Socioeconomic Status and Cognitive Function in Children With HIV: Evidence From the HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia (HANDZ) Study

Background: Multiple previous studies have identified a detrimental effect of pediatric HIV on cognitive function. Socioeconomic status (SES) is one of the strongest predictors of cognitive performance and may affect the relationship between HIV and cognition. Methods: As part of the ongoing HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia (HANDZ) study, a prospective cohort study, we recruited 208 participants with HIV and 208 HIV-exposed uninfected controls, all aged 8–17 years. A standardized questionnaire was administered to assess SES, and all participants had comprehensive neuropsychological testing. An NPZ8 score was derived as a summary measure of cognitive function. Logistic regression and linear regression were used to model the relationship between SES and cognitive function, and mediation analysis was used to identify specific pathways by which SES may affect cognition. Results: Children with HIV performed significantly worse on a composite measure of cognitive function (NPZ8 score −0.19 vs. 0.22, P
Source: JAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes - Category: Infectious Diseases Tags: Implementation Science Source Type: research