Factors Associated with Diet Quality in Middle-Aged and Older Adults with HIV: Insights from the PROSPER-HIV study

Improved diet quality is increasingly important for comorbidities management and healthy aging in people with HIV (PWH). Yet, limited data exist on dietary patterns and their correlates in this population. This study aimed to (1) characterize dietary patterns among adult PWH and (2) identify demographic, clinical, and HIV-related factors associated with diet quality.

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of PWH enrolled in the PROSPER-HIV study across four U.S. academic medical centers. Dietary intake was assessed using three 24-hour dietary recalls and scored using the Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015). Participants were categorized into tertiles based on total HEI-2015 scores. Between-group comparisons were performed using Kruskal-Wallis and chi-square tests. Factors independently associated with HEI-2015 scores were identified using multivariable linear regression.

A total of 491 PWH were included with a median age of 54 years; 76.4% were male. Overall diet quality was low with inadequate intake of dietary protein, fiber, and micronutrients. When classified by tertiles of HEI-2015 score, higher diet quality was characterized by greater intake of fiber, protein, and key micronutrients. Older age was independently associated with higher HEI-2015 scores (β = 0.119, p = 0.018), while Black race was associated with lower scores (β = -3.427, p = 0.008). Full-time employment and absence of current pain were marginally associated with better diet quality.

Diet quality among PWH varies substantially and is influenced by age, race, and social determinants. Tailored nutritional strategies are needed to support healthy aging and reduce disparities in this population.