Perfil sociodemográfico de portadores de HIV e a relação com a adesão à terapia antirretroviral (TARV)

Abstract

The infection by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a relevant pandemic for global health, as it affects 38 million individuals and the morbidity and mortality of this population. With the use of medicaments, there was an improvement in morbidity and mortality, making the suppression of the viral load possible, in addition to maintaining adequate levels of lymphocytes. However, in order to achieve therapeutic goals, the adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is essential, with the correct use of medications. Objective: In this regard, this article aims to analyze the rate of treatment adherence, relating it to the sociodemographic profile of individuals assisted in a city in the north of Rio Grande do Sul. Methods: This is a study with a cross-sectional epidemiological design carried out in Marau, RS, from January to May 2021.They were considered eligible for to participate in the survey individuals with HIV, of both sexes, aged 18 years or over, residing in the city where the research was conducted and who have been using ART for at least three months. The research team made the data collect at the Epidemiological Surveillance of the municipality, where medications are dispensed. Patients who did not attend during the research period were contacted through telephone calls. The data collection was done by analysis of medical records and application of a questionnaire, which included sociodemographic questions, questions about self-assessment related to the acceptance of the HIV diagnosis and the Questionnaire for the Assessment of Adherence to Antiretroviral Treatment (CEAT-HIV). The main sociodemographic variables analyzed were gender, age, skin color, sexual orientation, marital status, education, alcohol use, cigarette use and use of illicit drugs. In the data analysis, the Chi square and Fisher's Exact tests were used, for which an α error of 5% was accepted, with values of p<0.05 being considered significant. Results: The total research sample consisted of n=50 participants, with 44% showing strict adherence; 24%, good/adequate; and 32%, low/insufficient. The variables with a statistically significant relationship with adherence were gender (p=0.044), sexual orientation (p=0.040) and acceptance of the HIV diagnosis (p=0.026). Conclusion: Determining the profile of patients who do not adhere to ART is important for the development of interventions in favor of a better commitment to treatment. Good/strict adherence is positive for both the individual and society, reinforcing the need for public strategies.