A facility-based family support intervention to improve treatment outcomes for adolescents on antiretroviral therapy in the Cape Metropole, South Africa
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Date
2021
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
SAGE
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.
Description
Keywords
Photovoice, Adolescents, HIV, Family club, South Africa
Citation
Orth, Z., & van Wyk, B. (2021). A facility-based family support intervention to improve treatment outcomes for adolescents on antiretroviral therapy in the Cape Metropole, South Africa. ournal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care,20 ,23259582211059289. 10.1177/23259582211059289