Self-reported adherence to HAART in South-Eastern Nigeria is related to patients' use of pill box

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess levels of adherence and predictors of adherence to HAART in South-Eastern Nigeria. Selfreported adherence to HAART was assessed at 4-week intervals for a period of 3 months. A 10-item questionnaire was used to assess hypothesised factors in adherence to HAART. The average adherence score for the 3 months of follow-up was correlated with 10-item hypothesised factors and patient demographic variables. Linear regression was used to model the relationship between self-reported adherence and factors found to be correlated with adherence. The average adherence level of subjects that took part in the study was 86.1% ± 30.1%. Use of an adherence aid (pill box) was correlated with adherence (r=0.22, p<0.001, ß=8.3%). The study revealed a slightly higher adherence level compared with most reports in Africa. Use of a pill box could help adherence to HAART, particularly in South-Eastern Nigeria.