Evidence map›Paper›PMID 42016773›Full record

ArticleInternational journal of sexual health : official journal of the World Association for Sexual Health2026

Challenges and Enablers of Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Ethiopian Adolescents: A Qualitative Study.

Cheru Tesema Leshargie, Daniel Demant, Sahai Burrowes, Nakachew Mekonnen Alamrew, Jane Frawley

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Article in International journal of sexual health : official journal of the World Association for Sexual Health, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.

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1 · What the graph read from it

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4 · The record

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5 · Who and what money

Authors and funding

5 authors.

Cheru Tesema LeshargieDepartment of Public Health, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.
Daniel DemantSchool of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
Sahai BurrowesPublic Health Program, College of Education and Health Sciences, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA.
Nakachew Mekonnen AlamrewDepartment of Public Health, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.
Jane FrawleySchool of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia.

Funding

No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.

6 · The paper itself

Abstract

Background: Despite global decline in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related mortality, Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with 12 ALHIV from August to September 2021in Ethiopia's Amhara Region. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed, and analyzed using deductive coding and an interpretive phenomenological approach. Results: The analysis explored three prominent themes: (1) culture and religion, (2) connection and belonging, and (3) stigma and mental health. These themes collectively provide a comprehensive understanding of the barriers and facilitators influencing adolescent adherence to ART. Cultural and religious beliefs, especially those held by parents, such as misconceptions about long-term medication use, side effects of ART, and illness as divine punishment, acted as barriers to adherence. On the other hand, connection and belonging through family, community support, and shared experiences with peers facilitated adherence. However, stigma-whether internalized, experienced, or anticipated-caused isolation and mental health challenges, creating significant barriers to treatment adherence. Conclusion: This study sheds light on the multifaceted challenges faced by adolescents in adhering to HIV treatment, including cultural misconceptions, social and familial dynamics, and mental health barriers. Addressing these issues requires culturally sensitive health education and fostering environments that promote connection and support. Community-based interventions and peer networks can play a pivotal role in strengthening adherence, while stigma-reduction efforts are essential to addressing the mental health challenges adolescent's encounter. The findings highlight the need for a holistic approach integrating health education, stigma reduction, provider training, and mental health support to enhance adherence and outcomes for ALHIV.

Indexed as

AdolescentsAntiretroviral therapy adherenceEthiopiaHIV/AIDSqualitative studystigma and mental health

Identifiers

PMID42016773
PMCPMC13094218

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