Citation

Carries S, Muller F, Muller FJ, Morroni C, Wilson D. J. Acquir. Immune Defic. Syndr. (LWW) 2007; 46(1): 68-71.

Affiliation

Research Unit, Department of Medicine, Pietermaritzburg Hospitals Complex, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/QAI.0b013e31813e62f8

PMID

17667338

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess the characteristics, treatment received, and adherence to antiretroviral prophylaxis among South African rape survivors. DESIGN: Record review of clients presenting to the Northdale Lifeline Rape Crisis Center between May 2003, and July 2004. OUTCOME MEASURES: Data on demographics, record of treatment received with antiretroviral prophylaxis, syndromic treatment for sexually transmitted infections, and emergency contraception were collected. Adherence to antiretroviral prophylaxis was defined by filling 4 weekly prescriptions for zidovudine and lamivudine. Results of follow-up HIV testing were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 390 records were reviewed. Ninety-five percent of clients accepted HIV testing at presentation, and HIV seroprevalence at presentation was 35.6%. Of the 233 clients testing HIV-negative, 198 (85%) received antiretroviral prophylaxis, 57% of whom were assessed as adherent. Only 55 clients (27.1%) returned for HIV testing at 6 weeks; 1 woman seroconverted. CONCLUSIONS: Postrape care is an important service provided to South African women, and strategies should be developed to improve adherence to antiretroviral prophylaxis and follow-up testing.

Language: en