The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #69884

Martine Etienne, MPH, Public Health Program, Morgan State University, Jenkins Bldg, Rm 343, 1700 East ColdSpring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251, 443-885-3238, metienne@morgan.edu

Background: In April 2001, City Council President Sheila Dixon appointed the Baltimore City Council Commission on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment. The mission of the Commission will address the HIV/AIDS emergency within Baltimore City and highlight new policies needed to address issues specific to HIV positive African-Americans. The Commission is sectioned into three workgroups composed of community members, the public and private sector, academia, and the medical community. They were charged with exploring Statistical Analysis, Prevention and Treatment within Baltimore City. Objectives: This study examines the emerging issues surrounding HIV treatment failure and the recommendations that culminate from these findings. Methods: A meta-analysis of literature highlights adherence, delayed therapy, participating in high-risk factors, and drug resistance as specific contributors to HIV/AIDS therapy failure among African Americans. Results: While there has been significant progress over the past two decades in treatment of HIV infection, there are major barriers to successful treatments for African Americans living with HIV. Delays in seeking treatment, difficulties in complying with often complex pill regimens, and economic challenges of poverty are only a few of the hindrances that complicate successful treatment outcomes. The African-American community in Baltimore City is disproportionately affected by HIV/ AIDS. Hence, there is a need to expand programs that augment the network of support to achieve successful outcomes. Recommendations include developing strategies to reduce the fragmentation of health care services, expanding access to health care to promote early diagnosis and treatment, and examining alternative delivery systems.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
• Identify the main factors associated with treatment failure for African Americans living with HIV in Baltimore City
• Discuss strategies that have been recommended for improvement of treatment modalities for African Americans living with HIV in Baltimore City
• Apply the recommended strategies to similar cities around the country that are also battling the war on HIV/AIDS

Keywords: Community Collaboration, Policy/Policy Development

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.