"QUALITY OF LIFE AND PSYCHOSOCIAL WELL-BEING IN INDIVIDUALS WITH HIV-TB CO-INFECTION: INSIGHTS FROM A CROSSSECTIONAL STUDY IN INDIA"

Introduction: The co-infection of Human Immunodeciency Virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB) presents a signicant public health challenge in India. This paper investigates the quality of life (QOL) and psychosocial factors affecting individuals with HIV alone and those with HIV-TB co-infection. This cross-sectional study was conduc Material & Methods: ted in an ART clinic at L.L.R.M. Medical College, Uttar Pradesh, India. Participants were divided into two groups: HIV patients without TB and HIV-TB coinfected patients. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire and the WHOQOL-HIV Instrument. HIV-TB co-infected Results: patients had lower CD4 counts, indicating greater immune suppression. Both groups reported dissatisfaction with daily tasks, depression, sleep issues, decision-making challenges, and concerns about relationships, nances, and stigma. Individuals with co-infection faced additional burdens of loneliness, thoughts of suicide, and worries about affecting their family line. Self-blame and stigma were prevalent across both groups. The study underscores the need for comprehensive psychosocial support in addition to medical care for individuals with HIV and HIV-TB coinfection. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and regional focus. This study highlights Conclusions: the importance of addressing neurocognitive impairment and psychosocial well-being in individuals with HIV and HIV-TB co-infection. Comprehensive interventions should consider both medical and psychosocial factors to enhance the overall quality of life for these populations.