Holistic Heart Health: A Scoping Review of Nonpharmacological Cardiovascular Interventions for People Living With HIV Globally

ABSTRACT: As people living with HIV (PLWH) experience greater longevity with antiretroviral therapy, they face increasing rates of chronic comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nurses are well-positioned to lead prevention efforts, yet a comprehensive mapping of nonpharmacological strategies is limited. This scoping review, guided by the PRISMA-ScR framework, mapped interventions to reduce CVD risk among PLWH. Twenty-seven studies met inclusion criteria, most focusing on physical activity, dietary change, and cardiovascular education. Interventions were delivered in-person, home-based, or digitally, with nurses frequently central to implementation. Most studies demonstrated improvements in at least one outcome, such as blood pressure, lipid profiles, or activity levels, although theoretical frameworks were inconsistently applied. Barriers included participant retention, technology access, and resource limitations, particularly in underserved populations. Findings suggest nurse-led, behaviorally focused interventions are promising. Future research should emphasize theory-informed, community-engaged, and culturally responsive strategies that address structural determinants to strengthen cardiovascular outcomes among diverse PLWH populations.