The link between religion and HAART adherence in pediatric HIV patients

HIV is a chronic illness that requires strict adherence to medication regimens. This study attempts to examine the patterns of highly active antiretroviral therapy adherence relative to religious beliefs in a population of perinatally HIV-infected adolescents. Eligible subjects included perinatally HIV-infected youth aged 14-22 years who knew their HIV status. Assessment tools included an antiretroviral adherence form, a standardized depression questionnaire, and a religious observance questionnaire. All of these forms were completed at the time of study enrollment. Twenty subjects met entry criteria and were enrolled. Subjects who had excellent adherence had significantly higher religious belief scores than those who had poor adherence (3.46 ± 0.46 vs. 2.34 ± 0.69, p < 0.05). Those with excellent adherence also had higher religious practice scores than those with poor adherence (2.66 ± 1.02 vs. 2.23 ± 1.45, p = 0.46). Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)-II depression score was also lower in those with excellent adherence versus those with poor adherence (4.64 ± 3.41 vs. 8.86 ± 9.77, p = 0.39). Physicians may be able to consider spirituality as a factor that may influence medication adherence in pediatric HIV patients. As perinatally HIV-infected youth age into adulthood, future studies will be needed to explore the ongoing intimate relationship between a patient's religious views and their compliance to medical regimens.