FACTORS AFFECTING ADHERENCE TO ANTIRETROVIRAL TREATMENT AMONG HIV PATIENTS IN KISUMU COUNTY HOSPITAL COMPREHENSIVE CARE CLINIC, KISUMU COUNTY, KENYA.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the factors affecting adherence to antiretroviral treatment among HIV patients in Kisumu County Hospital with the specific objectives being; to determine how stigma affects HIV patients' adherence to Antiretroviral treatment, to establish ways in which religious beliefs affects HIV patients’ adherence to Antiretroviral treatment and to establish how social support from health care providers affects patients’ response to their ART therapy. The health belief model is used as a guiding principle in this research to assess some of the factors that lead to antiretroviral adherence. The study population included HIV positive patients on active antiretroviral treatment for more than one year and above 18 years of age attending Kisumu County Hospital comprehensive care clinic. The study involved stratified random sampling technique. The sample size will be determined using Andrew Fischer’s method of (1994) where the respondents will be ≤ 10,000 participants. The study used questionnaires consisting of closed and open ended questions. Data collected was edited, coded and cleaned, categorized and tabulated as appropriate. Information generated was presented in tables and charts. The findings of this research will be useful in both patient and health caregiver education on the importance of antiretroviral adherence and will provide alternative ways in which the global goal of more than 95% antiretroviral adherence can be met. The study explored factors influencing ART adherence among HIV patients in Kisumu County. Demographics, stigma, religious beliefs and social support played significant roles. Younger participants faced challenges balancing responsibilities with health management. Stigma impacted medication adherence, while religious beliefs provided emotional support. Social support was crucial for adherence, especially for those who disclosed their status. These findings highlight the need for tailored interventions addressing demographics, stigma, religious beliefs and social support to improve ART adherence