Differences between self-perceived and objectively measured body composition in HIV patients using InBody

Introduction: Body composition is a critical aspect of health, particularly for individuals living with HIV. This study investigates the differences between self-perceived body composition and objectively measured body composition using the InBody machine in HIV outpatients. Methods: A total of 383 HIV-infected outpatients receiving ARV treatment were invited to participate. Patients’ perceptions of their weight, muscle mass, fat mass, water, and mineral content were collected through face-to-face interviews. Subsequently, patients underwent body composition analysis using the InBody machine, and the data were classified into three groups according to each individual’s reference level. Results: Among the 383 patients, 77.5% were male, with the highest age group being 30–45 years, accounting for 56.1%. Nearly two thirds (66.3%) of the patients had been living with HIV for five years or more. The results revealed significant differences between patients’ perceptions and the objective measurements of body composition in 4 out of 5 indicators, except for fat mass. Conclusion: Self-perception of health is important as it influences decisions to seek medical services and other forms of assistance. The discrepancies between HIV patients’ perceptions of their body composition and objective measurements highlight the necessity of regular body composition assessments and improved patient education to enhance health outcomes. Keywords: Body composition, HIV, ARV, Inbody, outpatient