Anemia Prevalence and Related Factors in HIV-Infected Patients: A Cohort Study

Background and Objective: Anemia is a common manifestation of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, occurring in approximately 30% of patients with asymptomatic infection andin as many as 75% to 80% of those with AIDS. Anemia has been associated with decreased qualityof life and decreased survival. In this study we aimed to determine the prevalence and relatedfactors of anemia in HIV-infected patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 143 HIV positive patients who referred to behavioral disease consulting center in Tehran were screened for anemia. Mild to moderate anemia was defined ashemoglobin (Hb) 8-14g/dl for men and 8-12g/dl for women; severe anemia was defined as Hb less than 8g/dl for both males and females. sociodemographic data were collected using a questionnaire. In all patients, CD4 lymphocytes counting were done by flowcytometry.Results: It was found out that 143 HIV positive patients with a mean age of 37.1± 2 years were enrolled in our study. The mean Hb level was 13.5 ± 2.1 g/dl. Mild anemia occurred in 46% ofsubjects while severe anemia was not observed. There was not any significant difference betweenpatients with and without anemia regarding age, gender, stage of the infection, CD4 cells count and concurrent anti-retroviral therapy. We also found significant difference between anemia and risk behaviors for HIV acquisition.