Treatment‐naïve people living with HIV aged 50 years or older in Beijing, China, 2010–2020: joinpoint regression model analysis of surveillance data

Abstract

IntroductionAs they age, people living with HIV (PLWH) must face new challenges, such as accelerated ageing and higher rates of comorbidities. This study described the characteristics of HIV acquisition among treatment‐naïve PLWH aged ≥50 years and <50 years in Beijing from 2010 to 2020, exploring associated risk factors for comorbidities.MethodsIn this cross‐sectional study, differences in HIV‐related and non‐HIV‐related characteristics were compared using the t‐test, Mann−Whitney U test and chi‐square test. Temporal trend data were analysed via joinpoint regression. A multivariate logistic regression model was conducted to analyse the associated factors with PLWH having one or more comorbidities.ResultsThe proportion of PLWH aged ≥50 years has significantly increased since 2013, with a corresponding increase in homosexual transmission in this age group over the past decade. The proportion of individuals with CD4 counts <200 cells/μl significantly decreased from 2010 to 2013 among PLWH aged ≥50 years and from 2010 to 2014 among those aged <50 years. Delayed initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) improved for both age groups over the course of the decade, especially from 2014 to 2020. Compared to PLWH aged <50 years, those aged ≥50 years had a higher proportion of CD4 counts <200 cells/μl, higher levels of plasma HIV RNA load and a higher prevalence of non‐HIV‐related risk factors. Multivariate analysis revealed that PLWH aged ≥50, male, not single, transmission through heterosexual contact or drug injection, WHO Stage IV, coinfection with hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus and CD4 counts <200 cells/μl at the initiation of ART were associated with higher risk of the presence of an HIV comorbidity.ConclusionsDue to the persistent burden of HIV‐related characteristics or symptoms and the increasing prevalence of coexisting comorbidities among treatment‐naïve PLWH aged ≥50 years, physicians should provide the highest‐quality screening, prevention, treatment and management of coexisting comorbidities, adopting a multidisciplinary approach.