Influence of Dietary Diversity and Its Associated Factors Among Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Infected Adult Patients Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction: Influence of dietary diversity is particularly concerning for individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), as they are more vulnerable to opportunistic infections. However, information on influence of dietary diversity in this study area remains scarce. Thus, this study aims to assess the influence of dietary diversity and its associated factors among HIV‐infected adults receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Ethiopia. Methods: An institution‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 412 participants between February and March 2023. Data were collected using an interviewer‐administered structured questionnaire and a standardized checklist for ART. Data entry was performed using EpiData Version 3.1, and analysis was conducted using STATA Version 25. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with dietary diversity, with adjusted odds ratios (AORs) reported at a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The proportion of patients with adequate dietary diversity was 218 (52.9%; 95% CI: 48.1–58). Factors significantly associated with dietary diversity included educational status (AOR: 0.414, 95% CI: 0.174–0.985), family size of 4–6 (AOR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.18–2.95), and WHO clinical stage III or IV (AOR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.09–2.34). Conclusions: The study found that nearly half of HIV‐infected adult patients had an undiversified diet. Occupation being housewives and drivers, educational status of unable to write and read, WHO advanced HIV stage III and IV, and family size of 4–6 were statically significant factors associated with undiversified diet. We strongly recommend that policymakers, researchers, and nongovernmental organizations collaborate to implement holistic nutritional interventions to address dietary challenges and improve the overall health of people living with HIV/AIDS.