Geopolitical and cultural factors affecting ARV adherence on the US-Mexico border.
The data discussed represent the findings from a study by the NIH-funded Hispanic Health Disparities Research Center, exploring the influence of institutional and psychosocial factors on adherence to antiretroviral medications by Mexican-origin persons living with AIDS on the US-Mexico Border. A qualitative approach was utilized consisting of clinic observations, baseline and follow-up interviews with patients (N = 113), key informant interviews (N = 9) and focus groups (5) with patients and health providers. Findings include the social-normative, institutional and geo-political factors affecting treatment and service delivery as well as individual variation and culturally patterned behaviors. ARV adherence and retention were found to depend on complex interactions and negotiation of co-occurring factors including the experience of medications and side-effects, patient/provider relationships, cultural norms and the changing dynamics of international borders. We note effects of drug-related violence which created border-crossing obstacles influencing mobility, access to services and adherence.
College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA. mshedlin@nyu.edu
Michele G
MG
Shedlin
Carlos Ulises
CU
Decena
Oscar
O
Beltran
D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000208:ethnology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D055118:Medication Adherence / Q000208:ethnology; D008800:Mexico / Q000208:ethnology; D008875:Middle Aged; D011057:Politics; D036301:Qualitative Research; D014481:United States
D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents