD4 count or % below the threshold (AHR:1.7, 95% CI: 1.1, 2.6) were at a higher risk of developing opportunistic infections.

Conclusions

In this study, the incidence rate of opportunistic infections among HIV-infected children remained high. Concerning predictors, such as advanced disease stage (III and IV), CD4 count or % below the threshold, “fair” or “poor” ART adherence, and not taking past OI prophylaxis were found to be significantly associated with OIs.

Magnitude and causes of first-line antiretroviral therapy regimen changes among HIV patients in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has markedly decreased the morbidity and mortality due to HIV/AIDS. ART regimen change is a major challenge for the sustainability of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment program. This is found to be a major concern among HIV/AIDS patients in a resource-limited setting, where treatment options are limited.

Objectives

The aim of this review is to generate the best available evidence regarding the magnitude of first-line antiretroviral therapy regimen change and the causes for regimen change among HIV patients on ART in Ethiopia.

Methods

The reviewed studies were accessed through electronic web-based search strategy from PubMed Medline, EMBASE, Hinari, Springer link and Google Scholar. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel and exported to Stata software version 13 for analyses. The overall pooled estimation of outcomes was calculated using a random-effect model of DerSimonian–Laird method at 95% confidence level. Heterogeneity of studies was determined using I² statistics. For the magnitude of regimen change, the presence of publication bias was evaluated using the Begg’s and Egger’s tests. The protocol of this systematic review and meta-analysis was registered in the Prospero database with reference number ID: CRD42018099742. The published methodology is available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=99742.

Results

A total of 22 studies published between the years 2012 and 2018 were included. Out of 22 articles, 14 articles reported the magnitude of regimen change and consisted of 13,668 HIV patients. The estimated national pooled magnitude of regimen change was 37% (95% CI: 34, 44%; Range: 15.1–63.8%) with degree of heterogeneity (I²), 98.7%; p-value < 0.001. Seventeen articles were used to identify the causes for first-line antiretroviral therapy regimen change. The major causes identified were toxicity, 58% (95% CI: 46, 69%; Range: 14.4–88.5%); TB co-morbidity, 12% (95% CI: 8, 16%; Range: 0.8–31.7%); treatment failure, 7% (95% CI: 5, 9%; Range: 0.4–24.4%); and pregnancy, 5% (95% CI: 4, 7%; Range: 0.6–11.9%).

Conclusions

The original first-line regimen was changed in one-third of HIV patients on ART in Ethiopia. Toxicity of the drugs, TB co-morbidity, treatment failure, and pregnancy were the main causes for the change of the first-line regimen among HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy.

Treatment failure and associated factors among first line patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) restores immune function and reduces human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) related adverse outcomes. The results of previous studies in Ethiopia were replete with inconsistent findings; nonexistence of national representative figures and determinant factors are found as significant gap. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the existing evidence on ART treatment failure and associated factors in Ethiopia.

Methods

Relevant studies on ART treatment failure were retrieved from international databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct systematically prior to March 14, 2019. All identified studies reporting the proportion of first line treatment failure among HIV patients in Ethiopia were included. Two authors independently extracted all necessary data using a standardized data extraction format. A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled estimates and associated factors in Stata/se Version-14. The Cochrane Q test statistics and I ² tests were used to assess the heterogeneity of the studies.

Results

From 18 articles reviewed; the pooled proportion of first line treatment failure among ART users in Ethiopia was 15.3% (95% CI: 12, 18.6) with (I ² = 97.9%, p < 0.001). The subgroup analysis by World Health Organization (WHO) treatment failure assessment criteria were carried out, accordingly the highest prevalence (11.5%) was noted on immunological and the lowest (5.8%) was observed virological treatment failure. We had found poor adherence (OR = 8.6, 95% CI: 5.6, 13.4), not disclosed (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.5, 3.0), advanced WHO clinical stage III/IV (OR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.5, 3.8), change in regimen (OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.6, 3.9) and being co-infected (OR = 2.56, 95% CI: 2.2, 3.0) were statistically significant factors for treatment failure.

Conclusion

In this study, treatment failure among ART users in Ethiopia was significant. Adherence, co-infection, advanced WHO clinical stage, regimen change, and disclosure are determinant factors for treatment failure. Therefore, improve drug adherence, prevent co-infection, close follow up, and prevent HIV-drug resistance are required in future remedial efforts.

Incidence and predictors of treatment failure among children on first-line antiretroviral therapy in Amhara Region Referral Hospitals, northwest Ethiopia 2018: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a major public health concern globally, especially in sub-Saharan African countries. Even though determining the incidence of treatment failure and its predictor is a crucial step to reduce the problem, there is limited information indicating the incidence and predictors of treatment failure among children in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the incidence and predictors of treatment failure among children on first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Amhara Region referral hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia.

METHODS

An institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted from January 30, 2011, to January 30, 2018. A total of 402 children on first-line antiretroviral therapy were selected with a simple random sampling method in Amhara Region Referral Hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia. Data were extracted by reviewing patients' ART intake and follow-up forms using pretested and structured checklists. The collected data were entered into Epidata Version 4.2 and analysis was done using STATA Version 13. Bivariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were fitted to identify predictors of treatment failure.

RESULTS

A total of 402 records of children on antiretroviral therapy (ART) were reviewed and treatment failures rate within the follow-up period were 12.19% (95% CI: 8.5, 15.88). This study also found that the overall incidence density rate was 3.77% per 100 person-years observation. Virologic failure accounts 48.98% followed by immunologic (28.57%) and mixed failures (22.44%). Poor ART adherence (AHR: 4.6, 95%CI: 1.61, 13.20), drug regimens, AZT-3TC-NVP (AHR: 5.2, 95%CI: 1.9, 14.26), and AZT-3TC-EFV (AHR: 6.26, 95% CI: 1.88, 20.87), Children whose both parent were died (AHR: 2.8, 95%CI: 1.07, 7.37) and world health organization (WHO) clinical stage-4 (AHR: 2.95, 95%CI: 1.04, 8.366) were found to be predictors for treatment failure among children.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of treatment failure among children on first-line ART in Amhara Region referral hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia was found to be high. Nearly half of the children experienced Virologic failure. Poor ART adherence, children whose parents`died without parents, WHO clinical stage-4 at baseline and type of regimen patients took were found to be predictors of first-line ART treatment failure. Therefore, expanding access to routine viral load, CD4 and clinical monitoring is mandatory to detect and early intervene of treatment failures' to improve outcomes for children on ART. Patient caregivers or parents should strictly support children on medication adherence. Training to health professionals should be given time-based on revised guidelines, and follow up of treatment outcome should be monitored nationally to take the appropriate intervention.