Time: 2024-07-22
In the United States , there are now almost 300,000 people with HIV who are aged 60 and older , and most older people with HIV also have at least one non - AIDS - defining comorbidity . The most significant comorbidities in patients with HIV diagnosed early in the epidemic and are now in their 60s and 70s are cardiovascular events , kidney disease , liver disease , cancer , and bone - related diseases such as fractures and osteoporosis.
People living with HIV and non - communicable diseases ( NCDs ) often have to see different health providers for each condition , wait too long for their NCDs to be diagnosed , and take medication that can interact with one another . This issue highlights the need for better integration of healthcare services for individuals with multiple health conditions , such as HIV , hypertension , and diabetes.
Kenyan Domitilah Anyango Okeymo shared her experience of having to visit two different clinics for her HIV and hypertension , while Serah Mbovi Makau expressed the desire to be treated holistically in one clinic . Moreover , mental health struggles among people living with HIV were also highlighted , emphasizing the importance of mental health support and training for healthcare providers.
Many people with HIV reported that their other conditions were not promptly diagnosed by healthcare workers at HIV clinics . Indian Mona Balani emphasized the need for HIV - NCD service delivery integration to ensure that individuals with co - morbid conditions receive adequate care without facing discrimination or delays in diagnosis.
The NCD Alliance has developed 15 Transformative Solutions to provide contextually appropriate , person - centered information about NCDs and their risk factors for people living with HIV . This initiative aims to promote the meaningful involvement of individuals with NCDs in the healthcare response , addressing the challenges faced by those living with multiple health conditions.
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