Analogous to other infections, evidence suggests that improved micronutrient intake may reduce HIV transmission and progression, as well as morbidity from common and opportunistic infections. This is important information, considering many in the world's HIV-infected population do not yet have access to anti-retroviral drugs. Micronutrients and HIV Infection presents current knowledge on the role of micronutrients in HIV and other infections - knowledge that can be used to improve case management and public health interventions.
The book provides a comprehensive overview of micronutrients and HIV infection through a review of recently published human studies and intervention trials and other important epidemiology based literature. It begins by introducing the malnutrition-infection complex, Nutritionally Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, and the role of oxidative stress in infection. Then the book covers the history, biochemistry, biological functions, and food sources of individual micronutrients, and reviews their roles in host defense and resistance to infections in general, and HIV in particular. Finally, the book discusses how this information can be applied for the benefit of individuals with HIV and countries where HIV is widespread and treatment unavailable.
Most of the world's 35 million people living with HIV are micronutrient deficient and have little access to HIV testing, counseling, and care. In addition to covering specific micronutrients, Micronutrients and HIV Infection presents a critical review of how existing micronutrient interventions can be promoted, expanded, and modified to reduce the magnitude and impact of the HIV pandemic.
