Comparative Analysis of Clinical Factors Affecting Quality of Life among HIV Positive Clients in Peer Support Group in a Tertiary Hospital in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The new test and treat paradigm for HIV positives irrespective of CD4 count may significantly reduce HIV and related illnesses. Further inroad into the effects of social support and clinical factors on quality of life (QoL) of these clients could improve management strategies. This study compared the support group and non-support group memberships for clinical determinants of QoL among HIV positive clients in a tertiary hospital in Anambra state, Nigeria. Methods: This was an institution based comparative study of 482 HIV positive clients selected using a two -stage sampling. Data collection was by interview using WHOQOLHIV-Bref and semi-structured questionnaire, while analysis was with statistical package for social sciences version 22.0. Chi-square test was used to identify statistically significant associations between variables, with level of significance set at p value of < 0.05. Results: Differences were found in duration of HAART treatment (p=0.003), year client first tested positive (p=0.028) for both groups, and between QoL among support group members thus:HIV stage (p=0.041) and adherence (p=<0.001) in physical domain; number of months on HAART (p=0.041) in psychological domain; HIV stage (p=0.009), adherence (p=0.014) in level of independence domain; adherence (p= 0.012) in social relationships domain; HIV stage (p=0.047) in environment domain and none in spirituality domain. Conclusions: This study found that some clinical factors as well as support group membership influence QoL and the extent depends on domains. We recommend that these factors, domains and support group membership should be put in perspective in planning care of HIV clients.