San Francisco Researcher Discovers Groundbreaking Treatment to Strengthen Immune Systems in HIV-Infected Patients: Study Featured in Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes August Issue and Will Be Presented at 16th International World AIDS Congress on August 14th, 2006

Business Wire - August 14, 2006

TORONTO - Micronutrient supplementation increases CD4 count in HIV-infected individuals on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), according to a study published in the August 15th issue of the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. These results will also be presented at the 2006 World AIDS Conference in Toronto Monday, August 14th, Session room 5 at 4:15 pm.

The study, authored by Jon D. Kaiser, M.D., demonstrates that the patients adding a micronutrient supplement while taking HAART are able to increase their CD4 cell count by 24%, compared to no change in the placebo group. CD4 cells act to protect the body against viral, fungal, and protozoal infections. When an individual is HIV-infected, the virus continually kills CD4 cells. Over time, the body is unable to replace the lost cells and their number declines, making the body more susceptible to infections.

With twenty years of HIV treatment experience, Dr. Kaiser has investigated many antioxidant combinations. "There have been several recent clinical trials which show HIV-infected patients who begin to take micronutrient supplements have improved clinical outcomes," said Dr. Kaiser. "This most recent study proves to the medical community that micronutrient supplementation holds significant promise as a vital part of standard medical treatment for people with HIV/AIDS."

Success of antiviral therapy to date has been limited by a wide range of debilitating side effects. The micronutrient supplement tested was also shown to decrease one of the common side effects of antiviral therapy, peripheral neuropathy, by 42% compared to a 33% decline in the placebo group.

The ability of this micronutrient formula to strengthen the immune systems of people with HIV/AIDS -- at substantially lower cost than that of antiviral medication -- could potentially stabilize the health of millions of people in the developing world until access to antiretroviral medications improves.

Co-authors include Adriana M. Campa, Ph.D., Joseph P. Ondercin, PA-C, Gifford S. Leoung, M.D., Richard F. Pless, Ph.D., and Marianna K. Baum, Ph.D. The study was funded by Bristol-Myers Squibb.

CONTACT: Integrative Health Consulting

Bruce Hollander, 415-381-7505

415-381-7503 (fax)

brucehollander@sbcglobal.net

SOURCE: Integrative Health Consulting

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