“Some believe those who say they can cure it” perceived barriers to antiretroviral therapy for children living with HIV/AIDS: Qualitative exploration of caregivers experiences in tamale metropolis

Abstract

Background HIV/AIDS is now a chronic disease, as adherence to anti-retrovirals impacts positively on the quality as well as expectancy of life. However, there exist multifaceted barriers to treatments for which children are most disadvantaged. Since Ghana subscribed to the “treat all” policy less percentage (25.5%) of children (2–14 years) living with HIV/AIDS have been enrolled on the antiretroviral program compared to other categories of the population by 2019. At present no study has explored these barriers to children living with HIV/AIDS enrollment and adherence. This study aims to explore the perceived barriers of caregivers of children living with HIV/AIDS in the Tamale Metropolis. Methods We used descriptive phenomenology to explore the phenomena. Caregivers were purposively selected and interviewed till information became repetitive at the ninth (9th) caregiver. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data through face-to-face in-depth interviews which were audio recorded. The interviews lasted an average of 47 minutes. Audio interviews were transcribed verbatim (English) and translated back-to-back (Daghani) before analysis was done manually according to Collaizi’s seven-step approach. We used the Guba and Lincoln guidelines to ensure the rigour of the study and its findings. Results are presented in themes and supported with quotes. Results Six themes emerged from the analysis of the caregivers’ transcripts; (1) denial of HIV/AID diagnosis, (2) stock-outs and privacy at the clinic, (3) busy schedule and poor support, (4) ignorance and alternative herbal cure, (5) stigma and discrimination, (6) transportation and distance. Conclusion Perceived barriers are multi-dimensional and encountered by all PLWHA, especially children. These barriers could derail the gains of HIV/AIDS interventions among children. Adherence counselling among caregivers alongside campaigns among faith and herbal healers are of grave concern to reduce myths of cure.

How do caregivers of children living with HIV/AIDS cope, and where do they get support?: A qualitative study in Ghana

“…Disturbing episodes exist in low and middle‐income countries. In Nigeria, about 70% of medications are said to be adulterated or fake, 4 and in Ghana faith leaders are believed to be healing people from the virus 5,6 . The devastating nature of the pandemic has affected nearly every household across the world directly and indirectly.…”

“…In Nigeria, about 70% of medications are said to be adulterated or fake, 4 and in Ghana faith leaders are believed to be healing people from the virus. 5,6 The devastating nature of the pandemic has affected nearly every household across the world directly and indirectly. Many children have been orphaned by the virus in a typical study in rural Lesotho.…”

Facilitators and barriers to infant post-natal HIV prophylaxis, a qualitative sub-study of the PROMISE-EPI trial in Lusaka, Zambia

“…Several qualitative studies, implemented in low and middle income countries, assessed barriers to pediatric ARV adherence in children living with HIV (7)(8)(9), one focusing on infants living with HIV (9). To our knowledge, there are no similar studies on HIV PNP administered to HEU neonates and infants.…”