Cross-sectional analysis of a cohort of people over 65 years of age living with HIV

Introduction

This study aims to describe and analyze the characteristics of aged people who are living with HIV (APHIV) and evaluate their association on the comorbidities they currently have.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis of APHIV under active follow-up at the Infectious Diseases Unit of the University Clinical Hospital of Santiago de Compostela. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed, along with their association with the development of comorbidities in this population. A correlation and multiple linear regression analysis were performed for this purpose.

Results

Eighty-five APHIV, 65 males and 20 females, with an average age of 69 years (IQR 8) and a duration of living with HIV of 17 years (SD 7), were studied. 41% of them had their initial diagnosis with AIDS. The most common comorbidities are hypertension and dyslipidemia in 55% and 52%, respectively. 40% of APHIV take at least 5 medications. 35% have received more than 5 lines of antiretroviral treatment. At the time of analysis, all APHIV have an undetectable viral load. No significant association was observed between the number of comorbidities and various characteristics of APHIV; however, a weak correlation was noted among age, the cumulative number of antiretroviral treatments received throughout their lives, and the number of comorbidities.

Conclusions

This analysis highlights the substantial burden of comorbidities and polypharmacy experienced by APHIV. Further studies are needed to better understand the characteristics and variables influencing their development.