Investigation of Barriers for Uptake and Implementation of PMTCT

HIV and AIDS have caused untold harm and human suffering globally. Over 90% of people infected with this deadly virus live in sub-Saharan Africa including Malawi. In Malawi HIV disproportionally affects women in comparison with men. According to Demographic and Health Survey (2015-2016) key indicators, HIV prevalence among women aged 15-64 was 12.8% compared to men 8.2% public health. As per 2010 Malawi demographic and health survey, HIV prevalence in the southern region was twice as high as prevalence in the other regions (Southern 14.5%, Central 7.6% and northern region (6. 6%).Women and children are more affected than the rest of the general population. HIV infection in children below 15 years is largely due to mother-to-child transmission (MTCT). Worldwide, over two million children have been infected through MTCT. A combination of high fertility rate and high HIV prevalence have contributed to the undermining of an effective PMTCT continuum of prevention, care and treatment programme towards achieving virtual elimination of mother to child HIV transmission and keeping the mothers alive.