Cumulative Burden of Mental Health Factors and Engagement in HIV Care in Argentina

Background Cumulative burden of multiple mental health conditions may worsen physical health outcomes in vulnerable populations. Accordingly, identifying cumulative burdens of mental health conditions that may affect HIV treatment and care can guide public health strategies to reduce their impact on HIV-related health outcomes. This study examined the relationship between the cumulative burden of mental health conditions and factors associated with engagement in HIV care in Argentina. Method Data for this study was obtained at baseline from Conexiones y Opciones Positivas en la Argentina 2 (COPA2). Participants ( N = 360) were cisgender patients living with HIV who were lost to care, recruited from seven clinics serving people living with HIV in four Argentine urban centers. Cumulative burden of mental health conditions (i.e., depressive symptoms, problematic substance use, unhealthy alcohol use, and psychotic symptoms) was assessed. Results Every one-point increase in the number of mental health conditions present was associated with a decrement in patient-provider communication ( b = − 0.22, p