Abstract
Introduction:
People living with HIV (PLHIV) in Tanzania now live longer and hence are at increased risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Despite the substantial resources available for HIV care programs, the effective integration of NCD care into these programs remains inadequate. This study aimed to describe the risk factors for NCDs and evaluate the control rates of three-month NCD preventive efforts among PLHIV attending the Care and Treatment Clinic (CTC) at Temeke Regional Referral Hospital (RRH).
Materials and methods
This was a mixed methods study in which a cross-sectional approach was utilized to identify hypertension risk factors among PLHIV attending Temeke RRH in January 2020 and pre- and postintervention follow-ups were used to assess NCD control rates from February to April 2020. The survey included interviews, secondary data review, and blood pressure and glucose screening using the STEPwise approach of the World Health Organization (WHO) STEPS surveillance tool for NCDs. Data analysis was performed using the STATA tool, employing logistic regression to ascertain risk factors. Patients diagnosed with hypertension, increased blood glucose, or both were enrolled in an intervention program to receive NCD-related preventive health education. Blood pressure and blood glucose levels were re-evaluated at the end of the intervention. Control rates were assessed using paired t tests.
Results:
A total of 333 PLHIV were interviewed; 71 (21.32%) were diagnosed with hypertension, and 2.70% had high blood sugar levels. Among the total interviewees, 177 (53.15%) had never had their blood pressure (BP) measured before, and among them, 37 (20.90%) were diagnosed with hypertension. Within the cohort group of 76 patients, 71 had hypertension, 26 (36.6%) of whom were effectively controlled at the end of the intervention. Among the 9 PLHIV with high blood glucose levels, 5 (55.5%) achieved a normal blood sugar level.
Conclusion:
The burden of undiagnosed NCDs among PLHIV attending the care and treatment clinic at Temeke RRH is notably high. Interventions aimed at addressing these NCDs appear to be effective