P485 Predictors of loss-to-follow-up among HIV infected MSM on treatment at a (trusted) community health centre in lagos, nigeria. (14th July 2019) - Adejimi, Adebola
Abstract : Background: Antiretroviral Therapy(ART) has been shown to reduce transmission of HIV and HIV-related morbidity and mortality. Despite improved and highly successful coverage with ART, HIV programmes around the world have recorded appreciable rise in the numbers of clients who drop out of care at different points. The objective of this study was to determine the predictors of Lost-To-Follow-Up(LTFU) among HIV infected Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) on treatment at a (Trusted) Community Health Centre in Lagos, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among clients who have been LTFU amongst MSM in HIV care at a (Trusted) Community Health Centre. Active clients on ART were separated from those LTFU, those transferred out and those who died using the PEPFAR software, Retention and Audit Determination Tool(RADET). The clinic folders of the LTFU clients was the source of sociodemographic information (age at start of ART, employment status, occupation etc) as well as clinical information such as staging, last clinic visit date. A semi-structured questionnaire adapted from literature was modified and administered via telephone or in person at any venue of participant's choice to all the selected participants.Data analysis was done using SPSS. Chi-square statistics was used to determine association between variables and binary logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of LTFU. The level of significance was placed at 5%. Results: The mean age of the cohort was 25±5years. Of 150 patients identified, 108(72%) patients were genuinely defined as LTFU as they were not enrolled for treatment anywhere else. Patients with low income, no children, suffered stigma and discrimination among family were at higher risk of LTFU. Travelled out of town, medication side effects were the most common reasons for LTFU. Conclusion: Many MSM on treatment were LTFU. Effective control measures targeting high-risk population should be implemented to improve retention and reduce LTFU. Disclosure: No significant relationships.