Abstract:
Background. The increased caloric requirements of HIVpositive
individuals, undesirable side effects of treatment
that may be worsened by malnutrition (but alleviated
by nutritional support), and associated declines in
adherence and possible increased drug resistance are
all justifications for developing better interventions to
strengthen the nutrition security of individuals receiving
antiretroviral treatment.
Objective. To highlight key benefits and challenges
relating to interventions aimed at strengthening the
nutrition security of people living with HIV who are
receiving antiretroviral treatment.
Methods. Qualitative research was undertaken on a
short-term nutrition intervention linked to the provision
of free antiretroviral treatment for people living with HIV
in western Kenya in late 2005 and early 2006.
Results. Patients enrolled in the food program while
on treatment regimens self-reported greater adherence
to their medication, fewer side effects, and a greater
ability to satisfy increased appetite. Most clients selfreported
weight gain, recovery of physical strength, and
the resumption of labor activities while enrolled in dual
(food supplementation and treatment) programs. Such
improvements were seen to catalyze increased support
from family and community.
Conclusions. These findings provide further empirical
support to calls for a more holistic and comprehensive
response to the coexistence of AIDS epidemics with
chronic nutrition insecurity. Future work is needed to
clarify ways of bridging the gap between short-term
nutritional support to individuals and longer-term livelihood
security programming for communities affected
by AIDS. Such interdisciplinary research will need to be
matched by intersectoral action on the part of the agriculture
and health sectors in such environments.
