A binational study of patient-initiated changes to antiretroviral therapy regimen among HIV-positive Latinos living in the Mexico-U.S. border region

AIDS Behav. 2012 Aug;16(6):1622-9. doi: 10.1007/s10461-011-0015-y.

Abstract

Research is lacking on factors associated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) sub-optimal adherence among U.S. Latinos, who are disproportionately affected by HIV and face substantial health care barriers. We examined self-reported, patient-initiated changes to ART (i.e., made small/major changes from the antiretroviral drugs prescribed) among HIV-positive Latinos. Trained interviewers administered surveys to 230 participants currently on ART in San Diego, U.S. and Tijuana, Mexico. We identified factors independently associated with ART changes. Participants were Spanish-language dominant (86%), mean age of 41 years, male (77%), and born in Mexico (93%). Patient-initiated changes to ART were reported in 43% of participants. Being female, having ≥1 sexual partner (past 3 months), ≤6 years since HIV diagnosis and poor health were associated with increased odds of ART changes. Findings raise concern about sub-optimal adherence among this binational population. Longitudinal studies are needed to further explore adherence barriers and avenues for intervention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anti-Retroviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • California
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Cultural Characteristics
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy*
  • HIV Infections / psychology
  • Hispanic or Latino / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Medication Adherence*
  • Mexico
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Preference
  • Self Report
  • Sex Distribution
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Anti-Retroviral Agents