ADHERENCE TO ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUG TREATMENT AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS: A STUDY FROM EASTERN NEPAL

Yadav Deepak Kumar; Karki Prahalad; Yadav Sabita; Jha Nilambar

Volume : VII, Issue : I, January - 2018

ADHERENCE TO ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUG TREATMENT AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS: A STUDY FROM EASTERN NEPAL

Yadav Deepak Kumar, Karki Prahalad, Yadav Sabita, Jha Nilambar

Abstract :

Introduction: HIV/AIDS has threatened an enormous worldwide challenge on the survival of mankind. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV is increasingly being introduced and utilized in diverse areas of the world.

Objectives: To determine adherence to ART and associated factors with adherence among HIV positive subjects receiving ARV therapy.

Methodology: In this cross sectional study total of 300 HIV positive subjects were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaire from Sunsari, Morang and Jhapa districts of Eastern Nepal.

Result: The median age for patients was 34 yr. Mean 4-day adherence was 92 percent. Adherence was lower over longer periods of recall. On univariate analysis less than university education, being unemployed, obtaining free treatment, severe depression, hospitalization >2 times, having moderate to severe side-effects and taking 4 or more medicines were associated with lower adherence (<90%).

Conclusion: Although the overall adherence was high, lower levels of adherence were documented among poor patients receiving free ART.