Explaining Adherence Success in Sub-Saharan Africa
Author Information
Author(s): Norma C. Ware, John Idoko, Sylvia Kaaya, Irene Andia Biraro, Monique A. Wyatt, Oche Agbaji, Guerino Chalamilla, David R. Bangsberg
Primary Institution: Harvard Medical School
Hypothesis
Why are adherence levels to antiretroviral therapy (ART) higher in sub-Saharan Africa compared to North America?
Conclusion
Adherence success in sub-Saharan Africa can be explained as a means of fulfilling social responsibilities and preserving social capital in essential relationships.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients often borrow money or beg for transport funds to attend clinic appointments.
- Adherence is prioritized through social relationships that provide support and resources.
- Health care providers and treatment partners play crucial roles in encouraging adherence.
Takeaway
People in Africa take their HIV medicine really well because they want to help their friends and family, even when it's hard to get to the doctor.
Methodology
The study used ethnographic research methods, including 414 in-person interviews and 136 field observations across three countries.
Limitations
The study's findings may not apply to all African contexts due to the continent's diversity.
Participant Demographics
{"patients":{"gender_ratio":"65% female","mean_age":38,"marital_status":"44% married or living with a partner","education":"57% completed primary school","health_stage":"65% met criteria for Stage III or IV disease"},"treatment_partners":{"gender_ratio":"56% female","mean_age":39,"marital_status":"73% married or living with a partner","education":"35% completed primary school"},"health_care_providers":{"gender_ratio":"64% female","mean_age":38,"professional_roles":{"physicians":"27%","nurses":"35%","counselors":"19%","pharmacists":"16%"}}}
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website