Epidemiological profile of individuals diagnosed with HIV: results from the preliminary phase of case-based surveillance in Kenya

Understanding the characteristics of individuals who are newly diagnosed with HIV is critical to controlling the HIV epidemic. Characterizing this population can improve strategies to identify undiagnosed positives and assist in targeting the provision of HIV services to improve health outcomes. We describe the characteristics of newly diagnosed HIV cases in western Kenya from 124 health facilities. The study cohort cases were matched to prevent duplication and patients newly diagnosed between January and June 2015 were identified and descriptive analysis performed. Among 8664 newly identified HIV cases, during the pilot timeframe, 3.1% (n=265) had retested for HIV after initial diagnosis. Linkage to care was recorded for approximately half (45.3%, n=3930) and 28.0% (n=2425) had a CD4 count available during the pilot timeframe. The median baseline CD4 count was 332cells/mL (IQR: 156-544). Among the newly diagnosed age 15 years or older with a CD4 test, 53.0% (n=1216) were diagnosed late, including 32.9% (n=755) who had advanced HIV at diagnosis. Factors associated with late diagnosis included being male and in an age group older than 34 years. In western Kenya, continued efforts are needed in the area of testing to enhance early HIV diagnosis and epidemic control.