The Impact of Demographic Factors on Adverse Drug Reactions and Survival Rates Among Hiv Patients in Nairobi County From 2015 to 2021

Abstract

Background: Among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) Antiretroviral therapy (ART) plays a pivotal role, substantially elevating the quality of life and life expectancy. However, adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a significant concern for those on HIV treatment. These reactions often translate to suboptimal adherence, engendering psychological distress and imparting additional financial strains on the healthcare system, especially in cases necessitating hospitalization. Furthermore, they tend to discourage individuals from assuming responsibility for their own health, posing formidable challenges to effective treatment and further prevention of HIV transmission. Hence, effective detection and management of ADRs emerged as critical requisites to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and avert untoward repercussions. Broad Objective: The broad objective of this study was to comprehensively examine and understand the relationship between demographic factors, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and survival rates among HIV patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Nairobi County from 2015 to 2021. Methodology: Employing a cross-sectional design and drawing upon secondary data from healthcare facilities in Nairobi City County offering antiretroviral therapy, the study provided a descriptive summation of the data, offering crucial insights into the distribution of ADRs among PLWHA. Survival analysis techniques, including Kaplan-Meier survival curves, were employed to estimate the prevalence of ADRs over time. The Log-rank test was wielded to scrutinize disparities in survival profiles among different demographic or clinical groups. Additionally, Cox proportional hazards regression models unearthed factors intricately associated with the onset of ADRs among PLWHA. Throughout the study, stringent ethical considerations were upheld. All data was meticulously anonymized and treated with the utmost confidentiality to safeguard the privacy of the individuals encompassed. The study seamlessly aligned with established ethical protocols and frameworks governing data collection and analysis within the ambit of Pharmacovigilance in Kenya. Significance of the study: The study's findings promised to shed light on crucial facets associated with ADR management, augmenting ART compliance, and ultimately fortifying the public health framework. Its salience lay in its potential to bridge knowledge gaps and elevate the standard of care for PLWHA in Nairobi City County, thereby contributing tangibly to the collective pursuit of a healthier populace. Summary of Results: The study found significant correlations between demographic factors and ADR occurrences among PLWHA in Nairobi County. Females exhibited higher ADR rates compared to males, and age significantly influenced ADR severity, with the older age group displaying higher risks. Survival analysis indicates that ADR incidence is highest in the initial years of antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and diminishes over time. Conclusion: The influence of demographic factors on survival rate is evident, with age, and education statistically significant. This study underscores the importance of tailored interventions for different demographic groups to enhance ADR management and improve overall treatment outcomes for PLWHA in Nairobi County. Recommendations: Tailored interventions should be implemented to address ADRs among PLWHA, with specific focus on gender and age-based differences. Continuous pharmacovigilance efforts should be implemented for ongoing ADR monitoring and management. Additionally, healthcare providers should be equipped with the necessary training and resources to effectively identify and address ADRs among PLWHA.