Abstract:
Setting: Tuberculosis (TB) treatment clinics in Dar es
Salaam, Tanzania.
Objective: To quantify anthropometrics and intake of energy
and protein among human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) positive women with TB.
Design: HIV-positive women with newly diagnosed TB
were assessed on their anthropometric characteristics and
dietary intake. Energy and protein intake were determined
using Tanzania food composition tables and compared with
standard recommendations. Patients were re-evaluated
after 4–6 months of anti-tuberculosis treatment.
Results: Among 43 women, the baseline median CD4
count was 209 cells/μl (range 8–721); 19 (44%) had a
CD4 count of <200; 20 (47%) were on antiretroviral therapy.
Body mass index was <18.5 kg/m2 in 25 (58%); the
median food insecurity score was 6. The median level of
kcal/day was 1693 (range 1290–2633) compared to an
estimated need of 2658; the median deficit was 875 kcal
(range −65–1278). The median level of protein/day was
42 g (range 27–67) compared to 77 g estimated need;
the median protein deficit was 35 g (range 10–50). The
median weight gain among 29 patients after 4–6 months
was 6 kg.
Conclusion: HIV-positive women with TB have substantial
24-h deficits in energy and protein intake, report significant
food insecurity and gain minimal weight on antituberculosis
treatment. Enhanced dietary education
together with daily supplementation
