Hiv/aids treatment adherence among adolescents attending Mildmay Hospital, Uganda, Wakiso District. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i9.2009Keywords:
Factors Adherence to HIV/AIDS treatment, Adolescents attending Mildmay HospitalAbstract
Background
Globally, over 39 million people were living with HIV in 2023, with adolescents accounting for a significant portion of new infections and deaths. In Uganda, the non-adherence rate to ART among adolescents is 48.7% attributed to stigma and medication side effects. The purpose of the study was to assess factors affecting adherence to HIV/AIDS treatment among adolescents attending Mildmay Hospital, Uganda, Wakiso District.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used, employing quantitative methods of data collection, conducted in Mildmay Hospital, Uganda, Wakiso District. The data collected was analysed manually, and after the findings were entered into a Microsoft Excel 2013, which was then presented in the form of tables, pie-charts, and graphs.
Results
out of 52 respondents, results showed that 100% of the respondents reported taking their medication daily, yet 73% experienced stigma, 77% had difficulty swallowing tablets, and 33% failed to return for refills. Socio-demographic data indicated that 36% were aged 19 years and above, 40% were in secondary school, and 58% were currently attending school. Regarding hospital-related factors, 52% reported unfair treatment by health workers, 58% lived over 10 km from the facility, 42% missed treatment due to stockouts, and 69% faced long waiting times. Drug-related factors included 46% having difficulties swallowing drugs, 43% experiencing side effects, 79% citing the long duration of treatment as a challenge, and 62% expressing doubts about medication effectiveness.
Conclusion
Adherence to HIV/AIDS treatment among adolescents was influenced by stigma, difficulty swallowing medication, long treatment duration, negative experiences with health workers, and long distances to health facilities.
Recommendation
Adolescent-friendly services, improved drug availability, supportive healthcare interactions, community sensitisation, and enhanced access to nearby treatment facilities are recommended to improve adherence to HIV/AIDS treatment.
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