| dc.contributor.author | Gachoka, Lilian N. | |
| dc.contributor.author | Njoroge, Anne | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2026-03-23T11:25:56Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2026-03-23T11:25:56Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2025 | |
| dc.identifier.uri | 10.1177/30502225251311664 | |
| dc.identifier.uri | http://repository.mut.ac.ke:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/6775 | |
| dc.description.abstract | Introduction. Viral suppression rates among children and young adolescents living with HIV (CYALHIV) has been
reported to be lower compared to adults. Follow up through viral load monitoring may influence their health
outcomes. Objective. In this cross-sectional study we determined viral load monitoring practices and correlates of viral
non-suppression of all CYALHIV in the main public hospitals in Kiambu County, Kenya. Data was abstracted from
electronic medical records. Methods. Multivariable log binomial regression was used to estimate prevalence ratios
(PR) and assess correlates of viral non-suppression. Adherence to viral load testing guidelines was also assessed.
Viral non-suppression was defined as a viral load (VL) >1000c/ml. Results. Of the 252 CYALHIV, the median age was
11 (IQR: 7-13) years. At the most current VL, 14% were non-suppressed. Correlates of non-suppression included
a history of Tuberculosis, [aPR=4.25; 95% CI=1.41-12.8; p=.01], antiretroviral drug side effects [aPR=3.01; 95%
CI=1.37-6.62; p=0.006] and having received enhanced adherence counselling (EAC) [aPR=5.32; 95% CI=2.00-
14.15; p=.001]. Although the timing of baseline VL tests improved over the years, routine VL monitoring as per the
guidelines remained suboptimal. Conclusions. There is need for adherence to VL monitoring guidelines for prompt
action among non-suppressed children. | en_US |
| dc.language.iso | en | en_US |
| dc.publisher | Sage Open Pediatrics | en_US |
| dc.subject | children living with HIV, viral non-suppression, viral load monitoring, Kenya, electronic medical records Received July 10, 2024. Received revised October 28, 2024. Accepted for publication December 13, 2024. | en_US |
| dc.title | Viral Load Monitoring Practices and Correlates of Viral Non-suppression Among Children and Young Adolescents Living With HIV in Kiambu County, Kenya | en_US |
| dc.type | Article | en_US |
