Effect of exercise and strength training on cardiovascular status in HIV-infected patients receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy.

A routine evaluation of lipid metabolism and body fat distribution along with a careful cardiovascular risk stratification according to international guidelines are required for HIV-infected patients receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy. Intervention includes evaluation of patients for both epidemiological and clinical factors, and for anthropometric and biochemical parameters. Diet counseling, prescription of antihyperlipidemic drugs and exercise training are the cornerstones of programs devoted to protecting patients from side effects of therapies that compromise quality of life and the functions of organs like the pancreas and heart that are involved in lipid disorders.