Depression is associated with poor self-reported adherence to antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV attending an HIV clinic in the UK: results from a cross-sectional study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Contemporary evidence is needed to assess whether the prevalence of depression remains high among people living with HIV in the United Kingdom despite recent efforts to improve patients’ mental health, and if depression is negatively associated with individuals’ adherence to antiretroviral therapy. In a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional clinic-based survey of alcohol consumption and associated health behaviour among people living with HIV in London, of the 221 respondents, 106 (48%) had poor self-reported adherence to antiretroviral therapy (CASE Index) and 69 (31%) screened positive for depression (PHQ-9). Poor self-reported adherence to ART was 72% higher among participants who screened positive for depression in comparison with participants who screened negative. Respondents who were younger, unemployed, and reported problematic drug use were more likely to screen positive for depression. Screening and management of depression as a part of routine HIV care may support adherence to antiretroviral therapy.