Improvement of HIV Viral Monitoring in Benin through Dried Blood Spots

Fabien Taieb's thesis, defended at the Institute for Research and Development, proposes the integration of Dried Blood Spots (DBS) to improve the viral monitoring of HIV patients in Benin. This approach could increase the viral success rate, currently at 65.4% at 12 months of antiretroviral treatment, by facilitating access to testing in decentralized areas.

Access to viral load testing for HIV patients in Benin is a major challenge, exacerbated by the distance from laboratories and lack of resources. Many patients, especially those living in rural areas, must travel long distances for follow-up, compromising their health and that of their community. Fabien Taieb's thesis highlights these obstacles and their impact on treatment monitoring.

Fabien Taieb analyzed data on patient retention and viral suppression, revealing a retention rate of 39.9% in Cameroon at 36 months and a viral suppression rate of 59.8%. The integration of DBS could improve these figures by making viral load testing more accessible, thus allowing for better patient monitoring.

The results of this research have strategic implications for policymakers. The adoption of DBS could reduce costs related to HIV complications by improving access to testing. It is recommended to conduct awareness and training campaigns to facilitate the adoption of this innovative method by healthcare professionals and patients.

« « The integration of Dried Blood Spots could significantly improve the viral monitoring of HIV patients by facilitating access to testing in decentralized areas, where the distance from laboratories is a major obstacle. » - Fabien Taieb »

« « This research paves the way for innovative solutions to improve access to health in West Africa, a crucial issue for policymakers and health stakeholders. » - Lektaris team »