Submission ID 118266
| Issue/Objective | Depression represents a significant mental health challenge among adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV). Global adolescent depression rates range from 1.4% (ages 10-14) to 3.5% (ages 15-19), with sub-Saharan Africa showing a markedly higher prevalence at 26.9%. While research has established a clear connection between HIV status and mental health outcomes, there remains a critical gap in understanding the specific dynamics of depression among AYPLHIV in Rwanda. To address this knowledge gap, this study assesses the prevalence and factors of depression among AYPLHIV in Kigali and secondary cities of Rwanda. This research aims to provide essential insights that can inform targeted interventions and support services for this vulnerable group. |
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| Methodology/Approach | A cross-sectional study was conducted between March and June 2024 from adolescents and young people living with HIV (10-24 years) in health facilities across Kigali, Musanze, Muhanga, Rubavu, Nyagatare). clinical and programmatic data were analyzed using descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression. |
| Results | In a study of 457 adolescents and young adults living with HIV, depression was found to be prevalent, with 12% experiencing severe depression, 14% moderate depression, and 29% mild depression. Multivariate analysis revealed that food insecurity (aOR: 6.68, 95% CI [3.42-13.05], p < 0.001) and recent caregiver changes (aOR: 1.97, 95% CI [1.07-3.62], p = 0.029) were independently associated with higher depression rates. The mode of HIV transmission was significantly associated with depression, with those who acquired HIV through mother-to-child transmission having lower odds of depression compared to those who acquired it through sexual violence (OR: 0.21, 95% CI [0.05-0.80], p = 0.023). Additionally, individuals who had been admitted to the hospital in the last 12 months were more likely to suffer from depression (OR: 2.19, 95% CI [1.17-4.10], p = 0.014). |
| Discussion/Conclusion | This study emphasizes the urgent need for integrated mental health services in HIV care programs, highlighting a high prevalence of depression influenced by multiple socio-economic and clinical factors among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in urban Rwanda. Enhanced care frameworks could significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for this vulnerable population. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Olivier Ngenzi Wane CIIC-HIN Felix Kitema CIIC-HIN Kelly Mwiza CIIC-HIN Absolomon Gashaija CIIC-HIN |
