CHANGING AWARENESS, TESTING AND TRANSMISSION OF HIV IN PREGNANCY
Main Article Content
Keywords
HIV, Prevention, Mother-to-child transmission, Antenatal population, PMTCT.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a global health concern, with sexual transmission being predominant in India, accounting for 86% of cases. Despite a decline in HIV incidence, the prevalence remains significant, affecting approximately 2.3 million people in India. Henceforth, this study aimed to assess changes in the level of testing and mother-to-child transmission (MTCT).
METHODOLOGY: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted at the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) centre, analyzing records of patients from January 2012 to December 2013 and January 2021 to December 2022. Data included testing, sociodemographic factors, and pregnancy outcomes.
RESULTS: In 2012-2013, 11,232 patients were tested, with a 0.5% prevalence among antenatal patients. The recent period of 2021-2022 saw increased testing (20,767), with a decreased prevalence of 0.3%. Notably, the MTCT rate dropped to 3%. Analysis of age, parity, literacy, and residential distribution revealed changing trends. Migrant labourers remained predominant, and antenatal outcomes showed a shift over time.
CONCLUSION: Seropositivity among antenatal populations poses a significant challenge. While national programs show progress, there is a need to address complexities in HIV seropositivity. Bridging gaps in reproductive health and targeted interventions are imperative.
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Dr. Ruma Sarkar
Professor and HOD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, B.R.D. Medical College and Hospital, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Dr. Shoadashi Saxena
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, B.R.D. Medical College and Hospital, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Dr. Ranjana Sarkar
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shri Ramkrishna Institute of Medical Science & Sanaka Hospital, Malandighi, Durgapur, West Bengal, India.
Dr. Rachana Bhatnagar
Professor, Department of Paediatrics, B.R.D. Medical College and Hospital, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.