Substance use and associated factors among HIV Positive clients Taking ART form Assela Hospital: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: A growing body of research work focuses on the intersection
of substance use and sexual behavior as they affect the risk of HIV infection.
Evidence has revealed that alcohol use and substance use are strongly related
to the high risk sexual behaviors such as inconsistent condom use and having
multiple sexual partners.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore substance use and
associated factors among HIV diagnosed individuals who are taking ART
treatment from ART clinic at Assela Hospital, 2019.
Methods: A total of ten purposively selected ART users were enrolled in in-
depth interview. This study followed a phenomenological study design to
explore substance use, and HIV transmission sexual behaviors using the
experience of people living with HIV/AIDS. We interviewed five alcohol
seller, three daily laborers, one driver and one retire individual from
Government employ were asked about substance use history and sexual
behaviors.
Result: Participants of the study reported that, substance use is highly
rampant among people leaving with HIV/AIDS. Although concern that use
of ART and counseling during ART follow up might decrease sexual risk-
taking behavior; this finding disclosed that unprotected sex is not reduced
among HIV infected individuals who are taking ART treatment from Assela Hospital.
May, 2019
This study highlights that being jobless, being divorced and
working in the bar and being female respondent are main reasons for
substance use and inconsistent condom use
Conclusion: Peoples living with HIV/AIDS who are on ART are at
significant risk for transmitting HIV to uninfected individuals.
Positive prevention interventions are urgently needed for people living with
HIV/AIDS.