Nutritional status and lipid profile assessment in HIV-positive patients undergoing treatment at a Specialized Care Center in Vale do Taquari – Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus is the cause virus of AIDS, and HIV patients may be dependent on antiretrovirals. Objectives: This study evaluated the nutritional status and lipid profile of 38 HIV-infected patients treated at a specialized care center. Methods: Patients were divided into two groups: one with and one without antiretroviral therapy. Results: The mean age was 43.1 years in the therapy group, and 36.8 years without therapy. Anthropometric evaluation revealed normal weight in both groups (23.87 kg/m2 in the group with and 23.66 kg/m2 in the group without). Lipid profile sees a significant increase in total cholesterol (212.73 mg / dL) in the therapy group compared to those without (163 mg / dL), LDL also increased in the therapy group (133.76 mg / dL) compared to those without (97.78 mg / dL). The intake of macronutrients was within normal limits. Conclusions: The use of antiretroviral therapy for HIV-positive patients may alter the lipid profile.