Profiles of Elderly People Infected with HIV and Response to Antiretroviral Treatment in Burkina Faso: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND In sub-Saharan Africa, few studies exist on elderly HIV-positive populations. Therefore, we aimed to examine the profiles of elderly people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Burkina Faso and their response to antiretroviral therapy (ART). METHODS We reviewed the monitoring and treatment of PLHIV over the age of 50 years and then compared with the monitoring and treatment of PLHIV under 50 years. RESULTS A total of 3367 patients were included. The median age of elderly people was 54.5 years and of young people was 34.9 years ( P = .03). In both the groups, screening was performed following clinical suspicion (64.9% in elderly versus 56% in young people; P < .001). Cardiovascular risk factors were generally more significant in the elderly people. The risk of death while on ART was 2.3 times higher in elderly people ( P < .001). CONCLUSION HIV infection in older people occurs in those who already have some cardiovascular risk factors. Particular attention should be given to multidisciplinary care for the elderly individuals.