Serovirological Outcomes and Predictors of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission in Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/ijhmnp.3714Keywords:
Mother-to-child transmission, Infants, HIV, Serovirologic, Risk factors, PMTCT, Mbandaka.Abstract
AbstractPurpose: MTCT of HIV remains high in the DRC due to limited programme coverage, delayed maternal diagnosis, and poor ART adherence. This study evaluated newborn serovirological status in Mbandaka and identified key MTCT determinants.
Methods: A prospective quantitative descriptive and analytical study was conducted at the DREAM Centre of Excellence, including 91 mother–infant pairs. Data were obtained using structured questionnaires complemented by a review of clinical records, and subsequently analysed through logistic regression based on the Wald test. Among the 91 infants included, two cases (2.2%) were found to be HIV-positive, a proportion exceeding the threshold recommended by the World Health Organization.
Results: The results obtained in this study reveal the identification of factors significantly associated with mother-to-child HIV transmission. These include poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) observed in women, associated with a high risk of HIV transmission (OR = 11.04; 95% CI [3.35-38.68]; p = 0.02). Added to this is the absence of cotrimoxazole prophylaxis (OR = 1.00; 95% CI [0.97-1.04]; p = 0.02). 95% CI [3.35-38.68]; p = 0.02). Added to this is the absence of cotrimoxazole prophylaxis (OR = 5.10; 95% CI [1.14-23.29]; p = 0.03) and the absence of neonatal ARV prophylaxis (OR = 16.11; 95% CI [2.91-89.09]; p < 0.001) were highly associated with high rates of infection. In this regard, home births remain high, as does late diagnosis of maternal HIV infection (OR = 18.32; 95% CI [1.97-170.18]; p = 0.01).
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy : These results indicate the need to improve ART adherence, promote early HIV testing during prenatal care, and ensure consistent prophylactic coverage for mothers and infants in order to achieve effective and sustainable reduction of mother-to-child HIV transmission in the city of Mbandaka in Equateur Province.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Jean Claude Efoloko Likulu, Jean Pierre Moyene Elongi, Félicien Kandolo Tshimungu, Patrick Mundembe, Jules Moti Kangite, Monizi Mawunu
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