Nutritional status of HIV-infected patients in Fars Province, Southern Iran

Malnutrition among HIV-infected people is a notable problem that can affect both the therapeutic response and severity of this illness. The aim of this study is to assess the nutritional status based on the body mass index of HIV-infected patients in Fars Province, Iran. This cross-sectional study enrolled 485 HIV-positive individuals. Anthropometric indices and demographic and socioeconomic information were identified. Among HIV-positive individuals, 14.9% had evidence of malnutrition, while 26.7% were either overweight or obese. The authors observed a significant difference between body mass index and different socioeconomic classes, as well as body mass index and gender. Since undernutrition is more prevalent among HIV-infected patients who belong to a low socioeconomic class, it is substantially important to pay specific attention to this group of underprivileged patients.