Unraveling Cardiovascular Risk in HIV: Immune and Viral drivers of Cardiovascular Disease

This research investigates why people with HIV face heightened risks of cardiovascular conditions such as strokes and heart attacks, despite treatments that provide near-normal life spans. Using data from more than 1,900 patients who had blood testing and carotid artery ultrasound scans, the thesis examined the influence of both the virus and the immune system. Around half of the participants showed signs of carotid atherosclerosis. In addition to traditional factors like smoking, diabetes, and older age, immune system changes and low amounts of active HIV persisting during therapy were linked to cardiovascular risk. These insights help explain the biological mechanisms behind the disease, supporting improved risk prediction and potential prevention in this population.