Nutritional Status and Quality of Life in children and adolescents with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection 

Authors: I. Martins1, I. Asseiceira2, S. Policarpo2, E. Carolino3, F. Prata4, A. Mouzinho4, J. G. Marques4
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon
2Dietetic and Nutrition Service, Santa Maria Hospital, CHLN
3Department of paediatric infectiology, Santa Maria Hospital, CHLN
4Lisbon School of Health Technology, Polytechnic Institute of Lisbon

Background and Aims: The growth and cellular immune function of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected children is impaired by their nutritional status. The majority experience nutrition deficits and malnutrition, but with longer follow-up body fat redistribution, altered lipid levels and insulin resistance are being described. The aim of the study was to assess Nutritional status in HIV-infected children and adolescents. 

Methods: Cross sectional study. A sample of 31 HIV-infected children and adolescents was assessed based on anthropometry (weight, height, body mass index (BMI), triceps skinfolds and upper arm circumference), body composition obtained by electrical bioimpedance and expressed as fat mass index (FMI) and lean body mass (LBM); dietary intake (recall 24 hours) and HRQoL (Kidscreen 27). Statistical analysis IBM® SPSS® v.25. 

Results: Z-scores of BMI: 25% overweight and 7,1% obese. Dietary intake of vitamin A, D, E, folate, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, fiber, zinc, sodium, sugar, protein, energy sodium and sugar do not correspond to DRI’s. Differences by gender were found in physical well-being (p=0,003) and psychological well-being (p=0,046), with males being associated with better well-being. Higher BMI z-score values were associated with lower values of resistance, reactance and fiber intake.

Conclusions: Children’s and adolescents are now living with HIV as a chronic disease, which is related with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) that has been shown to be associated with unhealthy dietary patterns. Nutritional intervention is necessary to optimize health status, including the dietary intake of macronutrients and micronutrients, BMI z-score and ensure a good quality of life.

NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV) INFECTION