Factors associated with elevated alanine aminotransferase levels among HIV patients on HAART at Naguru Hospital in Kampala District. A cross-sectional study.
Background: The study aimed to establish the factors associated with elevated ALT levels among HIV patients on HAART at Naguru Hospital in Kampala District. Methodology: The study utilized a cross-sectional design involving participants attending HIV care clinics. Data were collected through patient records, interviews, and laboratory investigations, including liver function tests and metabolic assessments. The prevalence of liver diseases and treatment-related adverse effects was determined. Statistical analysis was conducted to explore relationships between variables. Ethical considerations were observed by obtaining approval from relevant authorities and informed consent from participants, ensuring confidentiality and voluntary participation throughout the research process. Results: A total of 88 participants were included. Regarding age, the largest proportion of respondents were aged 21–40 years, accounting for 46 (52.3%). This was followed by those aged 41–60 years with 18 (20.4%), and respondents aged below 20 years who constituted 11 (12.5%). The least represented age group was those aged above 61 years, with 13 (14.8%). Most respondents were single (58, 65.9%), while 20 (22.7%) were married. A smaller proportion were divorced (8, 9.1%), and 2 (2.3%) were widowed. Lifestyle was local 53.7% (22/41), intermediate 29.3% (12/41), and modernized 17.0% (7/41). Co-infection was present in 85.4% (35/41), and alcohol use in 92.7% (38/41). Age distribution among elevated ALT cases was 7.3%, 68.3%, 19.5%, and 4.9%. Conclusion: Many factors were found to be associated with elevated ALT levels among HIV patients, and these included, but were not limited to: residential areas, lifestyle, co-infection, alcohol consumption, and age group. Recommendation: The Government of Uganda, together with the health service provider, should devise means to come up with drugs that counteract the effects of HART drugs, such as liver damage.