Trends in baseline CD4 cell counts and risk factors for late antiretroviral therapy initiation among HIV-positive patients in Shanghai, a retrospective cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Backgrounds There are few studies focus on the factors underlying the late initiation of ART in China. We analyzed the trends in the median CD4 cell counts among different patient groups over time and the risk factors for the late initiation of ART in Shanghai, China. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional survey was made in the Department of Infectious Disease of Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center which is a designated diagnosis and treatment center for HIV-positive patients in Shanghai during the period of January 1st, 2008--June 30th, 2014. Late ART initiation was defined as a CD4 cell count 30 years) (p < 0.001). Conclusions Notable improvements were made in the median CD4 cell count at ART initiation and the proportion of late ART initiation from 2008 to 2014. However, persons with high risk of HIV exposure who are male, older even heterosexual orientation should be given more opportunities to receive frequently screening, earlier diagnoses and timely treatment.

Keywords

• HIV infection
• Baseline
• CD4 cell counts
• Trends
• Late ART initiation
• Risk factors