Determinants of Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in People Living with HIV, Followed up at Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
Yumba Numbi Georges *
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Matanda Kapend Serge
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Sarr Catherine *
Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal.
Kamalo Mwad Kon Berthe
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kisoka Kimbungu Thierry
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Ndua Tshijik Jenny
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Mutombo Tshibang Patrick
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Bakona Ilunga Dubois
Public Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kapend A Kalal Lievin
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Mwamba Mulumba Claude
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: The aim of the present study was to determine the level of adherence and the factors associated with good adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) among people living with HIV (PLHIV).
Study Design: Cross Sectional Study.
Place and Duration of Study: Internal medicine department (Infectious Diseases Unit), Lubumbashi University Clinics, in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), between 15th May 2021 and 17th July 2021.
Methodology: We included 137 patients (56 men, 81 women; age range 18-70 years) with HIV and, all participants were interviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. The association between factors affecting adherence and the level of adherence was analyzed using a multiple logistic regression model, and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated. Among 137 PLHIV, 76.64% had good ART adherence (≥95%). Bivariate analysis revealed numerous factors associated with adherence (P = 0.05). However, in multivariate analysis, being on ART for more than three years and abstinence from alcohol were the factors influencing good ART adherence (P = 0.05).
Results: Among 137 PLHIV, 76.64% had good ART adherence (≥95%). Bivariate analysis revealed numerous factors associated with adherence (P = .05). However, in multivariate analysis, being on ART for more than three years and abstinence from alcohol were the factors influencing good ART adherence (P = .05).
Conclusion: Raising awareness among PLHIV, regular counseling of patients regarding daily intake of antiretroviral drugs and abstinence from alcohol, could contribute to good adherence and long-term success of ART among PLHIV.
Keywords: ART, HIV/AIDS, adherence, DRC