Evaluating the Effectiveness of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programs: A case study of Federal Medical Centre, Asaba

Abstract

BackgroundMother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV continues to be a critical public health issue, particularly in high-prevalence regions. This study examines the rates of MTCT in relation to antenatal booking, parity, antiretroviral (ARV) use, delivery mode, CD4 counts, and infant feeding practices.MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Nigeria, involving pregnant women living with HIV attending the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program. Data on demographics, antenatal booking, ARV use, delivery mode, CD4 count, and infant feeding were collected. Ethical approval was obtained from the hospital's ethics committee. MTCT rates were analysed based on these variables.ResultsMTCT rates dropped from 1.2% in 2018 to 0% in 2019, with an overall rate of 0.7%. Early antenatal booking and ARV adherence were critical in reducing MTCT. Vaginal delivery with ARV use showed lower MTCT rates than emergency caesarean sections. Higher MTCT rates were associated with CD4 counts below 200 cells/mm³, emphasizing the importance of early ART initiation. Exclusive breastfeeding with ARV prophylaxis was the most effective practice.ConclusionThe PMTCT program at FMC Asaba significantly reduced MTCT rates, highlighting the importance of early booking, ARV adherence, and appropriate delivery methods in improving maternal-child health in high HIV prevalence areas.