Advancements and Challenges in Eliminating Perinatal Transmission of HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

UNAIDS estimated that in 2023, 84% of pregnant women living with HIV were receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for the Prevention of Perinatal Transmission of HIV (PPT-HIV), potentially averting up to 220,000 new HIV infections in newborns. However, despite the scale-up of PPT-HIV services, approximately 160,000 children became infected with HIV in 2022 alone. This underscores the urgent need to refocus efforts on addressing the challenges of PPT-HIV to ensure that sub-Saharan Africa meets global targets for eliminating new perinatal transmission. This article examines interventions that have demonstrated positive impacts on PPT-HIV services and recommends their implementation in areas where they are needed. Among these interventions is the critical importance of enhancing community-based test-and-treat initiatives for people of childbearing age and improving access to prenatal care, HIV testing and ART for expectant mothers. Additionally, there is a need to emphasise the role of technology and involve male partners in PPT-HIV programmes to enhance effectiveness and achieve the desired outcomes.