Assessment of level and factors affecting adherence to antiretroviral therapy in Nagelle town, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia
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Date
2023-10
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Introduction: An adherence level greater than 95% is necessary to get a good outcome out of
antiretroviral treatment, and adherence to antiretroviral therapy has also been the strongest
predictor of the progression of outcome of antiretroviral therapy. This study intended to assess the
level and factors affecting adherence to ART among HIV-infected adult patients in Nagelle town.
Method: A cross-sectional study employing both qualitative and quantitative methods was conducted
from September 1-30, 2019. A systematic sampling method was used to select the study
participants. A total of 285 questionnaires and review of medical records using a semi-structured
questionnaire and information capturing sheet were included. Data entry and analysis were
performed using SPSS for Windows version 21. Bivariate and multivariate analysis evaluated the
association between dependent and independent variables. Thematic analysis was used for
qualitative data.
Result: The research finding revealed that 69.8% of the study participants had good combined
adherence to dose, schedule, and dietary instructions in the past month. Educational status
(P=0.035), presence of illness (P= 0.001), use of other drugs (p=0.001), absence of social support
(p=0.017), and use of alcohol (p=0.001) were found to be significantly associated with poor
adherence to ART. Having good relations with health care providers, the Perceived benefit of
adherence by HCP, and long refill appointments were identified as facilitators of adherence. The
barriers include stigma and discrimination, lack of skilled HCP, distance to health facilities, and
use of other drugs.
Conclusion: This study found that participants' education status, presence of illness, use of other
drugs, social support, and drinking alcohol were determinant factors that affect adherence to
antiretroviral therapy. Interventions are recommended to improve the adherence of patients to
antiretroviral therapy.
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Keywords
Adherence Antiretroviral therapy, 'adult patient's, HIV/AIDS, Nagelle Town 'Ethiopia.'