NeuroHIV
HEALTH INFORMATION
Investigating links between HIV and dementia
WHAT WE KNOW
There is a growing concern that long-term HIV infection and aging may increase the risk of developing degenerative brain diseases similar to Alzheimer’s disease.
We are conducting a study to better understand whether long-term HIV infection increases the risk of developing difficulties with memory and concentration in HIV+ individuals aged 45 years or older.
Because of the success of antiretroviral therapy, many HIV+ individuals are now reaching their 50s and 60s. There has been some suggestion that long-term HIV infection may be associated with developing degenerative brain diseases such as dementia.
In conjunction with St Vincent’s Hospital and the University of New South Wales, NeuRA’s Dr Lucette Cyscique and Prof Lindy Rae are conducting a study to estimate the prevalence of memory and concentration difficulties in older individuals with long-term HIV infection.
We are also determining the means by which (if any) long-term HIV infection contributes to the incidence of an illness like Alzheimer’s disease.
