A study on social support and associated factors among HIV/AIDS patients in Liangshan / 中华疾病控制杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To assess the social support of PLWHA in Liangshan and explore the associated factors. Methods A total of PLWHA 322 was selected by two-stage sampling. The questionnaire consisted of basic characteristics,simplified Chinese medical outcomes study social support survey and family concern index questionnaire. Results The social support score of PLWHA was 46.09（32.49，61.59）in Liangshan, which was lower than other regions of China. Scores of four dimensions were listed as follows tangible support 56.25（29.69，75.00）, affectionate support 50.00（33.33，75.00）, positive social interaction 46.88（31.25，56.25）, informational and emotional support 43.75（25.00，56.25）. Multiple stepwise regression analysis suggested that the older PLWHA had lower sores of the social support（β=-1.997，P=0.037）; PLWHA who were living alone got lower sores of the social support（β=8.127, P=0.008）; PLWHA who were more satisfied with family function was associated with higher scores of social support（β=13.809,P<0.001）. Conclusions The status of social support among PLWHA was poor in Liangshan, which needed urgent improvement. Meanwhile, PLWHA who were older and living alone needed special attention. Health care workers should help PLWHA build a comprehensive family support system.