Factors Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life in Cameroonian Adolescents Living with Perinatally Acquired HIV: A Cross-Sectional Study

What is known. Antiretroviral therapy has transformed perinatal HIV into a chronic condition. However, the focus in sub-Saharan Africa has largely been on biomedical outcomes, with less attention paid to the holistic well-being and quality of life of the growing population of adolescents living with HIV.

The problem addressed. We lack a clear understanding of what factors most significantly influence the day-to-day life quality of these adolescents, which is crucial for designing effective supportive interventions beyond medication.

What the study adds. In 156 Cameroonian adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV, we found the mean quality of life score was 68.4/100. Statistical modelling revealed that family structure and mental health were paramount. Having both parents alive increased quality of life scores, while moderate and severe depression decreased them by 6 and 12 points, respectively—these were the only factors that remained significant after controlling for others.

Implications. Holistic HIV care must actively address mental health and provide family-centered support. Routine screening for depression and dedicated counselling services, particularly for orphans, are not ancillary but essential components of care to ensure these adolescents thrive, not just survive.

This publication is available in full in  Health Research in Africa.