SAC Speaks

BETA asked members of its San Francisco-based Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) the following question:

What health advice would you give to readers?

George Beatty, MD, MPH

Everyone is worried about cardiovascular disease risk associated with anti-HIV drugs. The drugs may contribute a certain amount to heart disease, but the risk reduction would be huge if people quit smoking and paid attention to other classic risk factors. I'd also encourage people with HIV not to tweak on speed (methamphetamine).

Cristina Gruta, PharmD

Anti-HIV medications can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and recreational agents. Always let your provider know everything you're taking so that any untoward effects of drug interactions can be minimized.

Greg Pauxtis, MD

Keep an eye on triglycerides, and make sure both cholesterol and triglyceride levels are under control. I know men in their early fifties with angina and other heart disease because their triglyceride levels are being ignored. I would also encourage men not to abuse testosterone therapy, which can lead to problems like liver function abnormalities and nerve displacement in the arms.

Eric Goosby, MD

Everyone--especially in minority group populations--should keep in mind that the relationship you have with a knowledgeable health-care provider can have a profound impact on your health. It's not just a question of having a provider, but of having one you trust and are comfortable with. If the relationship with your provider isn't satisfactory, change to someone else. Also, HIV positive people shouldn't have a false sense of security if their viral load is undetectable--they are still able to transmit HIV.

Lisa Capaldini, MD

Make sure there is a healthy source of day-to-day happiness in your life: a dog, a hobby, a partner, a spiritual practice. Also, before every medical visit make a list addressing the following questions:

• How am I doing in general?
• Am I having any side effects from my meds?
• How is my medication adherence?

Let your clinician know if there are problems in any of these areas.