Adherence to antiretroviral therapy by adults living with HIV/aids: a cross-sectional study

Rev Bras Enferm. 2021 Oct 18;75(2):e20210019. doi: 10.1590/0034-7167-2021-0019. eCollection 2021.
[Article in English, Portuguese]

Abstract

Objective: To verify the association between adherence to antiretroviral treatment by adults with HIV/AIDS and sociodemographic factors, social and clinical support.

Methods: Cross-sectional study, with a quantitative approach. Participation of 230 patients. Questionnaires of sociodemographic characterization, social and clinical support, and assessment of adherence to antiretroviral treatment were used. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed.

Results: Adherence was classified as good/adequate. An association with sex, income, employment, and level of education was noted. In social support: having access to health services; communication with health professionals; health education; having support to allow venting/talking about issues; information on HIV/AIDS; and company for leisure. In the clinical profile: non-interruption of the drug treatment due to absence from the service or due to changes in the medical prescription.

Conclusion: Adherence was classified as good/adequate and especially associated with social support factors, which should be enhanced in clinical practice.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Retroviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • HIV Infections* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Medication Adherence*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Anti-Retroviral Agents