Abstract

Long-acting antiretroviral treatment (LA ART) is crucial in achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes. Daily oral ART may assist individuals living with HIV (PLHIV) in attaining and sustaining lifelong viral suppression, but it necessitates consistent adherence over a lifetime. Long-acting injectable (LAI) ART could tackle some of the difficulties associated with a daily oral regimen and enhance treatment outcomes for PLHIV.

This study evaluated the acceptability and preferences for long-acting antiretroviral treatment (LAART) among individuals with HIV infection (PWH) and healthcare providers in two regions of Cameroon.

This research utilized a mixed-methods approach that encompassed both Quantitative (cross-sectional) design and Qualitative (in-depth interviews), conducted in the Bamenda and Limbe Regional Hospitals in the North West and South West Regions, respectively. The cross-sectional design involved administering pre-tested questionnaires to PLHIV accessing ART in HIV clinics.

In-depth interviews were conducted with HIV care providers delivering direct patient care at the HIV clinic and those offering technical support at the regional level. The questionnaires and IDIs were distributed by trained research assistants. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study included 405 PLHIV participants.

The average age of respondents was 42 ± 9 years, with 246 (60.7%) being female. About 324 (80%) expressed a willingness to utilize the LAART formulation. Regarding preferences for various LAART formulations, 319 (79%) of PLHIV favored injectable options. The majority (88.4%) of patients were unaware of LAART prior to the study, while 93.3% believed it could enhance their ART adherence.

Approximately 70% of participants indicated a willingness to pay for LAARTs. Males, those with higher income levels, and individuals with greater educational attainment were more inclined to pay for LAART. Most health professionals were aware of LAART, but none had reported ever witnessing it.

Common sentiments highlighted the benefits of LA ART in improving adherence and minimizing the pill burden for patients. Some concerns raised included possible side effects and a reduction in patient clinic visits, which could negatively affect the quality of follow-up.

This study revealed an overwhelming acceptance of long-acting ART amongst patients on ART in the study clinics and a general positive attitude amongst the care professionals. More research is needed to assess the feasibility of long-acting ART in Cameroon while giving preference to the injectable formulation. Check out: Public Health Project Topics with Materials

Check out: Public Health Project Topics with Materials