Disclosure of HIV Status and Associated Factors Among People Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: HIV-positive status disclosure has many potential benefits, including increased opportunities for social support, implementation of risk reduction with partners, and improved access to antiretroviral treatment.

Objective: To assess the disclosure status and factors associated with HIV-positive status disclosure among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria.  

Methods: This descriptive-exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted among PLWHA and assessed antiretroviral therapy at Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Ibadan. A total of 440 respondents were recruited using a systematic random sampling method. Data was collected using a pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire.

Results: The mean age of respondents was 33.4±7.8 years. The majority (375; 85.2%) had disclosed their HIV status to at least one significant person, of which 299 (68.0%) informed their sexual partners. Educated respondents were five times more likely to disclose their status than those uneducated (OR = 5.43). Employed respondents were less likely to disclose their status compared to those who were unemployed (OR = 0.13). Respondents whose partners were HIV positive (OR = 2.89) and those whose partners were HIV negative (OR = 3.55) were more likely to disclose their status compared with those whose partners' HIV status was unknown.

Conclusion: Interventions and adherence counselling should continue to encourage HIV status disclosure, especially among uneducated, employed, and those unaware of the HIV status of their partners.