How stigma and discrimination affect heart health in people living with HIV
Official title: Psycho-neuro-immune Mechanisms Linking Stigma and Discrimination to Carotid Plaque Formation in Persons living with HIV
Funded at University of Miami Coral Gables · NIH-10907817 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how feeling stigmatized or discriminated against affects the health of people living with HIV, especially in relation to heart health, and it's for individuals aged 35-55 who are stable on their HIV treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami Coral Gables NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $681,316 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171416-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10907817 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 35-55 living with HIV who are on stable anti-retroviral therapy and have detectable viral loads without a history of heart failure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 35-55 or those not living with HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the experiences of stigma and discrimination impact the health of individuals living with HIV, particularly focusing on the formation of carotid plaque, which can lead to cardiovascular disease. The study will involve a diverse group of participants aged 35-55 who are stable on anti-retroviral therapy. Using advanced imaging techniques and biological assessments, the research aims to understand the connections between psychological stressors and physical health outcomes. Participants will undergo various assessments, including brain imaging and blood tests, to explore these complex interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for cardiovascular health in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that psychosocial factors can influence health outcomes in chronic conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami Coral Gables
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcintosh, Roger Christopher — University of Miami Coral Gables
- Study coordinator: Mcintosh, Roger Christopher
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.