Psychosocial Predictors of Adherence to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy

Abstract

This article reviews studies of psychosocial predictors of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) among HIV positive clients. Unstable housing and lack of HIV-specific social support predicted low HAART adherence in the studies where they were tested. The most consistent predictor of adherence problems across all populations and measures was active substance use, particularly cocaine use. Younger age and less than high school education were not consistently predictive. Depression predicted adherence problems measured by self-report but not by electronic monitoring. Supplementing the adherence support efforts by physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, clinicians in a range of disciplines and settings can assess and intervene on psychosocial risk factors and thereby reduce adherence problems regardless of their level of knowledge about HIV medications.

Key Words:

• Adherence
• compliance
• Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy
• psychosocial