Substance use and associated factors among HIV Positive clients Taking ART form Assela Hospital: A qualitative study

Background: A growing body of research work focuses on the intersection of substance use and sexual behavior as they affect the risk of HIV infection.Evidence has revealed that alcohol use and substance use are strongly related to the high risk sexual behaviors such as inconsistent condom use and having multiple sexual partners.Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore substance use and associated factors among HIV diagnosed individuals who are taking ART treatment from ART clinic at Assela Hospital, 2019.Methods: A total of ten purposively selected ART users were enrolled in in- depth interview. This study followed a phenomenological study design to explore substance use, and HIV transmission sexual behaviors using the experience of people living with HIV/AIDS. We interviewed five alcohol seller, three daily laborers, one driver and one retire individual from Government employ were asked about substance use history and sexual behaviors. Result: Participants of the study reported that, substance use is highly rampant among people leaving with HIV/AIDS. Although concern that use of ART and counseling during ART follow up might decrease sexual risk- taking behavior; this finding disclosed that unprotected sex is not reduced among HIV infected individuals who are taking ART treatment from Assela Hospital. May, 2019 This study highlights that being jobless, being divorced and working in the bar and being female respondent are main reasons for substance use and inconsistent condom use Conclusion: Peoples living with HIV/AIDS who are on ART are at significant risk for transmitting HIV to uninfected individuals. Positive prevention interventions are urgently needed for people living with HIV/AIDS.