Tobacco and HIV

The risks to an HIV-infected person who smokes are dramatically amplified compared with the general population. Smoking has been shown to be an independent risk factor for non-AIDS-related mortality in patients who have HIV, even in patients who receive highly active antiretroviral therapy. It has been independently associated with lower scores for quality-of-life indices, such as general health perception, physical functioning, bodily pain, energy, and cognitive functioning. Over time, considering the significant pathology elicited by tobacco, it is hoped that smoking cessation will help reduce the risks of lung disease, heart disease, and neoplastic conditions in patients who have HIV and increase their general sense of well-being.