| dc.description.abstract | Low adherence rates among young adults living with HIV/AIDS continue to be an issue, notwithstanding prior research on ART compliance. The aim of this study was to identify the anti-retroviral therapy (ART) compliance determinants—such as sociodemographic traits, medication beliefs, HIV associated stigma, and mental health factors among the young adults aged 19 to 25 years who are clients at Kisumu County referral hospital. 116 participants were chosen for the study from a cross-sectional design with stratified random sampling, with the inclusion criteria being age between 19 and 25 years, HIV positivity, and being currently on ART for at least the last three months. Data was collected through structured closed-ended questionnaires; descriptive statistics especially frequency was used for analysis. Calculators were used for calculation analysis. The data was presented using tools including bar charts, tables, pie charts, figures, and other appropriate design to aid in data comprehension. The percentages were also utilized to further analyze the data. The results of this study were anticipated to guide strategies aimed at raising young adults ART compliance in this environment. This study investigated the determinants of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) adherence among young adults aged 19-25, aiming to contribute insights for tailored interventions. The sociodemographic analysis revealed a concentration of respondents (64.7%) in the 22-25 age group, with higher adherence observed in this cohort compared to 19-21 age cohort. Gender exhibited a balanced adherence pattern. Whereas caution is advised due to the small sample size, the duration of ART positively correlated with adherence, emphasizing the importance of continued support during the initial treatment phases. Dosing frequency presented inconsistencies, with twice-daily regimens showing higher adherence than once-daily, challenging established principles. The study also explored HIV-associated stigma, finding that disclosure positively influenced adherence, consistent with existing literature. Mental health aspects, including the perceived burden of ART and mental side effects, were significant determinants, reinforcing the need for holistic care. The study concluded that age, gender, education level, disclosure status, treatment support and mental health were all important determinants of ART among the young adults of Kisumu County Referral Hospital. The researcher recommends establishment of a regular monitoring and feedback system within Kisumu County Referral Hospital to assess and enhance individual adherence levels as well as implementation of patient education programs to raise awareness about the importance of consistent adherence, fostering a sense of responsibility among young adults regarding their Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).Adherence interventions should be based on these determinants, providing targeted support to address socio-demographic and drug-related factors influencing adherence among young adults at Kisumu County Referral Hospital. | en_US |
