HIV Infection in Aging Individuals the Main Perpetrator of Cognitive Decline

Recently published results from an HNRC HIV and Aging study reported that HIV infection significantly increased the risk of neurocognitive decline independent of age.  Approximately 16% of HIV+ persons regardless of age showed some cognitive decline with only about 3% of HIV- persons showing similar symptoms. The study supports the relevance of surveillance for neurocognitive decline in order to treat at an early stage.  This is important, as symptomatic cognitive decline has been linked to increased rates of depression and a reduced quality of life.

Sheppard DP, Woods SP, Bondi MW, Gilbert PE, Massman PJ, Doyle KL.  (2015). Does older age confer an increased risk of incident neurocognitive disorders among persons living with HIV disease? The Clinical Neuropsychologist, 29(5), 656-77. PMID: 26367342  PMCID: PMC4570033