HIV and brain health in LGBTQ PoC

Abstract

Given increased attention to improving HIV immunological functioning, the past decade has now focused on the impact of HIV on brain health. Current knowledge indicates HIV replication leads to immunological activation and production of neurotoxic and neuroinflammatory viral proteins, ultimately compromising neuronal integrity. Though there is no cure for HIV, effective treatments have allowed people living with HIV (PLWH) to live a long and healthy life. Nonetheless, the impact of HIV on the brain of PLWH persists despite viral suppression. These neurocognitive impairments result from HIV infection, with continued viral replication in the brain despite highly active antiretroviral therapy. This chapter focuses on understanding the impact of HIV on brain health for racial/ethnic LGBTQ, older adult LGBTQ PoC, and centers the role of intersectional discrimination for these communities as a unique psychosocial process that is currently underexplored in the science.