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In this prospective, randomized clinical trial, correlates of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) were assessed using a baseline questionnaire among 68 rural women living with AIDS (WLA) in India. Unadjusted analyses revealed positive relationships of ART adherence with Hindu religion and support from spouses and parents, whereas negative associations were found with depression, poor quality of life, and having 10 or more HIV symptoms. Multiple linear regression analysis also revealed that WLA who were Hindu, not depressed, had ART support from spouses and parents, and perceived some benefit from ART, were more adherent to ART than their respective counterparts. This study reveals the unique challenges which rural WLA experience and the need to mitigate these challenges early in ART treatment. Further, the findings enable the refinement of an intervention program that will focus on strengthening ART adherence among rural WLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although depression may be commonly experienced by persons living with AIDS, it may be challenging for health care providers to identify persons who are suffering from depression symptoms, particularly if they are living in the more isolated rural areas of India. The purpose of this study is to assess correlates of depression among women living with AIDS in rural Andhra Pradesh, India. A total of 68 rural women living with AIDS (WLA) completed baseline data and were assessed by means of structured instruments. Regression modeling revealed that disclosure avoidance and making at least six health care visits in the last six months were all associated with depression. Further, living with a spouse was associated with lower depressive symptom scores. Stigma was not found to be associated with depression. Understanding correlates of depression can lead the way toward designing culturally-tailored interventions that can mitigate disclosure avoidance and improve the health of women. A more comprehensive health focus may be needed to empower the women to seek quality care for both physical health, as well as mental health, symptomatology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]