Interventions to improve early retention of patients in antiretroviral therapy programmes in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review

This study systematically reviewed evidence on interventions aimed at improving early retention (within six months) in antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs across 11 Sub-Saharan African countries. Out of 2,241 articles screened, 19 met the inclusion criteria, with most being randomized controlled trials or cohort studies. Interventions were grouped into health system strategies (e.g., Universal Test-and-Treat, service integration, cost reduction), patient-centered approaches (e.g., fast-track ART initiation, Differentiated Drug Delivery models), and behavioral support (e.g., mentor mothers, lay and nurse counselors). These interventions primarily targeted HIV-positive adults and pregnant women. Findings suggest that expanding ART access and providing tailored support can enhance early retention in HIV care, but further research is needed across more SSA countries to strengthen evidence-based programming and accelerate progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets by 2030

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