Nutrition and HIV/AIDS: A Training Manual - Linkages Project

Why Measure?• To identify and track body composition changesover time and trends− Changes in weight− Changes in body cell mass and fat-free mass− Serum nutrient levels, cholesterol, etc.• To use results to design appropriate interventions• To address client concerns about their health• To meet increasing emphasis on physical nutritionassessment as part of clinical trialsWhat to Measure?• Anthropometry• Laboratory tests• Clinical assessments• Diet history and lifestyleAnthropometric Measurementsin HIV/AIDSTo assess and monitor weight• Weight and height• Percentage of weight and/or body mass indexchanges over timeTo assess and monitor body composition• Lean body mass• Body cell mass• Skinfold (triceps, biceps, mid-thigh)• Circumferences (waist, mid-upper arm, hips[buttocks], mid-thigh, breast size for women,neck circumferencve (buffalo hump])Laboratory Measurementsin HIV/AIDSTo assess and monitor nutrient levels• Serum micronutrients (e.g. retinol, zinc)• Haemoglobin (and ferritin)To assess and monitor body composition• Fasting blood sugar,• Lipid profiles (e.g., cholesterol andtriglycerides)• Serum insulinClinical Assessments in HIV/AIDSSymptoms and illnesses associatedwith HIV/AIDS• Diarrhea and vomiting• Fever (temperature)• Mouth and throat sores• Oral thrush• Muscle wasting• Fatigue and lethargy• Skin rashes• Edema• Palm pallorDiet History in HIV/AIDS24-hour food consumption or foodfrequency recalls can be used (in theabsence of acute food stress) to assess• Types and amounts of food eaten (includingfood access and utilization and food handling)• Use of supplements and medications• Factors affecting food intake (appetite, eatingpatterns, medication side effects, lifestyle,taboos, hygiene, psychological factors, stigma,economic factors)