Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: People with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHIV) have a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Previous studies have depicted that PLWHIV have these NCDs due to the predisposing risk factors of CVDs including dyslipidaemia, impaired fasting glucose, hypertension, obesity, and elevated glycated hemoglobin. Understanding the cumulative consequences of these disorders is critical in this population. Hence, the aim of this protocol is to narrate the methods and techniques that will be used to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of various CVD risk factors among diabetic individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy. Furthermore, this review will explore the extent to which traditional and HIV-specific risk factors contribute to the beginning and progression of CVD in the HIV-positive population by merging available data. METHODS: Literature search will be conducted using selected keywords on databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of science to identify eligible publications according to the eligibility criteria. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines will be used for reporting and risk of bias will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias In Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I tool). Data synthesis and sensitivity analysis will be performed using RevMan software and strength of evidence will be assessed using the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation approach (GRADE) pro tool. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS AND REGISTRATION: This systematic review protocol is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024524396) and it doesn't require any ethical clearance as it will use data from published reports.