HIV dementia study seeks participants
An Australian study investigating the link between long-term HIV infection and dementia in older people is now seeking older infected people to take part in the research. Previous suggestions have indicated long-term HIV infection may be associated with developing degenerative brain diseases similar to Alzheimer’s disease.
An Australian study investigating the link between long-term HIV infection and dementia in older people is now seeking older infected people to take part in the research.
Previous suggestions have indicated long-term HIV infection may be associated with developing degenerative brain diseases similar to Alzheimer’s disease.
St Vincent’s Hospital, the University of New South Wales and Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) will conduct the study, which will estimate the prevalence of memory and concentration difficulties in older individuals with long-term HIV infection.
Led by Dr Lucette Cysique, the study will also determine the means, if any, by which long-term HIV infection contributes to the incidence of an illness like dementia.
High cholesterol levels and cardiovascular disease will be closely looked at in participants, as both are reportedly common symptoms in older people with HIV, as well as the risk for developing dementia.
Researchers will use MRI equipment to look for evidence of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as to rule out causes of cognitive decline other than HIV.
Dr Lucette Cysique is recruiting HIV negative men who are 45 years and older to participate in the study. If you are interested in participating, or wish to learn more about the study, email lcysique@unsw.edu.au or call 0431 576 710.
