How stigma and discrimination affect heart health in people living with HIV

Psycho-neuro-immune Mechanisms Linking Stigma and Discrimination to Carotid Plaque Formation in Persons living with HIV

NIH-funded research University of Miami Coral Gables · NIH-10907817

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami Coral Gables NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Coral Gables, United States)
Project IDNIH-10907817 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: 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.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 35-55 or those not living with HIV may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Coral Gables, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.