Adults with Perinatally Acquired HIV; Emerging Clinical Outcomes and Data Gaps

Area of Science:

• Medical research
• Public health
• Infectious diseases

Background:

• Adults born with HIV (perinatally acquired HIV) are aging, presenting unique long-term health considerations.
• Lifelong HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) exposure from childhood impacts development differently than adult-acquired HIV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical and psychological outcomes of adults living with perinatally acquired HIV.
• To identify data gaps and future research needs for this emerging population.
• To inform healthcare service development for adolescents with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical outcomes, comorbidities, and quality of life.
• Exploration of viral suppression, drug resistance, and immunological function.
• Consideration of sexual and reproductive health, and transmission prevention.

Main Results:

• Adults with perinatally acquired HIV experience specific morbidities and mortality patterns.
• Key comorbidities include metabolic, cardiovascular, respiratory, and bone health issues.
• Neurocognitive and mental health are significant quality-of-life factors, alongside sexual and reproductive health.

Conclusions:

• Outcomes for adults with perinatally acquired HIV provide insights into future challenges for adolescents with HIV.
• Optimizing long-term care requires addressing comorbidities, mental health, and transmission prevention.
• Further research is crucial to support this growing cohort.