Gender-Based Violence and Its Health Impacts on People Living with HIV and Key Populations in Abuja, Nigeria: A Systematic Review

Gender-based violence (GBV) has been a key yet understudied predisposing factor of poor HIV outcomes among people living with HIV (PLHIV) and other key populations (KPs) in Abuja, Nigeria. This systematic review attempted to integrate the research evidence on the prevalence, patterns, and health consequences of GBV among PLHIV, female sex workers, men who have sex with men, and people who inject drugs. Consistent with PRISMA guidelines, seven studies were identified following a detailed search of peer-reviewed databases and grey literature, and their features, GBV measures, and results are summarised in structured extraction tables. Quantitative data indicated a steady high prevalence of GBV (54.2% -82.3%), with the most significant burden being on criminalised KPs. GBV was associated with lower antiretroviral therapy adherence, loss of continuity of care, and lower rates of suppressed viral load, with effect estimates of 2.4 times the risk of not taking antiviral medication and a 42% vs. 68% decrease in the chance of having the virus controlled. Qualitative data revealed police harassment, violence by clients, community rejection, stigma, and trauma to be the processes that promote disengagement from HIV services. In summary, all the evidence shows that GBV is actuarial as a central syndemic contributor to weakening the outcome of HIV in Abuja. The review concludes that the treatment continuity, mental health, and viral suppression require addressing the GBV. It suggests integrated trauma-informed care, services that are KP-friendly, community empowerment intervention, structural reforms, such as police sensitisation and protective policy, to decrease violence and reinforce HIV response activities in the Federal Capital Territory.