Opportunities and inequalities of antiretroviral treatment in the developing world: a focus on medical adherence in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

This thesis investigates the opportunities and inequalities that come with undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) as a person living with HIV in the Developing World.

Furthermore, this thesis analyzes the factors that enhance as well as challenge medical adherence to antiretroviral therapy in Sub-Saharan Africa. Several ethnographic studies from various developing countries were used to explore and analyze how life with HIV and ART is lived and perceived in the Developing World. To furthermore connect the data from the above-mentioned ethnographic research with the ART rollout programs in the Developing World, articles and reports from international organizations, agencies and initiatives were incorporated into this thesis, to furthermore give a greater understanding of the relationship between financing, governing and policy bodies and the individual living with HIV. The results of this thesis have shown that people living with HIV in the Developing World face many inequalities when accessing ART, as they are confronted with stigmatization and discrimination when their status becomes public. Nevertheless, ART also promises them a longer and healthier life which lets them engage and nurture social relationships, which have been found to be essential to survival as they promise assistance in times of economic hardship.