Adherence to Anti Retroviral Treatment in Zambia

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is important for effective treatment. Little is known about barriers and facilitators to ART in Zambia. This book identifies barriers and facilitators which were diverse in nature and belonged to a wide spectrum of factors which include patient related, health service related, socio-economic and cultural factors. These include lack of communication and information about ART, inadequate time during consultations, follow up and counselling, forgetfulness, stigma, discrimination and disclosure of HIV status, lack of confidentiality in the treatment centres, lack of nutritional support, feeling better, prospects of living longer, family support, information about ART, support for income generating activities and transport. This study suggests a multiplicity of factors and issues which need to be taken into consideration when providing ART. Further research is needed including participant observations to capture the actual interactions between patients and their health care providers.