Prevalence of and factors associated with malnutrition among women receiving PMTCT care at public hospitals in Addis Ababa: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundHIV and malnutrition act synergistically to weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections, morbidity, and mortality. HIV destroys the body ability to fight infections, while malnutrition hinders recovery, accelerating the progression of AIDS related illnesses. This combination also undermines the adherence to and effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART), particularly in resource limited settings. Accordingly, this study assessed the prevalence of malnutrition and associated factors among women attending prevention of mother to child transmission programs in public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2024. MethodsA cross sectional study was undertaken from April 1st to 20th, 2024. The study enrolled 193 women receiving PMTCT care at six public hospitals in Addis Ababa, selected through a simple random sampling method. Data were collected via face to face interviews using a standardized, structured questionnaire. Additionally, participants mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), weight, and height were measured to assess nutritional status. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Binary logistic regression was employed to examine the strength of associations, with results expressed as odds ratios alongside 95% confidence intervals. A p value score of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. ResultsThe overall prevalence of malnutrition was 29% (19% undernutrition, 8% overweight, 2% obesity). In the adjusted analysis, younger age (25 to 34 years) was protective (AOR: 0.25), whereas experiencing eating problems (AOR: 13.70) and gastrointestinal symptoms (AOR: 3.52), immunosuppression (AOR: 8.13), anemia (AOR: 5.03), low meal frequency (AOR: 4.12), poor adherence (AOR: 3.60) were significant risk factors. ConclusionThe prevalence of malnutrition among women receiving PMTCT at public hospitals in Addis Ababa was high. Moving forward, integrating routine nutritional screening and evidence based supportive interventions, including dietary support for women with low meal frequency and targeted management for those with anemia or low CD4 counts, should be a priority to improve comprehensive care for this vulnerable population.