Health-Related Quality of Life Among Persons Living with HIV/AIDS in Jordan: An Exploratory Study

INTRODUCTION: Diagnosis of HIV/AIDS infection can have adverse effects on the individual and may affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Numerous studies have previously assessed the HRQoL of persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) globally, but not in Jordan. The aim of the current study is to examine HRQoL among PLWHA residing in Jordan and to evaluate the effect of socio-demographic and disease-related factors on HRQoL. METHODOLOGY: An exploratory approach employing a cross-sectional design was applied. The study applied a semi-structured face-to-face interview followed by administration of self-reported questionnaire using the World Health Organization’s Quality of Life HIV brief questionnaire (WHOQOL-HIV-BREF). RESULTS: Results showed that unemployment, low income, non-disclosure status, single status (separated, divorced or widowed), and having comorbidities were connected with poor HRQoL. CONCLUSION: PLWHA require more than just being provided with antiretroviral therapy to rebuild their lives.