Prevalence and Factors Associated with Depression among People Living with Hiv in Kicukiro Health Center, Rwanda

Abstract: Background: Depression is a common mental health issue among people living with HIV (PLWH), significantly affecting their quality of life, treatment adherence, and overall health outcomes. While adolescent depression in HIV-positive populations has been studied, adult-focused research in Rwanda is limited. This study assessed the prevalence and associated factors of depression among HIV-positive adults aged 18 and above attending Kicukiro Health Center in Kigali. Materials and Methods: Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, 349 participants were systematically selected from 2,278 ART clients. Data collection employed structured questionnaires, including the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression screening. Analysis involved descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. Results; Findings revealed that 30.09% of participants exhibited symptoms of depression, a rate consistent with other resource-limited settings. Key factors associated with increased depression risk included being female (COR = 1.88), being single, widowed, or divorced (COR = 2.28), and inconsistent adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) (COR = 4.59). The most significant barrier to accessing mental health care was financial cost (COR = 8.66). This study highlights the urgent need to integrate mental health services within HIV care, especially in resource-limited settings. Its findings provide critical insights for healthcare providers, emphasizing the importance of regular depression screening and targeted interventions to improve mental health and ART adherence. The research supports the development of mental health training programs for HIV care providers and informs data-driven policymaking and resource allocation. Conclusion: By addressing depression in PLWH, particularly at facilities like Kicukiro Health Center, this study contributes to improving overall patient outcomes and raising community awareness about the intersection of HIV and mental health. Ethical clearance was secured from Mount Kenya University’s Institutional Review Board, ensuring confidentiality and informed consent. Keywords: Prevalence, Depression, People Living with HIV, Kicukiro Health Center, Rwanda. Title: Prevalence and Factors Associated with Depression among People Living with Hiv in Kicukiro Health Center, Rwanda Author: Mr. Jean Damour NIYONZIMA, Dr. Jean Damascene IYAMUREMYE, Dr. Mochama Monica Nyamusi International Journal of Healthcare Sciences ISSN 2348-5728 (Online) Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025 Page No: 233-249 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 16-June-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15671809 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/prevalence-and-factors-associated-with-depression-among-people-living-with-hiv-in-kicukiro-health-center-rwanda