HIV, immune activation and salt-sensitive hypertension (HISH): a research proposal

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to quantify and compare the effect of excess dietary salt on immune cell activation and blood pressure in HIV versus HIV negative individuals. RESULTS: Salt-sensitivity is associated with increased immune cell activation in animal studies. This concept has not been tested in people living with HIV. This study will therefore add more information in elucidating the interaction between HIV infection and/or anti-retroviral therapy (ART), immune-activation/inflammation and hypertension.