Abstract:

Background: Viral load rebound in HIV positive people refers to the recurrence of detectable quantities of HIV RNA in the circulation following initial suppression with antiretroviral therapy. This study investigates the occurrence and determinants of viral load rebound among HIV clients who had viral load suppression in Mwanza, Tanzania. Despite the efficacy of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in decreasing viral replication, rebound poses a substantial obstacle to HIV treatment outcomes and transmission control. The lack of knowledge about the epidemiology of rebound in Mwanza demands further research to better understand its causal effects. The study's goal was to identify prevalence and factors that contribute to rebound so as to suggest possible interventions and ultimately minimize transmission rates in the region.

Method: Retrospective hospital-based study was conducted at Bugando Medical Centre-Clinic and Treatment Centre from May to August, 2024 using the archived data stored between July, 2020 to June, 2023. The stored medical records of 416 HIV clients were reviewed from client’s files and CTC 2 database and then abstracted by using well prepared abstraction form/checklist. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA version 15 software to obtain the factors associated viral loads rebounds.

Results: Prevalence of HIV viral load rebound among clients with previous viral suppression was found to be 11.78% with poor ART adherence and comorbid diseases as factors with strong association with viral load rebound.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that some clients who previously achieved viral load suppression they still encounter viral loads rebounds despite substantial breakthroughs in HIV treatment and care. So, findings emphasize the need for enhanced ART adherence support and comprehensive management of comorbid conditions as part of HIV care.