📖 ABSTRACT/OVERVIEW
Background: Consistent adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is fundamental to achieving viral suppression, preventing resistance, and reducing HIV transmission. Nigeria has the second largest HIV burden globally, and adherence rates in certain regions remain inconsistent. This study evaluated ART adherence among HIV-positive adults in Lafia, Nasarawa State. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out at the antiretroviral therapy clinic of Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital. A validated 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) was used to assess adherence levels among 270 adult patients. Predictors of non-adherence were explored using binary logistic regression. Results: High adherence was recorded in 58 percent of patients, while moderate and low adherence were found in 28 percent and 14 percent respectively. Significant predictors of low adherence included pill burden (OR 2.4), stigma (OR 1.9), and travel distance to the clinic (OR 1.7). Patients enrolled in community-based support groups showed higher adherence rates. Conclusion: ART adherence in Nasarawa State is below the 95 percent threshold recommended for viral suppression. Community-based support, decentralisation of ART services, and stigma-reduction programmes are key to improving adherence outcomes. Keywords: antiretroviral therapy, adherence, HIV, Nasarawa, MMAS-8
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