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

Abstract #69990

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

Background: HIV/AIDS has entered its third decade and still there is no vaccine. In spite of new and more effective antiretroviral drugs, there has not been a match with the decrease in mortality or comorbidities among minorities. Treatment failure may be one of the leading causes of these disparities. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to examine, if short-term changes in viral load influence long-term responses to treatment. Methods: Data from the HIV Outpatient Study (HOPS), collected ongoing since 1992, will be analyzed. They were followed for 24 weeks allowing time to achieve a virological nadir. At 24 weeks patients were categorized as 1.) achieving an undetetable viral load, 2.) maintaining a decreased viral load, or 3.) having no change in viral load. Patients were followed henceforth, for one year to assess any treatment failure. Patients were compared by baseline viral load and CD4 count. These characteristics will be compared, using appropriate statistical methods for longitudinal studies. In addition to bivariate analysis, a Generalized Estimating Equation model will be used to assess the association between selected individual variables and long-term treatment outcomes. Results: The significance of the proposed research could potentially help to identify transitional responses to treatment. Findings may have great implications in helping to forecast future treatment regimens for those who do not respond well to their baseline treatment regimens.

Learning Objectives:

• At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
• 1. Recognize the difference in treatment outcomes as it relates to baseline viral loads and CD4 counts for those patients living with HIV
• 2. Discuss the factors associated with long term treatment outcomes for those patients living with HIV
• 3. Identify the factors associate with treatment failure for patients living with HIV

Keywords: HIV Interventions, HIV/AIDS

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.