Factors responsible for incomplete linkage to care after HIV diagnosis: preliminary results from the Test and Keep in Care (TAK) project.

Objectives: Linkage to care after HIV diagnosis remains underinvestigated in Europe yet delays in linkage to care are an important obstacle to controlling the HIV epidemic. The Test and Keep in Care (TAK) project aims to determine the prevalence of HIV-positive persons who are lost or late to care and factors associated with this. Methods: Data from community-based voluntary counselling and testing that occurred in 2010-2011 were linked with data from HIV clinics using unique test numbers. Persons not registered in HIV clinics were considered lost to care (LTC). For statistical analysis nonparametric tests were used for comparison and a multivariable logistic regression model was developed that included all variables with P 20 sexual partners to not be in a relationship with an HIV-positive partner to not use condoms and to be taking their first HIV test. In a logistic regression model after adjusting for these factors using condoms in a stable relationship decreased the odds of LTC by 72% (odds ratio 0.28; confidence interval 0.11-0.67). Conclusions: Integration into care after HIV diagnosis requires improvement. Our results suggest that broadening awareness and counselling about sexual risks may have a positive impact.