ARV treatment adherence and related factors at the provincial HIV/AIDS center in Quang Binh, in 2018

Abstract

Antiretroviral (ARV) treatment is the most effective method for people infected with HIV/AIDS. The study aims to determine ARV treatment adherence rates and describe some relevant factors in HIV/AIDS patients. A descriptive cross-sectional design was implemented on 152 patients being ARV treated at the OPC - Center for HIV/AIDS Prevention in Quang Binh province. Research results show that compliance rate with treatment in the past week is 69.1%. Factors affecting non-compliance include drug side-effect (OR = 3.21; 95%CI: 1.03 - 9.96); no having follow-up visit on time (OR = 2.89; 95%CI: 1.23-6.67); inadequate knowledge of treatment and adherence to treatment (OR = 2.41; 95%CI: 1.06-5.50); no using reminder measures (OR = 2.6; 95%CI:1.05 - 6.41) and getting information infrequently (OR = 3.55; 95%CI: 1.46- 8.61). Rate of ARV treatment adherence is low. Health workers need to advise patients to visit and treat on time, focusing on improving understanding of treatment adherence, measures to support medication. Side effects often emerge and the right treatment to follow the treatment plan.