HIV Treatment in African Americans: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract
This article reviews the current standard of care for HIV infection as well as how health disparities in the HIV care of African Americans present challenges for both providers and patients. The potential side effects in these antiretroviral treatment regimens that may be a source of additional challenges in treating African Americans are highlighted. A brief review of these issues as they relate to treatment adherence further demonstrates how adherence is closely linked to the medical and psychosocial issues African Americans face including access to HIV care services. The article concludes with a discussion of gender-related issues that affect treatment and that may confound effective behavioral interventions aimed at reducing HIV risk and increasing treatment adherence.