Health-Related Quality of Life in a Sample of HIV-Infected South Africans

ABSTRACT

The study aims to assess the health-related quality of life and HIV symptoms of a sample of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in South Africa. The sample included 607 PLHIV from all districts of the Eastern Cape Province; recruited either through a health facility; from the community through key informants; or through support groups. At the time of the study; 66of the respondents reported having been given an AIDS diagnosis (advanced stage of HIV disease); 48were on antiretroviral therapy (ART); and 35were receiving a disability grant. The findings indicate a low degree of overall quality of life; with a mean score of 13.4 on the WHOQOL-HIV measure. Among the WHOQOL-HIV BREF subscales; logistic regression identified spirituality; environment; psychological health; and level of independence as predictors for overall quality of life. Among medical variables and HIV symptoms; CD4 cell count and having fewer HIV symptoms but not an AIDS diagnosis were identified as predictors for overall quality of life; among socio-economic variables; having sufficient food and a higher educational level were identified as predictors. The results highlight the need for better access to psychosocial support and medical services for PLHIV in South Africa; as well as the need to consider a patient's general health perceptions during the course of ART