Malawi Sees 10% Decrease in HIV Transmission Rate, Emphasizes Early Testing and Treatment
EGPAF actively supports comprehensive advanced HIV disease programs in over 400 sites across five countries, including Malawi, Kenya, Lesotho, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.
Lilongwe, Malawi - A recent survey conducted by the Elizabeth Glaser Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other organizations, has reported a significant 10% decrease in the rate of HIV transmission in the country, writes Chifundo Kudzula Gondwe.
The findings also reveal that, as of June this year, out of one million individuals who had tested HIV positive, 900,000 are still alive and actively receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment.
However, the survey also uncovers a concerning statistic, indicating that out of every 10 individuals who undergo HIV testing, three have advanced HIV disease.
Rose Nyirenda, Director in the Ministry of Health's Department of HIV, STI, and Viral Hepatitis, attributes much of the recent success to the intermittent uptake of ARVs, which has led to the suppression of the HIV virus.
Nevertheless, Nyirenda emphasises the urgent need to enhance HIV testing throughout Malawi so that individuals can access treatment in a timely manner.
She revealed that the Malawi government has taken significant steps by contributing to the purchase of ARVs, reducing the country's dependence on donor funding for this vital task.
The research project, a collaboration between the Elizabeth Glaser Foundation and the Ministry of Health, aimed to identify patients with advanced HIV disease in a timely manner. It also involved screening for other HIV-related diseases that often lead to mortality.
Dr. Eddie Matiya, a Project Lead at the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) Malawi, shared that current statistics indicate that approximately 30% of those living with HIV in Malawi's health facilities have advanced HIV disease.
This points to the fact that many individuals are seeking medical help late, while some are unfortunately defaulting on their treatment.
Dr. Matiya calls for the enhancement of the "Pompopompo" treatment strategy, which involves initiating immediate treatment for individuals who test positive for HIV.
Those with advanced HIV disease are at high risk of death, even after beginning ARV treatment, and they remain susceptible to opportunistic infections such as tuberculosis, severe bacterial infections, and cryptococcal meningitis.
EGPAF actively supports comprehensive advanced HIV disease programs in over 400 sites across five countries, including Malawi, Kenya, Lesotho, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.