Table 3 Summary of findings of included studies using the GRADE methodology (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation)

Adherence (poor versus good)

6 (cross-sectional)

Odds ratio: 5.90 (95%CI, 3.50–9.94)

Moderate^a

Adherence (poor versus good)

4 (cohort studies)

Hazar ratio: 2.46 (95% CI, 1.72–3.51)

High

CD4 cell count (< 200 versus ≥ 200 cells/mm³)

3 (cross-sectional)

Odd ratio: 4.82 (95% CI, 2.44–9.52)

Low^b

CD4 cell count (< 200 versus ≥ 200 cells/mm³)

4 (cohort studies)

Hazard ratio: 2.98 (95% CI, 2.23–4.0)

Moderate^c

CD4 cell count (< 100 versus ≥ 100 cells/mm³)

2 (cross-sectional)

Odds ratio: 1.14 (95% CI, 0.52–2.47)

Low^d