Zinc levels in HIV‑positive children at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Zinc is an abundant trace element in the body involved in many physiological processes. Its deficiency has been described in HIV‑infected children, especially in advancing illness. This study, therefore, seeks to assess zinc levels in HIV‑positive children attending the HIV clinic at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH). Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive, cross‑sectional study among HIV‑positive children aged 5–60 months attending the HIV clinic at UNTH. A100 participants were enrolled from August 2013 to May 2014. Data were obtained using a pro forma developed by researchers, and blood samples were collected and analysed using an absorption spectrophotometer. Serum zinc level deficiency was defined as the values <80 ìg/dL. Data analysis was conducted using the SPSS version 26. Results: Most participants were males (53.0%). Their mean age was 47 months (standard deviation = 15.7). The median serum zinc level was 55.5 ìg/dL (IQR = 35.0–84.8). The majority of the participant (72%) had zinc deficiency. There was a statistically significant relationship between serum zinc level and participants’ socioeconomic status (P < 0.05) – higher socioeconomic status was associated with higher zinc levels. Conclusion: The study showed a high prevalence of zinc deficiency in children living with HIV, with a significant relationship between serum zinc level and the participants’ socioeconomic status. There is a need for zinc supplementation for HIV children, especially the indigent ones.