HCV co-infection among people living with HIV Is associated with Higher fracture risk

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to predict the 10-year risk of fracture among people living with HIV (PLWH) using FRAX™, and to determine the risk factors related to a high probability of fractures. Methodology: This study consisted of 288 subjects aged 40 years and above. The ten-year probability of major osteoporotic fractures (MOF) and hip fractures was assessed using the FRAX™ algorithm with bone mineral density (BMD) data. A logistic regression was used to determine risk factors related to a high probability of major osteoporotic fracture and hip fracture. Results: The median 10-year probability of fracture was 3.7% (IQR 2.2–6.2) for MOF and 0.8% (IQR 0.3–2.5) for hip fractures. In addition to old age, previous fracture history, and low T-scores, HCV co-infection was associated with a higher risk of hip fractures in PLWH (AOR: 4.3, 95% CI: 1.29–14.33). Old age and low T-scores were also associated with a high probability of MOF. Conclusions: HCV co-infection among PLWH is associated with a higher risk of hip fracture. Sustained efforts in terms of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions in PLWH are necessary to prevent osteoporotic fractures, especially in those with HCV co-infections.