Self-health care behaviors and knowledge of youth living with HIV

Abstract

BackgroundThailand is facing problems with the increasing number of youths living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). ObjectiveThe objective of this research was to study the self-health care behaviors and knowledge of youths living with HIV who were receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). MethodsThis mixed-methods study consisted of quantitative self-administered online questionnaires and qualitative telephone interviews using a topic guide. Data analysis used descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. ResultsA total of 22 youths aged between 15 and 24 years living with HIV who were receiving ART were recruited. Overall self-health care behavior mean scores (out of 4) among the participants were good (3.17 ± 0.41). The mean scores of the 6 self-health care behavior domains in descending order were as follows: spiritual growth (3.35 ± 0.21), health responsibilities (3.26 ± 0.43), stress management (3.10 ± 0.31), nutrition (3.08 ± 0.33), interpersonal relations (3.05 ± 0.36), and physical activity (2.87 ± 0.72). Most of the participants (63.64%) had a good level of knowledge about HIV/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) with a mean score of 16.68 ± 2.21. ConclusionThe majority of individuals maintained healthy habits. However, some domains, such as physical exercise, food, and interpersonal interactions require support. The majority of respondents had a good level of knowledge about HIV/AIDS. In addition, the participants expressed a desire for a system that would support their future career opportunities.