Congo/ Fighting HIV/AIDS: improving the quality of care

Enhancing knowledge of HIV/AIDS care to improve quality was one of the issues addressed by healthcare professionals, political players and representatives of United Nations organizations in the Congo at a scientific day organized in Brazzaville to mark World AIDS Day.

"The objective of this scientific day is to contribute to the reinforcement of knowledge on the management of HIV; to the promotion of best practices in biological monitoring; to the popularization of scientific advances on the epidemic through awareness of the rights of those affected. The aim of this scientific day is to contribute to the reinforcement of knowledge on the management of HIV; the promotion of best biological monitoring practices; the popularization of scientific advances on the epidemic through awareness of the rights of those affected", explained the Minister of Health and Population, Gilbert Mokoki, opening the proceedings.

The scientific day's presentations covered, among other topics, the epidemiological situation of HIV/AIDS in the Congo; the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS and their biological monitoring; and testimonials from people living with the disease.

Estimates for 2023 cited by Minister Gilbert Mokoki indicate that some 120,000 people living with HIV, for a prevalence of 3.2%, are aged between 15 and 49. " Although the figures show progress in access to treatment, with 93% of HIV-positive people having access to antiviral treatment, much remains to be done to reach the first 95% and an undetectable viral load for all," he said.

Commenting on the epidemiological situation of HIV in the Congo over the last five years, Dr Cécile Laure Mapapa, Director of the National AIDS Control Program, noted that the epidemic is generalized. Carriers and those at risk include homosexuals, sex workers and prisoners. Mother-to-child transmission is estimated at 18%. Pointe-Noire is the most affected department in the country, with a prevalence rate of 5.2%, followed by Niari, Pool, Kouilou, Bouenza and Sangha.

According to Dr. Cécile Laure Mapapa, priority should be given to improving the quality of care, targeted screening and community involvement in order to reduce sexually transmitted infections. Identifying people living with HIV, prevention, combating stigmatization and mobilizing financial resources are among the challenges to be met.

Source: www.adiac-congo.com/