Awareness, attitude and adherence on isoniazid presumptive treatment among HIV patients at Kampala International University teaching hospital HIV clinic

In sub-Saharan African countries where both tuberculosis (TB) and HIV are endemic, isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) for people living with HIV (PLHIV) is a crucial public health intervention. It helps reduce the risk of TB, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among PLHIV. This study aimed to assess awareness, attitudes, and adherence to isoniazid preventive therapy among HIV-positive clients attending the HIV clinic at KIU Teaching Hospital (KIU-TH) in Bushenyi District. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 58 HIV-positive clients at KIU-TH. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed manually using Microsoft Excel. Findings were presented in tables and figures as frequencies and percentages for easy interpretation. Results show that majority (50/58; 86%) of participants had heard about IPT for TB, with 28 (56%) obtaining information from healthcare workers. Additionally, 24 (48%) of HIV patients on ART recognized isoniazid as a preventive measure for TB. More than half (28; 56%) of participants believed isoniazid had numerous side effects. A significant proportion (33; 66%) perceived mandatory IPT for all HIV-positive individuals as a form of discrimination. Almost all participants (48; 96%) had been screened for IPT eligibility. However, 32 (66.6%) had never taken IPT, and among those who had, the majority (9/16; 56.25%) did not complete the full course within the recommended period. In conclusion, while awareness of IPT among HIV patients was relatively high, attitudes and adherence levels were poor. Many patients expressed concerns about side effects, stigma, and the perceived risks of taking IPT alongside ART. There was also skepticism regarding the increased TB risk for HIV-positive individuals compared to their HIV-negative counterparts. These findings highlight the need for enhanced health education and interventions to improve IPT uptake and adherence among PLHIV. Keywords: Isoniazid Preventive Therapy (IPT), HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis (TB), Adherence, Awareness and Attitudes