Assessment of the Nutritional Status of Children on Arvs in the Prevention of Mother Transmission (PMTCT) Child Centers in the Ruashi Health Zone in Lubumbashi in Dr Congo

Introduction: HIV infection causes and promotes enormous nutritional deficits in children. The objective of this work was to analyze the nutritional status of children infected with HIV placed on antiretrovirals in the Ruashi Health Zone in Lubumbashi. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional descriptive study which focused on 51 children aged 3 months to 17 years selected in 8 care structures for People Living with HIV AIDS, from January to June 2016. Data was collected by documentary review and the usual descriptive statistics and anthropometric indicators were used. Result: The prevalence of overall malnutrition was 31.37% (n = 51) including 7.84% moderate malnutrition. The average weight is 19.25 kg with a minimum weight of 4.5 kg and a maximum of 49 kg. The overall prevalence of anemia (hemoglobin <11g / dl) was 9.8%. Wasting affected 3.92% of children and 7.84% were victims of chronic malnutrition. The prevalence of acute malnutrition was 25.48%, of which 3.92% was severe acute malnutrition. Immune deficiency (CD4 <350) in 5.88% of cases, undetectable viral load at 88.37% and treatment compliance at 92.16% Conclusion: HIV / AIDS affects the state of health of children in Ruashi with 31.37% overall malnutrition and 7.84% stunted growth. Good nutritional and therapeutic support for children is necessary.