Effect of the BATHE Technique on Quality of Life in Adults with HIV/AIDS in Northern Nigeria.

BACKGROUND

Advancements in HIV/AIDS treatment have transformed the condition into a manageable chronic disease with improved life expectancy. However, increased survival does not always guarantee better quality of life (QoL). Psychosocial interventions, such as the BATHE technique, offer a structured approach to addressing emotional and social challenges in routine care. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the BATHE technique on the QoL of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH), an area with limited empirical evidence, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

METHODS

This single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted on 78 adults PLWH attending the outpatient HIV clinic. The participants were randomized into intervention and control groups. While all participants received standard care, the intervention group received an additional three sessions of the BATHE counselling technique at six-week intervals. Quality of life was evaluated using the WHO Quality of Life Brief (WHOQOL-HIV BREF) instrument, with assessments conducted at baseline and after 18 weeks. Independent t-test, paired t-test, and chi-square test were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics and QoL scores were comparable between groups (p > 0.05). Post-intervention, the BATHE group had higher mean QoL scores across all domains, but differences were not statistically significant (overall QoL: 14.59 ± 4.02 vs 13.16 ± 4.45; p = 0.147), and no significant difference was observed within-group changes.

CONCLUSION

Although QoL scores improved in the intervention group, the differences were not statistically significant. Future studies with larger sample size and longer follow-up are needed to clarify the role of BATHE in HIV care.