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Reporting Individual-Level Research Results from Neurocognitive and Psychological Research in People Living with HIV: Lessons from Dementia Research

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

There are growing expectations for the return of individual-level research results (RoR), which promotes autonomy and potential clinical and personal benefits. There are ethical and practical challenges, however, that may be exacerbated in research that assesses neurocognitive and psychological outcomes, including HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). This paper reviews central concepts for RoR and recent empirical and conceptual articles from Alzheimer’s disorder (AD) as a model for HIV.

Recent Findings

Data from AD studies indicate high participant interest and low risk of harm from RoR, though additional research is needed. Investigators report a range of benefits, potential risks, and feasibility concerns. Standardized, evidence-based approaches are needed for RoR.

Summary

For HIV research, we recommend a default position of offering RoR for cognitive and psychological outcomes. Investigators should justify decisions not to return results after assessing the potential value and feasibility of RoR. Longitudinal research is needed for feasible and evidence-based best practices.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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    Acknowledgements

    We acknowledge the assistance of Aminah Isiaq at RTI International in the literature search.

    Funding

    The authors received funding from grants 1R01AI127024 and 1R34MH123328.

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    Correspondence to Holly L. Peay.

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    Peay, H.L., Rennie, S. & Henderson, G.E. Reporting Individual-Level Research Results from Neurocognitive and Psychological Research in People Living with HIV: Lessons from Dementia Research. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 20, 131–138 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-023-00650-4

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