High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Ter Tiero Elias Dah; Désiré Lucien Dahourou; Kadari Cissé; Wendgoudi Michael Kaboré; Diane Somé; Désiré Nanema; Linda Audrey Koubi; Ismael Diallo; Samiratou Ouedraogo; Jocelyne Garé; Abdoulaye Hama Diallo; Smaïla Ouedraogo; Nicolas Meda

doi:doi:10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11

Research Article |

| Peer-Reviewed

High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Ter Tiero Elias Dah^*

, Désiré Lucien Dahourou

, Kadari Cissé

, Wendgoudi Michael Kaboré, Diane Somé, Désiré Nanema, Linda Audrey Koubi, Ismael Diallo, Samiratou Ouedraogo

, Jocelyne Garé

, Abdoulaye Hama Diallo

, Smaïla Ouedraogo

, Nicolas Meda

Published in Central African Journal of Public Health (Volume 11, Issue 5)

Received: 26 July 2025 Accepted: 28 August 2025 Published: 8 September 2025

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Abstract

Introduction: Anxiety and depression in people living with HIV (PLHIV) are associated with unfavourable HIV response. We assessed the prevalence and the determinants of anxiety and depression in PLHIV followed up in a community-based clinic (Centre Oasis) in Ouagadougou. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and October 2024 in PLHIV receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least 6 months. Demographic, psychosocial, medical, and behavioural information were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire. Anxiety and depression were both assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The determinants were identified using logistic regression models. Results: A total of 293 PLHIV (mean age 42 years, 60.7% females) were included. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was 21.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 16.2-26.3) and 20.5% (95% CI 15.6-25.8), respectively. Anxiety was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio aOR 7.72, 95% CI 1.42-42.0), food insecurity (aOR 11.45, 95% CI 3.27-40.1), exposure to violence (aOR 3.95, 95% CI 1.32-12.5) and detectable HIV viral load (aOR 4.17, 95%CI 1.17-10.3). Depression was associated with older age (aOR 6.68, 95% CI 1.47-30.32), food insecurity (aOR 9.75, 95% CI 3.09-30.77), lack of support (aOR 2.44, 95% CI 1.12-6.35), exposure to violence (aOR 4.22, 95% CI 1.47-12.1), and perceived discrimination (aOR 3.48, 95% CI 1.50-8.08). Conclusion: Anxiety and depression are common among PLHIV in Burkina Faso and are strongly associated with age, structural and psychosocial vulnerabilities. The integration of mental health screening and support services into routine HIV care, with particular attention to the vulnerable populations, is needed.

Published in	Central African Journal of Public Health (Volume 11, Issue 5)
DOI	10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11
Page(s)	231-240
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Anxiety, Depression, PLHIV, Prevalence, Burkina Faso

1. Introduction

Mental health disorders are increasingly recognized as critical comorbidities among people living with HIV (PLHIV), particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs)

[1, 2]

. Among these disorders, anxiety and depression are most frequently reported. Previous studies highlighted that these mental health conditions are more common in PLHIV than in the general population without HIV infection

[2-4]

. The prevalence of depressive symptoms in PLHIV ranged from 20% to 40% globally. These figures are similar to or higher for anxiety

[5, 6]

. These mental health conditions are not only a consequence of the psychosocial burden of HIV diagnosis and chronicity but are also closely intertwined with socioeconomic stressors, stigma, violence, and social exclusion

[4, 7, 8]

The impact of anxiety and depression on the clinical trajectory of HIV infection has been well-documented. Evidences indicate that they are associated with poorer adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), low rates of viral suppression, increased risk of disease progression, and poorer retention in care. Moreover, being infected with HIV also results in mental health issues, including anxiety and depression

[9-13]

. Despite these unfavourable outcomes, mental health remains largely neglected in HIV care programs, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where health systems are often overstretched, and mental health services are underdeveloped

[14-16]

. Moreover, previous studies documented low quality of life in PLHIV, particularly in the mental component

[17, 18]

In Burkina Faso where HIV prevalence is estimated at 0.7% in the general population, comprehensive care for PLHIV has been expanded in recent years. However, the integration of mental health screening and support into HIV services remains limited, especially in community-based care models that are crucial to differentiated service delivery

[19-21]

. In this context, there is a need to generate specific evidence on the burden and determinants of anxiety and depression among PLHIV for informing and designing suitable interventions. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression and the determinants in PLHIV care at a community-based medical clinic in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

2. Methods

2.1. Study Design and Setting

We conducted a cross-sectional study between April and October 2024 at the Centre Oasis, a community-based clinic located in Ouagadougou. This clinic operates under the Association African Solidarité (AAS) and is a nationally recognized community-led HIV care centre that provides ART, routine medical care, and psychosocial support. Additional services including HIV testing and prevention are also offered to HIV-negative individuals. The clinic's integrated patient-centered approach makes it a relevant and appropriate setting for studying psychosocial health among PLHIV.

2.2. Study Population and Sampling

Eligible participants to the study were adults PLHIV (i.e., aged 18 years or older), on ART for at least six months, attending the clinic for their routine HIV visit, and consenting to participate in the study.

A systematic random sampling method was used to select the study participants. Based on the average number of daily medical outpatient visits (approximately 20 PLHIV per day), we aimed to include five PLHIV per day. For each day, the sampling interval (number of persons between two inclusions) was calculated by dividing the number of individuals scheduled for consultation by the number of participants to be included. The first participant was randomly selected from the daily consultation list and offered the opportunity to participate in the study. The next participant was then identified by adding the sampling interval to the position of the previously included individual. This process was repeated until the target number of participants for the day was reached. When an identified participant refused to participate, the next eligible person on the list was invited to take part in the study.

A minimum sample size was calculated using the formula for a cross-sectional study

[22]

. We assumed a previously documented depression proportion of 32% in PLHIV in Sub-Saharan Africa and a first-type error risk (α) of 5%. Accounting for a potential 5% refusal rate, the required sample size was 291 individuals.

2.3. Data Collection and Study Variables

Data were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire administered by trained research assistants in French or local languages if needed. The research assistants provided clarification when needed to ensure accurate self-completion.

Symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), a validated instrument widely used in clinical and community settings. The HADS consists of 14 items, divided into two subscales: 7 items assessing anxiety (HADS-A) and 7 items assessing depression (HADS-D). Each item is scored on a 4-point Likert scale ranging from 0 to 3, with total subscale scores ranging from 0 to 21. For both the anxiety and depression subscales, scores were interpreted as follows:

0-7: no symptoms (normal)

8-10: borderline (possible case)

11-21: definite case (presence of clinically significant symptoms)

The explanatory variables were sociodemographic (age, gender, marital status, place of birth, occupation, monthly income), medical (body mass index -BMI-, hypertension, diabetes, CD4 cell count, HIV viral load), behavioural (alcohol, smoking tobacco, physical activity) and related to support (from family and close persons) and discrimination.

2.4. Statistical Analysis

Descriptive statistics were first computed to describe the characteristics of the study participants. Quantitative variables were presented as means and standard deviations. Categorical variables were expressed as absolute frequencies (counts) and relative frequencies (percentages). Second, the prevalence of anxiety and depression was described using the predefined HADS thresholds. The 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using the exact binomial method. Two separate binary logistic regression models were performed to identify the determinants of anxiety (i.e., HADS-A score ≥11) and depression (i.e., HADS-D score ≥11). Variables with a p-value ≤0.20 in univariable analysis were included in the initial multivariable model. A manual backward elimination procedure based on the Wald test was used to determine the final models. Statistical significance was set at a p-value ≤0.05. The goodness-of-fit of the final models was assessed using the Hosmer and Lemeshow test.

All analyses were conducted using STATA software (version 16; StataCorp LLC., College Station, TX., USA).

2.5. Ethical Considerations

The study protocol and the study collection tool were approved by the national ethics committee of Burkina Faso (CERS N°. 2024-04-120). All participants provided written informed consent. Illiterate participants benefited from having the study information note translated into their maternal tongue by a person of their choice. Anonymity as well as confidentiality were respected during all the study steps (data collection, analysis, and diffusion).

3. Results

3.1. Characteristics of the Study Participants

A total of 293 PLHIV, including 178 (60.7%) females, participated in the study. Their mean age was 42 years (standard deviation [SD]: 14 years). One hundred and thirty-one participants (44.7%) were married or in a couple, and 260 (88.7%) were living in urban and semi-urban areas. Fifty participants (17.1%) had hypertension, 32 (11.0%) had diabetes. Half of the participants (n=159, 54.2%) had support from their family or friends, 59 (20.1%) had already been victims of violence. Two hundred and fifty-five participants (87.0%) virally suppressed (i.e., ˂ 500 copies/ml). Table 1 describes the characteristics of the participants.

Table 1. Characteristics of the 293 PLHIV participating in the study, Ouagadougou, 2024.

	Frequency	Percentage
Age (years)ª	42	14
18 - 25	42	14.3%
25 - 40	78	26.7%
≥ 40	173	59.0%
Gender
Male	115	39.3%
Female	178	60.7%
Marital status
Married or in union	131	44.7%

	Frequency	Percentage
Single	90	30.7%
Divorced	28	9.6%
Widowed	44	15.0%
Residence
Rural	33	11.2%
Urban	226	77.1%
Semi-urban	34	11.6%
Education level
Less than secondary school	154	52.5%
Secondary school	86	29.3%
University	53	18.1%
Monthly income ($ US)
≤ 83	193	65.8%
83 - 167	56	19.1%
> 167	44	15.0%
Food security
Yes	163	55.6%
No	130	44.3%
BMI (Kg/m²)ª	22	2.8
˂ 18.5	16	5.4%
18.5-25	234	79.8%
˃ 25	43	14.7%
Alcohol consumption
Yes	119	40.6%
No	174	59.1%
Smoking
Yes	48	16.3%
No	245	83.6%
Benefited from support
Yes	159	54.2%
No	134	47.7%
Violence
Yes	59	20.1%
No	234	79.9%

	n or means	% standard deviation
Discrimination
Yes	120	40.9%
No	173	59.1%
HIV viral load (log10 copies/ml)ª	2.34	2.92
≥ 500	38	12.9%
˂ 500	255	87.0%
Diabetes
No	246	83.9%
Yes	32	11.0%
Do not know	15	5.1%
Hypertension
No	236	80.5%
Yes	50	17.1%
Do not know	7	2.4%

ª Mean, standard deviation

3.2. Prevalence and Determinants of Anxiety

Sixty-three participants had clinically significant symptoms of anxiety, giving a prevalence of 21.5% (95% confidence interval [95%CI] 16.2-26.3); 82 (28.0%) participants were borderline (possible cases of anxiety), and 148 (50.5%) had no symptoms.

In multivariate analysis, the risk of anxiety was higher in participants aged 40 years or plus (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 7.72. 95% CI 1.42-42.0), in those who were in food insecurity (aOR 11.45. 95% CI 3.27-40.1), in those victims of violence (aOR 3.95. 95% CI 1.32-12.5), and in those who had detectable HIV load (aOR 4.17. 95%CI 1.17-10.3) - table 2.

Table 2. Determinants of anxiety in PLHIV in Burkina Faso, 2024 (logistic regression models).

	Anxiety		Univariate analysis			Multivariate analysis
	n	%	OR	95%CI	p-value	aOR	95%CI	p-value
Age (years)
18 - 25	10	15.9	1			1
25 - 40	7	11.1	0.31	0.11- 0.90	0.032	1.48	0.28 - 7.72	0.642
≥ 40	46	73.0	1.15	0.52 - 2.54	0.713	7.72	1.42 - 42.05	0.018
Gender
Male	11	17.5	1
Female	52	82.5	3.90	1.93 - 7.86	˂0.001
Marital status
In union	12	19.1	1
Single	22	34.9	3.18	1.48 - 6.85	0.003
Divorced	15	23.8	11.34	4.44 - 29.4	˂0.001
Widowed	14	22.2	4.12	1.71 - 9.92	0.002
Residence
Urban	37	58.7	1
Rural	13	20.6	3.32	1.51 - 7.25	0.003
Semi-urban	13	20.6	3.16	1.45 - 6.87	0.004
Monthly income
≤ 83	4	6.35	1
83-167	6	9.52	1.2	0.31 - 4.54	0.788
> 167	53	84.1	3.78	1.29 - 11.1	0.015
Food security
Yes	8	12.7	1			1
No	55	87.3	14.2	6.53 - 31.34	˂0.001	11.45	3.27 - 40. 1	˂0.001
BMI (Kg/m²)
˂ 18.5	46	73.0	1
18.5-25	7	11.1	0.79	0.33 - 1.89	0.605
˃ 25	10	15.9	6.81	2.35 - 19.7	<0.001
HIV viral load
˂ 500	42	66.7	1			1
≥ 500	21	33.3	6.26	3.14 - 12.6	<0.001	4.17	1.75 - 10.35	0.002
Support
Yes	15	23.8	1
No	48	76.2	5.35	2.83 - 10.12	<0.001
Violence
No	25	39.7	1			1
Yes	38	60.3	11.92	6.23 - 22.8	<0.001	3.95	1.30 - 12.14	0.015
Discrimination
Yes	28	44.4	1
No	35	55.6	2.13	1.21 - 3.74	0.009

aOR, adjusted odds ratio; BMI, Body mass index; CI, confidence interval; OR, adjusted odds ratio.

3.3. Prevalence and Determinants of Depression

Sixty participants had clinically significant symptoms of depression, giving a prevalence of 20.5% (95% CI 15.6-25.8); 90 (30.7%) participants were borderline (possible cases of depression), and 143 (48.8%) had no symptoms.

In multivariate analysis, the risk of depression was higher in participants aged 40 years or older (aOR 6.68, 95% CI 1.47-30.32), in those who had food insecurity (aOR 9.75, 95% CI 3.09-30.77), in those who did not benefit from support (aOR 2.44, 95% CI 1.12-6.35), in those victims of violence (aOR 4.22, 95% CI 1.47-12.1), and discrimination (aOR 3.48, 95% CI 1.50-8.08), Table 3.

Table 3. Determinants of depression in PLHIV in Burkina Faso (logistic regression models).

	Depression		Univariate analysis			Multivariate analysis
	n	%	OR	95%CI	p-value	aOR	95%CI	p-value
Age (years)
18 - 25	8	13.3	1			1
25 - 40	9	15.0	1.29	1.11 – 4.59	0.021	3.99	0.85 – 8.70	0.079
≥ 40	43	71.7	1.84	0.79 – 4.55	0.115	6.68	1.42 – 30.32	0.014
Gender
Male	16	26.676	1
Female	44	73.33	2.03	1.93 – 7.86	0.027
Marital status
Married or in a free union	17	28.33	1
Single	18	30.0	1.66	0.48 – 3.43	0.170
Divorced	10	16.67	3.69	1.46 – 9.32	0.006
Widow	15	25.02	3.43	1.53 – 7.69	0.003
Residence
Urban	41	68.3	1
Rural	7	11.67	0.94	0.26 – 3.29	0.918
Semi-urban	12	20.6	2.65	0.99 - 7.11	0.052
Monthly income
≤ 83	5	8.33	1
83-167	6	10.0	0.94	0.26 - 3.29	0.918
> 167	49	81.67	2.65	0.99 - 7.11	0.052
Food security
Yes	12	20.0	1			1
No	48	80.0	7.36	3.37 - 14.6	<0.001	9.75	3.09 - 30. 77	<0.001
BMI (Kg/m²)
˂ 18.5	47	78.33	1
18.5-25	5	8.33	0.52	0.19 - 1.40	0.198
˃ 25	8	13.33	3.97	1.41 - 11.1	0.009
HIV viral load
˂ 500	40	66.67	1
≥ 500	20	33.33	5.97	2.9 - 12.27	<0.001
Support
Yes	21	35.0	1			1
No	39	65.0	2.69	1.49 - 4.87	0.001	2.44	1.12 - 6.35	0.037
Violence
No	27	45.0	1			1
Yes	33	55.0	7.96	4.22 - 15.0	<0.001	4.22	1.47 - 12.11	0.007
Discrimination
No	19	31.67	1			1
Yes	41	68.33	4.20	2.29 - 7.72	<0.001	3.48	1.50 - 8.08	0.004

aOR, adjusted odds ratio; BMI, Body mass index; CI, confidence interval; OR, adjusted odds ratio.

4. Discussion

This study assessed the prevalence and associated factors of anxiety and depression among PLHIV receiving ART in a community-based clinic in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The findings indicate that clinically significant symptoms of anxiety and depression are common in this population, affecting approximately one in five participants, with various demographic, psychosocial, and clinical determinants identified.

Prevalence of anxiety and depression among PLHIV

The observed prevalence of anxiety (21.5%) and depression (20.5%) aligns with estimates reported in similar settings across sub-Saharan Africa. For instance, a cross-sectional study in Ghana reported a prevalence of anxiety of 40.8% and depression of 28.6% among PLHIV receiving ART. In South Africa, the prevalence of anxiety and depression among PLHIV enrolled in a public sector ART programme was 30.6% and 25.4%, respectively

[3, 23]

. Moreover, a meta-analysis involving African studies estimated pooled prevalence rates of 26% for anxiety and 32% for depression in PLHIV². These rates are markedly higher than those observed in the general population, underlining the psychological vulnerability of PLHIV and the need for integrating mental health support in HIV care programs.

Determinants of anxiety

Older age (≥40 years) was independently associated with increased anxiety risk. This finding is consistent with the literature suggesting that aging with HIV is linked with a greater psychological burden, driven by cumulative life stressors, comorbidities, and perceived social isolation

[24, 25]

. Food insecurity emerged as a robust predictor of anxiety (aOR = 11.45), highlighting the intersection between socio-economic hardship and mental health. Several studies have demonstrated a strong association between food insecurity and poor mental health outcomes among PLHIV, attributing this relationship to chronic stress, and the inability to meet basic needs

[26]

. Exposure to violence was also associated with a higher risk of anxiety. This corroborates existing evidence that past or ongoing experiences of physical, emotional, or sexual violence significantly increase the risk of anxiety disorders in vulnerable populations, including PLHIV

[8]

. Lastly, participants with a detectable HIV viral load were more likely to report anxiety symptoms. This may reflect both the psychological stress associated with perceived treatment failure and the biological effects of unsuppressed HIV on neurological and mental health pathways

[27]

Determinants of depression

Determinants of depression were similar to those identified for anxiety, but also included the absence of social support and experiences of discrimination. The lack of family or peer support (aOR = 2.44) has consistently been linked to higher levels of psychological distress and is considered a key factor moderating the impact of HIV-related challenges on mental health

[27, 28]

. Discrimination related to HIV status was significantly associated with depression, a finding consistent with previous studies. Stigma and discrimination continue to undermine mental health and health-seeking behaviors among PLHIV, reinforcing social exclusion, internalized stigma, and hopelessness

[2, 6, 8]

. Addressing such psychosocial stressors is essential for improving mental health and adherence outcomes.

Implications for policy and practice

The high burden of anxiety and depression and their strong association with modifiable social and structural factors suggest that mental health care should be systematically integrated into HIV services. Interventions should include routine screening for mental disorders, counselling, food assistance, protection against violence, and community-based stigma reduction strategies. Community health workers and peer supporters can play an important role in implementing these interventions in resource-constrained settings. In addition, healthcare workers in charge of PLHIV should benefit from specific training for screening and management of PLHIV mental health disorders, including the referral of complicated cases to mental health specialists if necessary. This also implies establishing collaboration with tertiary hospitals.

Strengths and limitations

This study has several strengths, including the use of a validated screening tool for anxiety and depression, as well as the multivariable approach employed to identify independent predictors. However, the cross-sectional design limits the ability to infer causality. In addition, the face-to-face data collection may have introduced social desirability bias, particularly regarding sensitive variables such as violence and discrimination. Despite these limitations, the findings provide important evidence to inform mental health strategies for PLHIV in West Africa.

5. Conclusion

Anxiety and depression are common among PLHIV in Burkina Faso and are strongly associated with age, structural and psychosocial vulnerabilities, including food insecurity, violence, and HIV-related stigma. The integration of mental health screening and support services into routine HIV care, with particular attention to the most vulnerable populations, is needed to improve PLHIV care.

Abbreviations

AAS	Association African Solidarité
ART	Antiretroviral Therapy
aOR	Adjusted Odds Ratio
BMI	Body Mass Index
CI	Confidence Interval
HADS	Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale
HIV	Human Immuno Deficiency Virus
OR	Odds Ratio
PLHIV	People Living with HIV

Author Contributions

Ter Tiero Elias Dah: Conceptualization, Project administration, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing

Désiré Lucien Dahourou: Conceptualization, Writing - review & editing

Kadari Cissé: Methodology, Writing - review & editing

Wendgoudi Michael Kaboré: Data curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Writing - review & editing

Diane Somé: Conceptualization, Methodology, Writing - review & editing

Désiré Nanema: Writing - review & editing

Linda Audrey Koubi: Writing - review & editing

Ismael Diallo: Writing-Review and Editing

Samiratou Ouedraogo: Writing - review & editing

Jocelyne Garé: Writing - review & editing

Abdoulaye Hama Diallo: Writing - review & editing

Smaïla Ouedraogo: Supervision, Writing - review & editing

Nicolas Meda: Supervision, Writing - review & editing

Availability of Data

The dataset generated and analysed during the current study is not publicly available. It could be shared after an official demand.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Dah, T. T. E., Dahourou, D. L., Cissé, K., Kaboré, W. M., Somé, D., et al. (2025). High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Central African Journal of Public Health, 11(5), 231-240. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11

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ACS Style

Dah, T. T. E.; Dahourou, D. L.; Cissé, K.; Kaboré, W. M.; Somé, D., et al. High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Cent. Afr. J. Public Health 2025, 11(5), 231-240. doi: 10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11

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AMA Style

Dah TTE, Dahourou DL, Cissé K, Kaboré WM, Somé D, et al. High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Cent Afr J Public Health. 2025;11(5):231-240. doi: 10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11

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@article{10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11,
  author = {Ter Tiero Elias Dah and Désiré Lucien Dahourou and Kadari Cissé and Wendgoudi Michael Kaboré and Diane Somé and Désiré Nanema and Linda Audrey Koubi and Ismael Diallo and Samiratou Ouedraogo and Jocelyne Garé and Abdoulaye Hama Diallo and Smaïla Ouedraogo and Nicolas Meda},
  title = {High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
},
  journal = {Central African Journal of Public Health},
  volume = {11},
  number = {5},
  pages = {231-240},
  doi = {10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.cajph.20251105.11},
  abstract = {Introduction: Anxiety and depression in people living with HIV (PLHIV) are associated with unfavourable HIV response. We assessed the prevalence and the determinants of anxiety and depression in PLHIV followed up in a community-based clinic (Centre Oasis) in Ouagadougou. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and October 2024 in PLHIV receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least 6 months. Demographic, psychosocial, medical, and behavioural information were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire. Anxiety and depression were both assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The determinants were identified using logistic regression models. Results: A total of 293 PLHIV (mean age 42 years, 60.7% females) were included. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was 21.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 16.2-26.3) and 20.5% (95% CI 15.6-25.8), respectively. Anxiety was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio aOR 7.72, 95% CI 1.42-42.0), food insecurity (aOR 11.45, 95% CI 3.27-40.1), exposure to violence (aOR 3.95, 95% CI 1.32-12.5) and detectable HIV viral load (aOR 4.17, 95%CI 1.17-10.3). Depression was associated with older age (aOR 6.68, 95% CI 1.47-30.32), food insecurity (aOR 9.75, 95% CI 3.09-30.77), lack of support (aOR 2.44, 95% CI 1.12-6.35), exposure to violence (aOR 4.22, 95% CI 1.47-12.1), and perceived discrimination (aOR 3.48, 95% CI 1.50-8.08). Conclusion: Anxiety and depression are common among PLHIV in Burkina Faso and are strongly associated with age, structural and psychosocial vulnerabilities. The integration of mental health screening and support services into routine HIV care, with particular attention to the vulnerable populations, is needed.
},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

AU  - Ter Tiero Elias Dah
AU  - Désiré Lucien Dahourou
AU  - Kadari Cissé
AU  - Wendgoudi Michael Kaboré
AU  - Diane Somé
AU  - Désiré Nanema
AU  - Linda Audrey Koubi
AU  - Ismael Diallo
AU  - Samiratou Ouedraogo
AU  - Jocelyne Garé
AU  - Abdoulaye Hama Diallo
AU  - Smaïla Ouedraogo
AU  - Nicolas Meda
Y1  - 2025/09/08
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11
DO  - 10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11
T2  - Central African Journal of Public Health
JF  - Central African Journal of Public Health
JO  - Central African Journal of Public Health
SP  - 231
EP  - 240
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2575-5781
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11
AB  - Introduction: Anxiety and depression in people living with HIV (PLHIV) are associated with unfavourable HIV response. We assessed the prevalence and the determinants of anxiety and depression in PLHIV followed up in a community-based clinic (Centre Oasis) in Ouagadougou. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and October 2024 in PLHIV receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least 6 months. Demographic, psychosocial, medical, and behavioural information were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire. Anxiety and depression were both assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The determinants were identified using logistic regression models. Results: A total of 293 PLHIV (mean age 42 years, 60.7% females) were included. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was 21.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 16.2-26.3) and 20.5% (95% CI 15.6-25.8), respectively. Anxiety was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio aOR 7.72, 95% CI 1.42-42.0), food insecurity (aOR 11.45, 95% CI 3.27-40.1), exposure to violence (aOR 3.95, 95% CI 1.32-12.5) and detectable HIV viral load (aOR 4.17, 95%CI 1.17-10.3). Depression was associated with older age (aOR 6.68, 95% CI 1.47-30.32), food insecurity (aOR 9.75, 95% CI 3.09-30.77), lack of support (aOR 2.44, 95% CI 1.12-6.35), exposure to violence (aOR 4.22, 95% CI 1.47-12.1), and perceived discrimination (aOR 3.48, 95% CI 1.50-8.08). Conclusion: Anxiety and depression are common among PLHIV in Burkina Faso and are strongly associated with age, structural and psychosocial vulnerabilities. The integration of mental health screening and support services into routine HIV care, with particular attention to the vulnerable populations, is needed.

VL  - 11
IS  - 5
ER  -

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Author Information

Ter Tiero Elias Dah

Department of Public Health, Health Sciences Training and Research Faculty, University Ledea Bernard Ouedraogo (ULBO), Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso; Unit of Public Health and Diseases Surveillance, University Hospital of Ouahigouya, Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9249-579X
Désiré Lucien Dahourou

Health Sciences Research Institute (IRSS), O National Centre for Scientific and Technological Research, uagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9261-4573
Kadari Cissé

Health Sciences Research Institute (IRSS), O National Centre for Scientific and Technological Research, uagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0219-0197
Wendgoudi Michael Kaboré

Master of Public Health, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo (UJKZ), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email
Diane Somé

Department of Mental and Psychiatric Diseases, University Hospital Yalgado Ouedraogo, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email
Désiré Nanema

Department of Public Health, Health Sciences Training and Research Faculty, University Ledea Bernard Ouedraogo (ULBO), Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso; Unit of Mental and Psychiatric Diseases, University Hospital of Ouahigouya, Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso

Contact Email
Linda Audrey Koubi

Office for Occupational Health, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email
Ismael Diallo

Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Yalgado Ouedraogo, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email
Samiratou Ouedraogo

Public Health Laboratory (LASAP), Health Sciences Training and Research Faculty, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo (UJKZ), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8224-5543
Jocelyne Garé

Public Health Laboratory (LASAP), Health Sciences Training and Research Faculty, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo (UJKZ), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-0833-764X
Abdoulaye Hama Diallo

Public Health Laboratory (LASAP), Health Sciences Training and Research Faculty, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo (UJKZ), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5362-3346
Smaïla Ouedraogo

Public Health Laboratory (LASAP), Health Sciences Training and Research Faculty, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo (UJKZ), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-6167-5525
Nicolas Meda

Public Health Laboratory (LASAP), Health Sciences Training and Research Faculty, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo (UJKZ), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

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APA Style

Dah, T. T. E., Dahourou, D. L., Cissé, K., Kaboré, W. M., Somé, D., et al. (2025). High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Central African Journal of Public Health, 11(5), 231-240. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11

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ACS Style

Dah, T. T. E.; Dahourou, D. L.; Cissé, K.; Kaboré, W. M.; Somé, D., et al. High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Cent. Afr. J. Public Health 2025, 11(5), 231-240. doi: 10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11

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AMA Style

Dah TTE, Dahourou DL, Cissé K, Kaboré WM, Somé D, et al. High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Cent Afr J Public Health. 2025;11(5):231-240. doi: 10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11,
  author = {Ter Tiero Elias Dah and Désiré Lucien Dahourou and Kadari Cissé and Wendgoudi Michael Kaboré and Diane Somé and Désiré Nanema and Linda Audrey Koubi and Ismael Diallo and Samiratou Ouedraogo and Jocelyne Garé and Abdoulaye Hama Diallo and Smaïla Ouedraogo and Nicolas Meda},
  title = {High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
},
  journal = {Central African Journal of Public Health},
  volume = {11},
  number = {5},
  pages = {231-240},
  doi = {10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.cajph.20251105.11},
  abstract = {Introduction: Anxiety and depression in people living with HIV (PLHIV) are associated with unfavourable HIV response. We assessed the prevalence and the determinants of anxiety and depression in PLHIV followed up in a community-based clinic (Centre Oasis) in Ouagadougou. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and October 2024 in PLHIV receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least 6 months. Demographic, psychosocial, medical, and behavioural information were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire. Anxiety and depression were both assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The determinants were identified using logistic regression models. Results: A total of 293 PLHIV (mean age 42 years, 60.7% females) were included. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was 21.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 16.2-26.3) and 20.5% (95% CI 15.6-25.8), respectively. Anxiety was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio aOR 7.72, 95% CI 1.42-42.0), food insecurity (aOR 11.45, 95% CI 3.27-40.1), exposure to violence (aOR 3.95, 95% CI 1.32-12.5) and detectable HIV viral load (aOR 4.17, 95%CI 1.17-10.3). Depression was associated with older age (aOR 6.68, 95% CI 1.47-30.32), food insecurity (aOR 9.75, 95% CI 3.09-30.77), lack of support (aOR 2.44, 95% CI 1.12-6.35), exposure to violence (aOR 4.22, 95% CI 1.47-12.1), and perceived discrimination (aOR 3.48, 95% CI 1.50-8.08). Conclusion: Anxiety and depression are common among PLHIV in Burkina Faso and are strongly associated with age, structural and psychosocial vulnerabilities. The integration of mental health screening and support services into routine HIV care, with particular attention to the vulnerable populations, is needed.
},
 year = {2025}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - High Anxiety and Depression Among People Living with HIV in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

AU  - Ter Tiero Elias Dah
AU  - Désiré Lucien Dahourou
AU  - Kadari Cissé
AU  - Wendgoudi Michael Kaboré
AU  - Diane Somé
AU  - Désiré Nanema
AU  - Linda Audrey Koubi
AU  - Ismael Diallo
AU  - Samiratou Ouedraogo
AU  - Jocelyne Garé
AU  - Abdoulaye Hama Diallo
AU  - Smaïla Ouedraogo
AU  - Nicolas Meda
Y1  - 2025/09/08
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11
DO  - 10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11
T2  - Central African Journal of Public Health
JF  - Central African Journal of Public Health
JO  - Central African Journal of Public Health
SP  - 231
EP  - 240
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2575-5781
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.cajph.20251105.11
AB  - Introduction: Anxiety and depression in people living with HIV (PLHIV) are associated with unfavourable HIV response. We assessed the prevalence and the determinants of anxiety and depression in PLHIV followed up in a community-based clinic (Centre Oasis) in Ouagadougou. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and October 2024 in PLHIV receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least 6 months. Demographic, psychosocial, medical, and behavioural information were collected using a face-to-face questionnaire. Anxiety and depression were both assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The determinants were identified using logistic regression models. Results: A total of 293 PLHIV (mean age 42 years, 60.7% females) were included. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was 21.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 16.2-26.3) and 20.5% (95% CI 15.6-25.8), respectively. Anxiety was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio aOR 7.72, 95% CI 1.42-42.0), food insecurity (aOR 11.45, 95% CI 3.27-40.1), exposure to violence (aOR 3.95, 95% CI 1.32-12.5) and detectable HIV viral load (aOR 4.17, 95%CI 1.17-10.3). Depression was associated with older age (aOR 6.68, 95% CI 1.47-30.32), food insecurity (aOR 9.75, 95% CI 3.09-30.77), lack of support (aOR 2.44, 95% CI 1.12-6.35), exposure to violence (aOR 4.22, 95% CI 1.47-12.1), and perceived discrimination (aOR 3.48, 95% CI 1.50-8.08). Conclusion: Anxiety and depression are common among PLHIV in Burkina Faso and are strongly associated with age, structural and psychosocial vulnerabilities. The integration of mental health screening and support services into routine HIV care, with particular attention to the vulnerable populations, is needed.

VL  - 11
IS  - 5
ER  -

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