JoVE - Journal of Visualized Experiments
JoVE Visualize
Contact Us

Challenges in status disclosure and adherence to antiretroviral therapy in children living with HIV: An observational study

  • 0Department of Dermatology, Government Medical College, Patiala, Punjab, India.
Indian Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and AIDS +

|

January 31, 2025

|

January 31, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Caregivers in Punjab delay HIV status disclosure in children, often past recommended ages. Optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is high, but distance poses a challenge for children living with HIV (CLHIV).

Area Of Science

  • Pediatric HIV/AIDS
  • Public Health
  • Social Determinants of Health

Background

  • Highly active antiretroviral therapy (ART) has improved longevity for children living with HIV (CLHIV).
  • Increased survival raises concerns about HIV status disclosure and treatment adherence.
  • Limited data exists on these issues in Punjab, India.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the relationship between sociodemographic factors and HIV status disclosure in CLHIV in Punjab.
  • To identify challenges faced by CLHIV in adhering to ART in this region.

Main Methods

  • An observational, cross-sectional study involving 98 caregivers of CLHIV (18 months to 15 years).
  • Data collected via semistructured, validated questionnaires from June to December 2021.
  • Study conducted at the ART center of a tertiary hospital.

Main Results

  • Only 25% of caregivers were aware of the child's HIV status.
  • Children aged 5-12 years were significantly less likely to have their status disclosed (57%).
  • Lower socioeconomic status, rural background, and lower caregiver education were inversely associated with disclosure.
  • 65% of caregivers believed disclosure should occur between 14-18 years.
  • ART adherence was optimal in 85% of CLHIV; distance was the primary adherence barrier.

Conclusions

  • The mean age of disclosure in this study exceeded WHO guidelines.
  • Caregiver encouragement for timely, systematic disclosure is crucial.
  • Motivating caregivers to maintain optimal adherence is vital for ART program success.

Keywords:

Related Concept Videos

Retrovirus Life Cycles 01:10

45.6K

Retroviruses have a single-stranded RNA genome that undergoes a special form of replication. Once the retrovirus has entered the host cell, an enzyme called reverse transcriptase synthesizes double-stranded DNA from the retroviral RNA genome. This DNA copy of the genome is then integrated into the host’s genome inside the nucleus via an enzyme called integrase. Consequently, the retroviral genome is transcribed into RNA whenever the host’s genome is transcribed, allowing the...

Sexually Transmitted Infections 01:26

261

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases transmitted primarily through unsafe sexual interactions. Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause them and can result in severe health complications if untreated.ChlamydiaThe bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis is responsible for the disease Chlamydia, the most common STI in the United States. This peculiar pathogen requires human cells to reproduce, residing intracellularly. The initial infection often goes unnoticed because it typically does not...

Immunodeficiency Diseases 01:25

895

Immunodeficiency disorders are conditions in which the immune system's ability to fight infectious disease and cancer is compromised or entirely absent. The immune system comprises a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body from potentially harmful invaders. When this system is deficient or not functioning properly, it leaves the body susceptible to infections, diseases, or other complications.
There are three main causes of immunodeficiency...

Pulmonary Tuberculosis I 01:29

220

Tuberculosis, often called TB, is a contagious illness primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mainly affects the lung parenchyma but can also impact other body parts.
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...

Ethical Dilemmas I 01:17

818

Ethical dilemmas in nursing are of utmost importance, as they often arise from the tension between adhering to core ethical principles and the practical realities of healthcare delivery. These dilemmas require nurses to navigate complex situations where competing ethical considerations pull them in different directions.
Let us explore some examples to understand the potentially complex moral decisions nurses face.
Take the case of caring for minors, particularly in areas related to reproductive...

Pulmonary Tuberculosis V 01:28

170

Medical management of tuberculosis (TB) patients involves a comprehensive approach that includes diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. The specific strategies can vary depending on the type of tuberculosis (latent or active), the patient's overall health status, and other considerations.
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the...