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Assessing the impact of a food supplement on the nutritional status and body composition of HIV-infected Zambian women on ARVs

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 21:33 authored by Zulu, RM, Nuala ByrneNuala Byrne, Munthali, GK, Chipeta, J, Handema, R, Musonda, M, Andrew HillsAndrew Hills

Background: Zambia is a sub-Saharan country with one of the highest prevalence rates of HIV, currently estimated at 14%. Poor nutritional status due to both protein-energy and micronutrient malnutrition has worsened this situation. In an attempt to address this combined problem, the government has instigated a number of strategies, including the provision of antiretroviral (ARV) treatment coupled with the promotion of good nutrition. High-energy protein supplement (HEPS) is particularly promoted; however, the impact of this food supplement on the nutritional status of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) beyond weight gain has not been assessed. Techniques for the assessment of nutritional status utilising objective measures of body composition are not commonly available in Zambia. The aim of this study is therefore to assess the impact of a food supplement on nutritional status using a comprehensive anthropometric protocol including measures of skinfold thickness and circumferences, plus the criterion deuterium dilution technique to assess total body water (TBW) and derive fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM).

Methods/Design: This community-based controlled and longitudinal study aims to recruit 200 HIV-infected females commencing ARV treatment at two clinics in Lusaka, Zambia. Data will be collected at four time points: baseline, 4-month, 8-month and 12-month follow-up visits. Outcome measures to be assessed include body height and weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, CD4, viral load and micronutrient status.

Discussion: This protocol describes a study that will provide a longitudinal assessment of the impact of a food supplement on the nutritional status of HIV-infected females initiating ARVs using a range of anthropometric and body composition assessment techniques.

History

Publication title

Bmc Public Health

Volume

11

Article number

714

Number

714

Pagination

1-8

ISSN

1471-2458

Department/School

School of Health Sciences

Publisher

Biomed Central Ltd

Place of publication

United Kingdom

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Women's and maternal health

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