Prevalence of diabetes mellitus among HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy at Kawaala Health Centre IV, Kampala District

Abstract

Background: Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has improved the life expectancy of PLHIV and has increased the risk of chronic NCDs. Comorbid HIV and diabetes mellitus (DM) significantly increase cardiovascular disease and mortality risk. Purpose of the Study: To determine the prevalence of DM among HIV patients on ART at Kawaala Health Centre IV, Kampala district. Objectives: The study aimed at determining the prevalence of DM, its associated risk factors, and level of knowledge regarding DM among HIV patients on ART at Kawaala HC IV. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV patients on ART at Kawaala HC IV. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit 69 HIV patients undergoing HAART. Blood samples from each participant were collected and analyzed using Glucose oxidase strip technique purposely to determine the prevalence of DM. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to assess the risk factors associated with DM and level of knowledge regarding DM. Data was analyzed manually and tallied with use of Microsoft word and excel computer programs. Results: Of the 69 participants included in this study, 6 (8.7%) were diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, 63 were not diabetic and none was found pre-diabetic. HIV/DM comorbidity was more prevalent in patients who were female (66.7%), aged 39-58 years (66.6%), and urban residents (83.3%). Risk factors associated with DM were being female, age 39-58 years, urban residence, no formal education and physical exercise, having been on HAART for more than 5 years, and hypertension comorbidity: The level of knowledge regarding diabetes mellitus was generally low. Conclusion: Prevalence of DM was 8.7% and higher among females, age group 38- 39 years, urban residents, with no education and addressing the identified associated risk factors.