YBank: Improving adolescent outcomes in HIV

YBank savings card

YBank savings card

THE PROBLEM

HIV IS EVOLVING INTO AN ADOLESCENT EPIDEMIC 

Globally, 2.1 million adolescents are living with HIV.  3.3 million children are also living with HIV.  After successful roll-outs of anti-retroviral therapy these children are expected to enter adolescence in full health.

ADOLESCENTS HAVE THE POOREST OUTCOMES AMONGST ANY AGE GROUP LIVING WITH HIV

Between 2005 and 2012 the total number of HIV-related deaths fell by 30%.  However, amongst adolescents HIV related deaths increased by 50%.

POOR ADHERENCE IS DRIVING POOR OUTCOMES FOR ADOLESCENTS

The World Health Organization recently issued an urgent call for novel interventions to improve adherence amongst adolescents.  In Rwanda, 29% of adolescents living with HIV have non-suppressed viral load because of poor treatment adherence.

THE IDEA

To address this challenge we have been working with the Rwanda Biomedical Center to develop a program with three components to improve adherence and outcomes for these adolescents.  

INCENTIVES

Using the power of financial savings and inclusion to motivate healthy choices.

PEER SUPPORT

Teens helping teens through peer mentoring to stick to their medications and stay well.

LIFE-SKILLS

Provide young people with the skills to invest their savings and plan their future livelihoods.

 
Rwanda