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Abstract

The global burden of HIV/AIDS, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, is compounded by malnutrition, which accelerates disease progression despite advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART). This study evaluated the impact of a nutrition education intervention on the nutritional status and clinical indices of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) at Namong SDA Hospital in Ghana. Sixty PLWHA were randomized into intervention and non-intervention groups. The intervention included individualized nutrition education sessions focused on dietary diversity, macronutrient and micronutrient intake, and the use of locally available foods. Baseline data revealed significant gaps in nutritional knowledge, with 91.7% of participants demonstrating low knowledge about the relationship between nutrition and HIV. Dietary inadequacies were widespread, particularly for iron, zinc, and Vitamin E, with 100% of participants falling below the recommended intake for Vitamin E. Post-intervention results showed significant improvements in dietary practices within the intervention group, with higher mean intakes of protein (47.9 ± 12.8 mg vs. 42.5 ± 12.7 mg), Vitamin C (97.4 ± 31.2 mg vs. 75.6 ± 32.6 mg), and selenium (55.1 ± 21.2 mg vs. 32.8 ± 13.5 mg), though statistical significance was not achieved for most indices. Trends toward improved clinical outcomes, including serum albumin and CD4 counts, were observed but did not reach significance. The findings highlight the potential of culturally tailored nutrition education in addressing nutritional deficiencies and improving dietary practices among PLWHA. Future research should explore the long-term impact of such interventions, integrating supplementation and systemic support to enhance clinical outcomes in resource-limited settings.

Keywords

Nutrition Education HIV/AIDS Nutritional Status Clinical Indices Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)

Article Details

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How to Cite
Ngmensoa, G. (2024). Impact of Nutrition Education on Nutritional Status and Clinical Indices among People Living with HIV/AIDS: A Randomized Controlled Trial at Namong SDA Hospital, Ghana. Convergence Chronicles, 5(6), 43–52. https://doi.org/10.53075/Ijmsirq/65543876876
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