Abstract:

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains one of the world's significant public health challenges. Achieving optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for successful management of HIV infection and attaining viral load outcomes specifically among patients diagnosed within six months of initiating first-line ART. Study objective was to o determine adherence and viral load suppression among newly 6 months diagnosed patients on the first line Anti-retroviral therapy regime attending at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC).

Methodology: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 newly diagnosed HIV patients in BMC from May to June 2023 Mwanza, Tanzania. Information on socio-demographics, immunological, viral load (VL) of patients on anti-viral therapy use and other relevant records were extracted from the patients care records.

Results: We had a total of only 150 patients (a total of 52 males and 98 females) enrolled with the median age of 37. 88.67% of the patients adhered to the treatment therapy while 11.33% did not adhere to treatment.

Conclusion: This retrospective study highlights the critical importance of adherence to first-line ART among newly diagnosed HIV patients during the initial six months of treatment. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to support patients in maintaining optimal adherence and achieving viral load suppression, ultimately improving their long-term health outcomes. Implementing patient-centred support strategies, such as counselling, education, and early detection of adherence barriers, may help enhance treatment success rates and reduce the risk of disease progression and drug resistance.