From the Guidelines
HIV infection alone is not a reason to prevent athletes from continuing with their sports activities, including professional basketball, as long as they are asymptomatic and their condition is well-managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART) 1.
Key Considerations
- Moderate intensity exercise, such as that experienced by professional basketball players, is not harmful to individuals with HIV and may even have psychological and immunological benefits 1.
- The decision for an HIV-positive athlete to participate in sports should be based on their individual health status, HIV status, risk of infection transmission, and the level of psychological and physical stress of the sport 1.
- There is no evidence that high-level competitive sports activity is a problem for asymptomatic HIV carriers, and the risk of transmission from athletes infected with HIV to other athletes is very low 1.
Management and Monitoring
- HIV-positive basketball players would require regular medical monitoring, including CD4 count and viral load tests every 3-6 months, to ensure their condition is well-managed 1.
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) with medications like Biktarvy, Triumeq, or Dovato taken daily can effectively suppress the virus to undetectable levels, allowing players to maintain their health and performance 1.
Challenges and Support
- Players with HIV may face challenges with medication side effects, travel restrictions to certain countries with HIV entry bans, and potential stigma, but NBA policies protect HIV-positive players from discrimination 1.
- With proper treatment adherence and medical support, HIV is now considered a manageable chronic condition that doesn't necessarily end an athletic career, as demonstrated by Magic Johnson's return to professional basketball after his HIV diagnosis in 1991 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Physical Effects of HIV on a Professional Basketball Player
- HIV can lead to a range of physical symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss, and muscle wasting, which could impact a basketball player's performance 2.
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the primary treatment for HIV, and while it can help manage the disease, it can also have side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and headaches, which could affect a player's ability to train and compete 3.
- The physical demands of professional basketball, including intense physical activity and travel, could exacerbate the symptoms of HIV and make it more challenging to manage the disease.
Impact of HIV on a Basketball Player's Career
- A professional basketball player with HIV may face challenges in maintaining their career, including the potential for decreased performance, increased risk of injury, and stigma or discrimination from teammates, coaches, or fans 4.
- The use of ART and other treatments can help manage the disease, but may also require adjustments to the player's training and competition schedule, which could impact their career 5.
- There is limited research on the specific impact of HIV on professional athletes, but studies suggest that with proper treatment and management, people with HIV can lead active and healthy lives, including participating in sports 6.
Management and Treatment of HIV in Professional Basketball Players
- A professional basketball player with HIV would require regular medical monitoring and treatment to manage the disease, including ART and other medications 2.
- The player's medical team would need to work with their coaches and trainers to develop a plan for managing the disease and minimizing its impact on their performance and career 3.
- The use of dual therapy, such as dolutegravir plus lamivudine, may be a viable option for initial antiretroviral therapy in treatment-naive HIV-infected individuals, including professional basketball players 6.