Abstract:

It is important to monitor HIV clients in ART treatment using viral load testing in an effort to meet the third 95 strategy of UNAIDS 95-95-95, which is viral load suppression. The target “95-95-95” strategy is expected to be achieved by 2030. Unfortunately, there is insufficient regional data, especially in the third “95”. Screening for viral load in low- and middle-income countries allows VLS monitoring of individual categories and demographics, necessary to achieve global epidemic control. The aim of this study was to find progress in the three [3] rural health centers in Ndola District on the achievement of VLS among HIV-positive patients on ART and related factors affecting the program. Sociodemography data, including age, gender, drug type and duration of treatment and laboratory variability [current viral load results], were extracted from client records using the SmartCare system. VL suppression and failure are determined using WHO definitions [viral pressure such as viral load <1000 copies/ml and virologic failure ≥1000 copies/ml]. Regular clinic [used as a proxy for adherence to medication and medication] will be defined as monthly clinical access to HAART treatment and other clinical management over the past 12 months.

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