Description
Background: The rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly hypertension, among people living with HIV (PLHIV) presents a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. HIV–hypertension comorbidity worsens treatment burden, increases healthcare costs, and undermines quality of life. Understanding the demographic and clinical factors associated with this dual burden is essential for guiding integrated HIV–NCD care. This study examined socio-demographic and clinical determinants of HIV–hypertension comorbidity among PLHIV in Western Kenya.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 368 PLHIV receiving care in selected health facilities. Data on socio-demographic, lifestyle, and clinical characteristics were collected using structured questionnaires and medical record reviews. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of HIV–hypertension comorbidity. Variables with p < 0.20 in bivariate analysis were included in adjusted models.
Results: The prevalence of HIV–hypertension comorbidity was notable within the study population at 27%. Multivariate analysis revealed that higher monthly income (≥40,000 Ksh) was the strongest predictor, with participants nearly four times more likely to have comorbidity compared to lower-income groups (AOR = 3.78; 95% CI: 2.12–6.74; p < 0.001). Being married or cohabiting increased the odds of comorbidity by 55% compared to being single (AOR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.03–2.33; p = 0.036). A history of smoking independently elevated the risk (AOR = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.02–2.67; p = 0.041). In contrast, longer antiretroviral therapy (ART) duration (>5 years) was protective, reducing the odds of comorbidity by 65% (AOR = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.23–0.54; p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Targeted interventions including smoking cessation, intensified screening for high-risk groups, and sustained ART adherence are recommended to mitigate comorbidity risks. Strengthening integrated HIV–NCD care services is critical to improve health outcomes and quality of life for PLHIV in Kenya.
Keywords: HIV infections, hypertension, comorbidity, logistic regression, socioeconomic factors, Kenya
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Academic Institution |
| Received a Grant? | No |
