Antiretroviral therapy exposure and incidence of diabetes mellitus in the Women's Interagency HIV Study

Association of Androgen Hormones, Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin, and the Menopausal Transition With Incident Diabetes Mellitus in Women With and Without HIV

BACKGROUND

HIV is associated with alterations in androgen hormone levels and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in women. Higher SHBG has been associated with a lower risk of diabetes in the general population, but the contribution of HIV, androgen hormones, SHBG, and menopausal phase to diabetes is unclear.

METHODS

From April 2003 through February 2020, 896 women with HIV (WWH) and 343 women without HIV (WWOH) from the Women's Interagency HIV Study with morning total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), and SHBG levels were followed to assess for incident diabetes. Parametric regression models were used with age as the time scale and relative times (RT) as the measure of association of hormone level and menopausal phase with incident diabetes. Analyses incorporated time-dependent androgen hormone, SHBG levels, and menopausal phase and were adjusted for race/ethnicity, enrollment year, smoking status, BMI, hepatitis C virus status, and HIV-related factors.

RESULTS

In total, 128 (14%) WWH and 47 (14%) WWOH developed diabetes. In WWH, a doubling of SHBG and DHEAS were associated with a 7% (RT = 1.07 [95% CI: 0.82 to 1.40] and 15% (RT = 1.15 [95% CI: 0.95 to 1.39]) longer time to diabetes, respectively; in WWOH, a doubling of SHBG and DHEAS were associated with 84% (RT = 1.84 [95% CI: 0.89 to 3.82]) and 41% (RT= 1.41 [95% CI: 0.82 to 2.44]) longer times to diabetes. Total testosterone was not associated. In WWH, later menopausal phase was associated with shorter times to diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite alterations in androgen hormone and SHBG levels in HIV, regardless of HIV status, higher SHBG and DHEAS were associated with nonstatistically significant slower progression to diabetes. The menopausal transition may be a better hormonal indicator of diabetes risk in WWH.

HIV and type 2 diabetes: An evolving story

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes is widely reported to be more common in people living with HIV (PLWH). Much of the data supporting this originated during the earlier HIV era. The perceived increased risk of type 2 diabetes is reflected in HIV clinical guidelines that recommend screening for diabetes in PLWH on anti-retroviral therapy (ART). However, international HIV clinical guidelines do not agree on the best marker of glycaemia to screen for diabetes. This stems from studies that suggest HbA1c underestimates glycaemia in PLWH.

METHODS

Within this review we summarise the literature surrounding the association of HIV and type 2 diabetes and how this has changed over time. We also present the evidence on HbA1c discrepancy in PLWH.

CONCLUSION

We suggest there is no basis to any international guidelines to restrict HbA1c based on HIV serostatus. We recommend, using the current evidence, that PLWH should be screened annually for diabetes in keeping with country specific guidance. Finally, we suggest future work to elucidate phenotype and natural history of type 2 diabetes in PLWH across all populations.

Incident diabetes in course of antiretroviral therapy

OBJECTIVE

Recent reports of excessive weight gain in people with HIV (PWH) have raised increasing concerns on the possible increase of diabetes mellitus (DM) risk in course of integrase inhibitors (INSTIs) treatment. In this study, we aimed at describing DM incidence in course of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and identifying the factors associated with new DM onset.

DESIGN

Observational prospective SCOLTA (Surveillance Cohort Long-Term Toxicity Antiretrovirals) cohort.

METHODS

All people enrolled in SCOLTA between January 2003 and November 2021 were included. Multivariable Cox regression yielded adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident DM.

RESULTS

4366 PWH were included, 72.6% male, with mean age 45.6 years, and median CD4 + 460 [interquartile range (IQR) 256-710] cells/mm 3 cells/mm 3 . During the follow up, 120 incident cases of DM occurred (1.26 cases/100 person year-follow up, 95% CI 1.05-1.50).Baseline weight, but not the amount of weight gain, resulted significantly correlated to diabetes incidence (aHR by 1 kg 1.03; 95% CI 1.01-1.04), as well as older age (aHR 1.03 by 1 year; 95% CI 1.01-1.06), being ART-experienced with detectable HIV RNA at study entry (aHR 2.27, 95% CI 1.48-3.49), having untreated high blood pressure (aHR 2.90; 95% CI 1.30-6.45) and baseline blood glucose >100 mg/dl (aHR 5.47; 95% CI 3.82-7.85). Neither the INSTI class nor individual antiretrovirals were associated with an increased risk of DM.

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline weight, but not weight gain or the ART class, was associated with incident DM in this observational cohort.

New onset type 2 diabetes mellitus risks with integrase strand transfer inhibitors-based regimens: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

The development of diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients taking integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) has raised concerns. It's critical because, in most guidelines, INSTIs are the preferred third agent at first-line regimens. This study investigates the excess risk of developing DM among people living with HIV (PWH) on INSTIs-based regimens compared to those with other combination antiretroviral therapies (cART).

Methods

A search from PubMed, clinicaltrials.gov, Latin America and Caribbean health sciences literature, Cochrane, and google scholar to retrieve case-control and cohort studies were done. The literature search was performed for studies from January 2007 to January 2021. Data were extracted from studies and pooled as risk ratios (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) using Stata 14 software. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO, ID: CRD42021230282.

Results

This review included ten studies, resulting in 62 400 participants. There was no significant difference in the incidence of DM between participants receiving INSTIs-based regimens versus other cARTs (RR 0.97, 95% CI: 0.92-1.03; participants = 50 958; studies = 4; I² = 86.8%, chi-square = 22.67). There is no statistically significant difference in DM among people treated with INSTIs-based regimens compared to those treated with boosted protease inhibitors (PIs)-based regimens (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.92-1.03; participants = 49 840; studies = 3; I² = 89.3%, chi-square = 18.65). DM incidence was lower in INSTIs-based regimens than in those using non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs)-based regimens (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.69-0.91; participants = 42 346; studies = 2; I² = 0%, chi-square = 0.18).

Conclusion

The present review shows a nonsignificant difference in the incidence of DM in patients receiving INSTIs-based regimens compared to other regimens. However, there was a lower incidence of DM in the INSTIs group compared to the NNRTIs-based and PIs compared to the NNRTIs-based. When the INSTIs drugs dolutegravir, raltegravir, and elvitegravir were compared, there was a lower incidence of DM in raltegravir compared with elvitegravir.

Diabetes in HIV: the Link to Weight Gain

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The burden of metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), is rising among persons with HIV (PWH) on antiretroviral therapy (ART). This increase coincides with an aging population and a greater proportion who are overweight/obese. This review summarizes the changing epidemic of T2DM on contemporary ART, the role of weight gain, and therapeutic options.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies confirm that PWH face an epidemic of obesity and T2DM, similar to the general population. Contemporary ART is associated with greater weight gain and may contribute to the risk of T2DM. Recent advances in medical weight loss therapy offer a way forward in the prevention and treatment of weight-associated T2DM. Weight gain is one of the biggest contributors to T2DM in PWH. Future studies on the role of adipose tissue distribution, adipose tissue function and clinical use of effective weight loss medications may change the paradigm of care for PWH.

Class-Based Antiretroviral Exposure and Cognition Among Women Living with HIV

Neurologic complications of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are common in treated individuals, and toxicity of certain antiretroviral therapies (ART) may contribute to cognitive impairment. We investigated exposures to specific ART and cognition among women living with HIV (WLWH). Virologically suppressed (viral load <200 copies/mL during at least two semi-annual visits) WLWH and age/race matched HIV-seronegative controls enrolled in the Women's Interagency HIV Study who completed at least two biennial cognitive assessments were included. Analysis of WLWH was restricted to those with exposure to the drug class of interest and a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) backbone. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate repeated measures of cognition over time in association with ART class exposure. Among 1,242 eligible WLWH, 20% (n = 247) had isolated drug exposure to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI), 18% (n = 219) to protease inhibitors (PIs), and 6% (n = 79) to integrase inhibitors with a NRTI backbone. Cognitive assessments were performed at a median of 3 biennial visits {IQR 2-4 visits}. At the index assessment, 21% of WLWH demonstrated global cognitive impairment versus 29% at their last cognitive assessment. In multivariable analyses adjusted for hypertension, depression, diabetes mellitus, history of AIDS-defining illness, alcohol use, number of medications, and time on ART, WLWH exposed to NNRTIs demonstrated verbal learning improvements (mean T-score change 1.3, p = .020) compared to other treated women. Compared to HIV-seronegative women, WLWH exposed to PIs had worse verbal learning (mean T-score difference -2.62, p = .002) and verbal memory performance (mean T-score difference -1.74, p = .032) at baseline. Compared to HIV-seronegative women, WLWH exposed to PIs had improvements in verbal learning (mean T-score slope difference 0.36, p = .025) and verbal memory (mean T-score slope difference 0.32, p = .042). The index T-score and slope of change in the T-score were similar among other treated groups and the HIV-seronegative group. We noted emerging trends in cognition in WLWH exposed to specific drug classes. Ongoing study of this relatively young group is important to characterize long-term cognitive outcomes and effect of antiretrovirals as treatment guidelines evolve.

Metabolic Consequences of Antiretroviral Therapy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review reports on published studies describing metabolic changes associated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) to treat HIV disease including a historical perspective of earlier ART agents, but with the main focus on newer ART agents currently in use.

RECENT FINDINGS

Studies from different countries around the world have shown that integrase inhibitor (INSTI)-based regimens as well as tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) are associated with weight gain, with women and people of black race at especially high risk. Some studies preliminarily suggest worsened metabolic outcomes associated with this weight gain including adverse effects on glucose homeostasis. Antiretroviral therapy can affect weight, adipose tissue, glucose, and lipids. As obesity is prevalent and increasing among people with HIV, awareness of risk factors for weight gain, including the ART medications associated with greater weight gain, are needed in order to inform prevention efforts. Further research is needed to better understand the long-term health consequences of INSTI- and TAF-associated weight increases.

Sex differences in type 2 diabetes mellitus prevalence among persons with HIV

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is more common among women with HIV (WWH) than men with HIV (MWH).

DESIGN

A cross-sectional analysis of a demographically heterogenous population-based sample of more than 64 million patients in the United States.

METHODS

Using the Explorys (IBM) database, compare the prevalence of T2DM among men and women without HIV and influence of HIV on T2DM by sex controlling for confounding factors.

RESULTS

From 19 182 775 persons included in the study, 39 485 were with HIV. Rates of obesity was higher among WWH than MWH (58 vs. 35%). Prevalence of T2DM among WWH was 23% compared with 16% among MWH (P < 0.001). In sex-stratified adjusted analysis, WWH had 1.31 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.24-1.38] times the odds of having T2DM than women without HIV. Women with HIV was associated with T2DM across all demographic subgroups. In contrast, no association between HIV and T2DM was observed among men (OR 1.01; 95% CI 0.98-1.05).

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that HIV confers a sex-specific increase in odds of T2DM among women but not men.

Impact of Combined Antiretroviral Therapy on Metabolic Syndrome Components in Adult People Living with HIV: A Literature Review

The development of metabolic derangements as a result of HIV treatment has been an important area of research since the introduction of zidovudine in the 1980's. Antiretroviral therapy has intensely evolved in the last three decades, with new drugs gradually incorporated into everyday clinical practice. With the life expectancy of people living with HIV rapidly approaching that of their HIV-negative counterparts, the influence of these antiretrovirals on the development of the components of the metabolic syndrome remains of major interest to clinicians and their patients. In this review, we aimed to discuss the impact of cART on components of the metabolic syndrome, i.e., weight, plasma lipid levels, plasma glucose levels, and blood pressure, describing the influence of cART classes and of individual antiretrovirals. We also aimed to outline the limitations of the research conducted to date and the remaining knowledge gaps in this area.

Incidence and associated factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus onset in the Brazilian HIV/AIDS cohort study

Background

People living with HIV (PLH) under combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Objective

We examined the incidence of T2DM, associated factors and mean time to outcome in PLH under cART.

Method

Data for this multicenter cohort study were obtained from PLH aged over 18, who started cART in 13 Brazilian sites from 2003 to 2013. Factors associated with incident T2DM were evaluated by Cox multiple regression models.

Results

A total of 6724 patients (30,997.93 person-years) were followed from January 2003 to December 2016. A T2DM incidence rate of 17.3/1000 person-years (95%CI 15.8-18.8) was observed. Incidence of isolated hypertriglyceridemia and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) were 84.3 (95%CI 81.1-87.6) and 14.5/1000 person-years (95%CI 13.2-15.9), respectively. Mean time to T2DM onset was 10.5 years (95%CI 10.3-10.6). Variables associated with incident T2DM were age 40-50 [Hazard Ratio (HR) 1.7, 95%CI 1.4-2.1] and ≥ 50 years (HR 2.4, 95%CI 1.9-3.1); obesity (HR 2.1, 95%CI 1.6-2.8); abnormal triglyceride/HDL-cholesterol ratio (HR 1.8, 95%CI 1.51-2.2). IFG predicted T2DM (HR 2.6, 95%CI 1.7-2.5) and occurred on average 3.3 years before diabetes onset. Exposure to stavudine for ≥ 2 years was independently associated with incident T2DM [HR 1.6, 95%CI 1.0-2.2).

Conclusion

Brazilian PLH under cART are at significant risk of developing T2DM and share risk factors for diabetes onset with the general population, such as older age, obesity, and having metabolic abnormalities at baseline. Moreover, stavudine use was independently associated with incident T2DM. Identifying PLH at a higher risk of T2DM can help caretakers trigger health promotion and establish specific targets for implementation of preventive measures.

Characteristics of the MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study: Opportunities for Research on Aging With HIV in the Longest US Observational Study of HIV

In 2019, the National Institutes of Health combined the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) and the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS) into the MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS). In this paper, participants who made a study visit during October 2018-September 2019 (targeted for MWCCS enrollment) are described by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) serostatus and compared with people living with HIV (PLWH) in the United States. Participants include 2,115 women and 1,901 men with a median age of 56 years (interquartile range, 48-63); 62% are PLWH. Study sites encompass the South (18%), the Mid-Atlantic/Northeast (45%), the West Coast (22%), and the Midwest (15%). Participant race/ethnicity approximates that of PLWH throughout the United States. Longitudinal data and specimens collected for 35 years (men) and 25 years (women) were combined. Differences in data collection and coding were reviewed, and key risk factor and comorbidity data were harmonized. For example, recent use of alcohol (62%) and tobacco (28%) are common, as are dyslipidemia (64%), hypertension (56%), obesity (42%), mildly or severely impaired daily activities (31%), depressive symptoms (28%), and diabetes (22%). The MWCCS repository includes serum, plasma, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, cell pellets, urine, cervicovaginal lavage samples, oral samples, B-cell lines, stool, and semen specimens. Demographic differences between the MACS and WIHS can confound analyses by sex. The merged MWCCS is both an ongoing observational cohort study and a valuable resource for harmonized longitudinal data and specimens for HIV-related research.

Incidence of diabetes mellitus among people living with and without HIV in British Columbia, Canada between 2001 and 2013: a longitudinal population-based cohort study

INTRODUCTION

People living with HIV (PLHIV) are increasingly at risk of age-related comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus (DM). While DM is associated with elevated mortality and morbidity, understanding of DM among PLHIV is limited. We assessed the incidence of DM among people living with and without HIV in British Columbia (BC), Canada, during 2001-2013.

METHODS

We used longitudinal data from a population-based cohort study linking clinical data and administrative health data. We included PLHIV who were antiretroviral therapy (ART) naïve at baseline, and 1:5 age-sex-matched persons without HIV. All participants had ≥5 years of historic data pre-baseline and ≥1 year(s) of follow-up. DM was identified using the BC Ministry of Health's definitions applied to hospitalisation, physician billing and drug dispensation datasets. Incident DM was identified using a 5-year run-in period. In addition to unadjusted incidence rates (IRs), we estimated adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRR) using Poisson regression and assessed annual trends in DM IRs per 1000 person years (PYs) between 2001 and 2013.

RESULTS

A total of 129 PLHIV and 636 individuals without HIV developed DM over 17 529 PYs and 88,672 PYs, respectively. The unadjusted IRs of DM per 1000 PYs were 7.4 (95% CI 6.2 to 8.8) among PLHIV and 7.2 (95% CI 6.6 to 7.8) for individuals without HIV. After adjustment for confounding, HIV serostatus was not associated with DM incidence (adjusted IRR: 1.03, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.27). DM incidence did not increase over time among PLHIV (Kendall trend test: p=0.9369), but it increased among persons without HIV between 2001 and 2013 (p=0.0136).

CONCLUSIONS

After adjustment, HIV serostatus was not associated with incidence of DM, between 2001 and 2013. Future studies should investigate the impact of ART on mitigating the potential risk of DM among PLHIV.

Stroke and HIV-associated neurological complications: A retrospective nationwide study

There is an increased risk of stroke and other neurological complications in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients with no large population-based studies in the literature. We aim to evaluate the prevalence of stroke, HIV-associated neurological complications, and identify risk factors associated with poor outcomes of stroke among HIV admissions in the United States. In the nationwide inpatient sample with adult HIV hospitalizations, patients with primary cerebrovascular disease (CeVDs) and HIV-associated neurological complications were identified by ICD-9-CM codes. We performed a retrospective study with weighted analysis to evaluate the prevalence of stroke and neurological complications and outcomes of stroke among HIV patients. We included 1,559,351 HIV admissions from 2003 to 2014, of which 22470 (1.4%) patients had CeVDs (transient ischemic attack [TIA]: 3240 [0.2%], acute ischemic stroke [AIS]: 14895 [0.93%], and hemorrhagic stroke [HS]: 4334 [0.27%]), 7781 (0.49%) had neurosyphilis, 29,925 (1.87%) meningitis, 39,190 (2.45%) cytomegalovirus encephalitis, 4699 (0.29%) toxoplasmosis, 9964 (0.62%) progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, and 142,910 (8.94%) epilepsy. There is increased overall prevalence trend for CeVDs (TIA: 0.17%-0.24%; AIS: 0.62%-1.29%; HS: 0.26%-0.31%; pTrend < .0001) from 2003 to 2014. Among HIV admissions, variables associated with AIS were neurosyphilis (odds ratio: 4.38; 95% confidence interval: 3.21-5.97), meningitis (4.87 [4.10-5.79]), and central nervous system tuberculosis (6.72 [3.85-11.71]). Toxoplasmosis [4.27 [2.34-7.76]), meningitis (2.91 [2.09-4.06)], and cytomegalovirus encephalitis (1.62 [1.11-2.37]) were associated with higher odds of HS compared to patients without HS. There was an increasing trend of CeVDs over time among HIV hospitalizations. HIV-associated neurological complications were associated with the risk of stroke, together with increased mortality, morbidity, disability, and discharge to long-term care facilities. Further research would clarify stroke risk factors in HIV patients to mitigate adverse outcomes.

Individual-Level and Clinic-Level Factors Associated With Achieving Glycemic Control in a Large Cohort of People With HIV in Care-Washington, DC

BACKGROUND

Optimal management of noncommunicable diseases, including diabetes mellitus (DM), is crucially important as people with HIV (PWH) live longer with antiretroviral therapy. Our objective was to assess patient-level and clinic-level factors associated with achieving hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ≤7.0% among PWH and DM.

SETTING

The DC Cohort, an observational clinical cohort of PWH, followed from 2011 to 2019 at 12 sites in Washington, DC.

METHODS

Among PWH with diagnosed DM and elevated HbA1c (>7.0%), we examined the association between achieving HbA1c ≤7.0% and demographic and clinical factors, including time-updated medication data, and clinic-level factors related to services and structure. A multilevel marginal extended Cox regression model was generated to identify factors associated with time to HbA1c ≤7.0%.

RESULTS

Over half (52.3%) of 419 participants achieved HbA1c ≤7.0%. Individual-level factors associated with HbA1c ≤7.0% included a diagnosis of DM after enrollment and a longer time since HIV diagnosis [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.65 and 1.13, P < 0.05 for both]. Attending a clinic with an endocrinologist was associated with the outcome [adjusted HR (aHR) = 1.41 95% confidence interval (CI): (1.01 to 1.97)]. In addition, comparing clinics that treat everyone, refer everyone or have a mix of treating and referring, showed an association between attending a clinic that treats everyone [aHR = 1.52 95% CI: (1.21 to 1.90)] or a clinic that refers everyone [aHR = 2.24 95% CI: (1.63 to 3.07)] compared with clinics with a mix in achieving glycemic control.

CONCLUSION

Multiple factors are associated with achieving glycemic control in an urban cohort of PWH. Determining if specific services or structures improve DM outcomes may improve health outcomes for PWH and DM.

Incident type 2 diabetes mellitus after initiation of common HIV antiretroviral drugs

OBJECTIVES

To describe the prevalence and incidence of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) and evaluate the association between antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation with dolutegravir (DTG), elvitegravir/cobicistat (EVG/c), raltegravir (RAL), or boosted darunavir (bDRV) and incident T2DM.

DESIGN

Longitudinal study based on electronic health records of 29 674 PLHIV from the Observational Pharmaco-Epidemiology Research and Analysis (OPERA) cohort.

METHODS

Calculate prevalence of prediabetes and T2DM at regimen initiation. Among PLHIV without prevalent disease, estimate prediabetes and T2DM incidence (Poisson regression) and association between regimen and incident T2DM (multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression). Analyses stratified by ART experience.

RESULTS

Among ART-naive and ART-experienced/suppressed PLHIV, the estimated prevalence of prediabetes was 8 and 11%; that of T2DM was 4 and 10%, respectively. The T2DM incidence rate was 9 per 1000 person-years [95% confidence interval (CI): 8-11] among ART-naive and 13 per 1000 person-years (95% CI: 12-15) among ART-experienced/suppressed PLHIV, with no statistically significant differences between regimens. Compared with DTG, no statistically significant association between T2DM risk and regimen was observed among ART-naive on EVG/c [adjusted hazard ratios: 0.70 (95% CI: 0.47-1.05)] or bDRV [0.53 (0.26-1.04)] and ART-experienced/suppressed on EVG/c [0.96 (0.70-1.33)], RAL [1.17 (0.70-1.96)] or bDRV [0.90 (0.57-1.42)].

CONCLUSION

No increased risk of T2DM was observed with EVG/c, RAL or bDRV compared with DTG in ART-naive and experienced PLHIV. However, despite a large cohort, there was a small number of events and differential risk cannot be excluded.

Management of infection among Medicare beneficiaries with HIV/AIDS: risk of diabetes with protease inhibitors and associated racial disparities using big data approach

Association between protease inhibitors (PI) and Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) patients is largely debated. This study examined the odds of developing T2DM among HIV/AIDS Medicare beneficiaries treated with PI and possible racial disparities in the odds. We performed a nested casecontrol study of Medicare database 2013-2017. We included HIV/AIDS positive beneficiaries who were enrolled continuously in Medicare Part A/B with no previous history of T2DM. PI-users were matched to non-PI users and non-anti-retroviral therapies (ART) users using a1:1 greedy propensity score (PS) matching . Multivariablee logistic regressions were performed to assess the odds of developing T2DM. The analysis included 2,353 HIV/AIDS beneficiaries. Matched samples were generated for PI vs. non-PI groups (n = 484) and PI vs. non-ART groups (n = 490). Compared to the non-PI group, the odds of developing T2DM were higher in PI-users (AOR: 1.76; 95% CI: 1.17-2.64), in Caucasian PI-users (AOR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.02-3.22) and in African-American PI-users (AOR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.03-3.36). Compared to the non-ART group, the odds of developing T2DM were higher in PI-users (AOR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.25-2.81), in Caucasian PI-users (AOR: 1.96; 95% CI: 1.14-3.39) and in African-American PI-users (AOR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.03-4.09). The use of PI is associated with higher odds of T2DM; odds were higher among African-Americans than Caucasians.

Prevalence and incidence of pre-diabetes and diabetes mellitus among people living with HIV in Ghana: Evidence from the EVERLAST Study

BACKGROUND

Available data from high-income countries suggest that people living with HIV (PLWH) have a four-fold higher risk of diabetes compared with HIV-negative people. In sub-Saharan Africa, with 80% of the global burden of HIV, there is a relative paucity of data on the burden and determinants of prevalent and incident dysglycaemia.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence and incidence of pre-diabetes (pre-DM) and overt diabetes mellitus (DM) among PLWH in a Ghanaian tertiary medical centre.

METHODS

We first performed a cross-sectional comparative analytical study involving PLWH on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) (n = 258), PLWH not on cART (n = 244) and HIV-negative individuals (n = 242). Diabetes, pre-DM and normoglycaemia were defined as haemoglobin A1C (HBA1c) > 6.5%, in the range 5.7-6.4% and < 5.7% respectively. We then prospectively followed up the PLWH for 12 months to assess rates of new-onset DM, and composite of new-onset DM and pre-DM. Multivariate logistic regression models were fitted to identify factors associated with dysglycaemia among PLWH.

RESULTS

The frequencies of DM among PLWH on cART, PLWH not on cART and HIV-negative individuals were 7.4%, 6.6% and 7.4% (P = 0.91), respectively, while pre-DM prevalence rates were 13.2%, 27.9% and 27.3%, respectively (P < 0.0001). Prevalent DM was independently associated with increasing age [adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) (aOR, 95% CI) = 1.82 (1.20-2.77) for each 10-year rise], male sex [aOR = 2.64 (1.20-5.80)] and log(triglyceride/HDL cholesterol) [aOR = 8.54 (2.53-28.83)]. Prevalent pre-DM was independently associated with being on cART [aOR (95% CI) = 0.35 (0.18-0.69)]. There were a total of 12 cases of incident DM over 359.25 person-years, giving 33.4/1000 person-years of follow-up (PYFU) (95% CI: 18.1-56.8/1000), and an rate of incident pre-DM of 212.7/1000 PYFU (95 CI: 164.5-270.9/1000). The two independent factors associated with new-onset DM were having pre-DM at enrolment [aOR = 6.27 (1.89-20.81)] and being established on cART at enrolment [aOR = 12.02 (1.48-97.70)].

CONCLUSIONS

Incidence rates of pre-DM and overt DM among Ghanaian PLWH on cART ranks among the highest in the literature. There is an urgent need for routine screening and a multidisciplinary approach to cardiovascular disease risk reduction among PLWH to reduce morbidity and mortality from the detrimental effects of dysglycaemia.

Comorbidity of HIV, hypertension, and diabetes and associated factors among people receiving antiretroviral therapy in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia

Background:

People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are facing an increased burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) comorbidity. There is, however, paucity of information on the magnitude of HIV-NCDs comorbidity, its associated factors, and how the health system is responding to the double burden in Ethiopia.

Objective:

To determine the magnitude of comorbidity between HIV and hypertension or diabetes and associated factors among HIV-positive adults receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia.

Methods:

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 560 randomly selected HIV-positive adults taking ART. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the data. A logistic regression model was fit to identify associated factors with comorbidity of HIV and NCDs.

Results:

The magnitude of comorbidity was 19.6% (95% confidence interval (CI): 16.0–23.0). Being older (55 and above years) adjusted odds ratio (AOR: 8.5; 95% CI: 3.2–15.1), taking second-line ART regimen containing tenofovir (AOR: 2.7; 95% CI: 1.3–5.6), and increased body mass index (BMI) ≥25 (AOR: 2.7; 95% CI: 1.2–6.5) were the factors associated with comorbidity. Participants reported that they were not managed in an integrated and coordinated manner.

Conclusions:

The magnitude of comorbidity among adults was high in the study area. Being older, second-line ART regimen and high BMI ≥25 increased the odds of having NCDs among HIV-positive adults. Targeted screening for the incidences of NCDs, addressing modifiable risk factors, and providing integrated care would help to improve the quality of life comorbid patients.

Rate of dyslipidemia higher among women living with HIV: A comparison of metabolic and cardiovascular health in a cohort to study aging in HIV

OBJECTIVES

Combination antiretroviral therapy has largely restored the lifespan of persons living with HIV. Data suggest early comorbidities of aging in this population. Past studies focused on men; limited data exist regarding the prevalence of dyslipidaemia in women living with HIV (WLWH). We investigated the prevalence of cardiometabolic abnormalities among WLWH and HIV-negative women in the Children and Women: Antiretrovirals and Markers of Aging (CARMA) cohort, and their relationships to cellular aging markers.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of nonpregnant female patients (156 WLWH and 133 HIV-negative controls, aged 12-69 years) enrolled in CARMA between 2013 and 2017. The Framingham risk score (FRS) and the prevalences of hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and dyslipideamia were determined using self-report, anthropometrics, chart review and laboratory data. Cellular aging was determined by assessing leukocyte telomere length and blood mitochondrial DNA content. Diagnoses were based on current Canadian guidelines and definitions.

RESULTS

HIV-infected status was associated with dyslipidaemia [odds ratio (OR) 2.89; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.69-5.01], but not diabetes, higher FRS, hypertension or metabolic syndrome. The median age was 43.5 [interquartile range (IQR) 36.8-50.9] years in WLWH and 46.2 (IQR 30.3-54.9) years in HIV-negative controls. WLWH were less likely to be menopausal or use alcohol, and more often had hepatitis C virus infection or a current or past smoking history. Lower mitochondrial DNA content was associated with metabolic syndrome; no other associations were noted between cardiometabolic abnormalities and markers of cellular aging.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite their relatively young age, almost two-thirds of WLWH had dyslipidaemia, a significantly greater proportion than in controls. Strategies to address dyslipidaemia and decrease smoking rates may improve long-term outcomes among WLWH.

Comorbidities of HIV infection: role of Nef-induced impairment of cholesterol metabolism and lipid raft functionality

Combination antiretroviral therapy has dramatically changed the outcome of HIV infection, turning it from a death sentence to a manageable chronic disease. However, comorbidities accompanying HIV infection, such as metabolic and cardio-vascular diseases, as well as cognitive impairment, persist despite successful virus control by combination antiretroviral therapy and pose considerable challenges to clinical management of people living with HIV. These comorbidities involve a number of pathological processes affecting a variety of different tissues and cells, making it challenging to identify a common cause(s) that would link these different diseases to HIV infection. In this article, we will present evidence that impairment of cellular cholesterol metabolism may be a common factor driving pathogenesis of HIV-associated comorbidities. Potential implications for therapeutic approaches are discussed.

Diabetes mellitus and its associated risk factors in patients with human immunodeficiency virus on anti-retroviral therapy at referral hospitals of Northwest Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

The use of highly active anti- retroviral therapy (HAART) as well as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) per se have been shown to be related with diabetes among patients living with HIV. There is limited evidence on the prevalence of diabetes among HIV-infected patients in developing countries like Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of diabetes among patients living with HIV/AIDS at referral hospitals of Northwest Ethiopia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

a hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted at referral hospitals of Northwest Ethiopia between February 2019 and April 2019. Using WHO stepwise approach, sociodemographic, behavioral and clinical data were collected from 407 included adult patients. Simple random sampling methods was used to select the study participants. Lipid profiles, fasting blood sugar as well as anthropometric indicators were also measured. SPSS version 25 was used for analysis of data; bivariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was performed.

RESULT

From a total of 415 patients living with HIV deemed eligible for inclusion, 407 with complete data were included in the final analysis giving a response rate of 98%. From 407 study subjects included in the analysis, 161 (39.6%) were men. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was found to be 8.8% (95% CI 6.05, 11.55). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age [AOR (95% CI) 1.04 (1.001,1.084), p < 0.05], educational status [AOR (95% CI) 6.27 (1.72, 22.85), p < 0.05, diploma; AOR (95% CI) 9.64 (2.57, 36.12), p < 0.05, degree and above], triglyceride level [AOR (95% CI) 1.007 (1.003, 1.010), p < 0.01] have shown statistically significant association with odds of diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of diabetes was notably high in patients living with HIV/AIDS. Factors such as increased age, educational status and higher level of serum triglyceride were found to contribute to this high prevalence of diabetes.

Recommended First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy Regimens and Risk of Diabetes Mellitus in HIV-Infected Adults in Resource-Limited Settings

Objective

The use of some antiretroviral drugs has been associated with a higher risk of diabetes mellitus (DM) in HIV-infected patients, but the risk associated with antiretroviral drug combinations remains unclear. We investigated the association between first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens, recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2016, and the risk of DM in adults.

Method

We selected all HIV-infected adults within the Thai National AIDS Program who started a first-line ART regimen consisting the following between October 2006 and September 2013: zidovudine+lamivudine+nevirapine; tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)+lamivudine+nevirapine; zidovudine+lamivudine+efavirenz; TDF+lamivudine/emtricitabine+efavirenz; zidovudine+lamivudine+ritonavir-boosted lopinavir (LPV/r); or TDF+lamivudine+LPV/r. Diagnosis of DM was defined as having at least 2 of the following characteristics: fasting plasma glucose ≥126 mg/dl, 2010 WHO ICD-10 codes E11-E14, or prescription of antidiabetic drugs. To identify ART regimens associated with DM, we used competing risks regression models that considered mortality without DM as a competing event and adjusted for sex, age, pancreas disease, and stratified by groups defined by a score summarizing the propensity to receive a specific first-line ART regimen.

Results

Data from 35 710 adults (49.1% male; median age, 35.0 years; median follow-up, 2.0 years) were included. In the multivariable analysis with zidovudine+lamivudine+nevirapine as the reference group, a higher risk of DM was observed with TDF+lamivudine/emtricitabine+efavirenz (adjusted sub-distribution hazard ratio [aSHR], 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3–1.9), zidovudine+lamivudine+efavirenz (aSHR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.7–2.3), and TDF+lamivudine+LPV/r (aSHR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.9–3.9).

Conclusions

Several of the WHO recommended ART regimens, particularly tenofovir + lamivudine +LPV/r and regimens containing efavirenz, may be associated with an increased risk of DM.

Diabetes mellitus and its associated factors among human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients on anti-retroviral therapy in Northeast Ethiopia

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and its associated factors among human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients on anti-retroviral therapy in Northeast Ethiopia.

Results

A facility based cross-sectional study was conducted among 408 HIV-infected adults (≥ 18 years old) attending an ART clinic in Northeast Ethiopia from January to March 30, 2018. The mean (± SD) age of studied patients was 37 ± 10.3 years, and 273 (66.9%) were female. Of the total participants, 36 (8.8%, 95% CI 6.4% to 11.8%) had diabetes and 61 (15.0%, 95% CI 11.5% to 18.6%) had impaired fasting glucose level (111–125 mg/dl). Only fourteen (3.4%) participants knew their diabetes status during data collection. In the multivariate analysis, older age (age > 45 years; AOR = 3.51, 95% CI 1.52–8.10, P = 0.003), a family history of diabetes (AOR = 6.46, 95% CI 3.36–21.29, P < 0.001), duration of ART (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI 1.16–6.17, P = 0.021), and hypertension (AOR = 2.62, 95% CI 1.20–5.72, P = 0.016) were independently associated with increased odds of diabetes. These results highlight the need for regular diabetes screening among HIV-infected patients on ART in order to prevent or reduce disease-related outcomes of these patients in this study setting.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-019-4402-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Noncommunicable disease burden among HIV patients in care: a national retrospective longitudinal analysis of HIV-treatment outcomes in Kenya, 2003-2013

BACKGROUND

Over the last decade, the Kenyan HIV treatment program has grown exponentially, with improved survival among people living with HIV (PLHIV). In the same period, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have become a leading contributor to disease burden. We sought to characterize the burden of four major NCDs (cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes mellitus) among adult PLHIV in Kenya.

METHODS

We conducted a nationally representative retrospective medical chart review of HIV-infected adults aged ≥15 years enrolled in HIV care in Kenya from October 1, 2003 through September 30, 2013. We estimated proportions of four NCD categories among PLHIV at enrollment into HIV care, and during subsequent HIV care visits. We compared proportions and assessed distributions of co-morbidities using the Chi-Square test. We calculated NCD incidence rates and their confidence intervals in assessing cofactors for developing NCDs.

RESULTS

We analyzed 3170 records of HIV-infected patients; 2115 (66.3%) were from women. Slightly over half (51.1%) of patient records were from PLHIVs aged above 35 years. Close to two-thirds (63.9%) of PLHIVs were on ART. Proportion of any documented NCD among PLHIV was 11.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 9.3, 14.1), with elevated blood pressure as the most common NCD 343 (87.5%) among PLHIV with a diagnosed NCD. Despite this observation, only 17 (4.9%) patients had a corresponding documented diagnosis of hypertension in their medical record. Overall NCD incidence rates for men and women were (42.3 per 1000 person years [95% CI 35.8, 50.1] and 31.6 [95% CI 27.7, 36.1], respectively. Compared to women, the incidence rate ratio for men developing an NCD was 1.3 [95% CI 1.1, 1.7], p = 0.0082). No differences in NCD incidence rates were seen by marital or employment status. At one year of follow up 43.8% of PLHIV not on ART had been diagnosed with an NCD compared to 3.7% of patients on ART; at five years the proportions with a diagnosed NCD were 88.8 and 39.2% (p < 0.001), respectively.  CONCLUSIONS: PLHIV in Kenya have a high prevalence of NCD diagnoses. In the absence of systematic, effective screening, NCD burden is likely underestimated in this population. Systematic screening and treatment for NCDs using standard guidelines should be integrated into HIV care and treatment programs in sub-Saharan Africa.

The additive effect of type 2 diabetes on fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor, tryptophan and threonine in people living with HIV

Chronic immune activation and ensuing inflammation that accompany HIV infection lead to adverse metabolic consequences and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We examined the additive effects of T2D on circulating biomarkers involved in inflammation, coagulation, and vascular function along with plasma amino acids in people living with HIV (PLWH). This cross-sectional study included PLWH with and without T2D (n = 32 total). Analyses involved a multiplex platform for circulating biomarkers and gas chromatography-vacuum ultraviolet spectroscopy for plasma amino acids. In PLWH and T2D, both fibrinogen (2.0 ± 0.6 vs 1.6 ± 0.4 µg/mL, p = 0.02) and von Willebrand factor (vWF) (40.8 ± 17.2 vs 26.7 ± 13.8 µg/mL, p = 0.02) were increased and tryptophan (47 ± 6 vs 53 ± 8 nmol/mL, p = 0.03) and threonine (102 ± 25 vs 125 ± 33 nmol/mL, p = 0.03) were decreased. Fibrinogen, as a biomarker of inflammation, and vWF, as a biomarker of endothelial dysfunction, are augmented by the combined effects of HIV and T2D and may contribute to the pathogenesis of T2D in PLWH. Chronic immune activation and inflammation compromise the integrity of the intestinal mucosa, which increases mucus production. Tryptophan metabolism is altered by a loss of intestinal membrane integrity and threonine is consumed in the production of mucus. Metabolic competition arising from increased protein synthesis in the setting of chronic inflammation along with the associated loss in intestinal membrane integrity may be a primary mechanism in the pathogenesis of T2D in PLWH and requires further investigation.

Incidence and Risk Factors for Prediabetes and Diabetes Mellitus Among HIV-infected Adults on Antiretroviral Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To summarize evidence on the rates and drivers of progression from normoglycemia to prediabetes and/or diabetes mellitus (hereafter "diabetes") in antiretroviral treatment (ART)-exposed HIV-infected people.

METHODS

We searched EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Global Index Medicus to identify articles published from 1 January 2000 to 30 April 2017. A random-effects model produced a summary estimate of the incidence across studies and heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane's Q statistic.

RESULTS

We included 44 studies, whose methodologic quality was high with only 10 (30%) medium-quality studies and none of low quality. There was substantial heterogeneity between studies in estimates of the incidence of diabetes and prediabetes. The pooled incidence rate of overt diabetes and prediabetes were 13.7 per 1,000 person-years of follow-up (95% CI = 13, 20; I = 98.1%) among 396,496 person-years and 125 per 1,000 person-years (95% CI = 0, 123; I = 99.4) among 1,532 person-years, respectively. The major risk factors for diabetes and prediabetes were aging, family history of diabetes, Black or Hispanic origin, overweight/obesity, central obesity, lipodystrophy/lipoatrophy, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, increased baseline fasting glycemia, and certain ART regimens.

CONCLUSIONS

These data highlight the important and fast-increasing burden of diabetes and prediabetes among the ART-exposed HIV-infected population. More research is needed to better capture the interplay between prediabetes/diabetes and ART in HIV-infected patients, considering the increasing number of ART-exposed patients subsequent to the World Health Organization's recommendation of initiating ART at HIV infection diagnosis regardless of CD4 count and age.

Diabetes mellitus burden among people living with HIV from the Asia-Pacific region

INTRODUCTION

Comorbidities including diabetes mellitus (DM) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) are of increasing clinical concerns in combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) era. We aimed to determine the incidence and risk factors of new-onset DM among PLHIV in Asian settings.

METHODS

PLHIV from a regional observational cohort without DM prior to antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation were included in the analysis. DM was defined as having a fasting blood glucose ≥126 mg/dL, glycated haemoglobin ≥6.5%, a two-hour plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dL, or a random plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dL. A Cox regression model, stratified by site, was used to identify risk factors associated with DM.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Of the 1927 participants included, 127 were diagnosed with DM after ART initiation. Median follow-up time from ART initiation to DM diagnosis was 5.9 years (interquartile range (IQR): 2.8 to 8.9 years). The crude incidence rate of DM was 1.08 per 100 person-years (100 PYS), 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.9 to 1.3). In the multivariate analysis, later years of follow-up (2011 to 2013: HR = 2.34, 95% CI 1.14 to 4.79, p = 0.02; and 2014 to 2017: HR = 7.20, 95% CI 3.27 to 15.87, p < 0.001) compared to <2010, older age (41 to 50 years: HR = 2.46, 95% CI 1.39 to 4.36, p  = 0.002; and >50 years: HR = 4.19, 95% CI 2.12 to 8.28, p < 0.001) compared to <30 years, body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m2 (HR = 4.3, 95% CI 1.53 to 12.09, p = 0.006) compared to BMI <18.5 kg/m2 , and high blood pressure (HR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.16 to 3.63, p = 0.013) compared to those without high blood pressure, were associated with developing DM. The hazard was reduced for females (HR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.80, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Type 2 DM in HIV-infected Asians was associated with later years of follow-up, high blood pressure, obesity and older age. This highlights the importance of monitoring and routine screening for non-communicable diseases including DM as PLHIV age.

Magnitude and associated factors of diabetes mellitus and hypertension among adult HIV-positive individuals receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy at Jugal Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

People with HIV infection are at increased risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension are recognized as the major NCDs. Except few findings in general population, there is no well-documented evidence on the magnitude of NCDs and associated factors among HIV-positive patients.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine the magnitude and associated factors of DM and hypertension among adult HIV-positive subjects receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

METHODS

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April at Jugal Hospital, Harar, Eastern Ethiopia. Sociodemographic and anthropometric data and blood pressure (BP) were collected by senior clinical nurses. A total of 5 mL of venous blood was collected. Serum glucose and lipid profile were measured using the Autolab 18 clinical chemistry analyzer. Data were analyzed using STATA version 13.

RESULTS

A total of 425 HIV-infected individuals taking HAART of age ranging from 18 to 68 years were included. The prevalence of DM and hypertension were 7.1% (95% CI: 4.9-9.9) and 12.7% (95% CI: 9.8-16.2), respectively. Increased blood triglyceride (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =4.7, 95% CI: 1.7-13.1), high BP (AOR =3.3, 95% CI: 1.1-9.5), and high baseline body mass index (BMI) (AOR =8.7, 95% CI: 2.4-31.8) were significantly associated with DM. In contrast, raised waist-hip ratio (AOR =4.6, 95% CI: 1.6-13.3), raised blood glucose (AOR =3.5, 95% CI: 1.1-11.4), increased total cholesterol (AOR =3.9, 95% CI: 1.3-11.9), high current BMI (AOR =3.8, 95% CI: 1.5-9.6), drinking alcohol (AOR =3.4, 95% CI: 1.5-8.1), CD4 count <500 cell/mL (AOR =2.7, 95% CI: 1.3-5.6), and longer duration of HAART (AOR =2.3, 95% CI: 1.1-5.1) were significantly associated with hypertension.

CONCLUSION

DM and hypertension were frequent among HIV patients on HAART, and they were linked to the well-known risk factors. Therefore, regular screening and monitoring of DM and hypertension before and after the initiation of HAART is of paramount importance.

Risk of diabetes mellitus in HIV-infected patients receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy: A nationwide population-based study

Previous studies have shown that the incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) has increased in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients with long-term exposure to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). However, the factors associated with DM among HIV-infected patients in Asia remain unclear in the HAART era.A nationwide cohort studyData from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) between 2000 and 2010 were used to investigate the incidence of and factors associated with DM among HIV-infected patients. Propensity score matching was conducted to match 4797 patients receiving HAART (HAART cohort) with 4797 patients not receiving HAART (non-HAART cohort). HAART use was treated as a time-dependent variable in a Cox regression model.HAART cohort had a significantly higher 10-year incidence of DM (7.16%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.30%-10.03%) than non-HAART cohort (2.24%; 95% CI, 1.28%-3.20%) (P < .001). After adjusting for age, gender, and comorbidities, receiving HAART was associated with an increased incidence of DM, with a subdistribution hazard ratio (sHR) of 2.39 (95% CI, 1.65-3.45). Hypertension (sHR = 5.27; 95% CI, 3.21-8.65), gout (sHR = 2.39; 95% CI, 1.38-4.16), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection (sHR = 2.43; 95% CI, 1.28-4.61) were significantly associated with a higher risk of DM. Sensitivity analyses showed exposure to HAART remained significantly associated with an increased risk of DM, particularly in those without pre-existing hypertension, gout, or HCV infection.Exposure to HAART increased the risk of DM in HIV-infected Taiwanese patients, particularly in those without pre-existing hypertension, gout, or HCV infection.

The association between antiretroviral therapy and selected cardiovascular disease risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

With increasing adverse cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes in HIV/AIDS patients, the possible contribution of antiretroviral therapy (ART) to the prevailing CVD epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) through its effect on CVD risk factors has rather been under investigated. This study aimed to assess the extent to which ART is associated with hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM) and dyslipidemia in SSA.

METHODS

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies from SSA, published between January 1946 and December 2017, from Medline, Embase, Africa-wide Information, the Cochrane library, African Index and Medicus databases. Both observational and interventional studies with comparable ART-treated and ART-naïve populations were selected and data was extracted from eligible studies. Pooled estimates of the effect of ART on the outcomes of interest (hypertension, diabetes and abnormal lipid profiles) were obtained using random effects meta-analysis, and meta-regression analysis was used to explore between-study heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Twenty cross-sectional studies were included involving 5386 participants. There was no association between ART use and hypertension (OR: 1.9, 95%CI: 0.96-3.76, n = 8, I2 = 73.8%) and DM (OR: 2.53, 95%CI: 0.87-7.35, n = 8, I2 = 73.8%). ART use was associated with high total cholesterol (OR: 3.85, 95%CI: 2.45-6.07, n = 8, I2 = 67.0%), high triglycerides (OR: 1.46, 95%CI: 1.21-1.75, n = 14, I2 = 10.0%) and high LDL-cholesterol (OR: 2.38, 95%CI: 1.43-3.95, n = 11, I2 = 87.6%). ART was associated with rather lower odds of having low HDL-cholesterol (OR: 0.53, 95%CI: 0.32-0.87, n = 8, I2 = 78.2%). There was evidence of between-study heterogeneity for all outcomes except high triglycerides.

CONCLUSIONS

ART appears to be associated with CVD risk in HIV/AIDS patients in SSA only through dyslipidemia but not through hypertension and DM, however, high quality and robust research in SSA is mandated to accurately ascertain the actual contribution of ART to the CVD burden in this part of the world. Nevertheless, HIV/AIDS patients should still benefit from systematic CVD screening alongside their regular care services.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Prospero Registration - CRD42016042306.

Prevalence and correlates of traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease in a Nigerian ART-naive HIV population: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

HIV infection environment presents a classic example of the interplay between infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Traditional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors abound in the HIV population even before initiation of antiretrovirals (ARVs) and predispose them to the development of stroke and myocardial infarction. This work focuses on determining the prevalence of traditional CVD risk factors among ARV-naive HIV individuals in southern Nigeria.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of ARV-naive patients initiating care at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital HIV clinic cohort to determine the prevalence and correlates of hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), obesity and dyslipidaemia.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 4925 assessed for hypertension, 5223 for obesity, 1818 for DM and 926 for dyslipidaemia. Hypertension prevalence was 26.7% (95% CI 25.5% to 28.0%) with a male preponderance (p=0.02). DM was found in 5.6% (95% CI 4.5% to 6.7%), obesity in 8.3% (95% CI 7.6% to 9.1%) and dyslipidaemia in 29.1% (95% CI 26.1% to 32.1%) with a high prevalence of low high-density lipoprotein-c (42.6%). Hypertension was independently associated with age (OR 1.04 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.05), p<0.001) and body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.06 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.08), p<0.001), obesity with age (OR 1.02 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.03), p<0.001), male gender (OR 0.38 (95% CI 0.29 to 0.49), p<0.001) and CD4 count (OR 2.63 (95% CI 1.96 to 3.53), p<0.001) while dyslipidaemia was associated with BMI (OR 1.05 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.10), p=0.03).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of traditional CVD risk factors is high in this ART-naive HIV population. An integrated approach of HIV and NCD screening/treatment may be relevant for centres in sub-Saharan Africa.

Diabetes mellitus in HIV-infected patients: fasting glucose, A1c, or oral glucose tolerance test - which method to choose for the diagnosis?

BACKGROUND

Antiretroviral therapy dramatically reduced HIV-related morbidity and mortality, prolonging the lifespan of HIV-infected patients. Greater duration of infection and exposure to antiretroviral therapy makes these patients susceptible to traditional cardio-metabolic risk factors and pathologies. The optimal diagnostic protocol for Diabetes Mellitus in these patients is still controversial. Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) has been shown to underestimate glycaemia levels and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) has been shown to reveal cases of glucose metabolism disturbances in patients with normal fasting glucose. Thus, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes in a population of HIV-infected patients undergoing combined antiretroviral therapy, using three different diagnostic methods (fasting glucose, OGTT and HbA1c), to determine the agreement between the different methods and the characteristics associated with each one.

METHODS

This study analyzed 220 HIV-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy. Patient characteristics were collected using a standardized protocol. Disturbances of glucose homeostasis were defined by the ADA 2017 criteria. Patients were characterized according to the presence or absence of clinical lipodystrophy, and distributed into four different categories, according to the presence, or absence of either clinical lipoatrophy, or abdominal prominence. Insulin resistance was assessed by HOMA-IR and QUICKI indexes. Agreement between the diagnostic methods was assessed by Cohen's kappa coefficient.

RESULTS

There were no patients diagnosed with diabetes with HbA1c. 5.9% prevalence was obtained when OGTT was used, and 3.2% prevalence when fasting glucose was used. Prediabetes had a prevalence of 14.1% when using HbA1c, 24.1% when using OGTT, and 20% when using fasting glucose. In all three methods, glucose homeostasis disturbances were associated with older age and higher resistance to insulin. Regarding other characteristics, associations varied between the three methods. The agreement between them was fair, or slight.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed that HbA1c was the method that diagnosed the least amount of cases and that OGTT was the one that diagnosed the most cases. Accordingly, our results indicate that HbA1c underestimated glycaemia levels in this population and that the use of OGTT might allow an earlier diagnosis of glucose homeostasis disturbances, potentially making it possible to avoid severe complications of DM.

HIV-associated nephropathy: links, risks and management

Despite the decreased incidence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated nephropathy due to the widespread use of combined active antiretroviral therapy, it remains one of the leading causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in HIV-1 seropositive patients. Patients usually present with low CD4 count, high viral load and heavy proteinuria, with the pathologic findings of collapsing focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Increased susceptibility exists in individuals with African descent, largely due to polymorphism in APOL1 gene. Other clinical risk factors include high viral load and low CD4 count. Advanced kidney disease and nephrotic range proteinuria have been associated with progression to ESRD. Improvement in kidney function has been observed after initiation of combined active antiretroviral therapy. Other treatment options, when clinically indicated, are inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system and corticosteroids. Further routine management approaches for patients with chronic kidney disease should be implemented. In patients with progression to ESRD, kidney transplant should be pursued, provided that viral load control is adequate. Screening for the presence of kidney disease upon detection of HIV-1 seropositivity in high-risk populations is recommended.

Immune reconstitution in ART treated, but not untreated HIV infection, is associated with abnormal beta cell function

HIV infection has been associated with increased diabetes risk, but prior work has mostly focused on insulin resistance, as opposed to beta cell effects, or included patients on antiretroviral therapies (ART) directly linked to metabolic toxicity. In this analysis, we measured markers of glucose homeostasis and beta cell function, stress, and death in fasting sera from a cross section of HIV+ individuals off ART (n = 43), HIV+ individuals on ART (n = 23), and HIV- controls (n = 39). Markers included glucose, HOMA%S, HOMA%B, proinsulin:C-peptide ratio (PI:C ratio), and circulating preproinsulin (INS) DNA. We performed multiple linear regressions with adjustments for age, sex, race, BMI, and smoking status. Compared to HIV- controls, HIV+ participants off ART exhibited similar beta cell function and insulin sensitivity, without increases in markers of beta cell stress or death. Specifically, in HIV+ participants with CD4 counts <350 cells/μL, PI:C ratios were lower than in HIV- controls (p<0.01), suggesting a reduction in intrinsic beta cell stress among this group. By contrast, HIV+ participants on ART had higher fasting glucose (p<0.0001) and lower HOMA%B (p<0.001) compared to HIV- controls. Among the entire HIV+ population, higher HIV RNA correlated with lower fasting glucose (r = -0.57, p<0.001), higher HOMA%B (r = 0.40, p = 0.001), and lower PI:C ratios (r = -0.42, p<0.001), whereas higher CD4 counts correlated with higher PI:C ratios (r = 0.2, p = 0.00499). Our results suggest that HIV seropositivity in the absence of ART does not worsen beta cell function or glucose homeostasis, but immune reconstitution with ART may be associated with worsened beta cell function.

A Review of Long-Term Toxicity of Antiretroviral Treatment Regimens and Implications for an Aging Population

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a chronic infectious disease currently requiring lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART). People living with HIV (PLWH) face an increased risk of comorbidities associated with aging, chronic HIV, and the toxicity arising from long-term ART. A literature review was conducted to identify the most recent evidence documenting toxicities associated with long-term ART, particularly among aging PLWH. In general, PLWH are at a greater risk of developing fractures, osteoporosis, renal and metabolic disorders, central nervous system disorders, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease. There remains limited evidence describing the economic burden of long-term ART. Overall, an aging HIV population treated with long-term ART presents a scenario in which the clinical, humanistic, and economic burden for healthcare systems will demand thoughtful policy solutions that preserve access to treatment. Newer treatment regimens with fewer drugs may mitigate some of the cumulative toxicity burden of long-term ART.

Funding: ViiV Healthcare.

Association between the use of protease inhibitors in highly active antiretroviral therapy and incidence of diabetes mellitus and/or metabolic syndrome in HIV-infected patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis tries to determine whether there is an association between the use of protease inhibitors (PIs) and the incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and/or metabolic syndrome (MS) in HIV-infected patients. A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE/PubMed, CENTRAL, LILACS, and EMBASE. Included articles were observational studies published on or prior to November 2015 that met specific inclusion criteria. Pooled relative risks (RRs) and hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated. Nine articles met the inclusion criteria, describing 13,742 HIV patients. Use of PIs was associated with the development of MS (RR: 2.11; 95% CI 1.28-3.48; p-value 0.003). No association between the use of PIs and development of DM was found: the HR for the incidence of DM among patients using PIs was 1.23 (95% CI 0.66-2.30; p-value: 0.51) and the RR was 1.25 (95% CI 0.99-1.58; p-value 0.06). Use of PIs in HIV-infected patients is associated with an increased risk of MS. No evidence of an increased risk of DM was found. However, because MS is a precursor to DM, it is possible that studies with a longer follow-up duration are needed in order to detect an association between PI use and onset of DM.

High rates of incident diabetes and prediabetes are evident in men with treated HIV followed for 11 years

OBJECTIVE

To determine the long-term incidence of glucose disorders in treated HIV infection, associations with traditional and HIV-specific risk factors.

METHODS

Observational cohort of 104 men with treated HIV infection and without diabetes, aged 43 ± 8 years at baseline, with (mean ± SD) 11.8 ± 3.5 years follow-up. Ascertainment of glucose status by fasting glucose or, in a subset (n = 33), a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test by 10-12 years follow-up. A subset underwent sequential body composition measures (n = 58) to determine changes in total body and central abdominal adiposity.

RESULTS

The cumulative incidence of glucose disorders was 48.1% (prediabetes 35.6%, diabetes 12.5%), with an incidence rate of 34.5/1000 years of patient follow-up (PYFU) (prediabetes: 24.3/1000 PYFU; diabetes: 10.2/1000 PYFU). Incident glucose disorders were independently associated with higher age (44.9 ± 8.4 vs. 41.1 ± 7.5 years, P = 0.027), baseline C-peptide (2.9 ± 1.3 vs. 2.4 ± 1.1 ng/ml, P = 0.019) and baseline 2-h glucose (135 ± 41 vs. 95 ± 25 mg/dl, P < 0.001). A prior AIDS-defining illness was independently associated with higher follow-up fasting glucose (108 ± 38 vs. 94 ± 16 mg/dl, P = 0.007). Abdominal fat gain over 2-4 years was associated with a 3.16-fold increased risk of incident glucose disorders (95% CI 1.30-7.68, P = 0.011). In a subgroup who underwent further oral glucose tolerance testing, 60% had a glucose disorder, the majority not detected by fasting glucose.

CONCLUSION

Men with long-term treated HIV infection have high rates of incident glucose disorders associated with modest abdominal fat gain. Directed measures to prevent diabetes in this population are warranted.

The Role of Type 2 Diabetes for the Development of Pathogen-Associated Cancers in the Face of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic

The contribution of HIV to the development of pathogen-associated cancers has long been recognized, as has the contribution of type 2 diabetes for the development of several types of cancer. While HIV/AIDS-associated immunosuppression reduces immunosurveillance and indirectly contributes favorably to cancerogenesis, diabetes directly increases cancer development due to chronic low-grade inflammation, dysregulated glucose metabolism, hyperactivation of insulin-responsive pathways, and anti-apoptotic signaling. Pathogen-associated cancers contribute significantly to the cancer burden particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In those countries, the incidence of type 2 diabetes has increased alarmingly over the last decades, in part due to rapid changes in diet, lifestyle, and urbanization. It is likely that the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the steadily increasing rate of type 2 diabetes display synergistic effects on oncogenesis. Although this possible link has not been extensively investigated, it might become more important in the years to come not least due to the stimulating effects of antiretroviral therapy on the development of type 2 diabetes. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of pathogen- and diabetes- associated cancers with focus on geographical regions additionally burdened by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. As both HIV and carcinogenic infections as well as the onset of type 2 diabetes involve environmental factors that can be avoided to a certain extent, this review will support the hypothesis that certain malignancies are potentially preventable. Deploying effective infection control strategies together with educational policies on diet and lifestyle may in the long term reduce the burden of preventable cancers which is of particular relevance in low-resource settings.

New-onset diabetes in HIV-treated adults: predictors, long-term renal and cardiovascular outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence and risk factors for developing diabetes mellitus in a cohort of Thai HIV-infected patients on long-term combination antiretroviral therapy (cART).

DESIGN

Prospective study conducted between July 1996 and 30 April 2015.

METHODS

A total of 1748 patients (60% men) who did not have diabetes mellitus prior to ART were assessed twice a year. Incident diabetes mellitus was defined as either having two consecutive fasting glucose levels more than 126 mg/dl, or reporting antidiabetes mellitus medication/diabetes mellitus diagnosis after starting cART. Incidence rates were calculated per 1000 person-year follow-up. Multivariate Cox regression was used to determine risk factors for the development of diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 9 years (16 274 person-year of follow-up), 123 patients developed new-onset diabetes mellitus, resulting in an incidence rate of 7.6 (95% confidence interval 6.3-9) per 1000 person-year of follow-up. From the multivariate models, age more than 35 years, male sex, BMI at least 25 kg/m, family history of diabetes, abnormal waist circumference, lipodystrophy and exposure to didanosine were significantly associated with incident diabetes mellitus. The diabetes mellitus group had higher mortality rate (8.1 vs. 4.1%, P = 0.04). A significantly higher proportion diabetes vs. nondiabetes patients developed cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications (8.9 vs. 3.6%, P = 0.008) or chronic kidney disease stage III (estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/1.73 m) (15.3 vs. 1.9%, P < 0.001) over total follow-up.

CONCLUSION

In addition to traditional risk factors, lipodystrophy and use of didanosine were strongly associated with development of incident diabetes. Given the higher rate of cardiovascular-cerebrovascular complications and chronic kidney disease among patients with diabetes mellitus, careful assessment and appropriate management of diabetes mellitus are essential.

HIV and its relationship to insulin resistance and lipid abnormalities

Antiretroviral therapy has revolutionized the care of people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by reducing morbidity and mortality from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-related conditions. Despite longer life expectancy, however, HIV-infected individuals continue to have a higher risk of death compared with the general population. This has been attributed to the increasing incidence of noncommunicable diseases, in particular, atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. This is driven, in part, by the emergence of metabolic disorders, particularly dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and lipodystrophy, in those on antiretroviral therapy. The pathogenesis of these metabolic derangements is complex and multifactorial, and could be a consequence of an interplay between traditional age-related risk factors, HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy effects, and the inflammatory state and immune activation in this population. Understanding the contributions of each of these factors could not just impact the current management of these individuals and help mitigate the risk for premature cardiovascular disease, but also shape the future direction of research in HIV.

microRNA-200a: A stage-dependent biomarker and predictor of steatosis and liver cell injury in human immunodeficiency virus patients

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease contributes to liver-related mortality and has a high prevalence among patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The early detection of steatosis could prevent disease progression through life-style changes. However, as the common serum markers are nonspecific and the gold standard for the detection of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease remains the invasive liver biopsy, its verification is limited. Therefore, the search for novel biomarkers is essential. Several studies have emphasized the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers for certain liver diseases. With our study, we aimed to investigate the potential of miR-200a as a biomarker for liver injury, fibrosis, and steatosis in HIV patients. The study cohort consisted of 89 HIV patients. Clinical and laboratory parameters were assessed twice, within a median follow-up period of 12 months. miR-200a serum levels were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and normalized to spiked-in RNA (SV40). miR-200a serum levels showed a significant correlation with the patients' controlled attenuation parameter scores and their body weight at baseline and with alanine aminotransferase serum levels at follow-up. At baseline, we observed a stage-dependent increase in miR-200a serum levels according to the degree of steatosis. More importantly, patients with higher baseline levels of miR-200a recorded a progression of steatosis at follow-up. Remarkably, miR-200a not only reveals a prognostic value for steatosis but possibly also for liver damage and metabolic adaptions as patients with an increase in alanine aminotransferase/aspartate aminotransferase serum levels over time also recorded higher baseline miR-200a levels. Conclusion : Our study reveals miR-200a not only to be a stage-dependent biomarker of steatosis but also to be a predictor of steatosis progression and probably liver cell injury in HIV patients. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:36-45).

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in patients with HIV

Liver disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among people with HIV, and in this era of safer and more effective hepatitis C therapy, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) could soon emerge as the most common liver disease in this population. NAFLD is common among patients with HIV, and might be more likely to progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and NAFLD-related fibrosis or cirrhosis in these patients than in individuals without HIV. Several mechanisms of NAFLD pathogenesis are postulated to explain the disease severity in patients with HIV; these mechanisms include the influence of the gut microbiome, and also metabolic, genetic, and immunological factors. Although treatment strategies are currently based on modification of NAFLD risk factors, many new drugs are now in clinical trials, including trials specifically in patients with HIV. Thus, the identification and risk-stratification of patients with HIV and NAFLD are becoming increasingly important for accurately counselling of these patients regarding their prognosis and for establishing the most appropriate disease-altering therapy.

Dysglycemia associations with adipose tissue among HIV-infected patients after 2 years of antiretroviral therapy in Mwanza: a follow-up cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Data on the burden of dysglycemia among HIV-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Africa are limited. We determined the prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes among HIV-infected patients who started ART when malnourished 2 to 3 years previously and investigated the association of dysglycemia with body composition.

METHODS

Malnourished (body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 kg/m2) HIV-infected patients who were enrolled in the Nutritional Support for Africans Starting Antiretroviral Therapy (NUSTART) trial from 2011 to 2013 were followed-up from March to August 2015. Anthropometric, fat mass and fat-free mass by bioelectrical impedance, and C-reactive protein (CRP) data were collected at baseline and follow-up. At follow-up, we defined fasting glucose of 6.1-6.9 mmol/L as impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and 2-h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) glucose of ≥7.8 to <11.1 mmol/L as impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Both of these were considered pre-diabetes. Fasting glucose of ≥7.0 mmol/L or impaired glucose tolerance of ≥11.1 mmol/L was defined as diabetes mellitus. The relation of pre-diabetes and diabetes with body composition was assessed using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventy-three (57%) of 478 patients who were alive at trial conclusion were followed-up. The mean age was 41.5 (SD 9.8) years and 65.2% (178) were females. The mean follow-up BMI was 19.9 (SD 2.8) kg/m2, 12 (4.4%) were either overweight or obese, and 61 (22.3%) patients had pre-diabetes or diabetes. In multiple regression, upper tertiles of baseline hip circumference (OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.2, 0.8) and fat mass index (OR: 0.20 (0.1, 0.5), and upper tertiles of follow-up waist circumference (OR: 0.22 (0.1, 0.5), BMI (OR: 0.32 (0.1, 0.7), fat mass index (OR: 0.19 (0.1, 0.5) and the middle tertile of follow-up fat-free mass (OR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.1, 0.8) were associated with lower risk of pre-diabetes and diabetes (P < 0.05 for all). Baseline and follow-up CRP were not predictors.

CONCLUSIONS

Low rather than high measures of adipose tissue were associated with increased risk of pre-diabetes and diabetes. Additional studies are needed to further investigate the role of body composition and control of glucose metabolism in the pathogenesis of diabetes among persons living with HIV in Africa.

Higher CD163 levels are associated with insulin resistance in hepatitis C virus-infected and HIV-infected adults

OBJECTIVES

HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection is associated with insulin resistance, but the mechanism is unclear. We hypothesized that intestinal epithelial damage and the consequent monocyte/macrophage activation and inflammation explain this perturbation.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study of 519 adults (220 HIV+/HCV-; 64 HIV-/HCV+; 89 HIV+/HCV+; 146 HIV-/HCV-).

METHODS

We used multivariable linear regression to evaluate associations of HIV and HCV with the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and if intestinal fatty (FA) acid binding protein (I-FABP, a marker of gut epithelial integrity), soluble CD14 (sCD14) and soluble CD163 (sCD163) (markers of monocyte/macrophage activation), and IL-6 (an inflammatory cytokine) mediated this association.

RESULTS

HIV+/HCV+ and HIV-/HCV+ had greater demographic-adjusted HOMA-IR [mean (95% confidence interval (CI)): 1.96 (1.51, 2.54) and 1.65 (1.22, 2.24)] than HIV+/HCV- and HIV-/HCV-[1.41 (1.18, 1.67) and 1.44 (1.17, 1.75), respectively]. After additional adjustment for lifestyle and metabolic factors, HIV+/HCV+ remained associated with 36% (95% CI: 4, 80%) greater HOMA-IR relative to HIV-/HCV-, whereas HIV-/HCV+ and HIV+/HCV- had smaller differences. Adjustment for sCD163 substantially attenuated the difference between HIV+/HCV+ and HIV-/HCV-; adjustment for I-FABP, sCD14, and IL-6 had little effect. Higher sCD163 was independently associated with 19% (95% CI: 7, 33%), 26% (95% CI: 15, 39%), 25% (95% CI: 14, 37%), and 23% (95% CI: 11, 36%) greater HOMA-IR in HIV+/HCV+, HIV-/HCV+, HIV+/HCV-, and HIV-/HCV- (all estimates per doubling of sCD163). I-FABP, sCD14, and IL-6 were not associated with HOMA-IR.

CONCLUSION

HIV/HCV coinfection is associated with greater HOMA-IR, even after controlling for demographic, lifestyle, and metabolic factors. sCD163, which appears independent of intestinal epithelial damage and inflammation, partly explains this association. Our findings that the association of sCD163 with HOMA-IR occurred even in the absence of HIV and HCV, indicate that viral and nonviral factors affect sCD163 levels. Its role in insulin resistance needs elucidation.

Fifteen-Year Trends in the Prevalence of Diabetes among Hospitalized HIV-Infected Patients in Spain (1997-2012)

OBJECTIVE

To describe trends in the prevalence of diabetes among hospitalized HIV-infected patients between 1997 and 2012 in Spain and compare them with those of age- and sex-matched non-HIV-infected patients.

METHODS

The study was based on Spanish national hospital discharge data. We performed a retrospective study for the period 1997-2012. HIV infection (HIV-infected versus non-HIV-infected [control group])and calendar period in relation to widespread use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) (1997-1999; 2000-2003; 2004-2007 and 2008-2012), were the exposure variables The outcome variables were diagnosis of diabetes and in-hospital mortality (IHM).

RESULTS

From 1997 to 2012, we identified 91,752 cases of diabetes: 15,398 in the HIV-infected group (403,277 hospital admissions) and 76,354 in the non-HIV-infected group (1,503,467 hospital admissions). Overall, HIV-infected patients had lower prevalence values for diabetes than non-HIV-infected patients throughout the follow-up (3.8% vs. 5.1%; p<0.001). The prevalence of diabetes increased 1.56-fold among non-HIV-infected patients and 4.2-fold among HIV-infected patients. The prevalence of diabetes in females was almost twice as high in HIV-infected patients as in non-HIV-infected patients during the last study period (4.72% vs. 2.88%; p<0.001). Diabetes showed a protective effect against IHM throughout the study period (aOR = 0.70; 95%CI, 0.65-0.75).

CONCLUSIONS

During the cART era, the prevalence of diabetes has increased sharply among HIV-infected hospitalized patients compared with matched non-HIV-infected subjects. The prevalence of diabetes is rising very fast among HIV-infected women. Diabetes has a protective effect on IHM among HIV-infected patients. Nevertheless, our study has several limitations. No information is available in the database used on important sociodemographic characteristics and relevant clinical variables including duration of the HIV infection, treatments used, drug resistance, treatment adherence or CD4 count, among others. Also, it is possible that increase of diabetes prevalence could reflect the improvement in recording habits.

A cross-sectional, facility based study of comorbid non-communicable diseases among adults living with HIV infection in Zimbabwe

BACKGROUND

Increased antiretroviral therapy uptake in sub-Saharan Africa has resulted in improved survival of the infected. Opportunistic infections are declining as leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Though comprehensive data are lacking, concern has been raised about the rapid emergence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the African HIV care setting. We therefore set out to characterise the NCD/HIV burden among adults living and ageing with HIV infection in Zimbabwe.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study among patients receiving care in a public sector facility. We reviewed patient records and determined the prevalence of comorbid and multi-morbid NCDs. Associations with patient characteristics were evaluated using univariate and multi-variate logistic regression modelling. Significance testing was done using 2-sided p values and 95 % confidence intervals calculated.

RESULTS

We recruited 1033 participants. 31 % were men. Significant gender differences included: older median age, more advanced disease at baseline, and greater use of stavudine and protease inhibitor containing regimens in men compared to women. The prevalence of comorbidity and multi-morbidity were, respectively, 15.3 % (95 % CI 13.3-17.7 %) and 4.5 % (95 % CI 3.4-6.0 %). Women had higher rates than men of both co-morbidity and multi-morbid ity: 21.8 vs. 14.9 %; p = 0.010 and 5.3 vs. 2.9 %; p = 0.025 respectively. The commonly observed individual NCDs were hypertension [10.2 %; (95 % CI 8.4-12.2 %)], asthma [4.3 % (95 % CI 3.1-5.8 %)], type 2 diabetes mellitus [2.1 % (95 % CI 1.3-3.2 %)], cancer [1.8 % (95 % CI 1.1-2.8 %)], and congestive cardiac failure [1.5 % (95 % CI 0.9-2.5 %)]. After adjusting for confounding, only age categories 45-≤55 years (AOR 2.25; 95 % CI 1.37-3.69) and >55 years (AOR 5.42; 95 % CI 3.17-9.26), and female gender (AOR 2.12; 95 % CI 1.45-3.11) remained significantly and strongly associated with comorbidity risk.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a substantial burden of comorbid non-communicable diseases among HIV infected patients in a high HIV and low-income setting. Integrating non-communicable diseases care, including active screening, with HIV care is recommended.

Severe dyslipidemia and immune activation in HIV patients with dysglycemia

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is common in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. However, the relationship between dysglycemia, lipid metabolism, and immune activation in HIV patients is poorly understood.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 180 HIV patients, including 153 patients undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and 27 HAART-naive patients. DM was defined as fasting serum glucose levels ≥126 mg/dl, and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) was defined as serum glucose levels of 101-125 mg/dl at two different time points. Lipid metabolic indexes were measured. CD4+, CD8+, and CD8+ HLA-DR+ T cells were determined by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

IFM and DM percentages were higher in the HAART group than in the HAART-naive group (59.5% vs. 48.1% and 21.6% vs. 7.4%, respectively; p < 0.01). Additionally, DM percentage was high in patients receiving HAART containing protease inhibitors. Serum levels of triglycerides and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were higher in IFG and DM HAART patients than in euglycemic HAART patients (p < 0.05). Serum triglyceride levels were higher in HAART-naive DM patients than in other patients (p < 0.05). CD8+ and CD8+ HLA-DR+ cell counts were higher in IFG and DM HAART patients than in euglycemic HAART patients (p < 0.05). Ordinal logistic regression analysis suggested that TRIG, VLDL, CD8, and HAART were predictors of glucose metabolic disorders.

CONCLUSION

HIV patients with hyperglycemia have severe dyslipidemia and immune activation, and HAART is an important impact factor of glucose and lipid metabolic disorders.

Triglyceride/HDL ratio and its impact on the risk of diabetes mellitus development during ART

OBJECTIVES

Our primary aim was to study diabetes mellitus (DM) arising during combination ART (cART) and to attempt to identify associations between these cases and triglycerides (TRG) and the TRG to HDL-cholesterol (TRG/HDL) ratio. Our secondary aim was to analyse the association between DM development and hepatic fibrosis.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study. Patients from the Icona Foundation study initiating first-line cART between 1997 and 2013 were selected and observed until new-onset DM or most recent clinical follow-up. The predictive value of TRG and TRG/HDL ratio levels on DM was evaluated using multivariable Poisson regression models.

RESULTS

Three-thousand, five-hundred and forty-six patients (males, 73.7%; median age, 38 years; median BMI, 23.1 kg/m(2); and hepatitis C virus antibody positive, 22.1%) were included. Of these, 80 developed DM over 13 911 person-years of follow-up (PYFU), corresponding to 5.7 cases per 1000 PYFU (95% CI = 4.6-7.1). At multivariable analysis, latest TRG/HDL ratio, when high, was associated with significant increases in DM risk [relative risk (RR) = 1.63; 95% CI = 1.32-2.01 per 10 points higher], while current TRG, in contrast, was associated with new-onset DM only at crude analysis. Advanced liver fibrosis (defined as fibrosis-4 index >3.25) was also shown to be an independent risk factor for DM (RR = 2.91; 95% CI = 1.10-7.72).

CONCLUSIONS

High TRG/HDL ratio predicted risk of new-onset DM, independently of other traditional risk factors. Furthermore, our findings suggest that advanced hepatic fibrosis, estimated using the fibrosis-4 score, could provide an additional predictor for DM.

Risk Factors for Incident Diabetes in a Cohort Taking First-Line Nonnucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor-Based Antiretroviral Therapy

Efavirenz is the preferred nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) in first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens in low- and middle-income countries, where the prevalence of diabetes is increasing. Randomized control trials have shown mild increases in plasma glucose in participants in the efavirenz arms, but no association has been reported with overt diabetes. We explored the association between efavirenz exposure and incident diabetes in a large Southern African cohort commencing NNRTI-based first-line ART. Our cohort included HIV-infected adults starting NNRTI-based ART in a private sector HIV disease management program from January 2002 to December 2011. Incident diabetes was identified by the initiation of diabetes treatment. Patients with prevalent diabetes were excluded. We included 56,298 patients with 113,297 patient-years of follow-up (PYFU) on first-line ART. The crude incidence of diabetes was 13.24 per 1000 PYFU. Treatment with efavirenz rather than nevirapine was associated with increased risk of developing diabetes (hazard ratio 1.27 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10-1.46)) in a multivariate analysis adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, baseline CD4 count, viral load, NRTI backbone, and exposure to other diabetogenic medicines. Zidovudine and stavudine exposure were also associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes. We found that treatment with efavirenz, as well as stavudine and zidovudine, increased the risk of incident diabetes. Interventions to detect and prevent diabetes should be implemented in ART programs, and use of antiretrovirals with lower risk of metabolic complications should be encouraged.