Factors Influencing Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Adolescents Living with HIV in Taraba State, North East Nigeria

Antiretroviral therapy adherence among adolescents living with HIV in Nigeria is significantly lower than among adult populations, threatening viral suppression rates and increasing drug resistance risk at a critical developmental stage. This study identifies the factors influencing antiretroviral therapy adherence among adolescents aged 10 to 19 years living with HIV in Taraba State. A mixed-methods cross-sectional design is applied, with 245 adolescents recruited from four antiretroviral therapy clinics in Jalingo, Wukari, and Zing local government areas through systematic sampling. Quantitative questionnaires assess adherence levels using the Visual Analogue Scale, pill counts, and self-report measures, alongside scales measuring stigma, disclosure status, caregiver support, side effect experience, and pill burden. Fifteen in-depth interviews with purposively selected adolescents and caregivers explore lived adherence experiences. Quantitative data are analysed using SPSS with logistic regression, and qualitative data undergo thematic analysis. Literature from the West African region consistently identifies stigma, inadequate disclosure support, taste of medications, and inconsistent caregiver engagement as the primary adherence barriers for adolescent populations. The Information-Motivation-Behavioural Skills model provides the study's theoretical framework. Findings will guide Taraba State's AIDS Control Programme in structuring adolescent-centred adherence support clubs and disclosure counselling services. Keywords: antiretroviral therapy adherence, adolescents, HIV, Taraba State, North East Nigeria.