Atherosclerosis and HIV: Exploring Cardiovascular Risks and Management

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Antiretroviral therapy has increased HIV survival, shifting focus to chronic conditions like atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).
• People with HIV exhibit increased incidence of myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure compared to the general population.
• HIV infection and its treatment interact with traditional cardiovascular risk factors, elevating ASCVD risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of ASCVD in people living with HIV.
• To explore the complex relationship between HIV, antiretroviral therapy, and cardiovascular health.
• To synthesize current research to inform clinical practice and improve cardiovascular outcomes in this population.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing data from clinical trials.
• Analysis of observational studies on HIV and ASCVD.
• Inclusion of basic research on HIV-associated cardiovascular pathophysiology.

Main Results:

• Emerging evidence confirms an elevated risk of ASCVD in people living with HIV.
• Specific cardiovascular events like heart attack, stroke, and heart failure are more common.
• The interplay of HIV, treatment, and risk factors contributes to this increased ASCVD burden.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive cardiovascular risk reduction strategies are essential for people with HIV.
• Enhanced understanding of HIV-associated ASCVD is crucial for improving patient longevity and quality of life.
• Tailored healthcare approaches are needed to manage ASCVD in the context of HIV infection.