The Sentinel Research Network of IeDEA: A Prospective Cohort among People Living with HIV

This study is nested within the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database initiative.

The global scale up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly improved the immune recovery and life expectancy of people living with HIV (PLHIV). However, PLHIV on long-term ART now face health challenges related to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). We know that exposures such as tobacco, alcohol, diet and exercise are associated with the risk of NCDs. In addition, alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances globally and unhealthy drinking commonly co-occurs with mental health disorders. However, limited data are available in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings on the intersection between HIV, NCDs, mental health, and use of alcohol and other substances. As the population of PLHIV increases and ages, it is imperative that we understand the burden of NCDs and risk factors for NCD development as well as their impact on long-term health outcomes.

AIMS To establish a network of research sites, the Sentinel Research Network (SRN), and to capture and analyze standardized data among PLHIV in LMICs. Through this network, we further seek to implement studies on cardiovascular risk factors, mental health, alcohol and other substance use disorders, as well as liver disease prevalence and associated factors among PLHIV accessing care in LMICs.