Antiretroviral Therapy, Especially Efavirenz, Is Associated with Low Bone Mineral Density in HIV-Infected South Africans

Abstract

Purpose We determined the prevalence and correlates of low bone mineral density (BMD) in HIVinfected South Africans as there is a paucity of such data from Africa. Methods BMD and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D were measured in HIV-positive participants on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and in those not yet on ART (ART-naïve). Results We enrolled 444 participants [median age 35(IQR: 30, 40) years; 77% women]. BMD was low (z score