Clinical and sociodemographic factors of diabetes mellitus among people living with HIV in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Chronic comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus are a growing concern for people living with HIV, particularly in low and middle-income countries where it is also highly prevalent. However, there is a lack of synthesized evidence on factors of diabetes among people living with HIV in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aims to determine the clinical and sociodemographic factors of diabetes mellitus among people living with HIV. A comprehensive search was conducted from Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Science Direct, and African Journal Online. This search adhered to the PRISMA 2020 guideline and was conducted as of July 18, 2024. The quality of included articles was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The R software with the Meta package was utilized for meta-analysis. The pooled estimations were performed using a random effects model. The pooled estimates with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals were presented using a forest plot. Results from 12 studies indicated that the pooled prevalence of diabetes among people living with HIV was 8.0% (95% CI: 7.0, 9.0). Various factors were identified as factors of diabetes in this population. Older age, higher education level, body mass index(BMI) > 25 kg/m2, longer duration of antiretroviral therapy (ART), hypertension, high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, obesity, and high levels of triglycerides were significant factors of diabetes mellitus. The pooled prevalence of diabetes among people living with HIV is higher than the national prevalence. Older age, higher education level, BMI > 25 kg/m2, longer duration on ART, hypertension, LDL cholesterol, obesity, and high levels of triglycerides were factors of diabetes. Interventions should prioritize older individuals and those with higher education levels who also have hypertension. By focusing on these specific groups, we can improve the management and prevention of diabetes among people living with HIV.