Promoting Dietary Adherence in Patients with HIV/AIDS: Use of the Information-Motivation-behavioral Skills Model

Background and Objectives: Malnutrition is a significant risk for patients with HIV/AIDS and accelerates the progression of the disease.This is because adequate nutrition is essential for the optimal functioning of the immune system.The aim of the current study was to develop and assess an intervention program to promote dietary adherence in patients with HIV/AIDS referring to behavioral counseling centers in Kermanshah City, Iran, based on the informationmotivation-behavioral skills model. Materials and Methods:The current study was a quasi-experimental study carried out on 150 patients with HIV/AIDS in Kermanshah City, Iran, using random selection and allocation into two intervention and control groups (75 patients in each group), 2021.Development of the intervention program was carried out based on needs assessment based on information-motivation-behavioral skills model and intervention mapping approach.Data were collected from patients before and three months after the program.Data were analyzed using SPSS-16 statistical software. Results:After the beginning of the program in the intervention group, the average score of motivation (p< 0.001, d = 0.48) and behavioral skills (p = 0.016, d = 0.48) were significantly higher than those in the control group.The estimated effect size for information, motivation, behavioral skills and appropriate diet compliance behaviors were 0.07, 0.76, 0.39 and 0.12, respectively. Conclusion:Information-motivation-behavioral skills model can be used for the development of programs to promote dietary compliance in patients with HIV/AIDS.