Under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) Phase V, which of the following correctly describes the 'Test and Treat All' policy for HIV?
- A ART is initiated only in WHO clinical stage 3 or 4
- B ART is initiated when CD4 count falls below 500 cells/mm³
- C All HIV-positive individuals are started on ART regardless of CD4 count or clinical stage ✓
- D ART is initiated after confirmation by Western blot test
Correct answer: C. All HIV-positive individuals are started on ART regardless of CD4 count or clinical stage
Explanation
Under NACP Phase V, the 'Test and Treat All' policy mandates that all HIV-positive individuals are started on antiretroviral therapy (ART) regardless of CD4 count or clinical WHO stage. This aligns with WHO 2016 guidelines. Option B was the earlier threshold. Option A refers to clinical staging criteria, not the current policy. Option D is an outdated confirmatory test no longer required.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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