406P
LIPODYSTROPHY THE NEW FACE OF AIDS
Y Jalbert
CPAVIH, Montréal, Québec
Objective: To describe the impact of lipodystrophy among HIV-positive people in the province of Québec and its consequences on their lives.
Methods: The sociodemographic, serologic, physical modifications and social impacts of antiretroviral consumption by HIV-positive people was assessed using a questionnaire distributed by AIDS community-based organizations throughout Québec from September 2003 to May 2004.
Results: A total of 209 questionnaires were returned by HIV-positive respondents, 186 of which were analyzed (158 men and 28 women). The respondents had the following characteristics: 80.1% were aged between 36 and 55 years, 74.2% were homosexuals, 69.9% lived in Montreal, 53.8% lived alone, 30.6% were working, 50.5% were symptomatic, 57.5% had been HIV+ for more then 13 years, 88.7% were taking antiretrovirals drugs, 70.4% had been taking HIV drugs for more than seven years, 47.3% had started taking HIV drugs before 1996. In addition, 20.4% said that their weight had not changed, 95.2% noticed a change in their physical appearance, 84.4% had noticed the change over a year previously, 80.1% said that they had lipodystrophy, 92.5% said that they had lipoatrophy, and 59.7% said that they suffered from lipoaccumulation. According to the respondents, the face (83.3%), the buttocks (82.3%), the legs (76.9%), the stomach (68.8%), the arms (60.2%), and the breasts (32.3%) were most affected by lipodystrophy. Despite the lipodystrophy, 84.9% still took their medication, but 66.7% said they were depressed, 84.9% said that it affected their self-esteem, 75.3% said that they stood out more, 67.7% said that people looked at them differently, 65.6% were uncomfortable cruising, 70.4% were uncomfortable undressing around people, 55.9% did not want to be photographed, 71.0% were having fewer sexual encounters, 83.3% felt less desirable, and 28.5% had suicidal thoughts.
Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that HIV-positive people with lipodystrophy suffered greatly, both psychologically and socially.