Depressive symptoms and viral load suppression among adolescents and youth living with HIV in Malawi: a cross-sectional analysis of MPHIA 2020-2021

Background Viral load suppression (VLS) remains suboptimal among adolescents and youth living with HIV (AYLWH) in Malawi. Depressive symptoms may affect treatment adherence and HIV outcomes, but evidence is limited. We assessed the association between depressive symptoms and VLS among AYLWH using Malawi Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (MPHIA) 2020-2021 data. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional secondary analysis of AYLWH aged 15-24 years. VLS was defined as HIV RNA less than 200 copies/mL and depressive symptoms as a Patient Health Questionnaire-2 score of 3 or higher. Survey-weighte

This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, treatment, or program — especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.