Pathways of onward HIV disclosure in relationships among young people living with vertically acquired HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy: a qualitative analysis from the BREATHER Plus trial, South Africa

In a clinical trial setting in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, we investigate how young people living with vertically acquired HIV navigate onward disclosure. Data were from the qualitative component of the BREATHER Plus randomised controlled trial evaluating the efficacy, safety and acceptability of short cycle dolutegravir/tenofovir based triple antiretroviral therapy (ART) in young people aged 12-19 years.

We analyse data on thirty-five participants receiving ART engaged in clinical trials at the research site: 29 in longitudinal in-depth interviews (IDIs) and 12 across three focus group discussions (FGDs) including six in IDIs and FGDs. The Disclosure Processes Model was applied in the thematic analysis. Pre-disclosure was characterised by social assessments of potential confidants.