Gender Differences in Experiences of Adherence to HIV/AIDS Management among HIV-Positive Adults attending a Tertiary Hospital in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Adherence to HIV/AIDS management is the fundamental mechanism for ending HIV/AIDS by 2030. Rivers State has the third-highest HIV/AIDS burden in Nigeria. This study aimed to gain insights into the gender differences in experiences of adherence to HIV/AIDS management among HIV patients attending the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State Nigeria.

Methods: A qualitative study design was carried out among 24 adult HIV positive patients who were purposively selected. Four focus group discussions were conducted with six participants in each group (2-male groups and 2-female groups). Each session was audio-recorded with consent from participants, transcribed verbatim, and exported into ATLAS. Ti version-12 software for analysis. Results were presented in tables and diagrams, highlighting codes and quotations.

Results: The majority of respondents were within 30-39 years. Most participants understood adherence as the timely ingestion of antiretroviral medications. The commonest reasons for non-adherence among the female gender were shame, poor attitude of healthcare workers, lack of support from discordant spouses/partners, and long waiting times at the clinic. While the male gender reported financial constraints and fear of being embarrassed or stigmatized.

Conclusion: This study revealed the socio-cultural, economic, and psychosocial factors influencing adherence to HIV/AIDS management. Hence solutions proffered by discussants such as improving on personal efforts, disclosure to trusted persons, friendly behaviour of healthcare workers, family and spousal support should be considered by healthcare facilities, donor organizations, and the government.