Exploring reasons for starting antiretroviral treatment early among patients in South Africa

All People living with HIV (PLHIV) regardless of CD4 counts and clinical staging are eligible to be initiated on antiretroviral treatment (ART) immediately and/or as soon as they are ready. A high proportion of people have been tested, diagnosed and started on treatment, however, retaining them in care remains a challenge. Therefore, this study aimed to explore reasons for starting ART early among ART patients in Ekurhuleni North sub-district in South Africa. This was a explorative qualitative study whereby the researcher interviewed 26 participants over 18 years of age living with HIV-initiated ART and have been on treatment for at least 6-12 months. Interviews were transcribed, managed using NVIVO 12 software and analysed thematically. Five major themes were identified when explored the reasons for taking ART early. The themes were: Fears and doubts about starting ART, Motivation to start ART early, Anticipated benefits of starting ART, Comparing ART to basic needs and other treatments, and Perceptions about stopping ART. Public awareness, continuous counselling and support for PLHIV are needed to increase UTT uptake and retain those already in HIV care.