Brief Description
People living with HIV are at an increased risk for a range of comorbidities due to the virus itself, the long-term effects of antiretroviral therapy, and lifestyle factors. Common comorbidities include cardiovascular disease, liver disease, kidney disease, certain cancers, among others. These conditions can complicate HIV management and adversely affect the quality of life and life expectancy. Integrated care that addresses both HIV and its associated comorbidities is vital for optimizing health outcomes for individuals living with HIV.
1. Mental health
The intersection between HIV and mental health is a critical area of study, as individuals living with HIV often face significant psychological challenges. These can include depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments, which may be exacerbated by the stigma and discrimination associated with the condition. Mental health issues can also impact adherence to HIV treatment, complicating disease management. Conversely, pre-existing mental health disorders can increase the risk of acquiring HIV due to behaviors like unprotected sex and substance abuse. Comprehensive care approaches that address both HIV and mental health are essential for improving overall health outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.
a) A cross-sectional evaluation of depression, coping strategies, and adherence to antiretroviral therapy as determinants of quality of life among persons living with HIV in northwestern Nigeria
List of contributing members: A. Abba, A. Isah D.O. Aluh, C Nwachuya, M.O Adibe
Presented at International Conference on HIV Treatment, Pathogenesis, and Prevention Research (INTEREST) held in Benin Republic from 14th to 17th May, 2024.
b). “What if I become HIV positive?”: stigma, relationship concerns, and coping strategies among young people in government-mandated service corps in Nigeria—a cross-sectional study
List of contributing members: G. Ezenri , U.V. Onwuali, N.A. Okibe, J. Onyehalu, C. Idabor, C. Nwachuya, A. Isah
Presented at International Conference on HIV Treatment, Pathogenesis, and Prevention Research (INTEREST) held in Benin Republic from 14th to 17th May, 2024.
c). A Cross-sectional assessment of mental health, perceived risks, and actual risks of acquisition of HIV among female sex workers in a Nigerian semi-urban community
List of contributing members: D. Ugwu, A. Isah , J. Onyehalu, C. Nwachuya, G. Ezenri , B. Eze, C. Idabor, A. Ugwuja I. Ekwueme, C. Ukwe, J. Ugwuani
Presented at the 25th International AIDS Society (IAS) Conference held in Germany from 22nd to 26th July, 2024
d). Ten years on antiretroviral therapy: a cross-sectional assessment of depression prevalence and coping strategies among treatment-experienced persons living with HIV in a Nigerian teaching hospital
List of contributing members: A. Isah, E.J. Ugochukwu, C.M. Amoke, D.O. Aluh, G. Ezenri, C. Nwachuya, J. Onyehalu, C. Idabor, C.J. Ugwuani, U. Okafor , C.V. Ukwe
Presented at International Conference on HIV Treatment, Pathogenesis, and Prevention Research (INTEREST) held in Benin Republic from 14th to 17th May, 2024.
2. Breast Cancer
a). Living with HIV and breast cancer co-morbidity: A systematic review of the efficacy and safety of chemotherapeutic approaches among women in low- and middle-income countries
· List of contributing members: C. Nwachuya, A. Isah, G. Ezenri, U. Okafor, J. Onyehalu, C. Chukwudi, E. Ugochukwu, V. Okafor, C. Idabor, K. Pepala, C. Ukwe
· Presented at International Conference on HIV Treatment, Pathogenesis, and Prevention Research (INTEREST) held in Benin Republic from 14th to 17th May, 2024.