Diversity, geographical distribution and predictive factors of Hepatitis C virus genotypes and subtypes in Rwanda.

Background: Existing data on the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes and subtypes in Rwanda need to be strengthened. The aim of this study was to identify HCV genotypes and subtypes among HCV-infected patients, as well as their geographical distribution in Rwanda, and to identify the social and economic factors that could influence HCV epidemiology which would make it possible to target national preventive and management actions for infected patients.

Methods: This study included 560 patients with confirmed chronic HCV infection.

Screen, Notify, See, and Treat: Initial Results of Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment in Rwanda.

Purpose: To describe the first year results of Rwanda's Screen, Notify, See, and Treat cervical cancer screening program, including challenges encountered and revisions made to improve service delivery.

Methods: Through public radio broadcasts, meetings of local leaders, church networks, and local women's groups, public awareness of cervical cancer screening opportunities was increased and community health workers were enlisted to recruit and inform eligible women of the locations and dates on which services would be available. Screening was performed using human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing technology, followed by visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), and cryotherapy, biopsy, and surgical treatment for those who tested HPV-positive.

Drug resistance mutations after the first 12 months on antiretroviral therapy and determinants of virological failure in Rwanda.

Objective: To evaluate HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) and determinants of virological failure in a large cohort of patients receiving first-line tenofovir-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens.

Methods: A nationwide retrospective cohort from 42 health facilities was assessed for virological failure and development of HIVDR mutations. Data were collected at ART initiation and at 12 months of ART on patients with available HIV-1 viral load (VL) and ART adherence measurements.

Effect of selenium supplementation on CD4+ T-cell recovery, viral suppression and morbidity of HIV-infected patients in Rwanda: a randomized controlled trial.

Objective: To examine the effect of selenium supplementation on CD4 T-cell counts, viral suppression, and time to antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation in ART-naive HIV-infected patients in Rwanda.

Methods: A multicenter, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial was conducted. Eligible patients were HIV-infected adults (≥21 years) who had a CD4 cell count between 400 and 650 cells/μl (ART eligibility was ≤350 cells/μl throughout the trial), and were willing to practice barrier methods of birth control.