Assessing healthcare satisfaction and prevalence of diabetes andhypertension among older adults living with HIV in Eastern Uganda: across-sectional study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: The use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the management of HIV/AIDS has greatly increased the life expectancy of people living with HIV. However, longer life spans have been accompanied by a growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This study assessed healthcare satisfaction and the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension among older adults living with HIV (50 years and above) at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in Eastern Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH) involving 400 HIV-positive patients aged more than 50 years on ART. The sociodemographic information, ART history, and comorbidities were obtained. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of comorbidities. Results: The prevalence of DM and HTN were 28.3% and 27.1%, respectively. Participants aged ≥64 years had significantly higher odds of HTN (AOR: 2.25; 95% CI: 1.27–3.19; p = 0.029). Changing ART regimens three or more times was associated with HTN (AOR: 2.55; 95% CI: 1.08–4.73; p = 0.015). Living 6–10 km from a health facility increased the odds of DM (AOR: 5.46; 95% CI: 1.12–26.54; p = 0.044). Overall, 91% of the participants reported satisfaction with the healthcare received. Conclusion: DM and HTN are highly prevalent among older adults living with HIV in Eastern Uganda and are associated with advanced age, ART regimen changes, and healthcare access challenges. The integration of NCD screening and management into HIV care are key for improving long-term outcomes in this population.