Knowledge, Attitude, Behavior, and Socioeconomic Conditions of People Living with HIV in Indonesia During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of people living with HIV (PLWH) during the COVID-19 pandemic and the pandemic’s impact on their socioeconomic conditions, antiretroviral adherence, and worries. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in May–August 2020 at the Integrated HIV Center of Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Indonesia. The data were collected using an online questionnaire and an offline paper-based questionnaire. Results: A total of 545 subjects participated in this study, 72.8% (397) of which were male. Most subjects were middle-aged (36–55 years old) (66.5%). Many subjects reported to have experienced reduced incomes (49.2%) or losses of income (22.4%), while 15.6% reported losing their job during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most subjects (97%) wished to continue treatment despite the many obstacles, and the subjects’ knowledge about COVID-19 and its prevention was considerably good. More than 70% of subjects reported that they have been implementing the general precautions of the COVID-19 pandemic: maintaining distance, wearing a mask, washing hands, and avoiding crowds. Conclusion: This study provides an overview of what PLWH are experiencing, which will allow for policy-making that can help them continue their treatment with consideration of the possibility of having to live a “new normal” future.