The Neuroanatomy of HIV, How can Physical Activity Improve the Mental Health and Quality of Life in People Living with HIV

Abstract

Motor‐Cognitive alterations (MCAs) are associated with HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy. These MCNAs are known to be related to the frontal lobe, cognitive and motor region involvement. MCAs create a profound negative impact on their independence causing a burden to caregivers and the health care system. MCNAs dysfunctions that impact motor speed, information processing, executive functions, attention, new learning, memory, and new information retrieval are distinct and particularly prominent traits of HIV. Furthermore, recent studies focusing on the role of HIV antiretroviral medication on MCAs revealed hypertension, depression and, peripheral neuropathy are among the top main comorbidities in Hispanic people living with HIV. All the aforementioned have a profound impact in mental health and quality of life in this individuals.The intention of antiretroviral medication is to improve the immune system, cd4 immune cells, by keeping the virus from duplicating on its host, thus reducing viral load. Average values of CD4 cell count is the gold standard to assess the effectivity of antiretroviral medication. A recent report revealed the cd4 values as a better predictor for quality of life (FAHI) and perceived balance (ABC scale) in these individuals. The above‐mentioned study found a positive correlation between cd4 count and FAHI score and a moderate correlation with the ABC scale, pointing out the importance of cd4 values as a predictor for quality of life, mental health, and perceived balance.Since is imperative to maintain cd4 count in normal range especially in people living with HIV, another means to improve cd4 and in turn, mental health is exercising. Evidence suggests a combination of aerobic and resistance training three times a week helped improve fitness. A report evaluating the effects of a one‐year community‐based exercise program on the immune system and fitness in individuals with HIV found significant improvement in CD4 counts. These participants did show betterment in overall strength and cardiovascular fitness. This study concluded that participation in community‐based exercise programs can help improve the immune system (increase CD4 count) in people with HIV. Thence, clinicians should encourage individuals with HIV to participate in regular exercise and acquaint them with community/recreational programs.There is more than one path to improve mental health in people living with HIV. Taking their antiretroviral medication might keep the immune system healthy, nevertheless, alterations in mental health is still an issue. Exercise by itself has been demonstrated to boost the immune system and reduce symptoms of depression, an illness that affects most of these individuals. However, a combination of normal range of cd4 count and regular exercise gives birth to a more powerful tool to aid mental health and quality of life in people living with HIV.