Socio-demographic Factors of HIV-Positive Adolescents on Second-line ART Regimen and their Influence on Adherence in Rural Western Kenya

Abstract

Globally, HIV-related deaths declined by 30% between 2005 and 2012 among children and adults. However, those among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) rose by 50%. This has been influenced by late diagnosis and poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Socio-demographic factors most often are beyond the control of ALHIV yet they may expose them to situations that influence adherence to ART. This study explored the relationship between gender, age, household background, institution of learning and orphanhood status and adherence among 15-19 year old ALHIV on second-line ART. Results showed that: female ALHIV were more adherent than male ALHIV irrespective of age; both day and boarding institutions of learning did not provide an enabling environment that supported adherence; age, ART status of primary caregiver and their relationship with ALHIV influenced adherence and finally double and maternal orphans exhibited poor adherence. Core was the interplay between these factors as discussed.