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Stoebenau K, Muchanga G, Ahmad SSO, Bwalya C, Mwale M, Toussaint S, Maambo C, Peters CJ, Baumhart C, Mwango LK, Lavoie MCC, Claassen CW. Barriers and facilitators to uptake and persistence on prep among key populations in Southern Province, Zambia: a thematic analysis. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1617. [PMID: 38886691 PMCID: PMC11184712 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19152-y] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Especially in high HIV prevalence contexts, such as Zambia, effective biomedical prevention tools are needed for priority populations (PPs), including key populations (KPs), who are at higher risk. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been scaled up nationally in Zambia, but little is known about barriers to PrEP use among specific PPs to date. METHODS To understand barriers and facilitators to PrEP use in Zambia, we conducted a qualitative case study of PrEP services to PPs including sero-discordant couples (SDCs), female sex workers (FSWs), and men who have sex with men (MSM) in Livingstone. The study conducted in 2021 included in-depth interviews (n = 43) guided by the socio-ecological model, and focus group discussions (n = 4) with clinic and community-based providers and PrEP-eligible clients including users and non-users across PP groups. We used thematic analysis to analyze data using codes derived both deductively and inductively. RESULTS We found multilevel barriers and facilitators to PrEP use. Cross-cutting barriers shared across PP groups included amplifying effects of PrEP being mistaken for antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV, including anticipated stigma, and concerns about side-effects based on both misinformation and experience. In addition, stigmatized identities, particularly that of MSM, served as a barrier to PrEP use. The fear of being mislabeled as having HIV was of greatest concern for FSWs. Facilitators to PrEP use primarily included the importance of confidential, KP-sensitive services, and the role of informed, supportive family, friends, and peers. Participants across all PP groups urged expanded education efforts to increase awareness of PrEP within the general population toward mitigating concerns of being mislabeled as living with HIV. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first qualitative study of the PrEP cascade among multiple PPs in Zambia. This study provides important explanation for the low rates of PrEP continuation found in earlier demonstration trials among KPs in Zambia. The study also offers recommendations for programming efforts going forward such as inclusive PrEP awareness campaigns, expanded KP sensitivity training, and related efforts to thwart PrEP stigma while expanding access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Stoebenau
- University of Maryland College Park, 4200 Valley Drive, College Park, MD, 20742-2611, USA.
| | | | - Sacha St-Onge Ahmad
- University of Maryland College Park, 4200 Valley Drive, College Park, MD, 20742-2611, USA
| | - Chiti Bwalya
- University of Maryland College Park, 4200 Valley Drive, College Park, MD, 20742-2611, USA
| | - Mwangala Mwale
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Samara Toussaint
- University of Maryland College Park, 4200 Valley Drive, College Park, MD, 20742-2611, USA
| | - Choolwe Maambo
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Carson J Peters
- University of Maryland College Park, 4200 Valley Drive, College Park, MD, 20742-2611, USA
| | - Caitlin Baumhart
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Marie-Claude C Lavoie
- Division of Global Health Sciences, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Cassidy W Claassen
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Guimarães NS, Magno L, Monteiro GMB, Ramos ICN, de Castro CT, Aranha-Rossi TR, Pereira M, Dourado I. Demand creation and retention strategies for oral pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention among men who have sex with men and transgender women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:793. [PMID: 37964202 PMCID: PMC10644426 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08693-z] [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: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) have a disproportionately higher risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection than other groups. Oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective prevention tool and should be offered to those at higher risk. Identifying demand creation strategies (DCS) and retention strategies (RS) to improve PrEP persistence is essential to control the HIV epidemic. AIM We aimed to identify the (DCS and RS with higher proportions among MSM and TGW. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies were conducted, with studies retrieved from five databases until November, 2022 following the Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022323220). The outcomes were DCS and RS for PrEP use among MSM and TGW. Strategies used for users enrolled in the PrEP-recruited (DCS) were classified as face-to-face (peer educator recruitment at social venues, nongovernmental organizations, and parties; direct referrals by health services; friends and/or sexual partners); online (chatbot or peer educator recruitment on social media [e.g., , Instagram or Facebook] or dating/hook-up apps [e.g., Grindr, Tinder, Badoo, and Scruff]); and mixed (face-to-face and online). RS was classified as provider counseling (face-to-face by a health professional; prevention of HIV risk counseling, distribution of condoms, lubricants, and testing for HIV or other sexually transmitted infections); online counseling (text messages, chatbots, telephone calls, social media, and peer educators); and mixed (all previous strategies). Subgroup analyses were conducted for each treatment strategy. Meta-analyses were performed using the R software version 4.2.1. RESULTS A total of 1, 129 studies were retrieved from the five databases. After eligibility, 46 studies were included. For MSM, most DCS and RS were online at 91% (95% CI: 0.85-0.97; I2=53%), and 83% (95% CI: 0.80-0.85; I2=17%) respectively. For TGW, mixed DCS and RS were the most frequent at85% (95% CI: 0.60-1.00; I2=91%) and online counseling at 84% (95% CI: 0.64-0.95) compared to other strategies. CONCLUSION Critical issues play. Pivotal role in increasing PrEP awareness among MSM and TGW, minimizing access gaps, and ensuring retention of PrEP services. Offering oral PrEP using online DCS and RS can reach and retain high numbers of MSM and TGW, and reduce HIV incidence in these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia Sernizon Guimarães
- Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, R. Basílio da Gama, Canela, Salvador, Bahia, 40110-040, Brazil.
- Fundação de apoio à Fiocruz (FIOTEC) Scholarship, Avenida, Brazil.
- Departamento Ciências da Vida, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil.
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Laio Magno
- Life Sciences Departament, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Marinho Bahia Monteiro
- Fundação de apoio à Fiocruz (FIOTEC) Scholarship, Avenida, Brazil
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Izabel Cristina Neves Ramos
- Fundação de apoio à Fiocruz (FIOTEC) Scholarship, Avenida, Brazil
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Caroline Tianeze de Castro
- Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, R. Basílio da Gama, Canela, Salvador, Bahia, 40110-040, Brazil
| | | | - Marcos Pereira
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Inês Dourado
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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3
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Reyniers T, Fiorentino M, Babo SAY, Ouedraogo M, Kanta I, Agbegnigan LE, Rojas D, Anoma C, Dah TTE, Mensah E, Keita BD, Spire B, Vuylsteke B, Laurent C. The Perceived Added Value of Bimonthly Injectable Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis According to West African Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Focus Group Study. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:480-488. [PMID: 37862074 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Bimonthly long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (LAI-PrEP) can become an important additional tool for HIV prevention among West African men who have sex with men (MSM). The objective was to explore the perceived added value of LAI-PrEP as an HIV prevention tool among MSM in Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, and Togo. We conducted eight focus group discussions among 62 HIV-negative MSM between April and May 2021. Participants were recruited via local community-based clinics. Data collection and analysis were guided by grounded theory and community-based participatory approaches. Participants were generally knowledgeable about HIV, and explained particular barriers for HIV prevention in their communities (e.g., denial of HIV). The added value of LAI-PrEP relative to condoms was similar to oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in terms of perceived advantages (e.g., improved sexual satisfaction) or disadvantages (e.g., no protection against other sexually transmitted infections). Compared with oral PrEP, LAI-PrEP was perceived to provide better protection against HIV and to be more convenient (e.g., no need to be mindful of intake and less risk for stigma). Concerns included fear of needles, doubts about efficacy, potential side effects, and difficulties for ensuring timely injections (e.g., when traveling abroad). The results demonstrate that injectable PrEP can be of particular interest to subgroups of West African MSM, although existing HIV prevention tools such as condoms and oral PrEP will remain valuable alongside of, or instead of, LAI-PrEP. Increasing awareness about HIV and tackling discrimination based on sexual orientation continue to be crucial factors to be addressed for HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marion Fiorentino
- INSERM, IRD, Sciences Economiques et Sociales de la Santé et Traitement de l'Information Médicale (SESSTIM), ISSPAM, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Daniela Rojas
- INSERM, IRD, Sciences Economiques et Sociales de la Santé et Traitement de l'Information Médicale (SESSTIM), ISSPAM, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | | | - Ter Tiero Elias Dah
- Association African Solidarité, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- UFR Sciences de la Santé, Université de Ouahigouya, Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | - Bruno Spire
- INSERM, IRD, Sciences Economiques et Sociales de la Santé et Traitement de l'Information Médicale (SESSTIM), ISSPAM, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christian Laurent
- TransVIHMI, Université Montpellier, IRD, Inserm, Montpellier, France
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4
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Bassichetto KC, Saggese GSR, Maschião LF, Carvalho PGCD, Gilmore H, Sevelius J, Lippman SA, Veras MADSM. Factors associated with the retention of travestis and transgender women living with HIV in a peer navigation intervention in São Paulo, Brazil. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2023; 39:e00147522. [PMID: 37132720 PMCID: PMC10210506 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311xpt147522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Travestis and transgender women (TrTGW) constitute the groups with the highest HIV prevalence in the world, with higher probability of infection compared with the general population and lower adherence to prevention and treatment strategies than other vulnerable groups. Considering these challenges, this study describes the factors associated with the retention of TrTGW with HIV to the TransAmigas project. Participants were recruited from April 2018 to September 2019 in a public health service in São Paulo, Brazil. A total of 113 TrTGW were randomly assigned to either a peer navigation intervention (75) or a control group (38) and followed up for nine months. To analyze the association between the selected variables and the outcome ("retention at nine months", regardless of contact at three months, defined by the "full completion of the final questionnaire"), bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used. Peer contact forms were qualitatively assessed to validate and complement the previous selection of quantitative component variables. Of the 113 participants, 79 (69.9%) participated in the interview after nine months, of which 54 (72%) were from the intervention group and 25 (66%) from the control group. In the final multivariate model, contact at three months (adjusted odds ratio - aOR = 6.15; 95% confidence interval - 95%CI: 2.16-17.51) and higher schooling level (≥ 12 years) (aOR = 3.26; 95%CI: 1.02-10.42) remained associated with the outcome, adjusted by race/skin color, age ≤ 35 years, and HIV serostatus disclosure. Future studies with TrTGW should include contact at regular intervals, with additional efforts aimed at participants with lower schooling level.
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5
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Graham SM, Okall DO, Mehta SD, Obondi E, Ng'ety G, Ochieng E, Jadwin-Cakmak L, Amico KR, Harper GW, Bailey RC, Otieno FO. Challenges with PrEP Uptake and Adherence Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in Kisumu, Kenya. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:1234-1247. [PMID: 36219270 PMCID: PMC10036412 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03860-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Data on challenges with pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake and adherence among Kenyan gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) are limited. In this mixed-methods sequential explanatory design study, our quantitative phase followed 157 at-risk, HIV-negative GBMSM who accepted PrEP and enrolled in a cohort with 12-month follow-up. Stored dried blood spots collected at two intervals were batch tested for tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) concentrations at study end. Despite high self-reported adherence, only 14.6% of individuals had protective TFV-DP levels at any visit. Protective TFV-DP levels were positively associated with injection drug use and a self-assessed moderate risk of acquiring HIV, and negatively associated with time since enrolment. In our subsequent qualitative phase, an intensive workshop was conducted with the GBMSM community to identify barriers and facilitators to PrEP uptake and adherence. These data revealed numerous challenges with traditional PrEP programs that must be addressed through community collaborations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Graham
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 139909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | | | - Supriya D Mehta
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Eve Obondi
- Nyanza Reproductive Health Society, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Elijah Ochieng
- Nyanza Reproductive Health Society, Kisumu, Kenya
- Salina Youth Initiative, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Laura Jadwin-Cakmak
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - K Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gary W Harper
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Robert C Bailey
- Nyanza Reproductive Health Society, Kisumu, Kenya
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Thongsak N, Manojai N, Apiputhipan R, Rongram N, Mattawanon N, Bunyatisai W, Plubin B, Nakharutai N, Thumronglaohapun S, Srikummoon P, Wongsawat K, Traisathit P, Homkham N. Risk Factors Associated with Loss to Follow-up Among Transgender Women Receiving HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in Chiang Mai province, Thailand. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:473-483. [PMID: 35930202 PMCID: PMC9362098 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03782-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Although HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is free in Thailand, many transgender women discontinue taking it after initiation. We determined the loss to follow-up (LTFU) rate of transgender women who initiated PrEP at the Mplus Foundation, Chiang Mai, Thailand, and identified associated risk factors using Cox proportional hazard models. Of 235 participants who initiated PrEP, 59 (55%) out of 108 remaining participants had reactive syphilis. The LTFU rate at 6 months was 38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 29-48%). Multivariable analysis indicates that LTFU is independently associated with age ≥ 26 years old (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.06-4.14) and reactive syphilis (aHR = 1.98; 95% CI:1.01-3.88). Delayed appointment scheduling by the PrEP providers and the syphilis clinic was associated with transgender women having reactive syphilis, and the lockdown policy during the COVID-19 pandemic might have influenced them to discontinue PrEP and their subsequent LTFU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natthapat Thongsak
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | | | | | | | - Natnita Mattawanon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Walaithip Bunyatisai
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Bandhita Plubin
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nawapon Nakharutai
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Salinee Thumronglaohapun
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pimwarat Srikummoon
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kanokkan Wongsawat
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Patrinee Traisathit
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Research Center in Bioresources for Agriculture, Industry and Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nontiya Homkham
- Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand.
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Eubanks A, Coulibaly B, Keita BD, Anoma C, Dah TTE, Mensah E, Maradan G, Bourrelly M, Mora M, Riegel L, Rojas Castro D, Yaya I, Spire B, Laurent C, Sagaon-Teyssier L. Loss to Follow-Up from HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Care in Men Who Have Sex with Men in West Africa. Viruses 2022; 14:v14112380. [PMID: 36366478 PMCID: PMC9695325 DOI: 10.3390/v14112380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Loss to follow-up (LTFU) from HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care compromises the goal of HIV elimination. We investigated the proportion of LTFU and associated risk factors among men who have sex with men (MSM) enrolled in a PrEP demonstration project in Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, and Togo. CohMSM-PrEP, a prospective cohort study, was conducted between November 2017 and June 2021 in community-based clinics. MSM aged 18 years or older at substantial risk of HIV infection received a comprehensive prevention package, including PrEP and peer education. LTFU was defined as not returning to the clinic for six months. Associated risk factors were investigated using a time-varying Cox's model. Of 647 participants followed up for a median time of 15 months, 372 were LTFU (57.5%). LTFU was associated with younger age (adjusted hazard ratio [95% Confidence Interval]; 1.50 [1.17-1.94]), unemployment (1.33 [1.03-1.71]), depression (1.63 [1.12-2.38]), and perceiving no HIV risk with stable male partners (1.61 [1.23-2.10]). Contacting peer educators outside of scheduled visits was protective (0.74 [0.56-0.97]). Our findings show that LTFU from PrEP care in West African MSM is a major challenge to achieving HIV elimination, but that the involvement of peer educators in PrEP delivery helps to limit LTFU by providing users with adequate support.
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Affiliation(s)
- August Eubanks
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM, 13005 Marseille, France
- Correspondence: (A.E.); (L.S.-T.)
| | | | | | | | - Ter Tiero Elias Dah
- Association African Solidarité, Ouagadougou 01 BP 2831, Burkina Faso
- UFR Sciences de la Santé, Université de Ouahigouya, Ouahigouya 01 BP 346, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Gwenaëlle Maradan
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM, 13005 Marseille, France
- ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Michel Bourrelly
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM, 13005 Marseille, France
- Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, 93500 Pantin, France
| | - Marion Mora
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Lucas Riegel
- Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, 93500 Pantin, France
| | - Daniela Rojas Castro
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM, 13005 Marseille, France
- Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, 93500 Pantin, France
| | - Issifou Yaya
- TransVIHMI, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, IRD, 34394 Montpellier, France
| | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Christian Laurent
- TransVIHMI, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, IRD, 34394 Montpellier, France
| | - Luis Sagaon-Teyssier
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM, 13005 Marseille, France
- ARCAD Santé PLUS, Bamako BP E2561, Mali
- Correspondence: (A.E.); (L.S.-T.)
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8
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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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9
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Grammatico MA, Moll AP, Choi K, Springer SA, Shenoi SV. Feasibility of a community-based delivery model for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among bar patrons in rural South Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25848. [PMID: 34826363 PMCID: PMC8625837 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25848] [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] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction South Africa, home to the world's largest HIV epidemic, has made great strides in improving access to HIV services, but specific groups, particularly young men, remain difficult to engage in the HIV care cascade. Alcohol use disorder, prevalent in South Africa, further complicates engagement. Congregate settings where alcohol is served, known as shebeens, are an ideal place to engage young people for HIV testing, treatment and prevention, including pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Here, we characterize the uptake of PrEP in shebeen patrons and explore the effect of alcohol consumption on PrEP uptake by piloting a community‐based delivery model. Methods In the rural Kwazulu‐Natal province (KZN) of South Africa, a field team made up of all men offered screenings outside of shebeens at 27 events over 6 months in 2020. Screenings included rapid HIV testing and Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT). Participants who tested negative for HIV were offered PrEP as once daily oral tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine. Short‐term retention was determined. Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of PrEP uptake, including unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval. Results One hundred and sixty‐two shebeen patrons were screened, and 136 (84%) were eligible for PrEP. Among those eligible, 37 (27%) completed clinical evaluation and initiated PrEP. Among PrEP initiators, 91.9% were men, median age was 26.0 years (interquartile range 21–31), 32.4% were employed, 18.9% had running water and 70.3% had AUDIT scores indicating hazardous drinking. Among 37 initiators, 25 (68%) were retained at 1 month, and 19 (51%) were retained at 4 months. Independent predictors of PrEP uptake among all bar patrons, and only men (108 screened and 34 initiators), included younger age (OR 0.92 [0.88–0.97]) and lifetime number of sexual partners (OR 1.07 [1.02–1.13]). Conclusions Community‐based PrEP delivery after engagement at shebeens in rural South Africa is a feasible and novel approach to reach a traditionally difficult‐to‐engage population, particularly young men. In this small sample, sexual risk behaviours predicted PrEP uptake. Hazardous drinking was not a barrier to PrEP initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Grammatico
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Koeun Choi
- Yale Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sandra A Springer
- Yale AIDS Program, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sheela V Shenoi
- Yale AIDS Program, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Closson K, Lee L, Dietrich JJ, Beksinska ME, Hornschuh S, Smith P, Smit JA, Ndung'u T, Brockman M, Gray G, Kaida A. Gender and Power Dynamics of Social Relationships Shape Willingness to Participate in Biomedical HIV Prevention Research Among South African Adolescents and Young Adults. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:639391. [PMID: 36304054 PMCID: PMC9580742 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.639391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Understanding young women and men's perceived barriers and facilitators to participation in biomedical HIV prevention research is important for designing youth friendly services (YFS) and acceptable technologies, which are necessary for preventing high sustained HIV incidence in South Africa. This study explores the multileveled barriers and facilitators to young men and women's willingness to participate in hypothetical biomedical HIV prevention research. Methods: Eight age- (16-18 and 19-24 years) and gender-stratified focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted using semi-structured interview guides to explore young South African women and men's willingness, perceived barriers, and facilitators to participating in biomedical HIV prevention research. FGD transcripts were uploaded to NVivo and coded collaboratively with youth study team members. Thematic analysis using Bronfenbrenner's ecological model (individual, inter-personal, community, and societal) was used to guide a deductive coding procedure, which was documented and compared by gender. Results: Thirty-one participants from Durban and 34 from Soweto participated in FGDs. Individual facilitators for participation were discussed more by young men and included financial incentives and altruism. Concerns about side-effects of biomedical products were a common barrier. Interpersonal relationships with peers, intimate partners and caregivers influenced young people's willingness to participate in HIV prevention research, more so among young women. For young women, gendered power dynamics and distrust of intimate partners and parents influenced both communication regarding participation and willingness to participate in research that is often stigmatized, due to societal norms around women's sexuality. On a societal level, participants expressed distrust in medical and research institutions, however a sense of community that was developed with the study staff of this project, was a motivator to participate in future studies. Discussion: At each level of the ecological model, we found participants expressed gendered barriers and facilitators for participation. Gender norms as well as distrust of partners, parents, and health care professionals were key barriers that cut across all levels. At each level participants discussed facilitators that were youth-engaged, underscoring the need to implement YFS, establish trust and address gender inequities within future biomedical HIV prevention studies wishing to engage and retain South African youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalysha Closson
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Laura Lee
- Branch for International Surgical Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Janan J. Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Mags E. Beksinska
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Stefanie Hornschuh
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patricia Smith
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Jenni A. Smit
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Thumbi Ndung'u
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme and Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts, Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mark Brockman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Glenda Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Office of the President, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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11
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Kimani M, van der Elst EM, Chirro O, Wahome E, Ibrahim F, Mukuria N, de Wit TFR, Graham SM, Operario D, Sanders EJ. "I wish to remain HIV negative": Pre-exposure prophylaxis adherence and persistence in transgender women and men who have sex with men in coastal Kenya. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0244226. [PMID: 33465090 PMCID: PMC7815127 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender women (TGW) and men who have sex with men (MSM) in sub-Saharan Africa have high HIV acquisition risks and can benefit from daily pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We assessed PrEP adherence by measuring tenofovir-diphosphate (TFV-DP) levels and explore motives for PrEP persistence in TGW and MSM. METHODS Participants were enrolled in a one-year PrEP programme and made quarterly visits irrespective of whether they were still using PrEP. At their month 6 visit, participants provided a dried blood spot to test for TFV-DP levels; protective levels were defined as those compatible with ≥4 pills per week (700-1249 fmol/punch). Before TFV-DP levels were available, a sub-set of these participants were invited for an in-depth interview (IDI). Semi-structured IDI topic guides were used to explore motives to uptake, adhere to, and discontinue PrEP. IDI data were analyzed thematically. RESULTS Fifty-three participants (42 MSM and 11 TGW) were enrolled. At month 6, 11 (20.7%) participants (8 MSM and 3 TGW) were lost to follow up or stopped taking PrEP. Any TFV-DP was detected in 62.5% (5/8) of TGW vs. 14.7% of MSM (5/34, p = 0.01). Protective levels were detected in 37.5% of TGW (3/8), but not in any MSM. Nineteen IDI were conducted with 7 TGW and 9 MSM on PrEP, and 1 TGW and 2 MSM off PrEP. Unplanned or frequent risky sexual risk behaviour were the main motives for PrEP uptake. Among participants on PrEP, TGW had a more complete understanding of the benefits of PrEP. Inconsistent PrEP use was attributed to situational factors. Motives to discontinue PrEP included negative reactions from partners and stigmatizing healthcare services. CONCLUSION While MSM evinced greater adherence challenges in this PrEP programme, almost 40% of TGW were protected by PrEP. Given high HIV incidences in TGW these findings hold promise for TGW PrEP programming in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makobu Kimani
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Program, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Oscar Chirro
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Program, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Fauz Ibrahim
- Department of Health, Kilifi County, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Nana Mukuria
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Program, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Tobias F Rinke de Wit
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Susan M Graham
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Eduard J Sanders
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Program, Kilifi, Kenya.,Nufield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
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12
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Crowell TA, Fast PE, Bekker LG, Sanders EJ. Involvement of African men and transgender women who have sex with men in HIV research: progress, but much more must be done. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 6:e25596. [PMID: 33000908 PMCID: PMC7527757 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Trevor A Crowell
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Patricia E Fast
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, New York, NY, USA
- School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eduard J Sanders
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
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