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HIV protease inhibitors have been shown to exert antiangiogenic and antitumor actions independently from their antiretroviral effect. Based on these studies, HIV-seronegative patients with classic Kaposi's sarcoma were treated with indinavir and followed for clinical evolution, drug pharmacokinetics and Kaposi's sarcoma biomarkers. A favorable clinical course was associated with high drug plasma levels, reduced production of basic fibroblast growth factor, lower numbers of circulating endothelial cells, and a decrease in antibody titers against human herpesvirus 8.

Introduction: The prevalence of systemic arterial hypertension in young adults is increasing worldwide in association with modifiable risk factors. Aim: To assess the prevalence of high blood pressure (BP) in young adults participating to a screening campaign during the World Hypertension Day (17/05/2014), and to determine the possible association with lifestyle factors. Methods: 493 individuals aged 18–35 years were selected in 13 Italian cities. All participants underwent BP measurement together with the administration of a questionnaire exploring: medical and drug history; traditional cardiovascular risk factors and diseases; dietary pattern; salt intake; sleep habits; mood disorders. Results: High BP (≥140/90 mmHg) was found in 54 individuals, with a prevalence of 11 % and awareness of 28 %. Those with high BP values were more frequently men, reported a higher BMI and a greater use of corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and had a lower anxiety score. Concerning dietary habits, they were more likely to eat cheese/cold cuts ≥3 times/week, to have their meals out ≥1/day and to eat in fast foods ≥1/week. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, male sex [OR 3.19, 95 % CI (1.33–7.63)], BMI [OR 1.14 95 % CI (1.04–1.25)], eating in fast foods [OR 3.10 95 % CI (1.21–7.95)], and anxiety [OR 0.85 95 % CI (0.75–0.97)], were independently associated with high BP. Conclusions: High BP values were found in 11 % young adults. Male sex, adiposity and alimentary habits were the main determinants of high BP values, indicating that young men are a suitable target for healthy lifestyle interventions.