Impact of lipodystrophy syndrome on the quality of life of patients receiving antiretroviral treatment: is this a solved question or a recurring problem?

Although newer antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens have reduced the severity of lipodystrophy syndrome (LS), people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) still report body fat changes. This study evaluated the impact of LS on the quality of life (QoL) of PLWHA receiving ART for at least six months. Participants completed sociodemographic and clinical questionnaires, a self-perceived body changes questionnaire and the HAT-QoL scale. Facial lipoatrophy was assessed using the Facial Lipoatrophy Index (FLI). Student's t-test and chi-squared test were applied (5% significance). Among 95 participants, 77.9% were male, 62.1% identified as homosexual and 52.6% were under 40 years old. Most (76.8%) reported body changes, mainly in the abdomen, waist and limbs. Mean QoL score was 72.0. Lower scores in life satisfaction, medication concerns and HIV acceptance were observed among those reporting body changes (p < 0.05). Most participants showed mild facial lipoatrophy and objective facial volume loss was not significantly associated with QoL. PLWHA on ART exhibited reduced QoL, particularly those with self-perceived LS-related body changes, highlighting the need for clinical monitoring and psychosocial support.