Finally, in the HAART periods we found an association between the increase in CD4 count and increases in the frequencies of GERD and HP infection, particularly for CD4 counts ≥200 cells/μL. This observation suggests that, whatever the effect of HAART, it is the improvement in immunity it produces that is associated with increased frequencies of see more HP infection and GERD. In conclusion, we observed a correlation between the improvement of immunity produced by HAART and the dramatic decrease in the frequency of

opportunistic complications. However, in the HAART era, candida oesophagitis was still prevalent, and increased rates of HP infection and GERD were found. Further trials may provide a better understanding of Selleck Dorsomorphin the mechanisms involved. We thank R. Saïdi, RN, for data collection, M. Delforge for statistical analysis, and Dr L. Watkins-Masters, MD, for valuable discussions. “
“Among people living with HIV, the proportion

of deaths attributed to chronic noninfectious comorbid diseases has increased over the past 15 years. This is partly a result of increased longevity in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and also because HIV infection is related, causally or otherwise, to several chronic conditions. These comorbidities include conditions that are strongly associated with modifiable risk factors, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, and renal and bone diseases, and increasingly management guidelines for HIV recommend risk evaluation for these conditions. The uptake of these screening approaches is often limited by the resources required for their application, and hence the management of risk reduction in most HIV-infected populations falls below a reasonable standard. The situation is compounded by the fact that few risk calculators have been adjusted ZD1839 cost for specific use in HIV infection.

There is substantial overlap of risk factors for the four common comorbid diseases listed above that are especially relevant in HIV infection, and this offers an opportunity to develop a simple screening approach that encompasses the key risk factors for lifestyle-related chronic disease in people with HIV infection. This would identify those patients who require more in-depth investigation, and facilitate a stepwise approach to targeted management. Such a tool could improve communication between patient and clinician. A significant proportion of people with HIV are sufficiently engaged with their care to participate in health promotion and take the lead in using patient-centric screening measures. Health-based social networking offers a mechanism for dissemination of such a tool and is able to embed educational messages and support within the process.