Rate and predictors of loss to follow-up in HIV care in a low-resource setting: analyzing critical risk periods

LTFU peaked in the first 6 months, accounting for approximately half of total losses, remained elevated from months 7-12, and stabilized after the first year of HIV care and treatment. Address information and adherence were predictors of LTFU. To effectively minimize LTFU, efforts should focus on intensive support during the first six months of care, followed by sustained efforts and monitoring in the next six months. Our findings highlight a critical period for targeted interventions to reduce LTFU in HIV care.