Prevalence of Low-Level Viremia among People Living with HIV in China

Strategic Insights -

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Public Health has highlighted the pressing issue of low-level viremia (LLV) among people living with HIV (PLWH) in China. Research conducted by investigators from the First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine found that the overall prevalence rate of LLV among PLWH in China was 10.6% (95% CI: 6.8% ~ 16.1%). The study emphasized the importance of monitoring and managing LLV to prevent adverse outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations such as older individuals with poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Key Takeaways:

  • The prevalence of LLV among PLWH in China was 10.6% (95% CI: 6.8% ~ 16.1%), with a higher prevalence of blips (briefer episodes of viremia) than persistent low-level viremia (pLLV).
  • The prevalence of LLV was highest among individuals with a viral load (VL) range of 50 ~ 199 copies/mL.
  • Factors associated with an increased risk of LLV included poor ART adherence, low baseline VL, changing treatment schemes, and a low baseline CD4 level.
  • The study's results underscore the need for enhanced compliance management and regular drug resistance testing to prevent adverse outcomes.

Statistics:

  • 20 original studies were included in the systematic review, covering 225,687 HIV/AIDS patients.
  • 45,265 of these patients had LLV.
  • The prevalence of LLV was 10.6% (95% CI: 6.8% ~ 16.1%).
  • The prevalence of LLV varied by VL range, with the highest prevalence in the 50 ~ 199 cp/mL range.

Sources:

  • Prevalence of low-level viremia and related influencing factors among people living with HIV in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Public Health, 2025;13:1661253.
  • Frontiers in Public Health. Published by Frontiers Media Sa, Avenue Du Tribunal Federal 34, Lausanne, Ch-1015, Switzerland.
  • AIDS Weekly, November 3, 2025; p 222.