Hematological abnormalities and associated factors among adult HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital: A cross sectional study

Abstract

Hematological abnormalities are common in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and can have significant clinical implications. These abnormalities can affect various components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. However, screening and follow up of HIV positive patients for these abnormalities is not well reported in Ethiopia, specifically in Harar. Therefore, this study is aimed to determine prevalence of hematological abnormalities and associated factors among Adult HIV infected patients on antiretroviral therapy at the Antiretroviral clinic of Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia, from September 2, October 30, 2024. A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted by involving 300 study participants using convenient sampling technique. Data related to socio-demographic, clinical and dietary variables were collected using structured questionnaires. All phase of quality assurance was maintained. Four milliliters of venous blood were collected from each study participant and complete blood count was determined using unicell DxH 800 hematological analyzer. Logistic regression was conducted to assess the association between hematological abnormalities and independent variables. P < 18.5 kg/m2, patients having low monthly income and patients who lived with HIV for more than 12 years is vital to reduce the magnitude of anemia and its consequences.