Published in PLOS One on 2026-06-22, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Magreth Theophil, Ally Abdul Lyimo, Joel Seme Ambikile
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0352024
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a significant global health challenge, particularly among people living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral therapy (ART). The combined effects of HIV infection, long-term ART exposure, and other comorbidities increase CKD risk in this population. Despite international and national recommendations for routine CKD screening, the uptake remains inconsistent in resource-limited settings like Tanzania. Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of CKD screening is vital for improving early detection and patient outcomes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CKD screening and associated factors among PLHIV on ART in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and the review of medical records. A systematic random sampling method was used to recruit participants in the study. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize participants’ characteristics and the prevalence of CKD screening. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were applied to identify factors associated with CKD screening, with a p-value < 0.05 considered for statistical significance.
Among 426 adults on ART, CKD screening uptake was high (94.1%). Screening was more likely among participants with higher CD4 counts (>350 cells/µL; AOR: 9.73, 95% CI: 1.21, 78.16; p = 0.032), and less frequent ART clinic attendance was associated with lower screening odds (every six months vs. monthly; AOR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.48; p = 0.001). Interestingly, participants reporting provider recommendations for CKD screening had lower odds of screening (AOR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.79; p = 0.024). Sociodemographic factors, viral load status, comorbidity, perceived adequacy of CKD information, and distance to screening facilities were not significantly associated with CKD screening.
CKD screening uptake among adults on ART was high, but screening was influenced by clinical and service factors. Higher CD4 counts and more frequent clinic attendance were associated with increased screening, while provider recommendations were paradoxically linked to lower screening, highlighting gaps in translating advice into action. Strengthening integrated, patient-centered approaches and ensuring systematic CKD screening across all patient groups is essential to optimize early detection and management of kidney disease in PLHIV.
1. Introduction
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition affecting approximately 850 million people worldwide [1]. It contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality, particularly among people living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral therapy (ART), who are at increased risk due to HIV related and treatment-related factors [2,3]. Tanzania carries a substantial burden of HIV, with an estimated prevalence of 4.6% among adults aged 15–49 years, and of these, 62% are aware of their status, and 90% of those are on ART [4].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider hospital systems desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Magreth Theophil, Ally Abdul Lyimo, Joel Seme Ambikile. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
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