Depression and physical activity among HIV-positive people: integrated care towards 90-90-90

Introduction
Considering the high prevalence of depression and the positive effects of physical activity on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients, the current study was conducted. The aim was to determine the prevalence of depression and to investigate its association with physical activity among people living with HIV (PLWH).

Material and methods
This descriptive-analytic study was conducted on 122 PLWH aged over 18 years. The participants referred to the Counselling Centre for Behavioural Diseases in Kerman City, Iran in 2018. The data collection tools were the Beck Depression Inventory and the Baecke Physical Activity Inventory.

Results
The mean scores of physical activity were 6.97 and 7.03 in depressed and non-depressed people, respectively. However, no significant relationship was observed between physical activity and depression. More than 70% of patients were affected by different types of depression; mild, moderate, and severe. Except the education and occupation factors (p = 0.01), no statistically significant difference was observed between participants’ demographic characteristics and depression status.

Conclusions
Considering the high prevalence of depression and low levels of physical activity among PLWH, and in order to achieve the 90-90-90 goals, serious measures should be taken in this regard. The PLWH are required to pay more attention to their physical activity along with their medicines. Furthermore, sports facilities should be provided for these patients. It is also recommended that they use the instructions provided by the psychologists and sports specialists in the Counselling Centres for Behavioural Diseases.