Prevalence, detection, treatment, and control of hypertension in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients attending HIV clinics in the Western Cape Province, South Africa

Designing an implementation science clinical trial to integrate hypertension and cardiovascular diseases care into existing HIV services package in Botswana (InterCARE)

BACKGROUND

Despite success in HIV treatment, diagnosis and management of hypertension (HTN) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains suboptimal among people living with HIV (PLWH) in Botswana, with an overall HTN control of only 19% compared to 98% HIV viral suppressed. These gaps persist despite CVD primary care national guidelines and availability of free healthcare including antihypertensive medications. Our study aims to develop and test strategies to close the HTN care gap in PLWH, through integration into HIV care, leveraging the successful national HIV care and treatment program and strategies.

METHODS

The InterCARE trial is a cluster randomized controlled hybrid type 2 effectiveness-implementation trial at 14 sites designed to enroll 4652 adults living with HIV and HTN plus up to 2326 treatment partners. Primary outcomes included effectiveness (HTN control) and implementation outcomes using the Reach Effectiveness Adoption Implementation and Maintenance framework, with explanatory mixed methods used to understand variability in outcomes. InterCARE trial's main strategies include healthcare worker HTN and CVD care training plus long-term practice facilitation, electronic health record (EHR) documentation of key indicators and use of reminders, and use of treatment partners to provide social support to people living with HIV and HTN. InterCARE started with formative research to identify contextual factors influencing care gaps using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Results were used to adapt initial and develop additional implementation strategies to address barriers and leverage facilitators. The package was pilot tested in two clinics, with findings used to further adapt or add strategies for the clinical trial.

DISCUSSION

If successful, the InterCARE model can be scaled up to HIV clinics nationwide to improve diagnosis, management, and support in Botswana. The trial will provide insights for scale-up of HTN integration into HIV care in the region.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov reference NCT05414526. Registered 18 May 2022, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05414526?term=NCT05414526.&rank=1 .

Hypertension among people living with human immunodeficiency virus in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of hypertension in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We searched the PubMed, Google Scholar, African Index Medicus, and Embase databases to identify studies published from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2021. We used a random-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of hypertension and mean SBP/DBP level on a sex-specific basis. We included 48 studies reporting data on a pooled sample of 193,843 people living with HIV (PLW-HIV) in SSA. The pooled mean SBP/DBP level was 120 (95% CI 113-128)/77 (95%CI 72-82) mmHg, while the overall pooled prevalence of hypertension was 21.9% (95% CI 19.9-23.9%). Further meta-regression analyses suggested that the prevalence of hypertension was 1.33 times greater in males, 1.23 times greater in individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 1.45 times greater in those individuals with a CD4-count ≥ 200. This meta-analysis of the contemporary pattern of BP levels among PLW-HIV in SSA, suggests that around one in five of such individuals also have hypertension. Given the further context of greater access to ART and subsequently greater longevity, study findings support calls to integrate cardiovascular management into routine HIV care.

Quantitative outcomes of a type 2 single arm hybrid effectiveness implementation pilot study for hypertension-HIV integration in Botswana

BACKGROUND

Successful HIV treatment programs have turned HIV into a chronic condition, but noncommunicable diseases such as hypertension jeopardize this progress. Hypertension control rates among people with HIV (PWH) are low owing to gaps in patient awareness, diagnosis, effective treatment, and management of both conditions at separate clinic visits. Integrated management, such as in our study, InterCARE, can enhance HIV-hypertension integration and blood pressure (BP) control.

METHODS

Our pilot study was conducted in two Botswana HIV clinics between October 2021 and November 2022. Based on our formative work, we adopted three main strategies; Health worker training on HTN/cardiovascular disease (CVD) management, adaptation of HIV Electronic Health Record (EHR) for HTN/CVD care, and use of treatment partners to support PWH with hypertension for implementation. We employed the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework to assess implementation effectiveness and outcomes for BP control at baseline, 6 and 12 months. HIV viral load (VL) suppression was also measured to assess impact of integration on HIV care.

RESULTS

We enrolled 290 participants; 35 (12.1%) were lost to follow-up, leaving 255 (87.9%) at 12-months. Median age was 54 years (IQR 46-62), and 77.2% were females. Our interventions significantly improved BP control to < 140/90 mmHg (or < 130/80 mmHg if diagnosis of diabetes or chronic kidney disease), from 137/290 participants, 47.2% at baseline to 206/290 participants, 71.0%, at 12 months (p < 0.001). Among targeted providers, 94.7% received training, with an associated significant increase in counseling on exercise, diet, and medication (all p < 0.001) but EHR use for BP medication prescribing and cardiovascular risk factor evaluation showed no adoption. In the intention-to-treat analysis, HIV VL suppression at 12 months decreased (85.5% vs 93.8%, p = 0.002) due to loss to follow-up but the per protocol analysis showed no difference in VL suppression between baseline and 12 months (97.3% vs 93.3%, p = 0.060).

CONCLUSION

The InterCARE pilot study demonstrated that low-cost practical support measures involving the integration of HIV and hypertension/CVD management could lead to improvements in BP control. These results support the need for a large implementation and effectiveness trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05414526. Registered 18th May 2022.

Mapping evidence on barriers to and facilitators of diagnosing noncommunicable diseases among people living with human immunodeficiency virus in low- and middle-income countries in Africa: A scoping review

Objectives

To map the evidence on the barriers to and facilitators of diagnosing noncommunicable diseases among people living with HIV in low- and middle-income countries in Africa.

Introduction

Noncommunicable diseases are increasing among people living with HIV. Thus, strengthened and sustained diagnosis of noncommunicable diseases through integrated noncommunicable diseases and HIV care is needed to improve patient outcomes. However, there is paucity of evidence on the barriers and facilitators diagnosing noncommunicable diseases among people living with HIV in low- and middle-income countries.

Methods

The Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework was used. A comprehensive systematic search of academic databases (MEDLINE, Academic Search Complete, APA PsycInfo, CAB, and Health Source/Nursing) was performed via EBSCO search and PubMed. The articles were reviewed independently by three reviewers. The results were structured using Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior model and Theoretical Domains Framework.

Results

A total of 152 articles were retrieved for full-text review. Forty-one articles met the inclusion criteria. The identified barriers were relevant to all the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior constructs and 14 Theoretical Domains Framework domains. A lack of knowledge and awareness of noncommunicable diseases, fear of stigma, financial problems and out-of-pocket payments were the most cited patient-level barriers. Healthcare providers (knowledge and awareness gaps, skill and competence deficiencies, unwillingness, burnout, low motivation, and apathy) were frequently cited. Lack of equipment, noncommunicable disease medications and supply chain challenges, lack of integrated noncommunicable disease and HIV care, and shortage of trained healthcare providers were identified as health-system-level barriers.

Conclusion

This scoping review is the first to identify barriers and facilitators using a theoretical framework. The most cited barriers include a lack of integrated HIV and noncommunicable disease care, equipment and logistics chain challenges for noncommunicable diseases, patients' and healthcare providers' lack of knowledge and awareness of noncommunicable diseases, and healthcare provider's skill and competency deficiencies. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on healthcare providers and health systems.

Incidence and prevalence of hypertension among HIV-TB co-infected participants accessing treatment: A five-year prospective cohort analysis

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). This study determined incidence and prevalence of hypertension among PLWH receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).

METHOD

We prospectively followed-up 642 HIV and tuberculosis (TB) co-infected study participants from 2005-2013. We defined hypertension as two consecutive elevated systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure measurements above 139/89 mmHg or current use of antihypertensive therapy.

RESULTS

Of 507 participants analyzed, 53% were women. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] age, body mass index (BMI), and CD4 count was 34 (28.0-40.0) years, 22.7 (20.5-25.4) kg/m2, and 145 (69.0-252.0) cells/mm3, respectively. Incidence [95% confidence interval (CI)] of both systolic and diastolic hypertension overall, in men, and in women over 40 years was 1.9 (1.4-2.6), 5.9 (3.6-9.6), and 5.0 (2.7-9.3) per 100 person-years (PY), respectively. Risk of developing hypertension was higher in men [(adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 12.04, 95% CI: 4.35-33.32)] and women over 40 years (aHR 8.19, 95% CI 2.96-22.64), and in men below 40 years (aHR 2.79, 95% CI 0.95-8.23).

CONCLUSION

Higher incidence rates of hypertension among older men and women accessing ART highlight opportunities to expand current integrated HIV-TB care models, to include cardiovascular disease risk screening and care to prevent premature death.

Prevalence of obesity, hypertension and diabetes among people living with HIV in South Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

HIV has become a manageable chronic condition due to the success and scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Globally, South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) and research evidence indicates that countries with the highest burden of PLHIV have a substantial burden of obesity, hypertension (HPT) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). We sought to summarize the burden of these three common NCDs among PLHIV in South Africa.

METHODS

In this systematic review, multiple databases were searched for articles reporting on the prevalence of obesity, HPT, and T2D among PLHIV in South Africa published since journal inception until March 2022. A meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models to obtain pooled prevalence estimates of the three NCDs. Heterogeneity was assessed using X2 test on Cochran's Q statistic.

RESULTS

We included 32 studies, with 19, 22 and 18 studies reporting the prevalence of obesity, HPT, and T2D among PLHIV, respectively. The overall prevalence of obesity, HPT, and T2D was 23.2% [95% CI 17.6; 29.9], 25.5% [95% CI 15.6; 38.7], and 6.1% [95% CI 3.8; 9.7] respectively. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher among women (P = 0.034) compared to men, however the prevalence of HPT and T2D did not differ by sex. The prevalence of each of the three NCDs did not differ significantly between rural, urban, and peri-urban areas. The prevalence of obesity and T2D was higher in studies conducted between 2013 and 2022 compared to studies conducted between 2000 and 2012, while the prevalence of HPT was higher between 2000 and 2012 compared to between 2013 and 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that South Africa is experiencing a syndemic of NCDs among people PLHIV highlighting the need to increase cost-effective interventions and management strategies that involve integrated HIV and NCD care in the South African setting.

The Burden of Hypertension in HIV-Infected Adults on Retroviral Therapy in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background and objective The global HIV epidemic has evolved in the past 30 years with a decline in mortality and morbidity and improved survival since the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, this has brought on new challenges through the emergence of non-communicable disease (NCD) as a pandemic at par with, if not more serious than, HIV, and patients well maintained on ART are now faced with the increased risk of developing NCDs such as hypertension, which also require lifelong therapy. This study was designed to determine the burden of hypertension in patients under HIV care in Masvingo province, Zimbabwe. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted in six districts of Masvingo province based on the data collected from the electronic Patient Monitoring System (ePMS), along with an analysis of secondary data. Of the 94,821 records gathered, 877 met the inclusion criteria to be included in the study. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and Stata statistical software and statistical analysis was performed using the χ2 test. Results The study revealed a hypertension prevalence of 7.64% among the 877 patients analyzed and the independent risk factors for the development of hypertension were determined to be the age of patients, with a one-year increase in age resulting in an 8% increase in the risk of developing hypertension, and the duration on ART, with a one-year increase on ART duration increasing the risk of hypertension by 27%, and an increase in BMI by a factor of 1 increasing the risk of getting hypertension by 9%. Conclusion Our findings showed that there are patients who have both hypertension and HIV on ART care, and they would need to be managed for both. There is a need for improved data collection of important variables that improve the quality of care of clients. Clinical management of HIV needs to evolve with the evolving needs of patients and NCD care has to be factored in.

Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, Control of Hypertension, and Availability of Hypertension Services for Patients Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is faced with a dual burden of hypertension and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In this review we sought to determine the prevalence, awareness, and control of hypertension among persons living with HIV (PLHIV), and the availability of hypertension services at the HIV care points in SSA. We searched the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane library, Global index Medicus, African Journal online, and WHO Institutional Repository for Information Sharing (IRIS) for studies on the epidemiology of hypertension, and hypertension services for PLHIV in SSA. Twenty-six articles were identified for the review, with 150,886 participants; weighted mean of age 37.5 years and female proportion of 62.6%. The pooled prevalence was 19.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 16.6%, 22.5%); hypertension awareness was 28.4% (95% CI, 15.5%, 41.3%), and hypertension control was 13.4% (95% CI, 4.7%, 22.1%). HIV-related factors like CD4 count, viremia, and antiretroviral therapy regimen were not consistently associated with prevalent hypertension. However, high body mass index (BMI) above 25 kg/m² [odds ratio: 1.64, 95% CI (1.26, 2.02)] and age above 45 years [odds ratio: 1.44, 95% CI (1.08, 1.79)] were associated with prevalent hypertension. Even when PLHIV on ART were more likely to be screened for hypertension and monitored, there was infrequent screening and treatment of hypertension in most HIV clinics. Most studies recommended integrating of HIV and hypertension services. We report a high prevalence of hypertension in a relatively young population of PLHIV with suboptimal screening, treatment, and control of hypertension. We recommend strategies to integrate HIV and hypertension services.

Cardiovascular diseases in Africa in the twenty-first century: Gaps and priorities going forward

In 2015, the United Nations set important targets to reduce premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths by 33% by 2030. Africa disproportionately bears the brunt of CVD burden and has one of the highest risks of dying from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide. There is currently an epidemiological transition on the continent, where NCDs is projected to outpace communicable diseases within the current decade. Unchecked increases in CVD risk factors have contributed to the growing burden of three major CVDs-hypertension, cardiomyopathies, and atherosclerotic diseases- leading to devastating rates of stroke and heart failure. The highest age standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) due to hypertensive heart disease (HHD) were recorded in Africa. The contributory causes of heart failure are changing-whilst HHD and cardiomyopathies still dominate, ischemic heart disease is rapidly becoming a significant contributor, whilst rheumatic heart disease (RHD) has shown a gradual decline. In a continent where health systems are traditionally geared toward addressing communicable diseases, several gaps exist to adequately meet the growing demand imposed by CVDs. Among these, high-quality research to inform interventions, underfunded health systems with high out-of-pocket costs, limited accessibility and affordability of essential medicines, CVD preventive services, and skill shortages. Overall, the African continent progress toward a third reduction in premature mortality come 2030 is lagging behind. More can be done in the arena of effective policy implementation for risk factor reduction and CVD prevention, increasing health financing and focusing on strengthening primary health care services for prevention and treatment of CVDs, whilst ensuring availability and affordability of quality medicines. Further, investing in systematic country data collection and research outputs will improve the accuracy of the burden of disease data and inform policy adoption on interventions. This review summarizes the current CVD burden, important gaps in cardiovascular medicine in Africa, and further highlights priority areas where efforts could be intensified in the next decade with potential to improve the current rate of progress toward achieving a 33% reduction in CVD mortality.

Prevalence of Clinical Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Among HIV Infected Patients on Anti-Retroviral Treatment in a Tertiary Hospital in Ethiopia

Background

Anti-retroviral treatment has improved mortality of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients, which is offset by an increasing burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Data regarding prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors in HIV infected patients in Ethiopia are very scarce. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of CVD risks and associated factors in patients with HIV.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 333 patients with HIV infection, using a modified World Health Organization’s stepwise approach to surveillance questionnaire. Anthropometric and blood pressure measurement was done along with biochemical studies. Cardiovascular risk was estimated using Framingham risk score. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association between cardiovascular risks and associated factors, with a p-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 45 years, and 69.2% were females. Most (80.9%) of the participants had viral load below 50 copies/mL and the mean CD4 count was 579 cells/mm³. Dyslipidemia was the most common risk factor identified in 69.4%, followed by abnormal fasting blood glucose (≥100 mg/dL) in 36.8%. Hypertension was diagnosed in 23.8%, while 22.8% and 11.1% had metabolic syndrome and obesity, respectively. Framingham risk score was low in 95.9%. Male gender, increasing age, high body mass index and previous ART regimen being tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, lamivudine and nevirapine increased CVD risk factors.

Conclusion

Traditional cardiovascular risk factors were high in the population studied. There is a need to raise awareness about the risk factors, and patients should have timely follow-up and care.

Improved hypertension control at six months using an adapted WHO HEARTS-based implementation strategy at a large urban HIV clinic in Uganda

OBJECTIVES

To adapt a World Health Organization HEARTS-based implementation strategy for hypertension (HTN) control at a large urban HIV clinic in Uganda and determine six-month HTN and HIV outcomes among a cohort of adult persons living with HIV (PLHIV).

METHODS

Our implementation strategy included six elements: health education, medication adherence, and lifestyle counseling; routine HTN screening; task shifting of HTN treatment; evidence-based HTN treatment protocol; consistent supply of HTN medicines free to patients; and inclusion of HTN-specific monitoring and evaluation tools. We conducted a pre-post study from October 2019 to March 2020 to determine the effect of this strategy on HTN and HIV outcomes at baseline and six months. Our cohort comprised adult PLHIV diagnosed with HTN who made at least one clinic visit within two months prior to study onset.

FINDINGS

We enrolled 1,015 hypertensive PLHIV. The mean age was 50.1 ± 9.5 years and 62.6% were female. HTN outcomes improved between baseline and six months: mean systolic BP (154.3 ± 20.0 to 132.3 ± 13.8 mmHg, p < 0.001); mean diastolic BP (97.7 ± 13.1 to 85.3 ± 9.5 mmHg, p < 0.001) and proportion of patients with controlled HTN (9.3% to 74.1%, p < 0.001). The HTN care cascade also improved: treatment initiation (13.4% to 100%), retention in care (16.2% to 98.5%), monitoring (16.2% to 98.5%), and BP control among those initiated on HTN treatment (2.2% to 75.2%). HIV cascade steps remained high (> 95% at baseline and six months) and viral suppression was unchanged (98.7% to 99.2%, p = 0.712). Taking ART for more than two years and HIV viral suppression were independent predictors of HTN control at six months.

CONCLUSIONS

A HEARTS-based implementation strategy at a large, urban HIV center facilitates integration of HTN and HIV care and improves HTN outcomes while sustaining HIV control. Further implementation research is needed to study HTN/HIV integration in varied clinical settings among diverse populations.

Prevalence and control of hypertension among people living with HIV receiving care at a Nigerian hospital

INTRODUCTION

with the introduction of newer and safer antiretroviral drugs, HIV positive persons are now living longer. Consequently, cardiovascular diseases associated with ageing and chronic low grade inflammation due to the presence of the virus are increasingly found in this population. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and control of hypertension among people living with HIV (PLHIV) receiving care at a Nigerian hospital.

METHODS

this cross-sectional study was conducted as part of the Patient´s HIV Knowledge Questionnaire (PHKQ) validation study among HIV positive outpatients at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Hypertension was self-reported and confirmed by a documented physician diagnosis in the patient´s case notes and/or self-reported use of antihypertensive medication. For each participant, the average of two close blood pressure (BP) measurements obtained using an automatic upper arm BP monitor was taken as the BP. Hypertension control was defined as SBP <140 mmHg and DBP <90 mmHg. Data were analysed using the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) v.21.0. Results were considered significant at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

prevalence of hypertension among PLHIV was 24.9%. Age (OR = 1.112, CI = 1.074 - 1.151, p < 0.001), body mass index (OR = 1.087, CI = 1.024 - 1.154, p = 0.004) and duration on antiretroviral therapy (OR = 1.169, CI = 1.090 - 1.254, p < 0.001) significantly predicted hypertension. Only 19 (24.4%) participants had controlled hypertension.

CONCLUSION

hypertension is common among PLHIV seeking care at a Nigerian hospital. However, its control remains suboptimal. Regular screening for hypertension, its appropriate treatment and optimal control are essential in PLHIV.

Hypertension care cascade at a large urban HIV clinic in Uganda: a mixed methods study using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation for Behavior change (COM-B) model

BACKGROUND

Persons living with HIV (PLHIV) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) have a high prevalence of hypertension (HTN) and increased risk of mortality from cardiovascular diseases. HTN and HIV care integration is recommended in Uganda, though its implementation has lagged. In this study, we sought to analyze the HTN and HIV care cascades and explore barriers and facilitators of HTN/HIV integration within a large HIV clinic in urban Uganda.

METHODS

We conducted an explanatory sequential mixed methods study at Mulago ISS clinic in Kampala, Uganda. We determined proportions of patients in HTN and HIV care cascade steps of screened, diagnosed, initiated on treatment, retained, and controlled. Guided by the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behavior (COM-B) model, we then conducted semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with healthcare providers (n = 13) and hypertensive PLHIV (n = 32). We coded the qualitative data deductively and analyzed the data thematically categorizing them as themes that influenced HTN care positively or negatively. These denoted barriers and facilitators, respectively.

RESULTS

Of 15,953 adult PLHIV, 99.1% were initiated on ART, 89.5% were retained in care, and 98.0% achieved control (viral suppression) at 1 year. All 15,953 (100%) participants were screened for HTN, of whom 24.3% had HTN. HTN treatment initiation, 1-year retention, and control were low at 1.0%, 15.4%, and 5.0%, respectively. Barriers and facilitators of HTN/HIV integration appeared in all three COM-B domains. Barriers included low patient knowledge of HTN complications, less priority by patients for HTN treatment compared to ART, sub-optimal provider knowledge of HTN treatment, lack of HTN treatment protocols, inadequate supply of anti-hypertensive medicines, and lack of HTN care performance targets. Facilitators included patients' and providers' interest in HTN/HIV integration, patients' interest in PLHIV peer support, providers' knowledge and skills for HTN screening, optimal ART adherence counseling, and availability of automated BP machines.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of HTN among PLHIV is high, but the HTN care cascade is sub-optimal in this successful HIV clinic. To close these gaps, models of integrated HTN/HIV care are urgently needed. These findings provide a basis for designing contextually appropriate interventions for HTN/HIV integration in Uganda and other low- and middle-income countries.

Prevalence and correlates of hypertension in HIV-positive adults from the Livingstone Central Hospital, Zambia

Introduction

HIV-infection and treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART) are risk factors for the development of hypertension, which is more prevalent in people living with HIV compared with the general population. Although there is a shift to Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor (INSTI)-based ART across the sub-Saharan Africa, there is limited information with regard to INSTIs and hypertension association in this region, making this, a critical question to address. Hence, the study aimed to determine the relationship between hypertension and ART regimen in people living with HIV.

Methods

this was a cross-sectional study conducted at the Livingstone Central Hospital, southern province of Zambia. This study utilized programmatic data. Demographic and clinical data of 348 persons living with HIV who had been on ART for more than 2 years was abstracted in the adult ART database registry. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analyses of data.

Results

prevalence of hypertension was 18.4% (n=64). Hypertensives were older than normotensives with median (interquartile range) age of 55 (49, 61) and 46 (41, 52), respectively. At multivariate analysis, age (aOR: 1.07, 95% CI 1.04-1.11; p = 0.001) and body mass index (aOR: 1.10, 95% CI 1.04-1.16; p = 0.002) were positively associated with hypertension. Participants on dolutegravir based regimen were 2 times (aOR: 2.44, 95% CI 1.22-4.86; p = 0.01) more likely to be hypertensive compared to those on non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (efavirenz or nevirapine).

Conclusion

we confirm that increasing age, body mass index (BMI) and use of dolutegravir are risk factors for hypertension. Close monitoring for persons with HIV with these known risk factors is required.

Hypertension among people living with HIV/AIDS in Cameroon: A cross-sectional analysis from Central Africa International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) success has led people to live longer with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) and thus be exposed to increasing risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Hypertension (HTN), the biggest contributor to CVD burden, is a growing concern among PLWH. The current report describes the prevalence and predictors of HTN among PLWH in care in Cameroon.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included all PLWH aged 20 years and above who received care between 2016 and 2019 at one of the three Central Africa International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (CA-IeDEA) sites in Cameroon (Bamenda, Limbe, and Yaoundé). HTN was defined as blood pressure (BP) ≥140/90 mm Hg or self-reported use of antihypertensive medication. Logistic regressions models examined the relationship between HTN and clinical characteristics, and HIV-related factors.

Results

Among 9,839 eligible PLWH, 66.2% were women and 25.0% had prevalent HTN [age-standardized prevalence 23.9% (95% CI: 22.2–25.6)], among whom 28 (1.1%) were on BP lowering treatment, and 6 of those (21.4%) were at target BP levels. Median age (47.4 vs. 40.5 years), self-reported duration of HIV infection (5.1 vs 2.8 years years), duration of ART exposure (4.7 vs 2.3 years), and CD4 count (408 vs 359 cell/mm³) were higher in hypertensives than non-hypertensives (all p<0.001). Age and body mass index (BMI) were independently associated with higher prevalent HTN risk. PLWH starting ART had a 30% lower risk of prevalent HTN, but this advantage disappeared after a cumulative 2-year exposure to ART. There was no significant association between other HIV predictive characteristics and HTN.

Conclusion

About a quarter of these Cameroonian PLWH had HTN, driven among others by age and adiposity. Appropriate integration of HIV and NCDs services is needed to improve early detection, treatment and control of common comorbid NCD risk factors like hypertension and safeguard cardiovascular health in PLWH.

Current co-morbidities burden in patients living with HIV in low- and middle-income countries

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The present review aims to decipher common co-morbidities faced by people living with HIV in low- to middle-income countries, and in particular the sub-Saharan region, which hosts the majority of the HIV burden worldwide.

RECENT FINDINGS

Well-controlled chronic HIV disease is strongly associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. This is partly due to the natural aging process, however recent studies show that using antiretroviral therapy as well as the HIV disease itself may be predisposing factors to the development of cardiovascular diseases, creating a new burden for healthcare facilities in the region. Furthermore, newly completed studies assessing inflammation marker albuminuria and age-related syndrome frailty have been found in a higher prevalence than in non-HIV people, with increased morbidity and mortality.

SUMMARY

As antiretroviral medication continues to be well supplied in the region and well tolerated by patients living with HIV, this group is now reckoning with cardiovascular ailments faced by all ageing population therefore there is a need for cardiovascular care systems to be better integrated within the existing, well-performing HIV care cascade to address this burden.

An Emerging Syndemic of Smoking and Cardiopulmonary Diseases in People Living with HIV in Africa

BACKGROUND

African countries have the highest number of people living with HIV (PWH). The continent is home to 12% of the global population, but accounts for 71% of PWH globally. Antiretroviral therapy has played an important role in the reduction of the morbidity and mortality rates for HIV, which necessitates increased surveillance of the threats from pernicious risks to which PWH who live longer remain exposed. This includes cardiopulmonary comorbidities, which pose significant public health and economic challenges. A significant contributor to the cardiopulmonary comorbidities is tobacco smoking. Indeed, globally, PWH have a 2-4-fold higher utilization of tobacco compared to the general population, leading to endothelial dysfunction and atherogenesis that result in cardiopulmonary diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and coronary artery disease. In the context of PWH, we discuss (1) the current trends in cigarette smoking and (2) the lack of geographically relevant data on the cardiopulmonary conditions associated with smoking; we then review (3) the current evidence on chronic inflammation induced by smoking and the potential pathways for cardiopulmonary disease and (4) the multifactorial nature of the syndemic of smoking, HIV, and cardiopulmonary diseases. This commentary calls for a major, multi-setting cohort study using a syndemics framework to assess cardiopulmonary disease outcomes among PWH who smoke.

CONCLUSION

We call for a parallel program of implementation research to promote the adoption of evidence-based interventions, which could improve health outcomes for PWH with cardiopulmonary diseases and address the health inequities experienced by PWH in African countries.

Exploring barriers and facilitators to integrated hypertension-HIV management in Ugandan HIV clinics using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR)

BACKGROUND

Persons living with HIV (PLHIV) receiving antiretroviral therapy have increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Integration of services for hypertension (HTN), the primary CVD risk factor, into HIV clinics is recommended in Uganda. Our prior work demonstrated multiple gaps in implementation of integrated HTN care along the HIV treatment cascade. In this study, we sought to explore barriers to and facilitators of integrating HTN screening and treatment into HIV clinics in Eastern Uganda.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative study at three HIV clinics with low, intermediate, and high HTN care cascade performance, which we classified based on our prior work. Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), we conducted semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with health services managers, healthcare providers, and hypertensive PLHIV (n = 83). Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Three qualitative researchers used the deductive (CFIR-driven) method to develop relevant codes and themes. Ratings were performed to determine valence and strengths of each CFIR construct regarding influencing HTN/HIV integration.

RESULTS

Barriers to HTN/HIV integration arose from six CFIR constructs: organizational incentives and rewards, available resources, access to knowledge and information, knowledge and beliefs about the intervention, self-efficacy, and planning. The barriers include lack of functional BP machines, inadequate supply of anti-hypertensive medicines, additional workload to providers for HTN services, PLHIV's inadequate knowledge about HTN care, sub-optimal knowledge, skills and self-efficacy of healthcare providers to screen and treat HTN, and inadequate planning for integrated HTN/HIV services.Relative advantage of offering HTN and HIV services in a one-stop centre, simplicity (non-complex nature) of HTN/HIV integrated care, adaptability, and compatibility of HTN care with existing HIV services are the facilitators for HTN/HIV integration. The remaining CFIR constructs were non-significant regarding influencing HTN/HIV integration.

CONCLUSION

Using the CFIR, we have shown that while there are modifiable barriers to HTN/HIV integration, HTN/HIV integration is of interest to patients, healthcare providers, and managers. Improving access to HTN care among PLHIV will require overcoming barriers and capitalizing on facilitators using a health system strengthening approach. These findings are a springboard for designing contextually appropriate interventions for HTN/HIV integration in low- and middle-income countries.

Tobacco smoking and associated factors in human immunodeficiency virus-infected adults attending human immunodeficiency virus clinics in the Western Cape province, South Africa

Background

In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals, smoking increases both HIV-related and non-related negative health outcomes.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and associations of smoking in HIV-infected adults receiving antiretroviral therapy at public healthcare facilities in the Western Cape province, South Africa.

Methods

Participants comprised 827 HIV-infected patients, who were > 18 years old and randomly selected from 17 HIV healthcare facilities. Self-reported smoking was defined as smoking tobacco daily or occasionally. Serum cotinine levels confirmed smoking status.

Results

Participants included 653 women and 174 men. The overall mean (standard deviation [SD]) age was 38.9 (9.0) years, 41.1 (8.9) years in men and 37.7 (8.9) years in women (p ˂ 0.001). The median diagnosed duration of HIV infection was 5 years. Smoking prevalence was 22% overall, and 26% in men and 21% in women (p = 0.022). The prevalence of former smoking was 14%. About a quarter of participants (185/751; 24.6%) had serum cotinine levels > 100 mg/mL with similar prevalence of high levels across smoking status (current smokers: 27.2%, former smokers: 29.6% and never smokers: 22.7%, p = 0.564) and did not vary by age, gender, cluster of differentiation 4 count or known duration of HIV. There was no agreement between self-reports and cotinine levels at ranking smoking exposure.

Conclusions

Prevalence of current tobacco smoking in HIV-infected patients on care is within the range of that in the general population. This highlights the potential missed opportunity or challenges of co-addressing smoking cessation in individuals already in regular contact with the health system.

Fixed dose drug combinations - are they pharmacoeconomically sound? Findings and implications especially for lower- and middle-income countries

Introduction: There are positive aspects regarding the prescribing of fixed dose combinations (FDCs) versus prescribing the medicines separately. However, these have to be balanced against concerns including increased costs and their irrationality in some cases. Consequently, there is a need to review their value among lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs) which have the greatest prevalence of both infectious and noninfectious diseases and issues of affordability.Areas covered: Review of potential advantages, disadvantages, cost-effectiveness, and availability of FDCs in high priority disease areas in LMICs and possible initiatives to enhance the prescribing of valued FDCs and limit their use where there are concerns with their value.Expert commentary: FDCs are valued across LMICs. Advantages include potentially improved response rates, reduced adverse reactions, increased adherence rates, and reduced costs. Concerns include increased chances of drug:drug interactions, reduced effectiveness, potential for imprecise diagnoses and higher unjustified prices. Overall certain FDCs including those for malaria, tuberculosis, and hypertension are valued and listed in the country's essential medicine lists, with initiatives needed to enhance their prescribing where currently low prescribing rates. Proposed initiatives include robust clinical and economic data to address the current paucity of pharmacoeconomic data. Irrational FDCs persists in some countries which are being addressed.

Hypertension in HIV-Infected Patients Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in Northeast Ethiopia

Background

With prolonged survival and aging of persons with HIV on combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), hypertension has emerged as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality globally. However, little is known about the burden of this comorbid condition among adults living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with hypertension among HIV-infected patients receiving ART in Northeast Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the ART clinic of Dessie Referral Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia, between January and May 2018. HIV-infected patients who were on ART for at least 12 months were included in the study. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected from each participant. Hypertension was defined as a systolic blood pressure (BP) of ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP of ≥90 mmHg or a reported use of antihypertensive medication. Univariable and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors associated with hypertension.

Results

A total of 408 patients were studied with a mean (±SD) age of 37 ± 10.3 years, and 66.9% were female. The prevalence of hypertension was 29.7% (95% CI, 25.3–35.0%). Nearly 75% of the patients with hypertension were previously undiagnosed. In a univariate analysis, older age, male gender, a family history of hypertension, duration of HIV infection, duration on ART, high body mass index, low CD4 count, diabetes, and renal impairment were associated with hypertension. Multivariate analysis revealed older age (AOR = 2.08; 95% CI, 1.13–3.83), male gender (AOR = 1.64; 95% CI, 1.01–2.65), longer duration on ART (AOR = 1.91; 95% CI, 1.14–3.20), high body mass index (AOR = 3.32; 95% CI, 1.13–9.77), and diabetes (AOR = 2.76; 95% CI, 1.29–5.89) as independent risk factors of hypertension.

Conclusions

Hypertension is highly prevalent among HIV-infected patients on ART attending our clinic in Northeast Ethiopia but is mostly undiagnosed. These findings highlight the need for integrating hypertension management into routine HIV care to prevent adverse outcomes and improve health of people living with HIV on ART.

Prevalence of hypertension and cardiovascular risk factors among long-term AIDS survivors: A report from the field

HIV infection is associated with increased risk and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet little is known about the prevalence of CVD risk factors among long-term AIDS survivors in resource-limited settings. Using routinely collected data, we conducted a retrospective study to describe the prevalence of CVD risk factors among a cohort of HIV-infected patients followed for over 10 years in Port-au Prince, Haiti. This cohort includes 910 adults who initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) between 2003 and 2004 and remained in care between 2014 and 2016 when routine screening for CVD risk factors was implemented at a large clinic in Haiti. A total of 397 remained in care ≥10 years and received screening. At ART initiation, 59% were female, median age was 38 years (IQR 33-44), and median CD4 count was 117 cells/mm3 (IQR 34-201). Median follow-up time from ART initiation was 12.1 years (IQR 11.7-12.7). At screening, median CD4 count was 574 cells/mm3 (IQR 378-771), and 84% (282 of 336 screened) had HIV-1 RNA < 1000 copies/mL. Seventy-four percent of patients had at least 1 risk factor including 58% (224/385) with hypertension, 8% (24/297) diabetes, 43% (119/275) hypercholesterolemia, 8% (20/248) active smoking, and 10% (25/245) obesity. Factors associated with hypertension were age (adjusted OR 1.06, P < .001) and weight at screening (adjusted OR 1.02, P = .019). Long-term AIDS survivors have a high prevalence of CVD risk factors, primarily hypertension. Integration of cardiovascular screening and management into routine HIV care is needed to maximize health outcomes among aging HIV patients in resource-limited settings.

Cardiovascular risk factors among ART-experienced people with HIV in South Africa

INTRODUCTION

People with HIV (PWH) are at increased risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). Screening for CVD risk factors is recommended but not routine in South African HIV clinics. We sought to describe the prevalence of CVD risk factors among antiretroviral treatment (ART)-experienced patients in South Africa.

METHODS

We performed a prospective, observational cross-sectional study of PWH (>21 years, excluding pregnant women) on ART in South Africa. We interviewed patients regarding CVD risk factors, and obtained two blood pressure (BP) measurements and random/fasting glucose via a point-of-care glucometer. Standardized chart reviews provided individuals' HIV-specific data. We defined hypertension as: self-reported use of antihypertensives or mean systolic BP (SBP) ≥140 mmHg or diastolic BP (DBP) ≥90 mmHg (Stage 1) or SBP ≥160 mmHg or DBP ≥100 mmHg (Stage 2). We defined diabetes as self-reported use of insulin/oral hypoglycaemics or fasting (random) glucose ≥7.0 (≥11.1) mmol. We obtained risk ratios (RR) for hypertension from a multivariable log-binomial regression model, adjusting for age, sex and diabetes.

RESULTS

From March 2015 to February 2016, 458 participants enrolled with median age 38 years (interquartile range (IQR) 33 to 44 years) and median CD4 466/μL (IQR 317 to 638/μL); 78% were women. Participants were on ART for a median of four years, with 33% on ART ≥6 years. Almost a quarter (106/458) met the study definition for hypertension, of whom 45/106 (42%) were previously diagnosed, 23/45 (51%) were on medication and 4/23 (17%) were controlled. Eight participants had asymptomatic hypertensive urgency (BP≥180/110 mmHg). Of the 458 participants, 26 (6%) met the study definition for diabetes, half of whom (13/26) were already diagnosed; 11/13 (85%) were on treatment, of whom 4/11 (36%) had normal glucose. Age was the only significant predictor of hypertension (RR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.03 to 1.06, p < 0.0001) in the multivariable model.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertension and diabetes were prevalent among PWH prescribed ART in South Africa with less than half diagnosed, and still fewer treated and controlled. Hypertension was independently associated with age but not with HIV-specific factors. Screening for and treatment of CVD risk factors could decrease future morbidity and mortality, especially as this population ages.