HIV: Role of Exercise in Promoting Health

The emergence of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has allowed individuals infected with HIV to live longer and more productive lives. However, there are a number of HIV-related side effects that are induced by the virus, HAART, and other therapies (growth hormone, testosterone) associated with the disease. With the advent of HAART, patients are beginning therapy with higher body fat mass and BMI than was reported in previous years, as well as reduced strength and muscle mass. As the demographics of the epidemic moved into minority and lower socioeconomic classes, there resulted a larger population of people living with HIV who have personal and environmental factors that predispose to high visceral fat mass and obesity. Health care professionals are currently seeking alternative ways to prevent ...