Michael Sarfo-Appiah

Ghana

Serum Vitamin C Among People Living with HIV and Undergoing Antiretroviral Therapy at New Edubiase and Ejisu Government Hospitals, Ghana

Michael Sarfo-Appaih1, Alexander Kwarteng1,2

1. Department of Biochemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
2. Kumasi Center for Collaborative Research, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana

Abstract

Background

As HIV replication and CD4+ T cell depletion trigger oxidative stress and immune vulnerability, the potential of vitamin C as an antioxidant and immune modulator gains significance. The study delves into the dynamic interplay between vitamin C and the immune system of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) on antiretroviral therapy at Ejisu and New Edubiase government hospitals in Ghana. The main aim of the study was to illuminate a comprehensive understanding of the intricate associations amongst nutritional knowledge, vitamin C intake, serum levels of Vitamin C, and viral loads

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, using both convenience and simple random sampling, 92 HIV-positive individuals were recruited. Data was collected through a structured interview guide, and also some anthropometric (height, weight, BMI), biochemical (serum vitamin C), and dietary assessments (a 2-day 24-hour recall and MDD) were considered.

Results

Among 92 participants, 25% were males and 75% females, mostly aged 35–49 years (47.9%), with 42.4% educated to Junior High School. Median diagnosis duration was 1–3 years (42.4%), and 88% were on TLD. Significant gender-based differences were found in height, total body fat, and muscle mass. Despite most participants consuming adequate vitamin C, 58% had serum levels below the reference range. Median caloric intake was 1766 Kcal and fat 48g; vitamins A, C, and E were 171 µg, 110 mg, and 5 mg respectively, with vitamins A and E below recommended levels. Underweight, overweight, and obesity were 12%, 21.4%, and 14.1%. No associations were found between nutritional knowledge, vitamin C intake, and serum levels.

Conclusions

The findings from this study suggest that the vitamin C consumed did not affect the viral loads; however, serum vitamin C levels may have been affected by either the disease condition, leading to more losses, or probably some other confounding factors.