Work

Association between herpes simplex virus infection and cardiometabolic diseases: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Introduction Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is a lifelong viral infection with high global prevalence. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic viral infections, including HSV, may contribute to the development of cardiometabolic diseases through persistent inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and immune dysregulation. However, findings on the association between HSV infection and cardiometabolic outcomes remain inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis will synthesise the available evidence on the relationship between HSV infection and cardiometabolic diseases. Methods and analysis This protocol was developed in accordance with the PRISMA-P guidelines. Electronic searches will be conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant studies. Observational studies evaluating HSV-1 and/or HSV-2 infection in relation to cardiometabolic diseases will be included. Primary outcomes will include cardiovascular diseases (myocardial infarction, stroke and coronary artery disease), type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and metabolic syndrome. Two independent reviewers will perform study screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Where appropriate, meta-analysis using a random-effects model will be conducted. Pooled effect estimates will be reported as ORs, risk ratios or HRs with 95% CIs. Statistical heterogeneity will be assessed using the I² statistic, while publication bias will be evaluated using funnel plots and Egger’s test. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval is not required as only published data will be used. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and scientific conference presentations. PROSPERO registration details CRD420261390435.

Source: BMJ Open

DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2026-123414