Abstract #30  -  Prevalence and predictors of anxiety and depression in adults enrolled in the public sector ART programme in the Free State
Authors:   Presenting Author:   Ms Michele Pappin - University of the Free State
Additional Authors:  Prof Frikkie Booysen, Dr Edwin Wouters,
Aim: To determine the prevalence of anxiety and depression and identify predictors of anxiety and depression among HIV+ adult patients enrolled in the public sector antiretroviral treatment programme in South Africa.
Method / Issue: Six hundred and twenty adults initiating antiretroviral treatment as part of the public sector antiretroviral treatment programme in the Free State were recruited into the study in 2007/08. Anxiety and depression were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Trained enumerators conducted structured face-to face interviews with study participants. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine predictors of anxiety and depression in the study population.
Results / Comments: Among study participants, 15% and 9% suffer from anxiety and depression, respectively.In the logistic regression models, coping was negatively associated with anxiety, while coping, health related quality of life and adherence were negatively and financial status and treatment buddy positively associated with depression.
Discussion: Treatment success promises to improve ART client’s mental health. However, ART programmes should also incorporate state-of-the-art mental health care interventions to ensure that ART patients with anxiety and depression are diagnosed and treated, given that good mental health is also important in ensuring treatment success. In addition, ART patients should be equipped with positive coping skills during drug readiness training.
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