Introduction and Objectives Nutritional assessment in individuals infected with HIV-1 holds significance as it allows for indirect monitoring of physiological and morphological changes, identification of nutritional risks, and effective intervention to maintain or restore nutritional status. This, in turn, contributes to enhancing the quality of life for this population. This study aims to establish a connection between self-image perceptions and body composition, biochemical profiles, and the use of lipid-lowering medications among adults with HIV who are undergoing outpatient follow-up in São Paulo, Brazil.

Methods A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted involving 231 adults, both on and off antiretroviral drugs. The study subjectively assessed two aspects: (1) alterations in the redistribution of body fat (referred to as self-reported lipodystrophy) and (2) self-perceptions of body image. These variables were subsequently correlated with the individuals' self-perceived body image.

Results The study included 67% (n = 154) men and 33% (n = 77) women, with 28.5% (n = 66) having been exposed to some form of protease inhibitor. Among the participants, 40% (n = 98) perceived alterations in the redistribution of body fat (lipodystrophy). Notable changes included fat loss in the face, arms, thighs, and buttocks (p = 0.004, 0.006, 0.001, and 0.001, respectively), along with increased waistlines (p = 0.001), prominent veins (p = 0.001), and the presence or increase of lipomas (p = 0.046).

Conclusion A positive correlation was observed between the use of lipid-lowering medications and self-perceptions of body image. In this study, anthropometric and biochemical parameters proved more effective in assessing changes in the distribution of body fat among people living with HIV/AIDS compared to the subjective self-reported method.

L.R.S. and J.C. participated in the preparation of the research project and the collection, analysis, and discussion of the data, as well as the writing of the manuscript. L.V.A.S., G.L.V., and F.L.A.F. participated in the preparation of the research project and the analysis and discussion of the data, as well as the writing and editing of the final manuscript. G.L.V. contribution: read and reviewed the final version of the manuscript. T.G. and B.C.A.A. reviewed the final version of the article.

The study was approved by the Ethical Committee of Hospital de Clinicas, protocol number: 0221/07.

All patients signed an informed consent form.

Article published online:
29 September 2023

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