Dr. Monica Diaz, MD, MS, a distinguished Center for AIDS Research investigator, is making transformative strides in the field of neuro-infectious diseases and neuro-immunology. As a member of the Center for AIDS research Dr. Diaz brings a critical focus to the neurological challenges faced by people living with HIV鈥攑articularly in underserved regions such as Peru, and in North Carolina.听听
Since 2019, Dr. Diaz has led groundbreaking research in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND), identifying that nearly 28% of people living with HIV may experience significant cognitive impairment. These challenges range from memory loss to executive dysfunction, can drastically reduce quality of life and increase caregiver burden.听
In partnership with Dr. Deanna Saylor鈥攁 fellow neurologist conducting related research in Uganda鈥擠r. Diaz is also working to improve caregiver training and evaluate global diagnostic standards for HAND, ensuring that all patients, regardless of geography, receive informed and effective neurological support. Dr. Diaz鈥檚 work exemplifies CFAR鈥檚 commitment to equitable, community-focused research that improves outcomes for people living with HIV around the world.