Factors associated with access to HIV care and treatment in a prevention of mother to child transmission programme in urban Zimbabwe.

Background: This cross-sectional study assessed factors affecting access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among HIV-positive women from the prevention of mother to child transmission HIV programme in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe.

Methods: Data were collected between June and August 2008. HIV-positive women attending antenatal clinics who had been referred to the national ART programme from January 2006 until December 2007 were surveyed.

The feasibility of preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV using peer counselors in Zimbabwe.

Background: Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) is a major public health challenge in Zimbabwe.

Methods: Using trained peer counselors, a nevirapine (NVP)-based PMTCT program was implemented as part of routine care in urban antenatal clinics.

Results: Between October 2002 and December 2004, a total of 19,279 women presented for antenatal care.

Routine offer of antenatal HIV testing ("opt-out" approach) to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV in urban Zimbabwe.

Objective: To assess the impact of routine antenatal HIV testing for preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) in urban Zimbabwe.

Methods: Community counsellors were trained in routine HIV testing policy using a specific training module from June 2005 through November 2005. Key outcomes during the first 6 months of routine testing were compared with the prior 6-month "opt-in" period, and clients were interviewed.