51
|
Morton T, Chege W, Swann E, Senn TE, Cleland N, Renzullo PO, Stirratt MJ. Advancing long-acting and extended delivery HIV prevention and treatment regimens through behavioural science: NIH workshop directions. AIDS 2021; 35:1313-1317. [PMID: 33710013 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tia Morton
- Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID)
| | - Wairimu Chege
- Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID)
| | - Edith Swann
- Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID)
| | - Theresa E Senn
- Division of AIDS Research, National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Naana Cleland
- Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID)
| | - Philip O Renzullo
- Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID)
| | - Michael J Stirratt
- Division of AIDS Research, National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Friedland BA, Mathur S, Haddad LB. The Promise of the Dual Prevention Pill: A Framework for Development and Introduction. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3. [PMID: 34318291 PMCID: PMC8312733 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.682689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Women of reproductive age need multipurpose prevention technology (MPT) products to address two overlapping health risks: unintended pregnancy and HIV. Currently, condoms are the only available MPT, however male condoms are not within the control of a woman, and the use of female condoms has been limited by low acceptability and cost. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective for HIV prevention, yet uptake and adherence among women have been low to date. Women globally need more options for HIV and pregnancy prevention. Several MPTs for simultaneous HIV and pregnancy prevention are in various stages of development and clinical testing, although most are many years away from market launch. A dual prevention pill (DPP), a daily oral pill combining oral contraceptives and PrEP, both of which are licensed, approved products in many low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), is likely to be the fastest route to getting an MPT product into the hands of women. The DPP is one option that could enhance method choice, particularly for women who are already using oral contraceptives. By leveraging the oral contraceptive market and reaching women currently using condoms or with an unmet need for contraception, the DPP has the potential to increase the uptake of PrEP. The successful rollout of the DPP will require careful consideration of user-, provider-, and product-centered factors during product development and introduction. Early attention to these interrelated factors can help ensure that the DPP has the ideal characteristics for maximum product acceptability, that effective and quality services are designed and implemented, and that users can make informed choices, demand the product, and use it effectively. The proposed framework outlines key considerations for the effective development and introduction of the DPP, which could also facilitate integration models for future MPTs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Friedland
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sanyukta Mathur
- Population Council, HIV and AIDS Program, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Lisa B Haddad
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
53
|
Lane J, Brezak A, Patel P, Verani AR, Benech I, Katz A. Policy considerations for scaling up access to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis for adolescent girls and young women: Examples from Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Int J Health Plann Manage 2021; 36:1789-1808. [PMID: 34159630 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3252] [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] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (aged 15-24 years; AGYW) continue to carry a disproportionate burden of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) helps reduce the risk of acquiring HIV for persons at substantial risk, including AGYW. As countries plan for the rollout of PrEP across sub-Saharan Africa, PrEP policies and programs could address the unique needs of AGYW. The purpose of this analysis was to identify policy considerations to improve AGYW access to PrEP. After reviewing the literature, we identified 13 policy considerations that policymakers and stakeholders could evaluate when developing or reviewing PrEP-related policies. We sorted these considerations into five categories, which together comprise an AGYW Access to PrEP Framework: AGYW-friendly delivery systems, clinical eligibility and adherence support, legal barriers and facilitators, affordability, and community and AGYW outreach. We also reviewed policies in three countries (Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda) to explore how PrEP-related policies addressed these considerations. Some of these policies addressed some of the 13 policy considerations, but none of the policies directly addressed the unique needs of AGYW for accessing PrEP. To improve access to PrEP for AGYW, country policies could include specific components that address these 13 considerations. To reach AGYW effectively, each country could use the 13 considerations we have identified to analyze current policies to identify existing programmatic barriers to AGYW accessing HIV services and address these barriers in PrEP-related policies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Lane
- University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Audrey Brezak
- University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Pragna Patel
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Andre R Verani
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Irene Benech
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Aaron Katz
- University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
54
|
Velloza J, Hosek S, Donnell D, Anderson PL, Chirenje M, Mgodi N, Bekker L, Delany‐Moretlwe S, Celum C. Assessing longitudinal patterns of depressive symptoms and the influence of symptom trajectories on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis adherence among adolescent girls in the HPTN 082 randomized controlled trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24 Suppl 2:e25731. [PMID: 34164929 PMCID: PMC8222844 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION African adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) eligible for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) experience high levels of depressive symptoms. Depression can reduce PrEP adherence among adults, although analyses have considered depression as a time-varying exposure rather than modelling distinct patterns of symptoms. The association between depressive symptoms and PrEP adherence has not been explored for AGYW. To address these gaps, we sought to understand depressive symptom trajectories among African AGYW initiating PrEP and the impact of time-varying depressive symptoms and symptom trajectories on PrEP adherence. METHODS HPTN 082 was an open-label PrEP study among AGYW (ages 16 to 24) in Zimbabwe and South Africa from 2016 to 2018. Depressive symptoms were measured at enrolment and Weeks 13, 26 and 52, using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies scale; a score ≥10 is indicative of elevated depressive symptoms. PrEP adherence was defined as any detectable tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) levels. Group-based trajectory modelling was used to model longitudinal patterns of depressive symptoms. We assessed psychosocial and behavioural predictors of depressive symptom trajectory membership (e.g. PrEP stigma, intimate partner violence [IPV], sexual behaviour). We modelled associations between (1) group trajectory membership and PrEP adherence at Week 52 and (2) time-varying depressive symptoms and PrEP adherence through follow-up. RESULTS At enrolment, 179 (41.9%) participants had elevated depressive symptoms. Group-based trajectory models revealed persistent elevated depressive symptoms in 48.5%, declining symptoms in 9.4% and no consistent or mild depressive symptoms in 43.3%. AGYW who engaged in transactional sex, reported IPV, or had traumatic stress symptoms were more likely to be assigned to the persistent elevated symptom group compared with the consistent no/mild symptom group (Wald test p-value all <0.01). Participants assigned to the persistent elevated depressive symptom trajectory had a significantly lower risk of detectable TFV-DP at Week 52 than those in the no/mild symptom trajectory (adjusted prevalence ratio = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.80 to 0.98). Elevated depressive symptoms were significantly inversely associated with PrEP use throughout follow-up (adjusted relative risk = 0.73; 95% CI = 0.53 to 0.99). CONCLUSIONS Persistent depressive symptoms were common among African AGYW seeking PrEP. Integration of depressive symptom screening and treatment into PrEP programmes may improve PrEP effectiveness among African women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sybil Hosek
- Stroger Hospital of Cook CountyDepartment of PsychiatryChicagoILUSA
| | - Deborah Donnell
- University of WashingtonDepartment of Global HealthSeattleWAUSA
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease DivisionFred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattleWAUSA
| | - Peter L Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraCOUSA
| | - Mike Chirenje
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research CentreHarareZimbabwe
| | - Nyaradzo Mgodi
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research CentreHarareZimbabwe
| | - Linda‐Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV CentreUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Sinead Delany‐Moretlwe
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute (Wits RHI)Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Connie Celum
- University of WashingtonDepartment of Global HealthSeattleWAUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | | |
Collapse
|
55
|
Zissette S, Tolley EE, Martinez A, Hanif H, Gill K, Mugo N, Myers L, Casmir E, Duyver M, Ngure K, Doncel GF. Adaptation and validation of simple tools to screen and monitor for oral PrEP adherence. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251823. [PMID: 34043657 PMCID: PMC8158999 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral, vaginal and other pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) products for HIV prevention are in various stages of development. Low adherence poses a serious challenge to successful evaluation in trials. In a previous study, we developed tools to screen for general adherence and specifically monitor intravaginal ring adherence within the context of HIV prevention clinical trials. This study aimed to further validate the screening tool and to adapt and provide initial psychometric validation for an oral pill monitoring tool. MATERIALS AND METHODS We administered a cross-sectional survey between June and October 2018 at a trial site located near Cape Town, South Africa, and another in Thika, Kenya, with 193 women who had experience using daily oral pills. We fit confirmatory factor analysis models on the screening tool items to assess our previously-hypothesized subscale structure. We conducted an exploratory factor analysis of oral PrEP monitoring items to determine the underlying subscale structure. We then assessed the construct validity of each tool by comparing subscales against each other within the current sample and against our original sample, from a study conducted in four sites in South Africa, including Cape Town. RESULTS The screening tool structure showed moderate evidence of construct validity. As a whole, the tool performed in a similar way to the original sample. The monitoring tool items, which were revised to assess perceptions about and experiences using daily oral PrEP, factored into five subscales that showed moderate to good reliability. Four of the five subscales had a similar structure overall to the vaginal ring monitoring tool from which they were adapted. CONCLUSIONS Accurate measurement of HIV-prevention product adherence is of critical importance to the assessment of product efficacy and safety in clinical trials, and the support of safe and effective product use in non-trial settings. In this study, we provide further validation for these measures, demonstrating the screening tool's utility in additional populations and adapting the monitoring tool's utility for different HIV-prevention products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seth Zissette
- FHI 360, Behavioral, Epidemiological, Clinical Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- University of Notre Dame, Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth E. Tolley
- FHI 360, Behavioral, Epidemiological, Clinical Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Andres Martinez
- FHI 360, Behavioral, Epidemiological, Clinical Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Homaira Hanif
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Katherine Gill
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Center for Clinical Research (CCR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Laura Myers
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ednar Casmir
- Center for Clinical Research (CCR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Menna Duyver
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gustavo F. Doncel
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
56
|
Pasipanodya EC, Stockman J, Phuntsog T, Morris S, Psaros C, Landovitz R, Amico KR, Moore DJ, Blumenthal J. "PrEP"ing for a PrEP demonstration project: understanding PrEP knowledge and attitudes among cisgender women. BMC Womens Health 2021; 21:220. [PMID: 34034719 PMCID: PMC8146684 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-021-01348-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior to implementing a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration study, we sought to explore cisgender women's experiences with HIV prevention, PrEP knowledge and attitudes, and anticipated barriers and facilitators for PrEP uptake and adherence in Southern California. METHODS Three focus groups were held with cisgender women of mixed HIV serostatus in San Diego and Los Angeles between November 2015 and January 2016. Women were recruited through local testing sites, community-based organizations, and social media. Focus groups were audio-recorded and transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Twenty-two women participated in focus groups, with median age 44 (IQR 30-53) and 6 identifying as non-Hispanic Black, 7 non-Hispanic White, 8 Latina and 1 mixed race. Despite limited prior PrEP knowledge and no PrEP experience, participants expressed interest in taking PrEP. Anticipated benefits were freedom from worry about HIV and control over sexual health; however, these were tempered by concerns including the possibility of increased HIV risk behaviors and potential side effects. Cisgender women reported potential barriers to PrEP uptake and adherence barriers, like competing priorities and poor PrEP access. Conversely, PrEP facilitators included utilizing practical tools such as phone apps and pill boxes as well as receiving encouragement from loved ones and support from other cisgender women on PrEP, women living with HIV and their medical providers. CONCLUSIONS Although PrEP awareness was low, participants recognized the importance of PrEP and ways to facilitate adherence. Exploring perspectives of cisgender women is integral to developing effective interventions to support PrEP uptake and adherence for women at elevated risk for HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jamila Stockman
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Thupten Phuntsog
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sheldon Morris
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Christina Psaros
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Raphael Landovitz
- UCLA Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - K Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - David J Moore
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jill Blumenthal
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Closson K, Lee L, Dietrich JJ, Beksinska ME, Hornschuh S, Smith P, Smit JA, Ndung'u T, Brockman M, Gray G, Kaida A. Gender and Power Dynamics of Social Relationships Shape Willingness to Participate in Biomedical HIV Prevention Research Among South African Adolescents and Young Adults. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:639391. [PMID: 36304054 PMCID: PMC9580742 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.639391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Understanding young women and men's perceived barriers and facilitators to participation in biomedical HIV prevention research is important for designing youth friendly services (YFS) and acceptable technologies, which are necessary for preventing high sustained HIV incidence in South Africa. This study explores the multileveled barriers and facilitators to young men and women's willingness to participate in hypothetical biomedical HIV prevention research. Methods: Eight age- (16-18 and 19-24 years) and gender-stratified focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted using semi-structured interview guides to explore young South African women and men's willingness, perceived barriers, and facilitators to participating in biomedical HIV prevention research. FGD transcripts were uploaded to NVivo and coded collaboratively with youth study team members. Thematic analysis using Bronfenbrenner's ecological model (individual, inter-personal, community, and societal) was used to guide a deductive coding procedure, which was documented and compared by gender. Results: Thirty-one participants from Durban and 34 from Soweto participated in FGDs. Individual facilitators for participation were discussed more by young men and included financial incentives and altruism. Concerns about side-effects of biomedical products were a common barrier. Interpersonal relationships with peers, intimate partners and caregivers influenced young people's willingness to participate in HIV prevention research, more so among young women. For young women, gendered power dynamics and distrust of intimate partners and parents influenced both communication regarding participation and willingness to participate in research that is often stigmatized, due to societal norms around women's sexuality. On a societal level, participants expressed distrust in medical and research institutions, however a sense of community that was developed with the study staff of this project, was a motivator to participate in future studies. Discussion: At each level of the ecological model, we found participants expressed gendered barriers and facilitators for participation. Gender norms as well as distrust of partners, parents, and health care professionals were key barriers that cut across all levels. At each level participants discussed facilitators that were youth-engaged, underscoring the need to implement YFS, establish trust and address gender inequities within future biomedical HIV prevention studies wishing to engage and retain South African youth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalysha Closson
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Laura Lee
- Branch for International Surgical Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Janan J. Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Mags E. Beksinska
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Stefanie Hornschuh
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patricia Smith
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Jenni A. Smit
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Thumbi Ndung'u
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme and Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts, Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mark Brockman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Glenda Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Office of the President, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
58
|
Audet CM, Graves E, Emílio AM, Matino A, Paulo P, Aboobacar AM, Fonseca CL, Van Rompaey S, De Schacht C. Effect of a storytelling intervention on the retention of serodiscordant couples in ART/PrEP services at antenatal clinic in Namacurra province in Zambézia, Mozambique. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2021; 22:100782. [PMID: 34095604 PMCID: PMC8167234 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2021.100782] [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: 05/24/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sub-Saharan Africa reported 550,000 new HIV infections among women in 2018. Pregnancy and the postpartum period are associated with an increased risk of HIV acquisition (adjusted risk ratio [RR]: 2.8 during pregnancy and 4.0 in postpartum period vs. non-pregnant or postpartum women, respectively). Acquisition of HIV during pregnancy and breastfeeding increases risk of mother to child transmission. We propose to test the impact of a peer-delivered oral storytelling intervention to increase retention in, and adherence to, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)/combination antiretroviral treatment (ART) among expectant couples. Design We propose a randomized controlled trial (RCT) (35 intervention and 35 control couples) at a health facility where 11% of expectant couples were in serodiscordant relationships in 2018. Couples randomized to the storytelling arm will be visited by a two community volunteers and who successfully adhered to PrEP/ART during a recent pregnancy. This expert couple will orate to participating couples three stories (at 1, 3 and 5 weeks after study enrollment) designed to empower, educate, and establish “ideal” interpersonal communication strategies within couples/families, and support adherence practices among participants. The primary outcome among HIV-uninfected women will be adherence to PrEP at 3 months. Conclusions PrEP among at-risk pregnant women must be implemented so that high levels of adherence and retention are achievable for them and their partners. We will test our storytelling intervention to identify an optimal strategy for PrEP education and family engagement in a region with high HIV prevalence. Our results will have an impact by effectively engaging serodiscordant couples in prevention/treatment during pregnancy and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M Audet
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, 2525 West End Ave, Suite 750, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA.,Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Health Policy, 2525 West End Ave, Suite 1200, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA
| | - Erin Graves
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, 2525 West End Ave, Suite 750, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA
| | - Almiro M Emílio
- Friends in Global Health, Avenida dos Trabalhadores, 424, Quelimane, Mozambique
| | - Ariano Matino
- Friends in Global Health, Avenida dos Trabalhadores, 424, Quelimane, Mozambique
| | - Paula Paulo
- Friends in Global Health, Avenida dos Trabalhadores, 424, Quelimane, Mozambique
| | - Arifo M Aboobacar
- Provincial Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Province of Zambézia, Quelimane, Mozambique
| | - Carlota L Fonseca
- Friends in Global Health, Avenida da Maguiguana, 32 R/C, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Sara Van Rompaey
- Friends in Global Health, Avenida da Maguiguana, 32 R/C, Maputo, Mozambique
| | | |
Collapse
|
59
|
Muhumuza R, Ssemata AS, Kakande A, Ahmed N, Atujuna M, Nomvuyo M, Bekker LG, Dietrich JJ, Tshabalala G, Hornschuh S, Maluadzi M, Chibanda-Stranix L, Nematadzira T, Weiss HA, Nash S, Fox J, Seeley J. Exploring Perceived Barriers and Facilitators of PrEP Uptake among Young People in Uganda, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:1729-1742. [PMID: 33954824 PMCID: PMC8213546 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01880-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective HIV prevention strategy. Few studies have explored adolescents and young people's perspectives toward PrEP. We conducted 24 group discussions and 60 in-depth interviews with males and females aged 13-24 years in Uganda, Zimbabwe, and South Africa between September 2018 and February 2019. We used the framework approach to generate themes and key concepts for analysis following the social ecological model. Young people expressed a willingness to use PrEP and identified potential barriers and facilitators of PrEP uptake. Barriers included factors at individual (fear of HIV, fear of side effects, and PrEP characteristics), interpersonal (parental influence, absence of a sexual partner), community (peer influence, social stigma), institutional (long waiting times at clinics, attitudes of health workers), and structural (cost of PrEP and mode of administration, accessibility concerns) levels. Facilitators included factors at individual (high HIV risk perception and preventing HIV/desire to remain HIV negative), interpersonal (peer influence, social support and care for PrEP uptake), community (adequate PrEP information and sensitization, evidence of PrEP efficacy and safety), institutional (convenient and responsive services, provision of appropriate and sufficiently resourced services), and structural (access and availability of PrEP, cost of PrEP) levels. The findings indicated that PrEP is an acceptable HIV prevention method. PrEP uptake is linked to personal and environmental factors that need to be considered for successful PrEP roll-out. Multi-level interventions needed to promote PrEP uptake should consider the social and structural drivers and focus on ways that can inspire PrEP uptake and limit the barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Muhumuza
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Andrew Sentoogo Ssemata
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ayoub Kakande
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Nadia Ahmed
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mangxilana Nomvuyo
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Janan Janine Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gugulethu Tshabalala
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Stefanie Hornschuh
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mamakiri Maluadzi
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Helen Anne Weiss
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Stephen Nash
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julie Fox
- Department of Infectious Diseases, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
60
|
van der Straten A, Ryan JH, Reddy K, Etima J, Taulo F, Mutero P, Taylor J, Piper J, Musara P. Influences on willingness to use vaginal or oral HIV PrEP during pregnancy and breastfeeding in Africa: the multisite MAMMA study. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 23:e25536. [PMID: 32524700 PMCID: PMC7287313 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Women in sub‐Saharan Africa spend a substantial portion of their reproductive lives pregnant and/or breastfeeding (P/BF), yet they have limited options to prevent HIV during these maternal stages. In preparation for phase 3b prevention trials in P/BF women, we explored attitudes about using a vaginal ring or oral pills for pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), perceptions of HIV risk during P/BF and key influences on future PrEP use. Methods In 2018, we conducted 16 single‐sex focus group discussions (FGDs) with community‐ and clinic‐recruited HIV‐uninfected women, currently or recently P/BF, aged 18 to 40, and men with (currently or recently) P/BF partners, aged 18+. Participants completed a behavioural questionnaire, viewed an educational video and handled prototype placebo products. FGDs were conducted in local languages and transcribed, coded and analysed, using a socio‐ecological framework, for key influences on willingness to use products, HIV risk perceptions and opinions on product attributes. Results Of the 128 participants (65 women, 63 men) 75% lived with their partner and 84% had a child. Women reported the most important influencers when P/BF were partners, and all stated that health decisions when P/BF are typically made jointly (e.g. medication use; ante/postnatal and baby care). There was consensus that P/BF women are at high risk for HIV, primarily because of their partner’s infidelities, and new prevention options were welcomed. Participants valued multiple options and stated that woman’s personal preference would be key to product choice. Anticipated concerns about products included risk of miscarriage, impact on infant development, complications during delivery and adequate production or taste of breastmilk. Specific perceived disadvantages emerged for the ring (e.g. vaginal discomfort, difficulty inserting/removing) and for pills (e.g. nausea/vomiting) that may be exacerbated during pregnancy. Health care providers’ (HCPs) knowledge and approval of product use during P/BF was needed to mitigate anticipated fears. Conclusions Participants perceived pregnancy and breastfeeding as high HIV risk periods and valued new prevention options. HIV protection of the mother‐child dyad, safety of the baby, and ultimately, health of the family were paramount. Endorsement by HCPs and support from partners were key to future product acceptance. Participants recommended involving partners and HCPs in sensitization efforts for future trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ariane van der Straten
- Women's Global Health Imperative (WGHI), RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Julia H Ryan
- Women's Global Health Imperative (WGHI), RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Krishnaveni Reddy
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University - Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Frank Taulo
- Johns Hopkins Project-College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Prisca Mutero
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | - Petina Musara
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | |
Collapse
|
61
|
Giovenco D, Gill K, Fynn L, Duyver M, O’Rourke S, van der Straten A, Morton JF, Celum CL, Bekker LG. Experiences of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use disclosure among South African adolescent girls and young women and its perceived impact on adherence. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248307. [PMID: 33667264 PMCID: PMC7935254 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is limited understanding of how social dynamics impact pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in generalized HIV-epidemic settings. We examined experiences of oral PrEP use disclosure to various social groups with the goal of identifying supportive relationships that can be leveraged to promote adherence. METHODS We used qualitative methods to explore experiences disclosing PrEP use and the perceived impact of disclosure on adherence among 22 South African AGYW (16-25 years) taking daily oral PrEP. Serial in-depth-interviews (IDIs) were conducted 1-, 3-, and 12-months post-PrEP initiation. Respondents also self-reported their disclosures separately for various social groups and adherence was assessed using intracellular tenofovir-diphosphate levels. RESULTS Qualitative respondents had a median age of 20.5 years and reported disclosing their PrEP use to friends (n = 36 total disclosures), partners, siblings, other family members (n = 24 disclosures each), and parents (n = 19 disclosures). IDI data revealed that parents and partners provided the most support to respondents and a lack of support from these groups was most often perceived as negatively affecting PrEP use. AGYW described difficulties explaining PrEP to their mothers, who believed PrEP was HIV treatment or would lead to HIV infection. Disclosure to household members was notably meaningful for AGYW (both positively and negatively). Respondents reported leveraging supportive relationships for pill reminders. For respondents who perceived a household member would be unsupportive, however, non-disclosure was less feasible and PrEP use was often stigmatized. To avoid stigma, several respondents hid or discontinued PrEP. CONCLUSIONS While supportive relationships may facilitate PrEP use, disclosure can also lead to stigma. Counselors should support AGYW in disclosing to key people in their social networks and provide AGYW with materials that lend credibility to explanations of PrEP. Community education is necessary to alleviate PrEP-related stigma and facilitate disclosure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Giovenco
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katherine Gill
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lauren Fynn
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Menna Duyver
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Shannon O’Rourke
- RTI International, Women’s Global Health Imperative, Berkeley, CA, United States of America
| | - Ariane van der Straten
- RTI International, Women’s Global Health Imperative, Berkeley, CA, United States of America
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Jennifer F. Morton
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Connie L. Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Felsher M, Ziegler E, Amico KR, Carrico A, Coleman J, Roth AM. "PrEP just isn't my priority": Adherence challenges among women who inject drugs participating in a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration project in Philadelphia, PA USA. Soc Sci Med 2021; 275:113809. [PMID: 33735778 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has the ability to curb HIV transmission among women if they are highly adherent (e.g. 6/7 weekly doses). In a recent PrEP demonstration project with 95 women who inject drugs (WWID) in Philadelphia, PA, USA, PrEP uptake was high but adherence was low. This qualitative study draws upon the Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations (BMVP) to describe how the context of 23 WWID's lives challenged PrEP adherence using narrative data from in-depth interviews. Content analysis suggests that women's need to organize their day around predisposing survival needs made it difficult to prioritize PrEP. Adherence was further challenged by dis-enabling structural forces such as entry into institutions that do not provide PrEP (e.g., drug treatment and correctional facilities) and medication diversion to illicit marketplaces. Overtime, women's perceived need for PrEP was dynamic: in periods they characterized as risky, women considered PrEP highly beneficial and described enhanced motivation to adhere. In periods of low perceived risk, women were less committed to continuing daily PrEP in the context of their competing survival needs. In sum, WWID faced challenges to PrEP adherence that correspond to all of the BMVP domains. To optimize PrEP for WWID, multi-level programs are needed that address the determinants that both increase HIV susceptibility and undermine adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Felsher
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 4940 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
| | - Eliza Ziegler
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - K Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Adam Carrico
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - Jennie Coleman
- Prevention Point Philadelphia, 2913 Kensington Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19134, USA.
| | - Alexis M Roth
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
63
|
Roth AM, Tran NK, Felsher MA, Gadegbeku AB, Piecara B, Fox R, Krakower DS, Bellamy SL, Amico KR, Benitez JA, Van Der Pol B. Integrating HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis With Community-Based Syringe Services for Women Who Inject Drugs: Results From the Project SHE Demonstration Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 86:e61-e70. [PMID: 33148998 PMCID: PMC7878321 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To guide future preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) implementation for women who inject drugs (WWID), a population increasingly represented in new HIV cases in the United States, we present results from a demonstration project integrated within a syringe services program (SSP) in Philadelphia, PA. METHODS WWID ≥18 years were educated about and offered 24 weeks of daily PrEP. Participants completed surveys and clinical assessments at baseline and at weeks 1, 3, 12, and 24. We used descriptive statistics to estimate feasibility/acceptability, engagement in the care cascade, HIV/sexually transmitted diseases (STI) and pregnancy, issues of safety/tolerability, and preferences/satisfaction with PrEP services. Multivariable logistic regression with generalized estimating equations was used to identify factors associated with PrEP uptake and retention. RESULTS We recruited 136 WWID. Of those, 95 were included in the final sample, and 63 accepted a PrEP prescription at week 1. Uptake was associated with greater baseline frequency of SSP access [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.85; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.24 to 2.77], inconsistent condom use (aOR = 3.38; 95% CI: 1.07 to 10.7), and experiencing sexual assault (aOR = 5.89; 95% CI: 1.02, 33.9). Of these 95, 42 (44.2%) were retained at week 24. Retention was higher among women who reported more frequent baseline SSP access (aOR = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.04 to 2.24). Self-reported adherence was high but discordant with urine-based quantification of tenofovir. Baseline STI prevalence was 17.9%; there were 2 HIV seroconversions and 1 pregnancy. Safety/tolerability issues were uncommon, and acceptability/satisfaction was high. CONCLUSIONS Integrating PrEP with SSP services is feasible and acceptable for WWID. This suggests that daily PrEP is a viable prevention tool for this vulnerable population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis M. Roth
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nguyen K. Tran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marisa A. Felsher
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Annette B. Gadegbeku
- Department of Family, Community, and Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brogan Piecara
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rachel Fox
- Partnership Comprehensive Care Practice, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Douglas S. Krakower
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scarlett L. Bellamy
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - K. Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Barbara Van Der Pol
- Division of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
64
|
Velloza J, Kapogiannis B, Bekker LG, Celum C, Hosek S, Delany-Moretlwe S, Baggaley R, Dalal S. Interventions to improve daily medication use among adolescents and young adults: what can we learn for youth pre-exposure prophylaxis services? AIDS 2021; 35:463-475. [PMID: 33252486 PMCID: PMC7855564 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an important HIV prevention method and studies have shown that young people ages 15-24 have difficulty adhering to daily PrEP. The field of PrEP delivery for young people is relatively nascent and lessons about potential PrEP adherence interventions could be learned from the larger evidence base of adherence interventions for other daily medications among youth. DESIGN Systematic review of adherence support interventions for adolescents. METHODS We searched PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO through January 2020 for oral contraceptive pill (OCP), antiretroviral therapy (ART), asthma, and diabetes medication adherence interventions. We reviewed primary articles about OCP adherence interventions and reviewed systematic reviews for ART, asthma, and diabetes medication adherence interventions. Studies were retained if they included participants' ages 10-24 years; measured OCP, ART, asthma, or diabetes medication adherence; and were systematic reviews, randomized trials, or quasi-experimental studies. RESULTS Fifteen OCP articles and 26 ART, diabetes, and asthma systematic reviews were included. Interventions that improved medication adherence for OCPs, ART, asthma, and diabetes treatment included reminder text messages, computer-based and phone-based support, and enhanced counseling. Multi-month prescriptions and same-day pill starts also were found to improve OCP adherence and continuation. Adolescent-friendly clinics and peer-based counseling significantly improved ART adherence, and telemedicine interventions improved diabetes medication adherence. CONCLUSION Interventions that improve medication adherence among youth include enhanced counseling, extended pill supply, adolescent-friendly services, and text message reminders. PrEP programs could incorporate and evaluate such interventions for their impact on PrEP adherence and continuation among at-risk adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Velloza
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Bill Kapogiannis
- Maternal and Pediatric Infectious Disease Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Sybil Hosek
- Department of Psychiatry, Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sinead Delany-Moretlwe
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rachel Baggaley
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Shona Dalal
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
65
|
Tolley EE, Zissette S, Martinez A, Palanee-Phillips T, Mathebula F, Tenza S, Hartmann M, Montgomery ET. Development and initial validation of a simple tool to screen for partner support or opposition to HIV prevention product use. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242881. [PMID: 33351805 PMCID: PMC7755213 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In HIV prevention trials, male partners have influenced women’s ability to adhere to investigational products, including antiretroviral (ARV) containing vaginal rings. Validated scales can be useful tools to systematically measure complex constructs, such as those related to male partner engagement. Although multiple scales exist to assess physical, psychological and sexual violence within intimate relationships, fewer scales focus on supportive behaviors within these relationships. Our intervention involved development of a Healthy Relationship Assessment Tool (HEART) that assessed both positive and negative aspects of male partner involvement in women’s HIV prevention. We identified and refined 127 potential items, representing intimate partner violence, agency and social support. A structured survey, including potential items and other sociodemographic and behavioral variables was administered to former microbicide trial and non-trial participants. We conducted an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to identify a reduced set of constructs and items to screen women who might experience social harms or benefits from vaginal ring use. We examined associations between constructs and with other survey variables to assess content and construct validity. In a subset of 10 women who participated in the survey and qualitative interviews, we used qualitative data to predict survey scores. We retained five constructs with theoretical relevance and good-to-strong reliability for the tool, including: Traditional Values; Partner Support; Partner Abuse & Control; Partner Resistance to HIV Prevention; and HIV Prevention Readiness. Predicted associations between HEART constructs, and correspondence between participants’ qualitative data and HEART scores were generally correct, while those between constructs and other sociodemographic variables were more mixed. Initial validation of the HEART tool was promising. The tool will be used during the CHARISMA pilot study at the Johannesburg MTN 025/HOPE site and validated as part of a randomized controlled trial of CHARISMA within a PrEP demonstration project. Beyond clinical trial settings, HEART could assist PrEP or antiretroviral treatment (ART) providers with an easy-to-administer tool to identify risk and tailor risk reduction, empowerment and adherence counseling for microbicides, PrEP or ART related services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth E. Tolley
- Behavioral, Epidemiological & Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Seth Zissette
- Behavioral, Epidemiological & Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Notre Dame University, South Bend, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Andres Martinez
- Behavioral, Epidemiological & Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Florence Mathebula
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Siyanda Tenza
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Miriam Hartmann
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco Project Office, California, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth T. Montgomery
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco Project Office, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
66
|
Velloza J, Khoza N, Scorgie F, Chitukuta M, Mutero P, Mutiti K, Mangxilana N, Nobula L, Bulterys MA, Atujuna M, Hosek S, Heffron R, Bekker L, Mgodi N, Chirenje M, Celum C, Delany‐Moretlwe S. The influence of HIV-related stigma on PrEP disclosure and adherence among adolescent girls and young women in HPTN 082: a qualitative study. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25463. [PMID: 32144874 PMCID: PMC7060297 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Stigma and disclosure concerns have been key barriers to oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence for African adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in efficacy trials. We aimed to understand the impact of these factors among African AGYW in an open‐label PrEP study. Methods HPTN 082 was an open‐label PrEP study among AGYW (ages 16 to 24) in Harare, Zimbabwe, and Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa from 2016 to 2018. Women starting PrEP were randomized to standard adherence support (counselling, two‐way SMS, monthly adherence clubs) or standard support plus drug‐level feedback. Serial in‐depth interviews were conducted among 67 AGYW after 13‐week and 26‐week study visits to explore experiences of stigma, disclosure and PrEP adherence. We analysed data by coding transcripts and memo‐writing and diagramming to summarize themes. Results AGYW described stigma related to sexual activity (e.g. “people say I'm a prostitute”) and being perceived to be living with HIV because of taking antiretrovirals (e.g. “my husband's friends say I'm HIV infected”). Participants who anticipated stigma were reluctant to disclose PrEP use and reported adherence challenges. Disclosure also resulted in stigmatizing experiences. Across all sites, negative descriptions of stigma and disclosure challenges were more common in the first interview. In the second interview, participants often described disclosure as an “empowering” way to combat community‐level PrEP stigma; many said that they proactively discussed PrEP in their communities (e.g. became a “community PrEP ambassador”), which improved their ability to take PrEP and encourage others to use PrEP. These empowering disclosure experiences were facilitated by ongoing HPTN 082 study activities (e.g. counselling sessions, adherence clubs) in which they could discuss PrEP‐related stigma, disclosure and PrEP adherence issues. Conclusions Stigma and disclosure challenges were initial concerns for African AGYW newly initiating PrEP but many were empowered to disclose PrEP use over their first six months of PrEP use, which helped them cope with stigma and feel more able to take PrEP regularly. PrEP programmes can foster disclosure through community and clinic‐based discussion, adherence clubs and activities normalizing sexual behaviour and PrEP use, which can reduce stigma and improve PrEP adherence and thus effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nomhle Khoza
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute (Wits RHI)JohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Fiona Scorgie
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute (Wits RHI)JohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Miria Chitukuta
- Clinical Trials Research CentreUniversity of Zimbabwe College of Health SciencesHarareZimbabwe
| | - Prisca Mutero
- Clinical Trials Research CentreUniversity of Zimbabwe College of Health SciencesHarareZimbabwe
| | - Kudzai Mutiti
- Clinical Trials Research CentreUniversity of Zimbabwe College of Health SciencesHarareZimbabwe
| | | | - Lumka Nobula
- Desmond Tutu HIV FoundationCape TownSouth Africa
| | | | | | - Sybil Hosek
- Stroger H. Hospital of Cook CountyChicagoILUSA
| | | | - Linda‐Gail Bekker
- Faculty of Health SciencesInstitute of Infectious Disease and Molecular MedicineUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Nyaradzo Mgodi
- Clinical Trials Research CentreUniversity of Zimbabwe College of Health SciencesHarareZimbabwe
| | - Mike Chirenje
- Clinical Trials Research CentreUniversity of Zimbabwe College of Health SciencesHarareZimbabwe
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
67
|
Wechsberg WM, Browne FA, Ndirangu J, Bonner CP, Minnis AM, Nyblade L, Speizer IS, Howard BN, Myers B, Ahmed K. The PrEPARE Pretoria Project: protocol for a cluster-randomized factorial-design trial to prevent HIV with PrEP among adolescent girls and young women in Tshwane, South Africa. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1403. [PMID: 32933510 PMCID: PMC7490774 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09458-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite increased prevention efforts, HIV remains the leading cause of death among adolescent girls and young women in South Africa. Although research indicates important determinants of HIV acquisition at the individual and interpersonal levels, structural-level stigma and discrimination continue to be critical barriers to reaching and retaining this key population for HIV prevention and sexual and reproductive health services. Innovative and multilevel interventions are needed that can address the intersectional structural and gender issues that young women face, including stigma, alcohol and drug use, gender-based violence, and other risk factors when seeking health services. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) taken daily has been found to be an effective biomedical HIV prevention tool. Testing a comprehensive gender-focused biobehavioral HIV prevention intervention that is inclusive of social ecological determinants, such as stigma and discrimination reduction in clinics, is critical for reducing HIV among adolescent girls and young women. METHODS This project involves both a Community Collaborative Board and a Youth Advisory Board in helping to adapt the Young Women's Health CoOp intervention and the Health Policy Project (HPP) Stigma and Discrimination (S&D) reduction training curriculum to the setting and population. This study uses a two-by-two factorial design with stratified randomization of 12 clinics, each with distinct catchment areas. The Young Women's Health CoOp addresses substance use, sexual risk, violence prevention and sexual negotiation, condom demonstration, and problem solving with the following additions: knowledge of PrEP, the importance of PrEP adherence, and sexual and reproductive health. Adolescent girls and young women will be assessed with behavioral and biological measures at baseline, 3-, 6- and 9-month follow-up. The S&D reduction training is provided for all staff in the clinics randomized to this condition. Clinic staff will be surveyed at baseline, 4- and 8-month follow-up. We will recruit 900 AGYW from communities in the 12 clinic catchment areas. DISCUSSION The study findings, if efficacious across the outcomes, will be incorporated into the gender-focused HIV prevention intervention toolkit and disseminated to inform multilevel prevention approaches. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov. Identifier: NCT04048551 (Recruiting). Registered: August 7, 2019 (Retrospectively registered).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wendee M Wechsberg
- Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA. .,Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA. .,Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, 640 Poe Hall, Campus Box 7650, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA. .,Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 40 Duke Medicine Circle, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Felicia A Browne
- Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA.,Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Jacqueline Ndirangu
- Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA
| | - Courtney Peasant Bonner
- Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA
| | - Alexandra M Minnis
- Center for Global Health, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 800, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA.,Epidemiology Division, Berkeley School of Public Health, University of California, 2121 Berkeley Way, Room 5302, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Laura Nyblade
- International Global Health Division, International Development Group, RTI International, 701 13th Street NW #750, Washington, DC, 20005, USA
| | - Ilene S Speizer
- Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Brittni N Howard
- Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Unit, Medical Research Council Francie van Zijl Drive, Parow Valley, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Khatija Ahmed
- Setshaba Research Centre, 2088 Block H, Soshanguve, 0152, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
68
|
Contraception, HIV Services, and PrEP in South African Hair Salons: A Qualitative Study of Owner, Stylist, and Client Perspectives. J Community Health 2020; 44:1150-1159. [PMID: 31280429 PMCID: PMC6800398 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-019-00698-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Women experience challenges engaging with the healthcare system, but frequently utilize hair salons; these are promising venues for family planning and HIV prevention services. Our objective was to assess the acceptability of nurse-offered contraceptive and PrEP services at hair salons in Durban, South Africa. We interviewed salon owners (N = 10) and clients (N = 42) and conducted focus groups with hair stylists (N = 43 stylists; 6 focus groups across five hair salons) to explore barriers and facilitators to providing contraception and PrEP in salons. After developing a codebook, we performed content analysis to identify themes within each conceptual area; 10% of transcripts were coded by two coders to ensure reliability. Content was analyzed according to the following categories: (1) facilitators of and (2) barriers to utilizing these services, and (3) factors to consider for program implementation. Participants identified convenience and female-oriented, supportive atmosphere as facilitators to offering HIV and contraceptive services in salons. Owners and stylists noted that establishing legitimacy was important for program success, including providing promotional pamphlets and employing nurses. Clients cited privacy concerns surrounding HIV testing in a public space as a significant barrier to using these services. Overall, participants were enthusiastic about the program. Convenience and a conducive environment were noted as facilitators to receiving health services in the hair salon; attention will have to be directed to establishing privacy and program legitimacy. Hair salons represent an innovative venue for reaching young women at high-risk for unintended pregnancy and HIV infection.
Collapse
|
69
|
Camlin CS, Koss CA, Getahun M, Owino L, Itiakorit H, Akatukwasa C, Maeri I, Bakanoma R, Onyango A, Atwine F, Ayieko J, Kabami J, Mwangwa F, Atukunda M, Owaraganise A, Kwarisiima D, Sang N, Bukusi EA, Kamya MR, Petersen ML, Cohen CR, Charlebois ED, Havlir DV. Understanding Demand for PrEP and Early Experiences of PrEP Use Among Young Adults in Rural Kenya and Uganda: A Qualitative Study. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:2149-2162. [PMID: 31955361 PMCID: PMC7909847 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02780-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have sought to understand factors influencing uptake and continuation of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among young adults in sub-Saharan Africa in the context of population-based delivery of open-label PrEP. To address this gap, this qualitative study was implemented within the SEARCH study (NCT#01864603) in Kenya and Uganda, which achieved near-universal HIV testing, and offered PrEP in 16 intervention communities beginning in 2016-2017. Focus group discussions (8 groups, n = 88 participants) and in-depth interviews (n = 23) with young adults who initiated or declined PrEP were conducted in five communities, to explore PrEP-related beliefs and attitudes, HIV risk perceptions, motivations for uptake and continuation, and experiences. Grounded theoretical methods were used to analyze data. Young people felt personally vulnerable to HIV, but perceived the severity of HIV to be low, due to the success of antiretroviral therapy (ART): daily pill-taking was more threatening than the disease itself. Motivations for PrEP were highly gendered: young men viewed PrEP as a vehicle for safely pursuing multiple partners, while young women saw PrEP as a means to control risks in the context of engagement in transactional sex and limited agency to negotiate condom use and partner testing. Rumors, HIV/ART-related stigma, and desire for "proof" of efficacy militated against uptake, and many women required partners' permission to take PrEP. Uptake was motivated by high perceived HIV risk, and beliefs that PrEP use supported life goals. PrEP was often discontinued due to dissolution of partnerships/changing risk, unsupportive partners/peers, or early side effects/pill burden. Despite high perceived risks and interest, PrEP was received with moral ambivalence because of its associations with HIV/ART and stigmatized behaviors. Delivery models that promote youth access, frame messaging on wellness and goals, and foster partner and peer support, may facilitate uptake among young people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carol S Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, ANSIRH Program, University of California San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA.
| | - Catherine A Koss
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Monica Getahun
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, ANSIRH Program, University of California San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
| | | | | | | | - Irene Maeri
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - James Ayieko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jane Kabami
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | - Norton Sang
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Moses R Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Maya L Petersen
- Graduate Group in Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, USA
| | - Craig R Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, ANSIRH Program, University of California San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
| | - Edwin D Charlebois
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Diane V Havlir
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| |
Collapse
|
70
|
Velloza J, Heffron R, Amico KR, Rowhani-Rahbar A, Hughes JP, Li M, Dye BJ, Celum C, Bekker LG, Grant RM. The Effect of Depression on Adherence to HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Among High-Risk South African Women in HPTN 067/ADAPT. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:2178-2187. [PMID: 31955360 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02783-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly efficacious but low adherence undermines effectiveness. Depression, common in African women, may be a barrier to consistent PrEP use. We aimed to assess the relationship between depression, psychosocial mediators, and PrEP adherence among South African women. We analyzed data from 174 South African women in HPTN 067, an open-label oral PrEP trial conducted from 2011 to 2013. Participants were followed for 24 weeks. PrEP adherence was measured via Wisepill™ and weekly self-report interview data. We considered participants "adherent" at week 24 if Wisepill™ and interviews indicated that ≥ 80% of expected doses were taken in the prior month. Elevated depressive symptoms were assessed using the 20-item Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale. We used marginal structural models to estimate the effect of elevated symptoms at baseline on PrEP adherence at week 24 and to assess whether the direct effect changed meaningfully after accounting for mediating effects of stigma, social support, and PrEP optimism. High PrEP adherence occurred less often among women with elevated depressive symptoms (N = 35; 44.3%) compared with those without (N = 52; 54.7%; adjusted relative risk [aRR]: 0.79; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63-0.99). The effect of elevated depressive symptoms on PrEP adherence persisted in models accounting for the mediating influence of stigma (aRR: 0.74; 95% CI 0.51-0.97) and PrEP optimism (aRR: 0.75; 95% CI 0.55-0.99). We also found a direct effect of similar magnitude and direction when accounting for social support as the mediating variable, although this adjusted relative risk estimate was not statistically significant (aRR: 0.77; 95% CI 0.57-1.03). Depressive symptoms were common and associated with lower PrEP adherence among South African women. Future work is needed to determine whether depression services integrated with PrEP delivery could improve PrEP effectiveness among African women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Velloza
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- International Clinical Research Center, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 359927, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - James P Hughes
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maoji Li
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robert M Grant
- University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
71
|
Insights for Implementation Science From 2 Multiphased Studies With End-Users of Potential Multipurpose Prevention Technology and HIV Prevention Products. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 82 Suppl 3:S222-S229. [PMID: 31764258 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lower adherence to biomedical HIV prevention and challenges with persistence among young women underscore the need for methods to identify factors that will achieve higher adoption and use of effective prevention options and inform new approaches. SETTING South Africa, Kenya, and Zimbabwe. METHODS We synthesized findings from 2 multiphased studies (TRIO and Quatro) conducted with young women aged 18-30 years that included a crossover clinical study with placebo products, a discrete-choice experiment, and qualitative interviews with women, male partners, and health providers. TRIO evaluated 3 products (tablets, ring, and injections), and Quatro compared 4 vaginal products (ring, insert, film, and gel) for HIV prevention. Both were designed to assess product preferences, choice, and use. RESULTS Increased experience with placebo products in the crossover study informed young women's product ratings and preferences. Over half changed their mind regarding their most preferred product after trying each one. The integrated qualitative component was vital to understanding what prompted these preference shifts. The discrete choice experiment provided insights on how features not available in placebos, like efficacy and contraception, influence choice and the tradeoffs women may be willing to make to gain a desired product feature. CONCLUSION The use of multiple research methods allowed for evaluation of varied dimensions of acceptability, preference, and choice in the context of diverse biomedical HIV prevention delivery forms. Findings elucidated the value of product choice with differences in preference within and across settings. Collectively, the 3 methodologies offered important insights about these products informative to enhanced product design development and future implementation.
Collapse
|
72
|
Minnis AM, Atujuna M, Browne EN, Ndwayana S, Hartmann M, Sindelo S, Ngcwayi N, Boeri M, Mansfield C, Bekker L, Montgomery ET. Preferences for long-acting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention among South African youth: results of a discrete choice experiment. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25528. [PMID: 32544303 PMCID: PMC7297460 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Existing biomedical HIV prevention options, though highly effective, present substantial adherence challenges. End-user input on early-stage design of new HIV prevention approaches is critical to yielding products that achieve high uptake and adherence. The iPrevent Study examined youths' preferences for key attributes of long-acting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), with a focus on characteristics pertinent to product delivery alongside key modifiable product attributes. METHODS A discrete choice experiment was conducted with female and male youth aged 18 to 24 in two high-density communities in Cape Town, South Africa during the period July 2017 to January 2019. Sexually active, PrEP-naïve youth were recruited using population-based sampling; targeted sampling was used to enrol men who have sex with men (MSM). In a series of nine questions, participants were asked to choose between two hypothetical products composed of five attributes (form, dosing frequency, access, pain, insertion site). We used a random-parameters logit model to estimate preference weights and trade-offs among product alternatives. We examined differences across three subgroups: females, men who have sex with only women (MSW) and MSM. RESULTS A total of 807 participants (401 female) were enrolled with a median age of 21 years. Males included 190 MSM. Most youth had tested for HIV (95%) and reported being HIV-negative (91%). Across all groups, duration of effectiveness was the most important attribute, with strong preference for less frequent dosing. Injections were favoured over implants, though these preferences were strongest for females and MSM. Females preferred a product offered at a health clinic and disliked pharmacy access; all groups preferred the arm as the insertion site. Youth were willing to trade their preferred product form for longer duration. CONCLUSIONS Youth indicated strong preferences for longer duration products. Each attribute nonetheless influenced preferences, offering insight into trade-offs that inform long-acting PrEP development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Erica N Browne
- Women’s Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Sheily Ndwayana
- The Desmond Tutu HIV CentreUniversity of Cape TownSouth Africa
| | - Miriam Hartmann
- Women’s Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | | | | | - Marco Boeri
- Health Preference AssessmentRTI Health SolutionsBelfastIreland
| | - Carol Mansfield
- Health SolutionsRTI InternationalResearch Triangle ParkNCUSA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
73
|
Holmes LE, Kaufman MR, Casella A, Mudavanhu M, Mutunga L, Polzer T, Bassett J, Van Rie A, Schwartz S. Qualitative characterizations of relationships among South African adolescent girls and young women and male partners: implications for engagement across HIV self-testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis prevention cascades. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 3:e25521. [PMID: 32603025 PMCID: PMC7325584 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa have emerged as a priority population in need of HIV prevention interventions. Secondary distribution of home-based HIV self-test kits by AGYW to male partners (MP) is a novel prevention strategy that complements pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a female-controlled prevention intervention. The objective of this analysis was to qualitatively operationalize two HIV prevention cascades through the lens of relationship dynamics for secondary distribution of HIV self-tests to MP and PrEP for AGYW. METHODS From April 2018 to December 2018, 2200 HIV-negative AGYW aged 16-24 years were enrolled into an HIV prevention intervention which involved secondary distribution of self-tests to MP and PrEP for AGYW; of these women, 91 participants or MP were sampled for in-depth interviews based on their degree of completion of the two HIV prevention cascades. A grounded theory approach was used to characterize participants' relationship profiles, which were mapped to participants' engagement with the interventions. RESULTS In cases where AGYW had a MP with multiple partners, AGYW perceived both interventions as inviting distrust into the relationship and insinuating non-monogamy. Many chose not to accept either intervention, while others accepted and attempted to deliver the self-test kit but received a negative reaction from their MP. In the few cases where AGYW held multiple partnerships, both interventions were viewed as mechanisms for protecting one's health, and these AGYW exhibited confidence in accepting and delivering the self-test kits and initiating PrEP. Women who indicated intimate partner violence experiences chose not to accept either intervention because they feared it would elicit a violent reaction from their MP. For AGYW in relationships described as committed and emotionally open, self-test kit delivery was completed with ease, but PrEP was viewed as unnecessary. MP experience with the cascade corroborated AGYW perspectives and demonstrated how men can perceive female-initiated HIV prevention options as beneficial for AGYW and a threat to MP masculinity. CONCLUSIONS Screening to identify AGYW relationship dynamics can support tailoring prevention services to relationship-driven barriers and facilitators. HIV prevention counseling for AGYW should address relationship goals or partner's influence, and engage with MP around female-controlled prevention interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leah E Holmes
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Michelle R Kaufman
- Department of Health. Behavior & SocietyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Albert Casella
- Department of Health. Behavior & SocietyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | | | | | - Tara Polzer
- Social Surveys AfricaJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Jean Bassett
- Witkoppen Health and Welfare ClinicJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Annelies Van Rie
- Department of Epidemiology and Social MedicineUniversity of AntwerpAntwerpBelgium
| | - Sheree Schwartz
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| |
Collapse
|
74
|
Hill LM, Maseko B, Chagomerana M, Hosseinipour MC, Bekker L, Pettifor A, Rosenberg NE. HIV risk, risk perception, and PrEP interest among adolescent girls and young women in Lilongwe, Malawi: operationalizing the PrEP cascade. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 3:e25502. [PMID: 32602649 PMCID: PMC7325511 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As a user-controlled HIV prevention method, oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) holds particular promise for adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). HIV prevention cascades, critical frameworks for the design and evaluation of PrEP programmes, outline the priorities of identifying individuals at greatest HIV risk and motivating them to initiate PrEP through perceived HIV risk. To inform future iterations of these cascades and PrEP delivery for AGYW, the objective of this study was to understand the level of interest in PrEP among AGYW at highest HIV risk, and the potential role of perceived risk in motivating PrEP interest. METHODS Using data from a cohort study of HIV-negative AGYW in Lilongwe, Malawi (February 2016 to August 2017), we assessed the relationship between epidemiologic HIV risk (risk index developed in a previous analysis) and PrEP interest, and the extent to which perceived risk explains the relationship between HIV risk and PrEP interest. We further aimed to operationalize the pre-initiation steps of the HIV prevention cascade in the study population. RESULTS In total, 825 AGYW were included in analyses, of which 43% met the criterion for high epidemiologic HIV risk. While epidemiologic risk scores were positively associated with PrEP interest, high numbers of AGYW both above and below the high-risk cutoff were very interested in PrEP (68% vs. 63%). Perceived risk partially explained the relationship between HIV risk and PrEP interest; greater epidemiologic HIV risk was associated with high perceived risk, which was in turn associated with PrEP interest. Many more high-risk AGYW were interested in PrEP (68%) than expressed a high level of perceived HIV risk (26%). CONCLUSIONS These results highlight key relationships between epidemiologic HIV risk, risk perception and interest in PrEP. While risk perception did partially explain the relationship between epidemiologic risk and PrEP interest, there may be other important motivational mechanisms that are not captured in many HIV prevention cascades. The high number of participants with risk scores below the high-risk cutoff who both expressed high perceived risk and interest in PrEP suggests that demand for PrEP among AGYW may not be well aligned with epidemiologic risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Hill
- Department of Health BehaviorUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services ResearchUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
| | | | - Maganizo Chagomerana
- UNC Project‐MalawiLilongweMalawi
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
| | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- UNC Project‐MalawiLilongweMalawi
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
| | - Linda‐Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV CentreUCTFaculty of Health SciencesCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
| | - Nora E Rosenberg
- Department of Health BehaviorUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
- UNC Project‐MalawiLilongweMalawi
| |
Collapse
|
75
|
Brady M, Rodger A, Asboe D, Cambiano V, Clutterbuck D, Desai M, Field N, Harbottle J, Jamal Z, McCormack S, Palfreeman A, Portman M, Quinn K, Tenant-Flowers M, Wilkins E, Young I. BHIVA/BASHH guidelines on the use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) 2018. HIV Med 2020; 20 Suppl 2:s2-s80. [PMID: 30869189 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Brady
- Consultant in Sexual Health and HIV, King's College Hospital, London
| | - Alison Rodger
- Reader and Honorary Consultant Infectious Diseases and HIV, University College London
| | - David Asboe
- Consultant HIV and Sexual Health, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London
| | - Valentina Cambiano
- Lecturer in Infectious Disease Modelling and Biostatistics, University College London
| | | | - Monica Desai
- Consultant Epidemiologist, Public Health England
| | - Nigel Field
- Senior Lecturer, Consultant Clinical Epidemiologist, University College London
| | | | | | - Sheena McCormack
- Professor of Clinical Epidemiology, MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London
| | - Adrian Palfreeman
- Consultant HIV and Sexual Health, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust
| | - Mags Portman
- Consultant HIV and Sexual Health, Mortimer Market Centre, London
| | - Killian Quinn
- Consultant HIV and Sexual Health, King's College Hospital, London
| | | | - Ed Wilkins
- Consultant in Infectious Diseases, North Manchester General Hospital
| | - Ingrid Young
- Chancellor's Fellow, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh
| |
Collapse
|
76
|
Haberer JE, Mugo N, Baeten JM, Pyra M, Bukusi E, Bekker LG. PrEP as a Lifestyle and Investment for Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Sub-Saharan Africa. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2020; 18:2325958219831011. [PMID: 30776954 PMCID: PMC6748528 DOI: 10.1177/2325958219831011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are highly affected by the HIV epidemic, yet standard approaches to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery will not meet their needs. This commentary highlights key characteristics of AGYW related to PrEP use and delivery, including typical neurocognitive development, lack of experience with sustained medication use, and the social and connected nature of AGYW’s lives. We then suggest ways for programs to embrace these characteristics, such as presenting PrEP as a lifestyle choice and not a biomedical tool, making access to PrEP simple and easy, and recognizing the many influences AGYW face in taking PrEP. We also suggest ways for programs to identify AGYW at the highest risk of HIV acquisition. Adolescent girls and young women have an important role to play in ending the HIV epidemic and they deserve considerable, tailored investment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Haberer
- 1 Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,2 Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nelly Mugo
- 3 Kenya Medical Research Institute, Thika, Kenya.,4 University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Maria Pyra
- 4 University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Bukusi
- 4 University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,5 Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | |
Collapse
|
77
|
Bekker L, Li S, Pathak S, Tolley E, Marzinke M, Justman J, Mgodi N, Chirenje M, Swaminathan S, Adeyeye A, Farrior J, Hendrix C, Piwowar-Manning E, Richardson P, Eshelman S, Redinger H, Williams P, Sista N. Safety and tolerability of injectable Rilpivirine LA in HPTN 076: A phase 2 HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis study in women. EClinicalMedicine 2020; 21:100303. [PMID: 32280940 PMCID: PMC7139112 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Daily oral TDF/FTC is protective against HIV infection when used for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). However, daily adherence to oral PrEP is difficult for many; therefore, finding alternative PrEP strategies remains a priority. HPTN 076 evaluated the long-acting injectable form of rilpivirine (RPV), known as RPV LA for safety, pharmacokinetics and acceptability. METHODS HPTN 076 (NTC 02165202) was a phase 2, double-blind, 2:1 randomized trial comparing the safety of 1200mg RPV LA (LA) to placebo (P). The study included a 28-day oral run-in phase of daily, self- administered oral RPV (25 mg), with directly observed oral dosing about six times. Of 136 enrolled sexually active, HIV-uninfected, low HIV-risk African (100) and US (36) adult women, injectable product was administered in two gluteal, intramuscular (IM) injections once every eight weeks to 122 participants following the oral run-in phase. A maximum of six injection time points occurred over a 48-week period. Acceptability, safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetic (PK) data were collected throughout the study. This paper includes primary endpoint data collected up to the week 52 post enrollment. FINDINGS The median age of the enrolled population was 31 years (IQR: 25,38), median weight 75 kg (IQR: 64, 89), median body mass index (BMI) 30 (IQR: 27, 35), 46% married, 94% Black and 60% unemployed. A total of 122 (80 LA, 42 P) women received at least one injection and 98 (64 LA, 34 P) received all six injections. During the injection phase, three women withdrew from the study (2 LA, 1 P) and 16 women discontinued study product (10 LA, 6 P). Fourteen women (11 LA and 3 P) discontinued oral study product and did not enter the injection phase. Study product discontinuations were not significantly different between the two arms throughout. Of the product discontinuations in the injection phase, 8% in LA and 5% in P arm were due to adverse events (AEs), including one randomized to the P arm with prolonged QTc interval on EKG. The proportion of women who experienced Grade 2 or higher AEs during the injection phase as the primary outcome was not significantly different between the two arms [73.8%, 95% CI: (63.2%, 82.1%) for LA and 73.8%, 95% CI: (58.9%, 84.7%), p>0.99]. Transient Grade ≥2 liver abnormalities occurred in 14% of women in the LA arm compared with 12% in P arm. Three LA women (4%) developed Grade 3 injection site reactions compared with none in P arm. In participants who received at least 1 injection, the geometric mean of overall RPV trough concentrations (Ctrough) was 62.2 ng/mL. In participants who received all six injections, the geometric mean of CTrough through the injection phase and after the last injection were 72.8 ng/mL and 100.9 ng/mL, respectively. At week 52 (eight weeks after last injection), the geometric mean of RPV Ctrough was 75.0 ng/mL. At the last injection visit (Week 44), 80 % of women who answered acceptability questions strongly agreed that they would think about using- and 68% that they would definitely use a PrEP injectable in the future. INTERPRETATION RPV LA IM injections every eight weeks in African and US women were safe and acceptable. Overall, despite more injection site reactions and pain in the participants receiving RPV LA the injections were well tolerated. Data from this study support the further development of injectable PrEP agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L.G. Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - S. Li
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - S. Pathak
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | | | - N.M. Mgodi
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - M. Chirenje
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - H. Redinger
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - P. Williams
- Johnson and Johnson Global Public Health, Belgium
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
78
|
First Impressions Matter: How Initial Worries Influence Adherence to the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 81:304-310. [PMID: 30844995 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In MTN-020/ASPIRE, a dapivirine vaginal ring effectiveness trial in sub-Saharan Africa, we assessed whether worries about ring use changed over time and were associated with adherence. METHODS Participants (N = 2585) were surveyed at baseline and follow-up about worries regarding daily ring use. First, they answered a question about general worries and then responded to 15 items covering specific worries. From a nested qualitative component (N = 214), we extracted themes related to ring worries and adherence. Seven months into the trial, aggregate adherence data were shared with study sites as part of an intervention that included counseling and social support. Nonadherence was defined as dapivirine plasma levels of ≤95 pg/mL. Mixed-effect logistic regression models were used to assess changes in ring worries and nonadherence from baseline to month 3 and later. RESULTS Worry about wearing the ring decreased from 29% at baseline to 4% at month 3 (P < 0.001), while having a specific worry decreased from 47% to 16% (P < 0.001). Among those enrolled before intervention, 29% with baseline worries were nonadherent at month 3 (95% confidence interval: 19% to 39%) compared to 14% without worries (95% confidence interval: 9% to 19%; P = 0.005); the difference persisted through month 6. There was no difference in nonadherence by baseline worry for those enrolled after intervention (P = 0.40). In the qualitative subset, initial ring anxieties reportedly subsided with self-experimentation and practice and the beneficial influence of the intervention. CONCLUSIONS Although worries may be an initial deterrent to correct ring use, intervening early by leveraging social influences from peers and clinicians should facilitate successful adoption and correct ring use.
Collapse
|
79
|
Young Women's Stated Preferences for Biomedical HIV Prevention: Results of a Discrete Choice Experiment in Kenya and South Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 80:394-403. [PMID: 30633040 PMCID: PMC6410963 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Background: Integrating end-user perspectives into the design of new biomedical HIV prevention products is recognized as vital to informing the product development pipeline. Setting: Kisumu, Kenya; and Soshanguve, South Africa. Methods: We conducted a discrete choice experiment survey with 536 women aged 18–30 years to assess preferences for hypothetical HIV prevention products characterized by the attributes of efficacy, pregnancy prevention, delivery form, dosing frequency, and side effects. Participants included product-experienced women from Tablet, Ring, Injection as Options TRIO, a cross-over clinical study evaluating 3 placebo delivery forms (oral tablets, vaginal rings, and injections), and a product-naive sample recruited from the same communities. Analyses used random parameters logit and latent class models. Results: HIV prevention efficacy was a strong determinant of stated choice overall; however, in South Africa, delivery form was just as important, with an injection every 2–3 months most preferred and a daily oral tablet least preferred. In Kenya, product-experienced women preferred monthly injections and least preferred a monthly ring. Respondents indicated a preference for multipurpose prevention technologies that combine HIV and pregnancy protection. Latent class analyses confirmed these findings and delineated heterogeneity in preferences across subgroups defined by age, past experience with the delivery forms, and education. Conclusions: Despite an overall preference for products with high efficacy, we identified attributes salient to future uptake and use of HIV prevention products. Preferences for injectable products underscored interest in this pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery form. Likewise, the multipurpose prevention technology feature was valued in both Kenya and South Africa and most influenced interest in vaginal rings.
Collapse
|
80
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low adherence can undermine the efficacy of daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Mental health conditions, particularly depression, could be associated with low PrEP adherence, especially for women. SETTING We analyzed data from 1013 Kenyan and Ugandan HIV-uninfected participants in the Partners Demonstration Project, an open-label study of PrEP delivered to HIV-uninfected members of serodiscordant couples. METHODS Participants completed quarterly visits over 2 years and were encouraged to use PrEP until their partners living with HIV had ≥6 months of antiretroviral therapy use (when viral suppression was expected). PrEP adherence was measured daily with electronic medication event monitoring system caps and dichotomized into low (<80% of expected bottle openings) and high adherence. Depression was assessed annually using the 16-item Hopkins Symptom Checklist screening tool; scores >1.75 indicate "probable depression." The association between probable depression and PrEP adherence was assessed separately for men and women using generalized estimating equations and marginal structural models. RESULTS At enrollment, 39 (11.7% of 334) women and 64 (9.4% of 679) men reported symptoms indicating probable depression, and these proportions decreased during follow-up (P < 0.001 for women and men). Probable depression was significantly associated with low PrEP adherence among women (adjusted risk ratio = 1.77; 95% confidence interval: 1.14 to 2.77; P = 0.01); there was no association between depression and adherence among men (P = 0.50). Marginal structural models and sensitivity analyses confirmed these findings. CONCLUSIONS Depression was relatively uncommon in this population and was an independent risk factor for low PrEP adherence among women. For PrEP programs targeting African women, integration of depression screening may improve PrEP effectiveness.
Collapse
|
81
|
Tolley EE, Li S, Zangeneh SZ, Atujuna M, Musara P, Justman J, Pathak S, Bekker L, Swaminathan S, Stanton J, Farrior J, Sista N. Acceptability of a long-acting injectable HIV prevention product among US and African women: findings from a phase 2 clinical Trial (HPTN 076). J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25408. [PMID: 31651098 PMCID: PMC6813716 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION High HIV incidence and low adherence to daily oral PrEP among women underscore the need for more acceptable and easier to use HIV prevention products. Global demand for injectable contraception suggests that new, long-acting, injectable formulations could meet this need. We examine acceptability of a long-acting injectable PrEP among HIV-uninfected women in Zimbabwe, South Africa and two United States phase 2 trial sites. METHODS Quantitative surveys were administered at the first, fourth and sixth injection visits. Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted after the sixth injection visit. We compared the acceptability of injectable product attributes, prevention preferences and future interest in injectable PrEP by site and arm and ran longitudinal ordinal logistic regression models to identify determinants of future interest in injectable PrEP. RESULTS Between April 2015 and February 2017, the trial enrolled 136 (100 African, 36 US) women with a median age of 31 years. Most participants (>75%) rated injectable attributes as very acceptable. While few reported rash or other side effects, 56% to 67% reported injection pain, with nonsignificant differences over time and between arms. During FGDs, participants described initial fear of the injectable and variable experiences with pain. Most US and African participants preferred injectable PrEP to daily oral pills (56% to 96% vs. 4% to 25%). Future interest in using injectable PrEP was associated with acceptability of product attributes and was higher in African than US sites. In FGDs, participants described multiple reasons for trial participation, including a combination of monetary, health-related and altruistic motivations. While associated with future interest in use in univariate models, neither altruistic nor personal motivations remained significant in the multivariate model. CONCLUSIONS This study found that long-acting injectable PrEP is acceptable among African and US women experiencing product use. Acceptability of product attributes better predicted future interest in injectable use than experience of pain. This is reassuring as a single-dose regimen of a different product has advanced to phase 3 trials. Finally, the study suggests that future demand for an injectable PrEP by women may be greater in African than US settings, where the risk of HIV is highest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sue Li
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease DivisionFred HutchSeattleWAUSA
| | | | | | | | | | - Subash Pathak
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease DivisionFred HutchSeattleWAUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
82
|
Ojeda VD, Amico KR, Hughes JP, Wilson E, Li M, Holtz TH, Chitwarakorn A, Grant RM, Dye B, Bekker LG, Mannheimer S, Marzinke M, Hendrix CW. Low Disclosure of PrEP Nonadherence and HIV-Risk Behaviors Associated With Poor HIV PrEP Adherence in the HPTN 067/ADAPT Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 82:34-40. [PMID: 31169769 PMCID: PMC6698708 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We evaluated the relationship between 2 types of social relationships, ie, (1) external support for use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and related study supplies and (2) participants' disclosure of PrEP use and condom use and HIV PrEP adherence among daily-dosing regimen participants in HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 067, an open-label trial of oral tenofovir (TFV) disoproxil fumarate (TDF) 300 mg/emtricitabine (FTC) 200 mg. METHODS Using HPTN 067 survey data, we developed scales examining (1) Low Perceived External Support for PrEP: low perceived support by others for PrEP use or perceived negative reactions to the pill case (scoring ranges from 0 to 2) and (2) Participant-Staff Disclosure Challenges Scale, which identifies challenges to sharing nonuse of PrEP or condoms to study staff (scoring ranges from 0 to 4); these scales are the primary independent variables. Adherence, the dependent variable, was determined using log-transformed plasma TFV concentrations. generalized estimating equation (GEE) linear regression was used to assess the association between both scales and adherence. RESULTS Participants (n = 161) included HIV-uninfected women in South Africa, and men who have sex with men and transgender women, in Thailand and the United States. In multivariable analyses, higher scores in the Participant-Staff Disclosure Challenges Scale were significantly associated with lower PrEP adherence [exp(β) = 0.62, 95% CI: (0.46 to 0.84); P = 0.002] as were increased days since the last PrEP dose [exp(β) = 0.73, 95% CI: (0.65 to 0.83); P ≤ 0.001]. CONCLUSIONS Given the association with adherence, study staff-participant interactions and participants' disclosure of PrEP challenges may be worthwhile intervention targets for improving PrEP adherence in confirmatory studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria D. Ojeda
- Department of Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine, La Jolla,
California, United States
| | - K. Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education,
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - James P. Hughes
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington,
Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Ethan Wilson
- Statistical Center for AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred
Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, USA
| | - Maoji Li
- Statistical Center for AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred
Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, USA
| | - Timothy H. Holtz
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health – U.S. Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | | | - Robert M. Grant
- Gladstone Institutes, University of California, San
Francisco, California, United States
| | - Bonnie Dye
- HIV Prevention Trials Network, FHI 360, Durham, North
Carolina, United States
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town,
Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sharon Mannheimer
- Department of Medicine, Harlem Hospital Center, New
York, New York, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman
School of Public Health, New York, New York, United States
- ICAP, Columbia University Mailman School of Public
Health, New York, New York, United States
| | - Mark Marzinke
- Dept. of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of
Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Medicine (Clinical Pharmacology), Johns
Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Craig W. Hendrix
- Department of Medicine (Clinical Pharmacology), Johns
Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
83
|
Simoni JM, Beima-Sofie K, Amico KR, Hosek SG, Johnson MO, Mensch BS. Debrief Reports to Expedite the Impact of Qualitative Research: Do They Accurately Capture Data from In-depth Interviews? AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2185-2189. [PMID: 30666522 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-02387-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
"Debrief reports" (DRs) use structured forms to capture key concepts from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. They are completed by interviewers and rapidly disseminated to key team members to facilitate identification of potential problems with study procedures, recruitment, or participant engagement and to inform critical adjustments, which can be especially pertinent in intervention studies. Their reliability and validity have yet to be formally evaluated. To assess the accuracy of DRs in capturing key content, raters analyzed a random sub-sample of 20 pairs of de-identified transcripts and their linked DRs from the VOICE-D trial. Analyses generally supported the accuracy of DRs; however, pertinent information from transcripts was occasionally missed or recorded with discrepancies or lack of detail. Longer transcripts and DR sections describing complex topic areas were more likely to involve discrepancies. Recommendations are offered for further research and optimizing the use of DRs.
Collapse
|
84
|
Eakle R, Weatherburn P, Bourne A. Understanding user perspectives of and preferences for oral PrEP for HIV prevention in the context of intervention scale-up: a synthesis of evidence from sub-Saharan Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 4:e25306. [PMID: 31328429 PMCID: PMC6643067 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention has been proven to significantly reduce new HIV infections yet scale-up has been slow. As contexts continue to adjust to make space for PrEP, it is crucial to understand the perspectives and experiences of potential end-users. In order to inform PrEP and demand creation interventions, this paper examines personal perspectives on adopting and using PrEP among HIV at-risk populations in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Using the principles of a scoping review in July 2018, we explored the extent, range, and nature of published literature regarding PrEP uptake and use among; men who have sex with men, HIV serodiscordant couples, adolescent girls and young women, pregnant and breastfeeding women, women partners of migrant workers; and people who use drugs. Steps included: identification of the research question; identification of relevant studies; study selection; charting the data; and collation - summarizing and reporting results. PubMed and PsycInfo were searched for papers relating to PrEP uptake and use in sub-Saharan Africa. Resulting papers were reviewed with data extracted and compiled in Excel for analysis. A broad content analysis was conducted and organized into high-level themes. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Thirty-five papers were included in this review. There was little opposition in general to oral PrEP; however, there were significant nuances in its broader acceptability, applicability, and usability. We identified five themes within which these are discussed. These relate to balancing complexities of personal empowerment and stigma; navigating complex risk environments; influences of relationships and partners; efficacy and side effects; and practicalities of use. This body of research suggests that while product attributes and the logistics of PrEP delivery and use are important topics, it is vital to consider stigma, the interactions of PrEP use with relationships, and the need for broader understanding of ARVs for prevention versus treatment. CONCLUSIONS Planning for, programming and promoting the adoption of oral PrEP necessitates a deeper understanding of end-user priorities in order to ensure successful interventions. This review illustrates the nuances facilitating or deterring PrEP use that may affect the larger effort of PrEP scale-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Eakle
- Department of Global Health and DevelopmentLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Peter Weatherburn
- Sigma ResearchDepartment of Public Health, Environments and SocietyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Adam Bourne
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health & SocietyLa Trobe UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
85
|
Integrated Next Step Counseling (iNSC) for Sexual Health and PrEP Use Among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men: Implementation and Observations from ATN110/113. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:1812-1823. [PMID: 30315429 PMCID: PMC6570673 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2291-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of HIV infection among young men who have sex with men is a critical part of the HIV prevention landscape in the US. Given the unique challenges and resources of young MSM negotiating safer sex practices, including PrEP, counseling and supportive discussions to optimize both PrEP use and sexual health protection more generally may facilitate reaching HIV prevention goals. Within the context of a large, open-label PrEP study (ATN110/113), support for sexual health promotion and PrEP use was provided through use of integrated Next Step Counseling (iNSC) as part of study visits. We detail iNSC and, using session documentation collected throughout this study, we characterize iNSC implementation and the content generated from these discussions. We detail features of iNSC, training of counselors and the implementation of iNSC in a multi-site PrEP study with young MSM in the US. Case report forms completed by iNSC counselors at study visits at weeks 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 were evaluated. Implementation of each intervention step for each discussion is summarized at and across timepoints, as well as features of specific steps (e.g., kinds of facilitators and barriers). Implementation differences by group (e.g., race/ethnicity, age) were examined. iNSC case report forms from 1000 sessions involving 178 unique participants ages 15–22 from sessions conducted between 2013 and 2015 were reviewed. High fidelity to iNSC steps in terms of inclusion in sessions was reported; 98–100% of sessions included critical steps for sexual health protection discussions and 96–98% for PrEP use discussions. The vast majority of sessions appeared to flow in line with iNSC’s emphasis on exploration and open discussion prior to considering specific needs and related strategies. Nearly three-quarters of sessions noted ‘commitment to staying negative’ as a motivator towards sexual health protection (more commonly reported by those identifying as White), while ‘assuming partner is negative’ was the most common challenge (less common for the older cohort), and ‘having access’ to a sexual health protection tool or strategy (besides PrEP) was the most common “need” (more common for those identifying as White or Latino). Carrying dose(s) to have them on-hand when needed was the most common PrEP adherence facilitator, drug and alcohol use was the most common challenge noted, and access to a dose when needed was the most common “need” (more common for participants self-identified as White). iNSC was implemented consistently throughout ATN110/113, and patient-centered discussions about sexual health protection and PrEP-use appeared feasible to incorporate into clinical care visits.
Collapse
|
86
|
Chemnasiri T, Varangrat A, Amico KR, Chitwarakorn A, Dye BJ, Grant RM, Holtz TH. Facilitators and barriers affecting PrEP adherence among Thai men who have sex with men (MSM) in the HPTN 067/ADAPT Study. AIDS Care 2019; 32:249-254. [PMID: 31159584 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1623374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The HPTN 067/ADAPT Study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, patterns of adherence and coverage for three randomly assigned oral FTC/TDF pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) dosing regimens to prevent HIV infection. Using qualitative methods, we explored facilitators and barriers among a subset of men who have sex with men (MSM) participants in Bangkok, Thailand. Between August 2013 and March 2014, 32 HPTN 067/ADAPT participants joined in 6 focus group discussions, and 6 attended key informant interviews. Facilitators of PrEP adherence included use of strategies to have PrEP available when needed, simplicity in regimen requirements with recognition that more complex regimens may take some time to master, ability to plan for sex, receipt of social and technology support, ability to use a PrEP regimen that best matches to one's own patterns of sex, and experiences with PrEP as a part of health and well-being. Challenges to PrEP adherence included perceptions of no or low HIV risk, difficulties following regimens when intoxicated, concerns about side effects, experience of HIV stigma, and affordability of PrEP outside of study context influencing uptake and use in the community. Preferences for regimens varied, suggesting that multiple PrEP effective regimen options should be available to fit those with different needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tareerat Chemnasiri
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health - U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Varangrat
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health - U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - K Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Robert M Grant
- Gladstone Institutes, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Timothy H Holtz
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health - U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand.,Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
87
|
Vazquez L, Moll AP, Kacin A, Ndlovu NE, Shenoi SV. Perceptions of HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis Among Young Pregnant Women from Rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2019; 33:214-219. [PMID: 31067125 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2018.0242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Young sub-Saharan women are at particularly high risk of HIV acquisition during pregnancy and the postpartum period and would potentially benefit from preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). From June to August 2016, we interviewed 187 HIV negative pregnant women 18-24 years old in Tugela Ferry, Kwazulu-Natal province, a rural and among the poorest subdistricts in South Africa. Demographic data, HIV and PrEP knowledge, HIV risk, and readiness for oral tenofovir-based PrEP were collected using an information-motivation-behavior model-formatted instrument. Mean age was 20.3 years, 179 (95.7%) were unemployed, and 137 (73.3%) reported sex with one partner in the last month. Most were concerned that their sexual partner (95.2%) potentially had HIV or had other sexual partners in the last month (36.4%). Despite this, only 7 (3.7%) women reported that condoms had been used consistently during sex; most (97.3%) felt powerless to negotiate condom use with their partner. There was widespread interest in taking PrEP (97.3%), and most women (>97%) reported possessing the skills to take pills regularly, would commit to monthly visits, and were motivated to remain HIV negative to take care of their families. Young pregnant rural South African women are cognizant of their HIV risk and interested in prevention. Impending motherhood may portend increased interest in HIV prevention. We identified three potential obstacles to successful PrEP rollout among young pregnant women: hesitation about PrEP effectiveness (46%), perceived HIV stigma (53.5%), and risk compensation through decreased condom use (9.6%). Comparative studies of motivations, skills, and rates of initiation and adherence among pregnant and nonpregnant women are needed to inform optimal implementation efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laia Vazquez
- Bridgeport Hospital Internal Medicine, Bridgeport, Connecticut
| | | | - Alexa Kacin
- Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Sheela V. Shenoi
- AIDS Program, Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| |
Collapse
|
88
|
Eakle R, Bothma R, Bourne A, Gumede S, Motsosi K, Rees H. "I am still negative": Female sex workers' perspectives on uptake and use of daily pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention in South Africa. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212271. [PMID: 30964874 PMCID: PMC6456175 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Women remain highly vulnerable to HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa, with female sex workers (FSWs) facing some of the highest rates of HIV. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has the potential to reduce new infections among populations at highest risk and end-user perspectives of actual use in ‘real-world’ settings are critical to informing PrEP implementation. This paper presents findings from serial in-depth interviews (IDIs) conducted with FSW participants during the course of the Treatment And Prevention for Sex workers (TAPS) Demonstration Project in South Africa, exploring the lived experiences and perceptions of taking up and using PrEP. This research provides insight into risks and responsibilities facing FSWs perceived as prominent drivers in taking up and using PrEP, how PrEP was adopted to mitigate risk or ameliorate realities, and the characteristics of PrEP most valued, all of which are critical to consider in scale-up. Overall, distrust in the existence and/or efficacy of PrEP affected the motivation of women to come to the clinic and to maintain use. As one of the first reports of PrEP use among FSWs outside of a clinical trial setting, this research shows that it will be important to ensure accurate, relevant, and widespread messaging in communities to generate demand and support for PrEP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Eakle
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Rutendo Bothma
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Adam Bourne
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health & Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sanele Gumede
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Keneilwe Motsosi
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Helen Rees
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
89
|
Katz AWK, Mensch BS, Woeber K, Musara P, Etima J, van der Straten A. Understanding women's motivations to participate in MTN-003/VOICE, a phase 2b HIV prevention trial with low adherence. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2019; 19:18. [PMID: 30683103 PMCID: PMC6347781 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-019-0713-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In biomedical prevention trials, correct and consistent use of the investigational product is crucial to determine efficacy. Product adherence in VOICE, a phase 2B randomized trial of a vaginal gel and oral tablets for HIV prevention, was low (~ 34%), yet self-reported adherence and retention was high (> 90%). This analysis from VOICE-D, a post-trial qualitative ancillary study, explores motivations to participate in VOICE, and possible sources of misalignment between the stated priorities of the trial and the participants. METHODS VOICE-D enrolled 171 former VOICE participants to investigate, among other things, reasons for joining and remaining in the trial. Local language in-depth interviews and focus groups were transcribed and translated into English and coded and analyzed using NVivo. Data on motivation to join obtained from a VOICE termination visit survey of 106 participants were also analyzed to corroborate the VOICE-D findings. RESULTS Participants primarily participated for personal health benefits (e.g. free healthcare and HIV testing) and reported remaining enrolled from a sense of commitment to the trial. Altruistic motivations were the most commonly stated motivation on the termination visit survey; qualitatively, many of those stating altruistic reasons also desired personal health benefits. Joining for financial reimbursement was not commonly mentioned. Social networks influenced recruitment and spread therapeutic misconception. CONCLUSIONS Women's participation for personal health benefits highlighted their desire to monitor their HIV risk and overall health. Helping participants view use of investigational products as improving social capital and reminding participants of their study responsibilities may improve trial outcomes. Understanding the reasons for participating in studies will help to ensure alignment between priorities of researchers and participants. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02358616 ; Posted February 9, 2015, retrospectively registered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ariana W K Katz
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 351 California St, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA, 94104, USA.
| | | | - Kubashni Woeber
- South African Medical Research Council, HIV Prevention Research Unit, Durban, South Africa
| | - Petina Musara
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research Centre (UZCHS-CTRC), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ariane van der Straten
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 351 California St, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA, 94104, USA.,Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
90
|
Nakku‐Joloba E, Pisarski EE, Wyatt MA, Muwonge TR, Asiimwe S, Celum CL, Baeten JM, Katabira ET, Ware NC. Beyond HIV prevention: everyday life priorities and demand for PrEP among Ugandan HIV serodiscordant couples. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25225. [PMID: 30657642 PMCID: PMC6338102 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection is being rolled out in Africa. The uptake of PrEP to date has varied across populations and locations. We seek to understand the drivers of demand for PrEP through analysis of qualitative data collected in conjunction with a PrEP demonstration project involving East African HIV serodiscordant couples. Our goal was to inform demand creation by understanding what PrEP means - beyond HIV prevention - for the lives of users. METHODS The Partners Demonstration Project evaluated an integrated strategy of PrEP and antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivery in which time-limited PrEP served as a "bridge" to long-term ART. Uninfected partners in HIV serodiscordant couples were offered PrEP at baseline and encouraged to discontinue once infected partners had taken ART for six months. We conducted 274 open-ended interviews with 93 couples at two Ugandan research sites. Interviews took place one month after enrolment and at later points in the follow-up period. Topics included are as follows: (1) discovery of serodiscordance; (2) decisions to accept/decline PrEP and/or ART; (3) PrEP and ART initiation; (4) experiences of using PrEP and ART; (5) PrEP discontinuation; (6) impact of PrEP and ART on the partnered relationship. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. We used an inductive, content analytic approach to characterize meanings of PrEP stemming from its effectiveness for HIV prevention. Relevant content was represented as descriptive categories. RESULTS Discovery of HIV serodiscordance resulted in fear of HIV transmission for couples, which led to loss of sexual intimacy in committed relationships, and to abandonment of plans for children. As a result, partners became alienated from each other. PrEP countered the threat to the relationship by reducing fear and reinstating hopes of having children together. Condom use worked against the re-establishment of intimacy and closeness. By increasing couples' sense of protection against HIV infection and raising the prospect of a return to "live sex" (sex without condoms), PrEP was perceived by couples as solving the problem of serodiscordance and preserving committed relationships. CONCLUSIONS The most effective demand creation strategies for PrEP may be those that address the everyday life priorities of potential users in addition to HIV prevention. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER NCT02775929.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edith Nakku‐Joloba
- Department of Epidemiology and BiostatisticsMakerere University College of Health SciencesKampalaUganda
- STD Clinic/Ward 12Mulago HospitalKampalaUganda
| | - Emily E Pisarski
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Monique A Wyatt
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Harvard GlobalCambridgeMAUSA
| | | | | | - Connie L Celum
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and EpidemiologySchool of Medicine and School of Public HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and EpidemiologySchool of Medicine and School of Public HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | | | - Norma C Ware
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Department of MedicineBrigham & Women's HospitalBostonMAUSA
| |
Collapse
|
91
|
The Role of Social Relationships in PrEP Uptake and Use Among Transgender Women and Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:3673-3680. [PMID: 29754268 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2151-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Qualitative studies suggest that social relationships play an important role in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use, but there have been few quantitative assessments of the role of social relationships in PrEP uptake or adherence. We examined the association between disclosure of study participation or LGBT identity and PrEP use in the 1603 HIV-negative participants enrolled in the iPrEx OLE study. We also evaluated the association between LGBT social group involvement and PrEP use. Study participation disclosure to parents and LGBT identity disclosure to anyone in a participant's social network were associated with greater PrEP uptake. Study participation disclosure to partners was associated with higher probability of having protective PrEP drug concentrations compared [risk difference 0.15 95% CI (0.01, 0.30)]. For each additional type of LGBT organization a participant was involved in, the probability of PrEP uptake and having protective drug concentrations increased by 0.04 [95% CI (0.03, 0.06)] and 0.04 (95% CI (0.02, 0.07)] respectively. Overall, social context was associated with PrEP use in iPrEx OLE, and should be taken into consideration when designing future PrEP implementation programs.
Collapse
|
92
|
Pyra M, Brown ER, Haberer JE, Heffron R, Celum C, Bukusi EA, Asiimwe S, Katabira E, Mugo NR, Baeten JM. Patterns of Oral PrEP Adherence and HIV Risk Among Eastern African Women in HIV Serodiscordant Partnerships. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:3718-3725. [PMID: 30006791 PMCID: PMC6330257 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2221-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Understanding how women use PrEP is important for developing successful implementation programs. We hypothesized there are distinct patterns of adherence, related to HIV risk and other factors. We identified patterns of PrEP adherence and HIV risk behavior over the first 6 months of PrEP use, using data from 233 HIV-uninfected women in high-risk serodiscordant couples in a demonstration project in Kenya & Uganda. We modeled PrEP adherence, assessed by daily electronic monitoring, and HIV risk behavior using group-based trajectory models. We tested baseline covariates and risk behavior group as predictors of adherence patterns. There were four distinct adherence patterns: high steady adherence (55% of population), moderate steady (29%), late declining (8%), and early declining (9%). No baseline characteristics significantly differed between adherence patterns. Adherence patterns differed in average weekly doses (6.7 vs 5.4 vs 4.1 vs 1.5, respectively). Two risk behavior groups were identified: steady HIV risk (78% of population) and declining (22%). Compared to women with declining HIV risk behavior, women with steady risk behavior were more likely to have high steady adherence (61% vs 35%) and less likely to have early (6% vs 17%) or late (4% vs 19%) declining adherence. Women's use of PrEP was associated with concurrent HIV risk behavior; higher risk was associated with higher, sustained adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pyra
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 359927, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Brown
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Vaccine and Infection Diseases and Public Health Science Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, USA
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Massachusetts General Hospital Global Health, Boston, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 359927, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 359927, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 359927, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Elly Katabira
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 359927, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 359927, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
93
|
Pantelic M, Stegling C, Shackleton S, Restoy E. Power to participants: a call for person-centred HIV prevention services and research. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 21 Suppl 7:e25167. [PMID: 30334609 PMCID: PMC6193315 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While biomedical HIV prevention offers promise for preventing new HIV infections, access to and uptake of these technologies remain unacceptably low in some settings. New models for delivery of HIV prevention are clearly needed. This commentary highlights the potential of person-centred programming and research for increasing the cultural relevance, applicability and use of efficacious HIV prevention strategies. It calls for a shift in perspective within HIV prevention programmes and research, whereby people are recognized for their agency rather than assumed to be passive beneficiaries or research participants. DISCUSSION Person-centred HIV prevention reorientates power dynamics so that individuals (rather than interventions) are at the centre of the response. Respecting personal choice and agency - and understanding how these are shaped by the context in which people exercise these choices - are critical dimensions of the person-centred approach. Community-based participatory research should be employed to inform and evaluate person-centred HIV prevention. We argue that community-based participatory research is an orientation rather than a method, meaning that it can be integrated within a range of research methods including randomized controlled trials. But embracing community-based participatory approaches in HIV prevention research requires a systemic shift in how this type of research is reported in high impact journals and in how research impact is conceived. Community-based organizations have a critical role to play in both person-centred HIV prevention and research. CONCLUSIONS HIV prevention is situated at the intersection of unprecedented opportunity and crisis. Person-centred approaches to HIV prevention and research shift power dynamics, and have the potential to ensure a more sustainable response with each individual actively participating in their own care and meaningfully contributing to the production of knowledge on HIV prevention. This approach taps into the resourcefulness, resilience and knowledge of the person and their communities, to strengthen research and programmes, making them more relevant, appropriate and effective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marija Pantelic
- International HIV/AIDS AllianceBrighton & HoveUnited Kingdom
- Department of Social Policy and InterventionUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | - Enrique Restoy
- International HIV/AIDS AllianceBrighton & HoveUnited Kingdom
- School of Global StudiesUniversity of SussexSussexUnited Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
94
|
Vincent KL, Moss JA, Marzinke MA, Hendrix CW, Anton PA, Pyles RB, Guthrie KM, Dawson L, Olive TJ, Butkyavichene I, Churchman SA, Cortez JM, Fanter R, Gunawardana M, Miller CS, Yang F, Rosen RK, Vargas SE, Baum MM. Safety and pharmacokinetics of single, dual, and triple antiretroviral drug formulations delivered by pod-intravaginal rings designed for HIV-1 prevention: A Phase I trial. PLoS Med 2018; 15:e1002655. [PMID: 30265679 PMCID: PMC6161852 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravaginal rings (IVRs) for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) theoretically overcome some adherence concerns associated with frequent dosing that can occur with oral or vaginal film/gel regimens. An innovative pod-IVR, composed of an elastomer scaffold that can hold up to 10 polymer-coated drug cores (or "pods"), is distinct from other IVR designs as drug release from each pod can be controlled independently. A pod-IVR has been developed for the delivery of tenofovir (TFV) disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in combination with emtricitabine (FTC), as daily oral TDF-FTC is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved regimen for HIV PrEP. A triple combination IVR building on this platform and delivering TDF-FTC along with the antiretroviral (ARV) agent maraviroc (MVC) also is under development. METHODOLOGY AND FINDINGS This pilot Phase I trial conducted between June 23, 2015, and July 15, 2016, evaluated the safety, pharmacokinetics (PKs), and acceptability of pod-IVRs delivering 3 different ARV regimens: 1) TDF only, 2) TDF-FTC, and 3) TDF-FTC-MVC over 7 d. The crossover, open-label portion of the trial (N = 6) consisted of 7 d of continuous TDF pod-IVR use, a wash-out phase, and 7 d of continuous TDF-FTC pod-IVR use. After a 3-mo pause to evaluate safety and PK of the TDF and TDF-FTC pod-IVRs, TDF-FTC-MVC pod-IVRs (N = 6) were evaluated over 7 d of continuous use. Safety was assessed by adverse events (AEs), colposcopy, and culture-independent analysis of the vaginal microbiome (VMB). Drug and drug metabolite concentrations in plasma, cervicovaginal fluids (CVFs), cervicovaginal lavages (CVLs), and vaginal tissue (VT) biopsies were determined via liquid chromatographic-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Perceptibility and acceptability were assessed by surveys and interviews. Median participant age was as follows: TDF/TDF-FTC group, 26 y (range 24-35 y), 2 White, 2 Hispanic, and 2 African American; TDF-FTC-MVC group, 24.5 y (range 21-41 y), 3 White, 1 Hispanic, and 2 African American. Reported acceptability was high for all 3 products, and pod-IVR use was confirmed by residual drug levels in used IVRs. There were no serious adverse events (SAEs) during the study. There were 26 AEs reported during TDF/TDF-FTC IVR use (itching, discharge, discomfort), with no differences between TDF alone or in combination with FTC observed. In the TDF-FTC-MVC IVR group, there were 12 AEs (itching, discharge, discomfort) during IVR use regardless of attribution to study product. No epithelial disruption/thinning was seen by colposcopy, and no systematic VMB shifts were observed. Median (IQR) tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) tissue concentrations of 303 (277-938) fmol/10(6) cells (TDF), 289 (110-603) fmol/10(6) cells (TDF-FTC), and 302 (177.1-823.8) fmol/10(6) cells (TDF-FTC-MVC) were sustained for 7 d, exceeding theoretical target concentrations for vaginal HIV prevention. The study's main limitations include the small sample size, short duration (7 d versus 28 d), and the lack of FTC triphosphate measurements in VT biopsies. CONCLUSIONS An innovative pod-IVR delivery device with 3 different formulations delivering different regimens of ARV drugs vaginally appeared to be safe and acceptable and provided drug concentrations in CVFs and tissues exceeding concentrations achieved by highly protective oral dosing, suggesting that efficacy for vaginal HIV PrEP is achievable. These results show that an alternate, more adherence-independent, longer-acting prevention device based on the only FDA-approved PrEP combination regimen can be advanced to safety and efficacy testing. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02431273.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen L. Vincent
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - John A. Moss
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Mark A. Marzinke
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Craig W. Hendrix
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Peter A. Anton
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
- Center for HIV Prevention Research, Division of Digestive Diseases and UCLA AIDS Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Richard B. Pyles
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Kate M. Guthrie
- The Centers for Behavioral & Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Lauren Dawson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Trevelyn J. Olive
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Irina Butkyavichene
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Scott A. Churchman
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - John M. Cortez
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Rob Fanter
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Manjula Gunawardana
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Christine S. Miller
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Flora Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| | - Rochelle K. Rosen
- The Centers for Behavioral & Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Sara E. Vargas
- The Centers for Behavioral & Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Marc M. Baum
- Department of Chemistry, Oak Crest Institute of Science, Monrovia, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
95
|
Preference for injectable over oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in public-sector primary-care clinics in Swaziland. AIDS 2018; 32:1541-1542. [PMID: 29794832 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
: Long-acting injectable (LAI) HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may mitigate adherence challenges reported by young women in Southern Africa. We assessed preferences for PrEP in public-sector, primary care clinics in Swaziland. Among surveyed respondents, 75% (95% confidence interval = 65-83%) stated preference for LAI over oral PrEP; with no differences by sex, age, or sexual behavior (all P > 0.05). Notably, over 70% (95% confidence interval 58-82%) with current use of oral PrEP also stated preference for LAI PrEP.
Collapse
|
96
|
Ware NC, Pisarski EE, Nakku‐Joloba E, Wyatt MA, Muwonge TR, Turyameeba B, Asiimwe SB, Heffron RA, Baeten JM, Celum CL, Katabira ET. Integrated delivery of antiretroviral treatment and pre-exposure prophylaxis to HIV-1 serodiscordant couples in East Africa: a qualitative evaluation study in Uganda. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 21:e25113. [PMID: 29851436 PMCID: PMC5980503 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Serodiscordant couples are a priority population for delivery of new HIV prevention interventions in Africa. An integrated strategy of delivering time-limited, oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to uninfected partners in serodiscordant couples as a bridge to long-term antiretroviral treatment (ART) for infected partners has been implemented in East Africa, nearly eliminating new infections. We conducted a qualitative evaluation of the integrated strategy in Uganda, to better understand its success. METHODS Data collection consisted of 274 in-depth interviews with 93 participating couples, and 55 observations of clinical encounters between couples and healthcare providers. An inductive content analytic approach aimed at understanding and interpreting couples' experiences of the integrated strategy was used to examine the data. Analysis sought to characterize: (1) key aspects of services provided; (2) what the services meant to recipients; and (3) how couples managed the integrated strategy. Themes were identified in each domain, and represented as descriptive categories. Categories were grouped inductively into more general propositions based on shared content. Propositions were linked and interpreted to explain "why the integrated strategy worked." RESULTS Couples found "couples-focused" services provided through the integrated strategy strengthened partnered relationships threatened by the discovery of serodiscordance. They saw in services hope for "getting help" to stay together, turned joint visits to clinic into opportunities for mutual support, and experienced counselling as bringing them closer together. Couples adopted a "couples orientation" to the integrated strategy, considering the health of partners as they made decisions about initiating ART or accepting PrEP, and devising joint approaches to adherence. A couples orientation to services, grounded in strengthened partnerships, may have translated to greater success in using antiretrovirals to prevent HIV transmission. CONCLUSIONS Various strategies for delivering antiretrovirals for HIV prevention are being evaluated. Understanding how and why these strategies work will improve evaluation processes and strengthen implementation platforms. We highlight the role of service organization in shaping couples' experiences of and responses to ART and PrEP in the context of the integrated strategy. Organizing services to promote positive care experiences will strengthen delivery and contribute to positive outcomes as antiretrovirals for prevention are rolled out.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Norma C Ware
- Department of MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMAUSA
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Emily E Pisarski
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Edith Nakku‐Joloba
- Department of Epidemiology and BiostatisticsMakerere University College of Health SciencesKampalaUganda
- STD Clinic/Ward 12Mulago HospitalKampalaUganda
| | - Monique A Wyatt
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Harvard GlobalCambridgeMAUSA
| | | | | | | | - Renee A Heffron
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Connie L Celum
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | | |
Collapse
|
97
|
Tolley EE, Guthrie KM, Zissette S, Fava JL, Gill K, Louw CE, Kotze P, Reddy K, MacQueen K. Optimizing adherence in HIV prevention product trials: Development and psychometric evaluation of simple tools for screening and adherence counseling. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0195499. [PMID: 29649249 PMCID: PMC5896947 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0195499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Low adherence in recent HIV prevention clinical trials highlights the need to better understand, measure, and support product use within clinical trials. Conventional self-reported adherence instruments within HIV prevention trials, often relying on single-item questions, have proven ineffective. While objective adherence measures are desirable, none currently exist that apply to both active and placebo arms. Scales are composed of multiple items in the form of questions or statements that, when combined, measure a more complex construct that may not be directly observable. When psychometrically validated, such measures may better assess the multiple factors contributing to adherence/non-adherence. This study aimed to develop and psychometrically evaluate tools to screen and monitor trial participants’ adherence to HIV prevention products within the context of clinical trial research. Methods and findings Based on an extensive literature review and conceptual framework, we identified and refined 86 items assessing potential predictors of adherence and 48 items assessing adherence experience. A structured survey, including adherence items and other variables, was administered to former ASPIRE and Ring Study participants and similar non-trial participants (n = 709). We conducted exploratory factor analyses (EFA) to identify a reduced set of constructs and items that could be used at screening to predict potential adherence, and at follow-up to monitor and intervene on adherence. We examined associations with other variables to assess content and construct validity. The EFA of screener items resulted in a 6-factor solution with acceptable to very good internal reliability (α: .62-.84). Similar to our conceptual framework, factors represent trial-related commitment (Distrust of Research and Commitment to Research); alignment with trial requirements (Visit Adherence and Trial Incompatibility); Belief in Trial Benefits and Partner Disclosure. The EFA on monitoring items resulted in 4 Product-specific factors that represent Vaginal Ring Doubts, Vaginal Ring Benefits, Ring Removal, and Side Effects with good to very good internal reliability (α = .71-.82). Evidence of content and construct validity was found; relationship to social desirability bias was examined. Conclusions These scales are easy and inexpensive to administer, available in several languages, and are applicable regardless of randomization. Once validated prospectively, they could (1) screen for propensity to adhere, (2) target adherence support/counselling, and (3) complement biomarker measures in determining true efficacy of the experimental product.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Morrow Guthrie
- Centers for Behavioral & Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Deptartment of Psychiatry & Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Seth Zissette
- FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Joseph L. Fava
- Centers for Behavioral & Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | | | - Cheryl E. Louw
- Madibeng Centre for Research, Brits, South Africa
- University of Pretoria, Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hatfield, South Africa
| | - Philip Kotze
- Qhakaza Mbokodo Research Clinic, Ladysmith, South Africa
| | - Krishnaveni Reddy
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | |
Collapse
|
98
|
Atujuna M, Newman PA, Wallace M, Eluhu M, Rubincam C, Brown B, Bekker LG. Contexts of vulnerability and the acceptability of new biomedical HIV prevention technologies among key populations in South Africa: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0191251. [PMID: 29420549 PMCID: PMC5805172 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND New biomedical prevention technologies (NPTs) may contribute to substantially reducing incident HIV infections globally. We explored acceptability and preferences for NPTs among key and other vulnerable populations in two South African townships. METHODS We conducted six focus groups and 12 in-depth interviews with adolescents, and adult heterosexual men, women, and men who have sex with men (MSM) (n = 48), and eight in-depth interviews with key informant healthcare workers. The interview guide described pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), vaginal rings, rectal microbicides and HIV vaccines, and explored acceptability and product preferences. Focus groups and in-depth interviews (45-80 minutes) were conducted in Xhosa, audiotaped, and transcribed and translated into English. Data were coded and reviewed using framework analysis with NVivo software. RESULTS Overall, initial enthusiasm and willingness to use NPTs evolved into concerns about how particular NPTs might affect or require alterations in one's everyday lifestyle and practices. Different product preferences and motivations emerged by population based on similarity to existing practices and contexts of vulnerability. Adult women and female adolescents preferred a vaginal ring and HIV vaccine, motivated by longer duration of protection to mitigate feared repercussions from male partners, including threats to their marriage and safety, and a context of ubiquitous rape. Male adolescents preferred an HIV vaccine, seen as protection in serodiscordant relationships and convenient in obviating the HIV stigma and cost involved in buying condoms. Adult men preferred PrEP, given familiarity with oral medications and mistrust of injections, seen as enabling serodiscordant couples to have a child. MSM preferred a rectal microbicide given familiarity with gel-based lubricants, with concerns about duration of protection in the context of unplanned consensual sex and rape. CONCLUSIONS Biomedical interventions to prevent HIV transmission, rather than obviating social-structural factors that produce vulnerability, may be limited by these same factors. Implementation of NPTs should engage local communities to understand real-world constraints and strategise to deliver effective, multi-level combination prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Millicent Atujuna
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Health Sciences Faculty, Institute of Infectious Disease, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter A. Newman
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melissa Wallace
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Health Sciences Faculty, Institute of Infectious Disease, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Megan Eluhu
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Health Sciences Faculty, Institute of Infectious Disease, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Clara Rubincam
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ben Brown
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Health Sciences Faculty, Institute of Infectious Disease, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Health Sciences Faculty, Institute of Infectious Disease, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
99
|
van de Wijgert J. Working towards HIV prevention choices for women. Lancet HIV 2018; 5:e60-e61. [PMID: 28986030 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(17)30178-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Janneke van de Wijgert
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508, Netherlands; Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
100
|
Bekker LG, Roux S, Sebastien E, Yola N, Amico KR, Hughes JP, Marzinke MA, Hendrix CW, Anderson PL, Elharrar V, Stirratt M, Rooney JF, Piwowar-Manning E, Eshleman SH, McKinstry L, Li M, Dye BJ, Grant RM. Daily and non-daily pre-exposure prophylaxis in African women (HPTN 067/ADAPT Cape Town Trial): a randomised, open-label, phase 2 trial. Lancet HIV 2018; 5:e68-e78. [PMID: 28986029 PMCID: PMC6107917 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(17)30156-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relative feasibility and acceptability of daily versus non-daily dosing of oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among women are unknown. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of non-daily PrEP regimens in adult women. METHODS We did a randomised, open-label, phase 2 clinical trial (HPTN 067/ADAPT) of oral PrEP with emtricitabine plus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate at a research centre in Cape Town, South Africa. Participants were adult women (age ≥18 years) who received directly observed dosing once a week for 5 weeks followed by random assignment (1:1:1) at week 6 to one of three unblinded PrEP regimens for self-administered dosing over 24 weeks: daily; time-driven (twice a week plus a post-sex dose); or event-driven (one tablet both before and after sex). Primary outcomes were PrEP coverage (at least one dose within the 4 days before sex and one dose within 24 h after sex), pills needed or used to achieve regimen-specific adherence and coverage, and symptoms and side-effects. All analyses were by intention to treat. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01327651; the trial is completed and this report presents the final analysis. FINDINGS Between Sept 12, 2011, and Oct 3, 2012, 191 women were enrolled to the trial. 178 (93%) completed directly observed dosing and were randomly assigned one of the three PrEP regimens for the self-administered phase: 59 were allocated the daily regimen, 59 the time-driven regimen, and 60 the event-driven regimen. Median age of women was 26 years (IQR 21-37; range 18-52). In women allocated the daily regimen, 1459 (75%) of 1952 sex events were covered by PrEP, compared with 599 (56%) of 1074 sex events among those assigned the time-driven regimen (odds ratio [OR] 2·35, 95% CI 1·43-3·83; p=0·0007) and 798 (52%) of 1542 sex events among those allotted the event-driven regimen (2·76, 1·68-4·53; p<0·0001). Fewer pills were needed for complete adherence in women allocated non-daily regimens (vs daily regimen, relative mean 2·53 [95% CI 2·39-2·69] for the time-driven regimen and 4·16 [3·59-4·82] for the event-driven regimen; p<0·0001). Side-effects were uncommon. Eight HIV seroconversions occurred overall, with four documented during the self-administered phase (two with the time-driven regimen and two with the event-driven regimen). Adherence to the assigned regimen was 75% (7283 of 9652 doses taken) for women allocated the daily regimen compared with 65% for those assigned the time-driven regimen (2367 of 3616 doses taken; p=0·0028) and 53% for those allotted the event-driven regimen (1161 of 2203 doses taken; p<0·0001). When sex was reported in the previous week, PrEP drugs were detected (above the lower limits of quantification) more frequently in women assigned the daily regimen (73 [68%] of 107 samples) than in those allocated the time-driven regimen (42 [58%] of 72 samples) and the event-driven regimen (41 [41%] of 99 samples). INTERPRETATION Daily PrEP dosing resulted in higher coverage of sex events, increased adherence to the regimen, and augmented drug concentrations than did either time-driven or event-driven dosing. These findings support recommendations for daily use of PrEP with oral emtricitabine plus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate in women. FUNDING HIV Prevention Trials Network.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Surita Roux
- Synexus Clinical Research SA, Somerset West, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elaine Sebastien
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ntando Yola
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - K Rivet Amico
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - James P Hughes
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Mark A Marzinke
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Craig W Hendrix
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Peter L Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Vanessa Elharrar
- Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Michael Stirratt
- Division of AIDS Research, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | | | | | - Susan H Eshleman
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Maoji Li
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Robert M Grant
- Gladstone Institutes, University of California, and San Francisco AIDS Foundation, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|