Food consumption patterns and nutritional status of people living with HIV in Calabar

Abstract

Alterations in nutritional status are common with HIV infections. Wasting syndrome increases predisposition to opportunistic infections. Food consumption pattern is a known determinant factor for nutritional problems among PLWH. This study was conducted at the Heart-to-Heart Clinic of General Hospital Calabar, to assess food consumption patterns of PLWH. One hundred and twenty eight (128) subjects (50 males and 78 females) made of 50 HIV+ve on treatment (ART), 50HIV+ve not on treatment (NART) and 28 non infected control group. Ethical clearance and consent was obtained from Centre for Clinical Governance, Research and Training, Ministry of Health Calabar while participation was voluntary. Data collection was done by trained field workers for measurement of weight and height, food frequency questionnaire. The results showed significant differences in consumption pattern of carbohydrates (chi = 15.994, df = 6, p<0.05), legumes (chi = 9.871, df = 4, p<0.05), fats/oil at p<0.001 level. The most commonly consumed foods were cassava and cassava products, plantain, rice, bread, fish and some fruits and vegetables. Vegetables and fruits were consumed only 3-6 times a week. Body Mass Index (BMI) was significantly lower in NARTs. This study showed that food consumption patterns and changes in Body Mass Index (BMI) are synergistically interwoven among PLWH.