Integration of HIV and tuberculosis in the community

J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care. 2014 Nov-Dec;13(6):534-8. doi: 10.1177/2325957413488183.

Abstract

Current strategies are insufficient to contain the growing tuberculosis (TB) epidemic in areas of high HIV prevalence such as sub-Saharan Africa. Due to the increased risk of morbidity and mortality among those coinfected, early detection is critical. However,strategies dependent on passive, facility-based case finding have failed due to severe limitations in the HIV-positive population.There is growing evidence from multiple clinical trials that early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in patients coinfected with HIV and TB reduces mortality. Integration of community-based distribution of ART and TB medicines should be considered for coinfected patients to help improve retention in care and to off-load busy health systems. Several models of integration of HIV and TB care in sub-Saharan Africa have been successful. This review article examines the concepts of HIV and TB integration of testing and treatment at the community level.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antitubercular Agents / therapeutic use
  • Coinfection / diagnosis*
  • Coinfection / therapy
  • Community Health Services / organization & administration*
  • Delivery of Health Care, Integrated / organization & administration*
  • HIV Infections / complications
  • HIV Infections / diagnosis*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Tuberculosis / complications
  • Tuberculosis / diagnosis*
  • Tuberculosis / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents
  • Antitubercular Agents