Population-Based Analysis of Synergistic Effects of Functional Disability and Comorbidities on Retention in HIV Care Among People With HIV.

ObjectiveThis cross-sectional study examined how types of disability and comorbidities influence retention in care (RIC) among people with HIV (PWH) in Houston/Harris County, Texas, USA.MethodsData from 1142 participants in the Houston Medical Monitoring Project (2015-2021) were analyzed. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and multivariable logistic regression were used to evaluate factors associated with RIC.ResultsApproximately 74.9% of participants were retained in care. Compared to PWH without specific comorbidities, those with dyslipidemia and kidney disease had higher odds of RIC (AOR: 2.66; 95% CI: 1.40-5.03 and AOR: 14.08; 95% CI: 1.44-138.12, respectively). PWH reporting only mobility disability had increased odds of RIC (AOR: 3.40; 95% CI: 1.33-8.71), while those reporting only visual disability had reduced odds of RIC (AOR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.16-0.87). Durable viral suppression was strongly associated with greater RIC (AOR: 7.96; 95% CI: 5.28-11.99).ConclusionComorbidities and disability types significantly influence retention in HIV care. Tailored interventions are needed to improve RIC among PWH, particularly those with visual disabilities.