Determinants of Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Amongst HIV Positive Adults in South Africa: A Longitudinal Study Dikokole Maqutu; Temesgen Zewotir; Delia North University of kwaZulu Natal. Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209. E-mail: dikokolemaqutu@yahoo.com ; zewotir@ukzn.ac.za ; Northd@ukzn.ac.za 1. Background Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has dramatically reduced morbidity and mortality among HIV- infected individuals (Hogg, Heath et al. 1998; Mocroft, Ledergerber et al. 2003). However, HAART requires strict adherence for the attainment of the optimal clinical and survival benefits (Paterson, Swindells et al. 2000; Bangsberg, Perry et al. 2001; Knobel, Guelar et al. 2001). Unlike other chronic diseases in which lower adherence rates allow for continued efficacy, strict compliance to HAART is essential (Paterson, Swindells et al. 2000). In fact, in excess of 95% adherence to HAART is required for adequate virological and immunological response (Paterson, Swindells et al. 2000; Cook, Sereika et al. 2001; Orrell, Bangsberg et STCPMs Sessions T Contents Print Page 1 of 30