HIV in pregnant woman and children: Mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV in the Brazilian land border from 2010 to 2021

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to analyze the profile and trends of HIV mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT) in the Brazilian land border strip (LBS).MethodsThis was a quantitative, ecological, and cross‐sectional study using secondary data available in the information systems of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. All cases reported in the Notifiable Diseases Information System between 2010 and 2021 were studied.ResultsBetween 2010 and 2021, 275 children were born infected through MTCT, and 6076 pregnant women were living with HIV in the Brazilian LBS. HIV detection rates in pregnant women increased in all border arcs. The northern arc experienced the highest increase (19.6%), followed by the central arc (11.4%), and the southern arc (6.1%). Despite historically high detection rates, the southern arc exhibited the smallest increase. While MTCT rate decreased by 37.7% in the border area, the central arc showed no statistically significant reduction. In 2021, the average age of pregnant women was 26.2 years, 25.7% had up to 8 years of schooling, and 55.8% identified as non‐white. The majority (92.8%) received antenatal care, and 59.7% were diagnosed with HIV before prenatal care. The use of prophylactic antiretroviral therapy during prenatal care occurred in 69.6% of pregnant women, and infant prophylaxis was provided within first 24 h to 43.6% of live births.ConclusionThe results indicate progress in reducing MTCT cases in Brazilian LBS. Disparities in HIV detection rates may be influenced by differences in testing uptake, despite mandatory testing for all babies. It is crucial to continue implementing strategies to reach these women and ensure equitable access to healthcare services for MTCT prevention.