Tuberculosis/HIV coinfection focused on care and quality of life

Abstract

Objective: To describe and analyze the perceptions of people who experience tuberculosis/human immunodeficiency virus coinfection in relation to quality of life and health care. Methods: An exploratory, descriptive, qualitative study conducted with ten people experiencing coinfection who received care at a reference center in the city of São Paulo. A semi-structured questionnaire composed of closed questions and guiding questions was used for data collection. The analysis of testimonies was based on the Theory of Social Determination of the Health-Disease Process. Results: Participants mentioned that precarious conditions of life interfered in the quality of life and reported satisfaction with the care provided and the health care network. Experiencing tuberculosis/human immunodeficiency virus coinfection caused suffering, social isolation and stigma, which can contribute to suicidal ideation and lower quality of life. In the perception of participants, health professionals contribute to maintain the quality of life by developing bonds and humanized care. Conclusion: Interventions aimed at reducing social inequalities that support the reduction of stigma and prejudice and increase humanized interaction in health services in order to meet users' health needs can exert positive impact on the perception of quality of life and health care of those experiencing tuberculosis/human immunodeficiency virus coinfection.