Adherence to antiretroviral therapy by people living with HIV/AIDS in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina State, Brazil

Abstract

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is essential to control HIV infections and avoid clinical complications and the development of resistant HIV strains. Several Brazilian municipalities have committed themselves to the 90-90-90 target, which aims at diagnosing 90% of HIV/AIDS cases, treating 90% of them, and virally suppressing 90% of them. However, only three Brazilian studies have assessed adherence to ART from secondary dispensing data. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of adherence to treatment in the Municipality of Florianópolis, Santa Catarina State, Brazil, examining its association with demographic, health access, and clinical characteristics. A cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary national data from electronic medical records and Medication Logistic Control System (SICLOM) and Laboratory Test Control System (SISCEL) regarding people living with HIV/AIDS in the municipality from April 2020 to March 2021. We found an about 85% prevalence of adherence to ART. White men with follow-ups both in primary and secondary care showed greater adherence to treatment. Age and number of consultations directly related to adherence. Decentralizing care for users living with HIV/AIDS is the way to more comprehensive care but technical and ethical challenges still require solutions. Professional training, correct network referrals, and attention to confidentiality issues must be reinforced to expand treatment adherence.