Researchers evaluating HIV’s hidden heart threats

Human immunodeficiency virus infection is no longer the death sentence it was 30 years ago, but HIV-infected adults may face a new health hurdle – heart disease.

Studies show HIV-infected adults have higher heart risks than people without the virus. A 2013 studyfound 50 percent higher risk of heart attack in those studied, while a 2012 study suggested more inflammation in heart arteries.

A large, international study, known as REPRIEVE, is currently looking at statin drug treatment can reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease in HIV-infected adults ages 40-75 who are taking antiretroviral drugs, without a history of heart disease or stroke. The participants also had a low to moderate risk of cardiovascular disease for starting a statin.

American Heart Association News

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