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Sharma M, Mambo BW, Kingston H, Otieno G, Masyuko S, Lagat H, Katz DA, Wamuti B, Macharia P, Bosire R, Mugambi M, Kariithi E, Farquhar C. Providing HIV-assisted partner services to partners of partners in western Kenya: an implementation science study. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27 Suppl 1:e26280. [PMID: 38965979 PMCID: PMC11224583 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26280] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Assisted partner services (APS), or exposure notification and HIV testing for sexual partners of persons diagnosed HIV positive (index clients), is recommended by the World Health Organization. Most APS literature focuses on outcomes among index clients and their partners. There is little data on the benefits of providing APS to partners of partners diagnosed with HIV. METHODS We utilized data from a large-scale APS implementation project across 31 facilities in western Kenya from 2018 to 2022. Females testing HIV positive at facilities were offered APS; those who consented provided contact information for all male sexual partners in the last 3 years. Male partners were notified of their potential HIV exposure and offered HIV testing services (HTS). Males newly testing positive were also offered APS and asked to provide contact information for their female partners in the last 3 years. Female partners of male partners (FPPs) were provided exposure notification and HTS. All participants with HIV were followed up at 12 months post-enrolment to assess linkage-to antiretroviral treatment (ART) and viral suppression. We compared HIV positivity, demographics and linkage outcomes among female index clients and FPPs. RESULTS Overall, 5708 FPPs were elicited from male partners, of whom 4951 received HTS through APS (87% coverage); 291 FPPs newly tested HIV positive (6% yield), an additional 1743 (35.2%) reported a prior HIV diagnosis, of whom 99% were on ART at baseline. At 12 months follow-up, most FPPs were taking ART (92%) with very few adverse events: <1% reported intimate partner violence or reported relationship dissolution. FPPs were more likely than female index clients to report HIV risk behaviours including no condom use at last sex (45% vs. 30%) and multiple partners (38% vs. 19%). CONCLUSIONS Providing HIV testing via APS to FPP is a safe and effective strategy to identify newly diagnosed females and achieve high linkage and retention to ART and can be an efficient means of identifying HIV cases in the era of declining HIV incidence. The high proportion of FPPs reporting HIV risk behaviours suggests APS may help interrupt community HIV transmission via increased knowledge of HIV status and linkage to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | | | - Hanley Kingston
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Institute of Public Health GeneticsUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | | | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Ministry of HealthNairobiKenya
| | - Harison Lagat
- School of NursingUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - David A. Katz
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Paul Macharia
- School of Computing and Engineering SciencesStrathmore UniversityNairobiKenya
| | - Rose Bosire
- Centre for Public Health ResearchKenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)NairobiKenya
| | | | | | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- School of NursingUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Meek CJ, Munkhondya TEM, Mphande M, Tembo TA, Chitani M, Jean-Baptiste M, Vansia D, Kumbuyo C, Wang J, Simon KR, Rutstein SE, Barrington C, Kim MH, Go VF, Rosenberg NE. Examining the feasibility of assisted index case testing for HIV case-finding: a qualitative analysis of barriers and facilitators to implementation in Malawi. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:606. [PMID: 38720312 PMCID: PMC11080127 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10988-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted index case testing (ICT), in which health care workers take an active role in referring at-risk contacts of people living with HIV for HIV testing services, has been widely recognized as an evidence-based intervention with high potential to increase status awareness in people living with HIV. While the available evidence from eastern and southern Africa suggests that assisted ICT can be an effective, efficient, cost-effective, acceptable, and low-risk strategy to implement in the region, it reveals that feasibility barriers to implementation exist. This study aims to inform the design of implementation strategies to mitigate these feasibility barriers by examining "assisting" health care workers' experiences of how barriers manifest throughout the assisted ICT process, as well as their perceptions of potential opportunities to facilitate feasibility. METHODS In-depth interviews were conducted with 26 lay health care workers delivering assisted ICT in Malawian health facilities. Interviews explored health care workers' experiences counseling index clients and tracing these clients' contacts, aiming to inform development of a blended learning implementation package. Transcripts were inductively analyzed using Dedoose coding software to identify and describe key factors influencing feasibility of assisted ICT. Analysis included multiple rounds of coding and iteration with the data collection team. RESULTS Participants reported a variety of barriers to feasibility of assisted index case testing implementation, including sensitivities around discussing ICT with clients, privacy concerns, limited time for assisted index case testing amid high workloads, poor quality contact information, and logistical obstacles to tracing. Participants also reported several health care worker characteristics that facilitate feasibility (knowledge, interpersonal skills, non-stigmatizing attitudes and behaviors, and a sense of purpose), as well as identified process improvements with the potential to mitigate barriers. CONCLUSIONS Maximizing assisted ICT's potential to increase status awareness in people living with HIV requires equipping health care workers with effective training and support to address and overcome the many feasibility barriers that they face in implementation. Findings demonstrate the need for, as well as inform the development of, implementation strategies to mitigate barriers and promote facilitators to feasibility of assisted ICT. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05343390. Date of registration: April 25, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline J Meek
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | | | - Mtisunge Mphande
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Tapiwa A Tembo
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Mike Chitani
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Milenka Jean-Baptiste
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dhrutika Vansia
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Caroline Kumbuyo
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Jiayu Wang
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Sarah E Rutstein
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Clare Barrington
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Maria H Kim
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Vivian F Go
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Nora E Rosenberg
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Aheron S, Paredes-Vincent A, Patton ME, Gross J, Medley A, Mona G, Mtimkulu N, Nkuna K, Grund JM. Improving HIV Case Finding Through Index Testing: Findings from Health Facilities in 12 Districts of South Africa, October 2019-September 2021. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1708-1718. [PMID: 38358586 PMCID: PMC11070287 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04269-3] [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] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
To assess the importance of index testing in HIV case finding, we analyzed quarterly data from October 2019 to September 2021 from 371 facilities in 12 districts in South Africa. Index testing accounted for 2.6% of all HIV tests (index and non-index) (n = 163,633), but 17.8% of all HIV-positive results, with an HIV-positivity 4-times higher than non-index testing modalities (4.1%). Despite twice as many adult females ≥ 15 years accepting index testing (n = 206,715) compared to adult males ≥ 15 years (n = 102,180), females identified fewer contacts (n = 91,123) than males (n = 113,939). Slightly more than half (51.2%) of all contacts elicited were tested (n = 163,633/319,680), while 19.7% (n = 62,978) of elicited contacts were previously diagnosed as HIV-positive and not eligible for further testing. These findings indicate index testing can be effective in increasing HIV diagnoses in South Africa. Further operational research is needed to address gaps identified in the index testing cascade, including elicitation and testing of contacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Aheron
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Ariana Paredes-Vincent
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Monica E Patton
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jessica Gross
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amy Medley
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gugu Mona
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Khensani Nkuna
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (WRHI), Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jonathan M Grund
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
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Rwabiyago OE, Katale A, Bingham T, Grund JM, Machangu O, Medley A, Nkomela ZM, Kayange A, King'ori GN, Juma JM, Ismail A, Kategile U, Akom E, Mlole NT, Schaad N, Maokola W, Nyagonde N, Magesa D, Kazitanga JC, Maruyama H, Temu F, Kimambo S, Sando D, Mbatia R, Chalamila ST, Ogwang BE, Njelekela MA, Kazaura K, Wong VJ, Gongo R, Njau PF, Mbunda A, Nondi J, Bateganya M, Greene J, Breda M, Mgomella G, Rwebembera A, Swaminathan M. Social network strategy (SNS) for HIV testing: a new approach for identifying individuals with undiagnosed HIV infection in Tanzania. AIDS Care 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38502602 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2307383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Social network strategy (SNS) testing uses network connections to refer individuals at high risk to HIV testing services (HTS). In Tanzania, SNS testing is offered in communities and health facilities. In communities, SNS testing targets key and vulnerable populations (KVP), while in health facilities it complements index testing by reaching unelicited index contacts. Routine data were used to assess performance and trends over time in PEPFAR-supported sites between October 2021 and March 2023. Key indicators included SNS social contacts tested, and new HIV-positives individuals identified. Descriptive and statistical analysis were conducted. Univariable and multivariable analysis were applied, and variables with P-values <0.2 at univariable analysis were considered for multivariable analysis. Overall, 121,739 SNS contacts were tested, and 7731 (6.4%) previously undiagnosed individuals living with HIV were identified. Tested contacts and identified HIV-positives were mostly aged ≥15 years (>99.7%) and females (80.6% of tests, 79.4% of HIV-positives). Most SNS contacts were tested (78,363; 64.7%) and diagnosed (6376; 82.5%) in communities. SNS tests and HIV-positives grew 11.5 and 6.1-fold respectively, from October-December 2021 to January-March 2023, with majority of clients reached in communities vs. facilities (78,763 vs. 42,976). These results indicate that SNS testing is a promising HIV case-finding approach in Tanzania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Ernest Rwabiyago
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Allen Katale
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Trista Bingham
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV and TB, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan M Grund
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ona Machangu
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Amy Medley
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV and TB, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Zeye M Nkomela
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Alick Kayange
- United States Walter Reed Army Institute of Research/Department of Defense (WRAIR/DOD), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Galal Naphtal King'ori
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - James McOllogi Juma
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Abbas Ismail
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Upendo Kategile
- United States Agency for International Development, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Eniko Akom
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Neema Tabian Mlole
- President's Office, Regional Administration and Local Government, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Nicolas Schaad
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Werner Maokola
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Nyagonde Nyagonde
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Daniel Magesa
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jaiving C Kazitanga
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Sajida Kimambo
- USAID Afya Yangu Northern Project, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - David Sando
- Management and Development for Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | | | | | - Kokuhumbya Kazaura
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Vincent J Wong
- United States Agency for International Development, Office of HIV/AIDS, Washington DC, USA
| | - Ramadhani Gongo
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Prosper Faustine Njau
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Andrea Mbunda
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Joseph Nondi
- United States Walter Reed Army Institute of Research/Department of Defense (WRAIR/DOD), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Moses Bateganya
- United States Agency for International Development, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Mark Breda
- United States Walter Reed Army Institute of Research/Department of Defense (WRAIR/DOD), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - George Mgomella
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Anath Rwebembera
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Mahesh Swaminathan
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Oljira H, Rata A, Mulatu B, Abera T. Partner notification service utilization and associated factors among clients attending anti-retroviral therapy clinics of public health facilities in Gimbi Town, West Ethiopia, 2023: a facility-based mixed-method cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:687. [PMID: 38438988 PMCID: PMC10913634 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18196-4] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Partner Notification Service is among the strategies used to conduct targeted Human Immunodeficiency Virus Testing Service by obtaining information about sexual contacts of index clients to refer for testing. But most people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus are still unaware of their status, including Ethiopia. Limited studies are available on the magnitude of partner notification service utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of partner notification service utilization and associated factors among people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus attending anti-retroviral therapy clinics of public health facilities in Gimbi town, West Ethiopia. METHODS A facility-based mixed-method cross-sectional study design was used. Total of 455 study participants were selected by systematic random sampling for quantitative data and health workers were purposively selected for qualitative data until saturation of ideas was reached. The study was conducted from December 1, 2022 to January 30, 2023. Structured questionnaires and key informant interview guides were used for data collection. Quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Open code 4.02 software was used for qualitative data analysis. Frequencies and proportions were used to summarize descriptive statistics. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify associated factors then variables with a p value < 0.05 were declared to have an association with the dependent variable. RESULT Exactly 298 (65.5%) of the study participants were notified their HIV status to their sexual partners. Factors associated with Partner Notification Service Utilization were depression AOR: 0.12 (95% CI: 0.07, 0.20), urban settlers AOR: 2.21 (95% CI: 1.2, 3.83), fear of support loss AOR: 0.24 (95% CI: 0.14, 0.40) and intimate partner violence AOR: 0.55 (95% CI: 0.31, 0.97). From qualitative part of this study, factors associated to Partner Notification service utilization were fear of stigma, discrimination and fear of divorce. CONCLUSION Two-third of the study participants were utilized partner notification service, and efforts are important to prevent depression and intimate partner violence. Local government bodies and stakeholders should implement economic strengthening and strategies to address the rural community for HIV/AIDS prevention. Promotion of supportive and inclusive environment for PLHIV should also considered as way to increase PNS utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habtamu Oljira
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Wallaga University, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia.
| | - Abiriham Rata
- Nekemte Blood Bank, Oromia Health Beuareu, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Befirdu Mulatu
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Science, Wallaga University, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Abera
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wallaga University, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia
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Ihnatiuk AP, Shapoval AY, Kazanzhy AP, Kuzin IV, Riabokon SV, Shotorbani S, McDowell MR, Golden MR, Puttkammer NH. Distinctive model for HIV index testing (IT) in Eastern Europe: results of Ukraine's physician-led, integrated IT programme. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070542. [PMID: 37730414 PMCID: PMC10514626 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effectiveness of HIV index testing (IT) in Eastern Europe has not been described. This study reports the performance of a scaled IT programme in Ukraine. DESIGN This observational study included clients enrolled in IT services in 2020, and used routinely collected data from programme registers and the national electronic health record system. SETTING The study covered 39 public-sector health facilities where IT services were integrated into medical visits for persons living with HIV (PLHIV) already enrolled in HIV care. PARTICIPANTS Participants included PLHIV with both recent (<6 months) and previously established (≥6 months) HIV diagnoses. INTERVENTION Ukraine's physician-led IT model involves a cascade of steps including voluntary informed consent, partner elicitation, selection of partner notification method and follow-up with clients to ensure partners are notified, tested for HIV and linked to HIV prevention and treatment services, as needed. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Outcomes included contact index, testing, index and HIV case-finding index disaggregated by index client (IC) subgroups, including people with current or past injection drug use (PWID) and men who have sex with men (MSM). RESULTS Of 14 525 ICs offered index testing, 51.9% accepted, of whom 98.3% named at least one sexual, injection or biological child partner. In total, 14.9% of ICs were PWID and 3.5% were MSM. Clients named 8448 unique partners (contact index=1.14). HIV case finding averaged 0.14 cases per client, and was highest among clients with recent HIV diagnosis (0.29) and among PWID (0.23), and lower among clients with established HIV diagnosis (0.07). More than 90% of all partners with new HIV diagnoses were linked to care. CONCLUSIONS There was a high case-finding index among ICs with recent HIV and high linkage to care for all partners, demonstrating the effectiveness of this integrated, physician-led model implemented in 39 health facilities in Ukraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyona P Ihnatiuk
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anna Y Shapoval
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anna P Kazanzhy
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Igor V Kuzin
- Public Health Center, Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kiiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Solmaz Shotorbani
- International Training and Education Center for Health, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Misti R McDowell
- International Training and Education Center for Health, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Matthew R Golden
- International Training and Education Center for Health, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- HIV/STD Control Program, Public Health, Seattle & King County, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nancy H Puttkammer
- International Training and Education Center for Health, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Joel JN, Awuor P, Blanco N, Lavoie MCC, Lascko T, Ngunu C, Mwangi J, Mutisya I, Ng'eno C, Wangusi R, Koech E. Scale-up of HIV index testing in an urban population: Experiences and achievements from Nairobi County, Kenya. Trop Med Int Health 2023; 28:116-125. [PMID: 36538038 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the implementation strategies of the index testing program across Nairobi County in Kenya, assess outcomes along the HIV index testing cascade (acceptance, elicitation ratio, HIV positivity and linkage to treatment), and assess annual changes along the HIV index testing cascade during the first 2 years of implementation. METHODS Retrospective analysis of programmatic aggregate data collected from October 2017 to September 2019 after the roll-out of index testing services in 48 health facilities in Nairobi County. Proportions and ratios were calculated for acceptance, elicitation ratio, testing uptake and HIV positivity. We compared these outcomes between years using a chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test or Wilcoxon sign test, and we assessed trends using the Mann-Kendall test. RESULTS Testing among eligible partners increased from 42.4% (1471/3470) to 74.9% (6114/8159) in the general population, and the positivity yield remained high across both years (25.2% in year 1 and 24.1% in year 2). Index testing positivity yield remained significantly higher than other testing modalities (24.3% vs. 1.3%, p < 0.001). The contribution of index testing services to the total number of HIV-positive individuals identified increased from 7.5% in the first year to 28.6% in the second year (p < 0.001). More men were tested, but the positivity yield was higher among women (30.0%) and those aged 50 years or older (32.4%). Testing eligible partners in key populations (KPs) decreased from 52.4% (183/349) to 40.7% (109/268) (p = 0.674); however, the HIV positivity yield increased from 8.6% to 23.9% (p < 0.001) by the second year of implementation. The HIV positivity yield from index testing remained higher than other testing modalities (14% vs. 0.9%, p < 0.001) for KPs. CONCLUSION Index testing was well-accepted and effective in identifying individuals living with HIV in a Kenyan urban setting across both general populations and KPs. Ongoing adaptations to the strategies deployed as part of index testing services helped improve most of the outcomes along the index testing cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javies Ngui Joel
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Patrick Awuor
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Natalia Blanco
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Marie-Claude C Lavoie
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Taylor Lascko
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carol Ngunu
- Department of Health, Nairobi Metropolitan Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jonathan Mwangi
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Immaculate Mutisya
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Caroline Ng'eno
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rebecca Wangusi
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Emily Koech
- Chief Executive Officer, Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
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Pollard R, Enugu A, Sriudomporn S, Bell J, Ghosh SC, Arumugam V, Mugundu P, Singh A, McFall AM, Mehta SH, Patenaude BN, Solomon SS. COVID-19 impact on index testing services and programmatic cost in 5 high HIV prevalence Indian districts. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:918. [PMID: 36482363 PMCID: PMC9733361 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07912-3] [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: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Restrictions to curb the first wave of COVID-19 in India resulted in a decline in facility-based HIV testing rates, likely contributing to increased HIV transmission and disease progression. The programmatic and economic impact of COVID-19 on index testing, a standardized contact tracing strategy, remains unknown. METHODS Retrospective programmatic and costing data were analyzed under a US government-supported program to assess the pandemic's impact on the programmatic outcomes and cost of index testing implemented in two Indian states (Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh). We compared index testing continuum outcomes during lockdown (April-June 2020) and post-lockdown (July-Sept 2020) relative to pre-lockdown (January-March 2020) by estimating adjusted rate ratios (aRRs) using negative binomial regression. Startup and recurrent programmatic costs were estimated across geographies using a micro-costing approach. Per unit costs were calculated for each index testing continuum outcome. RESULTS Pre-lockdown, 2431 index clients were offered services, 3858 contacts were elicited, 3191 contacts completed HIV testing, 858 contacts tested positive, and 695 contacts initiated ART. Compared to pre-lockdown, the number of contacts elicited decreased during lockdown (aRR = 0.13; 95% CI: 0.11-0.16) and post-lockdown (aRR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.43-0.56); and the total contacts newly diagnosed with HIV also decreased during lockdown (aRR = 0.22; 95% CI: 0.18-0.26) and post-lockdown (aRR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.45-0.59). HIV positivity increased from 27% pre-lockdown to 40% during lockdown and decreased to 26% post-lockdown. Further, ART initiation improved from 81% pre-lockdown to 88% during lockdown and post-lockdown. The overall cost to operate index testing was $193,457 pre-lockdown and decreased during lockdown to $132,177 (32%) and $126,155 (35%) post-lockdown. Post-lockdown unit cost of case identification rose in facility sites ($372) compared to pre-lockdown ($205), however it decreased in community-based sites from pre-lockdown ($277) to post-lockdown ($166). CONCLUSIONS There was a dramatic decline in the number of index testing clients in the wake of COVID-19 restrictions that resulted in higher unit costs to deliver services; yet, improved linkage to ART suggests that decongesting centres could improve efficiency. Training index testing staff to provide support across services including non-facility-based HIV testing mechanisms (i.e., telemedicine, HIV self-testing, community-based approaches) may help optimize resources during public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Pollard
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of International Health, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Ajay Enugu
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Division of Infectious Diseases, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Salin Sriudomporn
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 415 N Washington St, Baltimore, MD 21231 USA
| | - Jade Bell
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Division of Infectious Diseases, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Subash Chandra Ghosh
- grid.433847.f0000 0000 9555 1294Y.R. Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education (YRG CARE), 58 Harrington Road, Chetput, Chennai, 600031 India
| | - Visvanathan Arumugam
- grid.433847.f0000 0000 9555 1294Y.R. Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education (YRG CARE), 58 Harrington Road, Chetput, Chennai, 600031 India
| | - Parthasarathy Mugundu
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Division of Infectious Diseases, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Aditya Singh
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Division of Infectious Diseases, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Allison M. McFall
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Epidemiology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Shruti H. Mehta
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Epidemiology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Bryan N. Patenaude
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of International Health, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Sunil S. Solomon
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Division of Infectious Diseases, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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9
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Musanhu CCC, Takarinda KC, Shea J, Chitsike I, Eley B. Viral load testing among pregnant women living with HIV in Mutare district of Manicaland province, Zimbabwe. AIDS Res Ther 2022; 19:52. [PMID: 36384677 PMCID: PMC9667426 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-022-00480-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Viral load (VL) monitoring of pregnant women living with HIV (PWLHIV) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) may contribute to lowering the risk of vertical transmission of HIV. The aims of this study were to assess the uptake of HIV VL testing among PWLHIV at entry to the prevention-of-mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services and identify facilitatory factors and barriers to HIV VL access. METHODS A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at 15 health facilities in Mutare district, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe from January to December 2018. This analysis was complemented by prospective interviews with PWLHIV and health care providers between October 2019 and March 2020. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Risk factors were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression. Open-ended questions were analysed and recurring and shared experiences and perceptions of PWLHIV and health care providers identified. RESULTS Among 383 PWLHIV, enrolled in antenatal care (ANC) and receiving ART, only 121 (31.6%) had a VL sample collected and 106 (88%) received their results. Among these 106 women, 93 (87.7%) had a VL < 1000 copies/mL and 77 (73%) a VL < 50 copies/mL. The overall median duration from ANC booking to VL sample collection was 87 (IQR, 7-215) days. The median time interval for the return of VL results from date of sample collection was 14 days (IQR, 7-30). There was no significant difference when this variable was stratified by time of ART initiation. VL samples were significantly less likely to be collected at local authority compared to government facilities (aOR = 0.28; 95% CI 0.16-0.48). Barriers to VL testing included staff shortages, non-availability of consumables and sub-optimal sample transportation. Turnaround time was prolonged by the manual results feedback system. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION The low rate of HIV VL testing among PWLHIV in Mutare district is a cause for concern. To reverse this situation, the Ministry of Health should consider interventions such as disseminating antiretroviral guidelines and policies electronically, conducting regular PMTCT mentorship for clinical staff members, and utilising point of care testing and telecommunication devices like mHealth to increase uptake of VL testing and improve results turnaround time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Chiedza Chakanyuka Musanhu
- World Health Organization Country Office, Highlands, P.O.Box HG 430, Harare, Zimbabwe ,grid.415818.1AIDS & TB Department, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe ,grid.7836.a0000 0004 1937 1151Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Jawaya Shea
- grid.7836.a0000 0004 1937 1151Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Inam Chitsike
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Brian Eley
- grid.7836.a0000 0004 1937 1151Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa ,grid.415742.10000 0001 2296 3850Paediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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10
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Edosa M, Merdassa E, Turi E. Acceptance of Index Case HIV Testing and Its Associated Factors Among HIV/AIDS Clients on ART Follow-Up in West Ethiopia: A Multi-Centered Facility-Based Cross-Sectional Study. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:451-460. [PMID: 36199377 PMCID: PMC9528797 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s372795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Index case HIV/AIDS testing (ICHT) is a good approach for addressing and improving the efficiency and yield of testing among high-risk populations. Partners and families of people living with HIV/AIDS are among the high-risk populations for contracting HIV/AIDS. However, there is limited study on index case HIV testing among HIV patients attending Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART). Hence, this study was aimed at assessing the magnitude and factors associated with ICHT among HIV patients attending ART in Nekemte town public health facilities. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Nekemte town public health facilities from May 20 to July 21, 2020. A systematic random sampling method was used to select the study participants. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine the predictors of acceptance of ICHT among HIV patients. Results The ICHT acceptance was 85.2% (95% CI=84.9–91.1%). Disclosure of their HIV status (AOR=9.74, 95% CI=4.11–23.06), having good knowledge of ICHT (AOR=4.70, 95% CI=1.92–11.61), believing HIV index case testing has benefits (AOR=3.43, 95% CI=1.27–9.29), and being on ART for more than 1 year (AOR=4.78, 95% CI=2.13–10.76) were significantly associated with index case HIV test acceptance. Conclusion and Recommendation This study revealed a significant proportion of index case HIV testing acceptance. HIV status disclosure of index cases, knowledge of ICHT, the perceived benefit of ICHT, and long duration on ART were found to be significantly associated with acceptance of ICHT. Hence, it is essential to give attention to counseling on the importance of ICHT, enhance people living with HIV (PLWHIV) to have positive belief on the advantage of ICHT, strengthen disclosure counseling, and assist HIV status disclosure in health facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misganu Edosa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Emiru Merdassa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Ebisa Turi
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
- Deakin Health Economics, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Correspondence: Ebisa Turi, Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia, Tel +251917686021, Fax +251576617980, Email
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11
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Mannoh I, Amundsen D, Turpin G, Lyons CE, Viswasam N, Hahn E, Ryan S, Baral S, Hansoti B. A Systematic Review of HIV Testing Implementation Strategies in Sub-Saharan African Countries. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1660-1671. [PMID: 34797449 PMCID: PMC9426653 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03518-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
HIV/AIDS remains a looming presence in public health across the world, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. The HIV Care Cascade hinges on testing and knowledge of HIV status. Though significant advances have been made in diagnosing people living with HIV (PLHIV), limitations in understanding which strategies are best suited to certain regions or populations have contributed to the uneven distribution in the success of various HIV testing strategies. Here, we present a conceptual framework that outlines effective HIV testing strategies for four target groups. This framework is based on a systematic literature review of articles published from January 1st, 2008, to December 31st, 2019. The effectiveness of HIV testing strategies depends on various factors including the setting, type of test and service providers. Multiple strategies are needed to reach the UNAIDS target of 95% of individuals knowing their HIV status. Expansion of community-based approaches, self-testing and HIV testing services in antenatal care will further improve the state of HIV testing in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivy Mannoh
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Gnilane Turpin
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carrie E Lyons
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nikita Viswasam
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sofia Ryan
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bhakti Hansoti
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Medicine Suite 200, 5801 Smith Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21209, USA.
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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12
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Sundararajan R, Ponticiello M, Nansera D, Jeremiah K, Muyindike W. Interventions to Increase HIV Testing Uptake in Global Settings. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:184-193. [PMID: 35441985 PMCID: PMC9110462 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00602-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review HIV testing is the critical first step to direct people living with HIV (PLWH) to treatment. However, progress is still being made towards the UNAIDS benchmark of 95% of PLWH knowing their status by 2030. Here, we discuss recent interventions to improve HIV testing uptake in global settings. Recent Findings Successful facility-based HIV testing interventions involve couples and index testing, partner notification, and offering of incentives. Community-based interventions such as home-based self-testing, mobile outreach, and hybrid approaches have improved HIV testing in low-resource settings and among priority populations. Partnerships with trusted community leaders have also increased testing among populations disproportionally impacted by HIV. Summary Recent HIV testing interventions span a breadth of facility- and community-based approaches. Continued research is needed to engage men in sub-Saharan Africa, people who inject drugs, and people who avoid biomedical care. Interventions should consider supporting linkage to care for newly diagnosed PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Sundararajan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 East 68th Street, M-130, New York, NY, 10065, USA. .,Weill Cornell Center for Global Health, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Matthew Ponticiello
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 East 68th Street, M-130, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Denis Nansera
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda.,Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Winnie Muyindike
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda.,Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
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13
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Rosenberg NE, Tembo TA, Simon KR, Mollan K, Rutstein SE, Mwapasa V, Masiano S, Huffstetler HE, Go V, Kim MH. Development of a Blended Learning Approach to Delivering HIV-Assisted Contact Tracing in Malawi: Applied Theory and Formative Research. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e32899. [PMID: 35438644 PMCID: PMC9066333 DOI: 10.2196/32899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite progress toward the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS “95-95-95” targets (95% of HIV-positive persons tested, 95% of tested persons on treatment, and 95% of treated persons virally suppressed), a gap remains in achieving the first 95% target. Assisted contact tracing (ACT), in which health workers support HIV-positive index clients to recruit their contacts (sexual partners and children) for HIV testing, efficiently identifies HIV-positive persons in need of treatment. Although many countries, including Malawi, began implementing ACT, testing outcomes in routine settings have been worse than those in trial settings. Objective The aim of this paper is to use formative research and frameworks to develop and digitize an implementation package to bridge the gap between ACT research and practice. Methods Semistructured qualitative research was conducted in 2019 in Malawi with key informants. Barriers and facilitators to intervention delivery were identified using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Approaches to digitization were examined using human-centered design principles. Results Limited clinic coordination and health worker capacity to address the complexities of ACT were identified as barriers. Ongoing individual training consisting of learning, observing, practicing, and receiving feedback, as well as group problem-solving were identified as facilitators. Important features of digitization included (1) culturally relevant visual content, (2) capability of offline use, and (3) simple designs and basic editing to keep costs low. Conclusions Formative research and frameworks played a key role in designing and digitizing an implementation package for ACT delivery in a low-income setting such as Malawi.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tapiwa A Tembo
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Katherine R Simon
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi.,Baylor College of Medicine International Pediatric AIDS Initiative, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Katie Mollan
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Sarah E Rutstein
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | | | - Steven Masiano
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Vivian Go
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Maria H Kim
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi.,Baylor College of Medicine International Pediatric AIDS Initiative, Houston, TX, United States
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14
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Rucinski K, Masankha Banda L, Olawore O, Akolo C, Zakaliya A, Chilongozi D, Schwartz S, Wilcher R, Persaud N, Ruberintwari M, Baral S. HIV Testing Approaches to Optimize Prevention and Treatment for Key and Priority Populations in Malawi. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac038. [PMID: 35265725 PMCID: PMC8900928 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite progress in improving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people with HIV in Malawi, the burden of HIV infections and HIV treatment outcomes among key populations is suboptimal. Client-centered differentiated service delivery approaches may facilitate addressing HIV prevention and treatment needs of key populations in Malawi. Methods De-identified program data routinely collected as part of the LINKAGES project–Malawi were assembled from October 2017 to September 2019. HIV case finding was compared across different testing modalities for each population. Poisson regression was used to estimate the association between testing modalities and ART initiation. Results Of the 18 397 people included in analyses, 10 627 (58%) were female sex workers (FSWs), 2219 (12%) were men who have sex with men (MSM), and 4970 (27%) were clients of FSWs. HIV case finding varied by modality and population, with index testing and enhanced peer outreach demonstrating high yield despite reaching relatively few individuals. FSWs who tested positive through risk network referral testing were more likely to initiate ART within 30 days compared with those who tested positive through clinic-based testing (adjusted risk ratio [aRR], 1.50; 95% CI, 1.23–1.82). For MSM, index testing (aRR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.06–2.00) and testing through a drop-in center (aRR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.19–2.78) were associated with 30-day ART initiation. Conclusions These data suggest that differentiated HIV testing and outreach approaches tailored to the needs of different key populations may facilitate improved ART initiation in Malawi. Achieving 0 new infections by 2030 suggests the need to adapt treatment strategies given individual and structural barriers to treatment for key populations with HIV in high-prevalence settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Rucinski
- Social and Behavioral Interventions Program, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Oluwasolape Olawore
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | | | - Sheree Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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15
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Haas AD, Radin E, Birhanu S, Low AJ, Saito S, Sachathep K, Balachandra S, Manjengwa J, Duong YT, Jonnalagadda S, Payne D, Bello G, Hakim AJ, Smart T, Ahmed N, Cuervo-Rojas J, Auld A, Patel H, Parekh B, Williams DB, Barradas DT, Mugurungi O, Mulenga LB, Voetsch AC, Justman JE. Prevalence of and factors associated with late diagnosis of HIV in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe: Results from population-based nationally representative surveys. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000080. [PMID: 36962254 PMCID: PMC10021857 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Late diagnosis of HIV (LD) increases the risk of morbidity, mortality, and HIV transmission. We used nationally representative data from population-based HIV impact assessment (PHIA) surveys in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe (2015-2016) to characterize adults at risk of LD and to examine associations between LD and presumed HIV transmission to cohabiting sexual partners. METHODS We estimated the prevalence of LD, defined as CD4 count <350 cells/μL, among adults newly diagnosed with HIV during the surveys and odds ratios for associated factors. We linked newly diagnosed adults (index cases) to their household sexual partners and calculated adjusted odds ratios for associations between LD of the index case, viral load of the index case, and duration of HIV exposure in the relationship, and the HIV status of the household sexual partner. RESULTS Of 1,804 adults who were newly diagnosed with HIV in the surveys, 49% (882) were diagnosed late. LD was associated with male sex, older age, and almost five times the odds of having an HIV-positive household sexual partner (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.65 [95% confidence interval: 2.56-8.45]). Longer duration of HIV exposure in a relationship and higher viral load of the index case were both independently associated with higher odds of having HIV-positive household sexual partners. Individuals with HIV exposure of more than 5 years had more than three times (aOR 3.42 [95% CI: 1.63-7.18]) higher odds of being HIV positive than those with less than 2 years HIV exposure. The odds of being HIV positive were increased in individuals who were in a relationship with an index case with a viral load of 400-3499 copies/mL (aOR 4.06 [95% CI 0.45-36.46]), 3,500-9,999 copies/mL (aOR 11.32 [95% CI: 4.08-31.39]), 10,000-49,999 copies/mL (aOR 17.07 [95% CI: 9.18-31.72]), and ≥50,000 copies/mL (aOR 28.41 [95% CI: 12.18-66.28]) compared to individuals who were in a relationship with an index case with a viral load of <400 copies/mL. CONCLUSIONS LD remains a challenge in Southern Africa and is strongly associated with presumed HIV transmission to household sexual partners. Our study underscores the need for earlier HIV diagnosis, particularly among men and older adults, and the importance of index testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas D Haas
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Elizabeth Radin
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Sehin Birhanu
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Andrea J Low
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Suzue Saito
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | | | - Julius Manjengwa
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Yen T Duong
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Sasi Jonnalagadda
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Danielle Payne
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - George Bello
- Government of Malawi, Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Avi J Hakim
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Theo Smart
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Nahima Ahmed
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Juliana Cuervo-Rojas
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Andrew Auld
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Hetal Patel
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Bharat Parekh
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Daniel B Williams
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | | | - Owen Mugurungi
- Government of Zimbabwe, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Andrew C Voetsch
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jessica E Justman
- ICAP, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
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16
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'It is not fashionable to suffer nowadays': Community motivations to repeatedly participate in outreach HIV testing indicate UHC potential in Tanzania. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261408. [PMID: 34937061 PMCID: PMC8694479 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study examined people’s motivations for (repeatedly) utilizing HIV testing services during community-based testing events in urban and rural Shinyanga, Tanzania and potential implications for Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Methods As part of a broader multidisciplinary study on the implementation of a HIV Test and Treat model in Shinyanga Region, Tanzania, this ethnographic study focused on community-based testing campaigns organised by the implementing partner. Between April 2018 and December 2019, we conducted structured observations (24), short questionnaires (42) and in-depth interviews with HIV-positive (23) and HIV-negative clients (8). Observations focused on motivations for (re-)testing, and the counselling and testing process. Thematic analysis based on inductive and deductive coding was completed using NVivo software. Results Regular HIV testing was encouraged by counsellors. Most participants in testing campaigns were HIV-negative; 51.1% had tested more than once over their lifetimes. Testing campaigns provided an accessible way to learn one’s HIV status. Motivations for repeat testing included: monitoring personal health to achieve (temporary) reassurance, having low levels of trust toward sexual partners, feeling at risk, seeking proof of (ill)-health, and acting responsibly. Repeat testers also associated testing with a desire to start treatment early to preserve a healthy-looking body, should they prove HIV positive. Conclusions Community-based testing campaigns serve three valuable functions related to HIV prevention and treatment: 1) enable community members to check their HIV status regularly as part of a personalized prevention strategy that reinforces responsible behaviour; 2) identify recently sero-converted clients who would not otherwise be targeted; and 3) engage community with general prevention and care messaging and services. This model could be expanded to include routine management of other (chronic) diseases and provide an entry for scaling up UHC.
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Williams D, MacKellar D, Dlamini M, Byrd J, Dube L, Mndzebele P, Mazibuko S, Ao T, Pathmanathan I, Beyer A, Ryan C. HIV testing and ART initiation among partners, family members, and high-risk associates of index clients participating in the CommLink linkage case management program, Eswatini, 2016-2018. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261605. [PMID: 34928998 PMCID: PMC8687549 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To help diagnose and initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥95% of all persons living with HIV (PLHIV), the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends offering HIV testing to biological children, and sexual and needle-sharing partners of all PLHIV (index-client testing, ICT). Many index clients, however, do not identify or have contactable partners, and often substantially fewer than 95% of HIV-positive partners initiate ART soon after index testing. To help improve early HIV diagnosis and ART initiation in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), we implemented a community-based HIV testing and peer-delivered, linkage case management program (CommLink) that provided ICT as part of a comprehensive package of WHO recommended linkage services. CommLink was implemented June 2015 -March 2017 (Phase I), and April 2017 -September 2018 (Phase II). In addition to biological children and partners, HIV testing was offered to adult family members (Phases I and II) and high-risk associates including friends and acquaintances (Phase II) of CommLink index clients. Compared with Phase I, in Phase II proportionally more CommLink clients disclosed their HIV-infection status to a partner or family member [94% (562/598) vs. 75% (486/652)], and had ≥1 partners, family members, or high-risk associates (contacts) tested through CommLink [41% (245/598) vs. 18% (117/652)]. Of 537 contacts tested, 253 (47%) were HIV-positive and not currently in HIV care, including 17% (17/100) of family members aged <15 years, 42% (78/187) of non-partner family members aged ≥15 years, 60% (73/121) of sexual partners, and 66% (85/129) of high-risk associates. Among 210 HIV-positive contacts aged ≥15 years who participated in CommLink, nearly all received recommended linkage services including treatment navigation (95%), weekly telephone follow-up (93%), and ≥3 counseling sessions (94%); peer counselors resolved 76% (306/404) of identified barriers to care (e.g., perceived wellness); and 200 (95%) initiated ART at a healthcare facility, of whom 196 (98%) received at least one antiretroviral refill before case-management services ended. To help countries achieve ≥90% ART coverage among all PLHIV, expanding ICT for adult family members and high-risk associates of index clients, and providing peer-delivered linkage case management for all identified PLHIV, should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Williams
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Duncan MacKellar
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Makhosazana Dlamini
- Eswatini Country Program, Population Services International, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Johnita Byrd
- ICF International, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Lenhle Dube
- National AIDS Programme, Eswatini Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Phumzile Mndzebele
- Eswatini Country Office, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Sikhathele Mazibuko
- Eswatini Country Office, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Trong Ao
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Ishani Pathmanathan
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Alysha Beyer
- Abt Associates Inc, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Caroline Ryan
- Eswatini Country Office, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mbabane, Eswatini
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Kamanga J, Stankevitz K, Martinez A, Chiegil R, Nyirenda L, Mulenga F, Chen M, Mpofu M, Lubasi S, Bateganya M. Improved HIV case finding among key populations after differentiated data driven community testing approaches in Zambia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258573. [PMID: 34855752 PMCID: PMC8638925 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Open Doors, an HIV prevention project targeting key populations in Zambia, recorded low HIV positivity rates (9%) among HIV testing clients, compared to national adult prevalence (12.3%), suggesting case finding efficiency could be improved. To close this gap, they undertook a series of targeted programmatic and management interventions. We share the outcomes of these interventions, specifically changes in testing volume, HIV positivity rate, and total numbers of key populations living with HIV identified. Methods The project implemented a range of interventions to improve HIV case finding using a Total Quality Leadership and Accountability (TQLA) approach. We analyzed program data for key populations who received HIV testing six months before the interventions (October 2017–March 2018) and 12 months after (April 2018–March 2019). Interrupted time series analysis was used to evaluate the impact on HIV positivity and total case finding and trends in positivity and case finding over time, before and after the interventions. Results While the monthly average number of HIV tests performed increased by only 14% post-intervention, the monthly average number of HIV positive individuals identified increased by 290%. The average HIV positivity rate rose from 9.7% to 32.4%. Positivity rates and case finding remained significantly higher in all post-intervention months. Similar trends were observed among FSW and MSM. Conclusions The Open Doors project was able to reach large numbers of previously undiagnosed key populations by implementing a targeted managerial and technical intervention, resulting in a significant increase in the HIV positivity rate sustained over 12 months. These results demonstrate that differentiated, data-driven approaches can help close the 95-95-95 gaps among key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kayla Stankevitz
- FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Robert Chiegil
- FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | | | - Mario Chen
- FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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Tippett Barr BA, Lowrance D, Johnson CC, Baggaley RC, Rogers JH, Balachandra SK, Barker J, Kalua T, Bunga S, Low-Beer D, Payne D, Bulterys MG, Jahn A. Treatment-adjusted prevalence to assess HIV testing programmes. Bull World Health Organ 2021; 99:874-882. [PMID: 34866683 PMCID: PMC8640683 DOI: 10.2471/blt.21.286388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Scale-up of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV has been increasing in sub-Saharan Africa. As a result, areas with high HIV prevalence are finding a declining proportion of people testing positive in their national testing programmes. In eastern and southern Africa, where there are settings with adult HIV prevalence of 12% and above, the positivity from national HIV testing services has dropped to below 5%. Identifying those in need of ART is therefore becoming more costly for national HIV programmes. Annual target-setting assumes that national testing positivity rates approximate that of population prevalence. This assumption has generated an increased focus on testing approaches which achieve higher rates of HIV positivity. This trend is a departure from the provider-initiated testing and counselling strategy used early in the global HIV response. We discuss a new indicator, treatment-adjusted prevalence, that countries can use as a practical benchmark for estimating the expected adult positivity in a testing programme when accounting for both national HIV prevalence and ART coverage. The indicator is calculated by removing those people receiving ART from the numerator and denominator of HIV prevalence. Treatment-adjusted prevalence can be readily estimated from existing programme data and population estimates, and in 2019, was added to the World Health Organization guidelines for HIV testing and strategic information. Using country examples from Kenya, Malawi, South Sudan and Zimbabwe we illustrate how to apply this indicator and we discuss the potential public health implications of its use from the national to facility level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth A Tippett Barr
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, PO Box 606, Village Market, 00621 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Lowrance
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cheryl Case Johnson
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Clare Baggaley
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - John H Rogers
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV & Tuberculosis, Zimbabwe
| | - Shirish K Balachandra
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV & Tuberculosis, Zimbabwe
| | - Joseph Barker
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, PO Box 606, Village Market, 00621 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Thokozani Kalua
- Ministry of Health, Department of HIV/AIDS, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Sudhir Bunga
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV & Tuberculosis, Juba, South Sudan
| | - Daniel Low-Beer
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Danielle Payne
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV & Tuberculosis, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Marc G Bulterys
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, PO Box 606, Village Market, 00621 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Andreas Jahn
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), University of Washington, Seattle, United States of America
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Shelby T, Caruthers T, Kanner OY, Schneider R, Lipnickas D, Grau LE, Manohar R, Niccolai L. Pilot Evaluations of Two Bluetooth Contact Tracing Approaches on a University Campus: Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e31086. [PMID: 34586078 PMCID: PMC8555945 DOI: 10.2196/31086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many have proposed the use of Bluetooth technology to help scale up contact tracing for COVID-19. However, much remains unknown about the accuracy of this technology in real-world settings, the attitudes of potential users, and the differences between delivery formats (mobile app vs carriable or wearable devices). OBJECTIVE We pilot tested 2 separate Bluetooth contact tracing technologies on a university campus to evaluate their sensitivity and specificity, and to learn from the experiences of the participants. METHODS We used a convergent mixed methods study design, and participants included graduate students and researchers working on a university campus during June and July 2020. We conducted separate 2-week pilot studies for each Bluetooth technology. The first was for a mobile phone app ("app pilot"), and the second was for a small electronic "tag" ("tag pilot"). Participants validated a list of Bluetooth-identified contacts daily and reported additional close contacts not identified by Bluetooth. We used these data to estimate sensitivity and specificity. Participants completed a postparticipation survey regarding appropriateness, usability, acceptability, and adherence, and provided additional feedback via free text. We used tests of proportions to evaluate differences in survey responses between participants from each pilot, paired t tests to measure differences between compatible survey questions, and qualitative analysis to evaluate the survey's free-text responses. RESULTS Among 25 participants in the app pilot, 53 contact interactions were identified by Bluetooth and an additional 61 by self-report. Among 17 participants in the tag pilot, 171 contact interactions were identified by Bluetooth and an additional 4 by self-report. The tag had significantly higher sensitivity compared with the app (46/49, 94% vs 35/61, 57%; P<.001), as well as higher specificity (120/126, 95% vs 123/141, 87%; P=.02). Most participants felt that Bluetooth contact tracing was appropriate on campus (26/32, 81%), while significantly fewer participants felt that using other technologies, such as GPS or Wi-Fi, was appropriate (17/31, 55%; P=.02). Most participants preferred technology developed and managed by the university rather than a third party (27/32, 84%) and preferred not to have tracing apps on their personal phones (21/32, 66%), due to "concerns with privacy." There were no significant differences in self-reported adherence rates across pilots. CONCLUSIONS Convenient and carriable Bluetooth technology may improve tracing efficiency while alleviating privacy concerns by shifting data collection away from personal devices. With accuracy comparable to, and in this case, superior to, mobile phone apps, such approaches may be suitable for workplace or school settings with the ability to purchase and maintain physical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Shelby
- Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases Department, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Tyler Caruthers
- Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases Department, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Oren Y Kanner
- Information and Technology Services, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Rebecca Schneider
- Information and Technology Services, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Dana Lipnickas
- Information and Technology Services, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Lauretta E Grau
- Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases Department, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Rajit Manohar
- Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Linda Niccolai
- Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases Department, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
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21
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Vasantharoopan A, Maheswaran H, Simms V, Dziva Chikwari C, Chigwenah T, Chikodzore R, Nyathi K, Ncube G, Ferrand RA, Guinness L. A costing analysis of B-GAP: index-linked HIV testing for children and adolescents in Zimbabwe. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:1082. [PMID: 34641871 PMCID: PMC8507161 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07070-3] [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: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background By testing children and adolescents of HIV positive caretakers, index-linked HIV testing, a targeted HIV testing strategy, has the ability to identify high risk children and adolescents earlier and more efficiently, compared to blanket testing. We evaluated the incremental cost of integrating index-linked HIV testing via three modalities into HIV services in Zimbabwe. Methods A mixture of bottom-up and top-down costing was employed to estimate the provider cost per test and per HIV diagnosis for 2–18 year olds, through standard of care testing, and the incremental cost of index-linked HIV testing via three modalities: facility-based testing, home-based testing by a healthcare worker, and testing at home by the caregiver using an oral mucosal transudate test. In addition to interviews, direct observation and study process data, facility registries were abstracted to extract outcome data and resource use. Costs were converted to 2019 constant US$. Results The average cost per standard of care test in urban facilities was US$5.91 and US$7.15 at the rural facility. Incremental cost of an index-linked HIV test was driven by the uptake and number of participants tested. The lowest cost approach in the urban setting was home-based testing (US$6.69) and facility-based testing at the rural clinic (US$5.36). Testing by caregivers was almost always the most expensive option (rural US$62.49, urban US$17.49). Conclusions This is the first costing analysis of index-linked HIV testing strategies. Unit costs varied across sites and with uptake. When scaling up, alternative testing solutions that increase efficiency such as index-linked HIV testing of the entire household, as opposed to solely targeting children/adolescents, need to be explored. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-021-07070-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthi Vasantharoopan
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | | | - Victoria Simms
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tariro Chigwenah
- Health Economics Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rudo Chikodzore
- Matebeleland South, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Khulamuzi Nyathi
- City Health Department, Bulawayo City Council, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Rashida A Ferrand
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lorna Guinness
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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22
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Shelby T, Schenck C, Weeks B, Goodwin J, Hennein R, Zhou X, Spiegelman D, Grau LE, Niccolai L, Bond M, Davis JL. Lessons Learned From COVID-19 Contact Tracing During a Public Health Emergency: A Prospective Implementation Study. Front Public Health 2021; 9:721952. [PMID: 34490198 PMCID: PMC8417826 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.721952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Contact tracing is a core element of the public health response to emerging infectious diseases including COVID-19. Better understanding the implementation context of contact tracing for pandemics, including individual- and systems-level predictors of success, is critical to preparing for future epidemics. Methods: We carried out a prospective implementation study of an emergency volunteer contact tracing program established in New Haven, Connecticut between April 4 and May 19, 2020. We assessed the yield and timeliness of case and contact outreach in reference to CDC benchmarks, and identified individual and programmatic predictors of successful implementation using multivariable regression models. We synthesized our findings using the RE-AIM implementation framework. Results: Case investigators interviewed only 826 (48%) of 1,705 cases and were unable to reach 545 (32%) because of incomplete information and 334 (20%) who missed or declined repeated outreach calls. Contact notifiers reached just 687 (28%) of 2,437 reported contacts, and were unable to reach 1,597 (66%) with incomplete information and 153 (6%) who missed or declined repeated outreach calls. The median time-to-case-interview was 5 days and time-to-contact-notification 8 days. However, among notified contacts with complete time data, 457 (71%) were reached within 6 days of exposure. The least likely groups to be interviewed were elderly (adjusted relative risk, aRR 0.74, 95% CI 0.61-0.89, p = 0.012, vs. young adult) and Black/African-American cases (aRR 0.88, 95% CI 0.80-0.97, pairwise p = 0.01, vs. Hispanic/Latinx). However, ties between cases and their contacts strongly influenced contact notification success (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) 0.60). Surging caseloads and high volunteer turnover (case investigator n = 144, median time from sign-up to retirement from program was 4 weeks) required the program to supplement the volunteer workforce with paid public health nurses. Conclusions: An emergency volunteer-run contact tracing program fell short of CDC benchmarks for time and yield, largely due to difficulty collecting the information required for outreach to cases and contacts. To improve uptake, contact tracing programs must professionalize the workforce; better integrate testing and tracing services; capitalize on positive social influences between cases and contacts; and address racial and age-related disparities through enhanced community engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Shelby
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | | - Brian Weeks
- New Haven Health Department, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Justin Goodwin
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Rachel Hennein
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States.,Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Science, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Donna Spiegelman
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States.,Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Science, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Lauretta E Grau
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Linda Niccolai
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Maritza Bond
- New Haven Health Department, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - J Lucian Davis
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States.,Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Science, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States.,Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Section, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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23
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Koris AL, Stewart KA, Ritchwood TD, Mususa D, Ncube G, Ferrand RA, McHugh G. Youth-friendly HIV self-testing: Acceptability of campus-based oral HIV self-testing among young adult students in Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253745. [PMID: 34185815 PMCID: PMC8241036 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeted HIV testing strategies are needed to reach remaining undiagnosed people living with HIV and achieve the UNAIDS' 95-95-95 goals for 2030. HIV self-testing (HIVST) can increase uptake of HIV testing among young people, but user perspectives on novel distribution methods are uncertain. We assess the acceptability, perceived challenges, and recommendations of young adult lay counselor-led campus-based HIVST delivery among tertiary school students aged 18-24 years in Zimbabwe. METHODS We purposively sampled participants from an intervention involving campus-based HIVST using lay workers for distribution. We conducted in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) among young adults from 10 universities and colleges in Zimbabwe who: (1) self-tested on campus; (2) self-tested off campus; and (3) opted not to self-test. We audio recorded and transcribed all interviews. Using applied thematic analysis, two investigators identified emergent themes and independently coded transcripts, achieving high inter-coder agreement. RESULTS Of the 52 young adults (53.8% male, 46.1% female) interviewed through 26 IDIs and four FGDs, most IDI participants (19/26, 73%) favored campus-based HIVST, describing it as a more autonomous, convenient, and socially acceptable experience than other facility or community-based HIV testing services. Despite general acceptability, participants identified challenges with this delivery model, including: perceived social coercion, insufficient privacy and access to post-test counseling. These challenges influenced some participants to opt against self-testing (6/52, 11.5%). Recommendations for improved implementation included integrating secondary distribution of test kits and increased HIV counseling options into campus-based programs. CONCLUSIONS Barriers to HIV testing among young people are numerous and complex. As the number of new HIV infections among youth continue to grow worldwide, targeted strategies and youth friendly approaches that increase access to testing are needed to close the diagnostic coverage gap. This is the first study to describe young adult acceptance of campus-based delivery of HIVST by lay counselors in Zimbabwe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L. Koris
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Kearsley A. Stewart
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Tiarney D. Ritchwood
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
- Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Daniel Mususa
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Rashida A. Ferrand
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Grace McHugh
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
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24
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Kariithi E, Sharma M, Kemunto E, Lagat H, Otieno G, Wamuti BM, Katz DA, Obong'o C, Macharia P, Bosire R, Masyuko S, Mugambi M, Levin CE, Liu W, Roy Paladhi U, Weiner BJ, Farquhar C. Using Assisted Partner Services for HIV Testing and the Treatment of Males and Their Female Sexual Partners: Protocol for an Implementation Science Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e27262. [PMID: 34014172 PMCID: PMC8176338 DOI: 10.2196/27262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the effective scale-up of HIV testing and treatment programs, only 75% of people living with HIV (PLWH) globally know their status, and this rate is lower among men. This highlights the importance of implementing HIV testing and linkage interventions with a high uptake in this population. In a cluster randomized controlled trial conducted in Kenya between 2013 and 2015, we found that assisted partner services (APS) for HIV-exposed partners of newly diagnosed PLWH safely reached more HIV-exposed individuals with HIV testing compared with client referral alone. However, more data are needed to evaluate APS implementation in a real-world setting. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness, acceptability, fidelity, and cost of APS when integrated into existing HIV testing services (HTS) in Western Kenya. METHODS Our study team from the University of Washington and PATH is integrating APS into 31 health facilities in Western Kenya. We are enrolling females newly diagnosed with HIV (index clients) who consent to receiving APS, their male sexual partners, and female sexual partners of male sexual partners who tested HIV positive. Female index clients and sexual partners testing HIV positive will be followed up at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months postenrollment to assess linkage to care, antiretroviral therapy initiation, and HIV viral load suppression. We will evaluate the acceptability, fidelity, and cost of real-world implementation of APS via in-depth interviews conducted with national, county, and subcounty-level policy makers responsible for HTS. Facility health staff providing HTS and APS, in addition to staff working with the study project team, will also be interviewed. We will also conduct direct observations of facility infrastructure and clinical procedures and extract data from the facilities and county and national databases. RESULTS As of March 2020, we have recruited 1724 female index clients, 3201 male partners, and 1585 female partners. We have completed study recruitment as well as 6-week (2936/2973, 98.75%), 6-month (1596/1641, 97.25%), and 12-month (725/797, 90.9%) follow-up visits. Preliminary analyses show that facilities scaling up APS identify approximately 12-18 new HIV-positive males for every 100 men contacted and tested. We are currently completing the remaining follow-up interviews and incorporating an HIV self-testing component into the study in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS The results will help bridge the gap between clinical research findings and real-world practice and provide guidance regarding optimal strategies for APS integration into routine HIV service delivery. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/27262.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Beatrice M Wamuti
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - David A Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Christopher Obong'o
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Paul Macharia
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Rose Bosire
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Carol E Levin
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Wenjia Liu
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Unmesha Roy Paladhi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Bryan J Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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Partner Notification Approaches for Sex Partners and Children of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Index Cases in Côte d'Ivoire. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 47:450-457. [PMID: 32541304 PMCID: PMC7294752 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Four partner notification approaches were introduced in health facilities in Côte d'Ivoire to increase human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing uptake among the type of contacts (sex partners and biological children younger than 15 years). The study assessed the 4 approaches: client referral (index cases refer the contacts for HIV testing), provider referral (health care providers refer the contacts), contract referral (index case-provider hybrid approach), and dual referral (both the index and their partner are tested simultaneously). METHODS Program data were collected at 4 facilities from October 2018 to March 2019 from index case files and HIV testing register. We compared uptake of the approaches, uptake of HIV testing, and HIV positivity percentages, stratified by contact type and gender. RESULTS There were 1089 sex partners and 469 children from 1089 newly diagnosed index cases. About 90% of children were contacted through client referral: 85.2% of those were tested and 1.4% was positive. Ninety percent of the children came from female index cases. The provider referral brought in 56.3% of sex partners, of whom 97.2% were HIV-tested. The client referral brought in 30% of sex partners, of whom only 81.5% were HIV-tested. The HIV positivity percentages were 75.5% and 72.7%, respectively, for the 2 approaches. Male index cases helped to reach twice as many HIV-positive sexual contacts outside the household (115) than female index cases (53). The contract and dual referrals were not preferred by index cases. CONCLUSIONS Provider referral is a successful and acceptable strategy for bringing in sex partners for testing. Client referral is preferred for children.
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Chamie G, Napierala S, Agot K, Thirumurthy H. HIV testing approaches to reach the first UNAIDS 95% target in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet HIV 2021; 8:e225-e236. [PMID: 33794183 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(21)00023-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
HIV testing is a crucial first step to accessing HIV prevention and treatment services and to achieving the UNAIDS target of 95% of people living with HIV being aware of their status by 2030. Combined implementation of facility-based and community-based approaches has helped to achieve high levels of HIV testing coverage in many countries including those in sub-Saharan Africa. Approaches such as index testing and self-testing help to reach individuals at higher risk of acquiring HIV, men, and those less likely to use health facilities or community-based services. However, as the proportion of people living with HIV who are aware of their HIV status has risen, the challenge of reaching those who remain undiagnosed or those who are at high risk of acquiring HIV has grown. Demand generation and novel testing approaches will be necessary to reach undiagnosed people living with HIV and to promote frequent retesting among key and priority populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Chamie
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases & Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Sue Napierala
- RTI International, Women's Global Health Imperative, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Perelman School of Medicine and Center for Health Incentives and Behavioral Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Mwango LK, Stafford KA, Blanco NC, Lavoie MC, Mujansi M, Nyirongo N, Tembo K, Sakala H, Chipukuma J, Phiri B, Nzangwa C, Mwandila S, Nkwemu KC, Saadani A, Mwila A, Herce ME, Claassen CW. Index and targeted community-based testing to optimize HIV case finding and ART linkage among men in Zambia. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 23 Suppl 2:e25520. [PMID: 32589360 PMCID: PMC7319128 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current healthcare systems fail to provide adequate HIV services to men. In Zambia, 25% of adult men living with HIV were unaware of their HIV status in 2018, and 12% of those who were unaware of their HIV statu were not receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) due to pervasive barriers to HIV testing services (HTS) and linkage to ART. To identify men and key and priority populations living with HIV in Zambia, and link them to care and treatment, we implemented the Community Impact to Reach Key and Underserved Individuals for Treatment and Support (CIRKUITS) project. We present HTS and ART linkage results from the first year of CIRKUITS. METHODS CIRKUITS aimed to reach beneficiaries by training, mentoring, and deploying community health workers to provide index testing services and targeted community HTS. Community leaders and workplace supervisors were engaged to enable workplace HTS for men. To evaluate the effects of these interventions, we collected age- and sex-disaggregated routinely collected programme data for the first 12 months of the project (October 2018 to September 2019) across 37 CIRKUITS-supported facilities in three provinces. We performed descriptive statistics and estimated index cascades for indicators of interest, and used Chi square tests to compare indicators by age, sex, and district strata. RESULTS Over 12 months, CIRKUITS tested 38,255 persons for HIV, identifying 10,974 (29%) new people living with HIV, of whom 10,239 (93%) were linked to ART. Among men, CIRKUITS tested 18,336 clients and identified 4458 (24%) as HIV positive, linked 4132 (93%) to ART. Men who tested HIV negative were referred to preventative services. Of the men found HIV positive, and 13.0% were aged 15 to 24 years, 60.3% were aged 25 to 39, 20.9% were aged 40 to 49 and 5.8% were ≥50 years old. Index testing services identified 2186 (49%) of HIV-positive men, with a positivity yield of 40% and linkage of 88%. Targeted community testing modalities accounted for 2272 (51%) of HIV-positive men identified, with positivity yield of 17% and linkage of 97%. CONCLUSIONS Index testing and targeted community-based HTS are effective strategies to identify men living with HIV in Zambia. Index testing results in higher yield, but lower linkage and fewer absolute men identified compared to targeted community-based HTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linah K Mwango
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kristen A Stafford
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Natalia C Blanco
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marie-Claude Lavoie
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Morley Mujansi
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nasho Nyirongo
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kalima Tembo
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Henry Sakala
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Beauty Phiri
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Carol Nzangwa
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Susan Mwandila
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Ahmed Saadani
- U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Annie Mwila
- U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michael E Herce
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Cassidy W Claassen
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Muchedzi A, Mpofu M, Mudzengerere FH, Bateganya M, Mavimba T, Satti H, Dhliwayo R, Zulu T, Tapera T, Samushonga T, Nyagura T, Ncube G, Tafuma TA. High HIV Positivity Rates Following Large-Scale HIV Self-Testing Implementation in Zimbabwe, 2018-2020. Front Public Health 2021; 9:606376. [PMID: 33834013 PMCID: PMC8021778 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.606376] [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: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: HIV self-testing (HIV-ST) is an innovative strategy to increase HIV case identification. This analysis shares the outcomes of HIV-ST implementation within the Zimbabwe HIV Care and Treatment (ZHCT) project for the period October 2018-March, 2020. Materials and Methods: We extracted HIV-ST data for the period October 2018 to March 2020 from the project database and assessed (1) the proportion of reactive HIV-ST results; (2) the concordance between reactive HIV-ST results against rapid confirmatory HIV tests using Determine™ and Chembio™ in parallel; and (3) the monthly contribution of HIV-ST to total HIV positive individuals identified within project. The Chi-square test was used to assess for statistical differences in HIV positivity between age groups, by sex and district; as well as the difference in HIV positivity between the HIV-ST and index and mobile testing strategies. Findings: Between October 2018 and March 2020, the ZHCT project distributed 11,983 HIV-ST kits; 11,924 (99.8%) were used and 2,616 (21.9%) were reactive. Of the reactive tests, 2,610 (99.8%) were confirmed HIV positive giving a final positivity rate of 21.9%, and a concordance rate of 99.8% between the HIV-ST results and the confirmatory tests. Proportion of reactive results differed by age-groups (p < 0.001); with the 35-49 years having the highest positivity rate of 25.5%. The contribution of HIV-ST to total new positives increased from 10% in October 2018 to 80% at the end of March 2020 (p < 0.001). Positivity rates from HIV-ST were significantly different by age-groups, sex and district (p = 0.04). Additionally, index and mobile testing had a higher positivity rate compared to HIV-ST (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The ZHCT project has successfully scaled up HIV self-testing which contributed significantly to HIV case finding. Countries should consider using the lessons to scale-up the intervention which will contribute in reaching under-served and undiagnosed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tendai Nyagura
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Harare, Zimbabwe
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Wirawan GBS, Januraga PP, Mahendra IGAA, Harjana NPA, Mahatmi T, Luhukay L, Rewari BB, Johnson C, Katz DA. Perspectives on voluntary assisted partner notification among providers, people with HIV and the general population in Indonesia: a formative qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:254. [PMID: 33516201 PMCID: PMC7847236 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10332-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Voluntary assisted partner notification (aPN) services are effective in increasing access to and uptake of HIV testing among partners of people with HIV. Following recommendations by the World Health Organization in 2016, Indonesia evaluated various approaches to aPN. We present the lessons learned from formative operational research undertaken to understand provider and patient perspectives on aPN from three demonstration sites in cities with a high HIV burden. METHODS We conducted a formative qualitative study in three cities: Jakarta, Semarang, and Denpasar between September and October 2019. We conducted six focus group discussions (FGDs) (n = 44 participants) among health-care providers, people living with HIV and the general population. We explored participant preferences and concerns about how aPN should be delivered, including the methods of and messaging for contacting partners. All FGDs were conducted in the Indonesian language. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS aPN was acceptable across different participant populations, although with caveats. Some differences were observed between the general population, providers and people living with HIV. People living with HIV were mainly concerned with confidentiality of the procedure and preferred the use of telecommunication and messages that avoid explicit mention of HIV exposure. Providers preferred similar approaches but for different reasons, being concerned mainly with self-efficacy and security. There was consensus regarding dual referral models. The use of phone calls and short messages were preferred as these are perceived to minimize negative reactions and stigma, protect client confidentiality and are suitable in the current legal situation. The general population was mainly concerned with effectiveness and prefer direct provider-led approaches, such as preferring in-person meeting with explicit notification of potential HIV exposure. CONCLUSIONS We found consensus among stakeholders on acceptance of aPN, especially dual referral methods. Development and implementation of aPN protocols should also consider clients' individual situations and concerns regarding safeguarding of confidentiality, and offer a range of options to accommodate all stakeholders involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gede Benny Setia Wirawan
- Center for Public Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Bali, Denpasar, Indonesia
| | - Pande Putu Januraga
- Center for Public Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Bali, Denpasar, Indonesia.
| | | | - Ngakan Putu Anom Harjana
- Center for Public Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Bali, Denpasar, Indonesia
| | - Tiara Mahatmi
- World Health Organization Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Cheryl Johnson
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David A Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Sharma M, Kariithi E, Kemunto E, Otieno G, Lagat H, Wamuti B, Obongo C, Macharia P, Masyuko S, Bosire R, Mugambi M, Weiner B, Farquhar C. High Acceptability of Assisted Partner Notification Services Among HIV-Positive Females in Kenya: Results From an Ongoing Implementation Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 86:56-61. [PMID: 33044322 PMCID: PMC8214933 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted partner services (aPS) involves notification and HIV testing for sexual partners of persons diagnosed HIV-positive (index clients). Because the impact of aPS is contingent on high acceptance, we assessed characteristics and reasons for nonenrollment among female index clients in an ongoing scale-up project. METHODS We analyzed data from HIV-positive females offered aPS in 31 facilities from May 2018 to August 2019. We compared sociodemographic characteristics by aPS enrollment (accepted, refused, and ineligible) and used multivariate binomial regression to assess associations between demographics and refusal. RESULTS Twenty-four thousand four hundred eighteen females received HIV testing and 1050 (4.3%) tested HIV-positive; 839 females enrolled in aPS (80%), 59 refused (6%), and 152 were ineligible (14%). APS uptake did not differ by age, testing history, or testing type (provider initiated vs. client initiated). Females refusing aPS were more likely to have completed secondary school [adjusted relative risk (aRR) 2.03, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13 to 2.82] and be divorced/separated (aRR: 3.09, 95% CI: 1.39 to 6.86) or single (aRR: 2.66, 95% CI: 1.31 to 5.42) compared with married/cohabitating. Reasons for refusing aPS included not feeling emotionally ready (31%) and reporting no sexual partners in past 3 years (22%). Reasons for ineligibility included fear or risk of intimate partner violence (9%), previous HIV diagnosis (9%), or insufficient time for aPS provision (3%). CONCLUSIONS APS has high acceptability among HIV-positive females regardless of age or testing history. More counseling may be needed to increase uptake among females with higher education and those who are separated/single. Follow-up for females not emotionally ready or who had insufficient time for aPS in their clinic visit can improve coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | - Paul Macharia
- Ministry of Health-National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Ministry of Health-National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rose Bosire
- Center for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Mugambi
- Ministry of Health-National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bryan Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle USA
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Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on HIV Testing and Assisted Partner Notification Services, Western Kenya. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:3010-3013. [PMID: 32488552 PMCID: PMC7265868 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02938-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Makurumidze R, Buyze J, Decroo T, Lynen L, de Rooij M, Mataranyika T, Sithole N, Takarinda KC, Apollo T, Hakim J, Van Damme W, Rusakaniko S. Patient-mix, programmatic characteristics, retention and predictors of attrition among patients starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) before and after the implementation of HIV "Treat All" in Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240865. [PMID: 33075094 PMCID: PMC7571688 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since the scale-up of the HIV “Treat All” recommendation, evidence on its real-world effect on predictors of attrition (either death or lost to follow-up) is lacking. We conducted a retrospective study using Zimbabwe ART program data to assess the association between “Treat All” and, patient-mix, programmatic characteristics, retention and predictors of attrition. Methods We used patient-level data from the electronic patient monitoring system (ePMS) from the nine districts, which piloted the “Treat All” recommendation. We compared patient-mix, programme characteristics, retention and predictors of attrition (lost to follow-up, death or stopping ART) in two cohorts; before (April/May 2016) and after (January/February 2017) “Treat All”. Retention was estimated using survival analysis. Predictors of attrition were determined using a multivariable Cox regression model. Interactions were used to assess the change in predictors of attrition before and after “Treat All”. Results We analysed 3787 patients, 1738 (45.9%) and 2049 (54.1%) started ART before and after “Treat All”, respectively. The proportion of men was higher after “Treat All” (39.4.% vs 36.2%, p = 0.044). Same-day ART initiation was more frequent after “Treat All” (43.2% vs 16.4%; p<0.001) than before. Retention on ART was higher before “Treat All” (p<0.001). Among non-pregnant women and men, the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of attrition after compared to before “Treat All” was 1.73 (95%CI: 1.30–2.31). The observed hazard of attrition for women being pregnant at ART initiation decreased by 17% (aHR: 1.73*0.48 = 0.83) after “Treat All”. Being male (vs female; aHR: 1.45; 95%CI: 1.12–1.87) and WHO Stage IV (vs WHO Stage I-III; aHR: 2.89; 95%CI: 1.16–7.11) predicted attrition both before and after “Treat All” implementation. Conclusion Attrition was higher after “Treat All”; being male, WHO Stage 4, and pregnancy predicted attrition in both before and after Treat All. However, pregnancy became a less strong risk factor for attrition after “Treat All” implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Makurumidze
- College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Tom Decroo
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Research Foundation of Flanders, Brussels, Belgiums
| | | | - Madelon de Rooij
- College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Ngwarai Sithole
- AIDS & TB Unit, Ministry of Health & Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Kudakwashe C. Takarinda
- AIDS & TB Unit, Ministry of Health & Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France
| | - Tsitsi Apollo
- AIDS & TB Unit, Ministry of Health & Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - James Hakim
- College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Wim Van Damme
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Makurumidze R, Decroo T, Lynen L, Chinwadzimba ZK, Van Damme W, Hakim J, Rusakaniko S. District-level strategies to control the HIV epidemic in Zimbabwe: a practical example of precision public health. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:393. [PMID: 32847619 PMCID: PMC7449062 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05234-8] [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: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study using survey and programme data to assess district-level performance along the HIV care cascade (HIV testing target achievement, linkage to ART and ART coverage) in order to formulate district-specific recommendations, taking into consideration prevalence and yield of testing. Results Data from 60 districts were analysed. Forty-eight districts (80.0%) surpassed 90% of their 2018 HIV testing targets. Linkage to ART was less than 90% in 40 districts (83.3%). Thirty districts (50.0%) had ART coverage above 90%. Of the 30 districts with suboptimal (< 90%) ART coverage, 18 districts had achieved high HIV testing target but with suboptimal linkage to ART, 6 had achieved high HIV testing targets and high linkage to ART, 4 had both suboptimal HIV testing target achievement and linkage to ART and 2 had suboptimal HIV testing target achievement and high linkage to ART. Priority should be given to districts with suboptimal ART coverage. Remediation strategies should be tailored to address the poorly performing stage of the cascade in each of the districts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Makurumidze
- College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe. .,Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium. .,Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Tom Decroo
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Research Foundation of Flanders, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Wim Van Damme
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - James Hakim
- College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Thior I, Rowley E, Mavhu W, Kruse-Levy N, Messner L, Falconer-Stout ZJ, Mugurungi O, Ncube G, Leclerc-Madlala S. Urban-rural disparity in sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviors of HIV-positive adolescent girls and young women and their perspectives on their male sexual partners: A cross-sectional study in Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230823. [PMID: 32324764 PMCID: PMC7179911 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We conducted a cross sectional survey in Zimbabwe to describe urban-rural disparity in socio-demographic characteristics and sexual behaviors of HIV-positive adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and their male sexual partners. Between September and November 2016, we interviewed 360 sexually active HIV positive AGYW, aged 15––24 years attending ART and PMTCT clinics in urban and rural health facilities in Harare and Mazowe district respectively. HIV positive AGYW in rural areas as compared to those in urban areas were older, less educated, more frequently married or cohabiting, had lower number of male sexual partners in their lifetime and in the last 12 months preceding the survey. They were mostly heterosexually infected, more likely to disclose their status to a family member and to be more adherent to ART (OR = 2.5–95% CI = 1.1–5.5). Most recent male sexual partners of HIV positive AGYW in urban areas as compared to those from rural areas were mainly current or former boyfriends, single, more educated, less likely to have a child with them and to engage in couple voluntary counseling and testing (CVCT). They were more likely to patronize dancing and drinking venues and involved in transactional sex (OR = 2.2–95% CI: 1.2–4). They were also more likely to be circumcised (OR = 2.3–95% CI: 1.3–4.1) and to use condom more consistently in the last 12 months preceding the survey. Our study findings called for the strengthening of HIV prevention interventions in urban areas among HIV positive AGYW who had more than one partner in their lifetime or are patronizing dancing and drinking venues. In Zimbabwe, promotion of CVCT, index testing, male circumcision and condom use should be sustained to engage male sexual partners of both urban and rural HIV positive AGYW in HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibou Thior
- PATH, Washington, D.C, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Webster Mavhu
- Centre for Sexual Health & HIV/AIDS Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Lyn Messner
- EnCompass LLC, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Owen Mugurungi
- AIDS and TB, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Getrude Ncube
- AIDS and TB, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Katz DA, Wong VJ, Medley AM, Johnson CC, Cherutich PK, Green KE, Huong P, Baggaley RC. The power of partners: positively engaging networks of people with HIV in testing, treatment and prevention. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 3:e25314. [PMID: 31321909 PMCID: PMC6639670 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David A Katz
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Vincent J Wong
- Global Health BureauOffice of HIV/AIDSUnited States Agency for International Development (USAID)WashingtonDCUSA
| | - Amy M Medley
- Division of Global HIV and TBCenter for Global HealthU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)AtlantaGAUSA
| | | | - Peter K Cherutich
- National AIDS/Sexually Transmitted Diseases Control ProgrammeMinistry of HealthNairobiKenya
| | | | - Phan Huong
- Vietnam Authority of HIV/AIDS Control, Ministry of HealthHanoiVietnam
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