HIV-status and healthcare needs of primary caregivers of HIV-infected children in the ARROW (AntiRetroviral Research for Watoto) trial in Zimbabwe
Abstract
The HIV-status and healthcare needs of primary caregivers of HIV-infected children in the ARROW (AntiRetroviral Research for Watoto) trial in Zimbabwe was assessed using questionnaires. A total of 400 children were enrolled to ARROW in Zimbabwe. The results showed that the majority of primary caregivers of children at enrolment in the ARROW trial in Zimbabwe are biological parents who are HIV positive and have access to ART. Other primary caregivers were less likely to know their HIV status. The carers who are not the biological parents of the children have remained reluctant to get tested whilst older caregivers did not always see the need to be tested at their age. There is a need to establish a family-centred approach to HIV care in order to meet the healthcare needs of caregivers and improve long-term survival of the children in their care.
Citation
Mudzingwa, S.; Sengayi, M.; Bwakura-Dangarembizi, M.; Mandidewa, R.; Dzapasi, R.; Marozva, C.; Katanda, C.; Nyoni, D.; Chipiti, M.; Muchabaiwa, D.; Maturure, J.; Mapinge, F.; Kibenge, R.; Musinguzi Bwango, M.; Asello, J.; Naidoo, B.; Nathoo, K.J. HIV-status and healthcare needs of primary caregivers of HIV-infected children in the ARROW (AntiRetroviral Research for Watoto) trial in Zimbabwe. Presented at 5th IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention, 19-22 July 2009, Cape Town, South Africa. (2009) 1 pp.
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