Metabolic Syndrome Exacerbates Central Arterial Stiffness in HIV-1 Infected Patients Receiving Antiretroviral Treatment But Not in HIV-1 Treatment-Naive Patients in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a clustering of cardiovascular risk factors, is becoming increasingly prevalent with HIV-1 in resource-limited settings, and higher rates are observed in HIV-1-infected patients who are undergoing antiretroviral treatment (ART). Increased blood vessel stiffness may contribute to heart disease in HIV-infected patients taking ART. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether blood vessel stiffness is increased in HIV-1-infected patients treated with ART, and if so, whether the presence of MetS exaggerates arterial stiffness in this population.