Cognitively Based Compassion Training (CBCT) stands as viable non-medication intervention for patients living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), according to a study published in Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes.
Researchers conducted an attention-placebo randomized controlled trial to evaluate the acceptability of CBCT among people living with HIV (PLWH) and its effects on key aspects of stress and immune function. These data were then compared to an active-attention control group of individuals with at least one-year adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART), virologic suppression, and stable CD4+ T-cell counts (<350 cells/μL). The population of interest were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to either CBCT or control in two study periods: April to May 2016 and September to December 2016.
According to the results, there was a significant association observed between CBCT practice time engagement and fold-reduction in IL-6 and TNF-α levels. However, there was no association found between CBCT practice time and other biomarkers markers assessed (IL-1β, sCD14 and IL-10). These changes were coincident with significant increases in self-reported psychological well-being and HIV disease acceptance and benefits for CBCT participants, the researchers noted. They added that there were fewer instances of virologic failure for those in the CBCT arm compared to the control arm.
“CBCT is a novel and feasible non-medication-based intervention that could reduce inflammation and psychological stress in P[LWH],” the researchers concluded.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34879006/
Keywords: HIV & AIDS, epidemiology, public health
