Income Generation, Food and Nutrient Security for Improved Livelihoods and Health Outcomes Among HIV-Positive, Kenya

Undernutrition remains a critical challenge among people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to high morbidity and mortality despite access to antiretroviral therapy. Globally, approximately 1.8 billion PLWHIV are affected by undernutrition. HIV infection and nutritional deficiencies increase nutrient requirements, impaired intake, and reduce nutrient utilization, causing weight loss and micronutrient deficiencies. Kisumu County has the second-highest HIV prevalence in the country. Kisumu West Sub-County serves a large population of PLWHIV in a resource-limited setting, where access to adequate nutrition remains a major challenge. This study evaluated the impact of cassava-simsim granules and nutrition education on the nutritional status of HIV seropositive adults in Kisumu West Sub-County, Kenya. Specific objectives were to assess nutritional status and nutrient intake of participants, determine nutrient levels, microbial load, and acceptability of cassava -simsim granules. A quasi-experimental design was adopted. Sample size was determined using a statistical formula by Bolarinwa (2020). A total of 64 moderately malnourished HIV-seropositive adults (BMI of > 16 kg/m2 - < 18.5 kg/m2) aged 19 -50 years were enrolled, with 52 completing the 16-week intervention. Participants were purposively allocated to either intervention group (n = 32), which received cassava-simsim granules 230g/day plus nutrition education, or the control group (n = 32), which received nutrition education alone. Data on nutritional status, nutrient intake, and product acceptability were collected using a questionnaire. Serum iron, zinc, and selenium levels and nutrient levels in the product were analyzed using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS). Microbial load was determined using a conventional method, and sensory acceptability was evaluated using a 5-point hedonic scale. Nutrient intakes were analyzed in the NutriSurvey software. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, paired sample t-test, independent t-test, one-sample t-test, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Inclusion criteria

• HIV-seropositive adults aged 19 - 50 years
• Enrolled at the two study sites
• willing to consent to participate in the study
• Body Mass Index (BMI) of > 16 kg/m2 - < 18.5 kg/m2
• Hemoglobin levels 8g/dL - 12g/dL for non-pregnant women
• Hemoglobin levels 8g/dL - 13 g/dL for men

Exclusion criteria

• Severe acute malnutrition BMI of < 16 kg/m2
• Hemoglobin levels of < 8 g/dL
• Chronic conditions
• Pregnant mothers