Prevalence of pain among adult patients living with HIV in Uyo, South-South, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: HIV infection is a major global public health issue. Pain is a common and debilitating symptom of HIV disease which is gravely underestimated and treated.

Patients And Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey conducted at the HIV Clinic of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, after obtaining approval from the Research Ethical Committee. Data was obtained using a Data Sheet and Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) questionnaire. Information obtained included demographic characteristics, duration of infection, clinical stage and treatment. The BPI asked patients to report if they experienced pain, pain score, treatment and interference with their quality of life.

Results: A total of 210 patients participated in the study, 60 males and 150 females, the prevalence of pain was 29.5%, and the average duration of pain was 4-9 months. The commonest site of pain was waist (39.3%), followed by headache (13.1%), neck (11.5%) and Knee (11.5%). Majority of the patients (53.4%) rated their average pain between 1 – 4 on the numerical rating scale. Most of the patients received over the counter analgesics (29.5%) while 27.9% did not take any medication at all. Majority of the patients with pain had mild interference with their quality of life.

Conclusion: The Prevalence of pain among adult HIV Patients is high and grossly undertreated. Training of health workers in pain management may improve the situation.