Body image in middle-aged HIV-infected and uninfected women.

We assessed factors associated with negative body image among 225 HIV-infected and 207 uninfected women. Standardized interviews obtained sociodemographic data and elicited agreement with the statement: 'Overall I am satisfied with my body shape'. Height and weight were measured. Overall, 39% of the women were obese and 47% had a negative body image. Factors independently associated with negative body image were HIV-infection, BMI, and depression. Given the high prevalence of obesity and negative body image, interventions aimed at assisting women with weight loss are warranted.