Stigmatization, quality of life and adherence to follow-up and treatment of HIV infected patients

• Dessau M.I.
• Dmitry A. Lioznov
• Nikolaenko Svetlana L.
• Belayeva T.V.

Abstract

Stigmatization of HIV-infected patients is an important factor in the quality of life of patients and their adherence to treatment. The aim of the study was to assess the stigmatization and the quality of life of pa­tients adherent and non-adherent to follow-up and treatment of HIV infection.

Material and methods. Anonymous survey of 67 HIV infected patients followed in the Central District Hospital of the Lomonosov District of the Leningrad Region in 2010-2011 was conducted. Patients were divided into 2 groups depending on follow-up and treatment. An anonymous questionnaire used The HIV stigma questionnaire and HIV/AIDS-targeted quality of life instrument were used for survey.

Results. The high level of stigmatization and fears of disclosure of the diagnosis were registered in most patients regardless of the level of adherence. Correlation analysis revealed the relationship between stigma and almost all indicators of the quality of life of patients. A significant factor influencing the adherence of patients to follow-up and treatment is coping with the diagnosis of HIV infection. Patients who coped with the stressful situation of diagnosing HIV infection also had better indicators of somatic and psycho-emotional state. It is established that more women are among adherent to follow-up and treatment of HIV infection. Stigmatization and higher quality of life are less pronounced in adherent women.

Conclusions. To involve and retain patients in follow-up and increase adherence to treatment, it is ad­visable to develop and implement programs of psychological support for patients aimed at coping with the diagnosis and reducing stigma. Gender differences should be taken into account conducting counseling of patients to improve adherence.

Keywords:HIV infection, stigmatization, quality of life, adherence

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