Prevalence and factors associated with the generalized anxiety disorder among people living with HIV/AIDS in Brazilian outpatient clinics

Introduction: The Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a chronic worrying disorder, which causes social and occupational impairment. Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of GAD among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) and to determine the associated socio-demographic and clinical factors. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional study between September 2014 and April 2015 at four HIV outpatient clinics in Fortaleza, Northeastern Brazil. We surveyed 257 individuals living with HIV/AIDS, aged > 18-years, of both sexes. Four modalities of instruments were used to collect the data: a socio-demographic questionnaire; the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview; the Hamilton’s Anxiety Scale; and chart data. Results: GAD prevalence was 14%. Female sex, CD4 200-500 versus < 200, CD4 > 500 versus < 200 and being homeless were associated in the multivariate model. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the necessity of proactively addressing mental health as well as physical health issues in HIV+ individuals.