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Effect of plasma zinc levels on morbidity in HIV‐infected persons in Miami
Author(s) -
Garces Luis,
Campa Adriana,
Martinez Sabrina Sales,
Lai Shenghan,
Li Yinghui,
Page J Bryan,
Baum Marianna K
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.25.1_supplement.611.2
Objective Adequate zinc status is critical for immune function. The effects of zinc insufficiency on signs and symptoms in HIV+ adults have not been adequately explored. The objective of this study was to investigate the benefits of maintaining adequate plasma levels of zinc to prevent morbidity in HIV‐ disease. Methods After consenting 231 HIV+ adults, blood was drawn for plasma zinc levels, CD4 cell count and viral load, and physical examination and chart review conducted for demographics, morbidity and treatment history. Linear regression models, t‐tests, and relative risk analysis were used. Results Plasma levels of zinc showed significant association with anemia (β=−0.08, P<0.0001), diarrhea (β= −0.03, p=0.05) and depression (β= −0.04, p=0.0265) after controlling for CRP, but was not associated with upper or lower respiratory diseases. Conclusions Maintaining higher plasma zinc levels in HIV+ individuals was found beneficial. Lower plasma zinc levels were associated with higher rates of diarrhea, anemia, and depression. These findings suggest that adequate diet, combined with zinc supplementation in those patients who are deficient, might ameliorate some of these conditions. Supported by NIDA