The Persistence of Mother-To-Child Transmission of HIV in Njombe Town Council in Tanzania

Abstract

Introduction

The HIV epidemic poses a dire threat to global public health.  With an estimated 78 million people infected worldwide and a staggering 39 million deaths attributed to HIV-related causes, the scale of this crisis demands immediate and continued action. This article examined the factors contributing to the ongoing transition of HIV from mother to their children in Njombe Town Council, Tanzania.

Methods

This study employed a mixed methods approach with a cross-sectional design. The data were collected from 90 participants, including HIV-positive mothers’ and key informants. Participants were selected purposefully, and data were collected using interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results

The study identified various factors contributing to the ongoing challenge of preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV. These factors include demographic and socioeconomic factors (age, marital status, education, occupation, spousal support), health-seeking behavior and cultural aspects (voluntary HIV testing, willingness to seek antenatal and postnatal services, stigmatization), health facility-related factors (availability of healthcare providers, their attitude towards infected mothers), and distance to health facilities.

Conclusion

Mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Njombe Town Council persists primarily due to demographic and socio-economic factors, cultural and healthcare-related factors, and distance to health facilities. The study identifies a multi-pronged approach to tackle mother-to-child HIV transmission. This includes securing more funding for healthcare improvements, training more medical professionals, including HIV specialists, and promoting early prenatal care. It also emphasizes raising public awareness to fight HIV stigma and getting men involved in both preventing and treating the disease.