The impact of undernutrition and anemia on HIV-related mortality among children on ART in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although there have been significant advancements in providing HIV-infected children with access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), the mortality rates have remained unacceptably high. Inadequate nutrient intake or absorption is a widespread problem in several African nations, resulting in undernutrition and anemia. However, the pooled effect of malnutrition and anemia on HIV-related death related to children receiving ART was not investigated in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS: We searched multiple electronic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science) for observational studies published between January 1, 2010, and April 24, 2024 that reported the risk factors or effects of undernutrition and, anemia on HIV-related mortality among children. Study selection, data extraction, and quality evaluation were carried out separately by two reviewers. A meta-analysis was conducted using random effect models. RESULTS: The review included 27 studies with a combined total of 61,796 study participants. The study findings showed that severe wasting (HR: 2.49; 95% CI: 1.87–3.30), being underweight (HR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.64–2.72), and Anemia (HR: 2.58; 95% CI: 2.08–3.19) were highly linked to HIV-related death among children. The risk of death due to anemia was greater among children under the age of 5 years than older children. CONCLUSION: Undernutrition and anemia in sub-Saharan African children increased the risk of HIV-related death. The impact of malnutrition and anemia among under 5 years old children with HIV/AIDS was more pronounced, suggesting that these conditions at this early age can have more serious consequences for a child’s survival. The importance of combining nutrition with HIV treatment programs in sub-Saharan African countries is crucial.
Authors
Moges S, Lajore BA, Oleba AF, Godebo AS, Funga ML
Year
2024
Topics
- Epidemiology and Determinants of Health
- Determinants of Health
- Determinants of Health
- Food security
- Income
- Health services
- Population(s)
- Children or Youth (less than 18 years old)
- Prevention, Engagement and Care Cascade
- Engagement and Care Cascade
- Engagement and Care Cascade
- Treatment
- Co-morbidities
- Other