The role of substance abuse in HIV disease progression: reconciling differences from laboratory and epidemiologic investigations.
From the onset of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the use of licit and illicit drugs has been investigated for its potential impact on HIV disease progression. Findings from a large number of laboratory-based studies indicate that drug abuse may exacerbate HIV disease progression; however, epidemiological studies have shown mixed results. This article presents a review of findings from both laboratory-based and epidemiologic investigations. In addition, we provide a careful evaluation of methodological strengths and limitations inherent to both study designs in order to provide a more nuanced understanding of how these findings may complement one another.
Kapadia
Farzana
F
Center for Urban Epidemiologic Studies, New York Academy of Medicine, New York 10029, USA. fkapadia@nyam.org
Vlahov
David
D
Donahoe
Robert M
RM
Friedland
Gerald
G
D000818:Animals; D018450:Disease Progression; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000453:epidemiology*