Nutritional support in HIV infection: a multilevel analysis.
Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the development of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a long-term process in many individuals. The progression of HIV disease is beginning to demonstrate many commonalities with other chronic diseases. Although research has not yet shown clear-out evidence that diet can make a difference in the course of disease in HIV-infected clients, nutrition should be viewed as an important component of holistic care for HIV-infected clients because: 1) wasting and symptoms of malnutrition are common problems associated with these clients; and 2) nutrition has proven to be a beneficial component of care in other chronic conditions. This paper uses the model developed by Winett, King and Altman (1989) to review nutritional support in HIV infection from a multilevel perspective ranging from personal psychology to institutional/societal controls. The author concludes that there is a potential benefit from integrating nutritional assessment, diagnosis and education into the holistic care of HIV-infected clients at the personal, interpersonal, organizational and societal levels.
Bradley-Springer
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D003191:Comprehensive Health Care; D004032:Diet; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000628:therapy*; D006292:Health Priorities; D006801:Humans; D015596:Nutrition Assessment; D009747:Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D012931:Social Environment