Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care (Jul 2017)

Profiles of Elderly People Infected with HIV and Response to Antiretroviral Treatment in Burkina Faso: A Retrospective Cohort Study

  • Ismaël Diallo MD,
  • Nicolas Meda MD,
  • Smaïla Ouédraogo MD,
  • Armel Poda MD,
  • Arsène Hema MD,
  • Yempabou Sagna MD,
  • Lynda M. Sawadogo MD,
  • Youssouf J. Drabo MD,
  • Dieu-Donné Ouedraogo MD

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/2325957417709088
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 16

Abstract

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Background: In sub-Saharan Africa, few studies exist on elderly HIV-positive populations. Therefore, we aimed to examine the profiles of elderly people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Burkina Faso and their response to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Methods: We reviewed the monitoring and treatment of PLHIV over the age of 50 years and then compared with the monitoring and treatment of PLHIV under 50 years. Results: A total of 3367 patients were included. The median age of elderly people was 54.5 years and of young people was 34.9 years ( P = .03). In both the groups, screening was performed following clinical suspicion (64.9% in elderly versus 56% in young people; P < .001). Cardiovascular risk factors were generally more significant in the elderly people. The risk of death while on ART was 2.3 times higher in elderly people ( P < .001). Conclusion: HIV infection in older people occurs in those who already have some cardiovascular risk factors. Particular attention should be given to multidisciplinary care for the elderly individuals.