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Article History

Received: 26 February 2026

Accepted: 17 April 2026

First Online: 23 April 2026

Declarations

:

: Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Committee on Human Research, Publications and Ethics (CHRPE/AP/449/24), with additional permission from the management of the Tamale Teaching Hospital. The study adhered to the ethical principles of the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki [ ]. Given the vulnerability of people living with HIV who had been lost to follow-up, several safeguards were implemented. Participation was voluntary, with informed consent obtained through signatures or thumbprints, and participants were assured of their right to withdraw at any time without affecting their care. Confidentiality was prioritised through the use of identification codes, anonymised data, and secure storage of recordings and transcripts. Interviews were conducted in private settings or at locations chosen by participants to minimise the risk of unintended disclosure, with additional discretion exercised during external contact. To reduce potential harm, interviews were conducted in a supportive and non-judgmental manner, with participants allowed to pause or stop if distressed. Where necessary, referrals were made for counselling or clinical support. Recruitment processes were carefully managed to avoid coercion and to emphasise independence from routine healthcare services. These measures ensured the protection of participants’ rights, dignity, and well-being throughout the study.

: Not Applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests.