Project HOPE Presents New HIV Research at ICASA 2023

Project HOPE, a global health organization, proudly presented a collection of six insightful posters at the recently concluded International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA) held in Harare, Zimbabwe. The conference, held this month, provided a platform for experts and organizations to share groundbreaking research and initiatives aimed at combating HIV/AIDS and related health challenges. 

The posters showcased by Project HOPE underscore the organization’s role as a key PEPFAR partner in the fight against HIV/AIDS and unwavering commitment to understanding and implementing the latest best practices, with a particular emphasis on community and youth-centered approaches. These initiatives aim to provide vital support to communities grappling with high rates of HIV. Key research topics featured in the posters include: 

 

• A Market-Led, Client-Centered, Economic Strengthening Approach as Structural HIV Prevention: Results from Namibia: This research explores an innovative approach to HIV prevention in Namibia, focusing on economic strengthening as a structural intervention. The poster presents results from a labor market assessment that were used to effectively link adolescent girls and young women to personalized economic services to help prevent the spread of HIV within the Namibian context. This initiative is part of the USAID/PEPFAR-funded DREAMS Twagamenwa Project. 

• Predictors of Favorable Tracing Outcomes After Interruption in Treatment of People Living with HIV in Ethiopia: This poster investigates predictors of favorable outcomes in tracing individuals who have experienced interruptions in their HIV treatment in Ethiopia. The findings contribute valuable insights for improving continuity of care in HIV management. This initiative is supported by the USAID/PEPFAR-funded Community HIV Care and Treatment (CHCT) project. 

• Identifying and Treating Depression Among PLWHIV in the Community Settings of Ethiopia: This poster delves into the identification and treatment of depression among people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in community settings in Ethiopia. By addressing mental health, the research aims to enhance overall well-being and quality of life for individuals living with HIV. This initiative is part of the USAID/PEPFAR-funded Community HIV Care and Treatment (CHCT) project. 

• Impact of Community Based Enhanced Adherence Counseling on Viral Load Suppression Among People on ART in Ethiopia: This poster assesses the impact of community-based enhanced adherence counseling on viral load suppression among individuals on ART in Ethiopia. The research sheds light on community interventions to improve treatment adherence and health outcomes. This initiative is supported by the USAID/PEPFAR-funded Community HIV Care and Treatment (CHCT) project. 

• Successful Integration of Screening and Management of Depression Among PLWHIV in the Community-Based HIV Services Delivery Settings of Ethiopia: Building on the importance of mental health support, this poster focuses on the successful integration of screening and management of depression within a community-based HIV program in Ethiopia. The findings contribute to holistic approaches for addressing both physical and mental health aspects of HIV care. This initiative is part of the USAID/PEPFAR-funded Community HIV Care and Treatment (CHCT) project. 

• Interruption in Treatment and Tracing Outcomes Among Children and Adolescents on Antiretroviral Therapy in Ethiopia: This poster examines interruptions in treatment and tracing outcomes among children and adolescents on antiretroviral therapy in Ethiopia. The research aims to improve strategies for ensuring consistent and effective treatment for young individuals. This initiative is supported by the USAID/PEPFAR-funded Community HIV Care and Treatment (CHCT) project.
  

Additionally, Project HOPE proudly collaborated with its local partner, Zvandiri, to present the poster titled Improving Youth-Friendly Service Provision Through Technical Assistance: Experiences from Zambia. This poster shares experiences in enhancing youth-friendly services for HIV-related care through technical assistance, emphasizing effective strategies and lessons learned in providing accessible and tailored healthcare services to the youth population in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Zambia. This initiative is part of the USAID/PEPFAR-funded Empowering Children and Adolescents Project. 

Since 1986, Project HOPE has been at the forefront of implementing impactful HIV-related programs across Africa and currently continues its critical work in Ethiopia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, and Zambia to mitigate the profound impacts of HIV/AIDS. 

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About Project HOPE
Founded in 1958, Project HOPE is a leading global health and humanitarian organization operating in more than 25 countries around the world. We work side-by-side with local health systems to save lives and improve health. Our mission is at the epicenter of today’s greatest health challenges, including infectious and chronic diseases, disasters and health crises, maternal, neonatal and child health and the policies that impact how health care is delivered. For more information on Project HOPE and its work around the world, visit www.ProjectHOPE.org and follow us on socials @ProjectHOPEorg.