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Isolation, Transfection, and Culture of Primary Human Monocytes
Published on: December 16, 2019
Non-conventional practices and immune functioning among individuals receiving conventional care for HIV
Vienna R Nightingale1, Tamara G Sher, Sarah Thilges
1Yale University, USA. vienna.nightingale@yale.edu
Journal of Health Psychology
|May 10, 2011
Summary
Religious practices were linked to better adherence, while complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) were associated with viral load in people with HIV. These non-conventional practices may improve health outcomes and behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Public health
- Immunology
Background:
- Individuals with HIV often explore non-conventional practices alongside standard medical care.
- Understanding the impact of these practices on adherence and immune function is crucial for holistic HIV management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the associations between non-conventional practices (complementary and alternative medicines, psychosocial therapies, religious practice) and adherence to treatment.
- To examine the relationship between these practices and immune functioning (CD4 count, viral load) in people living with HIV.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 92 participants with HIV.
- Interviews assessed engagement in complementary and alternative medicines (CAM), psychosocial therapies, and religious practices.
- Data on adherence, psychiatric symptoms, CD4 count, and viral load were collected via questionnaires and medical chart reviews.
Main Results:
- Religious practice showed a significant association with treatment adherence.
- Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) were found to be associated with viral load.
- Psychosocial therapies did not show significant associations in this analysis.
Conclusions:
- Non-conventional practices, particularly religious practice and CAM, may play a role in improving health behaviors and outcomes for individuals with HIV.
- Findings suggest that integrating an understanding of these practices into clinical care could enhance patient management and support.
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