"Lighten This Burden of Ours": Acceptability and Preferences Regarding Injectable Antiretroviral Treatment Among Adults and Youth Living With HIV in Coastal Kenya

J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care. 2021 Jan-Dec:20:23259582211000517. doi: 10.1177/23259582211000517.

Abstract

Background: Long-acting injectable (LAI) antiretroviral therapy (ART) may offer persons living with HIV (PLWH) an attractive alternative to pill-based treatment options, yet acceptability data remain scant, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods: We conducted 6 focus group discussions with PLWH, including key stake holder groups, and analyzed data with content analysis.

Results: Initial reactions to the idea of LAI-ART were often positive. The primary advantages voiced were potential to facilitate improved adherence and alleviate the burden of daily pill-taking while avoiding inadvertent disclosure and HIV stigma. Potential side effects were a particular concern of the women. Most participants preferred clinic-based administration over self-injections at home due to concerns about safety, privacy, and potential need for refrigeration.

Conclusions: LAI-ART may be acceptable in Kenya, provided injections are infrequent and delivered in a clinic setting. However, HIV stigma, fear of potential side effects, and limited clinical capacity would need to be addressed.

Keywords: Africa; HIV/AIDS; Kenya; acceptability; long-acting injectable ART; qualitative.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active / methods*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Kenya
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care*
  • Patient Preference*
  • Qualitative Research
  • Social Stigma*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents