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Factors Associated with Overweight and Abdominal Obesity among Adults Living with HIV

Jasmine Beryl Lydia S, International Union Against Tuberculosis And Lung Disease
Ezhilarasi Chandrasekaran, Biostatistician, YRG Care
Suneeta Saghayam, Assistant Professor, Women's Christian College

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), a huge pandemic has affected the lives of millions of people globally. In the recent antiretroviral therapy (ART) era, obesity has taken over the wasting syndrome, which is significant among PLHIVs. The objective of this study is to find out the prevalence of overweight and abdominal obesity among adults living with HIV and determine the HIV and diet related factors associated with it. 300 consecutive HIV patients attending the out-patient clinic at YRG Medical centre were recruited after obtaining an informed consent. A cross-sectional study design and a validated questionnaire was used to elucidate socio-demography, HIV and dietary information. Multiple regression analysis was performed and a p-value >0.05 was considered significant. The prevalence of overweight and abdominal obesity was 67% and 56% respectively. The factors associated with overweight and obesity included the female gender, age =40 years, and a higher income. Less physical activity, on ART for >5 years, usage of excess cooking oil, reuse of cooking oil and consumption of food above the recommended dietary allowance. Since HIV related factors cannot be modified, dietary factors should be modified to prevent overweight and abdominal obesity. Counselling on dietary modifications and regular physical activity can help in preventing co-morbidities associated with obesity.

Keywords: Health and morbidity, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Older adults, Gender

See extended abstract.

  Presented in Session P18.