Diabetes in HIV: the Link to Weight Gain

Curr HIV/AIDS Rep. 2023 Feb;20(1):9-18. doi: 10.1007/s11904-022-00642-w. Epub 2022 Nov 23.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The burden of metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), is rising among persons with HIV (PWH) on antiretroviral therapy (ART). This increase coincides with an aging population and a greater proportion who are overweight/obese. This review summarizes the changing epidemic of T2DM on contemporary ART, the role of weight gain, and therapeutic options.

Recent findings: Recent studies confirm that PWH face an epidemic of obesity and T2DM, similar to the general population. Contemporary ART is associated with greater weight gain and may contribute to the risk of T2DM. Recent advances in medical weight loss therapy offer a way forward in the prevention and treatment of weight-associated T2DM. Weight gain is one of the biggest contributors to T2DM in PWH. Future studies on the role of adipose tissue distribution, adipose tissue function and clinical use of effective weight loss medications may change the paradigm of care for PWH.

Keywords: Human immunodeficiency virus; Obesity; Type 2 diabetes; Weight gain.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / complications
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections* / complications
  • HIV Infections* / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Obesity / complications
  • Obesity / epidemiology
  • Weight Gain
  • Weight Loss