Systematic Review Highlights Gaps in Missing Data Reporting in HIV Research

### Systematic Review Highlights Gaps in Missing Data Reporting in HIV Research

**Abstract**: A recent systematic review published in *BMC Medical Research Methodology* has shed light on critical deficiencies in the reporting and handling of missing data within studies focusing on co-morbid hypertension and diabetes among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH). The findings emphasize the imperative need for accurate data management to enhance the reliability of epidemiological research, which is crucial for informing effective health policies.

**Introduction**: As life expectancy increases for PLWH due to effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), they face heightened risks of developing co-morbid conditions, particularly hypertension and diabetes. A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the reporting and handling of missing data in studies examining these co-morbidities, aiming to identify gaps that could undermine the validity of research findings. The review analyzed studies published globally between January 1990 and June 2023, underscoring the necessity for robust methodologies in medical research.

**Methodology**: The review included cross-sectional studies sourced from PubMed, focusing on co-morbid hypertension and diabetes among PLWH. Out of the 2,179 records identified, only 154 studies met the inclusion criteria. The researchers extracted data related to missing data reporting, including its quantity, type, and handling methods.

**Key Findings**: Out of the 154 studies, only 53 (34.4%) reported missing data, predominantly in exposure variables like CD4 count and viral load. Alarmingly, only 19 (37.7%) cited reasons for missingness, which were often attributed to lack of documentation or non-responses. Furthermore, of the studies that reported missing data, only 24 (39%) described the methods used to address it, with a preference for complete case analysis (30.2%) over more sophisticated techniques like multiple imputation (9.4%). Notably, potential biases arising from missing data were acknowledged in only 12 (22.6%) of the studies.

**Discussion**: The findings indicate a troubling trend of inadequate reporting and handling of missing data in critical research areas. The common reliance on complete case analysis may lead to biased outcomes, particularly when missing data is not completely at random. Moreover, the lack of transparency regarding the methods used to address missing data raises concerns about the reproducibility and credibility of findings in this domain. There is a pressing need for comprehensive guidelines to standardize the management of missing data, aiming to enhance the integrity of research outcomes.

**Conclusion**: The systematic review highlights significant gaps in the current practices surrounding the reporting and handling of missing data in studies related to hypertension and diabetes among PLWH. Enhanced understanding and adherence to rigorous data management protocols are essential for improving the quality of epidemiological research, which ultimately informs public health interventions and policy decisions. The authors advocate for the development and dissemination of clear guidelines to support researchers in addressing missing data rigorously and transparently.

**Keywords**: Missing data, Hypertension, Diabetes, HIV/AIDS, Epidemiological research, Systematic review, Public health policy.