Abstract

HIV/AIDS remains a pressing global health concern, particularly impacting socio-economic
development in various African nations, Uganda included. Revealing one's HIV-positive
status to a family member or relative is crucial for adherence to effective antiretroviral
therapy, which significantly enhances the survival and well-being of those living with HIV.
To evaluate the hurdles faced by individuals with HIV at Kakomo HC IV in Kabale District
regarding disclosure and to curtail new infections in this community, a descriptive crosssectional
study was conducted. The study sampled individuals living with HIV at Kakomo
HC IV randomly, utilizing a pretested questionnaire as the data collection instrument. The
gathered data underwent coding, sorting, entry, and analysis through statistical software
(SPSS), presented via tables and charts. Findings revealed that only 40 (50.6%) were
adequately prepared before disclosing their status, while 30 (37.0%) neither prepared nor
disclosed to anyone. 61 (63.5%) received education on the importance of disclosure during
clinic visits, but 26 (46.4%) neither disclosed nor received such education. Barriers to
disclosure primarily stemmed from anxiety about blame, stigma, fear of losing a partner,
and violence among 18 (54.5%), 19 (52.8%), 30 (39.0%), and 2 (18.2%) individuals,
respectively. Despite 62 (43.4%) intending to disclose to someone, 88 (98.9%) faced barriers
to disclosing their status. Misconceptions in 51 (31.9%) communities and potential
discrimination by families in the same proportion highlighted the challenges.
Consequently, 123 (76.9%) still fear others spreading word of their HIV-positive status.
Understanding disclosure motivations is crucial, requiring tailored strategies for decisionmaking
based on the discloser's needs and their intended audience. The significance of
support, proximity, and relational dynamics between the discloser and the recipient
emphasizes the necessity for a secure environment during disclosure.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Antiretroviral therapy, HIV-positive, HIV status, Stigma.