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Zani B, Luckett B, Thurman TR. COVID-19 pandemic stressors, familial discord, and anxiety among adolescents living with HIV in South Africa: pathways to non-adherence. AIDS Care 2024; 36:137-144. [PMID: 38301123 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2308025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) have poorer adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART). This study investigates the interconnectivity of stressors induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, anxiety and family dynamics on adolescents' adherence to ART. A telephone survey was conducted among 196 South African ALHIV previously enrolled in support groups. Generalized structural equations modeling was used to understand how pandemic-related stressors affected ART adherence. Respondents reported experiencing life stressors since the implementation of COVID-19 restrictions, including doing worse at school (32%), loss of household income (44%) and less food available (38%). Forty-two percent reported greater verbal aggression from adults at home and 60% experienced anxiety. The structural equations model demonstrated a direct path from experiencing life stressors to increased verbal aggression from caregivers, which led to anxiety and ultimately, poorer ART adherence. Each stressor experienced increased the odds of experiencing verbal aggression by 51% (OR=1.51, 95%CI=1.14-2.00) which, in turn, increased the odds of having anxiety four-fold (OR=4.1, 95%C =2.16-7.76). Anxiety was associated with a 74% reduction in the odds of being fully ART adherent (OR=0.26, 95%CI=0.08-0.81). COVID-19-induced stressors exacerbated the mental and physical vulnerability of ALHIV. Findings elucidate how both discord at home and anxiety can result in poorer ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babalwa Zani
- Tulane International, Cape Town, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brian Luckett
- Tulane International, Cape Town, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tonya R Thurman
- Tulane International, Cape Town, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
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Gittings L, Ncube N, Ronan A, Chimatira I, Hatane L. Empowering and supporting frontline providers in the paediatric-adolescent HIV response: results from participatory priority-setting and group discussions in twenty-four sites in twelve high HIV-burden African countries. AIDS Care 2024; 36:60-75. [PMID: 38315800 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2308023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Children and adolescents living with HIV in Africa experience poor outcomes across the HIV cascade of care. Paediatric and adolescent-friendly services are crucial to their well-being, and recent years have seen a call for urgent service improvements. While frontline health workers are responsible for these services, less attention has been given to their contextual realities, and what constitutes an enabling service delivery environment. We engaged participatory priority-setting and group discussions across twenty-four sites in twelve high HIV-burden African countries in November 2022 with 801 frontline paediatric-adolescent providers. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and priority mapping. We constructed a socio-ecological model for supportive and empowering service delivery environments for frontline paediatric-adolescent HIV services. Individual-level themes related to well-being, self-care and mental health. Interpersonal themes included supportive supervision/mentorship, teamwork and acknowledgement. At the organisational level, resources, physical infrastructure and confidential spaces were included. The community level included feeling appreciated and positive stakeholder relationships. The structural level included funding, discriminatory SRHR policies and guidelines. Results provide insight into priorities, challenges and needs of frontline providers in the paediatric-adolescent HIV response. Improving the well-being of HIV-affected children and adolescents requires greater investment and attention to creating more caring, supportive environments for their frontline providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Gittings
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nokuzola Ncube
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Agnes Ronan
- Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa (PATA), Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Luann Hatane
- Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa (PATA), Cape Town, South Africa
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Nice J, Saltzman L, Thurman TR, Zani B. Latent class analysis of ART barriers among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Care 2024; 36:45-53. [PMID: 38422434 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2307389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This study examined adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in South Africa. Using survey data from 857 youth on ART, the study employed latent class analysis to identify subgroups based on self-reported reasons for missed ART doses. Three distinct classes emerged: the largest class (85%) occasionally forgot to take their medication or missed a dose because others were around, the second class (9%) missed doses only due to feeling sick, and the third class (6%) faced multiple barriers such as forgetting, feeling sick, worrying about side effects, or doubting the effectiveness of ART. Youth who reported multiple barriers to adherence had significantly lower adjusted odds (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.16-0.78) of reporting 90% past month adherence compared to those who occasionally forgot their medication. Additionally, contextual factors such as food security, being treated well at the clinic, and being accompanied to the clinic were associated with higher odds of adherence. The findings highlight the importance of considering co-occurring barriers to adherence and tailoring interventions accordingly. Addressing contextual factors, such as ensuring food security and providing supportive clinic environments, is also crucial for promoting optimal adherence among adolescents and young adults living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Nice
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- International Health and Sustainable Development department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Leia Saltzman
- Tulane University School of Social Work, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tonya R Thurman
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- International Health and Sustainable Development department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane International LLC, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Babalwa Zani
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane International LLC, Cape Town, South Africa
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Munyayi FK, van Wyk B. Experiences of support by unsuppressed adolescents living with HIV and their caregivers in Windhoek, Namibia: a qualitative study. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1380027. [PMID: 38939569 PMCID: PMC11208685 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1380027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) lag behind younger children and adults in the achievement of HIV care and treatment targets for HIV epidemic control. Treatment outcomes for adolescents may be influenced by their experiences with the support provided in HIV programs. We report on the experiences of virally unsuppressed adolescents and their caregivers with the current support in primary healthcare settings in Namibia. Methods A qualitative descriptive and exploratory study was conducted in 13 public primary healthcare facilities in Windhoek, Namibia. A total of 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with unsuppressed adolescents (n = 14) and their caregivers (n = 11) between August and September 2023. The audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, and uploaded into ATLAS.ti software, and subjected to thematic content analysis. Findings Three main support domains for the unsuppressed adolescents emerged from our analysis, namely: psychosocial, clinical and care, and socioeconomic support. The psychosocial support was delivered through peer support (teen clubs and treatment supporters) and enhanced adherence counselling mostly. The clinical and care support included implementing adolescent-friendly HIV services, differentiated service delivery approaches, and caregivers and healthcare worker care support for improved ART adherence, clinic attendance and continuous engagement in care. Socioeconomic support was provided for nutritional support, transport to access clinics, and school supplies, as well as income-generating projects. Conclusion Psychosocial, clinical and care, and socioeconomic support are key elements in addressing the needs of adolescents challenged with achieving viral suppression. Health systems may benefit from whole-of-society and whole-of-government approaches to meet the needs of ALHIV that are beyond the scope of health service delivery such as nutritional, education and socioeconomic influences on both the health and well-being of ALHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farai K. Munyayi
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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Zhou S, Cluver L, Knight L, Edun O, Sherman G, Toska E. Longitudinal Trajectories of Antiretroviral Treatment Adherence and Associations With Durable Viral Suppression Among Adolescents Living With HIV in South Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:171-179. [PMID: 38771754 PMCID: PMC11115368 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared with other age groups, adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) are estimated to have lower levels of adherence to antiretroviral treatment. Despite this, we lack evidence on adolescents' adherence patterns over time to inform the customization of intervention strategies. SETTING Eastern Cape province, South Africa. METHODS We analyzed data from a cohort of ALHIV (N = 1046, aged 10-19 years at baseline) recruited from 53 public health facilities. The cohort comprised 3 waves of data collected between 2014 and 2018 and routine viral load data from the National Institute for Communicable Disease data warehouse (2014-2019). Durable viral suppression was defined as having suppressed viral load (<1000 copies/mL) at ≥2 consecutive study waves. Group-based multitrajectory model was used to identify adherence trajectories using 5 indicators of self-reported adherence. Logistic regression modeling evaluated the associations between adherence trajectories and durable viral suppression. RESULTS Overall, 933 ALHIV (89.2%) completed all 3 study waves (55.1% female, mean age: 13.6 years at baseline). Four adherence trajectories were identified, namely, "consistent adherence" (49.8%), "low start and increasing" (20.8%), "gradually decreasing" (23.5%), and "low and decreasing" (5.9%). Adolescents experiencing inconsistent adherence trajectories were more likely to be older, live in rural areas, and have sexually acquired HIV. Compared with the consistent adherence trajectory, the odds of durable viral suppression were lower among adolescents in the low start and increasing (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.41 to 0.95), gradually decreasing (aOR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.59), and the low and decreasing adherence (aOR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.62) trajectories. CONCLUSIONS Adherence to antiretroviral treatment remains a challenge among ALHIV in South Africa. Identifying adolescents at risk of nonadherence, based on their adherence trajectories may inform the tailoring of adolescent-friendly support strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyanai Zhou
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa & Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom & Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucia Knight
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa & School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Olanrewaju Edun
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gayle Sherman
- Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute of Communicable Diseases, a division of the National Health Laboratory Service, South Africa & Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa & Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Gittings L, Hodes R, Kom P, Mbula S, Pantelic M. 'Remember there is that thing called confidentiality': experiences of institutional discrimination in the health system among adolescent boys and young men living with HIV in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024; 26:575-587. [PMID: 37480578 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2023.2232023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents and men are two populations that perform poorly within the HIV cascade of care, having worse AIDS-related health outcomes, and experiencing higher levels of HIV-related stigma. This paper explores institutional health system discrimination as experienced by adolescent boys with perinatally-acquired HIV, situating them within the social and gendered contexts of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Life history narratives (n = 36) and in-depth semi-structured interviews (n = 32) with adolescent boys living with HIV aged 13-22 were conducted in 2017-2018. In-depth semi-structured interviews with biomedical and traditional health practitioners (n = 14), analysis of health facility files (n = 41) and clinic observations were also conducted. Together, triangulated sources point to an incongruence between the complex needs of adoelscent boys and young men living with HIV and their experiences within the health system. Two institutional discrimination-related deterrents to retention in care were identified: (1) lack of confidentiality due to health facility layouts and practices that visibilised people living with HIV; and (2) mistreatment in the form of shouting. This article contributes to the limited literature on the experiences of young men within the HIV continuum of care, focusing on how stigma influences how young men experience and engage with the health sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Gittings
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rebecca Hodes
- Department of Anthropology, Archaeology and Social Development, Humanities Faculty, Pretoria University, South Africa
| | - Phakamani Kom
- Oxford Research South Africa, East London, South Africa
| | | | - Marija Pantelic
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Urrio RF, Lyatuu GW, Sando D, Mahande MJ, Philipo E, Naburi H, Lyaruu P, Kimonge A, Mayogu K, Simba B, Kibao AM, Msangi M, Zeebari Z, Biberfeld G, Ekström AM, Kilewo C, Kågesten AE. Long-term retention on antiretroviral treatment after enrolment in prevention of vertical HIV transmission services: a prospective cohort study in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26186. [PMID: 38332522 PMCID: PMC10853596 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To prevent vertical HIV transmission and ensure healthy mothers and children, pregnant women with HIV must remain on antiretroviral treatment (ART) for life. However, motivation to remain on ART may decline beyond the standard 2-year breastfeeding/postpartum period. We assessed attrition and retention in ART care among women with HIV up to 6 years since enrolment in vertical transmission prevention services in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. METHODS A prospective cohort of 22,631 pregnant women with HIV were enrolled in vertical transmission prevention services between January 2015 and December 2017 in routine healthcare settings and followed-up to July 2021. Kaplan-Meier was used to estimate time to ART attrition (died, stopped ART or was lost to follow-up [no show ≥90 days since scheduled appointment]) and the proportion retained in care. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) of ART attrition in relation to predictors. RESULTS Participants were followed-up to 6 years for a median of 3 years (IQR: 0.1-4). The overall ART attrition rate was 13.8 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 13.5-14.1), highest in the first year of enrolment at 27.1 (26.3-27.9), thereafter declined to 9.5 (8.9-10.1) in year 3 and 2.7 (2.1-3.5) in year 6. The proportion of women retained in care were 78%, 69%, 63%, 60%, 57% and 56% at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 years, respectively. ART attrition was higher in young women aged <20 years (aHR 1.63, 95% CI: 1.38-1.92) as compared to 30-39 year-olds and women enrolled late in the third versus first trimester (aHR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.16-1.44). In contrast, attrition was lower in older women ≥40 years, women who initiated ART before versus during the index pregnancy and women attending higher-level health facilities. CONCLUSIONS ART attrition among women with HIV remains highest in the first year of enrolment in vertical transmission prevention services and declines markedly following a transition to chronic HIV care. Targeted interventions to improve ART continuity among women with HIV during and beyond prevention of vertical transmission are vital to ending paediatric HIV and keeping women and children alive and healthy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roseline Faustine Urrio
- Management and Development for HealthDar es SalaamTanzania
- Department of Obstetrics and GynacologyMuhimbili University of Health and Allied SciencesDar es SalaamTanzania
| | - Goodluck Willey Lyatuu
- Management and Development for HealthDar es SalaamTanzania
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - David Sando
- Management and Development for HealthDar es SalaamTanzania
| | | | | | - Helga Naburi
- Department of Pediatric and Child HealthMuhimbili University of Health and Allied SciencesDar es SalaamTanzania
| | - Peter Lyaruu
- Management and Development for HealthDar es SalaamTanzania
| | - Amanda Kimonge
- Management and Development for HealthDar es SalaamTanzania
| | - Kasasi Mayogu
- Management and Development for HealthDar es SalaamTanzania
| | - Brenda Simba
- Management and Development for HealthDar es SalaamTanzania
| | | | | | - Zangin Zeebari
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Gunnel Biberfeld
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Anna Mia Ekström
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of Infectious Disease/VenhälsanSouth General HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Charles Kilewo
- Department of Obstetrics and GynacologyMuhimbili University of Health and Allied SciencesDar es SalaamTanzania
| | - Anna E. Kågesten
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
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Toska E, Zhou S, Laurenzi CA, Saal W, Rudgard W, Wittesaele C, Langwenya N, Jochim J, Banougnin BH, Gulaid L, Armstrong A, Sherman G, Edun O, Sherr L, Cluver L. Healthcare provisions associated with multiple HIV-related outcomes among adolescent girls and young women living with HIV in South Africa: a cross-sectional study. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26212. [PMID: 38332518 PMCID: PMC10853575 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) living with HIV experience poor HIV outcomes and high rates of unintended pregnancy. Little is known about which healthcare provisions can optimize their HIV-related outcomes, particularly among AGYW mothers. METHODS Eligible 12- to 24-year-old AGYW living with HIV from 61 health facilities in a South African district completed a survey in 2018-2019 (90% recruited). Analysing surveys and medical records from n = 774 participants, we investigated associations of multiple HIV-related outcomes (past-week adherence, consistent clinic attendance, uninterrupted treatment, no tuberculosis [TB] and viral suppression) with seven healthcare provisions: no antiretroviral therapy (ART) stockouts, kind and respectful providers, support groups, short travel time, short waiting time, confidentiality, and safe and affordable facilities. Further, we compared HIV-related outcomes and healthcare provisions between mothers (n = 336) and nulliparous participants (n = 438). Analyses used multivariable regression models, accounting for multiple outcomes. RESULTS HIV-related outcomes were poor, especially among mothers. In multivariable analyses, two healthcare provisions were "accelerators," associated with multiple improved outcomes, with similar results among mothers. Safe and affordable facilities, and kind and respectful staff were associated with higher predicted probabilities of HIV-related outcomes (p<0.001): past-week adherence (62% when neither accelerator was reported to 87% with both accelerators reported), clinic attendance (71%-89%), uninterrupted ART treatment (57%-85%), no TB symptoms (49%-70%) and viral suppression (60%-77%). CONCLUSIONS Accessible and adolescent-responsive healthcare is critical to improving HIV-related outcomes, reducing morbidity, mortality and onward HIV transmission among AGYW. Combining these provisions can maximize benefits, especially for AGYW mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science ResearchUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Department of Social Policy and InterventionUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science ResearchUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Division of Social and Behavioural SciencesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Christina A. Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Wylene Saal
- Centre for Social Science ResearchUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - William Rudgard
- Department of Social Policy and InterventionUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Camille Wittesaele
- Department of Infectious Disease EpidemiologyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | | | - Janina Jochim
- Department of Social Policy and InterventionUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | | | - Laurie Gulaid
- UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Office (UNICEF‐ESARO)NairobiKenya
| | - Alice Armstrong
- UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Office (UNICEF‐ESARO)NairobiKenya
| | - Gayle Sherman
- National Institute for Communicable DiseasesJohannesburgSouth Africa
- Department of Paediatrics and Child HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Olanrewaju Edun
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease AnalysisSchool of Public HealthImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Division of Social and Behavioural SciencesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
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Oryokot B, Kazibwe A, Oluka AI, Kagimu D, Bakashaba B, Ssentongo S, Mafabi T, Odoi C, Kawuba A, Miya Y, Etukoit BM, Mugisha K, Namusoke-Magongo E. "Swallowing these drugs every day, you get tired": a mixed-methods study to identify Barriers and facilitators to retention and HIV Viral Load suppression among the Adolescents living with HIV in TASO Mbale and TASO Soroti centers of excellence. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3863602. [PMID: 38313290 PMCID: PMC10836109 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3863602/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Background Adolescents aged 10-19, living with HIV (ALHIV) lag behind in attaining optimal viral load suppression (VLS) rates and retention in care, an important impediment to reaching epidemic control. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to both VLS and retention among in the sub-population who seek care from TASO Mbale and TASO Soroti centers of excellence, to facilitate adaptation of the operation triple zero in the setting. Methods We used a mixed methods approach, extracting secondary data on ALHIV who were active in care during April-June 2022 quarter to determine one year retention in care. Analysis was done in STATA Corp, 15.0. We used logistic regression to determine associated factors and adjusted odds ratio (aOR) to report level of predictability, using 95% confidence interval (CI) and P<0.05 for statistical significance. For qualitative component, purposive sampling of 59 respondents was done. Focused group discussions, key informant interviews, and in-depth interviews were used to collect data. Thematic content analysis was done using Atlas ti. Results There were 533 ALHIV, with 12-month retention rate of 95.9% and VLS rate of 74.9%. Predictors for good VLS included good adherence [aOR:95%CI 0.066(0.0115, 0.38) P=0.02], being on first line treatment [aOR:95%CI 0.242 (0.0873,0.6724) P=0.006]. For retention, they include being a school going [aOR:95%CI 0.148(0.024,0.9218) P=0.041], multi month dispensing aOR:95%CI 32.6287(5.1446,206.9404) P<0.001, OVC enrolment aOR:95%CI 0.2625(0.083, 0.83) P=0.023]. Meanwhile key barriers included: individual ones such as internal stigma, lack of transport and treatment/drug fatigue; facility-level such as prolonged waiting time and lack of social activities; community level include stigma and discrimination, inadequate social support and food shortage. In terms of facilitators, individual level ones include good adherence and knowledge of one's HIV status; facility-level such as provision of adolescent friendly services and community-level such as social support and decent nutrition. Conclusions VLS rate was sub-optimal mainly due to poor adherence. HIV programs could utilize the barriers and facilitators identified to improve VLS. Conversely, retention rate at one year was good, likely due to provision of adolescent friendly health services. ALHIV and their caregivers need to be empowered to sustain retention and improve VLS. Contributions to science By accentuating the barriers and facilitators to retention and VLS among the ALHIV, we ensure HIV programs continue to prioritize effective interventions and discard others as the epidemic evolves. To this, our findings strategically validate the effectiveness of provision of adolescent friendly services and client-centered care in attaining good retention rate.Secondly, being a mixed-methods study, complementarily adds value to the existing body of knowledge on barriers and facilitators while reminding programmers that VLS remains sub-optimal and more efforts are necessary.Finally, different stakeholders could use our findings to advocate for more resources to address some of the barriers such as food shortage, empowerment of ALHIV and caregivers and strengthening skilling programs for ALHIV, especially the out-of-school.
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Knight JM, Ward MK, Fernandez S, Genberg BL, Beach MC, Ladner RA, Trepka MJ. Perceptions and Current Practices in Patient-Centered Care: A Qualitative Study of Ryan White HIV Providers in South Florida. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2024; 23:23259582241244684. [PMID: 38651291 PMCID: PMC11036924 DOI: 10.1177/23259582241244684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Patient-centered care (PCC) improves HIV adherence and retention, though lack of consensus on its conceptualization and understanding how it is interpreted has hindered implementation. Methods: We recruited 20 HIV providers at Ryan White Programs in FL for in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis identified core consistencies pertaining to: 1) provider perceptions, 2) current practices promoting PCC. Results: Provider perceptions of PCC emerged under four domains: 1) holistic, 2) individualized care, 3) respect for comfort and security, and 4) patient engagement and partnership. PCC practices occurred at multiple levels: 1) individual psychosocial and logistical support, 2) interpersonal support within patient-provider relationships through respectful communication and active engagement, and 3) institutional practices including feedback mechanisms, service integration, patient convenience, and diverse staffing. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the central tenets of PCC as respectful, holistic, individualized, and engaging care. We offer an HIV-adapted framework of PCC as a multilevel construct to guide future intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M. Knight
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Melissa K. Ward
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- Research Center in Minority Institutions (RCMI), Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sofia Fernandez
- Research Center in Minority Institutions (RCMI), Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- School of Social Work, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Becky L. Genberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Mary Jo Trepka
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- Research Center in Minority Institutions (RCMI), Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
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Tendongfor N, Fokam J, Chenwi CA, Nwabo FLT, Nangmo A, Debimeh N, Moyo STN, Halle MP, Njom-Nlend AE, Ndombo PK, Ndjolo A. Determinants of survival of adolescents receiving antiretroviral therapy in the Centre Region of Cameroon: a multi-centered cohort-analysis. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:88. [PMID: 38098059 PMCID: PMC10722663 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00584-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In spite of the global decreasing mortality associated with HIV, adolescents living with HIV (ADLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa still experience about 50% mortality rate. We sought to evaluate survival rates and determinants of mortality amongst ADLHIV receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in urban and rural settings. METHODS A multi-centered, 10-year retrospective, cohort-study including ADLHIV on ART ≥ 6 months in the urban and rural settings of the Centre Region of Cameroon. Socio-demographic, clinical, biological, and therapeutic data were collected from files of ADLHIV. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival probability after ART initiation; the log rank test used to compare survival curves between groups of variables; and the Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify the determinants of mortality. RESULTS A total of 403 adolescents' records were retained; 340 (84%) were from the urban and 63 (16%) from the rural settings. The female to male ratio was 7:5; mean age (Standard deviation) was 14.1 (2.6) years; at baseline, 64.4% were at WHO clinical stages I/II, 34.9% had ≥ 500 CD4 cells/mm3, 91.1% were anemic, and the median [Inter Quartile Range] duration on ART was5.3 [0.5-16] years. The survival rate at 1, 5 and 10 years on ART was respectively 97.0%, 55.9% and 8.7%; with mean survival time of 5.8 years (95% CI 5.5-6.1). In bivariate analysis, living in the rural setting, non-disclosed HIV status, baseline CD4 count < 500 cells/mm3, not being exposed to nevirapine prophylaxis at birth and being horizontally infected were found to be the determinants of higher mortality with poor retention in care slightly associated with mortality. In multivariate analysis, living in rural settings, poor retention in care and anemia were independent predictors of mortality (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Although ADLHIV have good survival rate on ART after 1 year, we observe poor survival rates after 5 years and especially 10 years of treatment experience. Mitigating measures against poor survival should target those living in rural settings, anemic at baseline, or experiencing poor retention in care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph Fokam
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon.
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), PO Box 3077, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
| | - Collins Ambe Chenwi
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), PO Box 3077, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
| | - Fabrice Léo Tamhouo Nwabo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), PO Box 3077, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Armanda Nangmo
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), PO Box 3077, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Njume Debimeh
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), PO Box 3077, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Marie Patrice Halle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Douala General Hospital, Douala, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Science, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Anne-Esther Njom-Nlend
- Pediatric Department, National Social Welfare Centre, Essos Health Centre, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Higher Institute of Medical Technology, University of Douala, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Paul Koki Ndombo
- Mother and Child Centre, Chantal BIYA Foundation, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Alexis Ndjolo
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), PO Box 3077, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Laurenzi CA, Toska E, Tallarico R, Sherr L, Steventon Roberts KJ, Hansen M, Tolmay J, Jochim J, Ameyan W, Yates R. Key normative, legal, and policy considerations for supporting pregnant and postpartum adolescents in high HIV-burden settings: a critical analysis. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2023; 31:2249696. [PMID: 37712411 PMCID: PMC10506436 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2023.2249696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Rates of adolescent pregnancy within sub-Saharan Africa are increasing. Adolescent mothers ages 10-19 years face a distinct set of risks to their own and their children's health, compounded by many economic, social, and epidemiological challenges, such as living with HIV. In navigating this complex developmental period, many adolescent mothers face structural barriers impeding safe transitions to adulthood and motherhood. Drawing on existing literature and emerging data, we outline three normative, legal, and policy issues - violence and gender inequity, access to sexual and reproductive health services, and access to social and structural supports - which affect the health, wellbeing and development of adolescent mothers and their children. We also highlight emergent evidence about programming and policy changes that can better support adolescent mothers and their children. These key proposed responses include removing barriers to SRH and HIV service integration; ensuring implementation of return-to-school policies; and extending social protection systems to cater for adolescent mothers. Despite ongoing global crises and shifts in funding priorities, these normative, legal, and policy considerations remain critical to safeguard the health and wellbeing of adolescent mothers and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A. Laurenzi
- Senior Researcher, Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Associate Professor, Centre for Social Science Research, Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa; Co-director, Accelerate Hub, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa; Associate Professor, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Renata Tallarico
- Youth Team Lead and SYP Regional Coordinator, United Nations Population Fund, Eastern and Southern Regional Office, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Professor, Clinical and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J. Steventon Roberts
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Postgraduate Researcher, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maja Hansen
- Technical Advisor, Gender Equality, United Nations Population Fund, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Janke Tolmay
- Quantitative Research Assistant, Accelerate Hub, Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Janina Jochim
- Postdoctoral Research Officer, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Wole Ameyan
- Technical Officer, Adolescent HIV, Global HIV Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Yates
- Strategic Advocacy Lead, Accelerate Hub, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Laurenzi C, Operario D, Mutambo C, Mupakile E, Banda B, Ngakongwa F, Kilonzo R, Busakhwe C, Ronan A, Toska E. Lessons From Implementing Ask-Boost-Connect-Discuss, a Peer-Delivered Psychosocial Intervention for Young Mothers Living With HIV in Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2023; 11:e2300077. [PMID: 37903574 PMCID: PMC10615246 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-23-00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan Africa are at high risk of HIV, unintended pregnancy, and early motherhood. These intersecting risks can adversely affect their developmental trajectories and lifelong well-being. Because young mothers living with HIV in these settings experience high levels of stigma, shame, and isolation, tailored psychosocial intervention approaches for this group are critical yet unavailable. Enlisting young peer supporters may be a promising way to expand the reach of health services and enhance psychosocial well-being. To date, few peer-based interventions have targeted young mothers living with HIV. In 2019-2021, we codeveloped a peer-based, facility-embedded intervention package, Ask-Boost-Connect-Discuss (ABCD), with young peer supporters to address the psychosocial needs of young mothers living with HIV in Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. We then analyzed programmatic data from ABCD to assess the feasibility of using young peers to deliver psychosocial support. Data sources included post-intervention interviews, focus groups, and written feedback from multiple stakeholders (participants, peer supporters, their supervisors, and clinic-based mentors), which were analyzed thematically. We organized our findings according to Bowen et al.'s feasibility framework. Findings spoke to the acceptability, practicality, and integration of the ABCD program. We found that young peer supporters were seen as acceptable program implementers; able to adopt responsive, engaging, and nonjudgmental approaches; and supported through training, technical skills development, and supervision, alongside purposeful facility integration. Importantly, we also found evidence reflecting the roles of demand and adaptation in program delivery (i.e., how peers responded to emerging participant needs or pivoted in their approach based on shifting circumstances). We conclude that considerations of intervention feasibility and/or program fidelity should be attuned to the dynamic qualities of young peer supporters as implementers and should extend beyond standard modes of assessment to consider intervention codevelopment and implementation as an iterative and adaptive process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chipo Mutambo
- Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Chuma Busakhwe
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Agnes Ronan
- Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Bernays S, Lariat J, Cowan F, Senzanje B, Willis N, Nenguke ZM. "They test my blood to know how much blood is in my body": the untapped potential of promoting viral load literacy to support adherence and viral suppression among adolescents living with HIV. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26153. [PMID: 37880186 PMCID: PMC10600064 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Achieving sustained HIV viral suppression is a key strategy to optimize the health and wellbeing of those living with HIV. Sub-optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) in Southern Africa, due to a range of social and contextual factors, including poor mental health, has presented a substantial challenge to meeting targets aimed towards improving treatment outcomes and reducing transmission. With the increasing availability of viral load (VL) testing in Southern Africa, there is an opportunity to better understand the relationship between VL literacy, wellbeing and adherence among adolescents. METHODS We conducted qualitative interviews with 45 AYPLHIV aged 10-24 years in three districts (urban, peri-urban and rural) in Zimbabwe between March and August 2021. The sample was purposively selected to represent a range of experiences related to HIV status disclosure, gender, marital status and treatment experience. Separate workshops were conducted with 18 healthcare workers (HCWs) and 20 caregivers to better understand existing support mechanisms to AYPLHIV accessing ART. We used thematic analysis to examine adolescent VL literacy, treatment support networks, experiences of clinic interactions, VL testing procedures and barriers to adherence. RESULTS VL literacy was consistently under-developed among participants. Comprehension of phrases commonly heard during clinic visits, such as TND (target not detected) and "high" and "low" VL, were better understood by older participants. VL testing was predominantly understood as a clinical procedure that enables HCWs to monitor treatment adherence. Absent throughout the interviews were descriptions of how viral suppression improves health and quality of life, likely fosters wellbeing and enhances self-esteem, enables participation in education and social activities, and eliminates the risk of onward transmission. CONCLUSIONS It is imperative that we reconsider how routine VL monitoring is communicated to and understood by AYPLHIV. Reframing ART, including VL test results, in terms of the psychosocial benefits that viral suppression can generate is likely to be crucial to motivating AYPLHIV to maintain optimal treatment engagement and develop self-management approaches as they move into adulthood. Access to accurate information tailored to individual concerns and circumstances can support AYPLHIV to achieve wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bernays
- School of Public HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Department of Global Health and Development London School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Joni Lariat
- School of Public HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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Hémono R, Kelly NK, Fahey CA, Hassan K, Msasa J, Mfaume RS, Njau PF, Dow WH, McCoy SI. Financial incentives to improve re-engagement in HIV care: results from a randomized pilot study. AIDS Care 2023; 35:935-941. [PMID: 35187992 PMCID: PMC9388698 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2041164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of financial incentives to motivate re-engagement in HIV care in Shinyanga, Tanzania. METHODS Out-of-care people living with HIV (PLHIV) were identified from medical records in four clinics and home-based care providers (HBCs) from April 13, 2018 to March 3, 2020. Shinyanga Region residents, ≥18 years, who were disengaged from care were randomized 1:1 to a financial incentive (∼$10 USD) or the standard of care (SOC), stratified by site, and followed for 180 days. Primary outcomes were feasibility (located PLHIV who agreed to discuss the study), acceptability (enrollment among eligibles), and re-engagement in care (clinic visit within 90 days). RESULTS HBCs located 469/1,309 (35.8%) out-of-care PLHIV. Of these, 215 (45.8%) were preliminarily determined to be disengaged from care, 201 (93.5%) agreed to discuss the study, and 157 eligible (100%) enrolled. Within 90 days, 71 (85.5%) PLHIV in the incentive arm re-engaged in care vs. 58 (78.4%) in the SOC (Adjusted Risk Difference [ARD] = 0.08, 95% CI: -0.03, 0.19, p = 0.09). A higher proportion of incentivized PLHIV completed an additional (unincentivized) visit between 90-180 days (79.5% vs. 71.6%, ARD = 0.10, 95% CI: -0.03, 0.24, p = 0.13) and remained in care at 180 days (57.8% vs. 51.4%, ARD = 0.07, 95% CI: -0.09, 0.22, p = 0.40). CONCLUSIONS Short-term financial incentives are feasible, acceptable, and have the potential to encourage re-engagement in care, warranting further study of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Hémono
- Division of Epidemiology, University of California, Berkeley, USA
| | - Nicole K. Kelly
- Division of Epidemiology, University of California, Berkeley, USA
| | - Carolyn A. Fahey
- Division of Epidemiology, University of California, Berkeley, USA
| | - Kassim Hassan
- Health for a Prosperous Nation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Janeth Msasa
- Health for a Prosperous Nation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Rashid S. Mfaume
- Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Prosper F. Njau
- Health for a Prosperous Nation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - William H. Dow
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of California, Berkeley, USA
| | - Sandra I. McCoy
- Division of Epidemiology, University of California, Berkeley, USA
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Toska E, Zhou S, Chen-Charles J, Gittings L, Operario D, Cluver L. Factors Associated with Preferences for Long-Acting Injectable Antiretroviral Therapy Among Adolescents and Young People Living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2163-2175. [PMID: 36622486 PMCID: PMC9827015 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03949-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Long-acting injectable anti-retroviral therapy (LAART) may overcome barriers to long-term adherence and improve the survival of adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYLHIV). Research on the acceptability of LAART for this age-group is limited. We asked 953 AYLHIV about their preferred (theoretical) ART mode of delivery (pill, injectable, or other) in 2017-2018, before LAART was available or known to AYLHIV in South Africa. One in eight (12%) AYLHIV preferred LAART over single or multiple pill regimens. In multivariate analyses, six factors were associated with LAART preference: medication stock-outs (aOR = 2.56, 95% CI 1.40-4.68, p = 0.002), experiencing side-effects (aOR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.15-2.97, p = 0.012), pill-burden (aOR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.20-2.94, p = 0.006), past-year treatment changes (aOR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.06-2.51, p = 0.025), any HIV stigma (aOR = 2.22, 95% CI 1.39-3.53, p ≤ 0.001) and recent ART initiation (aOR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.09-3.74, p = 0.025). In marginal effects modelling, 66% of adolescents who experienced all factors were likely to prefer LAART, highlighting the potential high acceptability of LAART among adolescents and young people living with HIV struggling to adhere and have good HIV treatment outcomes. Adolescent boys who reported high ART pill burden were more likely to prefer LAART than their female peers in moderation analyses, suggesting that LAART may be particularly important to improve treatment outcomes among male AYLHIV as they become older. Adding LAART to existing treatment options for AYLHIV, particularly higher risk groups, would support AYLHIV to attain and sustain viral suppression-the third 95, and reduce their risk of AIDS-related mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Centre for Social Science Research, Leslie Social Sciences Building, University of Cape Town, 4.89, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa.
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jenny Chen-Charles
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lesley Gittings
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Don Operario
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, UK
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Oryokot B, Kazibwe A, Kagimu D, Oluka AI, Kato D, Miya Y, Etukoit MB, Namusoke-Magongo E. Improving retention and HIV viral load suppression among adolescents living with HIV in TASO Soroti and TASO Mbale centers of excellence using Operation Triple Zero model: a before and after study protocol. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:65. [PMID: 37308985 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00449-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retention in care and HIV viral load suppression remains sub-optimal among HIV positive adolescents in many settings including TASO Uganda, despite the implementation of interventions such as regimen optimization and community-based approaches like multi-month drug dispensing. To this end, the implementation of additional intervention is urgently required to address gaps in current programming which include inadequate centralization of the HIV positive adolescents and their caregivers in the designs. This study, thus, proposes to adapt and implement the Operation Triple Zero (OTZ) model in TASO Soroti and Mbale centers to improve both retention and viral load suppression among the adolescents living with HIV. METHODOLOGY A before and after study design is preferred, employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. To identify barriers and facilitators to retention and HIV viral load suppression among the HIV positive adolescents, secondary data, focused group discussions, and key informant interviews will be used to understand perspectives of the adolescents, their caregivers, and the health-workers. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) will help in designing the intervention, while Knowledge to Action (K2A) will support the adaptation process. To test the intervention, Reach, Effectiveness, Adaption, Implementation and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework will be used. A paired t-test will be used to compare means of retention and viral load suppression in the before and after study periods. DISCUSSION This study aims at adapting and implementing the OTZ model in TASO Soroti and Mbale Centers of Excellence (COEs) to attain optimal retention and HIV viral load suppression rates among the HIV positive adolescents in care. Uganda is yet to adapt the touted OTZ model and findings from this study will be important in providing the necessary lessons to inform a policy shift for potential scale up of the model. Furthermore, results of this study could provide additional evidence for the effectiveness of OTZ in attaining optimal HIV treatment outcomes among the adolescents living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonniface Oryokot
- The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) Uganda, Kampala, Uganda.
- University of Suffolk, Ipswich, UK.
| | - Andrew Kazibwe
- The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Kagimu
- The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Darlius Kato
- The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yunus Miya
- The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
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Nakimuli-Mpungu E, Wamala K, Nalugya JS, Nakanyike C, Iya J, Bakeera Kitaka S, Diana Namuli J, Akimana B, Nachega JB, Mills EJ, Seggane M. The effect of group support psychotherapy on adherence to anti-retroviral therapy and viral suppression among HIV positive young people: Study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 3:1011898. [PMID: 37089453 PMCID: PMC10115161 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1011898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
BackgroundSeveral studies have demonstrated an association between psychological risk factors and HIV disease progression. However, there is limited information on the use of psychological interventions to improve HIV treatment outcomes in young people living with HIV.ObjectiveThis pilot trial aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of group support psychotherapy in improving adherence to anti-retroviral therapy and viral suppression in young people living with HIV in Uganda.MethodsWe recruited 120 young people with HIV, aged 10–18 years, who had non-viral suppression 6 months after initiating first-line anti-retroviral therapy (ART) from community based HIV clinics in Kitgum district, northern Uganda. Participants were randomly assigned to receive GSP plus IAC (N = 60) or IAC alone (N = 60). Primary outcomes will be indicators of feasibility and acceptability as well as preliminary effectiveness of GSP in improving ART adherence and viral suppression analysed by intention to treat using cluster-adjusted t tests and permutation tests. Secondary outcomes will be measures of depression, anxiety and cost-effectiveness.ResultsThe trial has been approved by the Makerere College of Health Sciences School of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee, and the Uganda National Council of Science and Technology. Recruitment began in June 2021 and 120 young people living with HIV with their adult caregivers have been recruited to the trial. An analysis of baseline and 6-month data is in progress. The results of this trial will not only be presented at national and international conferences but also submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and as a report to the funding agencies.ConclusionsThis pilot trial will provide critical evidence to support the ongoing mental health integration into routine HIV care in Uganda.Trial RegistrationPan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR): 202006601935462
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Affiliation(s)
- Etheldreda Nakimuli-Mpungu
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
- Correspondence: Etheldreda Nakimuli-Mpungu
| | - Kizito Wamala
- Department of Psychology, Center for Victims of Torture, Gulu, Uganda
| | | | - Caroline Nakanyike
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Iya
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sabrina Bakeera Kitaka
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Justine Diana Namuli
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Benedict Akimana
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, Ministry of Health of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jean B. Nachega
- Departments of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
- Departments of International Health and Epidemiology, Bloomberg’s School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edward J. Mills
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Musisi Seggane
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Abuogi LL, Kulzer JL, Akama E, Odeny TA, Eshun-Wilson I, Petersen M, Shade SB, Montoya LM, Beres LK, Iguna S, Adhiambo HF, Osoro J, Opondo I, Sang N, Kwena Z, Bukusi EA, Geng EH. Adapt for Adolescents: Protocol for a sequential multiple assignment randomized trial to improve retention and viral suppression among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Kenya. Contemp Clin Trials 2023; 127:107123. [PMID: 36813086 PMCID: PMC10075086 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYAH) aged 14-24 years in Africa experience substantially higher rates of virological failure and HIV-related mortality than adults. We propose to utilize developmentally appropriate interventions with high potential for effectiveness, tailored by AYAH pre-implementation, in a sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART) aimed at improving viral suppression for AYAH in Kenya. METHODS Using a SMART design, we will randomize 880 AYAH in Kisumu, Kenya to either youth-centered education and counseling (standard of care) or electronic peer navigation in which a peer provides support, information, and counseling via phone and automated monthly text messages. Those with a lapse in engagement (defined as either a missed clinic visit by ≥14 days or HIV viral load ≥1000 copies/ml) will be randomized a second time to one of three higher-intensity re-engagement interventions: This study will evaluate which interventions and which dynamic sequence of interventions improve sustained viral suppression and HIV care engagement in AYAH at 24 months post-enrollment and assess the cost-effectiveness of successful strategies. DISCUSSION The study utilizes promising interventions tailored to AYAH while optimizing resources by intensifying services only for those AYAH who need more support. Findings from this innovative study will offer evidence for public health programming to end the HIV epidemic as a public health threat for AYAH in Africa. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.govNCT04432571, registered June 16, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa L Abuogi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Jayne Lewis Kulzer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eliud Akama
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Thomas A Odeny
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya; School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Maya Petersen
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Starley B Shade
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lina M Montoya
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Laura K Beres
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Iguna
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Harriet F Adhiambo
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joseph Osoro
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Isaya Opondo
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Norton Sang
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Zachary Kwena
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elvin H Geng
- School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
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20
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Malo VF, Ritchwood TD, Hart LJ, Atujuna M. A qualitative analysis of family support for adolescent HIV care in South Africa. AIDS Care 2023; 35:425-430. [PMID: 36120906 PMCID: PMC10020124 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2121956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Compared to other age groups, South African adolescents living with HIV (ALWH) have the lowest rates of retention in HIV care and medication adherence. While previous research suggests that familial social support may improve treatment retention and adherence within this population, we know little about the influence of differential types of social support on HIV-related outcomes. Thus, the purpose of this study is to qualitatively characterize the influence of type of familial social support on treatment retention and adherence among ALWH. We interviewed adolescents living with perinatally-acquired HIV (n = 20), their caregivers (n = 19), and community stakeholders (n = 20) in Cape Town, South Africa. Data were coded using deductive and inductive approaches to content analysis. We identified four types of familial social support: instrumental, appraisal, emotional, and informational support. Families provided instrumental support through logistical assistance, including transportation to appointments and pill reminders. Families also provided both emotional support and appraisal support, encouraging ALWH to adhere to their medication regimens by reflecting upon its importance to their futures. For informational support, families often educated ALWH about their HIV status and strategies for disease self-management. In characterizing familial social support, our findings highlight potential targets of future interventions to improve HIV-related outcomes among ALWH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tiarney D. Ritchwood
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, US
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, US
| | - Lauren J. Hart
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, US
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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21
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Beres LK, Mwamba C, Bolton-Moore C, Kennedy CE, Simbeza S, Topp SM, Sikombe K, Mukamba N, Mody A, Schwartz SR, Geng E, Holmes CB, Sikazwe I, Denison JA. Trajectories of re-engagement: factors and mechanisms enabling patient return to HIV care in Zambia. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26067. [PMID: 36840391 PMCID: PMC9958345 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While disengagement from HIV care threatens the health of persons living with HIV (PLWH) and incidence-reduction targets, re-engagement is a critical step towards positive outcomes. Studies that establish a deeper understanding of successful return to clinical care among previously disengaged PLWH and the factors supporting re-engagement are essential to facilitate long-term care continuity. METHODS We conducted narrative, patient-centred, in-depth interviews between January and June 2019 with 20 PLWH in Lusaka, Zambia, who had disengaged and then re-engaged in HIV care, identified through electronic medical records (EMRs). We applied narrative analysis techniques, and deductive and inductive thematic analysis to identify engagement patterns and enablers of return. RESULTS We inductively identified five trajectories of care engagement, suggesting patterns in patient characteristics, experienced barriers and return facilitators that may aid intervention targeting including: (1) intermittent engagement;(2) mostly engaged; (3) delayed linkage after testing; (4) needs time to initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART); and (5) re-engagement with ART initiation. Patient-identified periods of disengagement from care did not always align with care gaps indicated in the EMR. Key, interactive re-engagement facilitators experienced by participants, with varied importance across trajectories, included a desire for physical wellness and social support manifested through verbal encouragement, facility outreach or personal facility connections and family instrumental support. The mechanisms through which facilitators led to return were: (1) the promising of living out one's life priorities; (2) feeling valued; (3) fostering interpersonal accountability; (4) re-entry navigation support; (5) facilitated care and treatment access; and (6) management of significant barriers, such as depression. CONCLUSIONS While preliminary, the identified trajectories may guide interventions to support re-engagement, such as offering flexible ART access to patients with intermittent engagement patterns instead of stable patients only. Further, for re-engagement interventions to achieve impact, they must activate mechanisms underlying re-engagement behaviours. For example, facility outreach that reminds a patient to return to care but does not affirm a patient's value or navigate re-entry is unlikely to be effective. The demonstrated importance of positive health facility connections reinforces a growing call for patient-centred care. Additionally, interventions should consider the important role communities play in fostering treatment motivation and overcoming practical barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Beres
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chanda Mwamba
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Carolyn Bolton-Moore
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Caitlin E Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sandra Simbeza
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Stephanie M Topp
- College of Public Health Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kombatende Sikombe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Public Health Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Njekwa Mukamba
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Aaloke Mody
- University of Washington St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sheree R Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elvin Geng
- University of Washington St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Charles B Holmes
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Izukanji Sikazwe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Julie A Denison
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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22
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van Heerden A, Szpiro A, Ntinga X, Celum C, van Rooyen H, Essack Z, Barnabas R. A Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial of scalable interventions for ART delivery in South Africa: the SMART ART study. Trials 2023; 24:32. [PMID: 36647092 PMCID: PMC9842495 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-07025-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Of the 8 million people in South Africa living with HIV, 74% of persons living with HIV are on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 65% are virally suppressed. Detectable viral load results in HIV-associated morbidity and mortality and HIV transmission. Patient barriers to care, such as missed wages, transport costs, and long wait times for clinic visits and ART refills, are associated with detectable viral load. HIV differentiated service delivery (DSD) has simplified ART delivery for clients who achieve viral suppression and engage in care. However, DSD needs adaptation to serve clients who are not engaged in care. METHODS A Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial will be undertaken in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, to test adaptive ART delivery for persons with detectable viral load and/or who are not engaged in care. The types of differentiated service delivery (DSD) which will be examined in this study are clinic-based incentives, community-based smart lockers, and home delivery. The study plans to enroll up to 900 participants-people living with HIV, eligible for ART, and who are not engaged in care. The study aims to assess the proportion of ART-eligible persons living with HIV who achieve viral suppression at 18 months. The study will also evaluate the preferences of clients and providers for differentiated service delivery and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of adaptive HIV treatment for those who are not engaged in care. DISCUSSION To increase population-level viral suppression, persons with detectable viral load need responsive DSD interventions. A Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial (SMART) design facilitates the evaluation of a stepped, adaptive approach to achieving viral suppression with "right-sized" interventions for patients most in need of effective and efficient HIV care delivery strategies. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05090150. Registered on October 22, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alastair van Heerden
- grid.417715.10000 0001 0071 1142Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa ,grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135MRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Adam Szpiro
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Xolani Ntinga
- grid.417715.10000 0001 0071 1142Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Connie Celum
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Heidi van Rooyen
- grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135MRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa ,grid.417715.10000 0001 0071 1142Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Zaynab Essack
- grid.417715.10000 0001 0071 1142Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Ruanne Barnabas
- grid.32224.350000 0004 0386 9924Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA ,grid.38142.3c000000041936754XHarvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
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23
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Hlophe LD, Tamuzi JL, Shumba CS, Nyasulu PS. Barriers and facilitators to anti-retroviral therapy adherence among adolescents aged 10 to 19 years living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: A mixed-methods systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0276411. [PMID: 37200399 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) significantly affects adolescents globally, with the sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) reporting a high burden of the disease. HIV testing, treatment, and retention to care are low among adolescents. We conducted a mixed-method systematic review to assess anti-retroviral therapy (ART) adherence; barriers and facilitators to ART adherence and ART outcomes among adolescents living with HIV and on ART in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS We conducted searches in four scientific databases for studies conducted between 2010 and March 2022 to identify relevant primary studies. Studies were screened against inclusion criteria and assessed for quality, and data was extracted. Meta-analysis of rates and odd ratios was used to plot the quantitative studies and meta-synthesis summarized the evidence from qualitative studies. RESULTS A total of 10 431 studies were identified and screened against the inclusion/ exclusion criteria. Sixty-six studies met the inclusion criteria (41 quantitative, 16 qualitative, and 9 mixed-methods study designs). Fifty-three thousand two hundred and seventeen (53 217) adolescents (52 319 in quantitative studies and 899 in qualitative studies) were included in the review. Thirteen support focused interventions for improved ART adherence were identified from quantitative studies. The plotted results from the meta-analysis found an ART adherence rate of 65% (95%CI 56-74), viral load suppression was 55% (95%CI 46-64), un-suppressed viral load rate of 41% (95%CI 32-50), and loss to follow up of 17% (95%CI 10-24) among adolescents. Meta-synthesis found six themes of barriers to ART (social, patient-based, economic, health system-based, therapy-based, and cultural barriers) in both the qualitative and quantitative studies, and three themes of facilitators to ART were also identified (social support, counselling, and ART education and secrecy or confidentiality) from qualitative studies. CONCLUSION ART adherence remains low among adolescents in SSA despite multiple interventions implemented to improve ART adherence. The low adherence rate may hinder the attainment of the UNAIDS 2030 targets. Additionally, various barriers to ART adherence due to lack of support have been reported among this age group. However, interventions aimed at improving social support, educating, and counselling adolescents may improve and sustain ART adherence. TRIAL REGISTRATION Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021284891.
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Affiliation(s)
- Londiwe D Hlophe
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eswatini, Mbabane, Kingdom of Eswatini
| | - Jacques L Tamuzi
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Peter S Nyasulu
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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24
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Nagenda MC, Crowley T. Contextual Factors Influencing Self-Management of Adolescents and Youth Living with HIV: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Lesotho. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:238. [PMID: 36612559 PMCID: PMC9819797 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Background: HIV treatment outcomes of adolescents and youth living with HIV (AYLWH) are lagging. One way to improve outcomes is through supporting AYLWH to acquire self-management skills. Although self-management is associated with improved health outcomes, condition-specific, individual/family, and social/environmental contextual factors influence self-management. We aimed to describe factors influencing the self-management of AYLWH in Lesotho. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used. AYLWH (n = 183) aged 15−24 were conveniently sampled from two HIV treatment sites in Lesotho. Participants completed self-report questionnaires in English or Sesotho. Results: Participants (89.1% female) had high HIV self-management scores (mean 92.7%, SD 5.3%) that corresponded with treatment outcomes (98.9% adherent and 100% viral load < 1000 copies/mL). This might be attributed to condition-specific factors, including once-daily doses (100%) and longer duration of treatment (81.4% on ART for more than 10 years). Participants were older (median age 22), and the majority (61.7%) had stable living conditions. Individual strengths were associated with higher self-management scores (p < 0.01) and mental health problems with lower self-management scores (p < 0.05). Most (97.9%) were satisfied with their health care services. Conclusions: Uncomplicated treatment regimens, longer duration of treatment, stable living conditions, individual strengths, good mental health, and satisfaction with healthcare services have a positive influence on self-management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mapaseka Chabalala Nagenda
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Talitha Crowley
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
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25
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Jacobs T, George A. Between Rhetoric and Reality: Learnings From Youth Participation in the Adolescent and Youth Health Policy in South Africa. Int J Health Policy Manag 2022; 11:2927-2939. [PMID: 35490263 PMCID: PMC10105194 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2022.6387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth participation makes an essential contribution to the design of policies and with the appropriate structures, and processes, meaningful engagement leads to healthier, more just, and equal societies. There is a substantial gap between rhetoric and reality in terms of youth participation and there is scant research about this gap, both globally and in South Africa. In this paper we examine youth participation in the Adolescent and Youth Health Policy (AYHP) formulation process to further understand how youth can be included in health policy-making. METHODS A conceptual framework adapted from the literature encompassing Place, Purpose, People, Process and Partnerships guided the case study analysis of the AYHP. Qualitative data was collected via 30 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with policy actors from 2019-2021. RESULTS Youth participation in the AYHP was a 'first' and unique component for health policy in South Africa. It took place in a fragmented policy landscape with multiple actors, where past and present social and structural determinants, as well as contemporary bureaucratic and donor politics, still shape both the health and participation of young people. Youth participation was enabled by leadership from certain government actors and involvement of key academics with a foundation in long standing youth research participatory programmes. However, challenges related to when, how and which youth were involved remained. Youth participation was not consistent throughout the health policy formulation process. This is related to broader contextual challenges including the lack of a representative and active youth citizenry, siloed health programmes and policy processes, segmented donor priorities, and the lack of institutional capability for multi-sectoral engagement required for youth health. CONCLUSION Youth participation in the AYHP was a step toward including youth in the development of health policy but more needs to be done to bridge the gap between rhetoric and reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Jacobs
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Asha George
- School of Public Health Faculty of Community and Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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Barnabas RV, Szpiro AA, Ntinga X, Mugambi ML, van Rooyen H, Bruce A, Joseph P, Ngubane T, Krows ML, Schaafsma TT, Zhao T, Tanser F, Baeten JM, Celum C, van Heerden A. Fee for home delivery and monitoring of antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection compared with standard clinic-based services in South Africa: a randomised controlled trial. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e848-e856. [PMID: 36335976 PMCID: PMC9722609 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00254-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Home delivery and monitoring of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is convenient, overcomes logistical barriers, and could increase individual ART adherence and viral suppression. With client payment and sufficient health benefits, this strategy could be scalable. The aim of the Deliver Health Study was to test the acceptability and efficacy of a user fee for home ART monitoring and delivery. METHODS We conducted a randomised trial, the Deliver Health Study, of a fee for home delivery of ART compared with free clinic ART delivery in South Africa. People with HIV who were 18 years or older and clinically stable (including CD4 count >100 cells per μL and WHO HIV stage 1-3) were randomly assigned to: (1) fee for home delivery and monitoring of ART, including community ART initiation if needed; or (2) clinic-based ART (standard of care). The one-time fee for home delivery (ZAR 30, 60, and 90; equivalent to US$2, 4, 6) was tiered on the basis of participant income. The primary outcomes were recorded fee payment and acceptability assessed via questionnaire. The key virological secondary outcome was viral suppression with the difference between study groups assessed through robust Poisson regression including participants with viral load measured at exit (modified intention-to-treat analysis). This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04027153) and is complete, with analyses ongoing. FINDINGS From Oct 7, 2019, to Jan 30, 2020, 162 participants were enrolled; 82 were randomly assigned to the fee for home delivery group and 80 to the clinic-based group, with similar characteristics at baseline. Overall, 87 (54%) participants were men, 101 (62%) were on ART, and 98 (60%) were unemployed. In the home delivery group, 40 (49%), 33 (40%), and nine (11%) participants qualified for the ZAR 30, 60, and 90 fee, respectively. Median follow-up was 47 weeks (IQR 43-50) with 96% retention. 80 (98%) participants paid the user fee, with high acceptability and willingness to pay. In the modified intention-to-treat analysis of 155 (96%) participants who completed follow-up, fee for home delivery and monitoring statistically significantly increased viral suppression from 74% to 88% overall (RR 1·21, 95% CI 1·02-1·42); and from 64% to 84% among men (1·31, 1·01-1·71). INTERPRETATION Among South African adults with HIV, a fee for home delivery and monitoring of ART significantly increased viral suppression compared with clinic-based ART. Clients' paying a fee for home delivery and monitoring of ART was highly acceptable in the context of low income and high unemployment, and improved health outcomes as a result. Home ART delivery and monitoring, potentially with a user fee to offset costs, should be evaluated as a differentiated service delivery strategy to increase access to care. FUNDING National Institutes of Mental Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruanne V Barnabas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Adam A Szpiro
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Xolani Ntinga
- Human Sciences Research Council, Sweetwaters, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | | | - Heidi van Rooyen
- Human Sciences Research Council, Sweetwaters, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; MRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - Andrew Bruce
- Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Philip Joseph
- Human Sciences Research Council, Sweetwaters, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Thulani Ngubane
- Human Sciences Research Council, Sweetwaters, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Meighan L Krows
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Torin T Schaafsma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Theodore Zhao
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Frank Tanser
- Africa Health Research Institute, Somkhele, South Africa
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, USA
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alastair van Heerden
- Human Sciences Research Council, Sweetwaters, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; MRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
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Nyblade L, Ndirangu JW, Speizer IS, Browne FA, Bonner CP, Minnis A, Kline TL, Ahmed K, Howard BN, Cox EN, Rinderle A, Wechsberg WM. Stigma in the health clinic and implications for PrEP access and use by adolescent girls and young women: conflicting perspectives in South Africa. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1916. [PMID: 36242000 PMCID: PMC9563466 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14236-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, an urgent need exists to expand access to HIV prevention among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), but the need is particularly acute in sub-Saharan Africa. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) offers an effective HIV prevention method. In many countries, however, accessing PrEP necessitates that AGYW visit their local health clinic, where they may face access challenges. Some countries have implemented youth-friendly services to reduce certain challenges in local health clinics, but barriers to access persist, including clinic stigma. However, evidence of clinic stigma toward AGYW, particularly with respect to PrEP service delivery, is still limited. This mixed methods study explores stigma toward AGYW seeking clinic services, in particular PrEP, from the perspective of both clinic staff (clinical and nonclinical) and AGYW who seek services at clinic sites in Tshwane province, South Africa. METHODS Six focus group discussions were conducted with AGYW (43 total participants) and four with clinic staff (42 total participants) and triangulated with survey data with AGYW (n = 449) and clinic staff (n = 130). Thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data and descriptive statistics were conducted with the survey data. RESULTS Four common themes emerged across the qualitative and quantitative data and with both AGYW and clinic staff, although with varying degrees of resonance between these two groups. These themes included (1) clinic manifestations of stigma toward AGYW, (2) concerns about providing PrEP services for AGYW, (3) healthcare providers' identity as mothers, and (4) privacy and breaches of confidentiality. An additional theme identified mainly in the AGYW data pertained to stigma and access to healthcare. CONCLUSION Evidence is needed to inform strategies for addressing clinic stigma toward AGYW, with the goal of removing barriers to PrEP services for this group. While awareness has increased and progress has been achieved around the provision of comprehensive, youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services, these programs need to be adapted for the specific concerns of young people seeking PrEP services. Our findings point to the four key areas noted above where programs seeking to address stigma toward AGYW in clinics can tailor their programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Nyblade
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Global Health Division, RTI International, Washington, DC USA
| | - Jacqueline W. Ndirangu
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC USA
| | - Ilene S. Speizer
- grid.10698.360000000122483208Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Felicia A. Browne
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC USA ,grid.10698.360000000122483208Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Courtney Peasant Bonner
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC USA ,grid.10698.360000000122483208Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Alexandra Minnis
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA USA ,grid.47840.3f0000 0001 2181 7878School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA USA
| | - Tracy L. Kline
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Social Statistics Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC USA
| | - Khatija Ahmed
- grid.477887.3Setshaba Research Centre, Tshwane, South Africa ,grid.49697.350000 0001 2107 2298Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Brittni N. Howard
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC USA
| | - Erin N. Cox
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC USA
| | - Abigail Rinderle
- grid.10698.360000000122483208Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Wendee M. Wechsberg
- grid.62562.350000000100301493Substance Use, Gender, and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC USA ,grid.10698.360000000122483208Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA ,grid.40803.3f0000 0001 2173 6074Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC USA ,grid.26009.3d0000 0004 1936 7961Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC USA
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Mackworth-Young CRS, Dringus S, Dauya E, Dziva Chikwari C, Mavodza C, Tembo M, Doyle A, McHugh G, Simms V, Wedner-Ross M, Apollo T, Mugurungi O, Ferrand RA, Bernays S. Putting youth at the centre: co-design of a community-based intervention to improve HIV outcomes among youth in Zimbabwe. Wellcome Open Res 2022; 7:53. [PMID: 38264344 PMCID: PMC10804048 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17531.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Youth have disproportionately poor HIV outcomes. We aimed to co-design a community-based intervention with youth to improve HIV outcomes among 16-24 year-olds, to be trialled in Zimbabwe. Methods: We conducted 90 in-depth interviews with youth, family members, community gatekeepers and healthcare providers to understand the barriers to uptake of existing HIV services. The interviews informed an outline intervention, which was refined through two participatory workshops with youth, and subsequent pilot-testing. Results: Participants considered existing services inaccessible and unappealing: health facilities were perceived to be for 'sick people', centred around HIV and served by judgemental providers. Proposed features of an intervention to overcome these barriers included: i) delivery in a youth-only community space; ii) integration of HIV services with broader health services; iii) non-judgemental skilled healthcare providers; iv) entertainment to encourage attendance; and v) tailored timings and outreach. The intervention framework stands on three core pillars, based on optimizing access (community-based youth-friendly settings); uptake and acceptability (service branding, confidentiality, and social activities); and content and quality (integrated HIV care cascade, high quality products, and trained providers). Conclusions: Ongoing meaningful youth engagement is critical to designing HIV interventions if access, uptake, and coverage is to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance RS. Mackworth-Young
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Stefanie Dringus
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ethel Dauya
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Constancia Mavodza
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Mandikudza Tembo
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Aoife Doyle
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Grace McHugh
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Victoria Simms
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Tsitsi Apollo
- AIDS and TB Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Owen Mugurungi
- AIDS and TB Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rashida A. Ferrand
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sarah Bernays
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Mackworth-Young CRS, Dringus S, Dauya E, Dziva Chikwari C, Mavodza C, Tembo M, Doyle A, McHugh G, Simms V, Wedner-Ross M, Apollo T, Mugurungi O, Ferrand RA, Bernays S. Putting youth at the centre: co-design of a community-based intervention to improve HIV outcomes among youth in Zimbabwe. Wellcome Open Res 2022; 7:53. [PMID: 38264344 PMCID: PMC10804048 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17531.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Youth have disproportionately poor HIV outcomes. We aimed to co-design a community-based intervention with youth to improve HIV outcomes among 16-24 year-olds, to be trialled in Zimbabwe. Methods: We conducted 90 in-depth interviews with youth, family members, community gatekeepers and healthcare providers to understand the barriers to uptake of existing HIV services. The interviews informed an outline intervention, which was refined through two participatory workshops with youth, and subsequent pilot-testing. Results: Participants considered existing services inaccessible and unappealing: health facilities were perceived to be for 'sick people', centred around HIV and served by judgemental providers. Proposed features of an intervention to overcome these barriers included: i) delivery in a youth-only community space; ii) integration of HIV services with broader health services; iii) non-judgemental skilled healthcare providers; iv) entertainment to encourage attendance; and v) tailored timings and outreach. The intervention framework stands on three core pillars, based on optimizing access (community-based youth-friendly settings); uptake and acceptability (service branding, confidentiality, and social activities); and content and quality (integrated HIV care cascade, high quality products, and trained providers). Conclusions: Ongoing meaningful youth engagement is critical to designing HIV interventions if access, uptake, and coverage is to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance RS. Mackworth-Young
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Stefanie Dringus
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ethel Dauya
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Constancia Mavodza
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Mandikudza Tembo
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Aoife Doyle
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Grace McHugh
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Victoria Simms
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Tsitsi Apollo
- AIDS and TB Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Owen Mugurungi
- AIDS and TB Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rashida A. Ferrand
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sarah Bernays
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Hendricks LA, Young T, Van Wyk SS, Matheï C, Hannes K. Storyboarding HIV Infected Young People's Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in Lower- to Upper Middle-Income Countries: A New-Materialist Qualitative Evidence Synthesis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11317. [PMID: 36141589 PMCID: PMC9517626 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Young people living with perinatal infections of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (YLPHIV) face a chronic disease, with treatment including adherence to lifelong antiretroviral treatment (ART). The aim of this QES was to explore adherence to ART for YLPHIV as an assemblage within the framework of the biopsychosocial model with a new materialist perspective. We searched up to November 2021 and followed the ENTREQ and Cochrane guidelines for QES. All screening, data extraction, and critical appraisal were done in duplicate. We analysed and interpreted the findings innovatively by creating images of meaning, a storyboard, and storylines. We then reported the findings in a first-person narrative story. We included 47 studies and identified 9 storylines. We found that treatment adherence has less to do with humans' preferences, motivations, needs, and dispositions and more to do with how bodies, viruses, things, ideas, institutions, environments, social processes, and social structures assemble. This QES highlights that adherence to ART for YLPHIV is a multisensorial experience in a multi-agentic world. Future research into rethinking the linear and casual inferences we are accustomed to in evidence-based health care is needed if we are to adopt multidisciplinary approaches to address pressing issues such as adherence to ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn A. Hendricks
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 3000, South Africa
- Research Group SoMeTHin’K (Social, Methodological and Theoretical Innovation/Kreative), Faculty of Social Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Taryn Young
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 3000, South Africa
| | - Susanna S. Van Wyk
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 3000, South Africa
| | - Catharina Matheï
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Katholieke Universiteit, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karin Hannes
- Research Group SoMeTHin’K (Social, Methodological and Theoretical Innovation/Kreative), Faculty of Social Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Crowley T, van der Merwe AS, Esterhuizen T, Skinner D. Resilience of adolescents living with HIV in the Cape Metropole of the Western Cape. AIDS Care 2022; 34:1103-1110. [PMID: 34378464 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1961115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Resilience shapes the experiences of adolescents living with HIV (ALWH), enabling them to come to terms with their diagnosis, have hope for the future and maintain meaningful relationships. Yet, little is known about contextual factors associated with resilience resources in South Africa. We aimed to describe individual, relational and community resilience resources, and identify contextual factors associated with resilience. We recruited 385 adolescents, aged 13-18, over a period of 5 months from 11 different public health HIV clinics. The Child and Youth Resilience Measure (CYRM-12) was used to measure resilience resources. Data on demographic variables, psychological attributes, and environmental factors such as HIV-related stigma and stressful life events were collected. ALWH lacked resilience in some aspects of the individual, relational and community domains. For every one-unit increase in the HIV-related stigma and stressful life events scores, resilience decreased by 0.29 (p = 0.01) and 0.37 (p = 0.04) units, respectively. Higher levels of resilience were associated with being virally suppressed (Mann-Whitney U, p = 0.028) although this association was no longer present in the regression model. Efforts to improve resilience amongst ALWH should be focused on fostering individual coping skills, interconnectedness, and positive relationships, to mitigate adverse environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talitha Crowley
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anita S van der Merwe
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tonya Esterhuizen
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Donald Skinner
- Department of Public Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Human Sciences Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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Rehman AM, Simms V, McHugh G, Mujuru H, Ngwira LG, Semphere R, Moyo B, Bandason T, Odland JO, Ferrand RA. Adherence to additional medication for management of HIV-associated comorbidities among older children and adolescents taking antiretroviral therapy. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269229. [PMID: 35704559 PMCID: PMC9200347 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Management of co-morbidities among persons living with HIV is an emerging priority, which may require additional medication over and above life-long antiretroviral therapy (ART). We explored factors associated with adherence to the trial drug among children and adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Bronchopulmonary Function in Response to Azithromycin Treatment for Chronic Lung Disease in HIV-Infected Children (BREATHE) trial. Methods The BREATHE trial recruited 6–19 year olds with perinatally acquired HIV and co-morbid chronic lung disease as measured by FEV1. This two-site trial was individually randomised (1:1), double-blind and placebo-controlled. Participants received a once-weekly weight-based dose of 1–5 tablets of azithromycin (AZM: 250mg) or placebo, taken orally. We used pharmacy dispensing records and count of returned pills to measure adherence to study medication. Logistic regression was used to explore factors associated with adherence coverage. Poisson regression with Lexis expansion for time was used to explore whether adherence modified the effect of azithromycin on the incidence of acute respiratory exacerbation, a secondary outcome of the trial. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02426112. Results The 347 participants (median age 15.3, 51% male) consumed 14,622 doses of study medication over 16,220 person-weeks under study. Adherence was higher for those randomised to AZM (73.4%) than placebo (68.4%) and declined over the 48 weeks of the study (Score test for trend <0.02). Those with unsuppressed HIV viral load at baseline had 2.08 (95% CI: 1.19, 3.63) times the odds of non-adherence than those with viral suppression. Differences were also observed between trial sites. Conclusion The majority of children and adolescents tolerated the addition of a once-weekly dose of medication to their pill burden. Barriers in adhering to treatment for co-morbid conditions are likely common to barriers in adhering to ART. Control of co-morbidities will therefore present additional challenges in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M. Rehman
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Victoria Simms
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Grace McHugh
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hilda Mujuru
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Lucky G. Ngwira
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Robina Semphere
- Department of Microbiology & HNTI, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Brewster Moyo
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jon O. Odland
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science & Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Rashida A. Ferrand
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Duffy M, Madevu‐Matson C, Posner JE, Zwick H, Sharer M, Powell AM. Systematic review: Development of a person-centered care framework within the context of HIV treatment settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Trop Med Int Health 2022; 27:479-493. [PMID: 35316549 PMCID: PMC9324124 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Person-centred care (PCC) meets the needs of individuals by increasing convenience, providing supportive and culturally appropriate services to diverse populations, and engaging families, communities, and stakeholders in planning and provision of care. While the evidence demonstrates that PCC approaches can lead to clinical improvements across the HIV care continuum, it is not yet well defined in the context of HIV service delivery. METHODS A systematic review was conducted to define PCC practices for HIV treatment services in health facilities in sub-Saharan Africa. Data synthesis led to the development of a PCC framework including domain and sub-domain development. The study team used the Effective Public Health Project Practice tool for quantitative studies to assess the quality of the included studies. RESULTS Thirty-one studies from 12 countries met the inclusion criteria, including 56,586 study participants (females 42%-100% and males 0%-58%), resulting in three major domains and 11 sub-domains. These include staffing (sub-domains of composition, availability, and competency); service delivery standards (sub-domains of client feedback mechanisms; service efficiency and integration; convenience and access; and digital health worker support tools); and direct client support services (sub-domains of psychosocial services, logistics support, client-agency, and digital client support tools). Twenty-five of the person-centred interventions within these domains resulted in improvements in linkage to care, treatment retention, and/or viral suppression. CONCLUSIONS The PCC framework can help to provide a more consistent classification of HIV treatment interventions and will support improved assessment of these interventions to ensure that people receive personalised care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malia Duffy
- International DivisionJohn Snow, Inc.BostonMassachusettsUSA
- Public HealthSaint Ambrose UniversityDavenportIowaUSA
| | | | | | - Hana Zwick
- International DivisionJohn Snow, Inc.BostonMassachusettsUSA
- Global Health InstituteDuke UniversityDurhamNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Melissa Sharer
- International DivisionJohn Snow, Inc.BostonMassachusettsUSA
- Public HealthSaint Ambrose UniversityDavenportIowaUSA
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van Staden Q, Laurenzi CA, Toska E. Two years after lockdown: reviewing the effects of COVID-19 on health services and support for adolescents living with HIV in South Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25904. [PMID: 35475319 PMCID: PMC9042673 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION South Africa's progress towards the 95-95-95 goals has been significantly slower among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV), among whom antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, retention in care and viral suppression remain a concern. After 2 years of living with COVID-19, it is important to examine the direct and indirect effects of the pandemic on healthcare resources, access to HIV services and availability of support structures, to assess their impact on HIV care for ALHIV. DISCUSSION The COVID-19 response in South Africa has shifted healthcare resources towards combatting COVID-19, affecting the quality and availability of HIV services-especially for vulnerable populations, such as ALHIV. The healthcare system's response to COVID-19 has threatened to diminish fragile gains in engaging ALHIV with HIV services, especially as this group relies on overburdened public health facilities for their HIV care. Reallocation of limited health resources utilized by ALHIV disrupted healthcare workers' capacity to form and maintain therapeutic relationships with ALHIV and monitor ALHIV for ART-related side effects, treatment difficulties and mental health conditions, affecting their ability to retain ALHIV in HIV care. Prevailing declines in HIV surveillance meant missed opportunities to identify and manage opportunistic infections and HIV disease progression in adolescents. "Lockdown" restrictions have limited access to healthcare facilities and healthcare workers for ALHIV by reducing clinic appointments and limiting individual movement. ALHIV have had restricted access to social, psychological and educational support structures, including national feeding schemes. This limited access, coupled with reduced opportunities for routine maternal and sexual and reproductive health services, may place adolescent girls at greater risk of transactional sex, child marriages, unintended pregnancy and mother-to-child HIV transmission. CONCLUSIONS Adolescent HIV care in South Africa is often overlooked; however, ART adherence among ALHIV in South Africa is particularly susceptible to the consequences of a world transformed by COVID-19. The current structures in place to support HIV testing, ART initiation and adherence have been reshaped by disruptions to health structures, new barriers to access health services and the limited available education and psychosocial support systems. Reflecting on these limitations can drive considerations for minimizing these barriers and retaining ALHIV in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quintin van Staden
- Department of SociologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Universitas HospitalBloemfonteinSouth Africa
| | - Christina A. Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of SociologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Centre for Social Science ResearchUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Department of Social Policy and InterventionUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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Enane LA, Apondi E, Liepmann C, Toromo JJ, Omollo M, Bakari S, Scanlon M, Wools-Kaloustian K, Vreeman RC. 'We are not going anywhere': a qualitative study of Kenyan healthcare worker perspectives on adolescent HIV care engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055948. [PMID: 35354627 PMCID: PMC8968109 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) may be vulnerable to widescale impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and to health system responses which impact HIV care. We assessed healthcare worker (HCW) perspectives on impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent HIV care delivery and engagement in western Kenya. METHODS We performed in-depth qualitative interviews with HCW at 10 clinical sites in the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare in Kenya, from January to March, 2021. Semistructured interviews ascertained pandemic-related impacts on adolescent HIV care delivery and retention. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 22 HCWs from 10 clinics. HCWs observed adolescent financial hardships, unmet basic needs and school dropouts during the pandemic, with some adolescents relocating to rural homes, to partners or to the street. Marked increases in adolescent pregnancies and pregnancy complications were described, as well as barriers to family planning and antenatal care. Transportation challenges and restrictions limited access to care and prompted provision of multi-month refills, refills at local dispensaries or transfer to local facilities. Adolescent-friendly services were compromised, resulting in care challenges and disengagement from care. Clinic capacities to respond to adolescent needs were limited by funding cuts to multidisciplinary staff and resources. HCW and youth peer mentors (YPMs) demonstrated resilience, by adapting services, taking on expanded roles and leveraging available resources to support adolescent retention and access to care. CONCLUSIONS ALHIV are uniquely vulnerable, and adolescent-friendly services are essential to their treatment. The combined effects of the pandemic, health system changes and funding cuts compromised adolescent-friendly care and limited capacity to respond to adolescent needs. There is a need to reinforce adolescent-friendly services within programmes and funding structures. Support for expanded YPM roles may facilitate dedicated, scalable and effective adolescent-friendly services, which are resilient and sustainable in times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Enane
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Claire Liepmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Judith J Toromo
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Mark Omollo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Salim Bakari
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Michael Scanlon
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Global Health and Health Systems Design, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, New York City, New York, USA
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Coard E, Oliver D, Monday F. HIV outcomes within the context of orphans and vulnerable children programing: the 4Children project in South Sudan. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:186. [PMID: 35209860 PMCID: PMC8867614 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07172-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poor antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is a challenge to containing the spread of HIV. This is an especially difficult challenge in conflict and post-conflict settings. This study investigates the relationship between attendance in an Orphan and Vulnerable Children program in South Sudan and HIV-related outcomes, including clinic appointment attendance, frequency of viral load testing and viral load suppression rates. Methods Patient records (n = 295) were selected from project-supported clinics in Juba, South Sudan, and analyzed to measure the association between enrollment status and select health outcomes. Data were collected at multiple time points between 2018 and 2019, to measure the strength of relationship between select treatment variables (e.g., viral load, retention in care, etc.). Given the structure of the data, non-parametric tests were applied to answer the research questions. Results Analysis revealed three important trends: (1) enrollment in the 4Children project was associated with a statistically significant increase in the frequency of viral load testing; (2) there was an increase in median appointment attendance after program enrollment; and (3) there was improved management of viral load and CD4 count, albeit small, during the time period before and after enrollment. Conclusions Data from South Sudan suggests that caregivers and children receiving project services saw improvement in treatment-related indicators. After enrolling in the project, overall amount of viral load testing increased from previous counts before enrollment. This suggests that after providing additional services with psychosocial and financial support to patients at the two hospitals in Juba, there was potential that similar interventions can support improved HIV outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Coard
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Does Type of Social Support Influence Medication Adherence Among South African Adolescents Living With HIV? A Quantitative Analysis of Pilot Data. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2022; 33:492-498. [PMID: 35034084 PMCID: PMC9246954 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Adolescents living with HIV often experience worse medication adherence than older and younger individuals living with HIV. One factor that may mitigate poor adherence is social support. However, few studies have examined the influence of specific social support constructs on HIV outcomes like medication adherence. In response to this gap, we performed bivariate analyses using data from 104 adolescents living with HIV in Cape Town, South Africa to understand the relationship between three types of social support (emotional, informational, and instrumental support) and four HIV-related outcomes: adherence self-efficacy, last recorded CD4+ count, last recorded viral load, and adherence to clinic appointments in the past year. We found small positive associations between two social support types (emotional and informational support) and adherence self-efficacy, with no other statistically significant associations. In light of our small sample size, future studies should seek to understand the differential effects of specific types of social support on HIV-related outcomes to better inform interventions for adolescents living with HIV.
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Wilson K, Onyango A, Mugo C, Guthrie B, Slyker J, Richardson B, John-Stewart G, Inwani I, Bukusi D, Wamalwa D, Kohler P. Kenyan HIV Clinics With Youth-Friendly Services and Trained Providers Have a Higher Prevalence of Viral Suppression Among Adolescents and Young Adults: Results From an Observational Study. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2022; 33:45-53. [PMID: 34939987 PMCID: PMC10329499 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Sustained viral suppression in adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYALWH) is necessary for epidemic control. We evaluated facility and individual correlates of viral suppression using programmatic data from AYALWH between ages 10 and 24 years at 24 HIV clinics in Kenya. Binomial regression was used to evaluate correlates of viral load (VL) suppression (<1,000 copies/ml). Of 5,316 AYALWH on antiretroviral therapy ≥6 months, 2,081 (39%) had VLs available in the medical record, of which 76% were virally suppressed. In multivariable analyses, antiretroviral therapy initiation among AYALWH older than 10 years was associated with higher viral suppression than initiation younger than 10 years (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] 10-14 = 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.97-1.10; aRR 15-19 = 1.30, 95% CI 1.19-1.41; aRR 20-24 = 1.43, 95% CI 1.24-1.63). Facilities with both youth-friendly services (YFS) and trained providers had significantly higher VL suppression compared with facilities without YFS or trained providers (adjusted odds ratio: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.71-2.52). Viral suppression remains suboptimal among AYALWH. YFS and trained providers plus greater use of VL data may help increase viral suppression among AYALWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Wilson
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Alvin Onyango
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Cyrus Mugo
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Brandon Guthrie
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jennifer Slyker
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Barbra Richardson
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Irene Inwani
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - David Bukusi
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Dalton Wamalwa
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Pamela Kohler
- Kate Wilson, PhD, MPH, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Alvin Onyango, BSN, is a Study Coordinator, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cyrus Mugo, MBChB, MPH, is a Doctoral Student, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Brandon Guthrie, PhD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Jennifer Slyker, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Barbra Richardson, PhD, is a Research Professor, Departments of Biostatistics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Grace John-Stewart, PhD, MD, is a Professor, Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Irene Inwani, MBChB, MPH, is an Assistant Director, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- David Bukusi, MBChB, MMED, is the Director of the VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dalton Wamalwa, MBChB, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Pamela Kohler, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Associate Professor, Department of Global Health, and the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Ameli V, Taj L, Barlow J, Sabin L, Meinck F, Haberer J, Mohraz M. 'You just prefer to die early!': how socioecological context impedes treatment for people living with HIV in Iran. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e006088. [PMID: 34794955 PMCID: PMC8603297 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the low prevalence of HIV and broad provision of antiretroviral therapy, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) remains the only region where new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths are not declining. There is a dearth of evidence from MENA on antiretroviral therapy engagement. In this qualitative study, we sought to identify the ways in which successful treatment is hindered in Iran, which is home to 24% of HIV infections in MENA. METHODS From August 2018 to January 2019, we used purposive sampling and conducted 12 individual interviews and 8 focus group discussions with 27 female and 31 male patients, in addition to 5 individual interviews with HIV care providers and 1 focus group discussion with 8 care providers. Social constructivism augmented with realist-informed thematic analysis was used to understand how the socioecological context triggers cognitive and affective mechanisms that disrupt antiretroviral therapy. RESULTS The use of Thematic Network Analysis resulted in the identification of three key cognitive and affective mechanisms that appear to shape treatment experience and are triggered via HIV's socioecological context and changing economic conditions in Iran: denial in response to societal negative perceptions of HIV; fear in response to societal lack of awareness regarding HIV and misinformation; and despair in response to HIV-related stigma and enacted discrimination, economic insecurity and social support. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study within MENA to identify pathways through which successful treatment is hindered. It appears that lack of societal awareness regarding HIV is specific to low prevalence settings, such as MENA countries, where negative perceptions, stigma, discrimination and misinformation regarding HIV and its treatment produce denial, fear and despair, acting as mechanisms that disrupt antiretroviral therapy. The experience of despair, in response to changing economic conditions and social support, further impacts treatment experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vira Ameli
- Social Policy and Intervention, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
- Iranian Research Center for HIV / AIDS, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Leila Taj
- Iranian Research Center for HIV / AIDS, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Jane Barlow
- Social Policy and Intervention, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Lora Sabin
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Franziska Meinck
- School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- School of Public Health, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Jessica Haberer
- Center for Global Health at Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Minoo Mohraz
- Iranian Research Center for HIV / AIDS, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
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Zhou S, Cluver L, Shenderovich Y, Toska E. Uncovering ART adherence inconsistencies: An assessment of sustained adherence among adolescents in South Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25832. [PMID: 34708912 PMCID: PMC8552454 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence rates are lower among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) than among adults and children, but more evidence is needed on long‐term sustained ART adherence among ALHIV. This study assesses rates of sustained ART adherence in a cohort of adolescents in South Africa. Methods A prospective cohort of adolescents (10‐19 years) living with HIV (baseline sample N = 1 046, 55% female, mean age 13.6) in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa were interviewed at baseline (2014‐15) and followed‐up twice (2015‐16, 2017–18). All adolescents ever initiated on treatment in 52 government health facilities were traced (with 90% uptake, 94% retention at Wave 2, and 97% retention at Wave 3, 3.4% mortality) and their clinic records were extracted where available. We investigate sustained ART adherence among adolescents interviewed at all three waves of data collection (N = 933). To quantify adherence at each study wave, we used self‐reported past‐week adherence (including weekdays and weekends). Self‐reported adherence was validated using HIV‐1 RNA viral load (>50 copies/mL cut‐off) reported in clinic records, in a random‐intercept logistic regression. Results and discussion At baseline, approximately 66% (N = 615) of adolescents reported past‐week ART adherence, and of these 45.3% reported adherence at both baseline and follow‐up. Only 37.1% of the sample reported sustained past‐week ART adherence over the three waves of the study. Most adolescents (N = 587, 62.9%) report inconsistent adherence across time (including 6.4% disengaged from care). Older (P = 0.007) and adolescents with horizontally acquired HIV (P = 0.002) were more likely to report inconsistent adherence across time. Controlling for socio‐demographic characteristics, past‐week adherence was associated with non‐detectable viral load (aOR 1.72, 95%CI 1.14‐2.59, P = 0.009). Overall, of the adolescents with viral load measurements at study Wave 1 and Wave 2, 50.6% maintained undetectable viral load for the preceding year. Conclusions Adolescents living with HIV reported very low rates of sustained ART adherence. Adherence reported at a single time may mask high rates of variability in adherence over time. These findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced and effective interventions to assist ALHIV with ART adherence through the challenging years of adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Yulia Shenderovich
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Falcão J, Zerbe A, Mellins CA, Mantell J, Brittain K, Kapogiannis B, de Gusmao EP, Simione TB, Abrams EJ. The secret life of young adolescents living with HIV in northern Mozambique - a mixed methods study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1650. [PMID: 34503473 PMCID: PMC8431874 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11707-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Mozambique, HIV infection remains a leading cause of adolescent mortality. With advances in antiretroviral treatment (ART), the population of adolescents living with vertically-acquired HIV is growing. Most studies of adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) focus on older youth with horizontal infection. As part of a larger study, we examined the characteristics and health care needs of younger ALHIV, including those with vertically-acquired infection to inform preventive interventions. Methods We used a convergent mixed-methods design and recruited ALHIV aged 12–14 years who were enrolled in HIV care in three health clinics in Nampula, Mozambique. From 11/2019–3/2020, we conducted 61 quantitative surveys and 14 in-depth interviews with a purposively selected subset of ALHIV who were aware of their HIV status. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted for quantitative data. Qualitative data were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results The median age of ALHIV was 13 years, 50% were female, 67% lived with ≥1 parent, 70% had lost a parent, 100% were in school; 10% were in a relationship, and 3% had initiated sexual activity. Among 31 ALHIV aware of their serostatus, the median age of antiretroviral treatment (ART) initiation was 8 years (IQR: 6–11); 55% received caregiver support for ART management; 35% reported missing ≥1 ART dose in the last 30 days; 6% had disclosed their HIV-status to friends and 48% reported no one to talk to about HIV-specific issues. Four main themes emerged from the qualitative interviews with ALHIV: a) learning one’s HIV-positive status as the beginning of a secret life; b) importance of caregivers’ support for ART management; c) high value of ALHIV peer support to overcome isolation, increase HIV literacy, and support adherence; and d) unmet needs for sexual and reproductive health education. Conclusion HIV-related secrecy prevails among ALHIV, a situation exacerbated by caregivers and healthcare providers. Caregivers play a major role in supporting adherence among young ALHIV, yet ALHIV could also benefit from adolescent-friendly services, including peer support, sexual and reproductive health services and preparation for independent health management. Integrating such programs into ART services in Mozambique may be critical to promoting ALHIV health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Falcão
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, USA.
| | - Allison Zerbe
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, USA
| | - Claude Ann Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joanne Mantell
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kirsty Brittain
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bill Kapogiannis
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Elaine J Abrams
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, USA
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Woollett N, Pahad S, Black V. "We need our own clinics": Adolescents' living with HIV recommendations for a responsive health system. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253984. [PMID: 34197529 PMCID: PMC8248739 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescents living with HIV comprise a significant patient population in sub Saharan Africa but are poorly retained in care with consequent increased mortality and morbidity. We conducted in-depth interviews with 25 adolescents living with HIV engaged in care from five clinics in Johannesburg regarding their recommendations for the healthcare system. Findings included advocating for adolescent clinics, recognizing the importance of clinic-based support groups, valuing the influence lay counselors have in providing healthcare to adolescents, improving widespread education of vertical HIV transmission and meaningfully linking clinics to the community. Our study offers guidance to the differentiated care model recommended for adolescent treatment highlighting that a positive youth development approach and use of lay and peer counselors may act as cornerstones of this model. Serving the mental health needs of adolescents living with HIV in a responsive manner may strengthen their use of the system and elevate it to a source of resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Woollett
- Wits School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Shenaaz Pahad
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute (Wits RHI), Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Vivian Black
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Wits School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Cluver L, Shenderovich Y, Toska E, Rudgard WE, Zhou S, Orkin M, Haghighat R, Chetty AN, Kuo C, Armstrong A, Sherr L. Clinic and care: associations with adolescent antiretroviral therapy adherence in a prospective cohort in South Africa. AIDS 2021; 35:1263-1271. [PMID: 33730747 PMCID: PMC8183481 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adolescent antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence remains critically low. We lack research testing protective factors across both clinic and care environments. DESIGN A prospective cohort of adolescents living with HIV (sample n = 969, 55% girls, baseline mean age 13.6) in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa were interviewed at baseline and 18-month follow-up (2014-2015, 2015-2016). We traced all adolescents ever initiated on treatment in 52 government health facilities (90% uptake, 93% 18-month retention, 1.2% mortality). METHODS Clinical records were collected; standardized questionnaires were administered by trained data collectors in adolescents' language of choice. Probit within-between regressions and average adjusted probability calculations were used to examine associations of caregiving and clinic factors with adherence, controlling for household structure, socioeconomic and HIV factors. RESULTS Past-week ART adherence was 66% (baseline), 65% (follow-up), validated against viral load in subsample. Within-individual changes in three factors were associated with improved adherence: no physical and emotional violence (12.1 percentage points increase in adjusted probability of adherence, P < 0.001), improvement in perceived healthcare confidentiality (7.1 percentage points, P < 0.04) and shorter travel time to the clinic (13.7 percentage points, P < 0.02). In combination, improvement in violence prevention, travel time and confidentiality were associated with 81% probability of ART adherence, compared with 47% with a worsening in all three. CONCLUSION Adolescents living with HIV need to be safe at home and feel safe from stigma in an accessible clinic. This will require active collaboration between health and child protection systems, and utilization of effective violence prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Cluver
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Yulia Shenderovich
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University Cardiff, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Social Science Research
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town
| | - William E. Rudgard
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Mark Orkin
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Medical Research Council Development Pathways to Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Roxanna Haghighat
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Angelique N. Chetty
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Social Science Research
| | - Caroline Kuo
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Alice Armstrong
- UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Health Psychology Unit, Institute of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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Badejo O, Noestlinger C, Jolayemi T, Adeola J, Okonkwo P, Van Belle S, Wouters E, Laga M. Multilevel modelling and multiple group analysis of disparities in continuity of care and viral suppression among adolescents and youths living with HIV in Nigeria. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 5:bmjgh-2020-003269. [PMID: 33154102 PMCID: PMC7646327 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-003269] [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: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Substantial disparities in care outcomes exist between different subgroups of adolescents and youths living with HIV (AYLHIV). Understanding variation in individual and health facility characteristics could be key to identifying targets for interventions to reduce these disparities. We modelled variation in AYLHIV retention in care and viral suppression, and quantified the extent to which individual and facility characteristics account for observed variations. METHODS We included 1170 young adolescents (10-14 years), 3206 older adolescents (15-19 years) and 9151 young adults (20-24 years) who were initiated on antiretroviral therapy (ART) between January 2015 and December 2017 across 124 healthcare facilities in Nigeria. For each age group, we used multilevel modelling to partition observed variation of main outcomes (retention in care and viral suppression at 12 months after ART initiation) by individual (level one) and health facility (level two) characteristics. We used multiple group analysis to compare the effects of individual and facility characteristics across age groups. RESULTS Facility characteristics explained most of the observed variance in retention in care in all the age groups, with smaller contributions from individual-level characteristics (14%-22.22% vs 0%-3.84%). For viral suppression, facility characteristics accounted for a higher proportion of variance in young adolescents (15.79%), but not in older adolescents (0%) and young adults (3.45%). Males were more likely to not be retained in care (adjusted OR (aOR)=1.28; p<0.001 young adults) and less likely to achieve viral suppression (aOR=0.69; p<0.05 older adolescent). Increasing facility-level viral load testing reduced the likelihood of non-retention in care, while baseline regimen TDF/3TC/EFV or NVP increased the likelihood of viral suppression. CONCLUSIONS Differences in characteristics of healthcare facilities accounted for observed disparities in retention in care and, to a lesser extent, disparities in viral suppression. An optimal combination of individual and health services approaches is, therefore, necessary to reduce disparities in the health and well-being of AYLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okikiolu Badejo
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium .,APIN Public Health Initiative, Abuja, Nigeria.,Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | - Sara Van Belle
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Edwin Wouters
- Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Marie Laga
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
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Abrams EA, Burke VM, Merrill KG, Frimpong C, Miti S, Mwansa JK, Denison JA. "Adolescents do not only require ARVs and adherence counseling": A qualitative investigation of health care provider experiences with an HIV youth peer mentoring program in Ndola, Zambia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252349. [PMID: 34106967 PMCID: PMC8189477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) living with HIV face unique challenges and have poorer health outcomes than adults with HIV. Project YES! was a youth-led initiative to promote HIV self-management and reduce stigma among AYAs in four Ndola, Zambia clinics. Clinic health care providers (HCPs) were involved in multiple intervention aspects, including serving as expert resources during AYA and caregiver group meetings, facilitating resistance test-based AYA antiretroviral drug changes, meeting with participants referred through a safety protocol, and guiding a subset of participants’ physical transition from pediatric to adult clinic settings. This study aimed to understand HCP insights on facilitators and barriers to implementing Project YES! and scaling up a clinic-based, youth-focused program. Methods A trained interviewer conducted ten in-depth interviews with participating HCPs from November–December 2018 and analyzed data, identifying key themes. These themes were examined in terms of two implementation science outcomes–acceptability and feasibility–to inform scalability. Results HCPs found peer mentoring valuable for AYAs with HIV and the bimonthly caregiver meetings beneficial to AYA caregivers. HCPs voiced a desire for more involvement in specific processes related to patient clinical care, such as drug changes. HCPs’ experiences with the study safety protocol, including referrals for youth experiences of violence, shifted their views of AYAs and informed their understanding of key issues youth face. Considering this, many HCPs requested more resources to support AYAs’ varied needs. HCPs noted limited time and clinic space as implementation barriers but felt the program was valuable overall. Conclusions HCPs concluded youth peer mentoring was highly acceptable and feasible, supporting scale-up of youth-led interventions addressing the multi-faceted needs of AYAs living with HIV. Continued provider involvement in resistance test-based antiretroviral drug changes, considered in the context of health system and clinic policy, would enhance long-term success of the program at scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Abrams
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Virginia M Burke
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Katherine G Merrill
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Sam Miti
- Arthur Davison Children's Hospital, Ndola, Zambia
| | | | - Julie A Denison
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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46
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Adams L, Crowley T. Adolescent human immunodeficiency virus self-management: Needs of adolescents in the Eastern Cape. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2021; 13:e1-e9. [PMID: 33764137 PMCID: PMC8007991 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v13i1.2756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a chronic illness and adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) need the support of the whole family to self-manage (handle, direct and control) their chronic illness. Little is known about self-management amongst ALHIV in the context of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Aim This study explored the self-management needs of ALHIV in the Nelson Mandela Bay area of the Eastern Cape to make recommendations that can be used in further research to develop a programme to support adolescents with self-management. Setting The study was conducted at two primary healthcare clinics in the Nelson Mandela Bay area of the Eastern Cape. Methods A qualitative descriptive design was applied. Thirteen adolescents between the age of 14 and 19 years were interviewed. The data were collected through individual interviews. Data analysis was done using the six steps described by Creswell. Results Adolescents living with HIV have limited knowledge and understanding about HIV and sexual reproductive health. Some ALHIV lack self-regulation skills related to decisions about disclosure, managing stigma and emotions, taking treatment, effective communication and setting goals. Human immunodeficiency virus services were not adolescent-friendly, with long queues and no dedicated services for adolescents. Family and friends were a key self-management resource for ALHIV. Conclusion Adolescents living with HIV have several self-management needs in the domains of knowledge and beliefs, self-regulation skills and abilities, and self-management resources. Healthcare workers should support adolescents and their caregivers to acquire self-management skills as this may lead to better treatment and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leone Adams
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town.
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Mackworth-Young CRS, Bond V, Stangl AL, Chonta M, Wringe A. Coming of age with HIV: a temporal understanding of young women's experiences in Zambia. AIDS Care 2021; 33:159-166. [PMID: 31906703 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1709616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Young perinatally-infected women living with HIV in Zambia grew up alongside antiretroviral therapy (ART) roll-out and expanding prevention programmes. We used Bonnington's temporal framework to understand how HIV impacted the experiences of these women over time. Data were drawn from two sequential studies with a cohort of young women living with HIV: a qualitative study in 2014-16 and an ethnographic study in 2017-18. Data from workshops, in-depth interviews, participant observation and diaries were analysed thematically, guided by three temporalities within the framework: everyday, biographical and epochal time. In everyday time, repetitive daily treatment-taking reminded young women of their HIV status, affecting relationships and leading to secrecy with ART. In biographical time, past events including HIV disclosure, experiences of illness, and loss shaped present experiences and future aspirations. Lastly, in epochal time, the women's HIV infection and their survival were intimately interlinked with the history of ART availability. The epochal temporal understanding leads us to extend Reynolds Whyte's notion of "biogeneration" to conceptualise these women, whose experiences of living with HIV are enmeshed with their biosocial environment. Support groups for young women living with HIV should help them to process biographical events, as well as supporting their everyday needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance R S Mackworth-Young
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Social Science Department, Zambart, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Virginia Bond
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Social Science Department, Zambart, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Anne L Stangl
- International Center for Research on Women, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Alison Wringe
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Shenderovich Y, Boyes M, Esposti MD, Casale M, Toska E, Roberts KJ, Cluver L. Relationships with caregivers and mental health outcomes among adolescents living with HIV: a prospective cohort study in South Africa. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:172. [PMID: 33472607 PMCID: PMC7816135 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-10147-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health problems may impact adherence to anti-retroviral treatment, retention in care, and consequently the survival of adolescents living with HIV. The adolescent-caregiver relationship is an important potential source of resilience. However, there is a lack of longitudinal research in sub-Saharan Africa on which aspects of adolescent-caregiver relationships can promote mental health among adolescents living with HIV. We draw on a prospective longitudinal cohort study undertaken in South Africa to address this question. METHODS The study traced adolescents aged 10-19 initiated on antiretroviral treatment in government health facilities (n = 53) within a health district of the Eastern Cape province. The adolescents completed standardised questionnaires during three data collection waves between 2014 and 2018. We used within-between multilevel regressions to examine the links between three aspects of adolescent-caregiver relationships (caregiver supervision, positive caregiving, and adolescent-caregiver communication) and adolescent mental health (depression symptoms and anxiety symptoms), controlling for potential confounders (age, sex, rural/urban residence, mode of infection, household resources), n=926 adolescents. RESULTS Improvements in caregiver supervision were associated with reductions in anxiety (0.98, 95% CI 0.97-0.99, p=0.0002) but not depression symptoms (0.99, 95% CI 0.98-1.00, p=.151), while changes in positive caregiving were not associated with changes in mental health symptoms reported by adolescents. Improvements in adolescent-caregiver communication over time were associated with reductions in both depression (IRR=0.94, 95% CI 0.92-0.97, p<.0001) and anxiety (0.91, 95% CI 0.89-0.94, p<.0001) symptoms reported by adolescents. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight open and supportive adolescent-caregiver communication and good caregiver supervision as potential factors for guarding against mental health problems among adolescents living with HIV in South Africa. Several evidence-informed parenting programmes aim to improve adolescent-caregiver communication and caregiver supervision, and their effect on depression and anxiety among adolescents living with HIV should be rigorously tested in sub-Saharan Africa. How to improve communication in other settings, such as schools and clinics, and provide communication support for caregivers, adolescents, and service providers through these existing services should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Shenderovich
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Mark Boyes
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Michelle Degli Esposti
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Marisa Casale
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Lucie Cluver
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Haghighat R, Toska E, Bungane N, Cluver L. The HIV care cascade for adolescents initiated on antiretroviral therapy in a health district of South Africa: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:60. [PMID: 33435861 PMCID: PMC7805141 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05742-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little evidence exists to comprehensively estimate adolescent viral suppression after initiation on antiretroviral therapy in sub-Saharan Africa. This study examines adolescent progression along the HIV care cascade to viral suppression for adolescents initiated on antiretroviral therapy in South Africa. METHODS All adolescents ever initiated on antiretroviral therapy (n=1080) by 2015 in a health district of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, were interviewed in 2014-2015. Clinical records were extracted from 52 healthcare facilities through January 2018 (including records in multiple facilities). Mortality and loss to follow-up rates were corrected for transfers. Predictors of progression through the HIV care cascade were tested using sequential multivariable logistic regressions. Predicted probabilities for the effects of significant predictors were estimated by sex and mode of infection. RESULTS Corrected mortality and loss to follow-up rates were 3.3 and 16.9%, respectively. Among adolescents with clinical records, 92.3% had ≥1 viral load, but only 51.1% of viral loads were from the past 12 months. Adolescents on ART for ≥2 years (AOR 3.42 [95%CI 2.14-5.47], p< 0.001) and who experienced decentralised care (AOR 1.39 [95%CI 1.06-1.83], p=0.018) were more likely to have a recent viral load. The average effect of decentralised care on recent viral load was greater for female (AOR 2.39 [95%CI 1.29-4.43], p=0.006) and sexually infected adolescents (AOR 3.48 [95%CI 1.04-11.65], p=0.043). Of the total cohort, 47.5% were recorded as fully virally suppressed at most recent test. Only 23.2% were recorded as fully virally suppressed within the past 12 months. Younger adolescents (AOR 1.39 [95%CI 1.06-1.82], p=0.017) and those on ART for ≥2 years (AOR 1.70 [95%CI 1.12-2.58], p=0.013) were more likely to be fully viral suppressed. CONCLUSIONS Viral load recording and viral suppression rates remain low for ART-initiated adolescents in South Africa. Improved outcomes for this population require stronger engagement in care and viral load monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanna Haghighat
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 3DW, UK.
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nontuthuzelo Bungane
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 3DW, UK.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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50
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Predictors of suboptimal adherence to isoniazid preventive therapy among adolescents and children living with HIV. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243713. [PMID: 33332462 PMCID: PMC7746166 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This study identified factors associated with adherence to a 6-month isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) course among adolescents and children living with HIV. Forty adolescents living with HIV and 48 primary caregivers of children living with HIV completed a Likert-based survey to measure respondent opinions regarding access to care, quality of care, preferred regimens, perceived stigma, and confidence in self-efficacy. Sociodemographic data were collected and adherence measured as the average of pill counts obtained while on IPT. The rates of suboptimal adherence (< 95% adherent) were 22.5% among adolescents and 37.5% among the children of primary caregivers. Univariate logistic regression was used to model the change in the odds of suboptimal adherence. Independent factors associated with suboptimal adherence among adolescents included age, education level, the cost of coming to clinic, stigma from community members, and two variables relating to self-efficacy. Among primary caregivers, child age, concerns about stigma, and location preference for meeting a community-health worker were associated with suboptimal adherence. To determine whether these combined factors contributed different information to the prediction of suboptimal adherence, a risk score containing these predictors was constructed for each group. The risk score had an AUC of 0.87 (95% CI: 0.76, 0.99) among adolescents and an AUC of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.62, 0.90), among primary caregivers suggesting that these variables may have complementary predictive utility. The heterogeneous scope and associations of these variables in different populations suggests that interventions aiming to increase optimal adherence will need to be tailored to specific populations and multifaceted in nature. Ideally interventions should address both long-established barriers to adherence such as cost of transportation to attend clinic and more nuanced psychosocial barriers such as perceived community stigma and confidence in self-efficacy.
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