Project no.: HIV-NAT 168/Serodiscordant Couple
This is a cross-sectional study to gather data on the marital status or engagement in a heterosexual stable relationship (more than six months) for all clients of the HIV-NAT 006 cohort, and of the MTCT-Plus program of the Thai Red Cross Anonymous Clinic, as well as on whether they are aware of the HIV status of their partner.
Results: We found zero HIV prevalence among non-index heterosexual partners after a median 10 years of HIV-serodiscordant relationships (all but two index partners were on successful ART), and a low HIV testing rate. The latter was substantiated and explained by the qualitative outcome of the study, suggesting relation to stigma against HIV-positive people Our results support the WHO recommendation for starting ART for treatment and prevention in HIV-serodiscordant couples at any CD4 count. Furthermore, we recommend the dissemination of data showing that no HIV transmission in heterosexual couples through sex practice has been observed provided VL is suppressed.
This could be a powerful tool for effective fight against stigma and self-stigma in people living with HIV.
While safe sex and HIV testing should continue to be promoted, it is important to reassure the public and the HIV-positive community of extremely low HIV transmission risk with successful ART.
Publication: has been submitted to journal
