Depending on what is being defined and measured, lipodystrophy has been reported in 5-80% of people on treatment. Only a smaller percentage of people will show clinical symptoms. In order to treat HIV, we need to recognise that many of the current drugs affect the way our bodies process fats and sugar.

Over the short-term, most people do not have serious problems. The benefits from treatment still clearly outweigh the risks. However, for a significant minority of people the problems can occur more quickly, or can become more serious.

Preventing lipodystrophy is more important and more successful than trying to treat lipodystrophy after it has developed.

As no one can predict who will be affected before starting treatment, monitoring in order to change treatment if you get early symptoms is very important.