HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis

HIV remains one of the greatest global health challenges. In 2023, someone died of an AIDS-related illness every single minute, and more than people than ever – an estimated 40 million – are living with HIV today. Adolescent girls and young women are particularly badly affected, with 5,000 girls acquiring HIV every week. Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading killer of people living with HIV : those living with HIV are between 26-31 times more likely to develop TB than those without HIV.

HIV can trap those affected in a downward spiral of poor health and hunger. People living with HIV and TB need more calories and nutrients to help strengthen their immune systems. Yet HIV can suppress appetite, reduce nutrient absorption, and increase susceptibility to other infections – exacerbating malnutrition. When left untreated, HIV gradually destroys the immune system, causing weight loss and wasting. Additionally, people who start HIV treatment while malnourished are 3-5 times more likely to die than those who are not malnourished.

HIV is most prevalent where poverty and food insecurity are widespread. Costs of medical care, stigma, and loss of income can further deepen food insecurity, while people facing hunger may resort to risky behaviours that increase the risk of HIV transmission. Food-insecure individuals are also less likely to adhere to life-saving treatment, perpetuating a vicious cycle of illness and malnutrition. Integrating food and nutrition support into HIV and TB treatment packages is therefore critical for achieving better health outcomes.