Sociodemographic profile, clinical factors and quality of life of people living with HIV: basis for policy brief development

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the socio-demographic profile, clinical characteristics, and quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Angeles City, and to identify associations, differences, and effects among these variables. The study used a convergent parallel mixed methods research design with 315 PLWHA as respondents, and data was collected using a survey questionnaire that included the patients’ demographic profile, the standardized World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) questionnaire, and secondary data for the patients’ clinical profile. The results showed that most of the respondents were male, aged 30-34, single, college graduates, working in the BPO industry, with a monthly income of Php15,000 or less, and identifying as homosexual. Clinically, most were in WHO clinical stage 1, had no comorbidities, had undetectable viral loads, and were receiving anti-retroviral therapy for 4-6 years with a lamivudine-tenofovir and efavirenz regimen. The study also found that overall quality of life of the respondents was relatively high, with significant factors affecting quality of life including BMI, marital status, occupation, monthly income, sexual orientation, drug regimen, and comorbidities. The study suggests implementing a 7-Point Policy to improve the quality of life of PLWHA in program design and cascade services. The findings of this study can be useful for policymakers and healthcare providers in improving the care and well-being of PLWHA in Angeles City.