Abstract:

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is an infectious disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, which weakens the immune system. Today, human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome continue to be an important public health problem for children. According to the United Nations Joint Program on human immunodeficiency virus / acquired immunodeficiency syndrome 2020 reports, nearly half of children living with human immunodeficiency virus can receive antiretroviral therapy, and the treatment of pediatric human immunodeficiency virus infection remains challenging in resource-constrained countries. Complications such as abnormal body fat distribution, insulin resistance, decreased bone density, and lipodystrophy syndrome can be seen in children living with human immunodeficiency virus. Malnutrition is an accelerating factor in the progressive progression of the disease and causes an increase in the risk of premature death and a decrease in the quality of life. The World Health Organization reports that nutritional assessment and support are important in children living with human immunodeficiency virus. However, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics supports the integration of medical nutrition therapy into routine care for this population and recommends individualized medical nutrition therapy targeting children living with human immunodeficiency virus. In this review, clinical problems related to nutrition in children living with human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, side effects of antiretroviral therapy, and current approaches to medical nutrition therapy were examined.

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