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Can an online program to promote brain function help reduce dementia risk in individuals living with HIV in Zimbabwe?
Primrose Nyamayaro
University of Zimbabwe
Harare, Zimbabwe
Background
In some individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the virus can enter the brain and impact the function of nerve cells. This can lead to HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), which are characterized by a decline in memory and other cognitive functions. HIV is especially prevalent in sub-Saharan African countries, including Zimbabwe, and HAND may be one of the leading causes of Alzheimer’s and other dementias in that region.
Though individuals with HIV live longer because of antiretroviral therapy, this treatment has not been shown to prevent the cognitive decline and increased dementia risk related to HAND. Studies have found that such prevention may require brain training programs that promote brain health. One such program, called Smartbrain Pro, is a smartphone app that provides digital exercises for boosting memory, attention and other brain activities. Programs like Smartbrain Pro could offer a cost-effective, easy-to-use cognitive therapy for individuals with HIV, especially those living in underserved countries.
Research Plan
Dr. Primrose Nyamayaro and colleagues will conduct a study of Smartbrain pro and HIV in Zimbabwe. To do this, they will translate the app into the local Shona language and adapt it to suit the cultural needs of people in the country. They will then test the app on 20 older Zimbabweans living with HIV, and, using a variety of cognitive tests, determine how the app improves cognitive function in their participants. Next, they will conduct focus group discussions with the participants to determine how easy the app is to use and whether it is a culturally appropriate form of cognitive therapy in Zimbabwe and other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
Impact
Results from this study will shed new light on how cognitive decline impacts individuals living with HIV. They could also identify a practical therapeutic tool for moderating such decline in many areas of the world.
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