HIV medications have revolutionized the management of the disease, enabling millions to live longer and healthier lives. However, research indicates that women experience more adverse side effects than men, particularly concerning weight gain. This discrepancy has led experts to call for further studies on how different antiretroviral therapies (ARVs) affect women’s bodies.
Among the various side effects of HIV medications, weight gain has emerged as a significant issue, especially for women. Studies have shown that women are more prone to gaining weight upon initiating ARV treatment than men. The pattern of weight gain also differs, with women tending to accumulate fat primarily in the limbs and trunk.
Dr. Loice Ombajo, head of the infectious disease unit at Kenyatta National Hospital, highlighted a concerning case:
“A patient was put on antiretroviral therapy in 2021, but by last year had gained 40kg. She says, ‘I can’t find a dress that fits me.’ That’s the reality we have to face. We have to think of how we transition women facing weight gain.”
This excessive weight gain has been linked to both metabolic changes caused by ARVs and hormonal differences in women. As a result, some women opt to discontinue their medication due to the psychological and physical discomfort associated with rapid weight increase.
The second edition of the African Workshop on Women & HIV, held in Nairobi, emphasized the need for better HIV treatment strategies that consider the unique physiological responses of women.
Dr. Ombajo noted that 76% of all HIV-positive women worldwide reside in sub-Saharan Africa, with Kenya having a disproportionately high number of cases. According to the Kenya HIV Estimates 2023, of the 1.4 million people living with HIV in Kenya, approximately 890,747 are women.
“Current drug regimens are efficacious, but we need more data on side effects,” Ombajo said.
Professor Elizabeth Bukusi, a chief research officer at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), echoed this sentiment, stressing that while all medications have side effects, it is crucial to find those that minimize discomfort to encourage adherence to treatment.
“No matter what you take, they always will have some side effects. The question is, can we find those that minimize the impact to make it easier for people to take them?” she posed.
While the focus has been on how ARVs affect women, experts also emphasize the role of men in ensuring treatment adherence among their female partners.
“Men play an important role. They’re partners in this because a woman who can’t disclose her status to her husband will have difficulty staying on treatment,” Bukusi explained.
Encouraging male partners to be more involved in HIV treatment programs can help foster a more supportive environment, ultimately improving adherence rates and treatment outcomes for women.
Kenya continues to make progress in HIV treatment, with approximately 1.378 million people living with the virus. The country boasts an impressive 97% treatment coverage through a network of 3,752 treatment sites.
However, challenges remain, particularly concerning high-risk groups. Dr. Ruth Laibon-Masha, CEO of the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), revealed that while Kenya’s national HIV prevalence rate stands at 3.3%, it soars to 18.7% among people who inject drugs.
These statistics underscore the need for a more tailored approach to HIV treatment one that acknowledges gender differences and addresses the unique challenges faced by women.
While HIV medications have undoubtedly transformed the lives of those living with the virus, the gendered side effects, particularly weight gain among women, pose significant challenges. Urgent research is needed to identify alternative treatment options with fewer adverse effects. Furthermore, fostering a supportive environment where women feel comfortable disclosing their status to male partners can play a crucial role in improving treatment adherence.
With Kenya leading efforts in HIV treatment, addressing these concerns will be vital in ensuring better health outcomes for women living with HIV.
