A Facility-based Family Support Intervention to Improve Treatment Outcomes for Adolescents on Antiretroviral Therapy in the Cape Metropole, South Africa. (November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Orth, Zaida; van Wyk, Brian
• Is Part Of: Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care. Volume 20(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-11
• Subjects: photovoice -- adolescents living with HIV -- adherence -- family club; AIDS (Disease) -- Periodicals; 616.9792
• DOI: 10.1177/23259582211059289
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2325-9574

Abstract

Adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (ALHIV) globally, report worse treatment outcomes compared to adults and children on antiretroviral therapy (ART). We conducted a photovoice study with eighteen ALHIV to explore experiences and challenges of being on ART, and individual interviews with 5 health workers to describe the challenges in treating ALHIV. The facility implemented the Family club intervention to facilitate caregivers (parent/guardians) supporting ALHIV on treatment. The health workers revealed that " disclosing HIV status " to children was the biggest challenge for caregivers and health workers. Participating ALHIV reported that family support and having a positive mentality were instrumental for continued treatment adherence. However, disclosure of HIV status to friends remained a challenge due to pervasive community stigma. Treatment fatigue and side - effects were also barriers to adherence. Family support was instrumental in facilitating adherence support for ALHIV. However, this (intervention) should include peer support to improve positive mental well-being in ALHIV.