Original Research Article
Year: 2021 | Month: July | Volume: 11 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 293-302
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20210740
Retention in HIV Care among Children Aged 0-14 Years and the Associated Family and Caregiver Factors in Embu County, Kenya
Ikiara, Eliza Kathure1, Orinda, George Owino2, Thigiti, Joseph Mwangi3
1MPH Candidate, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kenyatta University. P.O Box 43844 -00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
2Senior Lecturer, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, Kenyatta University. P.O Box 43844 -00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
3Senior Lecturer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Family Medicine Programme), School of Medicine, Kenyatta University. P.O Box 43844 -00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
Corresponding Author: Ikiara, Eliza Kathure
ABSTRACT
Background: Retention of children in HIV care is influenced by a number of factors, among them family and caregiver factors.
Objective: To determine the family and caregiver factors associated with retention in care.
Methods: We conducted a cross sectional study in level 4 and 5 hospitals in Embu county. Data were collected through interviews using a predesigned questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential data analysis was performed.
Results: We enrolled 238 participants between January and April 2018, comprising 143 males (50.5%) and 140 females (49.5%). The median age of the participants was 12 years (IQR 5). Two thirds of the minors were in primary school (192, 67.8%). More of the children’s mothers were HIV positive compared to the fathers (257 vs 99) though a greater number of the fathers had an unknown HIV status compared to the mothers (138 vs 21). Most minors (241, 85.2%) were retained in care throughout having never missed an appointment. The number of siblings alive (aOR 0.72, 95% CI: 0.56, 0.92), siblings with HIV (aOR 0.26, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.68), a HIV positive caregiver (aOR 5.48, 95% CI: 2.44, 12.97), stigma (aOR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.77), work duties of the caregiver (aOR 0.28, 95% CI 0.13, 0.58) and denial of HIV status by the caregiver (aOR 0.10, 95% CI 0.02, 0.47) were all associated with retention in HIV care.
Conclusion: A HIV positive caregiver was most likely to ensure a child is retained in care. Stigma and denial of HIV status still hinder retention.
Key words: Retention, HIV, children, caregiver.