Factors influencing adherence to antiretroviral therapy among young adults in Limpopo province

Abstract

Background: South Africa is among the countries with the greatest burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the world. The introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has made HIV a manageable chronic health condition with a return to normal life expectancy. Adherence to ART is a prerequisite to realising these benefits.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using individual semi-structured interviews to understand factors influencing adherence to ART among young adults. The study was conducted at three busy primary care clinics around Mankweng Hospital. Participants aged 18–35 years who had been on ART for more than a year were purposefully selected. Open-ended questions were used to explore factors that influence ART. Recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and translated. The coded transcripts were thematically analysed.

Results: Eight major themes were identified to influence ART adherence among young adults: medication-related factors, healthcare system factors, attitudes of healthcare workers, economic factors, disclosure, acceptance, mobile phone reminders and family support.

Conclusion: Adherence to ART is a major problem in our communities, and people living with HIV are still finding it challenging to optimally adhere to their ART medication because of the identified factors that influence ART adherence. Family support is a significant factor that was identified to positively influence ART as it leads to disclosure and acceptance of HIV-positive status, better emotional well-being and subsequently improved ART adherence.

Contribution: This study underscores the importance of a family-oriented, patient-centred care approach in managing HIV and ART adherence.