Syphilis and HIV are sexually transmitted infections (STI) that can be passed during sex and via mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) during pregnancy or delivery. The dual elimination of MTCT of syphilis and HIV is a global public health priority. Dual syphilis and HIV point-of-care rapid diagnostic tests could increase rates of screening for both STIs during antenatal care, enabling women with confirmed diagnoses to start treatment to protect themselves and their babies. This 1-year study will estimate the prevalence of syphilis and dual syphilis + HIV infection in pregnant women, and assess the feasibility of integrating dual syphilis and HIV rapid tests during antenatal care in the Wakiso and Hoima Districts of Uganda. This study is conducted collaboratively by researchers from UCLA and the Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO). Methods include qualitative research and analysis of data from the AMBSO Population Health Surveillance Study, an HIV and STI surveillance cohort.

Research Aims

Aim 1:
Analyze AMBSO Population Health Surveillance Study data from May 2021 – May 2022 to estimate prevalence and determinants of: (1) syphilis infection in pregnant women and (2) syphilis and HIV co-infection in pregnant women.

Aim 2:
Conduct 20 in-depth interviews with antenatal providers to assess: (1) knowledge related to syphilis and HIV screening and treatment; (2) awareness of/adherence to Uganda Ministry of Health guidelines for routine STI screening; and (3) acceptability of implementing syphilis+HIV test and treat of pregnant women.

Aim 3:
Conduct 10 focus group discussions with perinatal women to assess attitudes, practices and barriers to use of antenatal care; knowledge about syphilis and HIV infection; awareness of health impact of STIs on self and baby; trends of partner communication and STI testing; health information-seeking behaviors.

Funding Source

UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine Global Health Seed Grant Program
https://worldhealth.med.ucla.edu/pages/seed-grant