Metzler, Ian Scott2007-07-312007-07-312007-07-31https://hdl.handle.net/1794/454970 p. A THESIS Presented to the Department of Human Physiology and the Clark Honors College of the University of Oregon in partial fulfillment of the requirements for degree of Bachelor of Science, Summer 2007.HIV/AIDS has caused millions of deaths and untold suffering throughout the world. Although there is no cure, treatment exists that has transformed this disease from an acutely lethal infection into a manageable chronic illness. However, successfully treating HIV/AIDS requires high levels of adherence to prescribed medications. Unlike most aspects of antiretroviral treatment, adherence depends on the behavior of the patient, which is influenced by a multitude of factors from every sector of society. This paper discusses the challenges to treatment adherence within a model country, South Africa. To highlight the necessity of addressing obstacles to adherence, this paper also investigates the biological consequences resulting from poor adherence. These consequences are significant for both the individual and humanity as a whole. Establishing a medical strategy to treat HIV/AIDS is not enough; turning the tides of the HIV/AIDS pandemic will require an understanding of the societal factors affecting adherence as well.HIV/AIDS has caused millions of deaths and untold suffering throughout the world. Although there is no cure, treatment exists that has transformed this disease from an acutely lethal infection into a manageable chronic illness. However, successfully treating HIV/AIDS requires high levels of adherence to prescribed medications. Unlike most aspects of antiretroviral treatment, adherence depends on the behavior of the patient, which is influenced by a multitude of factors from every sector of society. This paper discusses the challenges to treatment adherence within a model country, South Africa. To highlight the necessity of addressing obstacles to adherence, this paper also investigates the biological consequences resulting from poor adherence. These consequences are significant for both the individual and humanity as a whole. Establishing a medical strategy to treat HIV/AIDS is not enough; turning the tides of the HIV/AIDS pandemic will require an understanding of the societal factors affecting adherence as well.538112 bytesapplication/msworden-USHIV/AIDSAdherenceSouth AfricaAntiretroviral treatmentAntiretroviral agentsAIDS (Disease) -- South AfricaThesis