Uganda Aids Rural Treatment Outcomes

UARTO is an observational longitudinal study of HIV-infected adults initiating antiretroviral therapy in southwestern Uganda. The study began in 2005 and has enrolled 750 participants. Sociodemographic, behavioral, and reproductive health data are assessed by questionnaire every four months. Biologic specimens are also collected to determine HIV RNA levels, drug resistance, alcohol consumption, pregnancy, and other tests related to immunology, microbiology, and virology. Adherence is monitored with the Wisepill pill container, which cellularly transmits a date-and-time stamp every time it is opened. Interruptions are investigated in real-time to determine the cause and if loss of viral suppression has occurred.