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This study examines the role of poverty in the acquisition of and the adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and prescribed clinical follow-up regimens among HIV-positive women. We conducted in-depth interviews with 40 women living with HIV (WLHIV) in Ghana and 15 stakeholders with a history of work in HIV-focused programs. Our findings indicate that financial difficulty contributed to limited ability to maintain treatment, the recommended nutrient-rich diet, and clinical follow-up schedules. However, enacted stigma and concurrent illness of family members also influenced the ability of the WLHIV to generate income; therefore, HIV infection itself contributed to poverty. To further examine the relation between finances, ART adherence, and the maintenance of recommended clinical follow-up, we present the perspectives of several HIV-positive peer counselor volunteers in Ghana's Models of Hope program. We recommend that programs to combat stigma continue to be implemented, as decreased stigma may reduce the financial difficulties of HIV-positive individuals. We also recommend enhancing current support programs to better assist peer counselor volunteers, as their role directly supports Ghana's national strategic HIV/AIDS plan. Finally, additional investment in poverty-reduction across Ghana, such as broadening meal assistance beyond the currently limited food programs, would lighten the load of those struggling to combat HIV and meet basic needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although disclosure of positive HIV status has recognized benefits, enacted and perceived stigma is a continuing problem in Ghana, especially affecting women living with HIV (WLHIV). This qualitative study investigates how WLHIV make these decisions. We interviewed 40 WLHIV, analysing their transcripts using thematic content analysis. Four themes emerged from the data: selectivity in disclosure; disclosure for education, prevention and to provide support; concern for the potential confident, and safety in secrets. Women’s awareness of and concerns about HIV-related stigma led them to seriously weigh the costs and benefits of disclosure decisions. Overall, our participants disclosed only when they believed that disclosure would benefit them or the confidant. They did not condone open disclosure, and preferred non-disclosure to minimize harm to themselves and loved ones. Though disclosure occurred for HIV education and prevention purposes, personal safety was the priority. We recommend revision of current post-HIV testing and pre-treatment counselling procedures to incorporate WLHIVs’ judgements about disclosure and discussion of the perceived benefits of disclosure. Disclosure is an intricate process that involves support seeking and educating others while averting harm. Continued research of the factors related to disclosure is important to enhance understanding of the disclosure process. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]