The HIV/AIDS pandemic has a significant impact on nutritional status. HIV/AIDS causes reduced food intake, mal-absorption and increased demand for nutrients in PLWHA. As a result malnutrition occurs. Malnutrition, in turn, impairs the immune system leading to opportunistic infections and less food intake. Malnutrition in PLWHA manifests itself in weight loss, muscle wasting, mineral and vitamin deficiencies, reduced immune competence and increased susceptibility to infection. When a person with malnutrition acquires HIV, the progression to AIDS is faster compared to that in a well-nourished person.[More]
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