Marseille 2007
Marseille 2007
Abstract book
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Abstract #299  -  Is Triomune a political medicine ? patients perceptions in Yaound, Cameroon
Session:
  26.95: Posters B (Poster) on Tuesday   in  Chaired by
Authors:
  Presenting Author:   Ms Djetcha Sophie - CReCSS, France
 
  Additional Authors:   
Aim:
The fixed-dose combination generic antiretroviral medicine Triomune is widely used in Africa. Due to its low cost, it is also considered as a treatment affordable for the poor, necessary to fulfil equity in access to ART. We do not know yet if these perceptions of Triomune as a democratic medicine at public health level influences perceptions at patients individual level, with consequences on their adherence to treatment.
 
Method / Issue:
17 patients from Yaound, Cameroon, included in ANRS 1274 cohort that showed the efficacy of Triomune (Bangkok 2004), have been interviewed in 2003, 2006 and 2007 as part of a qualitative research on psychosocial aspects of treatment, including perceptions and impact. Topics were related to perceptions of medicine as a generic, as a low-cost drug, and as a first line treatment.
 
Results / Comments:
Generic drugs are often considered as second class drugs in Africa. Many patients give more value to drugs produced in developed countries than to drugs coming from Southern countries, less trusted. On the other hand, Triomune is considered as the only affordable treatment, both necessary and convenient. In 2003, patients perceptions of treatment were mainly positive, related to the physical effect of the drug on their body, and to discourses about the drug held within the relationship with health care workers and support associations. In 2007, media and community-based organizations in Cameroon have strong discourses for or against various kinds of ART medicines. Non conventional treatments have developed besides ART.
 
Discussion:
Their influence, as well as four-years experience influence on patients discourses will be described and discussed. Interactions between public discourses and personal perceptions will be analysed to understand their impact on adherence.
 
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