Experiências de adolescentes vivendo com HIV/AIDS: um estudo comparativo entre indivíduos com aquisição vertical ou horizontal doHIV atendidos na macrorregião de Barbacena, Minas Gerais.

Abstract

Objectives: To discriminate and discern behavioral aspects of children who were born with the HIV and that reached adolescence, of those who were contaminated in the puberty, highlighting similarities and differences in their routines, linked to social exclusion, sexuality and vision of the future, according to the type of transmission. Effects and impact of the diagnosis on the legal guardian regarding the HIV infection in their sons or daughters, and how it interferes on the bond between the two of them, were also evaluated. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, qualitative study carried out in the macro-region of Barbacena, MG. All adolescents of both sexes, 10-19 years old, infected with the HIV, that were on treatment in this region and one of their legal guardians (when possible) were included in this study. The technique used to obtain data was a semi-structured interview. They were recorded and fully transcribed. To process the data, superficial, deep and repeated readings of the interviews were made. The analysis was based on individual data and grouped data to identify subjects related to the studied phenomenon. Results and Final Thoughts: Six adolescents were interviewed, and also their legal guardians, when possible (3). The identified impasses were different for each group individually. The participants were splitted in vertical transmission, horizontal transmission and legal guardians groups. Although the peculiarities that each group revealed, themes like stigma, sexuality and future permeated all the groups. It was noted that individual vulnerability and the senses related to fear, prejudice and insecurity about the future, impact the daily actions of the youths. It was possible to design interventions that would contribute to the care of this population and that will be proposed in the centers of treatment located in the macro-region of Barbacena. The care for the adolescent health should be full, customized and done by a multidisciplinary team. The centers should educate young people, caregivers and professionals about the rights of children and adolescents living with the HIV. Debates about the stigma and discrimination should be made. Discussion Groups can be created for adolescents and parents, where group work should be encouraged, allowing the exchange of experience and the solution to common problems.