Objectives: Cardiometabolic comorbidities have been associated with lower levels of physical activity (PA) among people living with HIV (PLWH). However, little is known about the longitudinal relationship between cardiometabolic comorbidities and PA participation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the longitudinal association between cardiometabolic comorbidities and PA in PLWH.
Methods: PLWH from New York City and with complete PA and cardiometabolic comorbidity data between December 2016 and October 2020 were included. PA was evaluated using energy expenditure from the Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPAQ). Body composition was measured using body mass index (BMI) and different waist circumference measures. Diabetes and hyperlipidemia were determined by physician diagnosis. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was evaluated through blood samples. Linear mixed-effects models analyses were conducted to assess the longitudinal relationship between cardiometabolic comorbidities and PA.
Results: A total of 164 participants (mean age 59.6 years; 48.2% females) were included. The mean follow-up period was 22.7 months (SD = 7.9). Higher BMI was associated with lower levels of PA in kcals/week (p < .05). An obese BMI was associated with lower levels of physical activity in kcals/week (p < .05). Higher mid-waist and umbilical circumference were associated with lower levels of PA in kcals/week (p < .05). Having hyperlipidemia was associated with lower levels of PA in kcals/week (p < .01). Having a diabetes diagnosis and elevated HbA1c were also associated with lower levels of PA in kcals/week (p < .05).
Conclusion: Cardiometabolic comorbidities can have repercussions on PA participation among PLWH, which can in turn increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality.
Keywords: Body composition; Exercise; Glucose; Lipids.
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