Assessment of male partner involvement in triple ART drug adherence and associated factors among HIV-positive pregnant women in government hospitals of the North Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023: a multicentre cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background The involvement of male partners in the care and treatment of HIV-positive pregnant women is essential for improving health outcomes and ensuring optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Although ART has been shown to be effective in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, maintaining adherence to the prescribed triple ART regimen remains a significant challenge. However, there has been a lack of research on the role of male partners in supporting ART adherence during pregnancy.Objective To assess male partner involvement in triple ART drug adherence and associated factors among HIV-positive pregnant women in government hospitals of the North Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023.Design An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted.Setting The study was carried out in hospitals located in the North Gojjam Zone of Northwest Ethiopia.Participants The study was conducted among 410 male partners of HIV-positive pregnant women from 1 April 2023 to 30 May 2023.Primary and secondary outcomes The primary outcome was to assess the involvement of male partners in triple ART adherence, while the secondary outcome was to identify factors associated with the involvement of male partners on triple ART adherence among HIV-positive pregnant women. The association between variables was assessed using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models, and a p value <0.05 with a 95% CI was considered statistically significant.Results A total of 410 participants were included, with a response rate of 97.2%. The prevalence of male partner involvement in triple ART drug adherence among HIV-positive pregnant women was 21.2%. Multivariable logistic regression showed that educational status (AOR (Adjusted Odds Ratio)=2.5, 95% CI 1.26 to 4.96), place of residence (AOR=4.8, 95% CI 3.17 to 7.27), and the time taken to travel from home to the facility (AOR=3.1, 95% CI 1.51 to 6.36) were significantly associated with male partner involvement.Conclusion This study demonstrates that compared with a study conducted in Malawi, male partner involvement in triple ART drug adherence was lower. Male partner involvement in triple ART adherence among HIV-positive pregnant women was strongly associated with educational status, place of residence and the time taken to travel from home to the health facility. Empowering men to actively participate in healthcare decisions and treatment plans for their partners can foster a sense of responsibility and enhance commitment to adherence.