Psychiatric correlates of HAART utilization and viral load among HIV-positive impoverished persons.

Adam W. Carrico, David R. Bangsberg, Sheri D. Weiser, Maggie Chartier, Samantha E. Dilworth, Elise D. Riley

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

39 Scopus citations

Abstract

Research on the role psychiatric factors in HIV disease management has yielded discrepant findings, possibly because prior studies did not include comprehensive psychiatric screeners. This study administered a validated screener to examine psychiatric correlates of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) utilization and viral load. Community-recruited, HIV-positive impoverished persons provided sociodemographic information, completed a Diagnostic Interview Schedule that screened for psychiatric disorders, and provided a blood sample to measure HIV disease markers. In this cross-sectional investigation with 227 participants, a multiple logistic regression model examined correlates of HAART utilization compared to a reference group that was eligible for (i.e. CD4(+) cell count <350 cells/μl) but not taking HAART. A multiple linear regression model examined correlates of HIV viral load among 147 participants on HAART. Sleeping on the street [adjusted OR (AOR) = 0.06; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.01-0.26] and screening positive for a stimulant use disorder (AOR = 0.29; 95% CI = 0.13-0.65) were independently associated with lower odds of HAART utilization. Conversely, enrollment in the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (AOR = 3.94; 95% CI = 1.45-10.73) and receipt of mental health treatment (AOR = 4.78; 95% CI = 1.77-12.87) were independently associated with increased odds of HAART utilization. Among those on HAART, screening positive for a severe mental illness was independently associated with a six-fold higher viral load. Providing psychiatric treatment could optimize health outcomes among HIV-positive impoverished persons and boost the effectiveness of 'test and treat' approaches to HIV prevention.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1113-1118
Number of pages6
JournalAIDS (London, England)
Volume25
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - May 15 2011
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology
  • Infectious Diseases

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