Prevalence and Factors of Anaemia Among Adults Living with HIV on Haart in a Tertiary Health Institution in North Central Nigeria

Anaemia is a prevalent haematologic disorder among adults living with HIV (ALWHIV), persisting despite the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Studies in Nigeria have reported high anaemia prevalence rates among HIV patients. Identifying the factors associated with and understanding the prevalence of anaemia in HIV patients can inform strategies to reduce its incidence and improve patient outcomes. This study was conducted at Bingham University Teaching Hospital in Jos, Nigeria. Data from 425 HIV-positive patients on first-line HAART treatment for at least six months were analyzed. WHO criteria were used to define and categorize anaemia, viral load and CD4 count classifications to stage HIV infection. The study participants had a mean age of 48±7.8years. Overall anemia prevalence was 32.2%, with 19.1%, 11.5% and 1.6% of participants having mild, moderate and severe anemia respectively. Participants with lower CD4 counts (<200 cells/µL), undetectable viral loads and those with unsuppressed viral loads had higher percentages of anaemia. There was no statistically significant association between anaemia and Age, CD 4 count, Viral Load, and Gender. Anemia is a significant health concern among ALWHIV despite being on HAART. It requires regular monitoring in these patients for better clinical outcomes and better quality of life.