The prevalence of non-AIDS comorbidities among people living with HIV in Tbilisi, Georgia

Abstract

Abstract

Background

Georgia has made significant accomplishments in the effective delivery of HIV treatment and care. However, little is known about the burden of non-AIDS comorbidities (NACM) in Georgia. The objectives of the study were to estimate the burden of NACM among people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection in Georgia, establish a Georgian

NACM cohort, and estimate the prevalence of NACM.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the burden of NACM among people living with HIV infection receiving care at the Infectious Diseases, AIDS, and Clinical Immunology Research Center (IDACIRC). Statistical software R version 4.1.2, along with its packages for statistical

analysis was used to conduct statistical analysis.

Results: Overall, 1200 patients were included in the study. The prevalence of hypertension was 65% in male participants. Other comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) -- 55 (65%), chronic kidney disease (CKD) -- 8 (73%), diabetes mellitus (DM) -- 67 (83%), and dyslipidemia -- 120 (58%) -- were more prevalent in female participants. The risk of NACM increases with age.

Conclusions 

Long-term healthcare management and long-term health outcomes could be improved for people living with human immunodeficiency virus infection by careful HIV management according to current recommendations with optimal selection of antiretrovirals and early management of comorbidities through recommended lifestyle improvements and preventative measures.