Nutritional Status and Dietary Diversity Among HIV-Positive Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in South Delhi, India

Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the nutritional status of HIV-positive adults by anthropometric measurements and dietary intake. Study also aims to assess prevalence of malnutrition and food consumption patterns, nutrient intake, and adherence to dietary recommendations to understand how nutrition impacts on overall health among HIV-positive adults.

Study Design: This study was a cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at ART center of Safdarjung hospital New Delhi, between August 2023 till May 2024.

Methodology: 100 HIV-Positive adults (aged 18-35 years including both gender males and females) seeking treatment were invited to take part in the study & compare the dietary factors associated with Nutritional intake and Dietary practices among HIV-Positive adults. Purposive sampling was used to collect data. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic information. Height and weight of the subjects were recorded with standard procedures and BMI was calculated. Food and nutrient intake of subjects was calculated by 24-hour dietary recall method.

Results: Study showed that the mean age of subjects was 28.98 years with 61% male and 39% female. It was observed that out of 100 subjects, 70% were married 28% were unmarried and 2% were divorced and in terms of their literacy, only 8% were above graduate. The mean BMI of the respondents was 22.49 ±3.52. The mean nutrient intake for energy among sedentary male was 1805 Kcal/day, protein 51g/day, & fat 57g/day and carbohydrate 271g/day, while the mean nutrient intake of Male (heavy active) was very poor with the consumption of energy 1547Kcal/day, protein 39.9g/day, fat 47.9g/day and carbohydrate 239g/day. Study showed that the mean nutrient intake was exceeded from the recommended level among sedentary females.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the study revealed diverse demographics and lifestyles among subjects with varied marital status, literacy levels, and nutrient intakes. Sedentary males had adequate nutrient intake, while heavily active males had poor nutrient intake. Interestingly, sedentary females' nutrient intake exceeded recommended levels. These findings underscore the importance of tailored nutritional recommendations based on activity levels and demographics to ensure optimal health. A good nutrition status can prevent developing from co-morbidities because most of the patients with AIDS disease become undernourished, malnourished, and die of infections other than HIV.