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Abstract
Changing Attitudes to Improve Care for Pregnant women with HIV/AIDS in Russia
Zhukov I.1, Kornilova M.1
Introduction: In the Russian Federation (RF) all persons registered with HIV/AIDS are treated and monitored at regional AIDS Centers by infectious disease specialists. However, the numbers of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) are increasing rapidly nationwide and it is becoming more necessary for doctors from other fields to encounter them on a daily basis. Fear and preconceived judgments have a major impact on the provider’s willingness to treat this population, and influence both the therapeutic regimen prescribed and the quality of care received.
Methods: In 2004, AIDS Foundation East-West (AFEW) conducted research among doctors in five regions (Irkutsk, Chelyabinsk, Kazan, Omsk and Penza) within the prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) program. The scope of knowledge and understanding surrounding patient care were examined amongst 448 OB/GYNs and pediatricians.
Results: 72% responded that they provide care for PLWHA and 11% feel it is within their right to refuse medical care to them. 46% also feel that it is not necessary to prescribe antiretroviral therapy (ARV) to IDU because this risk group is not likely to adhere to consistent therapy. Only 56% were aware of the appropriate treatment components of MTCT such as ARV therapy during pregnancy and labor, medical therapy for the baby and replacement feeding. 21% do not support prescribing AZT and Nevirapine during pregnancy as they believe its effects are harmful to the woman. Clinician attitudes to PLWHA include 70% who feel frightened, 63% - pity, 84% - sympathy, 32% - fear, 9% - confusion and 4% - loathing. 89% of clinicians responded that they feel at risk of HIV infection at the workplace.
Conclusions: These fears and negative judgments, coupled with confusion regarding proper HIV treatment, dictate the necessity of focused trainings on improving the attitudes of health care workers in general, and towards PLWHA in particular.
The 3rd IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis and Treatment
Abstract no.
TuPe5.5P01
Suggested Citation
"ZhukovI., et al.
Changing Attitudes to Improve Care for Pregnant women with HIV/AIDS in Russia .
Poster Exhibition:
The 3rd IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis and Treatment:
Abstract no.
TuPe5.5P01"
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