Disclosure of HIV status among persons living with HIV/AIDS in the Kumasi Metropolis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Studies on HIV disclosure have revealed several benefits of disclosure; notably increased access to HIV services, improved adherence to treatment and decreased spread of infection. OBJECTIVES: To assess the rate of disclosure among PLWHA and also to identify potential barriers and facilitators to HIV positive status disclosure METHODS: A quantitative approach using a structured questionnaire was utilized to assess components associated with HIV/AIDS disclosure. A total of 400 PLWHA were recruited for the study using Cochran (1963) sample size formula. Findings were summarized as proportions and presented with tables, bar charts and pie charts. Association between variables were examined using Pearson‟s chi-square analysis with the P-value of less than 0.05. FINDINGS: Eighty-three (83) percent disclosure rate was reported in the study. Among the various socio-demographic factors tested in this study only marital status (p < 0.001) was significantly associated with HIV status disclosure. Those married were three (3) times more likely to disclose as compared to those who were single, there was no significant difference in the rates of disclosure among males and females in this study. Fear of stigmatization (95.5%), abandonment (95.5%), and upsetting family members (85.1%) came up strongly among respondents who had not disclosed their status as their reason. CONCLUSION: Policy makers, healthcare professionals and all stakeholders should generally make every effort to continue the fight against HIV/AIDS discrimination and stigma, and promote support for HIV disclosure