Department of Public Health

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Browsing Department of Public Health by Subject "Antiretroviral Therapy"

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    Factors influencing the uptake for postnatal HIV re-test among breastfeeding mothers in Nkurenkuru district, Kavango West region, Namibia
    (University of Namibia, 2025) Andreas, Saara; Alfeus, Anna
    Postnatal mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV can occur breastfeeding. About 90% of children living with HIV acquired it through their mothers. Postnatal MTCT of HIV from breastmilk is one of the concerns placing a burden on paediatric HIV infection elimination efforts. Therefore, postnatal HIV re-testing is crucial in the detection of acute infections among breastfeeding mothers to prevent avoidable MTCT of HIV. This study aimed to investigate factors influencing postnatal HIV retesting uptake among breastfeeding mothers in Nkurenkuru district. The study was carried out among breastfeeding mothers who were HIV-negative at delivery from 7 participating health facilities in Nkurenkuru district (Gcaruhwa Clinic, Mbambi Clinic, Mpungu H.C, Nankudu Clinic, Nkurenkuru H.C, Rupara H.C, and Tondoro H.C) with a sample size of 342 in October 2023. A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed. All respondents consented in writing and the researcher used a questionnaire to collect the study data. The data was cleaned and analysed using Epi Info 7.2 version. Dependent and independent variables association was tested using Chi-square test, with the statistical significance acceptance of p-value ≤0.05. This study found a declining HIV retest uptake among breastfeeding mothers. Out of 342 mothers enrolled, 280 (82%) were tested 3 months after delivery, and only 22 (7%) were tested by month 12. Education level (χ2 = 18.25, p < 0.001), ANC visits count (χ2 = 18.25, p < 0.001), and parity (χ2 = 36.44, p < 0.000) were associated with HIV retesting among breastfeeding mothers. Factors influencing the uptake of postnatal HIV retesting among breastfeeding mothers are the mother’s education level, ANC visits, and parity. The study recommends the Ministry of Health to strengthen awareness and on-going health education on the importance and benefits of consistent postnatal HIV retesting among breastfeeding mothers, as well as ensuring testing accessibility through outreach programs
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    Perceptions and barriers to disclosure of HIV status of children by caregivers at Donkerhook clinic, Windhoek, Khomas region, Namibia
    (University of Namibia, 2025) Lomboleni, Ndinomukulili N.; Mitonga, Honore Kabwebwe
    Children HIV disclosure remains a complicated process influenced by caregivers’ perceptions, emotional readiness, stigma, and access to support systems. This study investigates the factors affecting caregivers’ decisions regarding HIV status disclosure to children, with a particular focus on barriers, facilitators, and the role of structured disclosure programs. Grounded in the Social Ecological Model (SEM), the study applied a qualitative research design, using in-depth interviews with caregivers and healthcare providers at Donkerhoek Clinic, a local health facility in Windhoek, Namibia. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify key patterns in disclosure practices, emotional responses, and support mechanisms. Findings indicate that while some caregivers recognize the benefits of early disclosure, many opt for a delayed or phased approach due to concerns about the child's mental ability to understand their diagnosis, fear of emotional distress, and societal stigma. Limited access to structured disclosure counselling and inconsistent healthcare support further hinder disclosure efforts. On the other hand, caregivers with access to healthcare-led disclosure programs and peer support groups reported greater confidence and improved disclosure outcomes. The study also highlights that stigma remains a persistent barrier, emphasizing the need for community-driven interventions to promote positive disclosure environments. These findings highlight the necessity of integrating structured disclosure frameworks into children's HIV care services. Strengthening healthcare provider training, increasing caregiver support networks, and developing culturally sensitive disclosure strategies can facilitate timely and effective disclosure. Future research should explore children’s post-disclosure experiences and the long-term psychosocial impact of disclosure on their well-being. By i addressing these gaps, the study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of children's HIV disclosure changing aspects and informs policy recommendations for improved disclosure practices in Namibia