English

Abstract

BACKGROUND Adherence to medication, also known as compliance with medication, is the extent to which patients follow medical instruction.1,2 Adherence level of 90% or more is commonly cited as essential for HIV infected patients for maximum benefit of treatment. This level of adherence is also difficult to attain given that average adherence rate of 70-75% are found in primary care setting.3We wanted to evaluate the factors that affect the adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in children and counselling of attendant, parents, or caregivers for better adherence to HAART. METHODS The children who were HIV positive (confirmed by ELISA for HIV-I/or HIV-II) had been the part of this study. Follow up questionnaire method was followed in this study for total 30 patients who were enrolled in this study. RESULTS >95% adherence level was found in 63% of patients in all six visits and all these patients had a better health status. Over all drug adherence level of >95% in all age group was found in 60% of patients. Adolescent patients were found to be of fluctuating nature. 71% male patients found to be >95% adherent while only 44% female patients were >95% adherent to HAART. Some patients were found to be 100% adherent and multiple factors were present. Adherence program and counselling was the most important factor that increases adherence level after regular visits. CONCLUSIONS Multiple factors affect the adherence to treatment and this is very difficult in children. KEY WORDS HIV, ART, ARV, HAART, Adherence, HIV Infected Children, STD.