Keywords
therapeutic education
Stigma
Kwango Province
ROC curve
How to Cite
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains a major challenge in the fight against HIV/AIDS, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Optimal compliance—above 95% is essential to maintain an undetectable viral load, prevent the emergence of drug resistance, and improve patients’ quality of life. However, numerous individual, social, and institutional factors hinder adherence, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where access to treatment remains uneven. This cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study was conducted at the DREAM center in Kenge, Kwango province, between November 2024 and January 2025. A total of 185 HIV-positive patients, aged 18 and above and followed for at least three months, were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, and analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression. In conclusion, the study highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve therapeutic education, mitigate adverse effects and combat stigma, in order to strengthen the care of people living with HIIV in Kwango province.
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