Journal of Chemistry: Education Research and Practice(JCERP)
ISSN: 2578-7365 | DOI: 10.33140/JCERP
Impact Factor: 1.64
Prevalence of Dyslipidemia and Its Association with HAART Regimens among HIV-Positive Patients at Machakos Level V Hospital
Abstract
Sarah Malinda Syengo*, Scholastica G. Mathenge and Nelson C. Menza
Background: Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has transformed HIV management, improving survival and quality of life. However, prolonged use has been associated with metabolic derangements, including dyslipidemia, which elevates cardiovascular disease risk. Evaluating lipid changes across HAART regimens enhances laboratory and clinical understanding of therapy-related complications.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of dyslipidemia and its association with HAART regimens among HIV-positive patients attending Machakos Level V Hospital, Kenya.
Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 406 HIV-positive adults on HAART was conducted. Data on socio- demographics and clinical characteristics were obtained through questionnaires. Venous blood was collected after overnight fasting, and serum lipid profiles (TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C) were analyzed using enzymatic colorimetric assays. Dyslipidemia was classified per NCEP-ATP III criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS v28, with Chi-square and logistic regression used to test associations at p < 0.05.
Results: Overall dyslipidemia prevalence was 74.1%. Protease inhibitor (PI)-based regimens were associated with higher mean TC and LDL-C levels and significantly elevated TC/HDL-C ratios (p = 0.046). PI users were four times more likely to have a high atherogenic index (OR = 4.19, 95% CI 1.03–17.02). Low HDL-C (58.5%) and high TG (47.4%) were the most frequent abnormalities, while high LDL-C was least common (26.2%). Dyslipidemia prevalence was slightly higher in males and older participants but not statistically significant. Hypertension was significantly associated with dyslipidemia (p = 0.044).
Conclusion: Dyslipidemia is highly prevalent among HIV-positive patients on HAART, especially those on PI regimens. Strengthening laboratory monitoring, clinician laboratory collaboration, and education on lipid interpretation in HIV care are vital for improved patient outcomes.