Which intervention is most effective in reducing vertical transmission of HIV from an infected mother to her infant?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option A
- Administration of antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy is the most effective intervention to reduce vertical transmission of HIV because it significantly lowers maternal viral load, thereby minimizing the risk of in utero, intrapartum, and postpartum transmission.
- Early and sustained maternal ART improves maternal health and reduces the likelihood of mother-to-child transmission to less than 1-2%.
- While other interventions like cesarean section and neonatal prophylaxis contribute, they are most effective when combined with maternal ART.
- Exclusive breastfeeding alone does not prevent transmission unless the mother is on effective ART.
- Therefore, maternal viral suppression via ART is the cornerstone of preventing vertical HIV transmission.
Reference: Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 23rd Edition, Chapter: Infectious Diseases, Page 756.
- Early and sustained maternal ART improves maternal health and reduces the likelihood of mother-to-child transmission to less than 1-2%.
- While other interventions like cesarean section and neonatal prophylaxis contribute, they are most effective when combined with maternal ART.
- Exclusive breastfeeding alone does not prevent transmission unless the mother is on effective ART.
- Therefore, maternal viral suppression via ART is the cornerstone of preventing vertical HIV transmission.
Reference: Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 23rd Edition, Chapter: Infectious Diseases, Page 756.
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