Analysis of the prevalence of HIV and its vertical transmission in pregnant ecuadorian women during the period 2017-2019

Authors

  • Santiago Xavier Peñarreta Quezada
  • Yesenia Mishell Revelo Requena
  • Melany Daniela Morales Aguilar
  • Mónica Priscila Pazmiño Imbaquingo

Keywords:

HIV, vertical transmission, pregnant women, prevalence, Ecuador.

Abstract

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus remains a significant public health concern, especially among pregnant women due to the risk of vertical transmission. The objective of the study was to analyze the prevalence of HIV and its vertical transmission in pregnant Ecuadorian women during the period 2017-2019. An observational, retrospective, and descriptive study was conducted through the review and analysis of secondary data obtained from the annual HIV/AIDS and Perinatal Exposures bulletins of the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador. The study population included all pregnant women and those with HIV during the years 2017, 2018, and 2019. The variables analyzed were the number of cases of pregnant women with HIV, the total number of pregnant women, the geographical distribution of cases, sociodemographic characteristics, and access to screening and antiretroviral treatment. The results showed that the prevalence of HIV in pregnant women remained stable between 0.16 % and 0.18 % during the study period. The highest number of cases was concentrated in the provinces of Guayas and Esmeraldas. Despite a high coverage of antiretroviral treatment (81 %), significant gaps persisted in access to screening and prenatal follow-up, with considerable dropout after the first prenatal check-up. The study concludes by highlighting the need for targeted strategies in high-prevalence areas and improvements in screening and treatment services to eliminate vertical transmission of HIV and ensure maternal and child health in Ecuador.

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Published

2024-11-04

How to Cite

1.
Peñarreta Quezada SX, Revelo Requena YM, Morales Aguilar MD, Pazmiño Imbaquingo MP. Analysis of the prevalence of HIV and its vertical transmission in pregnant ecuadorian women during the period 2017-2019. Rev Cubana Inv Bioméd [Internet]. 2024 Nov. 4 [cited 2025 Dec. 7];43. Available from: https://revibiomedica.sld.cu/index.php/ibi/article/view/3539