Abstract

THE EFFECT OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS ON ADHERENCE TO ANTI RETROVIRAL TREATMENT AMONG HIV PATIENTS.

Dr. Meenakshi Narkhede* and Dr. Anant Gokarn

ABSTRACT

Adherence to the antiretroviral treatment (ART) regimen appears to be the single most important variable that predicts a patient‟s ability to achieve and maintain suppression of HIV viremia to below the level of detection. Adherence behaviour is the self-initiated actions to promote optimal wellness, recovery, and rehabilitation. The consequences of non-adherence are not only limited to the patient but lead to higher costs to the individual and ART program, hence a risk for society. Success of treatment of HIV infected patients is directly related to the adherence to ART. The effect of cognitive behavioural interventions on adherence to Anti-Retroviral Treatment in HIV patients was the aim of this study. In the present study total 390 HIV infected patients taking anti-retroviral treatment for more than 6 months were selected. All the patients included were from different regions of Maharashtra majority were from Marathwada. Morisky medication Adherence Scale a 9-item questionnaire was used for assessment of adherence to ART. After Pre and post cognitive behaviour interventions, collected data was analysed. Conclusions-Cognitive behavioural interventions significantly improved adherence to antiretroviral treatment.

Keywords: cognitive behavioral interventions, adherence, Antiretroviral.