[Knowledge and perceptions of people living with HIV regarding adherence support mechanisms in treatment centers in the Plateau-Central region of Burkina Faso, November 2024].

Abstract

Introduction: Since the introduction of antiretroviral therapy for HIV in Burkina Faso, several treatment adherence support mechanisms have been implemented to improve outcomes and prevent resistance. Our study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and perceptions of people living with HIV (PLHIV) regarding these mechanisms in the Plateau-Central region.

Methods: We conducted a descriptive study in the Plateau-Central region, which is one of the 13 regions of Burkina Faso. PLHIV were selected as they arrived for their follow-up visits. Information was collected through interviews using a standardized questionnaire. Adherence was calculated based on the participants' reports. Those who took all their medications in the month prior to the survey were considered adherent. Quantitative variables were calculated using the averages, and qualitative variables were calculated using proportions.

Results: A total of 347 PLHIV were included in the study. Of these, 69% were women, with a mean age of 45.6 ± 12.2 years. The mean treatment follow-up duration was 8.6 ± 5 years. Eighty percent of individuals adhered to treatment (95% CI [75-84]). Nearly all PLHIV (99.7%) were aware of adherence support mechanisms. The most well-known mechanisms were six-month antiretroviral drug supplies (RAVI6M) (71%), discussion groups (69.9%), individual discussion (69.9%), and counseling (64.2%).The recently introduced community-based antiretroviral drug refilling program outside of health facilities was less well known (42.2%). The most commonly used measures were face-to-face discussion (64%), counseling (62%), and RAVI6M (61.7%). The most appreciated measures were the six-month supply of antiretroviral drugs (44.6%), drug counting (10.7%), and patient interview (10.1%).

Conclusion: PLHIV are familiar with and appreciate adherence support measures. The most appreciated measure is six-monthly refills of ARV drugs. Community-based ARV supply policies should be encouraged.