D. P. Danave1, S. N. Kothadia2, N. K. Shaikh3
OBJECTIVES: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome have created havoc due to high morbidity and mortality. Apart from anti- retroviral therapy (ART) there is no effective line of management available for this infection. Preventive strategies remain the mainstay to curb this epidemic. We undertook this study for estimating the prevalence and risk factors of HIV infection in our local population. This would help us to plan appropriate interventions for minimizing and preventing HIV infections.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted from January – December 2004, in Integrated Counselling and Testing Center (ICTC) affiliated to our institute. After pre-test counselling, blood samples were collected from 1694 patients. They were subjected to Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and rapid tests -Comb AIDS, Tri Dot & ACON under strict quality control.
RESULTS: Out of 1694 patients, seropositive males and females were 297 (17.53%) and 166 (9.79%) respectively. Heterosexual behaviour (35.20%) and parent to child transmission (10.36%) were the major routes of transmission of HIV infection. Amongst infected patients labourers, farmers and housewives were high in numbers.
CONCLUSIONS: Behavioural interventions and risk factor modifications are important targets in controlling the HIV epidemic.
