Nutritional implications of marijuana use in an HIV infected population in the Miami Adult Studies on HIV cohort in Miami (810.7)

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine the relationship of nutritional status and MJ use in HIV+ population .METHODS: Dietary intake, food insecurity, plasma levels of nutrients, anthropometrics, CD4 count, viral load and ART use were determined with consent in 201 HIV+ participants. Multivariate and logistic regressions were used.RESULTS: Mean age was 45.2 years, mostly males (64%) and Blacks (72.5%); 27% used MJ. MJ users were younger (mean age 42 vs. 46, P<0.001) and used alcohol and tobacco more frequently than non‐users (94% vs. 87%, P<0.001). MJ use was associated with better ART adherence (β=0.99, P=0.043), higher CD4 cell count (β=112.87, P=0.03) and lower homocysteine (β=‐1.05, P=0.051). MJ users trended toward increased BMI (β=1.47, P=0.08) and %fat mass (β=3.02, P=0.08). In contrast, MJ users were more food insecure (52% vs. 33%, P=0.015) and had lower % body cell mass (β=‐3.3, P=0.018) and serum iron (β=‐13.16, P=0.018). Caloric intake did not differ between MJ users and non‐users.CONCLUSION: MJ use is associated with some positive effects on HIV disease progression, but the effect on body composition seems to be from fat accumulation. Studies are needed to determine the effects of MJ on health in HIV infection.Grant Funding Source: NIDA and NIAAA