Association between Treatment Adherence and Depression in Patients with HIV/AIDS

Background: Depression represents a significant issue among individuals diagnosed with HIV. A study conducted in Africa revealed that the prevalence of depression in this patient population may reach 63.1%. In Mexico, however, there is no existing literature on this matter. Antiretroviral therapy (ARV) is a vital component of treatment for individuals with HIV/AIDS. However, the efficacy of ARV may be compromised by poor adherence to treatment. The lack of adherence may be attributed to psychological factors, such as depression. Objective: To determine the presence and severity of depression and its relationship with adherence to treatment in patients with HIV/AIDS. Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and non-interventional study was conducted at the High-Specialty Regional Hospital ISSSTE (Institute for Social Security and Services for State Workers) in Veracruz, Mexico. Unit of analysis: 977 individuals, selected according to the pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria, with a confidence level of 99% and a confidence limit of 3.8%. Discussion: The lack of adherence to treatment in patients with HIV/AIDS was found to be directly proportional to the presence and severity of depression. Depression was identified in 81.17% of the total sample. 62.79% exhibited mild depression, 16.27% demonstrated moderate depression, and 20.93% displayed severe depression. In patients with poor adherence to treatment, severe depression was found in 91.37%. Additionally, comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension were observed with a higher frequency than reported in literature. Conclusion: We recommend establishing a systematic and individual psychological evaluation of HIV/AIDS patients and initiating measures for the early detection of depression. This approach will help to prevent a possible interruption or abandonment of antiretroviral treatment, and therefore therapeutic failure.