There are several reasons why early recognition of cognitive impairment is important: 

People with HIV with cognitive impairment have been shown to be less adherent to HIV medication regimes (33-34). This may lead to drug-resistant HIV, resulting in their current medication regime becoming ineffective (20-21). Morbidity and mortality can then be affected as the person experiences poor health outcomes secondary to impaired adherence.  For those who can maintain a single-dose daily regimen, this could help adherence. 

• As PLHIV are ageing and may have a longer duration of HIV infection the overall prevalence of neurocognitive impairment has increased especially in its milder forms (19).  
• Increased potential for many PLHIV who are otherwise controlled to become disabled through neurological impairment. 
• The interval between initial infection of CNS and the development of HAD represents a window of opportunity to detect early and treat, therefore reducing potential clinical progression.