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Biswas A, Rhee DS, Laytin AD, Zhao YJ, Ko J, Chidiac C, Clarke DL, Kong VY. Interpersonal Violence-Related Trauma Among South African Children. J Surg Res 2024; 302:150-159. [PMID: 39096743 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2024.06.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Injuries account for a major portion of disability-adjusted life years in children globally, and low-and middle-income countries are disproportionally affected. While injuries due to motor vehicle collisions and self-harm have been well-characterized in pediatric populations in South Africa, injuries related to interpersonal violence (IPV) are less understood. Our study aims to characterize patterns of injury, management, and outcomes for pediatric patients presenting with IPV-related injuries in a South African trauma center. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of trauma patients ≤18 y of age presenting to the Pietermaritzburg Metropolitan Trauma Service in Gray's Hospital in South Africa from 2012 to 2022, comparing those with injuries resulting from IPV to those with non-IPV injuries. Patients' and injury pattern characteristics and outcomes were descriptively analyzed. RESULTS Out of 2155 trauma admissions, 500 (23.2%) had IPV-related injuries. Among patients with IPV-related injuries, the median age was 16.0 y. 407 (81.4%) patients were male. 271 (54.2%) patients experienced blunt trauma, 221 (44.2%) had penetrating trauma, and 3 (0.6%) suffered both. The most common weapons were knives (21.6%), stones (11.2%), and firearms (11.0%). The most commonly injured regions were the head (56.4%), abdomen (20.8%), and thorax (19.2%). 19.6% underwent surgical intervention, and 14.4% were referred out for subspecialty care. 1.4% patients died, and 1.2% returned to Pietermaritzburg Metropolitan Trauma Service within 30 d of discharge. CONCLUSIONS IPV patients are a distinctive subgroup of pediatric trauma patients with different demographics, patterns of injury, and clinical needs. Further research is needed to better understand the unique needs of this neglected population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arushi Biswas
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Daniel S Rhee
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Adam D Laytin
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Jonathan Ko
- Department of Surgery, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Charbel Chidiac
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Damian L Clarke
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Department of Surgery, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Victor Y Kong
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Department of Surgery, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Rogers K, Ranganathan M, Kajula L, Lorraine Collins R, Livingston JA, Palermo T. The influence of gender-equitable attitudes on sexual behaviour among unmarried adolescents in rural Tanzania: a longitudinal study. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2023; 31:2260169. [PMID: 37850724 PMCID: PMC10586071 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2023.2260169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PLAIN LANGUAGE STATEMENT Gender norms that centre men and disadvantage women create gender inequality, which can lead to risky sexual behaviour. This study examined how both community and individual attitudes toward gender norms influenced risky sexual behaviour in adolescents, and whether that influence was different between males and females. We found that higher gender-equitable attitudes were linked to increased odds of HIV testing in the last 12 months, and decreased odds of engaging in a sexual relationship with a much older partner. Individual high gender-equitable attitudes among girls were also linked to higher odds of them using condoms and contraceptives. Gender-equitable attitudes did not seem to influence early sexual debut, engagement in transactional sex, having multiple sexual partners at the same time, or the number of sexual partners a participant had in the last 12 months. Based on these findings, programming designed to increase gender-equitable attitudes might be helpful in increasing HIV testing and condom and contraceptive use, but it needs to involve the entire community, not just individual boys and girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Rogers
- PhD Candidate, Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, SUNY, 330 Kimball Tower, Buffalo, NY14212, USA
| | - Meghna Ranganathan
- Assistant Professor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lusajo Kajula
- Independent Consultant, UNICEF Office of Research-Innocenti, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - R. Lorraine Collins
- Associate Dean for Research, Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | - Tia Palermo
- Associate Professor, Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Thomas KA, Sibanda EL, Johnson C, Watadzaushe C, Ncube G, Hatzold K, Tumushime MK, Mutseta M, Ruhode N, Indravudh PP, Cowan FM, Neuman M. Do community measures impact the effectiveness of a community led HIV testing intervention. Secondary analysis of an HIV self-testing intervention in rural communities in Zimbabwe. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 22:974. [PMID: 37907871 PMCID: PMC10617038 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08695-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing body of evidence for the role that communities can have in producing beneficial health outcomes. There is also an increasing recognition of the effectiveness and success of community-led interventions to promote public health efforts. This study investigated whether and how community-level measures facilitate a community-led intervention to achieve improved HIV outcomes. METHODS This is a secondary analysis of survey data from a cluster randomised trial in 40 rural communities in Zimbabwe. The survey was conducted four months after the intervention was initiated. Communities were randomised 1:1 to either paid distribution arm, where HIV self-test (HIVST) kits were distributed by a paid distributor, or community-led whereby members of the community were responsible for organising and conducting the distribution of HIVST kits. We used mixed effects logistic regression to assess the effect of social cohesion, problem solving, and HIV awareness on HIV testing and prevention. RESULTS We found no association between community measures and the three HIV outcomes (self-testing, new HIV diagnosis and linkage to VMMC or confirmatory testing). However, the interaction analyses highlighted that in high social cohesion communities, the odds of new HIV diagnosis was greater in the community-led arm than paid distribution arm (OR 2.06 95% CI 1.03-4.19). CONCLUSION We found some evidence that community-led interventions reached more undiagnosed people living with HIV in places with high social cohesion. Additional research should seek to understand whether the effect of social cohesion is persistent across other community interventions and outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION PACTR201607001701788.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Euphemia Lindelwe Sibanda
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Cheryl Johnson
- HIV, Hepatitis and STI Department, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Getrude Ncube
- Ministry of Health and Child Welfare, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Karin Hatzold
- Population Services International, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mary K Tumushime
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Miriam Mutseta
- Department of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights and Innovations, Population Services International Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nancy Ruhode
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Frances M Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Melissa Neuman
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK
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Leight J, Cullen C, Ranganathan M, Yakubovich A. Effectiveness of community mobilisation and group-based interventions for preventing intimate partner violence against women in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Glob Health 2023; 13:04115. [PMID: 37861113 PMCID: PMC10588291 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.13.04115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a challenge affecting one in three women in their lifetime, and gender-transformative interventions have been identified as a promising prevention strategy. We systematically reviewed and meta-analysed randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of community-level or group-based interventions to prevent IPV in lower- and middle-income countries, seeking to answer the following research question: do community- or group-based gender-transformative interventions reduce IPV, compared to a control arm of status-quo programming? Methods We conducted a systematic search from the inception of all databases employed until 20 July 2021. Eligible study outcomes included past-year experience of physical, sexual, emotional or economic IPV self-reported by women and perpetration of physical or sexual IPV self-reported by men. We assessed study risk of bias using the updated Cochrane tool for RCTs. We estimated the pooled odds ratio (OR) using a multilevel random-effects meta-analysis and also conducted a multilevel meta-regression to analyse how study characteristics moderated the effect size. Results After screening 7363 unique records, we included 30 studies on 27 unique RCTs. Our meta-analysis suggested that community-level or group-based interventions reduced the odds of women experiencing IPV in the past year: pooled adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.78; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.63-0.97. While there was significant heterogeneity in the effect sizes between trials (I2 = 83%), potentially reflecting the diverse contexts of the included trials, our meta-regression did not indicate a significant association between intervention effectiveness and intervention type or target population. There was evidence of significant associations between effectiveness and intervention components and duration. Discussion There is strong evidence that community-level and group-based interventions reduce IPV against women. Unpacking what intervention modalities are effective in which contexts can further inform prevention strategies. Registration PROSPERO (CRD42021290193).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Leight
- Poverty, Gender and Inclusion, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington DC, USA
| | - Claire Cullen
- Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford University, Oxford, England, UK
| | - Meghna Ranganathan
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England, UK
| | - Alexa Yakubovich
- Dalhousie University, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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De Filippo A, Bellatin P, Tietz N, Grant E, Whitefield A, Nkopane P, Devereux C, Crawford K, Vermeulen B, Hatcher AM. Effects of digital chatbot on gender attitudes and exposure to intimate partner violence among young women in South Africa. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000358. [PMID: 37844088 PMCID: PMC10578594 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa has among the highest rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) globally, with young women at heightened risk due to inequitable gender roles, limited relationship skills, and inadequate social support. Despite an urgent need for violence prevention in low- and middle-income settings, most efficacious approaches are time-intensive and costly to deliver. Digital, interactive chatbots may help young women navigate safer relationships and develop healthier gender beliefs and skills. METHODS Young women (18-24 years old) across South Africa were recruited via Facebook for participation in an individually randomised controlled trial (n = 19,643) during the period of June 2021-September 2021. Users were randomly allocated, using a pipeline algorithm, to one of four trial arms: Pure Control (PC) had no user engagement outside of study measures; Attention Treatment (T0) provided didactic information about sexual health through a text-based chatbot; Gamified Treatment (T1) was a behaviourally-informed gamified text-based chatbot; Narrative Treatment (T2) was a behaviourally-informed drama delivered through pre-recorded voice notes. All chatbots were delivered in WhatsApp, through which users were invited to complete brief "quizzes" comprising adapted versions of validated scales. Primary outcomes were short-form adaptations of scales for gender attitudes (Gender Relations Scale) and past-month IPV (WHO Multi-country Study Instrument). Secondary outcomes were identification of unhealthy relationship behaviours (Intimate Partner Violence Attitudes Scale) and brief screener for depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire). A direct chat link to a trained counsellor was a safety measure (accessed by 4.5% of the sample). We estimated treatment effects using ordinary least squares and heteroskedasticity robust standard errors. FINDINGS The trial retained 11,630 (59.2%) to the primary endpoint of gender attitudes. Compared to control, all treatments led to moderate and significant changes in attitudes towards greater gender equity (Cohen's D = 0.10, 0.29, 0.20 for T0, T1, and T2, respectively). The gamified chatbot (T1) had modest but significant effects on IPV: 56% of young women reported past-month IPV, compared to 62% among those without treatment (marginal effects = -0.07, 95%CI = -0.09to-0.05). The narrative treatment (T2) had no effect on IPV exposure. T1 increased identification of unhealthy relationship behaviours at a moderate and significant level (Cohen's D = 0.25). Neither T1 nor T2 had a measurable effect on depressive symptoms as measured by the brief screener. Interpretation: A behaviourally-informed, gamified chatbot increased gender equitable attitudes and was protective for IPV exposure among young women in South Africa. These effects, while modest in magnitude, could represent a meaningful impact given potential to scale the low-cost intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paloma Bellatin
- Behavioral Insights Team, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Eli Grant
- Independent consultant, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Alexander Whitefield
- Behavioural Insights Team, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Economics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | | | | | | | - Abigail M. Hatcher
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Bergenfeld I, Kaslow NJ, Yount KM, Cheong YF, Johnson ER, Clark CJ. Measurement invariance of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Scale-Depression within and across six diverse intervention trials. Psychol Assess 2023; 35:805-820. [PMID: 37616094 PMCID: PMC10662958 DOI: 10.1037/pas0001262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Depression, a major contributor to the global burden of disease, is an outcome of interest in clinical trials. Researchers and clinicians note that depression often presents differently across cultures, posing challenges in the accurate measurement of depressive symptoms across populations. A commonly used self-administered screening tool to measure depressive symptoms, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Scale-Depression (CES-D), has been translated into dozens of languages and used in thousands of studies, yet gaps remain in our understanding of its factor structure and invariance across studies and over time in the context of interventions. In this secondary analysis, we sampled six recent trials from lower- and middle-income countries to (a) establish the factor structure of the CES-D, (b) assess measurement invariance of the CES-D across treatment versus control arms and over time, (c) examine cross-study invariance, and (d) identify items that may be driving potential noninvariance. We performed exploratory/confirmatory factor analysis to establish the factor structure of the CES-D within each trial and used multiple group confirmatory analysis to assess within-study cross-arm/cross-time and cross-study invariance. After removal of positive affect items, a unidimensional model performed equivalently over time and across arms within trials, but exhibited noninvariance across trials, supporting prior literature describing differences in factor structure of the scale across populations. While our findings suggest that the CES-D without positive affect items is a valid measure of depressive symptoms within trials in our sample, caution is warranted in interpreting the findings of meta-analyses and multisite/multicountry studies using the CES-D as an outcome measure. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Bergenfeld
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Kathryn M. Yount
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University, Department of Sociology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yuk Fai Cheong
- Emory University, Department of Psychology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Erin R. Johnson
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cari J. Clark
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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DeHond A, Brady F, Kalokhe AS. Prevention of Perpetration of Intimate Partner Violence by Men and Boys in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review of Primary Prevention Interventions. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:2412-2428. [PMID: 35511498 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221097441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) affects the health of women across the globe, with the greatest burden encountered by women in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This scoping review aims to summarize and critically examine primary prevention interventions addressing IPV perpetration by men and boys in LMICs and identify gaps in the evidence base. PubMed, EMbase, and PsychINFO were searched for articles published between January 2001 and October 2020 that examined the efficacy of primary prevention interventions to prevent IPV perpetration by men/boys in LMICs and reported on a quantitative outcome examining IPV perpetration. Data on study population, setting and design, intervention components, evaluation methods, and outcomes were extracted, and study quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project tool. Of 8,392 articles, 16 intervention studies met inclusion criteria. All 16 were of moderate or weak quality. The majority were conducted in Africa, delivered by peers, theoretically grounded, and included content to challenge IPV acceptance and gender norms. Half demonstrated intervention efficacy in prevention of IPV perpetration; these studies tended to intervene at multiple levels of the Socio-Ecological Model, be delivered over a minimum of eight sessions, and utilize a validated IPV measure to assess intervention impact. In conclusion, the field of IPV perpetration prevention research in LMICs is rapidly evolving, with many interventions demonstrating promise. Future intervention studies should consider expanding to LMICs outside Africa, targeting school-age youth, exploring whether shorter intervention durations are effective, and addressing the methodological shortcomings noted in the quality assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allayna DeHond
- Department of Global Health, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Forrest Brady
- Department of Global Health, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ameeta S Kalokhe
- Department of Global Health, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Johnson LF, Kubjane M, de Voux A, Ohrnberger J, Tlali M. An agent-based model of binge drinking, inequitable gender norms and their contribution to HIV transmission, with application to South Africa. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:500. [PMID: 37516819 PMCID: PMC10385913 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08470-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Binge drinking, inequitable gender norms and sexual risk behaviour are closely interlinked. This study aims to model the potential effect of alcohol counselling interventions (in men and women) and gender-transformative interventions (in men) as strategies to reduce HIV transmission. METHODS We developed an agent-based model of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, allowing for effects of binge drinking on sexual risk behaviour, and effects of inequitable gender norms (in men) on sexual risk behaviour and binge drinking. The model was applied to South Africa and was calibrated using data from randomized controlled trials of alcohol counselling interventions (n = 9) and gender-transformative interventions (n = 4) in sub-Saharan Africa. The model was also calibrated to South African data on alcohol consumption and acceptance of inequitable gender norms. Binge drinking was defined as five or more drinks on a single day, in the last month. RESULTS Binge drinking is estimated to be highly prevalent in South Africa (54% in men and 35% in women, in 2021), and over the 2000-2021 period 54% (95% CI: 34-74%) of new HIV infections occurred in binge drinkers. Binge drinking accounted for 6.8% of new HIV infections (0.0-32.1%) over the same period, which was mediated mainly by an effect of binge drinking in women on engaging in casual sex. Inequitable gender norms accounted for 17.5% of incident HIV infections (0.0-68.3%), which was mediated mainly by an effect of inequitable gender norms on male partner concurrency. A multi-session alcohol counselling intervention that reaches all binge drinkers would reduce HIV incidence by 1.2% (0.0-2.5%) over a 5-year period, while a community-based gender-transformative intervention would reduce incidence by 3.2% (0.8-7.2%) or by 7.3% (0.6-21.2%) if there was no waning of intervention impact. CONCLUSIONS Although binge drinking and inequitable gender norms contribute substantially to HIV transmission in South Africa, recently-trialled alcohol counselling and gender-transformative interventions are likely to have only modest effects on HIV incidence. Further innovation in developing locally-relevant interventions to address binge drinking and inequitable gender norms is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leigh F Johnson
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town, 7925, Observatory, South Africa.
| | - Mmamapudi Kubjane
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town, 7925, Observatory, South Africa
| | - Alex de Voux
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Julius Ohrnberger
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Mpho Tlali
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town, 7925, Observatory, South Africa
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Keith T, Hyslop F, Richmond R. A Systematic Review of Interventions to Reduce Gender-Based Violence Among Women and Girls in Sub-Saharan Africa. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:1443-1464. [PMID: 35057674 DOI: 10.1177/15248380211068136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is disproportionately affected by gender-based violence (GBV). We systematically reviewed English language, peer-reviewed, quantitative evaluations of interventions to reduce violence against women and girls (VAWG) in SSA that involved a comparison group and reported GBV incidence, or GBV-related attitudes, norms and symptoms as an outcome. We identified 53 studies published between January 2000 and April 2020 and classified these programmes from an empowerment perspective using the following categories: social, economic, combined social and economic and psychological empowerment interventions. Our review found social empowerment interventions effective for transforming gender attitudes and norms and reducing GBV, and psychological empowerment interventions effective for managing GBV-related symptoms. The evidence for economic empowerment interventions was equivocal. Key elements of successful interventions included participatory group learning, engaging male partners, engaging the community, longer duration and utilising existing platforms. Promising approaches for further research included gender specific programmes, psychological empowerment interventions delivered by lay workers and psychological empowerment interventions focused on GBV reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Keith
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Fran Hyslop
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Robyn Richmond
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
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Underwood CR, Casella A, Hendrickson ZM. Gender norms, contraceptive use, and intimate partner violence: A six-country analysis. SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE 2023; 35:100815. [PMID: 36738730 DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2023.100815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While considerable research has explored associations between gender norms and various sexual and reproductive health behaviors (SRH) with the aim of informing programs, no studies have examined whether couple concordance on specific gender norms is associated with both contraceptive use and reduced intimate partner violence (IPV) experience. METHODS This study relies on analysis of Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) couples' datasets from Mali, Nigeria, Nepal, Pakistan, Tanzania, and Zambia that were collected in/after 2015 and include the DHS Domestic Violence Module for female respondents. To examine the associations between couple concordance regarding household decision-making or justification of violence (wife beating) and women's use of modern contraceptives or experience of violence, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fit using Stata15. RESULTS Joint decision-making about large household purchases was significantly positively associated with modern contraceptive use in all study countries as well as with reduced odds of IPV experience in adjusted models in Tanzania and Zambia. In Nigeria, women's justification for violence was negatively associated with contraceptive use. Across settings, women in couples where both justified violence had significantly increased odds of reporting IPV experience. CONCLUSIONS The evidence suggests that family planning programs should support joint decision-making as it was positively associated with contraceptive use across the six countries and is a proxy for shared economic power within the household. IPV reduction and prevention programs should also consider encouraging joint decision-making given the correlations found in two settings. Programs should enable participants to interrogate attitudes regarding justifying violence against female partners and propose approaches to avoid IPV. Finally, husbands' alcohol consumption, a strong predictor of IPV experience, has too long been overlooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol R Underwood
- Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Health, Behavior & Society, USA; Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, USA.
| | | | - Zoé Mistrale Hendrickson
- Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Health, Behavior & Society, USA; Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, USA
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Gram L, Paradkar S, Osrin D, Daruwalla N, Cislaghi B. 'Our courage has grown': a grounded theory study of enablers and barriers to community action to address violence against women in urban India. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e011304. [PMID: 36690379 PMCID: PMC9872482 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-011304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming communities into supportive environments for women facing risks of violence requires community members to play an active role in addressing violence against women (VAW). We did a grounded theory study of enablers and barriers to community response to ongoing violence, sampling from programme areas of a non-governmental organisation (NGO)-led community mobilisation intervention in informal settlements in Mumbai, India. We held 27 focus group discussions and 31 semistructured interviews with 113 community members and 9 NGO staff, along with over 170 hours of field observation. We found that residents responded to violence in diverse ways, ranging from suicide prevention to couple mediation to police and NGO referral. Enabling and constraining factors fit into a social ecological model containing intrapersonal, immediate social network, and wider societal levels. We identified four themes interlinking factors: legitimacy of action, collective power, protection against risk and informal leadership. Legitimacy of action was negotiated in the context of individual disputes, making community members question not only whether VAW was 'wrong', but who was 'wrong' in specific disputes. Collective power through neighbourhood solidarity was key to action but could be curtailed by violent gang crime. Interveners in incidents of VAW turned out to need significant physical, social and legal protection against reprisal. However, repeat interveners could become informal leaders wielding influential prosocial reputations that incentivised and facilitated action. Our model integrates multiple perspectives on community action into one analytical framework, which can be used by implementers to ensure that community members receive encouragement, support and protection to act.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Gram
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sukanya Paradkar
- Society for Nutrition, Education and Health Action (SNEHA), Mumbai, India
| | - David Osrin
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nayreen Daruwalla
- Society for Nutrition, Education and Health Action (SNEHA), Mumbai, India
| | - Beniamino Cislaghi
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Mlay JP, Jamieson L, Ntlantsana V, Naidu T, Bhengu BS, Paruk S, Burns JK, Chiliza B, Lessells R, Tomita A. Developing and testing unconditional cash transfer strategies among young adults with first-episode psychosis in South Africa: a study protocol for a pilot randomised control trial (PRS-FEP trial). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e067026. [PMID: 36576187 PMCID: PMC9723892 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Access to mental health services is a challenge, especially for young people who are over-represented in the unemployment and poverty index in South Africa. Therefore, continuing care is a problem after hospital discharge for young people with first-episode psychosis (FEP) due to a lack of clinical engagement and follow-up, for which they need support, including financial, to improve their outcomes. This pilot randomised control trial (RCT) aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of financial support, in the form of an unconditional cash transfer (UCT), among young patients with FEP to prevent relapse. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study will use a 1:1 ratio two-arm open-label pilot RCT of 60 young participants (18-29 years) with FEP in remission, who will be recruited from specialised psychiatric facilities in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. This study will implement an UCT and assess its feasibility, acceptability and preliminary clinical outcomes (ie, medication adherence, relapse, quality of life, personal and social function). The follow-up time will be 3 months, the outcomes being measured at baseline, months 1 and 3. Descriptive and conventional content analysis will be done for quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study obtained provisional approval from the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee at the University of KwaZulu-Natal(#BREC/00004117/2022). Also is registered on the South African National clinical trial registry (#DOH-27-092022-5894) and approved by the KwaZulu-Natal department of health (#NHRD Ref: KZ_2002209_033). The results from this investigation will be actively disseminated through peer-reviewed journal publications, conference presentations and stakeholder engagement. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER DOH-27-092022-5894.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Protas Mlay
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Lise Jamieson
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Vuyokazi Ntlantsana
- Discipline of Psychiatry, University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Thirusha Naidu
- Discipline of Behavioural Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Nursing and Public Health, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Busisiwe Siphumelele Bhengu
- Discipline of Psychiatry, University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Saeeda Paruk
- Discipline of Psychiatry, University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Jonathan K Burns
- Discipline of Psychiatry, University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute of Health Research, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Bonginkosi Chiliza
- Discipline of Psychiatry, University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Richard Lessells
- Centre for the Aids Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Andrew Tomita
- KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Centre for Rural Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Duby Z, Bergh K, Jonas K, Reddy T, Bunce B, Fowler C, Mathews C. “Men Rule… this is the Normal Thing. We Normalise it and it’s Wrong”: Gendered Power in Decision-Making Around Sex and Condom Use in Heterosexual Relationships Amongst Adolescents and Young People in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:2015-2029. [PMID: 36441410 PMCID: PMC10149448 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03935-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AbstractWe examined power and decision-making in heterosexual relationships amongst South African adolescents and young people. A survey conducted with 515 adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) included items from the Sexual Relationship Power Scale (SRPS) adapted for South African women. Qualitative interviews with fifty AGYW aged between 15 and 24, and nine males aged 18 years and above, explored decision-making in heterosexual relationships, particularly relating to timing of sex and condom use. Theories of gendered power, sexual relationship power and sexual scripting were used in interpreting the data. Findings showed that the power AGYW have in sexual relationships determines their ability to use condoms, and that males generally control condom use and timing of sex. Both survey and interview data suggest that male control over female partners’ behaviour also extends beyond the sexual domain. Although while male power is pervasive and enduring, it is simultaneously contested and negotiated. Despite some young people believing that gendered power in decision-making should be equal, it is not always possible for AGYW to enact agency in the dyadic context of heterosexual relationships. Whilst adolescents and young people in South Africa move away from traditional cultural gendered expectations, relationship power inequity and hegemonic masculinities continue to legitimise men’s power over women, constraining the sexual agency of adolescent girls and young women and discouraging them from taking control of their own sexual interests and sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Duby
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences in the School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Kate Bergh
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kim Jonas
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tarylee Reddy
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brittany Bunce
- Institute for Global Sustainable Development (IGSD), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Chantal Fowler
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences in the School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Catherine Mathews
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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Community Mobilization is Associated with HIV Testing Behaviors and Their Psychosocial Antecedents Among Zambian Adults: Results from a Population-Based Study. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:1682-1693. [PMID: 36307741 PMCID: PMC10140187 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03900-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Community mobilization (CM) is a vital yet under-explored avenue for increasing HIV testing in generalized HIV epidemic settings. Using multi-stage cluster sampling, a population-based sample of 3535 Zambian adults (mean age: 28 years, 50% women) were recruited from 14 districts to complete a household survey. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to re-validate a 23-item, 5-factor CM scale. Multivariable logistic and Poisson regression were then used to identify associations of CM with HIV testing behaviors and their psychosocial antecedents. A 21-item, 3-factor ("Leadership", "Collective Action Capacity", and "Social Cohesion") CM solution emerged from EFA (Cronbach's α 0.88). Among men and in rural settings, higher CM was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with elevated odds of HIV testing and more past-year HIV testing discussion sources, controlling for socio-demographics and sexual behaviors. Results underscore the importance of prioritizing CM to cultivate more favorable environments for HIV testing uptake, especially for men and rural residents.
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Lippman SA, Pettifor A, Dufour MSK, Kabudula CW, Twine R, Peacock D, Mathebula R, Julien A, West R, Neilands TB, Wagner R, Gottert A, Gómez-Olivé FX, Rebombo D, Haberland N, Pulerwitz J, Majuba LP, Tollman S, Kahn K. A community mobilisation intervention to improve engagement in HIV testing, linkage to care, and retention in care in South Africa: a cluster-randomised controlled trial. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e617-e626. [PMID: 36055294 PMCID: PMC10617423 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community mobilisation, engaging communities in a process to collectively enact change, could improve HIV testing and care engagement. In South Africa, current rates fall below those needed for epidemic control. We assessed whether community mobilisation increased HIV testing, linkage to care, and retention in care over time in intervention relative to control communities. METHODS We conducted a cluster-randomised controlled trial in villages in the Agincourt sub-district of the rural Mpumalanga Province in South Africa. 15 villages were randomly assigned to either a community mobilisation intervention engaging residents to address social barriers to HIV testing and treatment (intervention arm) or to a control arm using balanced randomisation. Villages were eligible if they had been fully enumerated in 2014, had not been included in previous mobilisation activities, and included over 500 permanent adult residents aged 18-49 years. Primary outcomes included quarterly rates of HIV testing, linkage to care, and retention in care documented from health facility records among residents of the intervention and control communities over the 3-year study period. Intention-to-treat analyses employed generalised estimating equations stratified by sex. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02197793. FINDINGS Between Aug 1, 2015, and July 31, 2018, residents in eight intervention communities (n=20 544 residents) and seven control communities (n=17 848) contributed data; 92 residents contributed to both arms. Among men, HIV testing increased quarterly by 12·1% (relative change [RC] 1·121, 95% CI 1·099 to 1·143, p<0·0001) in the intervention communities and 9·5% (1·095, 1·075 to 1·114, p=0·011) in the control communities; although increases in testing were greater in the intervention villages, differences did not reach significance (exponentiated interaction coefficient 1·024, 95% CI 0·997 to 1·052, p=0·078). Among women, HIV testing increased quarterly by 10·6% (RC 1·106, 95% CI 1·097 to 1·114, p<0·0001) in the intervention communities and 9·3% (1·093, 1·084 to 1·102, p=0·053) in the control communities; increases were greater in intervention communities (exponentiated interaction coefficient 1·012, 95% CI 1·001 to 1·023, p=0·043). Quarterly linkage increased significantly among women in the intervention communities (RC 1·013, 95% CI 1·002 to 1·023, p=0·018) only. Quarterly linkage fell among men in both arms, but decreased significantly among men in the control communities (0·977, 0·954 to 1·002, p=0·043). Quarterly retention fell among women in both arms; however, reductions were tempered among women in the intervention communities (exponentiated interaction coefficient 1·003, 95% CI <1·000 to 1·006, p=0·062). Retention fell significantly among men in both arms with difference in rates of decline. INTERPRETATION Community mobilisation was associated with modest improvements in select trial outcomes. The sum of these incremental, quarterly improvements achieved by addressing social barriers to HIV care engagement can impact epidemic control. However, achieving optimal impacts will probably require integrated efforts addressing both social barriers through community mobilisation and provision of improved service delivery. FUNDING US National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health, and United States President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through Right to Care and Project SOAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri A Lippman
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA; MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Mi-Suk Kang Dufour
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA; Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Chodziwadziwa Whiteson Kabudula
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Aimée Julien
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Rebecca West
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Ryan Wagner
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ann Gottert
- Population Council/Project SOAR, Washington, DC, USA
| | - F Xavier Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Stephen Tollman
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Kuo C, LoVette A, Slingers N, Mathews C. Predictors of Resilience Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Violence in South Africa. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP13425-NP13445. [PMID: 33829915 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211005158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
South Africa has some of the highest rates of intimate partner and sexual violence globally, with prevalence ranging from 10% to 21% among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). Yet, few studies characterize the relationship between violence and resilience. Identifying factors associated with resilience following exposure to violence can guide the development of strength-based interventions that change modifiable protective factors to bolster resilience. Data were derived from a cross-sectional survey of AGYW aged 15 to 24 years in South Africa that took place from 2017 to 2018. This survey was part of a national evaluation of a South African combination HIV intervention for AGYW funded by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria. A sample of 4,399 observations was achieved through a systematic random sampling frame of 35% of households in districts where AGYW were at highest risk for HIV, and where the intervention was implemented. Resilience was assessed using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. Intimate partner and sexual violence were assessed using: (a) an adapted version of a questionnaire from the World Health Organization's 2005 multicountry study on domestic violence against women, and (b) questions on lifetime experience of forced sex/rape. Nearly a third of AGYW (29.6%) reported intimate partner emotional and/or physical and/or sexual violence in the past year. Nearly a quarter of AGYW (23.74%) reported emotional violence, 17.48% reported physical violence, and 6.37% reported sexual violence from intimate partners. Nearly 8% (7.72%) reported forced sex/rape from intimate partners and/or nonpartners. More equitable gender norms, higher social support, and hazardous drinking were positively associated with higher resilience among those who experienced physical or sexual violence. This study addresses a gap in the resilience and violence literature. Future research should focus on the development of resilience-promoting interventions for individuals who have experienced violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kuo
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Boston Center for AIDS Research, Providence, RI, USA
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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17
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Pulerwitz J, Valenzuela C, Gottert A, Siu G, Shabangu P, Mathur S. "A man without money getting a sexual partner? It doesn't exist in our community": male partners' perspectives on transactional sexual relationships in Uganda and Eswatini. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2022; 24:968-982. [PMID: 33821761 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2021.1904521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Research on transactional sexual relationships has largely focused on women's perspectives. Better understanding the men's views-especially regarding relationships with adolescent girls and young women-can inform HIV prevention efforts. In 2017, 134 in-depth interviews were conducted with the male partners of girls and young women aged 19-47 years, 94 in Uganda and 40 in Eswatini. Respondents were recruited at venues such as bars where men and potential partners meet and through other young women. Most respondents believed that providing money/gifts was the way to establish relationships with women in their communities, a context that some found undesirable. Young women were mainly perceived as actively pursuing transactional sex for material goods, but respondents also described economically impoverished women who were manipulated into relationships. Men described conflict with longer term partners as a driver to seeking younger partners, who were more compliant. Transaction dominates the male partners of adolescent girls and young women's understanding of sexual relationships, and inequitable power dynamics are reinforced by seeking younger partners. However, some respondents' discontent with this dynamic suggests an opportunity for change. HIV prevention programmes should directly address the underlying drivers of transactional relationships (e.g. gender norms) and work with men who question the practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - A Gottert
- Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
| | - G Siu
- Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - P Shabangu
- Institute for Health Measurement-Southern Africa, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - S Mathur
- Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
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Bhushan NL, Stoner MCD, Groves AK, Kahn K, Pettifor AE. Partnership Dynamics and HIV-Related Sexual Behaviors Among Adolescent Mothers in South Africa: A Longitudinal Analysis of HIV Prevention Trials Network 068 Data. J Adolesc Health 2022; 71:63-69. [PMID: 35370076 PMCID: PMC9232891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In South Africa, adolescent mothers have a three times higher risk of HIV acquisition than nonadolescent mothers. Yet, limited evidence exists regarding how early childbearing may affect HIV risk. A better understanding of adolescent mothers' partnership dynamics and sexual behaviors is critical to tailoring interventions to prevent new infections. METHODS Data are from HIV Prevention Trials Network 068, a longitudinal study of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) aged 13-20 in South Africa who were followed annually for up to 6 years. Log-binomial regression models were used to assess whether adolescent motherhood was associated with partnership dynamics (intimate partner violence, gender inequitable norms, low relationship power, no HIV prevention communication) and if the association between partnership dynamics and sexual behaviors (unprotected sex and transactional sex) varied by adolescent motherhood. Generalized estimating equations, with an exchangeable correlation structure, were used to account for nonindependence. RESULTS Adolescent mothers were more likely than nonadolescent mothers to be in partnerships characterized by intimate partner violence, low relationship power, gender inequitable norms, and no HIV prevention communication. A higher proportion were also more likely to experience these dynamics, as well as engage in transactional sex, after giving birth. Poor partnership dynamics put AGYW at a higher risk for unprotected sex and transactional sex, regardless of adolescent motherhood status. DISCUSSION Engaging adolescent mothers in interventions post birth and developing interventions that address power imbalances in AGYW's sexual partnerships have the potential to reduce engagement in HIV-related sexual behaviors and HIV risk in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nivedita L Bhushan
- Center for Communication Science, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
| | - Marie C D Stoner
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, California
| | - Allison K Groves
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Audrey E Pettifor
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa; Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Floyd S, Mulwa S, Magut F, Gourlay A, Mthiyane N, Kamire V, Osindo J, Otieno M, Chimbindi N, Ziraba A, Phillips-Howard P, Kwaro D, Shahmanesh M, Birdthistle I. DREAMS impact on HIV status knowledge and sexual risk among cohorts of young women in Kenya and South Africa. AIDS 2022; 36:S61-S73. [PMID: 35766576 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought evidence of DREAMS' impact on uptake of services and sexual risk among adolescent-girls-and-young-women (AGYW). DESIGN Cohorts of AGYW aged 13-22 years were randomly selected in 2017-2018 and followed-up to 2019; 1081 in Nairobi, Kenya;1171 in Gem, western Kenya;and 2184 in uMkhanyakude, South Africa. METHODS Outcomes were knowledge of HIV status, condomless sex (past 12 months), lifetime partners, transactional sex (past 12 months), and awareness and use of condoms and pre-exposure-prophylaxis (PrEP). Using a causal inference framework, we estimated the proportions with each outcome if all vs. none were DREAMS invitees by 2018. RESULTS Among AGYW followed up in 2019, the percentage invited to DREAMS by 2018 was 74, 57, and 53% in Nairobi, Gem, and uMkhanyakude, respectively. By 2018, the estimated percentages of AGYW who would know their HIV status, comparing the scenarios that all vs. none were DREAMS invitees, were 86 vs. 56% in Nairobi, 80 vs. 68% in Gem, and 56 vs. 49% in uMkhanyakude. By 2019, awareness of condoms and PrEP was high among DREAMS invitees, but recent participation in condom promotion activities was less than 50% and recent PrEP use was around 0-10%. In Gem, there was evidence of a reduction attributable to DREAMS in condomless sex, and among younger AGYW in the number of lifetime partners;in Nairobi evidence of a reduction in condomless sex among sexually active older AGYW;and in uMkhanya-kude no evidence that DREAMS changed these outcomes. CONCLUSION Alongside sustaining high levels of knowledge of HIV status, more is needed to link AGYW into prevention methods such as PrEP and condoms.Comprehensive HIV prevention promotes safer sexual partnerships, but poverty, social norms, and inequalities limit AGYW's prevention choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sian Floyd
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Sarah Mulwa
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
- Africa Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Faith Magut
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Annabelle Gourlay
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | | | - Vivienne Kamire
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Jane Osindo
- Africa Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Moses Otieno
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Abdhalah Ziraba
- Africa Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Daniel Kwaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Isolde Birdthistle
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
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20
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Mthiyane N, Baisley K, Chimbindi N, Zuma T, Okesola N, Dreyer J, Herbst C, Smit T, Danaviah S, McGrath N, Harling G, Sherr L, Seeley J, Floyd S, Birdthistle I, Shahmanesh M. The association of exposure to DREAMS on sexually acquiring or transmitting HIV amongst adolescent girls and young women living in rural South Africa. AIDS 2022; 36:S39-S49. [PMID: 35766574 PMCID: PMC10700028 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigate how risk of sexually acquiring or transmitting HIV in adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) changed following the real-world implementation of DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS free, Mentored and Safe) HIV prevention programme. DESIGN A representative population-based prospective cohort study of AGYW living in rural KwaZulu-Natal. METHODS Between 2017 and 2019, we interviewed a random sample of AGYW aged 13-22 years annually. We measured exposure to DREAMS as self-reported receipt of an invitation to participate and/or participation in DREAMS activities that were provided by DREAMS implementing organizations. HIV and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) statuses were ascertained through blood tests on Dried Blood Spot (DBS). We used multivariable regression analysis to assess the association between exposure to DREAMS and risk of acquiring HIV: measured as incident HSV-2 (a proxy of sexual risk) and incident HIV;and the risk of sexually transmitting HIV: measured as being HIV positive with a detectable HIV viral load (≥50 copie/ml) on the last available DBS. We adjusted for sociodemographic, sexual relationship, and migration. RESULTS Two thousand one hundred and eighty-four (86.4%) of those eligible agreed to participate and 2016 (92.3%) provided data for at least one follow-up time-point. One thousand and thirty (54%) were exposed to DREAMS;HIV and HSV-2 incidence were 2.2/100 person-years [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.66-2.86] and 17.3/100 person-years (95% CI 15.5-19.4), respectively. There was no evidence that HSV-2 and HIV incidence were lower in those exposed to DREAMS: adjusted rate ratio (aRR) 0.96 (95% CI 0.76-1.23 and 0.83 (95% CI 0.46-1.52), respectively. HIV viral load was detectable for 169 (8.9%) respondents;there was no evidence this was lower in those exposed to DREAMS with an adjusted risk difference, compared with those not exposed to DREAMS, of 0.99% (95% CI-1.52 to 3.82]. Participants who lived in peri-urban/ urban setting were more likely to have incident HIV and transmissible HIV. Both HSV-2 incidence and the transmissible HIV were associated with older age and ever having sex. Findings did not differ substantively by respondent age group. CONCLUSION DREAMS exposure was not associated with measurable reductions in risk of sexually acquiring or transmitting HIV amongst a representative cohort of AGYW in rural South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathy Baisley
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Natsayi Chimbindi
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Thembelihle Zuma
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | | | - Jaco Dreyer
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Carina Herbst
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Theresa Smit
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Siva Danaviah
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Nuala McGrath
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Guy Harling
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health & Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), University of the Witwatersrand, Gauteng, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology & Harvard Centre for Population and Development Studies, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sian Floyd
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Brown AN. Some Interventions to Shift Meta-Norms Are Effective for Changing Behaviors in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Rapid Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:7312. [PMID: 35742556 PMCID: PMC9223853 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Social-norms approaches are increasingly included in behavior-change programming. Recent reviews categorize a large number of norms-shifting programs but do not synthesize evidence about effectiveness. To inform the design of social and behavior-change programs in low- and middle-income countries in response to time-sensitive demands, this rapid systematic review examines the evidence for the effectiveness of interventions that use norms-based approaches to change behavior. Nine indexes and eight websites were electronically searched for both systematic reviews and primary studies. Abstracts and full texts were screened to include: documents published in 2010 and later; documents evaluating the effectiveness of programs that include norms-based approaches; documents measuring behavioral outcomes; and documents employing quantitative analysis of concurrent treatment and comparison groups. Data collected include participant age cohort, program name and duration, scope of norms, intervention activities, category of behavioral outcome, and statement of findings for the main behavioral outcome(s). Primary studies were appraised based on identification strategy. Search and screening yielded 7 systematic reviews and 29 primary studies covering 28 programs. Across the primary studies, the programs are highly heterogeneous, and the findings are mixed, with some strong positive effects and many marginal or null effects on behavior change. Taken together, the evidence shows that meta-norms-based approaches can be part of effective programs but do not assure that programs will change behaviors. Program designers can draw some general conclusions from this review but can also use it to locate specific studies relevant to their evidence needs.
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22
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Kapadia-Kundu N, Tamene H, Ayele M, Dana F, Heliso S, Velu S, Berhanu T, Alemayehu G, Leslie L, Kaufman M. Applying a gender lens to social norms, couple communication and decision making to increase modern contraceptive use in Ethiopia, a mixed methods study. Reprod Health 2022; 19:138. [PMID: 35765014 PMCID: PMC9237964 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-022-01440-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethiopia, sub-Saharan Africa's second most populous country has seen improvements in women's reproductive health. The study objectives are (1) using mixed methods research, to identify determinants of contraceptive use in four regions of Ethiopia, and (2) to explore the relationship between social norms, gender equitable norms, couple communication and contraceptive use. METHODS The study includes both quantitative and qualitative methods. Researchers interviewed a total of 2770 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) in 2016 using a structured survey covering six health areas. Eligible households were identified using a multi-stage cluster-sampling technique. Using probability proportionate to size sampling, the researchers selected 10% of the proposed target woredas (24 of 240 woredas). The qualitative study included 8 rapid assessments, 16 in-depth interviews, 24 key informant interviews, and 16 focus group discussions. Qualitative data were analyzed using NVivo version 8. RESULTS Adjusted odds ratios were estimated for current modern family planning use among married women with logistic regression. The primary influencing factors for contraceptive use are gender equitable norms, high self-efficacy, and weekly exposure to the radio. Qualitative data indicate that the timing of contraceptive use is linked to the social norm of the desired family size of 4-5 children. Gender inequity is evident in couple communication with men controlling decision making even if women initiated conversations on family planning. A key finding based on an inductive analysis of qualitative data indicates that the micro-processes of couple communication and decision making are often dictated by male advantage. The study identified six micro-processes that lead to gender inequity which need to be further examined and researched. CONCLUSIONS Barriers to contraceptive use include unequal couple communication and compromised decision making. Inequitable gender norms are also barriers to modern contraceptive use. The study recommends using a gender lens to study couple communication and decision making, with the goal of making both processes more equitable to accelerate the adoption of modern family planning methods in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandita Kapadia-Kundu
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, 111 Market Place, Suite 310, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA.
| | - Habtamu Tamene
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, Ethiopia, Africa Avenue (Bole Road) Dembel City Center 10th Floor, P.O. Box: 26171 Code 1000, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Minyahil Ayele
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, Ethiopia, Africa Avenue (Bole Road) Dembel City Center 10th Floor, P.O. Box: 26171 Code 1000, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Feleke Dana
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, Ethiopia, Africa Avenue (Bole Road) Dembel City Center 10th Floor, P.O. Box: 26171 Code 1000, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Simon Heliso
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, Ethiopia, Africa Avenue (Bole Road) Dembel City Center 10th Floor, P.O. Box: 26171 Code 1000, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sanjanthi Velu
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, 111 Market Place, Suite 310, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA
| | - Tsega Berhanu
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, Ethiopia, Africa Avenue (Bole Road) Dembel City Center 10th Floor, P.O. Box: 26171 Code 1000, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Guda Alemayehu
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID/Ethiopia), 3Q57+9C7, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Lindsey Leslie
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, 111 Market Place, Suite 310, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA
| | - Michelle Kaufman
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs, 111 Market Place, Suite 310, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA
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23
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Schaaf M, Boydell V, Topp SM, Iyer A, Sen G, Askew I. A summative content analysis of how programmes to improve the right to sexual and reproductive health address power. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2022-008438. [PMID: 35443940 PMCID: PMC9021801 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-008438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Power shapes all aspects of global health. The concept of power is not only useful in understanding the current situation, but it is also regularly mobilised in programmatic efforts that seek to change power relations. This paper uses summative content analysis to describe how sexual and reproductive health (SRH) programmes in low-income and middle-income countries explicitly and implicitly aim to alter relations of power. METHODS Content analysis is a qualitative approach to analysing textual data; in our analysis, peer-reviewed articles that describe programmes aiming to alter power relations to improve SRH constituted the data. We searched three databases, ultimately including 108 articles. We extracted the articles into a spreadsheet that included basic details about the paper and the programme, including what level of the social ecological model programme activities addressed. RESULTS The programmes reviewed reflect a diversity of priorities and approaches to addressing power, though most papers were largely based in a biomedical framework. Most programmes intervened at multiple levels simultaneously; some of these were 'structural' programmes that explicitly aimed to shift power relations, others addressed multiple levels using a more typical programme theory that sought to change individual behaviours and proximate drivers. This prevailing focus on proximate behaviours is somewhat mismatched with the broader literature on the power-related drivers of SRH health inequities, which explores the role of embedded norms and structures. CONCLUSION This paper adds value by summarising what the academic public health community has chosen to test and research in terms of power relations and SRH, and by raising questions about how this corresponds to the significant task of effecting change in power relations to improve the right to SRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Schaaf
- Independent Consultant, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Victoria Boydell
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Essex Faculty of Science and Health, Colchester, UK
| | - Stephanie M Topp
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Aditi Iyer
- Ramalingaswami Centre on Equity and Social Determinants of Health, Public Health Foundation of India, Bangalore, India
| | - Gita Sen
- Ramalingaswami Centre on Equity and Social Determinants of Health, Public Health Foundation of India, Bangalore, India
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24
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Chidumwa G, Chimbindi N, Herbst C, Okeselo N, Dreyer J, Zuma T, Smith T, Molina JM, Khoza T, McGrath N, Seeley J, Pillay D, Tanser F, Harling G, Sherr L, Copas A, Baisley K, Shahmanesh M. Isisekelo Sempilo study protocol for the effectiveness of HIV prevention embedded in sexual health with or without peer navigator support (Thetha Nami) to reduce prevalence of transmissible HIV amongst adolescents and young adults in rural KwaZulu-Natal: a 2 × 2 factorial randomised controlled trial. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:454. [PMID: 35255859 PMCID: PMC8900304 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12796-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antiretroviral therapy (ART) through universal test and treat (UTT) and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) substantially reduces HIV-related mortality, morbidity and incidence. Effective individual-level prevention modalities have not translated into population-level impact in southern Africa due to sub-optimal coverage among adolescents and youth who are hard to engage. We aim to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary population level effectiveness of HIV prevention services with or without peer support to reduce prevalence of transmissible HIV amongst adolescents and young adults in KwaZulu-Natal. Methods We are conducting a 2 × 2 factorial trial among young men and women aged 16–29 years, randomly selected from the Africa Health Research Institute demographic surveillance area. Participants are randomly allocated to one of four intervention combinations: 1) Standard of Care (SOC): nurse-led services for HIV testing plus ART if positive or PrEP for those eligible and negative; 2) Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH): Baseline self-collected vaginal and urine samples with study-organized clinic appointments for results, treatment and delivery of HIV testing, ART and PrEP integrated with SRH services; 3) Peer-support: Study referral of participants to a peer navigator to assess their health, social and educational needs and provide risk-informed HIV prevention, including facilitating clinic attendance; or 4) SRH + peer-support. The primary outcomes for effectiveness are: (1) the proportion of individuals with infectious HIV at 12 months and (2) uptake of risk-informed comprehensive HIV prevention services within 60 days of enrolment. At 12 months, all participants will be contacted at home and the study team will collect a dried blood spot for HIV ELISA and HIV viral load testing. Discussion This trial will enable us to understand the relative importance of SRH and peer support in creating demand for effective and risk informed biomedical HIV prevention and preliminary data on their effectiveness on reducing the prevalence of transmissible HIV amongst all adolescents and youth. Trial registration Trial Registry: clincialtrials.gov. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04532307. Registered: March 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glory Chidumwa
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Natsayi Chimbindi
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,UCL Institute for Global Health, 3rd Floor Mortimer Market Centre, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JP, UK.,University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Carina Herbst
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Nonhlanhla Okeselo
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Jaco Dreyer
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Thembelihle Zuma
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,UCL Institute for Global Health, 3rd Floor Mortimer Market Centre, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JP, UK.,University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Theresa Smith
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Jean-Michel Molina
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospitals Saint-Louis and Lariboisière, Paris, France
| | - Thandeka Khoza
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Nuala McGrath
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Deenan Pillay
- UCL Institute for Global Health, 3rd Floor Mortimer Market Centre, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JP, UK
| | - Frank Tanser
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,Lincoln University, London,, UK
| | - Guy Harling
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,UCL Institute for Global Health, 3rd Floor Mortimer Market Centre, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JP, UK.,University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.,University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- UCL Institute for Global Health, 3rd Floor Mortimer Market Centre, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JP, UK
| | - Andrew Copas
- UCL Institute for Global Health, 3rd Floor Mortimer Market Centre, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JP, UK
| | - Kathy Baisley
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- Africa Health Research Institute, Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. .,UCL Institute for Global Health, 3rd Floor Mortimer Market Centre, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JP, UK. .,University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
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Wesson PD, Lippman SA, Neilands TB, Ahern J, Kahn K, Pettifor A. Evaluating the Validity and Reliability of the Gender Equitable Men's Scale Using a Longitudinal Cohort of Adolescent Girls and Young Women in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:775-785. [PMID: 34426864 PMCID: PMC8840910 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03436-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Inequitable gender norms and beliefs contribute to increased sexual risk behavior, and, among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), risk of HIV acquisition. We investigated the longitudinal measurement properties of the Gender Equitable Men's Scale (GEMS) when applied to a cohort of AGYW in rural South Africa (2011-2015). We used item response theory [Person-Item maps, Differential Item Functioning (DIF)] and measurement invariance confirmatory factor analysis models to assess the validity and reliability of the GEMS instrument. Item difficulty and endorsement of gender equitable beliefs both shifted over time. DIF analysis identified item bias for over half of the items; influenced by age, pregnancy, sexual debut, and intimate partner violence. Measurement invariance models revealed strong longitudinal invariance properties. GEMS is a reliable longitudinal measurement of gender equitable beliefs, with notable bias for specific items when administered to subgroups. Additional items specific to the adolescent experience are warranted for a more stable assessment of gender equitable beliefs in a population facing shifting norms as they mature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul D. Wesson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, UCSF Box 0886, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA USA
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Jennifer Ahern
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA USA
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
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26
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Leddy AM, Neilands TB, Twine R, Kahn K, Ahern J, Pettifor A, Lippman SA. Examining Mediators of the Relationship Between Community Mobilization and HIV Incidence Among Young South African Women Participating in the HPTN 068 Study Cohort. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1347-1354. [PMID: 34665378 PMCID: PMC9001299 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03491-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that village community mobilization (CM) was associated with reduced HIV incidence among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in South Africa. Little remains known about the mechanisms linking CM to HIV incidence. Using longitudinal data from 2292 AGYW in the HPTN 068 cohort (2011-2017), we examined whether school attendance, pro-social engagement, and hope for the future mediated the relationship between CM and HIV incidence. CM was measured at the village-level via two population-based surveys (2012 and 2014). Mediators and incident HIV infection were measured through HPTN 068 surveys and HIV testing. Mediation analyses were conducted using Mplus 8.5, adjusting for village-level clustering and covariates. Hope for the future mediated the relationship between CM and HIV incidence (indirect effect-RR 0.98, bias-corrected 95% CI 0.96, 0.99). Pro-social engagement and school attendance did not demonstrate indirect effects. CM reduces AGYW's HIV acquisition risk, in part, by engendering hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M. Leddy
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA
| | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa ,Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jennifer Ahern
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA USA
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa ,Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA ,MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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27
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Leddy AM, Gottert A, Haberland N, Hove J, West RL, Pettifor A, Lippman SA, Kahn K, Mathebula R, Rebombo D, Gómez-Olivé X, Twine R, Peacock D, Pulerwitz J. Shifting gender norms to improve HIV service uptake: Qualitative findings from a large-scale community mobilization intervention in rural South Africa. PLoS One 2022; 16:e0260425. [PMID: 34972113 PMCID: PMC8719658 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Interventions to improve HIV service uptake are increasingly addressing inequitable and restrictive gender norms. Yet comparatively little is known about which gender norms are most salient for HIV testing and treatment and how changing these specific norms translates into HIV service uptake. To explore these questions, we implemented a qualitative study during a community mobilization trial targeting social barriers to HIV service uptake in South Africa. Methods We conducted 55 in-depth interviews in 2018, during the final months of a three-year intervention in rural Mpumalanga province. Participants included 25 intervention community members (48% women) and 30 intervention staff/community-opinion-leaders (70% women). Data were analyzed using an inductive-deductive approach. Results We identified three avenues for gender norms change which, when coupled with other strategies, were described to support HIV service uptake: (1) Challenging norms around male toughness/avoidance of help-seeking, combined with information on the health and preventive benefits of early antiretroviral therapy (ART), eased men’s fears of a positive diagnosis and facilitated HIV service uptake. (2) Challenging norms about men’s expected control over women, combined with communication and conflict resolution skill-building, encouraged couple support around HIV service uptake. (3) Challenging norms around women being solely responsible for the family’s health, combined with information about sero-discordance and why both members of the couple should be tested, encouraged men to test for HIV rather than relying on their partner’s results. Facility-level barriers such as long wait times continued to prevent some men from accessing care. Conclusions Despite continued facility-level barriers, we found that promoting critical reflection around several specific gender norms, coupled with information (e.g., benefits of ART) and skill-building (e.g., communication), were perceived to support men’s and women’s engagement in HIV services. There is a need to identify and tailor programming around specific gender norms that hinder HIV service uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M. Leddy
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Ann Gottert
- Population Council/Project SOAR, Washington, DC and New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Nicole Haberland
- Population Council/Project SOAR, Washington, DC and New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Hove
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rebecca L. West
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Xavier Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Dean Peacock
- Promundo, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Julie Pulerwitz
- Population Council/Project SOAR, Washington, DC and New York, NY, United States of America
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Stern E, Batista M, Shannon G, Heise L, Mannell J. A case study comparison of engaging community activists to prevent gender-based violence in Peru and Rwanda. Glob Public Health 2021; 17:2300-2315. [PMID: 34932917 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.2018010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Community mobilisation is recognised as an important strategy to shift inequitable gender norms and ensure an enabling environment to prevent gender-based violence (GBV). Yet there is a need to better understand the factors that facilitate effective community activism in particular contexts. Although fundamental to the success of mobilisation programmes, there is also limited appreciation of the experiences and agency of engaged community activists. This paper draws on qualitative evaluations from two community mobilisation GBV prevention programmes: the Gender Violence in the Amazon of Peru (GAP) Project and the Indashyikirwa programme in Rwanda. In Peru, participatory data was collected, in addition to baseline and endline interviews with 8 activists. In Rwanda, baseline and endline interviews and observations were conducted with 12 activists, and interviews were conducted with 8 staff members. The data was thematically analysed, and a comparative case study approach was applied to both data sets. The comparative study identified similar programmatic aspects that could hinder or enable activist's engagement and development, and how these are embedded within contextual social and structural factors. We discuss these insights in reference to the current emphasis in public health on individualistic programming, with insufficient attention to how wider environments influence violence prevention programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Stern
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Murylo Batista
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Geordan Shannon
- Institute for Global Health, University of College London, London, UK
| | - Lori Heise
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jenevieve Mannell
- Institute for Global Health, University of College London, London, UK
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Sevelius JM, Glidden DV, Deutsch M, Welborn L, Contreras A, Salinas A, Venegas L, Grant RM. Uptake, Retention, and Adherence to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in TRIUMPH: A Peer-Led PrEP Demonstration Project for Transgender Communities in Oakland and Sacramento, California. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 88:S27-S38. [PMID: 34757990 PMCID: PMC8579996 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND TRIUMPH (Trans Research-Informed communities United in Mobilization for the Prevention of HIV) was a community-led, transgender-specific pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration project at 2 community-based clinical sites in California. TRIUMPH used peer health education, community mobilization, and clinical integration of PrEP with hormone therapy to promote PrEP knowledge and acceptability. The goal of this study was to evaluate PrEP uptake, retention, and adherence among TRIUMPH participants and examine site-based differences. METHODS Eligible participants were adult transgender and gender diverse people interested in PrEP. Participants were seen at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months for PrEP provision, clinical visits, and HIV testing. PrEP uptake was defined as dispensation of PrEP, PrEP retention was defined as proportion of expected visits completed among those who initiated PrEP, and PrEP adherence was assessed by measuring tenofovir diphosphate concentrations in dried blood spots. Logistic regression models quantified the association of variables with PrEP outcomes. RESULTS TRIUMPH enrolled 185 participants; the median age was 28 years (interquartile range: 23-35), 7% was Black, and 58% was Latinx. PrEP uptake was as follows: 78% in Oakland and 98% in Sacramento; 91% among trans women, 96% among trans men, and 70% among nonbinary participants. Almost half (47%) rarely/never believed about HIV, and 42% reported condomless sex act in the past 3 months. Participants who reported higher numbers of sex partners were more likely to be retained and adherent; other predictors of adherence included not having a primary partner and not experiencing violence in the past 3 months. CONCLUSIONS This community-led, trans-specific PrEP demonstration project documents high levels of PrEP initiation in a young transgender and gender diverse cohort at risk of HIV acquisition.
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Masculinity, power and structural constraints: Men's conceptualization of emotional abuse in Mwanza, Tanzania. Soc Sci Med 2021; 292:114606. [PMID: 34861570 PMCID: PMC8783054 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence is a global problem with devastating social and health consequences to individuals and families. While some forms of intimate partner violence such as physical and sexual violence have been explored in depth, there is a lack of clarity on men's perspectives of emotional violence, particularly in low-income countries. Yet it is recognized that incorporating men's perspectives and participation is crucial for addressing intimate partner violence. We draw from in-depth interviews with 30 men and 1, 645 pictures collected through photo voice to explore men's conceptualization and experiences of emotional violence by female partners in Mwanza, Tanzania. A sub-sample of the men (n = 16) were interviewed for a second time about pictures showing different aspects of their lives. The fieldwork was conducted between April and December 2019, and the data were analyzed through a multistage inductive process. Participants described emotional violence through a narrative of ‘being hurt’ by some actions or words of their partners. These included: verbal complaints about failure to provide for family, partner's infidelity and flirting with other men, accusation of poor sexual performance, and perceived normative deviance characterized by coming home late and not carrying out domestic chores. Threatened masculinities drawing from negative communal normative ideals, and the underlying interpersonal power struggles with their partners for the control of economic provision, sexual intimacy and family matters framed men's definitions of emotional violence. Ongoing changes such as women's ownership and engagement in economic activities and the scarcity of employment opportunities for men challenges their household dominance. Multicomponent interventions should target men, couples and communal ideals reinforcing negative masculinity. Analysis of interpersonal power and structural dynamics influencing relationships must inform the design of interventions instead of the narrow focus on individual demographic attributes. Male perspectives and engagement crucial for addressing intimate partner violence. Lack of insight on female to male emotional violence in low-income contexts. Threatened masculinities underlie men's perspectives of emotional violence. Socio-economic and policy circumstances influencing power dynamics in relationships. Tackling both individual and structural factors key to addressing partner violence.
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Visser M. Evaluation of a masculinity and gender equality intervention for primary school boys. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY IN AFRICA 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14330237.2021.1978165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maretha Visser
- Department of Psychology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Caperon L, Arakelyan S, Innocenti C, Ager A. Identifying opportunities to engage communities with social mobilisation activities to tackle NCDs in El Salvador in the context of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Int J Equity Health 2021; 20:222. [PMID: 34627271 PMCID: PMC8501926 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-021-01559-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social mobilisation is potentially a key tool in the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in fragile settings. This formative study addressed existing and potential social mobilisation mechanisms seeking behaviour to tackle NCDs in El Salvador, with an emphasis on the implications in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted 19 semi-structured interviews with health workers, government officials, NGO leaders, and community members. Interviews addressed mechanisms for social mobilisation which existed prior to COVID-19, the ways in which these mechanisms tackled NCDs, the impact of COVID-19 on social mobilisation activities and new, emerging mechanisms for social mobilisation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS Findings indicate a growing awareness of NCDs within communities, with social mobilisation activities seen as valuable in tackling NCDs. However, major barriers to NCD prevention and treatment provision remain, with COVID-19 constraining many possible social mobilisation activities, leaving NCD patients with less support. Factors linked with effective social mobilisation of communities for NCD prevention included strong engagement of community health teams within community structures and the delivery of NCD prevention and management messages through community meetings with trusted health professionals or community members. There are gender differences in the experience of NCDs and women were generally more engaged with social mobilisation activities than men. In the context of COVID-19, traditional forms of social mobilisation were challenged, and new, virtual forms emerged. However, these new forms of engagement did not benefit all, especially those in hard-to-reach rural areas. In these contexts, specific traditional forms of mobilisation such as through radio (where possible) and trusted community leaders - became increasingly important. CONCLUSIONS New mechanisms of fostering social mobilisation include virtual connectors such as mobile phones, which enable mobilisation through platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter. However, traditional forms of social mobilisation hold value for those without access to such technology. Therefore, a combination of new and traditional mechanisms for social mobilisation hold potential for the future development of social mobilisation strategies in El Salvador and, as appropriate, in other fragile health contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizzie Caperon
- Research Unit on Health in Situations of Fragility, Institute for Global Health & Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Stella Arakelyan
- Research Unit on Health in Situations of Fragility, Institute for Global Health & Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Alastair Ager
- Research Unit on Health in Situations of Fragility, Institute for Global Health & Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK
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van der Wal R, Loutfi D, Hong QN, Vedel I, Cockcroft A, Johri M, Andersson N. HIV-sensitive social protection for vulnerable young women in East and Southern Africa: a systematic review. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25787. [PMID: 34473406 PMCID: PMC8412122 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Social protection programmes are considered HIV-sensitive when addressing risk, vulnerability or impact of HIV infection. Socio-economic interventions, like livelihood and employability programmes, address HIV vulnerabilities like poverty and gender inequality. We explored the HIV-sensitivity of socio-economic interventions for unemployed and out-of-school young women aged 15 to 30 years, in East and Southern Africa, a key population for HIV infection. METHODS We conducted a systematic review using a narrative synthesis method and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool for quality appraisal. Interventions of interest were work skills training, microfinance, and employment support. Outcomes of interest were socio-economic outcomes (income, assets, savings, skills, (self-) employment) and HIV-related outcomes (behavioural and biological). We searched published and grey literature (January 2005 to November 2019; English/French) in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and websites of relevant international organizations. RESULTS We screened 3870 titles and abstracts and 188 full-text papers to retain 18 papers, representing 12 projects. Projects offered different combinations of HIV-sensitive social protection programmes, complemented with mentors, safe space and training (HIV, reproductive health and gender training). All 12 projects offered work skills training to improve life and business skills. Six offered formal (n = 2) or informal (n = 5) livelihood training. Eleven projects offered microfinance, including microgrants (n = 7), microcredit (n = 6) and savings (n = 4). One project offered employment support in the form of apprenticeships. In general, microgrants, savings, business and life skills contributed improved socio-economic and HIV-related outcomes. Most livelihood training contributed positive socio-economic outcomes, but only two projects showed improved HIV-related outcomes. Microcredit contributed little to either outcome. Programmes were effective when (i) sensitive to beneficiaries' age, needs, interests and economic vulnerability; (ii) adapted to local implementation contexts; and (iii) included life skills. Programme delivery through mentorship and safe space increased social capital and may be critical to improve the HIV-sensitivity of socio-economic programmes. CONCLUSIONS A wide variety of livelihood and employability programmes were leveraged to achieve improved socio-economic and HIV-related outcomes among unemployed and out-of-school young women. To be HIV-sensitive, programmes should be designed around their interests, needs and vulnerability, adapted to local implementation contexts, and include life skills. Employment support received little attention in this literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran van der Wal
- Department of Family MedicineMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
| | - David Loutfi
- Department of Family MedicineMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
| | - Quan Nha Hong
- EPPI‐CentreUCL Social Research InstituteUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Isabelle Vedel
- Department of Family MedicineMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
| | - Anne Cockcroft
- Department of Family MedicineMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
- CIET TrustGaboroneBotswana
| | - Mira Johri
- Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM)MontrealQuebecCanada
- Département de gestiond’évaluationet de politique de santéÉcole de santé publique de l'Université de MontréalMontrealQuebecCanada
| | - Neil Andersson
- Department of Family MedicineMcGill UniversityMontrealQuebecCanada
- Centro de Investigación de Enfermedades TropicalesUniversidad Autónoma de GuerreroAcapulcoMexico
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Kutywayo A, Frade S, Gordon K, Mahuma T, Naidoo NP, Mullick S. Who’s got the power? Expressions of empowerment among in-school adolescents enrolled in the Girls Achieve Power (GAP Year) trial in three peri-urban settings of South Africa. Gates Open Res 2021. [DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13336.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Empowerment is when a person gains mastery of their life and environment. This paper describes three central elements of empowerment (agency, resources, and institutional structures) expressed by adolescents, discussing implications for strengthening adolescent sexual reproductive health, HIV, and violence prevention programming. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted (April 2017 – May 2018) as part of the GAP Year trial among grade eight learners (12 – 18 years) from 26 lowest quintile public high schools in Khayelitsha, Soweto and Thembisa townships, South Africa. Data were on empowerment experiences using a knowledge, attitudes, and practices survey. Descriptive and chi-square test statistics were employed, assessing the association between sociodemographic and domains of empowerment. Results: A total of 2383 adolescents in 26 schools completed the baseline survey: 63.1% female, mean age 13.7 years, 96.9% Black African. Agency: Males (4.04 vs 3.94, p=0.008) and those 15 – 18 years (4.10 vs 3.95, p=0.027) expressed stronger decision-making capacity. Females (3.18 vs 2.92, p<0.001) indicated a greater sense of collective action. Females (0.77 vs 0.72, p=0.008), those aged 12 -14 years (0.76 vs 0.71, p=0.027) and those with at least one parent/guardian employed (p=0.014) had stronger leadership confidence. Resources: Those 12-14 years expressed higher self-esteem (2.18 vs 2.08, p=0.017). Males (2.24 vs 1.87, p<0.001) and those who had at least one parent/guardian employed (p=0.047) had a higher perception of freedom from gender-based violence. Males showed greater mobility (2.89 vs 2.66, p=<0.001). Institutional structures: Coloured participants showed more positive norms than their Black counterparts (5.38 vs 2.12, p=0.005). Conclusions: Males expressed greater empowerment around decision-making, gender-based violence and mobility; females expressed greater collective action and leadership. Working across the ecological model, interventions addressing sex differences, targeting adolescents of all ages, and parental unemployment may strengthen expressions of empowerment, especially adolescents’ safety, mobility, aspirations, and future hopes.
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Shahmanesh M, Okesola N, Chimbindi N, Zuma T, Mdluli S, Mthiyane N, Adeagbo O, Dreyer J, Herbst C, McGrath N, Harling G, Sherr L, Seeley J. Thetha Nami: participatory development of a peer-navigator intervention to deliver biosocial HIV prevention for adolescents and youth in rural South Africa. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1393. [PMID: 34256725 PMCID: PMC8278686 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11399-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite effective biomedical tools, HIV remains the largest cause of morbidity/mortality in South Africa - especially among adolescents and young people. We used community-based participatory research (CBPR), informed by principles of social justice, to develop a peer-led biosocial intervention for HIV prevention in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). METHODS Between March 2018 and September 2019 we used CBPR to iteratively co-create and contextually adapt a biosocial peer-led intervention to support HIV prevention. Men and women aged 18-30 years were selected by community leaders of 21 intervention implementation areas (izigodi) and underwent 20 weeks of training as peer-navigators. We synthesised quantitative and qualitative data collected during a 2016-2018 study into 17 vignettes illustrating the local drivers of HIV. During three participatory intervention development workshops and community mapping sessions, the peer-navigators critically engaged with vignettes, brainstormed solutions and mapped the components to their own izigodi. The intervention components were plotted to a Theory of Change which, following a six-month pilot and process evaluation, the peer-navigators refined. The intervention will be evaluated in a randomised controlled trial ( NCT04532307 ). RESULTS Following written and oral assessments, 57 of the 108 initially selected participated in two workshops to discuss the vignettes and co-create the Thetha Nami (`talk to me'). The intervention included peer-led health promotion to improve self-efficacy and demand for HIV prevention, referrals to social and educational resources, and aaccessible youth-friendly clinical services to improve uptake of HIV prevention. During the pilot the peer-navigators approached 6871 young people, of whom 6141 (89%) accepted health promotion and 438 were linked to care. During semi-structured interviews peer-navigators described the appeal of providing sexual health information to peers of a similar age and background but wanted to provide more than just "onward referral". In the third participatory workshop 54 peer-navigators refined the Thetha Nami intervention to add three components: structured assessment tool to tailor health promotion and referrals, safe spaces and community advocacy to create an enabling environment, and peer-mentorship and navigation of resources to improve retention in HIV prevention. CONCLUSION Local youth were able to use evidence to develop a contextually adapted peer-led intervention to deliver biosocial HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Shahmanesh
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JB, UK.
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
| | | | - Natsayi Chimbindi
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - Thembelihle Zuma
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JB, UK
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Sakhile Mdluli
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | | | - Oluwafemi Adeagbo
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JB, UK
- University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Jaco Dreyer
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Carina Herbst
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Nuala McGrath
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Guy Harling
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JB, UK
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health & Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt) University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology & Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, Capper Street, London, WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Stewart R, Wright B, Smith L, Roberts S, Russell N. Gendered stereotypes and norms: A systematic review of interventions designed to shift attitudes and behaviour. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06660. [PMID: 33912699 PMCID: PMC8066375 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In the face of ongoing attempts to achieve gender equality, there is increasing focus on the need to address outdated and detrimental gendered stereotypes and norms, to support societal and cultural change through individual attitudinal and behaviour change. This article systematically reviews interventions aiming to address gendered stereotypes and norms across several outcomes of gender inequality such as violence against women and sexual and reproductive health, to draw out common theory and practice and identify success factors. Three databases were searched; ProQuest Central, PsycINFO and Web of Science. Articles were included if they used established public health interventions types (direct participation programs, community mobilisation or strengthening, organisational or workforce development, communications, social marketing and social media, advocacy, legislative or policy reform) to shift attitudes and/or behaviour in relation to rigid gender stereotypes and norms. A total of 71 studies were included addressing norms and/or stereotypes across a range of intervention types and gender inequality outcomes, 55 of which reported statistically significant or mixed outcomes. The implicit theory of change in most studies was to change participants' attitudes by increasing their knowledge/awareness of gendered stereotypes or norms. Five additional strategies were identified that appear to strengthen intervention impact; peer engagement, addressing multiple levels of the ecological framework, developing agents of change, modelling/role models and co-design of interventions with participants or target populations. Consideration of cohort sex, length of intervention (multi-session vs single-session) and need for follow up data collection were all identified as factors influencing success. When it comes to engaging men and boys in particular, interventions with greater success include interactive learning, co-design and peer leadership. Several recommendations are made for program design, including that practitioners need to be cognisant of breaking down stereotypes amongst men (not just between genders) and the avoidance of reinforcing outdated stereotypes and norms inadvertently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Stewart
- BehaviourWorks Australia, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Breanna Wright
- BehaviourWorks Australia, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liam Smith
- BehaviourWorks Australia, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Roberts
- School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natalie Russell
- Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Goodman ML, Elliott AJ, Gitari S, Keiser P, Raimer-Goodman L, Seidel SE. Come together to promote health: case study and theoretical perspectives from a Kenyan community-based program. Health Promot Int 2021; 36:1765-1774. [PMID: 33604649 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daab018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past four decades, group-based microfinance programs have spread rapidly throughout south Asia, sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. Recent evaluations of the programs have identified social capital as a common byproduct of frequent association by members, increasing trust, belonging and normative influence. Concurrently, social capital is increasingly recognized as an important health determinant. We present an overview of a program intervention operating in Kenya that utilizes a microfinance approach to produce social capital, and seeks to leverage that social capital to promote health at three levels-the village, group, and individual. A theory of change is presented for each of these three levels, demonstrating conceptually and with program examples how social capital can be applied to promote health. Related social theories and approaches, further research and program directions are given for each of the three levels. We identify potential to improve a broad range of health outcomes through this innovative model, which requires engagement with health promotion researchers and planners in low- and middle-income countries for further refinement and validation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aleisha J Elliott
- Sodzo Kenya, Maua, Meru County, Kenya.,University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Philip Keiser
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77553, USA
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Robinson RS, Zayed H. Understanding the capacity of community-based groups to mobilise and engage in social action for health: Results from Avahan. Glob Public Health 2020; 16:1590-1603. [PMID: 33106086 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1837912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Community mobilisation improves outcomes from HIV to maternal and child health. Yet, little health research has explored why some community groups are better able to mobilise than others. We address this gap by considering the case of Avahan, the India AIDS Initiative, which sought to foster community mobilisation, including the creation of community-based groups serving men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSWs), and injection drug users (IDUs). Using quantitative and qualitative data collected from 58 community-based groups from 2009-2012 across six Indian states, we analyse variation in groups' action on behalf of their members. Based on a mixed effects logistic regression, we find that older groups and those with bank accounts, crisis committees, or strategic relationships were most likely to take action on behalf of members by demanding rights or confronting gatekeepers and opinion leaders. Analysis of qualitative data reveals the types of action organisations took on behalf of members (mediation, removal of community members from harm, and advocacy), but also that sometimes organisations refused to take action, or community members declined their assistance. These findings indicate that organisations formalising, creating structures for social action, and building networks are important strategies to foster community mobilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hatem Zayed
- School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC, USA
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Hershow RB, Ha TV, Sripaipan T, Latkin C, Hutton HE, Chander G, Bui Q, Nguyen VQ, Frangakis C, Go VF. Perpetration of Intimate Partner Violence Among Men Living with HIV in Northern Vietnam. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:2555-2571. [PMID: 32078077 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02813-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
We examined the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration and characteristics of HIV-infected male perpetrators. The cross-sectional study was conducted in Vietnam with male antiretroviral treatment clients (N = 1099; mean age = 40.2 years). Bivariable associations were tested between psychological or physical/sexual IPV perpetration in the last 12 months and sociodemographic, psychosocial, and sexual behavioral factors using prevalence ratios. Factors significant at p < 0.10 were entered in multivariable models for each IPV outcome using a modified Poisson approach. Results showed 15.6% (N = 171/1099) reported perpetrating psychological IPV and 7.6% (N = 84/1099) perpetrating physical/sexual IPV in the last 12 months. HIV risk behaviors, including hazardous drinking and multiple sexual partners, having witnessed interparental violence as a child, and depressive symptoms were associated with perpetrating IPV. HIV interventions targeting HIV-infected men in Vietnam should intervene on IPV perpetration by addressing the co-occurring factors of sexual risk, depression, alcohol use, and child maltreatment that are correlated with IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca B Hershow
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | | | - Teerada Sripaipan
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Heidi E Hutton
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Geetanjali Chander
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Constantine Frangakis
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Gottert A, Pulerwitz J, Haberland N, Mathebula R, Rebombo D, Spielman K, West R, Julien A, Twine R, Peacock D, Kang Dufour MS, Gómez-Olivé FX, Pettifor A, Lippman SA, Kahn K. Gaining traction: Promising shifts in gender norms and intimate partner violence in the context of a community-based HIV prevention trial in South Africa. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237084. [PMID: 32817692 PMCID: PMC7446856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background HIV and violence prevention programs increasingly seek to transform gender norms among participants, yet how to do so at the community level, and subsequent pathways to behavior change, remain poorly understood. We assessed shifts in endorsement of equitable gender norms, and intimate partner violence (IPV), during the three-year community-based trial of Tsima, an HIV ‘treatment as prevention’ intervention in rural South Africa. Methods Cross-sectional household surveys were conducted with men and women ages 18–49 years, in 8 intervention and 7 control communities, at 2014-baseline (n = 1,149) and 2018-endline (n = 1,189). Endorsement of equitable gender norms was measured by the GEM Scale. Intent-to-treat analyses assessed intervention effects and change over time. Qualitative research with 59 community members and 38 staff examined the change process. Results Nearly two-thirds of men and half of women in intervention communities had heard of the intervention/seen the logo; half of these had attended a two-day workshop. Regression analyses showed a 15% improvement in GEM Scale score over time, irrespective of the intervention, among men (p<0.001) and women (p<0.001). Younger women (ages 18–29) had a decreased odds of reporting IPV in intervention vs. control communities (aOR 0.53; p<0.05). Qualitative data suggest that gender norms shifts may be linked to increased media access (via satellite TV/smartphones) and consequent exposure to serial dramas modeling equitable relationships and negatively portraying violence. Tsima’s couple communication/conflict resolution skills-building activities, eagerly received by intervention participants, appear to have further supported IPV reductions. Conclusions There was a population-level shift towards greater endorsement of equitable gender norms between 2014–2018, potentially linked with rapid escalation in media access. There was also an intervention effect on reported IPV among young women, likely owing to improved couple communication. Societal-level gender norm shifts may create enabling environments for interventions to find new traction for violence and HIV-related behavior change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Gottert
- Population Council/Project SOAR, Washington, D.C., United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Julie Pulerwitz
- Population Council/Project SOAR, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Nicole Haberland
- Population Council/Project SOAR, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | | | - Dumisani Rebombo
- Sonke Gender Justice, Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, South Africa
- Independent Consultant, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathryn Spielman
- Population Council/Project SOAR, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Rebecca West
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Aimée Julien
- Department of Epideiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Dean Peacock
- Sonke Gender Justice, Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, South Africa
- Promundo, Washington, D.C., United States of America
- University of Cape Town School of Public Health, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mi-Suk Kang Dufour
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - F. Xavier Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- Department of Epideiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Gupta M, Rahman A, Dutta NC, Nambiar D, Ivers R, Jagnoor J. Opportunities for gender transformative approaches in a community-based drowning reduction program in Bangladesh. Int J Equity Health 2020; 19:108. [PMID: 32611417 PMCID: PMC7329458 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-020-01226-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Community-based programs in rural low-and middle-income country settings are well-placed to conduct gender transformative activities that aid program sustainability and catalyse wider social change, such as reducing gender inequities that in turn improve health outcomes. The Anchal program is a drowning prevention intervention for children aged 1–5 years old in rural Bangladesh. It provides community crèche-based supervision delivered by local trained paid-female volunteers. We aimed to identify the influence of the Anchal program on gender norms and behaviours in the community context, and the effects these had on program delivery and men and women’s outcomes. Methods Qualitative in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and observations were conducted with program beneficiaries and providers. Gender outcomes were analysed using FHI 360’s Gender Integration Framework. Results The Anchal program was found to be a gender accommodating program as it catered for communities’ gender-based roles and constraints but did not actively seek to change underlying beliefs, perceptions and norms that led to these. The program in some cases enhanced the independence and status of female community staff. This changed perceptions of communities towards acceptable levels of physical mobility and community involvement for women. Conversely, gender affected program delivery by reducing the ability of female supervisory staff to engage with male community leaders. The double burden of wage and household labour carried by local female staff also limited performance and progression. Gender-based constraints on staff performance, attrition and community engagement affected efficiency of program delivery and sustainability. Conclusions The Anchal program both adapted to and shaped community gender norms and roles. The program has well-established relationships in the community and can be leveraged to implement gender transformative activities to improve gender-based equity. Health programs can broaden their impacts and target social determinants of health like gender equity to increase program sustainability and promote equitable health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gupta
- The George Institute for Global Health Australia, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - A Rahman
- Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, House B 162, Road 23, New DOHS, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1206, Bangladesh
| | - N C Dutta
- Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, House B 162, Road 23, New DOHS, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1206, Bangladesh
| | - D Nambiar
- The George Institute for Global Health India, 311-312, Third Floor, Elegance Tower, Plot No. 8, Jasola District Centre, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - R Ivers
- School of Public Health and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Australia, Samuels Building, Botany Street, Kensington, 2052, Australia
| | - J Jagnoor
- The George Institute for Global Health India, 311-312, Third Floor, Elegance Tower, Plot No. 8, Jasola District Centre, New Delhi, 110025, India.
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Identifying Opportunities for Collaboration Across the Social Sciences to Reach the 10-10-10: A Multilevel Approach. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 82 Suppl 2:S118-S123. [PMID: 31658198 PMCID: PMC6820711 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The national and global strategy to combat HIV, often referred to as the "90-90-90," aims to diagnose 90% of people living with HIV, get 90% of those diagnosed onto antiretroviral treatment (ART), and achieve viral suppression in 90% of those on ART. The remaining 10-10-10 who will be undiagnosed, not on ART, or not virally suppressed, include vulnerable persons and populations most affected by social determinants of health. Given their foci on the social determinants of health at the individual, social, and structural levels, social scientists are in a prime position to help reach the 10-10-10. A potentially effective way for social scientists to achieve this goal is to examine the issues that affect the 10-10-10 using a multilevel framework, to understand at what levels their own approaches fit within such a multilevel framework, and to seek intentional collaborations with other social scientists who may work at different levels but whose approaches may complement their own within multilevel collaborations. APPROACH The present article describes how a multilevel framework can guide collaboration across disciplines within the social sciences toward the common goal of reaching the 10-10-10. CONCLUSIONS Within a multilevel framework, social scientists can work collaboratively to address the needs of individuals among the 10-10-10 within the social and structural contexts (eg, social norms, stigma, poverty, and barriers to care) that affect their health. Such an approach draws on the unique strengths and approaches of different social-science disciplines while also building capacity for individuals most affected by social determinants of health.
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Christofides NJ, Hatcher AM, Rebombo D, McBride RS, Munshi S, Pino A, Abdelatif N, Peacock D, Levin J, Jewkes RK. Effectiveness of a multi-level intervention to reduce men's perpetration of intimate partner violence: a cluster randomised controlled trial. Trials 2020; 21:359. [PMID: 32334615 PMCID: PMC7183134 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-4185-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Men’s perpetration of intimate partner violence (IPV) limits gains in health and wellbeing for populations globally. Largely informal, rapidly expanding peri-urban settlements, with limited basic services such as electricity, have high prevalence rates of IPV. Evidence on how to reduce men’s perpetration, change social norms and patriarchal attitudes within these settings is limited. Our cluster randomised controlled trial aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Sonke CHANGE intervention in reducing use of sexual and/or physical IPV and severity of perpetration by men aged 18–40 years over 2 years. Methodology The theory-based intervention delivered activities to bolster community action, including door-to-door discussions, workshops, drawing on the CHANGE curriculum, and deploying community action teams over 18 months. In 2016 and 2018, we collected data from a cohort of men, recruited from 18 clusters; nine were randomised to receive the intervention, while the nine control clusters received no intervention. A self-administered questionnaire, using audio-computer assisted software, asked about sociodemographics, gender attitudes, mental health, and the use and severity of IPV. We conducted an intention-to-treat analysis at the cluster level comparing the expected risk to observed risk of using IPV while controlling for baseline characteristics. A secondary analysis used latent classes (LCA) of men to see whether there were differential effects of the intervention for subgroups of men. Results Of 2406 men recruited, 1458 (63%) were followed to 2 years. Overall, we saw a reduction in men’s reports of physical, sexual and severe IPV from baseline to endpoint (40.2% to 25.4%, 31.8% to 15.8%, and 33.4% to 18.2%, respectively). Intention-to-treat analysis showed no measurable differences between intervention and control clusters for primary IPV outcomes. Difference in the cluster-level proportion of physical IPV perpetration was 0.002 (95% confidence interval [CI] − 0.07 to 0.08). Similarly, differences between arms for sexual IPV was 0.01 (95% CI − 0.04 to 0.06), while severe IPV followed a similar pattern (Diff = 0.01; 95% CI − 0.05 to 0.07). A secondary analysis using LCA suggests that among the men living in intervention communities, there was a greater reduction in IPV among less violent and more law abiding men than among more highly violent men, although the differences did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion The intervention, when implemented in a peri-urban settlement, had limited effect in reducing IPV perpetrated by male residents. Further analysis showed it was unable to transform entrenched gender attitudes and use of IPV by those men who use the most violence, but the intervention showed promise for men who use violence less. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02823288. Registered on 30 June 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J Christofides
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.
| | - Abigail M Hatcher
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.,Division of HIV, Infectious Disease, and Global Medicine, University of California, SanFrancisco, USA
| | - Dumisani Rebombo
- Sonke Gender Justice, Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ruari-Santiago McBride
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Shehnaz Munshi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Angelica Pino
- Sonke Gender Justice, Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nada Abdelatif
- South African Medical Research Council, 1 Soutpansberg Road, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Dean Peacock
- Sonke Gender Justice, Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jonathan Levin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Rachel K Jewkes
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council, 1 Soutpansberg Road, Pretoria, South Africa
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Chatterji S, Stern E, Dunkle K, Heise L. Community activism as a strategy to reduce intimate partner violence (IPV) in rural Rwanda: Results of a community randomised trial. J Glob Health 2020; 10:010406. [PMID: 32257154 PMCID: PMC7125418 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.10.010406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is considerable interest in community organising and activism as a strategy to shift patriarchal gender norms, attitudes and beliefs and thus reduce intimate partner violence (IPV). Yet there is limited insight into how activism actually translates into reduced violence, including how aspects of programme implementation or cultural context may affect impact. This study evaluates the community activism/mobilisation portion of Indashyikirwa, a multi-component, IPV prevention programme implemented in rural Rwanda. The activism part of Indashyikirwa was based on SASA!, a promising program model from Uganda with demonstrated effectiveness. Methods We implemented two separate cross-sectional surveys as part of a larger community randomised controlled trial to assess the impact of the community portion of Indashyikirwa on preventing physical and/or sexual IPV and other secondary outcomes at a community level. The survey consisted of a random household-based sample of 1400 women and 1400 men at both waves. Surveys were conducted before community-level activities commenced and were repeated 24 months later with a new cross-sectional sample. Longitudinal, qualitative data were collected as part of an embedded process evaluation. Results There was no evidence of an intervention effect at a community level on any of the trial's primary or secondary outcomes, most notably women's experience of physical and/or sexual IPV from a current male partner in the past 12 months (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.25; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.92-1.70, P = 0.16), or men's perpetration of male-to-female physical and/or sexual IPV (aOR = 1.02; 95% CI = 0.72-1.45, P = 0.89). Process evaluation data suggest that delays due to challenges in adapting and implementing SASA!-style activites in rural Rwanda may account for the trial's failure to measure an effect. Additionally, the intervention strategy of informal activism was not well suited to the Rwandan context and required considerable modification. Conclusions Failure to reduce violence when implementing an adaptation of SASA! in rural Rwanda highlights the importance of allowing sufficient time for adapting evidence-based programming (EBP) to ensure cultural appropriateness and fidelity. This evaluation held little chance of demonstrating impact since the project timeline forced endline evaluation only months after certain elements of the programme became operational. Donors must anticipate longer time horizons (5 to 7 years) when contemplating evaluations of novel or newly-adapted programmess for reducing IPV at a population level. These findings also reinforce the value of including embedded process evaluations when investing in rigorous trials of complex phenomena such as community activism. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03477877.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangeeta Chatterji
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Erin Stern
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Af.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK (affiliation at start of project)
| | - Kristin Dunkle
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Af
| | - Lori Heise
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK (affiliation at start of project)
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Treves-Kagan S, Maman S, Khoza N, MacPhail C, Peacock D, Twine R, Kahn K, Lippman SA, Pettifor A. Fostering gender equality and alternatives to violence: perspectives on a gender-transformative community mobilisation programme in rural South Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2020; 22:127-144. [PMID: 31429663 PMCID: PMC7905832 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2019.1650397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Gender-based violence and violence against children are significant problems in South Africa. Community mobilisation and gender-transformative programming are promising approaches to address and reduce violence. A quantitative evaluation of One Man Can, a gender-transformative community mobilisation programme in South Africa, found mixed results in increasing gender-equitable behaviours and reducing violence. To better understand these findings, we analyse longitudinal qualitative data from community mobilisers, community members and community action teams, exploring individual and community-level factors that facilitate and hinder change. Interviews and focus groups were transcribed and analysed. Participants self-reported changes in their gender-equitable attitudes and use of violence as a result of participation in the programme, although some participants also reported opposition to shifting to a more gender-equitable culture. Facilitators to change included the internalisation of gender-transformative messaging and supportive social networks, which was buoyed by a shared vocabulary in their community generated by One Man Can. Because the programme targeted a critical mass of community members with gender-transformative programming, mobilisers and community action teams were held accountable by community members to model non-violent behaviour. Results reinforce the importance of addressing facilitators and barriers to change at both individual and community levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Treves-Kagan
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Suzanne Maman
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Nomhle Khoza
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Catherine MacPhail
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Dean Peacock
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Cape Town School of Public Health, Cape Town, South Africa
- Sonke Gender Justice, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Hannaford A, Lim J, Moll AP, Khoza B, Shenoi SV. 'PrEP should be for men only': Young heterosexual men's views on PrEP in rural South Africa. Glob Public Health 2020; 15:1337-1348. [PMID: 32207661 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1744680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gaps persist in HIV testing, treatment, and prevention services for men, leading to higher attributable mortality compared to women. We sought to characterise HIV prevention knowledge, risk behaviours, and interest in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among young men in rural South Africa. METHODS We conducted interviews with HIV-negative heterosexual men which were thematically analysed to identify key themes. RESULTS Among 31 participants, median age was 26 (IQR23-31), 77% were unemployed, 52% reported previous STI, 84% reported casual sexual partners. Men acknowledged inconsistent condom use with multiple partners, reporting high-risk sexual behaviour despite recognised risk. Mistrust between partners was common. Respondents reported willingness to take PrEP to protect themselves and their partner, though anticipated stigma and structural barriers. Men worried that if their female partner had PrEP, she would become sexually active with others. CONCLUSIONS In rural South Africa, young heterosexual men acknowledged high HIV-risk behaviour, expressed concern about acquiring HIV, and recognised the value of PrEP. Men were often not supportive of their female partners taking PrEP. Implementing HIV prevention services needs to incorporate young men's perspectives and may require gender-specific interventions, including addressing stigma, differentiated service delivery models such as community-based services or adapting facility services to target men.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jamie Lim
- Boston Medical Center, Boston.,Boston Children's Hospital, Boston
| | - Anthony P Moll
- Church of Scotland Hospital, Tugela Ferry, South Africa.,Philanjalo NGO, Tugela Ferry, South Africa
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Hatcher AM, McBride RS, Rebombo D, Munshi S, Khumalo M, Christofides N. Process evaluation of a community mobilization intervention for preventing men's partner violence use in peri-urban South Africa. EVALUATION AND PROGRAM PLANNING 2020; 78:101727. [PMID: 31639542 PMCID: PMC7264430 DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2019.101727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is experienced by one-third of women globally, yet few programs attempt to shift men's IPV perpetration. Community mobilization is a potential strategy for reducing men's IPV perpetration, but this has rarely been examined globally. We conducted a mixed-methods process evaluation alongside a trial testing community mobilization in peri-urban South Africa. We used in-depth interviews (n=114), participant observation (160 h), and monitoring and evaluation data to assess program delivery. Qualitative data (verbatim transcripts and observation notes) were managed in Dedoose using thematic coding and quantitative data were descriptively analyzed using Stata13. We learned that outreach elements of community mobilization were implemented with high fidelity, but that critical reflection and local advocacy were difficult to achieve. The context of a peri-urban settlement (characterized by poor infrastructure, migrancy, low education, social marginalization, and high levels of violence) severely limited intervention delivery, as did lack of institutional support for staff and activist volunteers. That community mobilization was poorly implemented may explain null trial findings; in the larger trial, the intervention failed to measurably reduce men's IPV perpetration. Designing community mobilization for resource-constrained settings may require additional financial, infrastructural, organizational, or political support to effectively engage community members and reduce IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail M Hatcher
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Unviersity of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, United States.
| | - Ruari-Santiago McBride
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Unviersity of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Shehnaz Munshi
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Unviersity of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Nicola Christofides
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Unviersity of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Zwakala Ndoda: a cluster and individually randomized trial aimed at improving testing, linkage, and adherence to treatment for hard-to reach men in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Trials 2019; 20:798. [PMID: 31888701 PMCID: PMC6937627 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-019-3908-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men in sub-Saharan Africa are less likely than women to get tested for HIV, less likely to present for treatment, less likely to be maintained in treatment, more likely to have detectable viral load, more likely to transmit HIV with unprotected intercourse, and more likely to progress to AIDS and die sooner from HIV. The ultimate objective of this research is to provide evidence-based strategies to improve HIV testing and treatment of HIV-infected men. METHODS This study is being conducted in the Greater Edendale Area and Vulindlela region in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It is a two-stage design of a cluster-randomized trial and an individual randomized trial to test how structural and individual-level interventions address the demand-side factors that affect HIV testing and treatment for hard-to reach, high-risk men. It combines male-focused mobilization, community-based mobile HIV testing services, and a small incentive to determine if the strategies singly and in combination can result in more men diagnosed with HIV, and more men linked to and maintained in care with undetectable viral load. DISCUSSION A priority for sub-Sahara Africa is developing and evaluating novel and cost-effective strategies for identifying hard-to-reach groups such as men, linking them to HIV testing and care services, and maintaining them in care to the point of viral suppression. We propose a combination prevention intervention that addresses men's individual, interpersonal, and structural barriers to testing and care. This includes male-led mobilization to encourage uptake of testing and treatment, male-focused testing venues, male-only counselors, developing counseling models that are flexible and responsive to men, and strategies for adhering to clinic visits without missing work and navigating the healthcare system. By thoughtfully combining male-focused mobilization, and testing and addressing some of the barriers to male engagement with health facilities, this study hopes to add to the growing evidence base about how to reach, test, link, and maintain a hard-to-reach group such as men in HIV treatment and care services. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03794245. Registered on 4 January 2019.
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MacPhail C, Khoza N, Treves-Kagan S, Selin A, Gómez-Olivé X, Peacock D, Rebombo D, Twine R, Maman S, Kahn K, DeLong SM, Hill LM, Lippman SA, Pettifor A. Process elements contributing to community mobilization for HIV risk reduction and gender equality in rural South Africa. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0225694. [PMID: 31790483 PMCID: PMC6886772 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Community mobilization has been recognized as a critical enabler for HIV prevention and is employed for challenging gender inequalities. We worked together with community partners to implement the ‘One Man Can’ intervention in rural Mpumalanga, South Africa to promote gender equality and HIV risk reduction. During the intervention, we conducted longitudinal qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with community mobilizers (n = 26), volunteer community action team members (n = 22) and community members (n = 52) to explore their experience of being part of the intervention and their experiences of change associated with the intervention. The objective of the study was to examine processes of change in community mobilization for gender equity and HIV prevention. Our analysis showed that over time, participants referred to three key elements of their engagement with the intervention: developing respect for others; inter-personal communication; and empathy. These elements were viewed as assisting them in adopting a ‘better life’ and associated with behaviour change in the intervention’s main focus areas of promoting gender equality and HIV risk reduction behaviours. We discuss how these concepts relate to the essential domains contained within our theoretical framework of community mobilization—specifically critical consciousness, shared concerns and social cohesion -, as demonstrated in this community. We interpret the focus on these key elements as significant indicators of communities engaging with the community mobilization process and initiating movement towards structural changes for HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine MacPhail
- School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Nomhle Khoza
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- STRIVE Research Programme Consortium, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Treves-Kagan
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Amanda Selin
- Carolina Population Centre, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Xavier Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH Network, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Suzanne Maman
- Department of Health Behaviour, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- INDEPTH Network, Accra, Ghana
- Epidemiology and Global Health Unit, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Stephanie M. DeLong
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Lauren M. Hill
- Department of Health Behaviour, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Carolina Population Centre, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
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Wesson P, Lippman SA, Neilands TB, Twine R, Ahern J, Gómez-Olivé FX, Peacock D, MacPhail C, Kahn K, Pettifor A. Multilevel Gender-Equitable Norms and Risk of HIV and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Acquisition Among Young South African Women: A Longitudinal Analysis of the HIV Prevention Trials Network 068 Cohort. J Adolesc Health 2019; 65:730-737. [PMID: 31543406 PMCID: PMC6874745 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2019.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in South Africa experience a disproportionately high burden of HIV acquisition. National HIV prevalence among AGYW increases nearly three-fold during the transition from late teenage years to their early twenties. We investigated whether beliefs about gender equity influence subsequent HIV acquisition among AGYW in South Africa. METHODS We used data from the HIV Prevention Trials Network 068, a longitudinal conditional cash transfer study of AGYW in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Gender-equitable beliefs were measured at the level of the individual and summarized among school peers and adults in the community using the Gender Equitable Men's Scale (GEMS). Generalized estimating equation regression was used to assess the association between individual, peer and community GEMS and HIV incidence, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) incidence, and other HIV risk factors while accounting for repeated observations and clustering. RESULTS A total of 2,533 AGYW were followed up for up to 5 years. Adjusting for potential confounders, a unit increase in peer GEMS scores (i.e. more equitable) were significantly protective against subsequent HIV acquisition (risk difference = -.019; 95% confidence interval: -.032, -.006) and subsequent HSV-2 acquisition (risk difference = -.020; 95% confidence interval: -.040, -.000). Low individual and community GEMS scores were associated with multiple HIV risk factors but not with HIV or HSV-2 incidence directly. CONCLUSION School-level peer endorsement of gender equity may be protective against HIV and HSV-2 incidence among AGYW. Interventions that increase gender equity at the individual level and at the level of the social environment, particularly among school peers, have the potential for protective effects on the health of AGYW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Wesson
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco; 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, USA,MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco; 550 16th St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Rhian Twine
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Ahern
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley; Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - F. Xavier Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Dean Peacock
- Sonke Gender Justice, Cape Town, South Africa,School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Catherine MacPhail
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa,Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
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