Original Research Prevalence and predictors of HIV-related disability among people living with HIV in Nigeria

Temitope S. Oladejo, Hellen Myezwa, Adedayo T. Ajidahun, Sam Ibeneme

South African Journal of Physiotherapy | Vol 80, No 1 | a2001 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/sajp.v80i1.2001 | © 2024 Temitope S. Oladejo, Hellen Myezwa, Adedayo T. Ajidahun, Sam Ibeneme | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 15 October 2023 | Published: 30 July 2024

About the author(s) Temitope S. Oladejo, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Hellen Myezwa, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Adedayo T. Ajidahun, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Sam Ibeneme, Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: People living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH) live longer, but experience human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related comorbidities and disabilities that lower their quality of life. Understanding the prevalence, risk factors, and disability patterns is crucial for tailored interventions.

Objectives: To explore the prevalence and predictors of HIV-related disability among PLWH in Nigeria.

Method: This cross-sectional survey involved 385 PLWH, exploring demographic data, HIV history, recent symptoms, disability (measured by the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule–WHODAS 2.0). Descriptive statistics summarised the data, all variables were entered into univariate and multivariate regression models. IBM SPSS 25® was used for all analyses at a 95% confidence level.

Results: The prevalence of disability among PLWH was 39.5%, the mean age was 42.2 ± 10.43 years, and 73% of the participants were females. Factors significantly associated with disability were marital status (p = 0.009) and level of education (p = 0.001).

Conclusion: The study reveals a prevalence of disability (39.5%) among PLWH on antiretroviral therapy (ART), emphasising the need for tailored interventions considering socio-demographic factors. Continuous screening, risk identification, and effective management strategies are imperative, recognising disability as an indicator of health and quality of life.

Clinical implications: With PLWH experiencing increased life expectancy, the study underscores the need for an informed patient-centred approach to care, recognising the specific challenges faced by PLWH in Nigeria and guiding the development of targeted interventions to enhance both functional outcomes and overall well-being.

Keywords

HIV; disability; activities of daily living; health-related quality of life; prevalence; predictors.

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

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