Health, Nutrition and Treatment Compliance of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) at the Liberian Government Hospital in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, Liberia
Arthureen Tina Nessian *
Institute of Human Food and Nutrition, College of Human Ecology, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna, 4031, Philippines.
Leila S. Africa *
Institute of Human Food and Nutrition, College of Human Ecology, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna, 4031, Philippines.
Jaidee P. Agne
Institute of Human Food and Nutrition, College of Human Ecology, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna, 4031, Philippines and Science Education Institute, Department of Science and Technology, Taguig City, Metro Manila, 1631, Philippines.
Kristine V. Montecillo
Institute of Human Food and Nutrition, College of Human Ecology, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna, 4031, Philippines. 2Science Education Institute, Department of Science and Technology, Taguig City, Metro Manila, 1631, Philippines.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: To assess the nutritional and health status, and compliance with treatment and health services of adult people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) attending Liberian Government Hospital (LGH).
Study Design: Cross-sectional study
Place and Duration of Study: LGH, Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, 2018
Methodology: The survey was conducted among 90 adults PLWHA.
Results: The majority had acute HIV infection, and tuberculosis and herpes zoster were the most contracted opportunistic infections. Although the majority had normal nutritional status, malnutrition was still observed especially among the women. Most had poor diet diversity and claimed to have faced challenges, mainly monetary concerns, while some experienced other traumatic events. A few also showed indications of self-harm. Moreover, they generally have a good health condition and medication adherence and demonstrated substantial knowledge about the disease and its treatment. Compliance was found to be associated with the health status of the participants, but not with their nutrition status, socio-economic and other characteristics.
Conclusion: The results provide an insight into the nutritional status and compliance of the adult PLWHA in Liberia. It is hoped that this study would be useful in crafting and enhancing existing intervention programs and policies promoting the better quality of life of adult PLWHA in the country.
Keywords: Nutritional status, compliance, health services, adults, HIV, acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome