Risk factors associated with low CD4+ lymphocyte count among HIV-positive pregnant women in Nigeria

Abstract Objective To determine the risk factors for CD4+ lymphocyte counts of 200 cells/mm3 or lower in HIV-positive pregnant women in Nigeria. Method A cross-sectional data analysis from a prospective cohort of 515 HIV-positive women attending a prenatal clinic. Risk of a low CD4+ count was estimated using logistic regression analysis. Results CD4+ lymphocyte counts of 200 cells/mm3 or lower (280 ± 182 cells/mm3 ) were recorded in 187 (36.3%) out of 515 HIV-positive pregnant women included in the study. Low CD4+ count was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 10.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20–95.53), lack of condom use (aOR, 5.16; 95% CI, 1.12–23.8), history of genital ulcers (aOR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.12–2.82), and history of vaginal discharge (aOR; 1.62; 1.06–2.48). Conclusions Over 35% of the HIV-positive pregnant women had low CD4+ counts, indicating the need for treatment. The findings underscore the need to integrate prevention of mother-to-child transmission with HIV treatment and care, particularly services for sexually transmitted infections.