Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Transgender Women Living With HIV

TLDR

Transgender women experience high HIV rates, yet ART adherence among them has been understudied. The study assessed self‑reported ART adherence rates and correlates of nonadherence among 35 transgender women on ART. Data were collected from 35 transgender women on ART and compared to 2,770 other respondents, examining depression, adherence self‑efficacy, provider interactions, and perceived side effects. Transgender women on ART reported lower 90 % adherence rates, reduced confidence in managing treatment, and fewer positive provider interactions, underscoring the need for provider training and hormone therapy integration.

Abstract

Despite disproportionate rates of HIV among transgender women and evidence that medication adherence is necessary for treatment success and increased likelihood of survival, there has been little investigation into antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence issues among transgender women. This study examined rates of self-reported ART adherence among transgender women on ART (n = 35) and well-established correlates of nonadherence, including depression, adherence self-efficacy, patient perceptions of interactions with their providers, and perceived adverse side effects of ART compared to other respondents (n = 2,770). This study examined rates of self-reported ART adherence among transgender women on ART (n = 35) and well-established correlates of nonadherence, including depression, adherence self-efficacy, patient perceptions of interactions with their providers, and perceived adverse side effects of ART compared to other respondents (n = 2,770). Transgender women on ART were less likely to report 90% adherence rates or higher and reported less confidence in their abilities to integrate treatment regimens into their daily lives. When transgender women were compared to other respondents, regardless of the current medication regimen, they reported significantly fewer positive interactions with their health care providers. Training for providers and integration of hormone therapy into HIV care is recommended.