Analysis of the evolution of public policies and strategies for eliminating vertical transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus: a narrative review, Brazil, 1985-2025
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Objective: To analyze the evolution of Brazilian public health policies and strategies aimed at eliminating vertical transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the contribution of these policies to the reduction of AIDS cases among children under 5 years old, and the challenges to achieving the global elimination goals by 2030. Methods: This is a narrative review of publications from 1985 to 2025, based on consultation of official Ministry of Health documents and scientific articles. Results: Analysis of 45 publications revealed Brazil's progress in addressing vertical transmission of HIV, with the free provision of supplies for HIV prevention, diagnosis and treatment in the Brazilian Unified Health System. Implementation of strategic projects, such as Nascer-Maternidades and Rede Cegonha, and the subnational certification process in priority municipalities contributed to the achievement of the country's global goals for eliminating vertical transmission of HIV in 2025. Social inequities such as race/skin color and social class, regional disparities in prenatal care, weaknesses in surveillance systems and barriers to access to health services remain challenges to the equitable elimination of this disease. Conclusion: The public policies adopted for maternal and child health were fundamental to Brazil's achievement of international certification for the elimination of vertical HIV transmission as a public health problem. Intensifying mobilization and continuing education programs, strengthening local management, and ensuring equity of care are necessary to achieve elimination targets nationwide.
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7169772579