Nutritional status of HIV-infected women with tuberculosis in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

SettingTuberculosis (TB) treatment clinics in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.ObjectiveTo quantify anthropometrics and intake of en-ergy and protein among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive women with TB.DesignHIV-positive women with newly diagnosed TB were assessed on their anthropometric characteristics and dietary intake. Energy and protein intake were determined using Tanzania food composition tables and compared with standard recommendations. Patients were re-evaluated after 4-6 months of anti-tuberculosis treatment.ResultsAmong 43 women, the baseline median CD4 count was 209 cells/µl (range 8-721); 19 (44%) had a CD4 count of ConclusionHIV-positive women with TB have substantial 24-h deficits in energy and protein intake, report significant food insecurity and gain minimal weight on anti-tuberculosis treatment. Enhanced dietary education together with daily supplementation of 1000 kcal with 40 g protein may be required.