Navigating Disclosure Obstacles Encountered by Individuals with HIV at Kakomo Healing Centre IV in Kabale District

Abstract

HIV/AIDS remains a pressing global health concern, particularly impacting socio-economic development in various African nations, Uganda included. Revealing one's HIV-positive status to a family member or relative is crucial for adherence to effective antiretroviral therapy, which significantly enhances the survival and well-being of those living with HIV. To evaluate the hurdles faced by individuals with HIV at Kakomo HC IV in Kabale District regarding disclosure and to curtail new infections in this community, a descriptive crosssectional study was conducted. The study sampled individuals living with HIV at Kakomo HC IV randomly, utilizing a pretested questionnaire as the data collection instrument. The gathered data underwent coding, sorting, entry, and analysis through statistical software (SPSS), presented via tables and charts. Findings revealed that only 40 (50.6%) were adequately prepared before disclosing their status, while 30 (37.0%) neither prepared nor disclosed to anyone. 61 (63.5%) received education on the importance of disclosure during clinic visits, but 26 (46.4%) neither disclosed nor received such education. Barriers to disclosure primarily stemmed from anxiety about blame, stigma, fear of losing a partner, and violence among 18 (54.5%), 19 (52.8%), 30 (39.0%), and 2 (18.2%) individuals, respectively. Despite 62 (43.4%) intending to disclose to someone, 88 (98.9%) faced barriers to disclosing their status. Misconceptions in 51 (31.9%) communities and potential discrimination by families in the same proportion highlighted the challenges. Consequently, 123 (76.9%) still fear others spreading word of their HIV-positive status. Understanding disclosure motivations is crucial, requiring tailored strategies for decisionmaking based on the discloser's needs and their intended audience. The significance of support, proximity, and relational dynamics between the discloser and the recipient emphasizes the necessity for a secure environment during disclosure. Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Antiretroviral therapy, HIV-positive, HIV status, Stigma.