Factors influencing adherence to anti-retroviral therapy among HIV infected young people aged between 15-24 yrs in Nyeri South, Central Province-Kenya

Abstract

Adherence to Antiretroviral drugs is an important component in the treatment of HIV and Aids. It largely determines the response of a patient to the prescribed medication as well as the success of the whole HIV program. A host of factors influence adherence to ART. This study sought to examine the factors that influence ART adherence among the young people aged between 15and 24 years in Nyeri south. Descriptive cross-sectional design guided the researcher in carrying out the study. The target population was 274 HIV positive young people collecting ARV drugs in the nine health facilities offering HIV treatment in Nyeri south.

A sample size of 61 young people aged between 15 and 24 years and have been on ART for the last six month was selected using -stratified sampling method. Data was collected using questionnaires and observation methods. Collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results have been presented using frequency tables, percentages charts and graphs. The findings of the study were that patients are supported by their families with majority, 69 %, having been accorded the necessary assistance as far as ART was concerned.

There is a relatively low level of disclosure among the patients with only 55.77 % having disclosed to their families. Majority of the patient were on a simple regimen in terms of administration with 73.77 % taking only two tablets per day. The relationship between providers and patient was found to be collaborative with 68.85 per cent having been actively involved in the treatment process. Adherence to ART was found to be optimal with 77.05 % had not missed a dose in the last one month. The study recommends mechanisms to reduce stigma be instituted and patients be encouraged to disclose their status to their families.