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Dunn Navarra AM, Gormley M, Liang E, Loughran C, Vorderstrasse A, Garcia DR, Rosenberg MG, Fletcher J, Goldsamt LA. Developing and testing a web-based platform for antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence support among adolescents and young adults (AYA) living with HIV. PEC INNOVATION 2024; 4:100263. [PMID: 38463238 PMCID: PMC10920727 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2024.100263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Objective Describe the development and testing of a web-based platform for antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence support among HIV+ adolescents and young adults (AYA) in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Methods A seven-member multi-disciplinary team operationalized the flat, password protected, web-based platform. Manualized protocols guided the objectives and content for each of the eight web-based sessions. Team members evaluated usability and content validity. Client satisfaction and perceived ease of use was evaluated with the first ten HIV+ AYA participants. Results The web-based platform was developed, evaluated, refined, implemented and pilot tested between September 2020 to April 2022. Usability was rated as high; the evaluation of content validity showed an excellent fit between session content and objectives. HIV+ AYA participants (mean age = 24.2 years) were satisfied with the quality, type, and amount of support/education received, and found the platform easy to use, operate, and navigate. Average time spent per session was 6.5 min. Conclusion Findings support the usability, validity, acceptability, and feasibility of this web-based platform for ART adherence support among HIV+ AYA. Innovation Our research and findings are responsive to research gaps and the need for transparency in the methodological development and testing of web-based control arms for ART adherence support among HIV+ AYA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Margaret Dunn Navarra
- StonyBrook University, School of Nursing, 101 Nicolls Road, Health Sciences Center, Level 2, StonyBrook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Maurade Gormley
- University of Connecticut, School of Nursing, 231 Glenbrook Road, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Eva Liang
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 380 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Claire Loughran
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 380 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Allison Vorderstrasse
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Elaine Marieb College of Nursing, 651 N Pleasant St., Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - David R. Garcia
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Michael G. Rosenberg
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Jason Fletcher
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Lloyd A. Goldsamt
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
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Bielick C, Canan C, Ingersoll K, Waldman AL, Schwendinger J, Dillingham R. Three-Year Follow-up of PositiveLinks: Higher Use of mHealth Platform Associated with Sustained HIV Suppression. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04405-z. [PMID: 38869759 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04405-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
PositiveLinks (PL) is a mHealth platform to support care engagement by people with HIV (PWH). Daily reminders prompt the user to report medication adherence, mood, and daily stress. Higher response rate to PL check-ins has been associated with better suppression of viral load over 6-18 months. We conducted a retrospective chart review for a three-year period collecting demographic information, average mood and stress scores, and all viral loads obtained in usual patient care. We performed multivariable logistic regression modeling to identify factors associated with loss of viral load suppression and a time-to-event survival analysis until first unsuppressed viral load stratified by PL usage. Of the 513 PWH included, 103 had at least one episode of viral non-suppression. Low users of PL were more likely to have an unsuppressed viral load with an adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) of 5.8 (95% CI 3.0-11.5, p < 0.001). Protective factors included older age (aOR 0.96; 95% CI 0.93-0.98, p = 0.003) and income above the federal poverty level (FPL) (aOR 0.996; 95% CI 0.995-0.998, p < 0.001). High PL use was also associated with better viral load suppression (VLS) over time (p < 0.0001 ((aHR) of 0.437 (95% CI 0.290-0.658, p < 0.001)) after adjusting for age and FPL. High stress scores were related to subsequent loss of viral suppression in an exploratory analysis. High check-in response rate on the PL app, older age, and higher income are associated with sustained VLS over time. Conversely, lack of response to check-ins or increased reported stress may signal a need for additional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Bielick
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| | - Chelsea Canan
- Division of Disease Prevention, Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Karen Ingersoll
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ava Lena Waldman
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jason Schwendinger
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Rebecca Dillingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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Li DH, Macapagal K, Mongrella M, Saber R, Mustanski B. "Your Package Could Not Be Delivered": The State of Digital HIV Intervention Implementation in the US. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024; 21:152-167. [PMID: 38502421 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00693-1] [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: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Despite continuous innovations and federal investment to create digital interventions addressing the HIV prevention and care continua, these interventions have not reached people in the U.S. at scale. This article reviews what is known about U.S. implementation of digital HIV interventions and presents a strategy to cross the research-to-practice chasm for these types of interventions. RECENT FINDINGS We conducted a narrative review of U.S.-based original research on implementation of digital HIV interventions and identified few studies reporting on implementation determinants, strategies, processes, or outcomes, particularly outside the context of effectiveness trials. To supplement the literature, in 2023, we surveyed 47 investigators representing 64 unique interventions about their experiences with implementation after their research trials. Respondents placed high importance on intervention implementation, but major barriers included lack of funding and clear implementation models, technology costs, and difficulty identifying partners equipped to deliver digital interventions. They felt that responsibility for implementation should be shared between intervention developers, deliverers (e.g., clinics), and a government entity. If an implementation center were to exist, most respondents wanted to be available for guidance or technical assistance but largely wanted less involvement. Numerous evidence-based, effective digital interventions exist to address HIV prevention and care. However, they remain "on the shelf" absent a concrete and sustainable model for real-world dissemination and implementation. Based on our findings, we call for the creation of national implementation centers, analogous to those in other health systems, to facilitate digital HIV intervention delivery and accelerate progress toward ending the U.S. epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis H Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kathryn Macapagal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Melissa Mongrella
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rana Saber
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Lavoie MCC, Okui L, Blanco N, Stoebenau K, Magidson JF, Gokatweng G, Ikgopoleng K, Charurat ME, Ndwapi N. Feasibility and acceptability of peer-delivered interventions using mHealth for PrEP services among adolescent girls and young women in DREAMS program in Botswana. Glob Health Action 2023; 16:2231256. [PMID: 37462118 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2023.2231256] [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: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent girls and young women accounted for 25% of all new HIV infections despite representing only 10% of the population in Sub Saharan Africa. PEPFAR has launched the Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe (DREAMS) initiative, a comprehensive HIV prevention program including PrEP services. Among adolescent girls and young women, PrEP adherence is currently sub-optimal. Tailored strategies for adolescent girls and young women to improve access and use of PrEP delivery are urgently needed to maximise its potential. Recommended interventions include peer-delivered interventions using mobile technology. However, data on the feasibility and acceptability of this approach is limited for SSA. OBJECTIVES We assessed the feasibility and perceived acceptability of providing mHealth peer-delivered interventions to support PrEP services among adolescent girls and young women in Botswana. METHODS This cross-sectional study included HIV-negative women aged 18-24 years old seeking health services at DREAMS-supported facilities. Participants completed a survey assessing the feasibility and perceived acceptability of the mHealth peer-delivered interventions, which included the Acceptability of Intervention Measure (AIM). Descriptive analyses were performed. RESULTS A total of 131 participated in the study. Overall, 89% owned a mobile phone (feasibility). There was no difference in cell phone ownership between participants from rural and urban settings. Among participants, 85% reported interest in participating in a mHealth peer-delivered intervention if it was available to them. Regarding perceived acceptability for mHealthpeer support groups for PrEP, the average score on the AIM was 3.8 out of 5 (SD = 0.8). CONCLUSION mHealthpeer-delivered interventions appear to be feasible and perceived acceptable among adolescent girls and young women in Botswana. This modality should be incorporated into PEPFAR's programmatic toolkit of implementation strategies to improve PrEP services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claude C Lavoie
- Division of Global Health Sciences, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for International Health Education and Biosecurity (Ciheb), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lillian Okui
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (Ciheb), Maryland Global Initiative Corporation, University of Maryland Baltimore, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Natalia Blanco
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for International Health Education and Biosecurity (Ciheb), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kirsten Stoebenau
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA
| | | | - Gadzikanani Gokatweng
- Botswana-University of Maryland School of Medicine Health Initiative (Bummhi), Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Kaizer Ikgopoleng
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (Ciheb), Maryland Global Initiative Corporation, University of Maryland Baltimore, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Manhattan E Charurat
- Division of Global Health Sciences, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for International Health Education and Biosecurity (Ciheb), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ndwapi Ndwapi
- Botswana-University of Maryland School of Medicine Health Initiative (Bummhi), Gaborone, Botswana
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Zhang L, Ni Z, Liu Y, Chen H. The effectiveness of e-health on reducing stigma, improving social support and quality of life among people living with HIV: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Int J Nurs Stud 2023; 148:104606. [PMID: 37801937 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2023.104606] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many people living with HIV reported poor quality of life, which was primarily due to HIV-related stigma and the lack of social support. Compared with face-to-face interventions, e-health interventions are reported to have potential to help people living with HIV improve their adherence to antiretroviral therapy, promote their management of HIV and depressive symptoms. However, in the literature, the effectiveness of e-health interventions in helping people living with HIV reduce stigma, improve social support and quality of life is unclear. OBJECTIVE To examine the effectiveness of e-health interventions in reducing stigma and improving social support and quality of life among people living with HIV. DESIGN This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials following the Cochrane Handbook guidelines and PRISMA2020. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted from inception to 1st December 2022 in six databases: PubMed, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, PsycINFO (Ovid), Embase, Web of Science, and CENTRAL (Ovid), and an updated search took place on 11st June 2023. Two authors independently screened the studies and extracted the data. Cochrane's bias risk tool for randomized controlled trials was used to examine the methodological quality of the included studies. The intervention effect was estimated by calculating the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) using Review Manager 5.3. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to test the rigor of the pooled results using one-study-out method. The certainty of evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. RESULTS Nine studies met eligibility criteria and were included in this review. The results of the meta-analysis showed that e-health interventions could statistically significantly reduce stigma (SMD: -0.29, 95 % CI: [-0.48, -0.10], p = 0.002) and improve quality of life (SMD = 0.49, 95 % CI: [0.30, 0.68], P < 0.001), but had no significant effects on social support (SMD = -0.01, 95 % CI: [-0.48, 0.46] P = 0.96). CONCLUSIONS E-health interventions could reduce stigma and improve quality of life among people living with HIV. More studies are needed to further explore if e-health interventions can improve the social support for people living with HIV and investigate how to integrate e-health interventions into the existing health models to help people living with HIV treat and manage HIV/AIDS. REGISTRATION The protocol of this study has been registered in the database PROSPERO (registration ID: CRD42022373299).
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Affiliation(s)
- Liao Zhang
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, PR China
| | - Zhao Ni
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS (CIRA), Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, PR China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, PR China.
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Mahmoud Z, Sanusi M, Nartey C, Adedinsewo D. Using Technology to Deliver Cardiovascular Care in African Countries. Curr Cardiol Rep 2023; 25:1823-1830. [PMID: 37966691 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-023-01988-2] [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] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to explore the applications of digital technology in cardiovascular care across African countries. It highlights the opportunities and challenges associated with leveraging technology to enhance patient self-monitoring, remote patient-clinician interactions, telemedicine, clinician and patient education, and research facilitation. The purpose is to highlight how technology can transform cardiovascular care in Africa. RECENT FINDINGS Recent findings indicate that the increasing penetration of mobile phones and internet connectivity in Africa offers a unique opportunity to improve cardiovascular care. Smartphone-based applications and text messaging services have been employed to promote self-monitoring and lifestyle management, although challenges related to smartphone ownership and digital literacy persist. Remote monitoring of patients by clinicians using home-based devices and wearables shows promise but requires greater accessibility and validation studies in African populations. Telemedicine diagnosis and management of cardiovascular conditions demonstrates significant potential but faces adoption challenges. Investing in targeted clinician and patient education on novel digital technology and devices as well as promoting technology-assisted research for participant recruitment and data collection can facilitate cardiovascular care advancements in Africa. Technology has the potential to revolutionize cardiovascular care in Africa by improving access, efficiency, and patient outcomes. However, barriers related to limited resources, supportive infrastructure, digital literacy, and access to devices must be addressed. Strategic actions, including investment in digital infrastructure, training programs, community collaboration, and policy advocacy, are crucial to ensuring equitable integration of digital health solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Mahmoud
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Avenue, Campus Box 8086, St. Louis, MO, 63110-1093, USA.
| | | | - Cecilia Nartey
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, 660 South Euclid Avenue, Campus Box 8086, St. Louis, MO, 63110-1093, USA
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Chibi M, Wasswa W, Ngongoni CN, Lule F. Scaling up delivery of HIV services in Africa through harnessing trends across global emerging innovations. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 3:1198008. [PMID: 38028944 PMCID: PMC10644308 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1198008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Globally, innovations for HIV response present exciting opportunities to enhance the impact and cost-effectiveness of any HIV program. However, countries especially in the African region are not on equal footing to effectively harness some of the existing innovations to accelerate impact on HIV services delivery. This paper aims to add to the discourse on innovative solutions to support countries to make informed decisions related to technologies that can be adapted in different contexts to strengthen HIV programs. A scoping review which involved a search of innovations that can be used in response to the HIV epidemic was carried out between June 2021 and December 2022. The results showed that a high level of technological advancement occurred in the area of digital technologies and devices. Out of the 202 innovations, 90% were digital technologies, of which 34% were data collection and analytics, 45% were mobile based applications, and 12% were social media interventions. Only 10% fell into the category of devices, of which 67% were rapid diagnostic tools (RDTs) and 19% were drone-based technologies among other innovative tools. The study noted that most of the innovations that scaled relied on a strong ICT infrastructure backbone. The scoping review presents an opportunity to assess trends, offer evidence, and outline gaps to drive the adoption and adaptation of such technologies in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moredreck Chibi
- Science and Innovation, Assistant Regional Director, World Health Organization Africa Region, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - William Wasswa
- HIV, Tuberculosis and Hepatitis, Universal Health Coverage/Communicable and Non Communicable Disease Cluster, World Health Organization Africa Region, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Chipo Nancy Ngongoni
- Science and Innovation, Assistant Regional Director, World Health Organization Africa Region, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Frank Lule
- HIV, Tuberculosis and Hepatitis, Universal Health Coverage/Communicable and Non Communicable Disease Cluster, World Health Organization Africa Region, Brazzaville, Congo
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Improving Outcomes for Adolescents and Young Adults Living With HIV. J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:605-609. [PMID: 37422741 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV), ages 10-24, experience inferior outcomes across the HIV care continuum compared to adults. Inferior outcomes are caused by clinical systems that are not tailored to AYLHIV, structural barriers that prevent equitable care, and lack of engagement of AYLHIV by care teams. This position paper outlines three recommendations to bridge these gaps in care outcomes. The first advocates for offering differentiated and integrated health services. The second addresses structural changes that can improve outcomes for AYLHIV. The third calls for actively including input from AYLHIV about the care designed for them.
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Bose DL, Hundal A, Singh S, Singh S, Seth K, Hadi SU, Saran A, Joseph J, Goyal K, Salve S. Evidence and gap map report: Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) interventions for strengthening HIV prevention and research among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2023; 19:e1297. [PMID: 36911864 PMCID: PMC9831290 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), aged 15-24 years, are disproportionately affected by HIV and other sexual and reproductive health (SRH) risks due to varying social, cultural, and economic factors that affect their choices and shape their knowledge, understanding, and practices with regard to their health. Socio-Behavioral Change Communication (SBCC) interventions targeted at strengthening the capabilities of individuals and their networks have supported the demand and uptake of prevention services and participation in biomedical research. However, despite growing global recognition of the domain, high-quality evidence on the effectiveness of SBCC remains scattered. This evidence and gap map (EGM) report characterizes the evidence base on SBCC interventions for strengthening HIV Prevention and Research among AGYW in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), identifying evidence gaps and outlining the scope of future research and program design. OBJECTIVES The objectives of the proposed EGM are to: (a) identify and map existing EGMs in the use of diverse SBCC strategies to strengthen the adoption of HIV prevention measures and participation in research among AGYW in LMICs and (b) identify areas where more interventions and evidence are needed to inform the design of future SBCC strategies and programs for AGYW engagement in HIV prevention and research. METHODS This EGM is based on a comprehensive search of systematic reviews and impact evaluations corresponding to a range of interventions and outcomes-aimed at engaging AGYW in HIV prevention and research - that were published in LMICs from January 2000 to April 2021. Based on guidance for producing a Campbell Collaboration EGM, the intervention and outcome framework was designed in consultation with a group of experts. These interventions were categorized across four broad intervention themes: mass-media, community-based, interpersonal, and Information Communication and Technology (ICT)/Digital Media-based interventions. They were further sub-categorized into 15 intervention categories. Included studies looked at 23 unique behavioral and health outcomes such as knowledge attitude and skills, relationship dynamics, household dynamics, health care services, and health outcomes and research engagement. The EGM is presented as a matrix in which the rows are intervention categories/sub-categories, and the columns are outcome domains/subdomains. Each cell is mapped to an intervention targeted at outcomes. Additional filters like region, country, study design, age group, funding agency, influencers, population group, publication status, study confidence, setting, and year of publication have been added. SELECTION CRITERIA To be eligible, studies must have tested the effectiveness of SBCC interventions at engaging AGYW in LMICs in HIV prevention and research. The study sample must have consisted of AGYW between the ages of 15-24, as defined by UNAIDS. Both experimental (random assignment) and quasi-experimental studies that included a comparison group were eligible. Relevant outcomes included those at the individual, influencer, and institutional levels, along with those targeting research engagement and prevention-related outcomes. RESULTS This EGM comprises 415 impact evaluations and 43 systematic reviews. Interventions like peer-led interactions, counseling, and community dialogues were the most dominant intervention sub-types. Despite increased digital penetration use of media and technology-driven interventions are relatively less studied. Most of the interventions were delivered by peers, health care providers, and educators, largely in school-based settings, and in many cases are part of sex-education curricula. Evidence across geographies was mostly concentrated in Sub-Saharan Africa (70%). Most measured outcomes focused on disease-related knowledge dissemination and enhancing awareness of available prevention options/strategies. These included messaging around consistent condom use, limiting sexual partners, routine testing, and awareness. Very few studies were able to include psychographic, social, and contextual factors influencing AGYW health behaviors and decisions, especially those measuring the impact of social and gender norms, relationship dynamics, and household dynamics-related outcomes. Outcomes related to engagement in the research were least studied. CONCLUSION This EGM highlights that evidence is heavily concentrated within the awareness-intent spectrum of behavior change and gets lean for outcomes situated within the intent-action and the action-habit formation spectrum of the behavior change continuum. Most of the evidence was concentrated on increasing awareness, knowledge, and building risk perception around SRH domains, however, fewer studies focused on strengthening the agency and self-efficacy of individuals. Similarly, evidence on extrinsic factors-such as strengthening social and community norms, relationships, and household dynamics-that determine individual thought and action such as negotiation and life skills were also found to be less populated. Few studies explore the effectiveness of these interventions across diverse AGYW identities, like pregnant women and new mothers, sex workers, and people living with HIV, leading to limited understanding of the use of these interventions across multiple user segments including key influencers such as young men, partners, families, religious leaders, and community elders was relatively low. There is a need for better quality evidence that accounts for the diversity of experiences within these populations to understand what interventions work, for whom, and toward what outcome. Further, the evidence for use of digital and mass-media tools remains poorly populated. Given the increasing penetration of these tools and growing media literacy on one end, with widening gender-based gaps on the other, it is imperative to gather more high-quality evidence on their effectiveness. Timely evidence generation can help leverage these platforms appropriately and enable intervention designs that are responsive to changing communication ecologies of AGYW. SBCC can play a critical role in helping researchers meaningfully engage and collaborate with communities as equal stakeholders, however, this remains poorly evidenced and calls for investigation and investment. A full list of abbreviations and acronyms are available in Supporting Information: Appendix F.
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Pre-exposure prophylaxis in the era of emerging methods for men who have sex with men in the USA: the HIV Prevention Cycle of Care model. Lancet HIV 2023; 10:e134-e142. [PMID: 36525980 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00309-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Expanding on previous work, we present an HIV Prevention Cycle of Care model to facilitate understanding of the complexity of issues involved in pre-exposure prophylaxis implementation for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in the USA, including individual, client-provider, and overarching issues such as health equity, stigma, and prevention nomenclature. The HIV prevention cycle of care applies to MSM who test negative for HIV. The Prevention Cycle of Care model includes seven steps: prevention knowledge, prevention self-awareness and preferences, prevention motivation, health-care access and cost, provider issues, adherence and persistence, and periodic reassessment and adjustment. HIV prevention is complex in an era of emerging multiple modalities, and more research is needed to successfully implement pre-exposure prophylaxis options over time and across diverse communities of MSM who are sexually active.
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Houang ST, Kafka JM, Choi SK, Meanley SP, Muessig KE, Bauermeister JA, Hightow-Weidman LB. Co-occurring Epidemic Conditions Among Southern U.S. Black Men Who Have Sex with Men in an Online eHealth Intervention. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:641-650. [PMID: 35986818 PMCID: PMC9391640 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03799-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) face disproportionately higher risks for adverse sexual health outcomes compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts. This disparity can be attributable to overlapping and intersecting risk factors at the individual and structural levels and can be understood through syndemic theory. Using longitudinal data from the HealthMPowerment trial (n = 363), six conditions related to stigma syndemics were indexed as a cumulative risk score: high alcohol use, polydrug use, depression and anxiety symptomology, and experiences of racism and sexual minority stigma. Using Poisson regression, we found a positive association between baseline risk scores and sexual risk behavior (b: 0.32, SE: 0.03, p < 0.001). Using a Generalized Estimating Equation, we also found a 0.23 decrease in the within-participant risk scores at 3-month follow-up (SE: 0.10, p < 0.020). Future work examining how care and prevention trials improve health outcomes in this population is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven T Houang
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 170 Rosenau Hall, CB #7400, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Julie M Kafka
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 170 Rosenau Hall, CB #7400, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Seul Ki Choi
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Steven P Meanley
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 170 Rosenau Hall, CB #7400, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Jose A Bauermeister
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Lisa B Hightow-Weidman
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 170 Rosenau Hall, CB #7400, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
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12
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Magno L, Soares F, Zucchi EM, Eustórgio M, Grangeiro A, Ferraz D, Greco D, Escuder MM, Dourado I. Reaching Out to Adolescents at High Risk of HIV Infection in Brazil: Demand Creation Strategies for PrEP and Other HIV Combination Prevention Methods. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:703-719. [PMID: 35876978 PMCID: PMC9310684 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02371-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Using baseline data from the PrEP1519 cohort, in this article we aimed to analyze: (i) the effectiveness of demand creation strategies (DCS) to enroll adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM) and adolescent transgender women (ATGW) into an HIV combination prevention study in Brazil; (ii) the predictors of DCS for adolescents' enrollment; and (iii) the factors associated with DCS by comparing online and face-to-face strategies for enrollment. The DCS included peer recruitment (i.e., online and face-to-face) and referrals from health services and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). AMSM and ATGW who agreed to participate in the study could opt to enroll in either PrEP (PrEP arm) or to use other prevention methods (non-PrEP arm). Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted and logistic regression odds ratios were estimated. The DCS reached 4529 AMSM and ATGW, the majority of which were derived online (73.8%). Of this total, 935 (20.6%) enrolled to participate (76.6% in PrEP arm and 23.4% in non-PrEP arm). The effectiveness of enrolling adolescents into both arms was greater via direct referrals (235/382 and 84/382, respectively) and face-to-face peer recruitment (139/670 and 35/670, respectively) than online (328/3342). We found that a combination under DCS was required for successful enrollment in PrEP, with online strategies majorly tending to enroll adolescents of a higher socioeconomic status. Our findings reinforce the need for DCS that actively reaches out to all adolescents at the greatest risk for HIV infection, irrespective of their socioeconomic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laio Magno
- Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Rua Silveira Martins, 2555, Cabula41.150-000, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Fabiane Soares
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Eliana Miura Zucchi
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Mestrado Profissional em Psicologia e Políticas Públicas, Universidade Católica de Santos, São Paulo, Santos, Brazil
| | - Marcos Eustórgio
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Grangeiro
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dulce Ferraz
- Escola FIOCRUZ de Governo, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Dirceu Greco
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Ines Dourado
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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Downing MJ, Wiatrek SE, Zahn RJ, Mansergh G, Olansky E, Gelaude D, Sullivan PS, Stephenson R, Siegler AJ, Bauermeister J, Horvath KJ, Chiasson MA, Yoon IS, Houang ST, Hernandez AJ, Hirshfield S. Video selection and assessment for an app-based HIV prevention messaging intervention: formative research. Mhealth 2023; 9:2. [PMID: 36760783 PMCID: PMC9902231 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-21-53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) continue to be overrepresented in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in the United States. HIV prevention and care interventions that are tailored to an individual's serostatus have the potential to lower the rate of new infections among GBMSM. Mobile technology is a critical tool for disseminating targeted messaging and increasing uptake of basic prevention services including HIV testing, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Mobile Messaging for Men (M-Cubed) is a mobile health HIV prevention intervention designed to deliver video- and text-based prevention messages, provide STI and HIV information, and link GBMSM to prevention and healthcare resources. The current report describes an iterative process of identifying and selecting publicly available videos to be used as part of the M-Cubed intervention. We also conducted interviews with GBMSM to assess the acceptability, comprehension, and potential audience reach of the selected video messages. METHODS The selection of videos included balancing of specific criteria [e.g., accuracy of scientific information, video length, prevention domains: HIV/STI testing, antiretroviral therapy (ART), PrEP, engagement in care, and condom use] to ensure that they were intended for our GBMSM audiences: HIV-negative men who engage in condomless anal sex, HIV-negative men who do not engage in condomless anal sex, and men living with HIV. This formative study included in-person interviews with 26 GBMSM from three U.S. cities heavily impacted by the HIV epidemic-New York City, Detroit, and Atlanta. RESULTS Following a qualitative content analysis, the study team identified five themes across the interviews: participant reactions to the video messages, message comprehension, PrEP concerns, targeting of video messaging, and prompted action. CONCLUSIONS Study results informed a final selection of 12 video messages for inclusion in a randomized controlled trial of M-Cubed. Findings may serve as a guide for researchers who plan to develop HIV prevention interventions that utilize publicly available videos to promote behavioral change. Further, the findings presented here suggest the importance of developing videos with broad age and gender diversity for use in interventions such as M-Cubed, and in other health promotion settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah E. Wiatrek
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ryan J. Zahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gordon Mansergh
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Deborah Gelaude
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, School of Nursing & The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Aaron J. Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - José Bauermeister
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Keith J. Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mary Ann Chiasson
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Steven T. Houang
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Anthony Jimenez Hernandez
- Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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14
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Galindo CA, Freeman A, Abdallah I, Courtenay-Quirk C. Positive Health Check intervention tool usage during a feasibility pilot in HIV primary care clinics. AIDS Care 2023; 35:35-40. [PMID: 35765161 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2094311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Positive Health Check (PHC), an interactive, web-based intervention, provides tailored behavioral health messages to support people with HIV in their HIV care. Users interact with a virtual doctor and based on responses to tailoring questions, PHC delivers relevant content modules addressing treatment initiation, medication adherence, retention in care, sexual risk reduction, mother-to-child transmission, and injection drug use. During a one-month feasibility pilot of PHC, patients in four HIV primary care clinics were invited to use PHC and tool usage metrics were collected and assessed. Descriptive analyses were conducted to characterize how the tool was used based on behavioral risk scenarios presented.Ninety-seven patients accessed PHC as part of the pilot, with 68 (70.1%) completing the intervention on average in 15 min. Out of 85 patients who viewed behavioral tips and commitments, 66 (77.7%) selected at least one tip to practice and 41 (48.2%) made at least one commitment to ask their provider a question. Patients spent the most time with adherence and sexual risk reduction content. The high level of tool engagement suggests that PHC was acceptable to patients regardless of length of time since diagnosis. PHC can be completed within a single visit and is a promising tool for PWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla A Galindo
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Arin Freeman
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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15
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Majam M, Segal B, Fieggen J, Smith E, Hermans L, Singh L, Phatsoane M, Arora L, Lalla-Edward S. Utility of a machine-guided tool for assessing risk behaviour associated with contracting HIV in three sites in South Africa. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2023; 37:101192. [PMID: 36911795 PMCID: PMC9993399 DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2023.101192] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Digital data collection and the associated mobile health technologies have allowed for the recent exploration of artificial intelligence as a tool for combatting the HIV epidemic. Machine learning has been found to be useful both in HIV risk prediction and as a decision support tool for guiding pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) treatment. This paper reports data from two sequential studies evaluating the viability of using machine learning to predict the susceptibility of adults to HIV infection using responses from a digital survey deployed in a high burden, low-resource setting. Methods 1036 and 593 participants were recruited across two trials. The first trial was a cross-sectional study in one location and the second trial was a cohort study across three trial sites. The data from the studies were merged, partitioned using standard techniques, and then used to train and evaluate multiple different machine learning models and select and evaluate a final model. Variable importance estimates were calculated using the PIMP and SHAP methodologies. Results Characteristics associated with HIV were consistent across both studies. Overall, HIV positive patients had a higher median age (34 [IQR: 29-39] vs 26 [IQR 22-33], p < 0.001), and were more likely to be female (155/703 [22%] vs 107/927 [12%], p < 0.001). HIV positive participants also had more commonly gone a year or more since their last HIV test (183/262 [70%] vs 540/1368 [39%], p < 0.001) and were less likely to report consistent condom usage (113/262 [43%] vs 758/1368 [55%], p < 0.001). Patients who reported TB symptoms were more likely to be HIV positive. The trained models had accuracy values (AUROCs) ranging from 78.5% to 82.8%. A boosted tree model performed best with a sensitivity of 84% (95% CI 72-92), specificity of 71% (95% CI 67-76), and a negative predictive value of 95% (95% CI 93-96) in a hold-out dataset. Age, duration since last HIV test, and number of male sexual partners were consistently three of the four most important variables across both variable importance estimates. Conclusions This study has highlighted the synergies present between mobile health and machine learning in HIV. It has been demonstrated that a viable ML model can be built using digital survey data from an low-middle income setting with potential utility in directing health resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Majam
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - B. Segal
- Phithos Technologies, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - J. Fieggen
- Phithos Technologies, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Eli Smith
- Phithos Technologies, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - L. Hermans
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - L. Singh
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - M. Phatsoane
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - L. Arora
- Phithos Technologies, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - S.T. Lalla-Edward
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Corresponding author. Ezintsha, Building C, Sunnyside Office Park, 32 Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Gauteng, 2000, South Africa.
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Wirtz AL, Logie CH, Mbuagbaw L. Addressing Health Inequities in Digital Clinical Trials: A Review of Challenges and Solutions From the Field of HIV Research. Epidemiol Rev 2022; 44:87-109. [PMID: 36124659 PMCID: PMC10362940 DOI: 10.1093/epirev/mxac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials are considered the gold standard for establishing efficacy of health interventions, thus determining which interventions are brought to scale in health care and public health programs. Digital clinical trials, broadly defined as trials that have partial to full integration of technology across implementation, interventions, and/or data collection, are valued for increased efficiencies as well as testing of digitally delivered interventions. Although recent reviews have described the advantages and disadvantages of and provided recommendations for improving scientific rigor in the conduct of digital clinical trials, few to none have investigated how digital clinical trials address the digital divide, whether they are equitably accessible, and if trial outcomes are potentially beneficial only to those with optimal and consistent access to technology. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), among other health conditions, disproportionately affects socially and economically marginalized populations, raising questions of whether interventions found to be efficacious in digital clinical trials and subsequently brought to scale will sufficiently and consistently reach and provide benefit to these populations. We reviewed examples from HIV research from across geographic settings to describe how digital clinical trials can either reproduce or mitigate health inequities via the design and implementation of the digital clinical trials and, ultimately, the programs that result. We discuss how digital clinical trials can be intentionally designed to prevent inequities, monitor ongoing access and utilization, and assess for differential impacts among subgroups with diverse technology access and use. These findings can be generalized to many other health fields and are practical considerations for donors, investigators, reviewers, and ethics committees engaged in digital clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Wirtz
- Correspondence to Dr. Andrea L. Wirtz, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 (e-mail: )
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Brasileiro J, Widman L, Norwalk K, McCrimmon J, Mullins L. National trends and disparate access to formal and informal sex education among youth involved with the child welfare system in the USA. SEX EDUCATION 2022; 23:723-739. [PMID: 37849527 PMCID: PMC10578646 DOI: 10.1080/14681811.2022.2134102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to understand whether youth involved with the child welfare system in the USA are receiving formal and informal sex education. Data come from the Second National Survey of Child and Adolescent Wellbeing, a nationally representative sample of children and adolescents in contact with child protective services. Participants included young people (n=1093, aged 11-21) involved with the child welfare system. Participants reported whether they had received formal sex education about a) abstinence only; b) contraceptives/condoms only; c) abstinence and contraceptives/condoms; or d) none. They also reported whether they knew where to access family planning services. We examined the prevalence of sex education experiences and differences in sex education access and knowledge based on participants' pregnancy history and sociodemographic characteristics. Only half (49%) of participants had received any form of formal sex education. Pregnant youth were less likely to have received any sex education compared to non-pregnant youth (p=.045). 72% of adolescents who had received sex education about contraceptives/condoms reported knowing where to access family planning services compared to only 46% of adolescents who had not received sex education about contraceptives/condoms (p=.014). There is a pressing need for comprehensive sex education among young people involved with the child welfare system in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Widman
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, USA
| | - Kate Norwalk
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, USA
| | | | - Lily Mullins
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, USA
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18
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Wahome E, Boyd A, Thiong’o AN, Mohamed K, Oduor T, Gichuru E, Mwambi J, van der Elst E, Graham SM, Prins M, Sanders EJ. Stopping and restarting PrEP and loss to follow-up among PrEP-taking men who have sex with men and transgender women at risk of HIV-1 participating in a prospective cohort study in Kenya. HIV Med 2022; 23:750-763. [PMID: 35088511 PMCID: PMC9276557 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess frequency and predictors of switching between being on and off PrEP and being lost to follow-up (LTFU) among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) with access to PrEP services in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study of MSM and TGW from coastal Kenya who initiated daily oral PrEP from June 2017 to June 2019. Participants were followed monthly for HIV-1 testing, PrEP refill, risk assessment and risk reduction counselling. Follow-up was censored at the last visit before 30 June 2019, or the last HIV-1-negative visit (for those with HIV-1 seroconversion), whichever occurred first. We estimated transition intensities (TI) and predictors of switching: (i) between being off and on PrEP; and (ii) from either PrEP state and being LTFU (i.e. not returning to the clinic for > 90 days) using a multi-state Markov model. RESULTS In all, 134 participants starting PrEP were followed for a median of 20.3 months [interquartile range (IQR): 7.7-22.1]. A total of 49 (36.6%) people stopped PrEP 73 times [TI = 0.6/person-year (PY), 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.5-0.7] and, of these, 25 (51.0%) restarted PrEP 38 times (TI = 1.2/PY, 95% CI: 0.9-1.7). In multivariable analysis, stopping PrEP was related to anal sex ≤ 3 months, substance-use disorder and travelling. Restarting PrEP was related to non-Christian or non-Muslim religion and travelling. A total of 54 participants were LTFU: on PrEP (n = 47, TI = 0.3/PY, 95% CI: 0.3-0.5) and off PrEP (n = 7, TI = 0.2/PY, 95% CI: 0.1-0.4). In multivariable analysis, becoming LTFU while on PrEP was associated with secondary education or higher, living in the area for ≤ 1 year, residence outside the immediate clinic area and alcohol-use disorder. CONCLUSIONS Switching between being on and off PrEP or becoming LTFU while on PrEP was frequent among individuals at risk of HIV-1 acquisition. Alternative PrEP options (e.g. event-driven PrEP) may need to be considered for MSM and TGW with PrEP-taking challenges, while improved engagement with care is needed for all MSM and TGW regardless of PrEP regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Wahome
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Anders Boyd
- Public Health Service of AmsterdamDepartment of Infectious DiseasesAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Stichting HIV MonitoringAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Alexander N. Thiong’o
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Khamisi Mohamed
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Tony Oduor
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Evans Gichuru
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - John Mwambi
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Elise van der Elst
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Susan M. Graham
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Maria Prins
- Public Health Service of AmsterdamDepartment of Infectious DiseasesAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMCDepartment of Infectious DiseasesAmsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AII)University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Eduard J. Sanders
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Nuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordHeadingtonUK
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Dauria EF, Kulkarni P, Clemenzi-Allen A, Brinkley-Rubinstein L, Beckwith CG. Interventions Designed to Improve HIV Continuum of Care Outcomes for Persons with HIV in Contact with the Carceral System in the USA. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:281-291. [PMID: 35674879 PMCID: PMC9175158 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00609-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe existing evidence and identify future directions for intervention research related to improving HIV care outcomes for persons with HIV involved in the carceral system in the USA, a population with high unmet HIV care needs. RECENT FINDINGS Few recent intervention studies focus on improving HIV care outcomes for this population. Successful strategies to improve care outcomes include patient navigation, substance use treatment, and incentivizing HIV care outcomes. Technology-supported interventions are underutilized in this population. Notable gaps in the existing literature include intervention research addressing HIV care needs for cisgender and transgender women and those under carceral supervision in the community. Future research should address existing gaps in the literature and respond to emergent needs including understanding how the changing HIV care delivery environment resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the approval of new injectable ART formulation shape HIV care outcomes in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily F Dauria
- Graduate School of Public Health, Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Priyanka Kulkarni
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Angelo Clemenzi-Allen
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lauren Brinkley-Rubinstein
- Department of Social Medicine and Center for Health Equity Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Curt G Beckwith
- Alpert Medical School, Division of Infectious Diseases/Department of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Lawhorn C, Stirratt MJ, Rausch DM. Turning the tide in HIV through health communication research. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25955. [PMID: 35739624 PMCID: PMC9226360 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Collene Lawhorn
- Division of AIDS Research, National Institute of Mental Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael J Stirratt
- Division of AIDS Research, National Institute of Mental Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Dianne M Rausch
- Division of AIDS Research, National Institute of Mental Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
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Patel P, Kerzner M, Reed JB, Sullivan P, El-Sadr WM. Public health implications of adapting HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis programs for virtual service delivery in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2022; 8:e37479. [PMID: 35486813 PMCID: PMC9177169 DOI: 10.2196/37479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The novel coronavirus disease COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 threatens to disrupt global progress toward HIV epidemic control. Opportunities exist to leverage ongoing public health responses to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 on HIV services, and novel approaches to care provision might help address both epidemics. Objective As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, novel approaches to maintain comprehensive HIV prevention service delivery are needed. The aim of this study was to summarize the related literature to highlight adaptations that could address potential COVID-19–related service interruptions. Methods We performed a systematic review and searched six databases, OVID/Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Embase, for studies published between January 1, 2010, and October 26, 2021, related to recent technology-based interventions for virtual service delivery. Search terms included “telemedicine,” “telehealth,” “mobile health,” “eHealth,” “mHealth,” “telecommunication,” “social media,” “mobile device,” and “internet,” among others. Of the 6685 abstracts identified, 1259 focused on HIV virtual service delivery, 120 of which were relevant for HIV prevention efforts; 48 pertained to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and 19 of these focused on evaluations of interventions for the virtual service delivery of PrEP. Of the 16 systematic reviews identified, three were specific to PrEP. All 35 papers were reviewed for outcomes of efficacy, feasibility, and/or acceptability. Limitations included heterogeneity of the studies’ methodological approaches and outcomes; thus, a meta-analysis was not performed. We considered the evidence-based interventions found in our review and developed a virtual service delivery model for HIV prevention interventions. We also considered how this platform could be leveraged for COVID-19 prevention and care. Results We summarize 19 studies of virtual service delivery of PrEP and 16 relevant reviews. Examples of technology-based interventions that were effective, feasible, and/or acceptable for PrEP service delivery include: use of SMS, internet, and smartphone apps such as iText (50% [95% CI 16%-71%] reduction in discontinuation of PrEP) and PrEPmate (OR 2.62, 95% CI 1.24-5.5.4); telehealth and eHealth platforms for virtual visits such as PrEPTECH and IowaTelePrEP; and platforms for training of health care workers such as Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO). We suggest a virtual service delivery model for PrEP that can be leveraged for COVID-19 using the internet and social media for demand creation, community-based self-testing, telehealth platforms for risk assessment and follow-up, applications for support groups and adherence/appointment reminders, and applications for monitoring. Conclusions Innovations in the virtual service provision of PrEP occurred before COVID-19 but have new relevance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The innovations we describe might strengthen HIV prevention service delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the long run by engaging traditionally hard-to-reach populations, reducing stigma, and creating a more accessible health care platform. These virtual service delivery platforms can mitigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on HIV services, which can be leveraged to facilitate COVID-19 pandemic control now and for future responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragna Patel
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC COVID-19 Response, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, US
| | - Michael Kerzner
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC COVID-19 Response, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, US
| | | | | | - Wafaa M El-Sadr
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, US
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22
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Kawichai S, Songtaweesin WN, Wongharn P, Phanuphak N, Cressey TR, Moonwong J, Vasinonta A, Saisaengjan C, Chinbunchorn T, Puthanakit T. A Mobile Phone App to Support Adherence to Daily HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Engagement Among Young Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women Aged 15 to 19 Years in Thailand: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e25561. [PMID: 35451976 PMCID: PMC9073624 DOI: 10.2196/25561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Widespread smartphone use provides opportunities for mobile health HIV prevention strategies among at-risk populations. Objective This study aims to investigate engagement in a theory-based (information–motivation–behavioral skills model) mobile phone app developed to support HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence among Thai young men who have sex with men (YMSM) and young transgender women (YTGW) in Bangkok, Thailand. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted among HIV-negative YMSM and YTGW aged 15-19 years initiating daily oral PrEP. Participants were randomized to receive either youth-friendly PrEP services (YFS) for 6 months, including monthly contact with site staff (clinic visits or telephone follow-up) and staff consultation access, or YFS plus use of a PrEP adherence support app (YFS+APP). The target population focus group discussion findings and the information–motivation–behavioral skills model informed app development. App features were based on the 3Rs—risk assessment of self-HIV acquisition risk, reminders to take PrEP, and rewards as redeemable points. Dried blood spots quantifying of tenofovir diphosphate were collected at months 3 and 6 to assess PrEP adherence. Tenofovir diphosphate ≥350-699 fmol/punch was classified as fair adherence and ≥700 fmol/punch as good adherence. Data analysis on app use paradata and exit interviews were conducted on the YFS+APP arm after 6 months of follow-up. Results Between March 2018 and June 2019, 200 participants with a median age of 18 (IQR 17-19) years were enrolled. Overall, 74% (148/200) were YMSM; 87% (87/100) of participants who received YFS+APP logged in to the app and performed weekly HIV acquisition risk assessments (log-in and risk assessment [LRA]). The median duration between the first and last log-in was 3.5 (IQR 1.6-5.6) months, with a median frequency of 6 LRAs (IQR 2-10). Moreover, 22% (22/100) of the participants in the YFS+APP arm were frequent users (LRA≥10) during the 6-month follow-up period. YMSM were 9.3 (95% CI 1.2-74.3) times more likely to be frequent app users than YTGW (P=.04). Frequent app users had higher proportions (12%-16%) of PrEP adherence at both months 3 and 6 compared with infrequent users (LRA<10) and the YFS arm, although this did not reach statistical significance. Of the 100 participants in the YFS+APP arm, 23 (23%) were interviewed. The risk assessment function is perceived as the most useful app feature. Further aesthetic adaptations and a more comprehensive rewards system were suggested by the interviewees. Conclusions Higher rates of PrEP adherence among frequent app users were observed; however, this was not statistically significant. A short app use duration of 3 months suggests that they may be useful in establishing habits in taking daily PrEP, but not long-term adherence. Further studies on the specific mechanisms of mobile phone apps that influence health behaviors are needed. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03778892; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03778892
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Affiliation(s)
- Surinda Kawichai
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Prissana Wongharn
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Tim R Cressey
- The Program for HIV Prevention and Treatment/ Unité Mixte de recherches Internationale 174, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Juthamanee Moonwong
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Chutima Saisaengjan
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Thanyawee Puthanakit
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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23
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Seiler J, Libby TE, Jackson E, Lingappa JR, Evans WD. Social Media–Based Interventions for Health Behavior Change in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e31889. [PMID: 35436220 PMCID: PMC9052020 DOI: 10.2196/31889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the wealth of evidence regarding effective health behavior change techniques using digital interventions to focus on residents of high-income countries, there is limited information of a similar nature for low- and middle-income countries. Objective The aim of this review is to identify and describe the available literature on effective social media–based behavior change interventions within low- and middle-income countries. Methods This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the 2009 PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We searched PubMed, Embase, Elsevier, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Global Index Medicus, and the final search was conducted on April 6, 2021. We excluded studies published before 2000 because of the subject matter. We included studies that evaluated interventions conducted at least partly on a social media platform. Results We identified 1832 studies, of which 108 (5.89%) passed title-abstract review and were evaluated by full-text review. In all, 30.6% (33/108) were included in the final analysis. Although 22 studies concluded that the social media intervention was effective, only 13 quantified the level of social media engagement, of which, few used theory (n=8) or a conceptual model (n=5) of behavior change. Conclusions We identified gaps in the settings of interventions, types and sectors of interventions, length of follow-up, evaluation techniques, use of theoretical and conceptual models, and discussions of the privacy implications of social media use. Trial Registration PROSPERO CRD42020223572; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=223572
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie Seiler
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Tanya E Libby
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Emahlea Jackson
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - J R Lingappa
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - W D Evans
- Departments of Prevention and Community Health & Global Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
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24
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Sood SK, Rawat KS, Kumar D. Analytical mapping of information and communication technology in emerging infectious diseases using CiteSpace. TELEMATICS AND INFORMATICS 2022; 69:101796. [PMID: 35282387 PMCID: PMC8901238 DOI: 10.1016/j.tele.2022.101796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of severe infectious diseases has become a major global health concern. Currently, the COVID-19 outbreak has spread across the world and has created an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. The proliferation of novel viruses has put traditional health systems under immense pressure and posed several serious issues. Henceforth, early detection, identification, rapid testing, and advanced surveillance systems are required to address public health emergencies. However, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tackles several issues raised by this pandemic and significantly improves the quality of services in the health care sector. This paper presents an ICT-assisted scientometric analysis of infectious diseases, namely, airborne, food & waterborne, fomite-borne, sexually transmitted illnesses, and vector-borne illnesses. It assesses the international research status of this field in terms of citation structure, prolific journals, and country contributions. It has used the CiteSpace tool to address the visualization needs and in-depth insights of scientific literature to pinpoint core hotspots, research frontiers, emerging research areas, and ICT trends. The research finding reveals that mobile apps, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence technologies have greater scope to reduce the threats of infectious diseases. COVID-19, influenza, HIV, and malaria viruses have been identified as research hotspots whereas COVID-19, contact tracing applications, security and privacy concerns about users' data are the recent challenges in this field that need to address. The United States has produced higher research output in all domains of infectious diseases. Furthermore, it explores the co-occurrence network analysis and intellectual landscape of each domain of infectious diseases. It provides potential research directions and insightful clues to researchers and the academic fraternity for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Kumar Sood
- Department of Computer Aplications, National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra, Haryana 136119, India
| | - Keshav Singh Rawat
- Department of Computer Science and Informatics, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharmashala, Himachal Pradesh 176215, India
| | - Dheeraj Kumar
- Department of Computer Science and Informatics, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharmashala, Himachal Pradesh 176215, India,Corresponding author
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25
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Ngcobo S, Scheepers S, Mbatha N, Grobler E, Rossouw T. Roles, Barriers, and Recommendations for Community Health Workers Providing Community-Based HIV Care in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:130-144. [PMID: 35438523 PMCID: PMC9057893 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
While the impact of Community Health Workers (CHWs) on home-based human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care has been documented, barriers and recommendations have not been systematically reviewed. Following the reporting requirements of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we used an aggregative narrative synthesis approach to summarize the results of qualitative studies published between January 1, 2000, and November 6, 2020 in the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. In total, 17 studies met the selection criteria and were included in the analysis. They reported on a range of roles played by CHWs in HIV care, including education and health promotion; HIV-specific care (HIV testing services; screening for opportunistic infections and acute illness); medication delivery; tracing persons who had defaulted from care; and support (treatment support; referral; home-based care; and psychosocial support). Many different barriers to community-based HIV care were reported and centered on the following themes: Stigma and nondisclosure; inadequate support (lack of resources, inadequate training, inadequate funding, and inadequate monitoring); and health system challenges (patients' preference for more frequent visits and poor integration of CHWs in the wider health care system). Recommendations to mitigate these barriers included: addressing HIV-related stigma; introducing updated and relevant CHW training; strengthening the supervision of CHWs; coordinating care between the home and facilities; incorporating patient-centered mHealth approaches; and committing to the funding and resources needed for successful community-based care. In summary, CHWs are providing a variety of important community-based HIV services but face challenges with regards to training, resources, and supervision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanele Ngcobo
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Susan Scheepers
- Medical Library, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nothando Mbatha
- Department of Public Health and University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Estelle Grobler
- Medical Library, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Theresa Rossouw
- Department of Immunology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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26
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Hong C, Abrams LS, Holloway IW. Technology-Based Interventions to Promote the HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Care Continuum: Protocol for a Systematic Review. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e33045. [PMID: 35258470 PMCID: PMC8941443 DOI: 10.2196/33045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising biomedical intervention for HIV prevention. Researchers have proposed the PrEP care continuum to guide and evaluate PrEP implementation programs. Technology-based interventions (TBIs) have been widely used in HIV prevention and treatment programs, including for the promotion of the PrEP care continuum. The rapid development of new interventions using technology and electronic health methods emphasizes the need for a review of the effectiveness of these TBIs. OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the effectiveness and acceptability of TBIs used to promote the HIV PrEP care continuum. METHODS We will conduct a systematic literature search in PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Only intervention studies (ie, studies meeting the criteria of randomized controlled trials or quasi-experimental studies) evaluating the effectiveness of TBIs will be included. We will search the National Institutes of Health Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tools (NIH RePORT) for interventions involving PrEP. At least 2 reviewers will independently screen and select the studies, extract the data, and evaluate the quality of the studies, and discrepancies will be resolved by a senior author. We will provide a narrative synthesis of the included studies and present details about the study populations, interventions, and PrEP-related outcomes of significance. RESULTS The protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42021249562). As of August 2021, we have completed the initial search and identified 1213 records. Study screening and data extracting are in progress. We expect the results to be ready by summer 2022. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this review will summarize successful experiences and lessons learned from the existing literature and therefore inform the design and implementation of intervention studies for PrEP care promotion. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021249562; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=249562. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/33045.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglin Hong
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Gay Sexuality and Social Policy Initiative, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Laura S Abrams
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ian W Holloway
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Gay Sexuality and Social Policy Initiative, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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27
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Sullivan PS, Stephenson R, Hirshfield S, Mehta CC, Zahn R, Bauermeister JA, Horvath K, Chiasson MA, Gelaude D, Mullin S, Downing MJ, Olansky EJ, Wiatrek S, Rogers EQ, Rosenberg E, Siegler AJ, Mansergh G. Behavioral Efficacy of a Sexual Health Mobile App for Men Who Have Sex With Men: Randomized Controlled Trial of Mobile Messaging for Men. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e34574. [PMID: 35025755 PMCID: PMC8851328 DOI: 10.2196/34574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) face the highest burden of HIV in the United States, and there is a paucity of efficacious mobile health (mHealth) HIV prevention and care interventions tailored specifically for GBMSM. We tested a mobile app combining prevention messages and access to core prevention services for GBMSM. OBJECTIVE This study aims to measure the efficacy of the Mobile Messaging for Men (M-cubed) app and related services to increase HIV prevention and care behaviors in diverse US GBMSM. METHODS We conducted a randomized open-label study with a waitlist control group among GBMSM in 3 groups (low-risk HIV-negative group, high-risk HIV-negative group, and living-with-HIV [LWH] group) recruited online and in venues in Atlanta, Detroit, and New York City. Participants were randomly assigned to receive access to the app immediately or at 9 months after randomization. The app provided prevention messages in 6 domains of sexual health and offered ordering of at-home HIV and sexually transmitted infection test kits, receiving preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) evaluations and navigation, and service locators. Serostatus- and risk-specific prevention outcomes were evaluated at baseline, at the end of the intervention period, and at 3, 6, and 9 months after the intervention period. RESULTS In total, 1226 GBMSM were enrolled and randomized; of these 611 (49.84%) were assigned to the intervention group and 608 (99.51%) were analyzed, while 615 (50.16%) were assigned to the control group and 612 (99.51%) were analyzed. For high-risk GBMSM, allocation to the intervention arm was associated with higher odds of HIV testing during the intervention period (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.02, 95% CI 1.11-3.66) and with higher odds of using PrEP in the 3 months after the intervention period (aOR 2.41, 95% CI 1.00-5.76, P<.05). No changes in HIV prevention or care were associated with allocation to the intervention arm for the low-risk HIV-negative and LWH groups. CONCLUSIONS Access to the M-cubed app was associated with increased HIV testing and PrEP use among high-risk HIV-negative GBMSM in 3 US cities. The app could be made available through funded HIV prevention providers; additional efforts are needed to understand optimal strategies to implement the app outside of the research setting. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03666247; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03666247. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/16439.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Sean Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population, and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Special Treatment and Research Program, Department of Medicine, The State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, United States
| | - Cyra Christina Mehta
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, NY, United States
| | - Ryan Zahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jose A Bauermeister
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennslyvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Keith Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Mary Ann Chiasson
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Deborah Gelaude
- HIV Research Branch, Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Shelby Mullin
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Martin J Downing
- Department of Psychology, Lehman College, City University of New York, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Evelyn Jolene Olansky
- HIV Research Branch, Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Social & Scientific Systems, Inc, DLH Holdings Company, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sarah Wiatrek
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Erin Q Rogers
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Department of Systems, Population, and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Eli Rosenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Gordon Mansergh
- HIV Research Branch, Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Effectiveness of eHealth Interventions for HIV Prevention and Management in Sub-Saharan Africa: Systematic Review and Meta-analyses. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:457-469. [PMID: 34427813 PMCID: PMC8813706 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03402-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
HIV is still the leading cause of death in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), despite medical advances. eHealth interventions are effective for HIV prevention and management, but it is unclear whether this can be generalised to resource-poor settings. This systematic review aimed to establish the effectiveness of eHealth interventions in SSA. Six electronic databases were screened to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2000 and 2020. Meta-analyses were performed, following Cochrane methodology, to assess the impact of eHealth interventions on HIV-related behaviours and biological outcomes. 25 RCTs were included in the review. Meta-analyses show that eHealth interventions significantly improved HIV management behaviours (OR 1.21; 95% CI 1.05-1.40; Z = 2.67; p = 0.008), but not HIV prevention behaviours (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.78-1.34; Z = 0.17; p = 0.86) or biological outcomes (OR 1.17; 95% CI 0.89-1.54; Z = 1.10; p = 0.27) compared with minimal intervention control groups. It is a hugely important finding that eHealth interventions can improve HIV management behaviours as this is a low-cost way of improving HIV outcomes and reducing the spread of HIV in SSA. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020186025.
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29
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Delivering PrEP to Young Women in a Low-Income Setting in South Africa: Lessons for Providing Both Convenience and Support. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:147-159. [PMID: 34259963 PMCID: PMC8786762 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03366-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a key tool in addressing high HIV incidence among young women, and breaking the cycle of transmission. From 2017 to 2020, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) offered PrEP, in conjunction with contraception and risk-reduction counselling, to women aged 18–25, in a government-run clinic in Khayelitsha, a low income high HIV prevalence area in South Africa. Drawing on clinical, quantitative, and qualitative interview data, we describe participants’ experiences and engagement with the PrEP program, participant adherence (measured by TFV-DP levels in dried blood spots) over time, and the indirect benefits of the PrEP program. Of 224 screened and eligible participants, 164 (73.2%) initiated PrEP, with no large differences between those who initiated and those who did not. Overall, 47 (29%) completed 18 months follow-up, with 15 (9.1%) attending all visits. 76 (46.9%) participants were lost to follow-up, 15 (9.1%) exited when leaving the area, and 28.7% of exits happened in the first month of the study. We identified two different trajectories of PrEP adherence: 67% of participants had, on average, consistently low TFV-DP levels, with the remaining 33% having sustained high adherence. Few baseline characteristics predicted good adherence. The main reported barrier to taking PrEP was forgetting to take or travel with the pills. Encouragement from others declined as a reported facilitator from month 6 to 18 (family: 93.1% vs 77.6%, p = 0.016, friends: 77.6% vs 41.4%, p ≤ 0.001, partners: 62.1% vs 46.6%, p = 0.096, other PrEP users: 89.7% vs 74.1%, p = 0.020). Disclosure to friends and family in some cases opened dialogue around sex, and helped to educate others about PrEP. Self-reported sex with more than one partner, and sex without a condom, decreased significantly after enrolment (p < 0.001, p = 0.063). In the individual interviews, participants credited their PrEP experience with changing their behaviour. Recognising the challenges with, but overall benefits from a package of care that includes the option of PrEP, lessons drawn from this study can help maximise persistence on PrEP within resource constraints. PrEP providers need to address participants’ need for both convenience and social support.
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30
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Malik A, Antonino A, Khan ML, Nieminen M. Characterizing HIV discussions and engagement on Twitter. HEALTH AND TECHNOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12553-021-00577-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe novel settings provided by social media facilitate users to seek and share information on a wide array of subjects, including healthcare and wellness. Analyzing health-related opinions and discussions on these platforms complement traditional public health surveillance systems to support timely and effective interventions. This study aims to characterize the HIV-related conversations on Twitter by identifying the prevalent topics and the key events and actors involved in these discussions. Through Twitter API, we collected tweets containing the hashtag #HIV for a one-year period. After pre-processing the collected data, we conducted engagement analysis, temporal analysis, and topic modeling algorithm on the analytical sample (n = 122,807). Tweets by HIV/AIDS/LGBTQ activists and physicians received the highest level of engagement. An upsurge in tweet volume and engagement was observed during global and local events such as World Aids Day and HIV/AIDS awareness and testing days for trans-genders, blacks, women, and the aged population. Eight topics were identified that include “stigma”, “prevention”, “epidemic in the developing countries”, “World Aids Day”, “treatment”, “events”, “PrEP”, and “testing”. Social media discussions offer a nuanced understanding of public opinions, beliefs, and sentiments about numerous health-related issues. The current study reports various dimensions of HIV-related posts on Twitter. Based on the findings, public health agencies and pertinent entities need to proactively use Twitter and other social media by engaging the public through involving influencers. The undertaken methodological choices may be applied to further assess HIV discourse on other popular social media platforms.
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HIV/STI Prevention Interventions for Women Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence: A Systematic Review and Look at Whether the Interventions Were Designed for Disseminations. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:3605-3616. [PMID: 34050404 PMCID: PMC8163592 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03318-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review of HIV/STI prevention interventions for women who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) describes the interventions characteristics, impact on HIV-related outcomes, and whether the studies were designed for dissemination. Six intervention studies met the inclusion criteria. Two studies were randomized controlled trials. The interventions consisted of between one and eight individual and/or group sessions. The interventions durations ranged from 10 minutes to 18 hours. The interventions impacts were assessed across 12 HIV-related outcomes. Two randomized control trials showed significantly fewer unprotected sexual episodes or consistent safer sex among abused women in the treatment conditions compared to the control groups. Two studies chose a delivery site for scalability purposes and three interventions were manualized. Three studies examined intervention acceptability, feasibility or fidelity. HIV/STI prevention interventions for women who have experienced IPV may be improved with randomized control designs and greater efforts to design the interventions for dissemination.
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van den Elshout MAM, Hoornenborg E, Achterbergh RCA, Coyer L, Anderson PL, Davidovich U, de Vries HJC, Prins M, van der Loeff MFS. Improving adherence to daily preexposure prophylaxis among MSM in Amsterdam by providing feedback via a mobile application. AIDS 2021; 35:1823-1834. [PMID: 34001705 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Improving adherence to preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) by providing automated feedback on self-reported PrEP use via a mobile application (app). DESIGN Randomized clinical trial among MSM participating in the Amsterdam PrEP demonstration project (AMPrEP). METHODS Eligible participants were randomized 1 : 1 to the control or intervention app. Both allowed daily reporting of sexual behaviour and medication intake; the intervention app also provided visual feedback. Dried blood spots collected at 12 and 24 months yielded intracellular tenofovir diphosphate concentrations (TFV-DP). We assessed proportions of participants with poor (TFV-DP <700 fmol/punch; primary outcome), good (TFV-DP ≥700 fmol/punch) and excellent (TFV-DP ≥1250 fmol/punch; secondary outcome) adherence at both time-points, and the association with the control or intervention app. RESULTS We randomized 229 participants, 118 to the intervention and 111 to the control arm. The primary, per-protocol, analysis included 83 participants per arm. In total, 22/166 (13%) of participants adhered poorly, 144/166 (87%) good and 66/166 (40%) excellently. App feedback did not result in a lower proportion of participants with poor adherence [control: 9 of 83 (11%); intervention: 13 of 83 (16%); P = 0.36]. App feedback did result in a larger proportion of participants with excellent adherence [control: 26/83 (31%); intervention: 40/83 (48%); P = 0.026]. CONCLUSION In this highly adherent population, app feedback did not improve the proportion of participants with poor adherence to PrEP.Clinical Trial Number Netherlands Trial Register: NL5413.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A M van den Elshout
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Roel C A Achterbergh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Liza Coyer
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Peter L Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam
| | - Henry J C de Vries
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection & Immunity (AII), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Center for Infectious Disease Control, Bilthoven
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection & Immunity (AII), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten F Schim van der Loeff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection & Immunity (AII), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam
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Guest JL, Adam E, Lucas IL, Chandler CJ, Filipowicz R, Luisi N, Gravens L, Leung K, Chavanduka T, Bonar EE, Bauermeister JA, Stephenson R, Sullivan PS. Methods for Authenticating Participants in Fully Web-Based Mobile App Trials from the iReach Project: Cross-sectional Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021; 9:e28232. [PMID: 34463631 PMCID: PMC8441600 DOI: 10.2196/28232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile health apps are important interventions that increase the scale and reach of prevention services, including HIV testing and prevention counseling, pre-exposure prophylaxis, condom distribution, and education, of which all are required to decrease HIV incidence rates. The use of these web-based apps as well as fully web-based intervention trials can be challenged by the need to remove fraudulent or duplicate entries and authenticate unique trial participants before randomization to protect the integrity of the sample and trial results. It is critical to ensure that the data collected through this modality are valid and reliable. Objective The aim of this study is to discuss the electronic and manual authentication strategies for the iReach randomized controlled trial that were used to monitor and prevent fraudulent enrollment. Methods iReach is a randomized controlled trial that focused on same-sex attracted, cisgender males (people assigned male at birth who identify as men) aged 13-18 years in the United States and on enrolling people of color and those in rural communities. The data were evaluated by identifying possible duplications in enrollment, identifying potentially fraudulent or ineligible participants through inconsistencies in the data collected at screening and survey data, and reviewing baseline completion times to avoid enrolling bots and those who did not complete the baseline questionnaire. Electronic systems flagged questionable enrollment. Additional manual reviews included the verification of age, IP addresses, email addresses, social media accounts, and completion times for surveys. Results The electronic and manual strategies, including the integration of social media profiles, resulted in the identification and prevention of 624 cases of potential fraudulent, duplicative, or ineligible enrollment. A total of 79% (493/624) of the potentially fraudulent or ineligible cases were identified through electronic strategies, thereby reducing the burden of manual authentication for most cases. A case study with a scenario, resolution, and authentication strategy response was included. Conclusions As web-based trials are becoming more common, methods for handling suspicious enrollments that compromise data quality have become increasingly important for inclusion in protocols. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/10174
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodie L Guest
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.,School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Adam
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Iaah L Lucas
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Cristian J Chandler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Rebecca Filipowicz
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Laura Gravens
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kingsley Leung
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tanaka Chavanduka
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Erin E Bonar
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Injury Prevention Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Jose A Bauermeister
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Lockhart E, Turner D, Ficek J, Livingston T, Logan RG, Marhefka SL. Understanding Technology Fit Among People with HIV Based on Intersections of Race, Sex, and Sexual Behavior: An Equitable Approach to Analyzing Differences Across Multiple Social Identities. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:2618-2629. [PMID: 33751311 PMCID: PMC7982513 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03223-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
HIV disproportionately impacts individuals based on intersecting categories (e.g. gender, race/ethnicity, behavior), with groups most at-risk deemed priority populations. Using weighted effects coding to account for differential group sizes, this study used multilevel mixed logistic models to investigate differences in eHealth use and willingness to use eHealth for HIV-related information among priority populations. Compared to the sample average, Black men who had sex with women were less likely to use all technologies except cellphones with text-messaging and less likely to be willing to use computers and tablets. White and Hispanic men who had sex with men were more likely to use all technologies. No significant differences existed for use or willingness to use cellphones with text-messaging. Future research should consider approaches used here to account for equity and multiple intersecting social identities; practitioners may use these findings or similar local data to ensure fit between eHealth programs and priority populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Lockhart
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - DeAnne Turner
- Yale AIDS Prevention Training Program (Y-APT), Center for Interdisciplinary Research On AIDS (CIRA), Yale University, 135 College St. Suite 200, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Joseph Ficek
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Taylor Livingston
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 816 Oldfather Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588-0368, USA
| | | | - Stephanie L Marhefka
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
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Flynn G, Scherr T, Garofalo R, Kuhns LM, Bushover B, Nash N, Davis R, Schnall R. Usability Evaluation of the mLab App for Improving Home HIV Testing Behaviors in Youth at Risk of HIV Infection. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2021; 33:312-324. [PMID: 34370566 PMCID: PMC8487399 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2021.33.4.312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Improving access to HIV testing among youth at high risk is essential for reaching those who are most at risk for HIV and least likely to access health care services. This study evaluates the usability of mLab, an app with image-processing feature that analyzes photos of OraQuick HIV self-tests and provides real-time, personalized feedback. mLab includes HIV prevention information, testing reminders, and instructions. It was developed through iterative feedback with a youth advisory board (N = 8). The final design underwent heuristic (N = 5) and end-user testing (N = 20). Experts rated mLab following Nielsen's heuristic checklist. End-users used the Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale. While there were some usability problems, overall study participants found mLab useful and user-friendly. This study provides important insights into using a mobile app with imaging for interpreting HIV test results with the goal of improving HIV testing and prevention in populations at high risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Flynn
- University of South Florida, College of Public Health, 4202 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Thomas Scherr
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, 2201 West End Ave, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, USA
| | - Robert Garofalo
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Lurie Children’s Hospital, & Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 1440 N. Dayton Street, Chicago, Illinois 60642 USA
| | - Lisa M. Kuhns
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Lurie Children’s Hospital, & Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 1440 N. Dayton Street, Chicago, Illinois 60642 USA
| | - Brady Bushover
- Division of Scholarship and Research, Columbia University School of Nursing, 560 West 168th Street, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Nathanael Nash
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Lurie Children’s Hospital, & Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 1440 N. Dayton Street, Chicago, Illinois 60642 USA
| | - Rindcy Davis
- H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 West 168 Street, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Rebecca Schnall
- Division of Scholarship and Research, Columbia University School of Nursing, 560 West 168th Street, New York, New York 10032, USA
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Smith E, Badowski ME. Telemedicine for HIV Care: Current Status and Future Prospects. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2021; 13:651-656. [PMID: 34140812 PMCID: PMC8203096 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s277893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of telemedicine has been highlighted, especially in specialties, such as the management of HIV. Recent data were reviewed between January 1, 2019 and March 20, 2021 by searching English language manuscripts for studies documenting clinical outcomes in HIV care and the patient experience. A PubMed, Google Scholar, and bibliography review based on the search terms "HIV," "telemedicine," and "telehealth" was conducted. Studies included in this analysis were comprised of adult patients living with HIV, receiving care for HIV via telemedicine with reported clinical outcomes or perceptions of using telemedicine in the management of their HIV care. Of the 179 studies identified, 12 met inclusion for this analysis. Only two studies provided data on clinical outcomes of HIV (virologic outcomes), one pre-pandemic and one during COVID-19. The study evaluating viral suppression during COVID-19 demonstrated lower rates of virologic suppression and lower rates of missed appointments when shelter-in-place orders were issued compared to before the start of the pandemic. The remaining studies focused on patient-related outcomes as they related to the usability and adoption of telehealth models. Many practices documented the benefits and limitations of telemedicine based on the rapid switch from traditional in-person clinics. Benefits included retention in care for patients who lived a far distance from clinic, privacy for patients not wanting to be seen attending an HIV clinic, and more flexibility in scheduling appointments. Some limitations included patients' access to technology, ability and willingness to use technology, and privacy of patients who are homeless and reside in a shelter where homelessness is 3 times greater in people living with HIV compared to the general population. Healthcare should be tailored to the individual patient by assessing their needs and limitations, particularly with patients who may be at risk for discontinuation of care, particularly in the homeless population. In addition, there are mixed data on factors such as age, sex, and race being limiting factors in willingness to use technology. From the studies reviewed, willingness to engage with technology did not differ by age, sex, or race but did differ by access and willingness to use technology. Greater limitations were access to appropriate devices for telemedicine and digital literacy. Although there have been difficulties with the switch to telemedicine in clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic, many patients have reported being satisfied with care and would be interested in continuing once the shelter-in-place order is lifted. Future studies should focus on the provision of HIV care using telemedicine beyond the pandemic and focus on ways to improve the telemedicine experience for the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Smith
- University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Melissa E Badowski
- University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Section of Infectious Diseases Pharmacotherapy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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Biello KB, Hill-Rorie J, Valente PK, Futterman D, Sullivan PS, Hightow-Weidman L, Muessig K, Dormitzer J, Mimiaga MJ, Mayer KH. Development and Evaluation of a Mobile App Designed to Increase HIV Testing and Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Use Among Young Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States: Open Pilot Trial. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e25107. [PMID: 33759792 PMCID: PMC8074990 DOI: 10.2196/25107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV disproportionately affects young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in the United States. Uptake of evidence-based prevention strategies, including routine HIV testing and use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), is suboptimal in this population. Novel methods for reaching YMSM are required. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to describe the development and evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the MyChoices app, a mobile app designed to increase HIV testing and PrEP use among YMSM in the United States. METHODS Informed by the social cognitive theory, the MyChoices app was developed using an iterative process to increase HIV testing and PrEP uptake among YMSM. In 2017, beta theater testing was conducted in two US cities to garner feedback (n=4 groups; n=28 YMSM). These findings were used to refine MyChoices, which was then tested for initial acceptability and usability in a technical pilot (N=11 YMSM). Baseline and 2-month postbaseline assessments and exit interviews were completed. Transcripts were coded using a deductive approach, and thematic analysis was used to synthesize data; app acceptability and use data were also reported. RESULTS The MyChoices app includes personalized recommendations for HIV testing frequency and PrEP use; information on types of HIV tests and PrEP; ability to search for nearby HIV testing and PrEP care sites; and ability to order free home HIV and sexually transmitted infection test kits, condoms, and lube. In theater testing, YMSM described that MyChoices appears useful and that they would recommend it to peers. Participants liked the look and feel of the app and believed that the ability to search for and be pinged when near an HIV testing site would be beneficial. Some suggested that portions of the app felt repetitive and preferred using casual language rather than formal or medicalized terms. Following theater testing, the MyChoices app was refined, and participants in the technical pilot used the app, on average, 8 (SD 5.0; range 2-18) times over 2 months, with an average duration of 28 (SD 38.9) minutes per session. At the 2-month follow-up, the mean System Usability Scale (0-100) score was 71 (ie, above average; SD 11.8). Over 80% (9/11) of the participants reported that MyChoices was useful and 91% (10/11) said that they would recommend it to a friend. In exit interviews, there was a high level of acceptability for the content, interface, and features. CONCLUSIONS These data show the initial acceptability and user engagement of the MyChoices app. If future studies demonstrate efficacy in increasing HIV testing and PrEP uptake, the app is scalable to reach YMSM across the United States. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03179319; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03179319. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/10694.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie B Biello
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States.,Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States.,The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Pablo K Valente
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Donna Futterman
- Adolescent AIDS Program, Children's Hospital at Montefiore Medical Center, The Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Global Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Lisa Hightow-Weidman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, UNC School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Kathryn Muessig
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | | | - Matthew J Mimiaga
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States.,Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States.,The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angelas, CA, United States
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, United States.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
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Bailey JV, Wayal S, Aicken CR, Webster R, Mercer CH, Nazareth I, Rait G, Peacock R, Murray E. Interactive digital interventions for prevention of sexually transmitted HIV. AIDS 2021; 35:643-653. [PMID: 33259345 PMCID: PMC7924981 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital technology offers good opportunities for HIV prevention. This systematic review assesses the effectiveness of interactive digital interventions (IDIs) for prevention of sexually transmitted HIV. METHODS We conducted a systematic search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of IDIs for HIV prevention, defining 'interactive' as producing personally tailored material. We searched databases including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, grey literature, reference lists, and contacted authors if needed.Two authors screened abstracts, applied eligibility and quality criteria and extracted data. Meta-analyses used random-effects models with standardized mean differences (SMD) for continuous outcomes and odds ratios (OR) for binary outcomes, assessing heterogeneity using the I2 statistic. RESULTS We included 31 RCTs of IDIs for HIV prevention. Meta-analyses of 29 RCTs comparing IDIs with minimal interventions (e.g. leaflet, waiting list) showed a moderate increase in knowledge (SMD 0.56, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.80), no effect on self-efficacy (SMD 0.13, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.27), a small improvement in intention (SMD 0.16, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.26), improvement in HIV prevention behaviours (OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.57) and a possible increase in viral load, but this finding is unreliable.We found no evidence of difference between IDIs and face-to-face interventions for knowledge, self-efficacy, intention, or HIV-related behaviours in meta-analyses of five small RCTs. We found no health economic studies. CONCLUSION There is good evidence that IDIs have positive effects on knowledge, intention and HIV prevention behaviours. IDIs are appropriate for HIV prevention in a variety of settings.Supplementary Video Abstract, http://links.lww.com/QAD/B934.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia V. Bailey
- e-Health Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Sonali Wayal
- e-Health Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
- Development Media International
- Centre for Population Research in Sexual Health and HIV, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London
| | - Catherine R.H. Aicken
- Centre for Population Research in Sexual Health and HIV, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London
- School of Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Falmer, Brighton
| | - Rosie Webster
- e-Health Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Catherine H. Mercer
- Centre for Population Research in Sexual Health and HIV, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London
| | - Irwin Nazareth
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Greta Rait
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Richard Peacock
- Whittington Health Library, The Whittington Hospital, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Murray
- e-Health Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
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Scaling up public mental health care in Sub-Saharan Africa: insights from infectious disease. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2021; 8:e41. [PMID: 34868611 PMCID: PMC8607303 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2021.41] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Models estimate that the disability burden from mental disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) will more than double in the next 40 years. Similar to HIV, mental disorders are stigmatized in many SSA settings and addressing them requires community engagement and long-term treatment. Yet, in contrast to HIV, the public mental healthcare cascade has not been sustained, despite robust data on scalable strategies. We draw on findings from our International AIDS Society (IAS) 2020 virtual workshop and make recommendations for next steps in the scale up of the SSA public mental healthcare continuum. DISCUSSION Early HIV surveillance and care cascade targets are discussed as important strategies for HIV response in SSA that should be adopted for mental health. Advocacy, including engagement with civil society, and targeted economic arguments to policymakers, are reviewed in the context of HIV success in SSA. Parallel opportunities for mental disorders are identified. Learning from HIV, communication of strategies that advance mental health care needs in SSA must be prioritized for broad global audiences. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic is setting off a colossal escalation of global mental health care needs, well-publicized across scientific, media, policymaker, and civil society domains. The pandemic highlights disparities in healthcare access and reinvigorates the push for universal coverage. Learning from HIV strategies, we must seize this historical moment to improve the public mental health care cascade in SSA and capitalize on the powerful alliances ready to be forged. As noted by Ambassador Goosby in our AIDS 2020 workshop, 'The time is now'.
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40
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Sullivan PS, Hightow-Weidman L. Mobile apps for HIV prevention: how do they contribute to our epidemic response for adolescents and young adults? Mhealth 2021; 7:36. [PMID: 33898605 PMCID: PMC8063022 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-20-71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Mobile health (mHealth) tools to address the HIV epidemic have proliferated in recent years. Yet when applied to the United States (US) epidemic, which is driven by new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM), it is not clear how mHealth tools fit in the overall portfolio of biobehavioral prevention interventions and clinical services proven to be efficacious. Adolescent and young adult MSM are particularly vulnerable and reducing HIV incidence among this priority population will require substantial levels of uptake of multiple prevention strategies (i.e., HIV testing, condom use, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and treatment for those with HIV infection). Starting from the premise that adolescents are avid consumers of technology, this paper considers the particular strengths and opportunities of mHealth tools to address HIV prevention and provides examples of mHealth approaches that have been tested or are in development in these areas. Even after mHealth interventions are proven effective, there will be important intervening steps before such tools can be deployed and integrated into existing prevention programs given the diverse landscape of prevention service delivery. We anticipate some of the likely barriers to broad implementation of proven mHealth interventions in the context of the US public health funding and service delivery infrastructure and provide recommendations to increase efforts for future scale-up and dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Lisa Hightow-Weidman
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Hollingshead BM, Dowsett GW, Bourne A. 'It's like getting an Uber for sex': social networking apps as spaces of risk and opportunity in the Philippines among men who have sex with men. HEALTH SOCIOLOGY REVIEW : THE JOURNAL OF THE HEALTH SECTION OF THE AUSTRALIAN SOCIOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 2020; 29:264-278. [PMID: 33411604 DOI: 10.1080/14461242.2020.1820366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The HIV epidemic in the Philippines has been expanding rapidly, with most newly diagnosed cases occurring among 'men who have sex with men' (MSM). New social contexts of HIV are evident in the evolving phenomenon of more MSM seeking partners online via social networking applications ('apps'). This study examines findings from a virtual ethnography of app use among MSM, focus group discussions with community-based healthcare workers, and key informant interviews with healthcare workers, policymakers and researchers in Metro Manila. We argue that participants viewed the expanding epidemic and apps as intimately linked, regarding the apps as 'risky spaces' for 'risky behaviour'. However, such narratives neglected the agentive capabilities of the apps and how they have transformed sexual practice, creating new ways of being as sexual subjects, while perpetuating old imaginaries among healthcare workers of 'hard-to-reach' populations. Such narratives of 'risk' have led to new interventions by healthcare workers on the apps, viewing these technologies as opportunities to reach more MSM for health promotion. However, the interventions have created new complexities by reconfiguring boundaries with target populations. By conducting community-based outreach through encouraging behaviour change in one-to-one interactions with app users, the potential impact of these interventions is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gary W Dowsett
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Adam Bourne
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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Wahome EW, Graham SM, Thiong’o AN, Mohamed K, Oduor T, Gichuru E, Mwambi J, van der Elst EM, Sanders EJ. Risk factors for loss to follow-up among at-risk HIV negative men who have sex with men participating in a research cohort with access to pre-exposure prophylaxis in coastal Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 6:e25593. [PMID: 33000889 PMCID: PMC7527770 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retention in preventive care among at-risk men who have sex with men (MSM) is critical for successful prevention of HIV acquisition in Africa. We assessed loss to follow-up (LTFU) rates and factors associated with LTFU in an HIV vaccine feasibility cohort study following MSM with access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in coastal Kenya. METHODS Between June 2017 and June 2019, MSM cohort participants attending a research clinic 20 km north of Mombasa were offered daily PrEP and followed monthly for risk assessment, risk reduction counselling and HIV testing. Participants were defined as LTFU if they were late by >90 days for their scheduled appointment. Participants who acquired HIV were censored at diagnosis. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate adjusted Hazard Ratio (aHR) of risk factors for LTFU. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION A total of 179 participants with a median age of 25.0 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 23.0 to 30.0) contributed a median follow-up time of 21.2 months (IQR: 6.5 to 22.1). Of these, 143 (79.9%) participants started PrEP and 76 (42.5%) MSM were LTFU, for an incidence rate of 33.7 (95% confidence interval [CI], 26.9 to 42.2) per 100 person-years. Disordered alcohol use (aHR: 2.3, 95% CI, 1.5 to 3.7), residence outside the immediate clinic catchment area (aHR: 2.5, 95% CI, 1.3 to 4.6 for Mombasa Island; aHR: 1.8, 95% CI, 1.0 to 3.3 for south coast), tertiary education level or higher (aHR: 2.3, 95% CI, 1.1 to 4.8) and less lead-in time in the cohort prior to 19 June 2017 (aHR: 3.1, 95% CI, 1.8 to 5.6 for zero to three months; aHR: 2.4, 95% CI, 1.2 to 4.7 for four to six months) were independent predictors of LTFU. PrEP use did not differ by LTFU status (HR: 1.0, 95% CI, 0.6 to 1.5). Psychosocial support for men reporting disordered alcohol use, strengthened engagement of recently enrolled participants and focusing recruitment on areas close to the research clinic may improve retention in HIV prevention studies involving MSM in coastal Kenya. CONCLUSIONS About one in three participants became LTFU after one year of follow-up, irrespective of PrEP use. Research preparedness involving MSM should be strengthened for HIV prevention intervention evaluations in coastal Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth W Wahome
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Susan M Graham
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
- Departments of Medicine, Epidemiology and Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Alexander N Thiong’o
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Khamisi Mohamed
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Tony Oduor
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Evans Gichuru
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - John Mwambi
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
| | - Elise M van der Elst
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Eduard J Sanders
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–CoastKilifiKenya
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Nuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordHeadingtonUnited Kingdom
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Wahome EW, Graham SM, Thiong'o AN, Mohamed K, Oduor T, Gichuru E, Mwambi J, Prins PM, van der Elst E, Sanders PEJ. PrEP uptake and adherence in relation to HIV-1 incidence among Kenyan men who have sex with men. EClinicalMedicine 2020; 26:100541. [PMID: 33089128 PMCID: PMC7565200 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on HIV-1 incidence following programmatic pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake by men who have sex with men (MSM) are limited in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Since June 2017, MSM participating in an ongoing cohort study in Kenya were offered daily PrEP, assessed for PrEP uptake and adherence, and evaluated for HIV-1 acquisition monthly. We determined tenofovir-diphosphate (TFV-DP) concentrations in dried blood spots 6-12 months after PrEP initiation, and tenofovir (TFV) concentrations and genotypic drug resistance in plasma samples when HIV-1 infection occurred. We assessed HIV-1 incidence by reported PrEP use. FINDINGS Of 172 MSM, 170 (98·8%) were eligible for PrEP, 140 (82·4%) started it, and 64 (57·7%) reported PrEP use at end of study. Of nine MSM who acquired HIV-1 [incidence rate: 3·9 (95% confidence interval (CI), 2·0-7·4) per 100 person-years (PY)], five reported PrEP use at the time of HIV-1 acquisition [incidence rate: 3·6 (95% CI, 1·5-8·6) per 100 PY)] and four had stopped or had never started PrEP [incidence rate: 4·3 (95% CI, 1·6-11·3) per 100 PY]. Among 76 MSM who reported PrEP use, 11 (14·5%) had protective TFV-DP concentrations of ≥700 fmol/punch (≥4 tablets a week). Among the five MSM who acquired HIV-1 while reporting PrEP use, only one had detectable but low TFV concentrations in plasma and none had genotypic HIV-1 resistance. INTERPRETATION HIV-1 incidence among MSM with access to programmatic PrEP was high and did not differ by reported PrEP use. Only one in seven MSM taking PrEP had protective tenofovir concentrations and four out of five MSM who acquired HIV-1 while reporting PrEP use had not taken it. Strengthened PrEP adherence support is required among MSM in Kenya. FUNDING This work was supported by the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth W. Wahome
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
- Corresponding author.
| | - Susan M. Graham
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Wash, USA
| | - Alexander N. Thiong'o
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Khamisi Mohamed
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Tony Oduor
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Evans Gichuru
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - John Mwambi
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Prof. Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute (AI&II), Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Elise van der Elst
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Prof. Eduard J. Sanders
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research–Coast, P.O. Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, UK
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Patel VV, Rawat S, Dange A, Lelutiu-Weinberger C, Golub SA. An Internet-Based, Peer-Delivered Messaging Intervention for HIV Testing and Condom Use Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in India (CHALO!): Pilot Randomized Comparative Trial. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2020; 6:e16494. [PMID: 32297875 PMCID: PMC7193444 DOI: 10.2196/16494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leveraging internet-based communication tools (eg, messaging apps, SMS text messaging, and email) may be an effective avenue for delivery of HIV prevention messages to men who have sex with men (MSM) in India, but there are limited models for such internet-based interventions. Objective The CHALO! pilot was an online educational and behavioral intervention aimed to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary impact of a peer-delivered, internet-based messaging intervention for HIV testing and consistent condom use for MSM in India. The messages addressed barriers to HIV testing and condom use and were theoretically based on the information-motivation-behavioral skills model. Methods Between February and March 2015, we recruited, enrolled, and randomized 244 participants via online advertisements on mobile dating apps and Facebook. Eligible men (18 years or older, sexually active with other men, and self-reported HIV-negative or unknown status) were randomized to receive educational and motivational messages framed as either approach (ie, a desirable outcome to be achieved) or avoidance (an undesirable outcome to be avoided) over 12 weeks via internet-based messaging platforms. Participants completed online surveys at baseline and immediately postintervention. Results Participants were similar across arms with respect to sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics. Over 82.0% (200/244) of participants were retained (ie, viewed final messages), and 52.3% (130/244) of them completed the follow-up survey. Of those completing the follow-up survey, 82.3% (107/130) liked or strongly liked participating in CHALO!. The results showed a significant increase in self-reported HIV testing in the past 6 months from baseline to follow-up (41/130, 31.5% to 57/130, 43.8%; P=.04). When including those who reported intentions to test, this percentage increased from 44.6% (58/130) at baseline to 65.4% (85/130) at follow-up (P<.01). When examining intentions to test among those without prior HIV testing, intentions increased from 32% (16/50) of the sample at baseline to 56% (28/50) of the sample at follow-up (P=.02). Condom use during anal sex did not significantly change from baseline to follow-up. HIV testing and condom use did not significantly differ between approach and avoidance conditions at follow-up. Conclusions As one of the first studies of an online HIV prevention intervention for Indian MSM, CHALO! was feasible to implement by a community-based organization, was acceptable to participants, and demonstrated potential to improve HIV testing rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viraj V Patel
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Health System, Bronx, NY, United States
| | | | | | - Corina Lelutiu-Weinberger
- François-Xavier Bagnoud Center, School of Nursing, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Sarit A Golub
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
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