| dc.description.abstract | The introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART) brought new hope to HIV patients as it has transformed a fatal disease to a chronic manageable condition. In 2009 there were over 920,000 Malawians infected with HIV and 110,000 new infections. Malawi like other countries in the sub-Saharan Africa has made great strides in ensuring access to ART. The government of Malawi introduced free antiretroviral therapy (ART) in June 2004. By 2010, a total of 250,987 patients in the country were receiving ART. The success of ART requires, amongst others, a sustained adherence rate to medication of more than 95% to prevent viral replication and the development of drug resistant HIV strains. Identifying the factors that influence adherence is essential for the long-term success of public ART programmes. This study explored patient, socio-economic, cultural, and religious and health systems factors that influence adherence to ART in Zomba district in Malawi. An explorative qualitative study was conducted amongst ART patients and health workers in four health facilities in Zomba district of the Southern Region of Malawi. Data collection was through individual in-depth interviews with 25 ART patients and semi-structured key informant interviews with 13 health workers that were actively involved in the ART programme. Data was audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic and content analysis of transcribed data was done. The study found high individual commitment, having social support from family and friends and continuous good counselling to be facilitators to adherence to ART. HIV-related stigma and discrimination, none disclosure of HIV status, lack of partner support, travelling to attend funerals and religious beliefs were noted barriers to adherence. Health system factors such as congestion in the clinic, negative staff attitudes and a lack of privacy at the pharmacy were also identified as barriers to clinic attendance and keeping appointments. Although pill burden was not mentioned, patients reported drug reactions as a barrier to adherence. Although there is good road network in the district, transport cost was still mentioned as a hindrance to treatment adherence. Treatment success was reported to be both a facilitator and a barrier to adherence. HIV-related stigma and discrimination among people need to be addressed to increase support to PLWHIV and encourage disclosure of HIV status. The improvement of the socio-economic status of ART patients needs to be addressed to reduce dependence on support from other people and provide money to make follow-up appointments. The health systems need to reduce clinic congestion and waiting times so that patients are not deterred from accessing ART. | en_US |
