antiretroviral drug treatment over the past 20 years, most people with HIV can now expect to live long, healthy lives. However, even if treatment successfully brings the virus under control, people can experience cognitive issues as a result of HIV causing damage to their central nervous system.Up to 45% of people with HIV may develop these difficulties, which are known collectively as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). Although the cause of HAND remains unknown, scientists have several theories.
They speculate, for example, that it may be the result of chronic inflammation, lingering damage from the initial infection, or a toxic effect of antiretroviral drugs.