Navigating socio-ecological and institutional barriers to antiretroviral therapy adherence: qualitative insights among young men and women from Nairobi's informal settlements.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) pandemic remains a major global health issue, with 40.8 million people affected at the end of 2024. In Sub-Saharan Africa, Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) coverage reached 74%, though adherence remained challenging, particularly among youth due to poverty, stigma, and weak health systems.

Aim

This paper explored socio-ecological and institutional barriers to ART adherence among young men and women aged 18-24 living in Kibra, Nairobi's largest informal settlement.

Methods

The study utilized phenomenological research design to explore lived experiences within social contexts to uncover hidden structural barriers using qualitative methods. In-depth interviews (n = 25), key

SUBMITTER: Muhenje O 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12507891 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature