BACKGROUNDTo assess the impact of combination HIV prevention (CHP) on HIV incidence, we analyzed the association between HIV incidence and scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and medical male circumcision in Rakai, Uganda. Changes in population-level viral load suppression and sexual behaviors were also examined.METHODSBetween 1999 and 2016, data were collected through 12 surveys from 30 communities in the Rakai Community Cohort Study, an open population-based cohort of persons aged 15-49 years. We assessed HIV incidence trends based on observed seroconversion data, self-reported ART and male circumcision coverage, viral load suppression, and sexual behaviors.RESULTSIn total, 33,937 study participants contributed 103,011 person-visits (HIV prevalence ~13%). Follow-up of 17,870 HIV-negative persons contributed 94,427 person-years with 931 seroconversions. ART was introduced in 2004; by 2016 coverage was 69% (72% in women vs. 61% in men, p<0.001). HIV viral load suppression among all HIV-positive persons increased from 42% in 2009 to 75% by 2016 (p<0.001). Male circumcision coverage increased from 15% in 1999 to 59% by 2016 (p<0.001). Persons 15-19 years reporting n 71 ever having sex increased from 30% to 55% (p<0.0001). HIV incidence declined by 42% in 2016 relative to the pre-CHP period prior to 2010 (1.17/100 py to 0.66/100 py; adjIRR:0.58: 95%CI: 0.45-0.76); declines were greater in men (adjIRR=0.46; 95%CI: 0.29-0.73) than women (adjIRR=0.68, 95%CI: 0.50-0.94).CONCLUSIONSIn this longitudinal study, HIV incidence significantly declined with CHP scale-up, providing empiric evidence that HIV control interventions can have substantial population-level impact. However, additional efforts are needed to overcome gender disparities and achieve HIV elimination.

HIV disease progression is affected by HIV-1 subtype. This finding may impact decisions on when to initiate antiretroviral therapy and may have implications for future trials of HIV-1 vaccines aimed at slowing disease progression.

BackgroundIn 2012, Uganda started implementing lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) for prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) in line with the WHO 2012 guidelines. This study explored experiences of HIV infected pregnant and breastfeeding women regarding barriers and facilitators to uptake and adherence to lifelong ART.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional qualitative study conducted in three districts (Masaka, Mityana and Luwero) in Uganda, between February and May 2014. We conducted in-depth interviews with 57 pregnant and breastfeeding women receiving care in six health facilities, who had been on lifelong ART for at least 6 months. Data analysis was done using a content thematic approach with Atlas-ti software.ResultsInitiation of lifelong ART was done the same day the mother tested HIV positive. Several women felt the counselling was inadequate and had reservations about taking ART for life. The main motivation to initiate and adhere to ART was the desire to have an HIV-free baby. Adherence was a challenge, ranging from not taking the drugs at the right time, to completely missing doses and clinic appointments. Support from their male partners and peer family support groups enhanced good adherence. Fear to disclose HIV status to partners, drug related factors (side effects and the big size of the tablet), and HIV stigma were major barriers to ART initiation and adherence. Transition from antenatal care to HIV chronic care clinics was a challenge due to fear of stigma and discrimination.ConclusionsIn order to maximize the benefits of lifelong ART, adequate preparation of women before ART initiation and on-going support through family support groups and male partner engagement are critical, particularly after birth and cessation of breastfeeding.

Consistent condom use provides protection from HIV and STDs, whereas inconsistent use is not protective. Programs must emphasize consistent condom use for HIV and STD prevention.