This study suggests that osteoporosis, unfavourable body composition, sexual dysfunction and reduced quality of life are seen in patients receiving androgen deprivation therapy for at least 12 months. Longitudinal studies in this patient population will shed further light on the timing of the development and the extent of these complications. Meanwhile, this information will assist both physicians and patients with prostate cancer to make informed decisions regarding androgen deprivation therapy.

Micronutrient deficiencies may be common during human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Insufficient dietary intake, malabsorption, diarrhoea, and impaired storage and altered metabolism of micronutrients can contribute to the development of micronutrient deficiencies. Low plasma or serum levels of vitamins A, E, B6, B12 and C, carotenoids, Se, and Zn are common in many HIV-infected populations. Micronutrient deficiencies may contribute to the pathogenesis of HIV infection through increased oxidative stress and compromised immunity. Low levels or intakes of micronutrients such as vitamins A, E, B6 and B12, Zn and Se have been associated with adverse clinical outcomes during HIV infection, and new studies are emerging which suggest that micronutrient supplementation may help reduce morbidity and mortality during HIV infection.

We have developed an alternative to the existing approach of adapting western function instruments to other cultures and situations. The field trials have demonstrated that this approach is rapid, feasible and can yield valid and reliable instruments. Developing instruments locally avoids the problems of limited local relevance and appropriateness associated with adapting western instruments. Although each instrument created in this way is culturally bound, they are "cross-cultural" in the sense that each refers to the tasks most important to local people. This approach should prove useful for both researchers and aid agencies working in non-western countries.

Metabolic syndrome is mostly diagnosed through low HDL and high triglycerides in HIV. The risk of developing the syndrome is related to HIV, specific medications, and body fat.