Inflammation and its discontents
When cells of the immune system encounter invading germs they can become activated and enter into a heightened state of alert. Temporary inflammation during short-lived infections is useful for marshalling the immune response. However, chronic inflammation from an ongoing infection—such as that arising from HIV—can injure organ-systems, causing them to slowly degrade.
Exercise—Potential impact on inflammation and mood
HIV infection is associated with activation of the immune system and inflammation. This inflammation is only partially suppressed with antiretroviral therapy. Researchers have proposed that one potential method for helping to reduce excess levels of inflammation and dampen immune activation in HIV-positive people is exercise. Even “brisk walking” has been found to have a good impact on health in one study.
Statins—Overall many benefits and a few risks
Statins are a group of medicines that reduce the body’s production of cholesterol. Statins also have anti-inflammatory activity, and clinical trials are planned or underway with HIV-positive people to explore their possible beneficial effect.
Exploring Jupiter—An important clinical trial
In a landmark clinical trial called Jupiter, scientists sought to assess the impact of rosuvastatin for cardiovascular prevention in HIV-negative participants whom they described as “apparently healthy.” When researchers reanalysed the data, they found that, overall, cases of diabetes were somewhat more common among participants who received rosuvastatin than among those who received placebo.
A trip through Saturn with low-dose rosuvastatin among HIV-positive people
HIV infection is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke. This risk is likely driven by several factors, including HIV infection, changes to the immune system, and inflammation. Taking potent combination anti-HIV therapy can greatly reduce HIV-related inflammation and improve overall health, but additional steps are needed to reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease. Researchers in Cleveland in the U.S. are conducting a study called Saturn designed to assess the impact of low-dose rosuvastatin among HIV-positive people with elevated levels of inflammation or immune activation.
Can statins help to reduce the risk of cancer?
Previous studies suggest that people who use statins may be at reduced risk for cancers. Now researchers in Milan, Italy, have scoured the medical records of HIV-positive antiretroviral therapy users to investigate the potential anti-cancer effect of statins. Twelve cancers (2%) occurred among statin users. A total of 363 cancers (8%) occurred among non-statin users.