Publications

HIV/AIDS remains a pressing global health concern, particularly impacting socio-economicdevelopment in various African nations, Uganda included. Revealing one's HIV-positivestatus to a family member or relative is crucial for adherence to effective antiretroviraltherapy, which significantly enhances the survival and well-being of those living with HIV.To evaluate the hurdles faced by individuals with HIV at Kakomo HC IV in Kabale Districtregarding disclosure and to curtail new infections in this community, a descriptive crosssectionalstudy was conducted. The study sampled individuals living with HIV at KakomoHC IV randomly, utilizing a pretested questionnaire as the data collection instrument. Thegathered data underwent coding, sorting, entry, and analysis through statistical software(SPSS), presented via tables and charts. Findings revealed that only 40 (50.6%) wereadequately prepared before disclosing their status, while 30 (37.0%) neither prepared nordisclosed to anyone. 61 (63.5%) received education on the importance of disclosure duringclinic visits, but 26 (46.4%) neither disclosed nor received such education. Barriers todisclosure primarily stemmed from anxiety about blame, stigma, fear of losing a partner,and violence among 18 (54.5%), 19 (52.8%), 30 (39.0%), and 2 (18.2%) individuals,respectively. Despite 62 (43.4%) intending to disclose to someone, 88 (98.9%) faced barriersto disclosing their status. Misconceptions in 51 (31.9%) communities and potentialdiscrimination by families in the same proportion highlighted the challenges.Consequently, 123 (76.9%) still fear others spreading word of their HIV-positive status.Understanding disclosure motivations is crucial, requiring tailored strategies for decisionmakingbased on the discloser's needs and their intended audience. The significance ofsupport, proximity, and relational dynamics between the discloser and the recipientemphasizes the necessity for a secure environment during disclosure.Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Antiretroviral therapy, HIV-positive, HIV status, Stigma.