Factors Associated with Behavioral Intention for Antiretroviral Drug Adherence among Newly Diagnosed HIV Patients in Health Region 5

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the factors associated with behavioral intention for antiretroviral drugs adherence among newly diagnosed HIV patients in Health Region 5. The sample consisted of 110 newly diagnosed HIV patients who received medical services at public health facilities in Health Region 5. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using the chi-square test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. The results revealed that most participants were male (57.3%) with a mean age of 28.67 years. Approximately 50.9% of the participants demonstrated high level of behavioral intention to adhere to antiretroviral drugs. Regarding health perceptions, perceived susceptibility to the disease, perceived severity of the disease, and perceived benefits of treatment were all at high levels, with mean scores of 4.32, 4.27, and 4.43, respectively. Conversely, perceived barriers to the treatment process were at a moderate level with mean score of 2.67. From correlation analysis, the study found that gender and educational level were significantly associated with behavioral intention to adhere to antiretroviral drugs (p < 0.05). Additionally, knowledge of HIV/AIDS, self-care behaviors after being diagnosed with HIV, and antiretroviral therapy protocols showed a significant positive correlation with behavioral intention to adhere to antiretroviral drugs among newly diagnosed HIV patients (r = 0.436, p < 0.01). Moreover, the perceived benefits of treatment showed a significant positive correlation with behavioral intention to adhere to antiretroviral drugs (r = 0.398, p < 0.01). Therefore, health service units should proactively provide comprehensive education regarding HIV/AIDS knowledge and self-care behaviors. Furthermore, strategies should be implemented to enhance the perceived benefits of treatment and ensure a thorough understanding of correct antiretroviral therapy protocols. Strengthening these areas would foster a positive behavioral intention and increase the likelihood of consistent long-term medication adherence. Ultimately, these interventions can lead to broader improvements in health-promoting behaviors.