Gender differences in adherence to treatment and illness behavior in HIV/AIDS patients: an exploratory study in Spain

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Volume 2 Num. 2

Volume 2 Num. 2 - December 2002

Gender Differences in Adherence to Treatment and Illness Behavior in HIV/AIDS Patients: An Exploratory Study in Spain [Diferencias de G énero en la Adherencia al Tratamiento y en Comportamientos de Riesgo en Pacientes de VIH/SIDA: Un Estudio Exploratorio en España]

Volume 2 Num. 2 - December 2002 - Pages 219-236

Authors:

Rafael Ballester, Santiago García, Idoia Reinoso and Ana Campos , ,

Abstract:

In this paper we have analyzed the gender differences in adherence to treatment and illness behavior of HIV/AIDS patients. The sample consisted of 69 HIV patients, taking HAART, obtained at the Castellón General Hospital Internal Medicine Service. We evaluated, not only the variables directly linked with the adherence such as the patient's report about the change of risk behaviors, the compliance with the drug treatment and the assistance to the medical appointments, but also other illness behavior variables that can be related such as the patient's assessment about the illness seriousness, his/her expectations about the treatment or his/her relationship with the doctor. In general, the results do not show significant statistical differences between men and women. Significant differences are obtained in only 6% of variables, specifically in some risk factors and in the belief (higher in women) that the antiretroviral treatment will be completely ineffective. Logistic regression analysis do not evidence that sex contribute to predict adherence.

Key words:

HIV, AIDS, Adherence, Gender differences

Full Article

English (PDF)

International Journal of Psychology and Psychological Therapy

Volume 2 Num. 2 - December 2002