Factors Associated with Viral Load Suppression among Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Positive Adolescents and Young Adults in Ngororero District, Rwanda

Abstract

BackgroundOptimal viral load suppression results from good adherence to treatment. The viral load suppression advantages include the reduction of virus transmission. In Rwanda, however, viral load suppression among adolescents and young adults has been proven relatively low than in other age groups.ObjectivesTo assess the factors associated with viral load suppression among adolescent and young adults in Ngororero district, Rwanda.MethodsA cross sectional study that included 151 adolescents and young adults aged from 15 to 24 years was conducted in Ngororero district. Data were entered in Epi-Info version 7 software and analyzed using STATA15.ResultsFemales and males were 68% and 32% respectively. Sixty percent of the participants were aged 20-24 years. Multivariable analysis revealed the factors associated with viral load suppression: Ubudehe category 2, P= 0.016, AOR = 6.6, CI [1.4, 31.1]; ubudehe category 3, P= 0.004, AOR = 8.9, CI [2.01,39.8]; spending between 5 to 9 years on ART, P= 0.022, AOR = 0.16 [CI0.03, 0.89;) and often forget to take medication, P= 0.011, AOR = 0.35, CI [0.13, 0.97.]ConclusionViral load suppression among adolescents and young adults was low. Improving socio-economic conditions of adolescents and young adults, as well as provision of continuous counselling to them during their whole treatment life can improve significantly their adherence.Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2023;6(1):43-52