Exploring factors influencing adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adult people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy in Zanzibar (Tanzania) : a case of Mnazi Mmoja hospital care and treatment centre
Document type: mthesis
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Abstract:
BACKGROUND: An antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence of at least 95% has been proven necessary in order for treatment to be effective. Failure to meet this level results in poor immunological and virological outcomes. OBJECTIVE: The objective is to explore factors influencing ART adherence among adult people living with HIV (PLHIV) on ART for at least 6 months at Mnazi Mmoja Care and Treatment Centre (CTC) in Zanzibar. METHOD: A qualitative exploratory study: Sixteen people were recruited for in-depth interviews (IDI). Four focus group discussions (FGD) with PLHIV on ART were also conducted. RESULTS: Factors that were shown to impede ART adherence include the use of traditional medicines, stigma, forgetfulness, false beliefs about HIV, and alcohol/illicit drug use. Other factors are side effect, pill burden, improper treatment monitoring and support, lack of food, hunger, economic hardship. Factors enhancing ART adherence included acceptance of HIV status, desire to be healthy and live longer, disclosure, social support, treatment efficacy and adequate drug supply. The key interventions/strategies were use of treatment assistant, use of medication reminders, task shifting and home-based care (HBC) services. CONCLUSION: The adherence among PLHIV on treatment can be improved through appropriate interventions/strategies. RECOMMENDATIONS: The Ministry of Health should strengthen stigma reduction campaigns to promote disclosure and increase social support to PLHIV. The Ministry should also execute study to examine possible interaction between ART and traditional medicines.
Authors:
Saleh, A.M.
Country:
Tanzania, United Republic of
Category:
Research
Department:
Development, Policy and Practice
Institute:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Keywords:
disease prevention and control
,
health services
,
HIV and AIDS
Language:
eng
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Organization:
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
PAGE:
vii, 82
Place:
Amsterdam
Publisher:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute [etc.]
Year:
2012
Region:
East Africa
Right:
© 2012 Saleh
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Title:
Exploring factors influencing adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adult people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy in Zanzibar (Tanzania) : a case of Mnazi Mmoja hospital care and treatment centre
Training:
Master in International Health (MIH)