Determinants of Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among HIV Patients in a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Southeastern Nigeria
Iferikigwe, V. Chidera *
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nigeria, Otuku-Ozalla, Nigeria.
Igwe Ebuka D.
Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Joseph Catholic Hospital Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria.
Ibegbunam Onyinye M.
Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria.
Ifede C. Jeremiah
Department of Internal Medicine, ECWA Hospital, Egbe, Kogi State, Nigeria.
Onu S. Ngozi
Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria.
Ewelugo C. Amaechi
Department of Internal Medicine, Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, Nigeria.
Uguru Precious
Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria.
Ojeh F. Golden
Department of Internal Medicine, Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, Nigeria.
Oiku M. omofuma
Department of Family Medicine, BU Hospital, Warri, Delta State, Nigeria.
Wontcheu N. E. Francine
Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria.
Alo Stephen
Department of Internal Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria.
Okereke Kingsley
Department of Internal Medicine, Enugu State University, College of Medicine, Nigeria.
Ideyi Chikezie
Department of Internal Medicine, Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, Nigeria.
Oyiyechukwu Charles
Department of Internal Medicine, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Nigeria.
Utah Francisca
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Akwa-Ibom, Nigeria.
Okechukwu Ogbonnaya
Department of Internal Medicine, National Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria.
Akhaine J. Precious
Department of Surgery, Edo Specialist Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: HIV has been a significant public health challenge in Nigeria since its discovery. Effective anti-retroviral treatment requires high adherence levels, which remains a significant challenge with important implications.
Aim: To determine the factors influencing the compliance with anti-retroviral medication among HIV patients undergoing specialized treatment at a tertiary healthcare center in the South Eastern region of Nigeria.
Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among HIV/AIDS patients receiving specialized care at the HIV/AIDS Clinic of UNTH. Using systematic sampling, a probability-based sampling method was used to select 321 participants. Data collection was carried out using a semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire divided into four sections, designed to gather the vital information from the respondents.
Results: The study of the 321 HIV patients that participated 85 were males and 236 were females with a mean age of 44.5 years and a modal age of 48years. Most respondents (78.2%) had a positive attitude toward ARTs, and the adherence rate was 62.3%, relatively high compared to other studies. Forgetfulness caused a third of missed doses, while transportation costs significantly impacted clinic attendance. Knowledge (p=0.005) and age (p=0.001) significantly influenced ART adherence, and age also correlated with attitudes toward ART (p=0.001).
Conclusion: To improve ART adherence, consistent medication used should be encouraged. Targeted counseling for patients should encourage better health-seeking behaviors. Mechanisms should be put in place to help patients adhere to consistent medication.
Keywords: Anti-retroviral therapy (ART), human immunodeficiency virus, adherence, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)