Perceptions about the quality of life of people living with HIV

Abstract

Objective

to understand the meaning of quality of life attributed by people living with HIV.

Method

a qualitative approach study carried out with people living with HIV, in the Specialized Care Services in a large city in the interior of São Paulo. Data were processed by the IRaMuTeQ software and the analysis was based on the Discourse of the Collective Subject technique.

Results

after the analysis of the statements, four main classes emerged: Difficulties faced in the treatment; Stigma and lowering of self-esteem; Health as center of quality of life; and Living with expectations.

Conclusion

The meaning of quality of life was understood by people living with HIV through several factors that permeate life, and may suffer positive or negative influences. The positive aspects included healthy lifestyle habits, and the negative aspects were related to stigma, prejudice, and difficulty in adhering to treatment.

Keywords:
Quality of Life; HIV; Social Stigma; Qualitative Research