HIV Patient Characteristics that Affect Adherence to Exercise Programmes: An Observational Study

Piloting an online telecoaching community-based exercise intervention with adults living with HIV: protocol for a mixed-methods implementation science study

INTRODUCTION

Our aim is to evaluate the implementation of an online telecoaching community-based exercise (CBE) intervention with the goal of reducing disability and enhancing physical activity and health among adults living with HIV.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will conduct a prospective longitudinal mixed-methods two-phased intervention study to pilot the implementation of an online CBE intervention with ~30 adults (≥18 years) living with HIV who consider themselves safe to participate in exercise. In the intervention phase (0-6 months), participants will take part in an online CBE intervention involving thrice weekly exercise (aerobic, resistance, balance and flexibility), with supervised biweekly personal training sessions with a fitness instructor, YMCA membership providing access to online exercise classes, wireless physical activity monitor to track physical activity and monthly online educational sessions on topics related to HIV, physical activity and health. In the follow-up phase (6-12 months), participants will be encouraged to continue independent exercise thrice weekly. Quantitative assessment: Bimonthly, we will assess cardiopulmonary fitness, strength, weight, body composition and flexibility, followed by administering self-reported questionnaires to assess disability, contextual factor outcomes (mastery, engagement in care, stigma, social support), implementation factors (cost, feasibility, technology), health status and self-reported physical activity. We will conduct a segmented regression analyses to describe the change in level and trend between the intervention and follow-up phases. Qualitative assessment: We will conduct online interviews with a subsample of ~10 participants and 5 CBE stakeholders at baseline (month 0), postintervention (month 6) and end of follow-up (month 12) to explore experiences, impact and implementation factors for online CBE. Interviews will be audiorecorded and analysed using content analytical techniques.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Protocol approved by the University of Toronto Research Ethics Board (Protocol # 40410). Knowledge translation will occur in the form of presentations and publications in open-access peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05006391.

The Role of the Social Determinants of Health on Engagement in Physical Activity or Exercise among Adults Living with HIV: A Scoping Review

Physical activity (PA) and exercise are an effective rehabilitation strategy to improve health outcomes among people living with HIV (PLWH). However, engagement in exercise among PLWH can vary. Our aim was to characterize the literature on the role of social determinants of health (SDOH) on engagement in PA or exercise among adults living with HIV. We conducted a scoping review using the Arksey and O'Malley Framework. We searched databases between 1996 and 2021. We included articles that examined PA or exercise among adults with HIV and addressed at least one SDOH from the Public Health Agency of Canada Framework. We extracted data from included articles onto a data extraction charting form, and collated results using content analytical techniques. Of the 11,060 citations, we included 41 articles, with 35 studies involving primary data collection 23 (66%) quantitative, 8 (23%) qualitative, and four (11%) mixed methods. Of the 14,835 participants, 6398 (43%) were women. Gender (n = 24 articles), social support (n = 15), and income and social status (n = 14) were the most commonly reported SDOH in the literature with the majority of studies addressing only one SDOH. Future research should consider the intersection between multiple SDOH to better understand their combined impact on engagement in PA or exercise among PLWH.

Examining the impact of a community-based exercise intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness, cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility and physical activity among adults living with HIV: A three-phased intervention study

PURPOSE

Our aim was to examine the impact of a community-based exercise (CBE) intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness, cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and physical activity outcomes among adults living with HIV.

METHODS

We conducted a longitudinal intervention study with community-dwelling adults living with HIV in Toronto, Canada. We measured cardiopulmonary fitness (V̇O2peak (primary outcome), heart rate, blood pressure), strength (grip strength, vertical jump, back extension, push-ups, curl ups), flexibility (sit and reach test), and self-reported physical activity bimonthly across three phases. Phase 1 included baseline monitoring (8 months); Phase 2 included the CBE Intervention (6 months): participants were asked to exercise (aerobic, strength, balance and flexibility training) for 90 minutes, 3 times/week, with weekly supervised coaching at a community-based fitness centre; and Phase 3 included follow-up (8 months) where participants were expected to continue with thrice weekly exercise independently. We used segmented regression (adjusted for baseline age and sex) to assess the change in trend (slope) among phases. Our main estimates of effect were the estimated change in slope, relative to baseline values, over the 6 month CBE intervention.

RESULTS

Of the 108 participants who initiated Phase 1, 80 (74%) started and 67/80 (84%) completed the intervention and 52/67 (77%) completed the study. Most participants were males (87%), with median age of 51 years (interquartile range (IQR): 45, 59). Participants reported a median of 4 concurrent health conditions in addition to HIV (IQR: 2,7). Participants attended a median of 18/25 (72%) weekly supervised sessions. Change in V̇O2peak attributed to the six-month Phase 2 CBE intervention was 0.56 ml/kg/min (95% Confidence Interval (CI): -1.27, 2.39). Significant effects of the intervention were observed for systolic blood pressure (-5.18 mmHg; 95% CI: -9.66, -0.71), push-ups (2.30 additional push-ups; 95% CI: 0.69, 3.91), curl ups (2.89 additional curl ups; 95% CI: 0.61, 5.17), and sit and reach test (1.74 cm; 95% CI: 0.21, 3.28). More participants engaged in self-reported strength (p<0.001) and flexibility (p = 0.02) physical activity at the end of intervention. During Phase 3 follow-up, there was a significant reduction in trend of benefits observed during the intervention phase for systolic blood pressure (1.52 mmHg/month; 95% CI: 0.67, 2.37) and sit and reach test (-0.42 cm/month; 95% CI: -0.68, -0.16).

CONCLUSION

Adults living with HIV who engaged in this six-month CBE intervention demonstrated inconclusive results in relation to V̇O2peak, and potential improvements in other outcomes of cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility and self-reported physical activity. Future research should consider features tailored to promote uptake and sustained engagement in independent exercise among adults living with HIV.

CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT02794415. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT02794415.

Experiences of People Living With HIV in Community Based Exercise: A Qualitative Longitudinal Study

This qualitative longitudinal study examined the experiences of people living with HIV who engaged in a structured community-based exercise (CBE) program under the supervision of a fitness coach. Twenty people living with HIV were invited to participate in 3 semi-structured interviews over time. Participants engaged in exercise 3 times per week for 6 months with one weekly session supervised by a coach. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and underwent longitudinal thematic analyses. Eleven participants were included representing a total of 30 interviews. Participants valued their experiences with the CBE program, particularly the motivation provided by the coach. Concerns about the environment, stigma and episodic health challenges affected their overall experience. To foster independence and promote self-management, health providers should consider these findings when encouraging CBE with people living with HIV. It is important to understand their goals and offer a variety of exercise options to meet their needs.

Effects of a Combined Exercise Training Program on Health Indicators and Quality of Life of People Living with HIV: A Randomized Clinical Trial

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 16 weeks of combined exercise training (CET) on muscle strength, body composition, depression, anxiety and quality of life of people living with HIV (PLHIV). Twenty-three participants completed the study, 14 in trained group (TG) and 9 in control group (CG). TG consisted of resistance and aerobic training three times a week, while the CG was exposed to recreational activities twice a week. CET promoted increased muscle strength (25% in overall strength) and aerobic capacity (+ 20% in training speed and + 23% in VO₂ during aerobic training; p < 0.05). In addition, TG had better quality of life and reduced depression rates (from 7 subjects with mild, moderate or severe depression to 1 post-training). In conclusion, this pilot data demonstrated that 16 weeks of CET increased muscle strength, and improved depression and quality of life indexes in a small sample of PLHIV.

The effectiveness of a community-based exercise program on depression symptoms among people living with HIV

HIV is a worldwide public health issue affecting millions of individuals, and people living with HIV (PLWH) are often affected by depression. Nonetheless, exercise can prevent and treat depression among PLWH. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of exercise on depression symptoms in PLWH. Using a prospective single-arm trial, a semi-supervised community-based exercise intervention was offered 3 times/week for 12 weeks to PLWH (n = 52; age: 49 ± 6 years; HIV diagnosis: 19 ± 15 years). Participants were divided into compliant (≥1 exercise session/week) and non-compliant (<1 exercise session/week) groups according to their attendance in the intervention. Depression symptoms were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the change in BDI from baseline to post-intervention was assessed with an analysis of covariance, adjusted for demographics. The post-intervention BDI score was significantly lower (p = 0.027) for the compliant group compared to the non-compliant group, and the rate of improvement from moderate/severe symptoms of depression to minimal symptoms of depression was four times greater in the compliant group. In conclusion, a community-based exercise program may be effective in reducing depression symptoms among PLWH.

A qualitative focus group study of perceived barriers and benefits to exercise by self-described exercise status among older adults living with HIV

OBJECTIVES

Although exercise interventions have been shown to improve health outcomes among older people with HIV (PLWH), this population remains highly sedentary. The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in perceived barriers and benefits of exercise among older PLWH by self-identified exercise status.

DESIGN

Five focus groups were formed among PLWH: two groups of exercising men, two groups of non-exercising men and one group of women (mixed exercisers and non-exercisers). Themes were analysed in relation to the social-ecological model, utilising the constant comparative approach.

SETTING

Patients were recruited from an academic medical centre, HIV clinic and community locations.

PARTICIPANTS

PLWH aged 50 or older, diagnosed with HIV for at least 2 years, with no other health conditions that would preclude exercise.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Determine facilitators, barriers and the ideal environment for exercise or physical activity and determine whether these differ between older PLWH who self-identify as exercisers or non-exercisers.

RESULTS

Among 25 men (11 exercisers and 14 non-exercisers) and four women (three non-exercisers and one exerciser), non-exercisers mentioned fewer benefits of exercise (n=46) than exercisers (n=75). Exercisers emphasised positive reinforcement, positive mood change and increased energy as benefits of exercise; interpersonal benefits of exercise were also discussed twice as often by exercisers than by non-exercisers. Non-exercisers emphasised barriers to exercise including lack of motivation, lack of self-efficacy and a negative perception of gym culture. Non-exercisers identified the need for age-appropriate activities as a feature of an ideal exercise environment. Both groups identified time, cost and health-related challenges as barriers to exercise.

CONCLUSIONS

Unique exercise barriers and benefits by self-identified exercise status provide important insights into the design of future interventions to initiate and maintain exercise.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02404792; Results.

Exercise training reduces oxidative stress in people living with HIV/AIDS: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Exercise training has been shown to be an effective strategy to balance oxidative stress status; however, this is underexplored in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of exercise training on oxidative stress in PLWHA receiving antiretroviral therapy.

METHODS

Patients performed 24 sessions (3 times per week, 8 weeks) of either aerobic (AT), resistance (RT), or concurrent training (CT). Glutathione disulphide to glutathione ratio (GSSG/GSH) in circulating erythrocytes and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) in plasma samples were assessed as oxidative stress markers. Eight PLWAH completed the training protocol (AT =3, RT =3, CT =2). The GSSG/GSH and TBARS values were logarithmically transformed to approximate a normal distribution. A paired t-test was used to determine the differences between baseline and post-training values.

RESULTS

Data-pooled analysis showed a decrease in GSSG/GSH and TBARS after the training period: log GSSG/GSH= -1.26 ± 0.57 versus -1.54 ± 0.65, p = .01 and log TBARS =0.73 ± 0.35 versus 0.43 ± 0.21, p = .01. This was paralleled by a rise in peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak = 29.14 ± 5.34 versus 32.48 ± 5.75 ml kg^-1 min^-1, p = .04). All the subjects who performed resistance exercises showed an average gain of 37 ± 8% in muscle strength with no difference between performing single or multiple sets in terms of muscle strength gain. The results reinforce the clinical importance of exercise as a rehabilitation intervention for PLWHA and emphasizes the safety of exercise at the physiological level with the potential to mediate health outcomes.

Management of Reduced Bone Mineral Density in HIV: Pharmacological Challenges and the Role of Exercise

Low bone mineral density is becoming more common among people living with HIV following the use of current antiretroviral therapy drugs such as tenofovir. Although pharmacological therapies used to treat low bone mineral density are associated with adverse effects and may increase the pill burden in people living with HIV who are already burdened by antiretroviral therapy drugs, non-pharmacological strategies to prevent and treat reduced bone mineral density resulting from antiretroviral therapy drugs in people living with HIV have not been fully explored. Despite evidence that exercise is effective in increasing bone mineral density, effects of exercise on low bone mineral density resulting from antiretroviral therapy drugs in HIV infected individuals are still unknown. This review highlights gaps in the strategies used to manage reduced bone mineral density resulting from antiretroviral therapy drugs and focuses on exercise as an alternative or adjunctive strategy.

Using the Theoretical Domains Framework to identify barriers and facilitators to exercise among older adults living with HIV

People with HIV are living longer. However, co-morbidities are often more prevalent and severe than in the general population and have greater impacts on health status. Although compelling evidence exists about the health benefits of exercise in the HIV literature, many people living with HIV tend to be physically inactive. The purpose of this study was to use the Theoretical Domains Framework to investigate the barriers and facilitators to participation in exercise of older people living with HIV. This qualitative study involved in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 12 adults aged 45 years and older recruited from HIV organizations and health centres. Data were analyzed thematically using the Theoretical Domains Framework, and two investigators independently coded transcripts. Six prominent domains were identified from the interviews: Social influences, environmental context and resources, reinforcement, intentions, social and professional role, and knowledge. Themes emerging from the interviews fit into all 14 domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework, and 67% of themes fit into the six most prominent domains. The participants had a working knowledge of exercise and its health benefits but were unfamiliar with specific exercise parameters. The majority identified environmental or resource constraints as salient barriers for participation in exercise programmes. Co-morbidities, injuries, and the side effects of HIV disease and medication were also acknowledged as barriers. Stigma and discrimination from friends, family, people within the LGBTQ community, and health care providers were commonly discussed. Participants spoke of the importance of social support to facilitate participation in exercise programmes. Other facilitators included using technology and incorporating exercise into day-to-day activities. People aging with HIV experience many barriers to exercise. Those designing exercise interventions for people aging with HIV should incorporate strategies to address these obstacles.

Evaluating a community-based exercise intervention with adults living with HIV: protocol for an interrupted time series study

INTRODUCTION

Our aim was to evaluate a community-based exercise (CBE) intervention with the goal of reducing disability and enhancing health for community-dwelling people living with HIV (PLWH).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will use a mixed-methods implementation science study design, including a prospective longitudinal interrupted time series study, to evaluate a CBE intervention with PLWH in Toronto, Canada. We will recruit PLWH who consider themselves medically stable and safe to participate in exercise. In the baseline phase (0-8 months), participants will be monitored bimonthly. In the intervention phase (8-14 months), participants will take part in a 24-week CBE intervention that includes aerobic, resistance, balance and flexibility exercise at the YMCA 3 times per week, with weekly supervision by a fitness instructor, and monthly educational sessions. In the follow-up phase (14-22 months), participants will be encouraged to continue to engage in unsupervised exercise 3 times per week. Quantitative assessment: We will assess cardiopulmonary fitness, strength, weight, body composition and flexibility outcomes followed by the administration of self-reported questionnaires to assess disability and contextual factor outcomes (coping, mastery, stigma, social support) bimonthly. We will use time series regression analysis to determine the level and trend of outcomes across each phase in relation to the intervention. Qualitative assessment: We will conduct a series of face-to-face interviews with a subsample of participants and recreation providers at initiation, midpoint and completion of the 24-week CBE intervention. We will explore experiences and anticipated benefits with exercise, perceived impact of CBE for PLWH and the strengths and challenges of implementing a CBE intervention. Interviews will be audio recorded and analysed thematically.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Protocol approved by the University of Toronto HIV/AIDS Research Ethics Board. Knowledge translation will occur with stakeholders in the form of presentations and publications in open access peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02794415; Pre-results.

Obesity in patients with HIV infection: epidemiology, consequences and treatment options

Even though wasting used to characterize patients with HIV infection prior to the antiretroviral therapy (ART) era, obesity is becoming increasingly prevalent in this population. Areas covered: In the present review, we discuss the epidemiology, consequences and treatment options for obesity in patients with HIV infection. Expert commentary: Obesity exerts a multitude of detrimental cardiometabolic effects and appears to contribute to the increasing cardiovascular mortality of this population. However, there are very limited data on the optimal management of obesity in patients with HIV infection. Given the potential for interactions between antiobesity agents and ART that might compromise viral control, lifestyle changes should represent the cornerstone for the prevention and management of obesity in HIV infection.

Evaluation of a physiotherapy-led group rehabilitation intervention for adults living with HIV: referrals, adherence and outcomes

HIV is characterised by episodes of disability. We report a novel, hospital outpatient rehabilitation intervention, combining physiotherapy-led group exercise and education for people living with HIV (PLWH). This observational study evaluated routine delivery of the 10-week intervention in terms of referral patterns, rehabilitation goals, intervention adherence and change in patient outcomes. Measurements at baseline & 10 weeks included locomotor performance (6 minute walk test; 6MWT), flexibility, upper and lower limb strength and health related quality of life (HRQOL). Adherence was defined as attending ≥8/20 sessions, with reasons for non-adherence identified in retrospective telephone interviews. Goal Attainment Scale measured progression to individual goals. Total 92 referrals were mostly for musculoskeletal (25.0%), oncological (19.6%) or cardio-metabolic (18.5%) reasons, and mostly male (81.5%), Caucasian (70.7%) and older (mean 51.5 years). Common themed rehabilitation goals included improving body image, participation, mobility, health/fitness and function. Adherence was achieved by 42 (46%) patients, with open access utilised by 34 patients, returning (n = 19) or restarting when non-adherent (n = 15). Post-intervention measurements collected for 37 (40%) patients demonstrated improvements in 6MWT distance (p < .001), flexibility (p < .001), strength in triceps (p < .001), biceps (p < .001), Lattisimus Dorsi (p < .001), shoulder-press (p < .001), chest-press (p < 0.001), and leg-press (p < 0.001). HRQOL improved in total score (p < .001), physical (p < .001), emotional (p < .001) and functional (p = .065) subscales. Extent of goal achievement demonstrated 83% of goals was "expected" (n = 57), "somewhat more" (n = 31) or "much more" (n = 14). Reasons for non-adherence from 21 telephone interviews identified physical health challenges, individual factors and time or location issues. This novel rehabilitation approach for PLWH improved function, HRQOL and goal attainment among those completing the intervention. Sub-optimal adherence likely relates to episodic disability.

Social-Ecological, Motivational and Volitional Factors for Initiating and Maintaining Physical Activity in the Context of HIV

Sport and exercise can have several health benefits for people living with HIV. These benefits can be achieved through different types of physical activity, adapting to disease progression, motivation and social-ecological options. However, physical activity levels and adherence to exercise are generally low in people living with HIV. At the same time, high drop-out rates in intervention studies are prevalent; even though they often entail more favourable conditions than interventions in the natural settings. Thus, in the framework of an intervention study, the present study aims to explore social-ecological, motivational and volitional correlates of South African women living with HIV with regard to physical activity and participation in a sport and exercise health promotion programme. The qualitative data was produced in the framework of a non-randomised pre-post intervention study that evaluated structure, processes and outcomes of a 10-week sport and exercise programme. All 25 participants of the programme were included in this analysis, independent of compliance. Data was produced through questionnaires, participatory group discussions, body image pictures, research diaries and individual semi-structured interviews. All participants lived in a low socioeconomic, disadvantaged setting. Hence, the psychological correlates are contextualised and social-ecological influences on perception and behaviour are discussed. The results show the importance of considering social-cultural and environmental influences on individual motives, perceptions and expectancies, the fear of disclosure and stigmatisation, sport and exercise-specific group dynamics and self-supporting processes. Opportunities and strategies to augment physical activity and participation in sport and exercise programmes in the context of HIV are discussed.

Advancing research and practice in HIV and rehabilitation: a framework of research priorities in HIV, disability and rehabilitation

BACKGROUND

HIV increasingly is experienced as a complex chronic illness where individuals are living longer with a range of physical, cognitive, mental and social health-related challenges associated with HIV, comorbidities and aging, a concept that may be termed 'disability'. Rehabilitation such as physical therapy and occupational therapy can help address disability and has the potential to improve quality of life in people living with HIV. Hence, the role for rehabilitation in the context of HIV, aging and comorbidities is emerging. Our aim was to establish a framework of research priorities in HIV, disability and rehabilitation.

METHODS

We convened people living with HIV, clinicians, researchers, service providers, representatives from community-based organizations and policy and funding stakeholders to participate in the first International Forum on HIV and Rehabilitation Research. We conducted a multi-stakeholder consultation to identify current and emerging issues in HIV, disability and rehabilitation. Data were collated and analyzed using content analytical techniques.

RESULTS

Ninety-two participants attended the Forum from Canada, United Kingdom (UK), Ireland and the United States. Situated within three overarching themes (episodic health and disability across the life course; rehabilitation; and methodological advances), the Framework of Research Priorities in HIV, Disability and Rehabilitation includes six research priorities: 1) episodic health and disability; 2) aging with HIV across the life course; 3) concurrent health conditions; 4) access to rehabilitation and models of rehabilitation service provision; 5) effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions; and 6) enhancing outcome measurement in HIV and rehabilitation research. The Framework includes methodological considerations and environmental and personal contextual factors (or lenses) through which to approach research in the field. Knowledge translation should be implemented throughout the development and application of research knowledge to inform HIV clinical practice, programming and policy.

CONCLUSIONS

These priorities highlight the emerging priorities of living long-term with HIV and outline a plan for HIV and rehabilitation research in resource-rich countries such as the UK and Canada.

A systematic review of effects of concurrent strength and endurance training on the health-related quality of life and cardiopulmonary status in patients with HIV/AIDS

PURPOSE

To determine the effects of concurrent strength and endurance training (concurrent training) on the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) and cardiopulmonary status among HIV-infected patients, using a systematic search strategy of randomized, controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS

A systematic review was performed by two independent reviewers using Cochrane Collaboration protocol. The sources used in this review were Cochrane Library, EMBASE, LILACS, MEDLINE, PEDro and Web of Science from 1950 to August 2012. The PEDro score was used to evaluate methodological quality.

RESULT

Individual studies suggested that concurrent training contributed to improved HRQOL and cardiovascular status. Concurrent training appears to be safe and may be beneficial for medically stable adults living with HIV. The rates of nonadherence were of 16%.

CONCLUSION

Concurrent training improves the HRQOL and cardiopulmonary status. It may be an important intervention in the care and treatment of adults living with HIV. Further research is needed to determine the minimal and optimal duration, frequency, and intensity of exercise needed to produce beneficial changes in the HIV-infected population subgroups.

Interventions to address chronic disease and HIV: strategies to promote exercise and nutrition among HIV-infected individuals

Food insecurity, micronutrient deficits, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and bone disorders complicate the treatment of HIV infection. Nutrition and exercise interventions can be effective in ameliorating these symptoms that are associated with HIV and antiretroviral therapy (ART). In this literature review, we examine the most recent nutrition and exercise interventions for HIV-infected patients. Macronutrient supplementation can be useful in treating malnutrition and wasting. Multivitamin (vitamin B complex, vitamin C, and vitamin E) supplements and vitamin D may improve quality of life and decrease morbidity and mortality. Nutritional counseling and exercise interventions are effective for treating obesity, fat redistribution, and metabolic abnormalities. Physical activity interventions improve body composition, strength, and fitness in HIV-infected individuals. Taken collectively, the evidence suggests that a proactive approach to nutrition and physical activity guidance and interventions can improve outcomes and help abrogate the adverse metabolic, cardiovascular, and psychological consequences of HIV and its treatments.

Understanding how adherence goals promote adherence behaviours: a repeated measure observational study with HIV seropositive patients

BACKGROUND

The extent to which patients follow treatments as prescribed is pivotal to treatment success. An exceptionally high level (> 95%) of HIV medication adherence is required to suppress viral replication and protect the immune system and a similarly high level (> 80%) of adherence has also been suggested in order to benefit from prescribed exercise programmes. However, in clinical practice, adherence to both often falls below the desirable level. This project aims to investigate a wide range of psychological and personality factors that may lead to adherence/non-adherence to medical treatment and exercise programmes.

METHODS

HIV positive patients who are referred to the physiotherapist-led 10-week exercise programme as part of the standard care are continuously recruited. Data on social cognitive variables (attitude, intention, subjective norms, self-efficacy, and outcome beliefs) about the goal and specific behaviours, selected personality factors, perceived quality of life, physical activity, self-reported adherence and physical assessment are collected at baseline, at the end of the exercise programme and again 3 months later. The project incorporates objective measures of both exercise (attendance log and improvement in physical measures such as improved fitness level, weight loss, improved circumferential anthropometric measures) and medication adherence (verified by non-invasive hair analysis).

DISCUSSION

The novelty of this project comes from two key aspects, complemented with objective information on exercise and medication adherence. The project assesses beliefs about both the underlying goal such as following prescribed treatment; and about the specific behaviours such as undertaking the exercise or taking the medication, using both implicit and explicit assessments of patients' beliefs and attitudes. We predict that i) the way people think about the underlying goal of their treatments explains medication and exercise behaviours over and above the effects of the behaviour-specific thinking and ii) the relationship between adherence to exercise and to medical treatment is stronger among those with more favourable views about the goal. Results from this study should identify the key contributing factors to inform subsequent adherence research and afford a more streamlined assessment matrix. The project also aims to inform patient care practices. UK CLINICAL RESEARCH NETWORK REGISTRATION NUMBER: UKCRN 7842.