Situación actual de la transmisión vertical del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en el Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: The review focuses on the issue of vertical transmission of HIV in Ecuador, highlighting the elevated incidence, lack of testing, and limited access to treatment. This study aims to analyze the factors contributing to transmission, assess their prevalence and distribution, and propose preventive measures to improve control and reduce its social impact. Objective: To describe the transmission of HIV from mothers to children during pregnancy, childbirth, or lactation in Ecuador. Methodology: The study methodology combines narrative review and meta-analysis, focusing on scientific articles published from 2018 to 2023 in databases such as PubMed and Scopus. Forty-seven studies were selected and analyzed following a systematic search, using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, to assess the prevalence and prevention of vertical transmission of HIV in Ecuador. Results: Studies show variability in HIV prevalence among pregnant women, factors of vertical transmission, and the effectiveness of preventive and educational interventions. The importance of early diagnosis and prevention education, and the connection between HIV and other infectious diseases are emphasized. Conclusions: The research underlines the importance of preventive measures and effective treatments against the high rate of vertical HIV transmission in Ecuador. Key factors include late diagnosis, unequal treatment access, and socioeconomic factors. The most effective strategies encompass the use of antiretrovirals, scheduled cesarean sections, and sexual health education, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to HIV management.