Nutritional Status and Trace Elements in HIV-Infected Individuals
Author Information
Author(s): Khalili H, Soudbakhsh A, Hajiabdolbaghi M, Dashti-Khavidaki S, Poorzare A, Saeedi AA, Sharififar R
Primary Institution: Tehran University of Medical Sciences
Hypothesis
This study aims to evaluate the nutritional status of newly diagnosed Iranian HIV-infected individuals and compare their serum zinc and selenium levels with healthy individuals.
Conclusion
Malnutrition is prevalent among Iranian HIV-infected individuals, and low serum zinc and selenium levels are common in this population.
Supporting Evidence
- 15% of HIV-infected individuals had severe malnutrition.
- 38% had moderate malnutrition, and 24% had mild malnutrition.
- Serum zinc and selenium levels were significantly lower in HIV-infected individuals compared to healthy controls.
Takeaway
Many people with HIV in Iran are not getting enough nutrients, which can make them sicker. They also have low levels of important minerals like zinc and selenium.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted with interviews, physical examinations, and serum zinc and selenium measurements in HIV-infected individuals and matched healthy controls.
Limitations
The cross-sectional design limits conclusions about the effects of nutritional status on disease progression.
Participant Demographics
The study included 100 HIV-infected adult males with a mean age of 35.4 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01 for zinc, 0.02 for selenium
Confidence Interval
95% confidence interval = 1.2–4.5
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website