Situational Analysis of Selected NCDs—Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension among PLHIV Attending ART Center of Tertiary Care Hospital in India: A Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

Background: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed the life of PLHIV with a longer life expectancy. The rising coexistence of non-communicable diseases (NCD)s especially type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN) among PLHIV (people living with HIV) is much more complicated and demanding for the health system, patients, and their families. To document the current status of type 2 DM and HTN among known diabetic/hypertensive PLHIV attending ART center, tertiary care hospital of South Gujarat. Materials and Methods: A mixed method study (cross-sectional survey followed by qualitative in-depth interview) was conducted among 184 PLHIV on ART with history of Type 2 DM and/or Hypertension who were registered and availing services from ART center, tertiary care hospital. Convenient sampling technique was used. All the participants were interviewed using pre-designed, semi-structured questionnaire, during their routine visits. In -depth interview (IDI) has been conducted to explore the delivery of NCD services at ART Centre. Results: Out of 184 PLHIV on ART, the most common co-morbidities were Type 2 DM (46.2%), HTN (39.13%), and 14.67% had both. Among total 184 participants, 64.1% were males and 35.9% were females. Only 22.3% of participants were availing treatment services for the above at tertiary care hospital. The study results showed a range of findings involving ART adherence, BMI, RBS, and BP measurements were included. IDI results described the NCD service delivery at ART Center. Conclusions: Study results suggest that the services received by PLHIV with NCD require an overhauling. Routine monitoring and strengthening of existing services should be focused to upgrade the quality and continuum of the care provided to PLHIV with NCD.