A study examined factors limiting antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among persons with disabilities living with HIV in Nigeria. Thirteen service providers, including medical doctors and community workers, shared their insights through in-depth interviews across six states. The research highlighted that stigma and negative perceptions from service providers hinder adherence to ART. These issues are exacerbated by insufficient programming specifically tailored for this population. The study found that pervasive sociocultural beliefs contribute to stigma, which adversely affects treatment adherence. Additionally, the absence of disability-disaggregated data has led to a lack of recognition of persons with disabilities as a key population in the HIV response, resulting in limited targeted programming and funding. Stigmatizing attitudes among service providers, rooted in the medical model of disability, can compromise the quality of care received by this group. The study concludes that to meet Nigeria’s UN HIV targets of 95-95-95, it is crucial to improve support for persons with disabilities living with HIV, who are not currently acknowledged as a key population in the national response. Addressing these challenges could enhance Nigeria’s leadership in global HIV efforts.
"Double Wahala for dead body " - perspectives of service providers about adherence to antiretroviral therapy among persons with disabilities living with HIV in Nigeria
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