Prevalence and Characteristics of HIV-1 Infection among HIV-positive Individuals in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Aims: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of HIV-1 among HIV positive individuals in Anambra State, and determine some clinical and demographic factors associated with HIV-1 prevalence in the study population. Study Design:  Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi; St. Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital (SCBSH), Onitsha; and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Awka between October 2023 to February 2024. Methodology: 200 HIV/AIDS-positive samples were collected from participants attending Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) clinic at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi; St. Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital (SCBSH), Onitsha; and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Awka. Following the manufacturer’s standard operating procedures, HIV-1 screening was conducted using rapid screening and western blot assay to detect HIV-1-specific antibodies. Socio-demographic information of the participants was gathered using a structured questionnaire. Results: The study results indicated that HIV-1 prevalence was 96.5% (193/200) in Anambra State, with 84.4% viral suppression and 71.0% having CD4 counts ≥500 cells/mm³. Most participants (83.4%) reported perfect ART adherence, though forgetfulness (40.6%) was the main barrier among those who missed doses. Alarm reminders were widely used (52.8%). The participants were predominantly female (57.0%), middle-aged (mean 41.7 years), and business-employed (55.4%). Moderate-risk sexual behavior (13.5% with >2 partners) and low opportunistic infections (12.4%) were observed. Health workers provided most HIV information (58.5%). Conclusion: This study investigated the prevalence of HIV-1 infection among HIV positive individuals in Anambra State, revealing a high prevalence. Multiple social vulnerability factors and high-risk behaviors contribute to HIV transmission in communities, necessitating culturally adapted intervention programs. A critical unmet need remains in improving HIV diagnosis and treatment access in Anambra state.