Weight Change in HIV-Positive Injection Drug Users Starting Antiretroviral Therapy
Author Information
Author(s): Alice M. Tang, Heidi B. Sheehan, Michael R. Jordan, Dang Van Duong, Norma Terrin, Kimberly Dong, Trinh Thi Minh Lien, Vu Trung Nguyen, Christine A. Wanke, Duc Hien Nguyen
Primary Institution: Tufts University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the clinical and nutritional predictors of weight change in male HIV-positive injection drug users initiating antiretroviral therapy?
Conclusion
The study found significant weight gain in the first six months after starting antiretroviral therapy, which then stabilized in the following six months.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants with CD4 < 200 cells/μL at the start of ART gained more weight in the first 6 months.
- Excellent adherence to ART was associated with positive weight change in the first 6 months.
- Use of liquid supplements significantly predicted weight gain in the first 6 months.
Takeaway
When men with HIV who use drugs start their treatment, they often gain weight quickly at first, but then it levels off after a while.
Methodology
The study used a longitudinal design with repeated measures to assess weight change and predictors over two 6-month intervals.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data on drug use and adherence may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study may not be generalizable to populations where injection drug use is not the major mode of HIV transmission, and it did not account for other medical comorbidities.
Participant Demographics
The study included 99 HIV-positive male injection drug users, with an average age of 32 years, predominantly married and with a high prevalence of Hepatitis C.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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