The Role of Ectopic Fat and Heart Attack Risk in HIV
This study aims to understand why people living with HIV (PLWHIV) might have a higher risk of heart attacks compared to others. We're investigating how the body stores fat around vital organs like the heart and liver using special MRI scans. This type of fat, called 'visceral fat,' is known to increase the risk of heart problems. By looking closely at these fat levels and how the heart functions, we hope to gain insights into the link between HIV, fat storage, and heart attack risk. The findings could help us develop better ways to prevent heart attacks in people with HIV, potentially through new treatments or lifestyle advice.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is exploring why people living with HIV have a greater chance of heart attacks. We believe it might be linked to how their bodies handle and store fat, especially around important organs like the heart and liver. To investigate this, we'll be using a type of scan called an MRI. MRI scans are very safe and common in hospitals; they use radio waves and magnets to create detailed pictures inside your body without any X-rays or radiation. These scans will help us see exactly how much fat is stored around the heart and liver, and how well these organs are working.
We know that fat around organs, also called 'visceral fat,' can increase the risk of heart problems and conditions like cardiometabolic syndrome. People with HIV are known to have about twice the risk of heart attacks compared to the general population, and previous research suggests this might be connected to how their bodies deal with fat. This study will help us look into these connections more deeply, specifically focusing on changes in heart and liver fat, and how the heart muscle itself is functioning.
Ultimately, we hope this research will give us a clearer picture of why individuals with HIV face an increased risk of heart attacks. By understanding these links, we might be able to discover new ways or suggest different treatments to help reduce this risk in the future, improving the long-term health of people living with HIV.
Key takeaways
- The study uses safe MRI scans to look at fat around the heart and liver.
- It aims to understand why people with HIV have an increased risk of heart attacks.
- This research is 'non-interventional'; no new medicines are given.
- The goal is to find better ways to prevent heart problems in HIV-positive individuals.
- Your participation could help improve future care for people with HIV.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to be over 40 years old and living with HIV. Your HIV treatment should have been stable for at least six months, and your viral load (the amount of virus in your body) must be very low, as shown by your local test results. Your CD4 count (a measure of your immune system's health) should also have been above a certain level for at least two years.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have severe kidney or liver problems, active hepatitis B or C, or if you've had cancer. We also can't include pregnant or breastfeeding women. Certain medications, like some atypical antipsychotics, specific blood pressure drugs, or regular pain relievers, might also mean you can't take part. The study team will review all your information carefully to make sure it's safe and appropriate for you to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you over 40 years old?
- Do you have HIV and your treatment has been stable for at least 6 months?
- Are you able to have an MRI scan (e.g., no metal implants)?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Do you understand what joining the study involves and agree to participate?
- Do you not have severe kidney or liver problems or active hepatitis B/C?
What does participation involve?
This study is 'non-interventional,' meaning you won't be given any new medicines or treatments as part of the research. Instead, we'll be using special MRI scans to learn more about your body. You'll have multiple MRI scans to look at your heart and liver, specifically checking for fat around these organs and how they are working. There won't be any follow-up appointments from the study once your scans are complete. The total duration of your involvement will be limited to the time it takes to complete these scans. The research team will explain everything thoroughly before you decide to take part.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Royal Liverpool University HospitalVerified postcodeLiverpool, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'ectopic fat'?
Ectopic fat is simply fat that is stored in unusual places in the body, like around your heart or liver, instead of under the skin.
Are MRI scans safe?
Yes, MRI scans are very safe. They use magnets and radio waves, not X-rays, so there's no radiation involved.
Will I get any treatment in this study?
No, this study is 'non-interventional,' meaning we won't give you any new medicines or treatments. We are just observing and collecting information.
Why is this study important for people with HIV?
It's important because people with HIV have a higher risk of heart attacks. This study aims to find out why, which could help prevent them in the future.
How long will my involvement in the study last?
Your involvement will be limited to the time it takes to complete the MRI scans. There isn't a long-term follow-up.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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