Abstract
The widespread use of tobacco among people living with HIV (PLWH) has a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. However, gender differences in cigarette smoking and its consequences among PLWH have not been documented. For these analyses, we included 470 PLWH smokers (255 males and 215 females) actively followed in a randomized clinical trial. A comprehensive smoking and medical profile were obtained along with FEV 1 to assess if lung function and subsequent reduction differed by gender. Almost half of the participants were females (47%) and were slightly younger than their male counterparts (49±9 vs. 52±9 years, p=0.009). Smoking onset was similar (17±7 vs. 18±7 years of age, p=0.1), as well demonstrated preferences for mentholated cigarettes (women 89% vs. men 85%). Based on pulmonary function testing, females had a significantly lower percent predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1= 1.38) versus 1.9 in the male counterparts. Furthermore, women had a greater reduction in FEV1 over time. Among a clinical sample of PLWH smokers, we demonstrated significantly greater manifestations of lung damage in females compared to male smokers. Collectively, these findings further justify the need for more studies to closely monitor and tailor interventions for women.
Highlights
Despite significant reductions in smoking in the general population, people living with HIV (PLWH) have rates ranging from 40.5 to 84%
Notwithstanding a small number of studies, little is known about the epidemiology of gender differences in smoking among people living with HIV [5], [6]
Body mass index was significantly higher among females, who were more likely to have Body Mass Index (BMI) above 30 kg/m2
Summary
Despite significant reductions in smoking in the general population, people living with HIV (PLWH) have rates ranging from 40.5 to 84%. Tobacco has emerged as a leading killer of people living with HIV. Examining smoking behavior in women living with HIV has become increasingly relevant as their prevalence continues to rise. They seem to have more difficulties quitting smoking. Notwithstanding a small number of studies, little is known about the epidemiology of gender differences in smoking among people living with HIV [5], [6]. Our ongoing smoking cessation clinical trial of PLWH in Miami represents an ideal population in which to explore these gender differences because the enrollment of male and females are very similar and our cohort of HIV+ smokers underwent a thorough evaluation of smoking parameters
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