Viral suppression status and associated factors among key populations on ART in Western Oromia, Ethiopia: a retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND: Viral suppression, the key goal of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for improving health and preventing transmission, remains understudied among key populations (KPs) in Ethiopia. This study assessed viral suppression and associated factors among KPs on ART in Oromia, Ethiopia. METHOD: A retrospective study was conducted among KPs in the study area using patient charts (n = 360). Twelve-month post-ART viral load results were extracted. Data were entered into Epi Data 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS. Logistic regression identified associations, with significance set at p-value ≤ 0.05 and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for adjusted odds ratios (AORs). RESULT: The study included 360 participants, including female sex workers (FSWs) 347 (96.4%) and 13 (3.6%) prisoners. Most participants, 164 (45.6%) were aged 25-34, and 320 (88.9%) achieved viral suppression. Being in WHO clinical stage I (AOR = 3.34; 95% CI: 1.35-8.24), being on ART for < 3 years (AOR = 9.25; 95% CI: 3.71-23.03), and having good adherence (AOR = 13.62; 95% CI: 5.85-31.74) were significant determinants. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: The rate of viral suppression among KPs on ART in Western Oromia, Ethiopia was below the UNAIDS 95% target. Early WHO clinical stage I, shorter ART duration, and good adherence were significant determinants of suppression.