Perceptions and therapeutic challenges in the management of chronic STIs in Cameroon: A comparative study of HIV and Hepatitis B in CHUY

CaHReF 20116, Yaoundé Conges hall, 23 – 26 August 2016 , PL040

Sub-Saharan Africa and Cameroon in particular are experiencing a consistent increase in new cases of infections by HIV and Hepatitis B. The prevalence rate stands at 8-10% for Hepatitis B, and 4.3% for HIV in the general population of Cameroon. Surveys on therapeutic results show that there are more challenges in the therapeutic process of HIV than Hepatitis B infections. This disparity is as a result of the differences in perceptions of these infections with the same viral infections, mode of transmission (sex and blood), and chronic nature. There is a gap that creates fear, shame and self sanction for those infected with HIV, which prevent them from disclosing their status, thus exposing their uninfected partners. A health education system which embraces cultural and social ideology should therefore be adopted to maximize the spread of these infections which are a major public health problem. The objective of this study is to explain why there are still a lot of therapeutic challenges in the management of HIV with respect to Hepatitis B that have similarities in their modes of transmission, pathogenic and chronic forms.

A comparative study was carried out using interview guides for patients living with these infections and another for their care takers. This was to access the patients and care takers on their perceptions and the various behaviors adopted towards these infections. Data was collected through in-depth interview with patients who have to undergo a therapeutic education session to access their needs so as to assure a better medical care. This data was analyzed and interpretations drawn using the content analyzes model.

Our sample population consisted of those infected with HIV, HIV/Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis B infection and those who accompany them to this care unit. We interviewed 250 out of the lots that went through the therapeutic education. These were patients who needed a closed or individual counseling and education on the therapy (ARV) which they are taking or are to take. The special needs of the patients included psychological support, financial support for needy patients, nutritional support and a balanced diet for those who have

perceptions, therapeutic challenges, management, chronic STIs