Clinical and Epidemiological Characteristics of Patients with Late Diagnosis of HIV/AIDS Infection in Sancti Spíritus, Cuba, 2022–2024

Abstract

Introduction: Late diagnosis of HIV/AIDS infection remains a major public health challenge, associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Objective: To characterize the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients with late diagnosis of HIV/AIDS infection in the province of Sancti Spíritus during the period 2020–2024. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial General Hospital. Sociodemographic and clinical variables (symptoms at diagnosis, viral load) were collected. Patients were classified into early diagnosis (less than 3 months from symptom onset) and late diagnosis (more than 3 months). Statistical analyses were performed to assess relationships between variables. Results: A total of 35% of patients presented with advanced symptoms, with a predominance of young males aged 19 to 28 years (42.6%). Approximately 70.4% of late diagnoses occurred during hospital admissions, with a high viral load in most cases (>50,000 copies/ml). Conclusions: Late diagnosis of HIV/AIDS in Sancti Spíritus primarily affects young males and is influenced by social barriers and gaps in primary care. Educational interventions and strengthened primary healthcare services are needed to promote early detection and improve epidemic control.