Spotlight news story
Antiretroviral therapy has shifted HIV from a fatal to a chronic condition. But neuropsychiatrists say it is imperative for people living with the virus to start treatment immediately as the “duration of untreated exposure” may cause irreversible brain damage and impact long-term cognitive health.
At CROI 2026, a discussion titled “When I’m 64: Neurodegeneration, Epigenetic Aging, and Cognition in Older People With HIV” was held.
On average people living with HIV have lower cognitive function – including memory, attention span and executive function like planning – compared to people who don’t have HIV of the same age. This manifests as an increased risk of lower grade early dementia.
The most deteriorated cognitive function in people living with HIV is associated with untreated HIV and late HIV diagnosis. Starting HIV treatment soon after diagnosis is protective, and viral suppression is associated with better cognition.
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Source : Spotlight
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