Factors Influencing Physical Activity Engagement in Individuals Living With HIV in Nigeria

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> <bold>Introduction</bold>: Physical activity has been reported to be a useful non-pharmacological intervention for improving quality of life and reducing long-term problems associated with HIV infection and ART. Despite their known benefits, the data on the factors driving the uptake of physical activity among the HIV population in Nigeria are insufficient. Thus, since variations exist in healthcare, cultural and societal structures, caution must be used in drawing comparisons from other settings. To develop a contextually sensitive intervention programme, understanding the factors responsible for physical activity engagement among people living with HIV is vital. <bold>Objective</bold>: The study aimed to explore the barriers to and facilitators of physical activity participation among people living with HIV. <bold>Method</bold>: A qualitative research methodology was adopted to explore the barriers of and facilitators to physical activity participation among people living with HIV. A semi-structured interview guide was used to interview people living with HIV (PLWH) attending HIV testing and treatment centers in [location masked for blind review] from March to July 2022; a saturation point was reached after the 20th interview. All interviews were audio-recorded and were subjected to a deductive content analysis framework for data analysis. <bold>Results</bold>: Twenty (20) PLWH aged 19 to 54 years participated in this study. The majority perceived physical activity as beneficial to their health. Commonly reported barriers to physical activity in PLWH were lack of time, fatigue, an unsupportive environment, lack of funding, and other social commitments. The physical activity facilitators included perceived benefits, habits, influence by others, and the health benefits of illness prevention and pain relief. C<bold>onclusion</bold>: Our findings reveal that the key barriers to physical activity participation (lack of time, unsupportive environment, fatigue, and lack of funding) are modifiable. Addressing these factors is likely to facilitate physical activity participation. Thus, efforts to develop a physical activity intervention program for PLWH in Nigeria must consider environmental and interpersonal variables.