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Kerrigan D, Barrington C, Donastorg Y, Perez M, Gomez H, Davis W, Beckham SW, Karver TS, Mantsios A, Galai N. Individual and Collective Forms of Stigma Resistance: Pathways Between HIV and Sex Work Stigma and Viral Suppression Among Female Sex Workers in the Dominican Republic. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:357-366. [PMID: 37725235 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04169-y] [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: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Intersecting forms of stigma including both HIV and sex work stigma have been known to impede HIV prevention and optimal treatment outcomes among FSW. Recent research has indicated that intersectional stigma can be resisted at the community and individual level. We assessed pathways between HIV stigma, sex work stigma, social cohesion and viral suppression among a cohort of 210 FSW living with HIV in the Dominican Republic. Through Poisson regression we explored the relationship between HIV outcomes and internalized, anticipated and enacted HIV and sex work stigma, and resisted sex work stigma. We employed structural equation modeling to explore the direct effect of various forms of stigma on HIV outcomes, and the mediating effects of multi-level stigma resistance including social cohesion at the community level and occupational dignity at the individual level. 76.2% of FSW were virally suppressed and 28.1% had stopped ART at least once in the last 6 months. ART interruption had a significant negative direct effect on viral suppression (OR = 0.26, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.13-0.51). Social cohesion had a significant positive direct effect on viral suppression (OR = 2.07, p = 0.046, 95% CI: 1.01-4.25). Anticipated HIV stigma had a significant negative effect on viral suppression (OR = 0.34, p = 0.055, 95% CI: 0.11-1.02). This effect was mediated by the interaction between cohesion and dignity which rendered the impact of HIV stigma on viral suppression not significant. Findings demonstrate that while HIV stigma has a negative impact on viral suppression among FSW, it can be resisted through individual and collective means. Results reinforce the importance of community-driven, multi-level interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna Kerrigan
- George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Clare Barrington
- University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Martha Perez
- Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Hoisex Gomez
- Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Wendy Davis
- George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - S Wilson Beckham
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Noya Galai
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Savage V, Gomez H, Perez M, Donastorg Y, Kerrigan D, Barrington C. Trajectories of HIV management among virally suppressed and unsuppressed female sex workers in the Dominican Republic: A comparative qualitative analysis. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2023; 18:2164947. [PMID: 36681941 PMCID: PMC9869989 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2164947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite suboptimal HIV outcomes among female sex workers (FSW), limited research has been conducted on factors that impact viral suppression among this population. Examining narratives of HIV management, we examined how experiences of diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing care behaviours shaped viral suppression outcomes over time. METHODS We conducted 20 in-depth interviews with FSW in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Using narrative and thematic qualitative approaches, we developed analytic summaries and matrices to compare trajectories of managing HIV between suppressed and unsuppressed participants. RESULTS Regardless of suppression status, participants described similar narratives of overcoming initial challenges to HIV management through personal resilience and social support. Unsuppressed participants identified more delays in initiating antiretroviral therapy and more lapses in adherence due to less active acceptance of their HIV status and more persistent experiences of economic hardship and HIV stigma. CONCLUSIONS We found that individual, interpersonal and structural factors, including stigma and economic precarity, differentiated trajectories towards viral suppression among FSW indicating the importance of multilevel interventions. Improved access to mental health services and social support could promote greater early acceptance of HIV status and progress towards viral suppression among FSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Savage
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- CONTACT Virginia Savage Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, 35 Dauer Drive, CB #7440, Chapel Hill, NC27599, USA
| | - Hoisex Gomez
- HIV Vaccine Trials Research Unit, Instituto Dermatologico y Cirugia de la Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Martha Perez
- HIV Vaccine Trials Research Unit, Instituto Dermatologico y Cirugia de la Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- HIV Vaccine Trials Research Unit, Instituto Dermatologico y Cirugia de la Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Clare Barrington
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Derose KP, Han B, Armenta G, Palar K, Then-Paulino A, Jimenez-Paulino G, Sheira L, Acevedo R, Lugo C, Veloz I, Donastorg Y, Wagner G. Exploring antiretroviral therapy adherence, competing needs, and viral suppression among people living with HIV and food insecurity in the Dominican Republic. AIDS Care 2022; 34:1234-1242. [PMID: 34581230 PMCID: PMC8958167 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1981218] [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: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Understanding factors related to suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and detectable viral load (VL), especially among vulnerable populations, is needed to improve HIV outcomes. The Caribbean is highly impacted by HIV and socioeconomic inequalities, but few studies have been conducted there to explore food insecurity among people with HIV and factors associated with viral suppression in this vulnerable population. Using baseline data from a pilot intervention trial among people living with HIV and food insecurity in the Dominican Republic, we examined psychosocial and behavioral factors associated with viral suppression, ART adherence, and competing needs. Among participants (n = 115), 61% had a detectable VL; the strongest factor associated with detectable VL was having missed taking ART in the last six months due to not having food (OR = 2.68, p = 0.02). Greater odds of reporting missed ART doses due to not having food were associated with severe food insecurity (OR = 4.60, p = 0.006), clinical depression (OR = 2.76, p = 0.018), Haitian background (OR = 6.62 p = 0.017), and internalized HIV stigma (OR = 1.09, p = 0.041), while lower odds were associated with social support (OR = 0.89, p = 0.03) and having health insurance (OR = 0.27, p = 0.017). Ensuring that people with HIV and food insecurity have food to take with their ART is essential for viral suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn P. Derose
- Behavioral and Policy Sciences Department, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
- Department of Health Promotion and Policy, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
| | - Bing Han
- Economics, Sociology, & Statistics Department, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
| | | | - Kartika Palar
- Division of HIV, ID and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Amarilis Then-Paulino
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Ministerio de Salud Pública, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Gipsy Jimenez-Paulino
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Lila Sheira
- Division of HIV, ID and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Ramón Acevedo
- Consejo Nacional para el VIH y Sida (CONAVIHSIDA), Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Claudio Lugo
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Isidro Veloz
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- Unidad de Vacunas e Investigación, Instituto Dermatológico Dominicano y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Glenn Wagner
- Behavioral and Policy Sciences Department, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA
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Coetzee J, Mbowane V, Mlambo F, Ndlovu P, Rasego B, Milovanovic M. Whose role is it anyways: Knowledge generation within the scope of sex work. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:2268-2279. [PMID: 35544457 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2063921] [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: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Research within the context of sex work is challenging. The nature of the subject matter and stigma that surrounds sex work has often privileged a homogenous, academic practice of generating knowledge. Based on the lessons and experiences of an existing sex work programme and a recently completed national public health study with female sex workers (FSWs) in South Africa, we aim to highlight the significance and successes of privileging a bottom-up, community centric approach to the design, data collection, and knowledge generation. A FSW programme provided extensive peer educator skills training and learning opportunities. Lessons were applied to the implementation of a national study on FSW across South Africa. Planning workshops with community members and sites and pre- implementation training of all site staff was undertaken. 3005 FSWs were successfully enrolled and surveyed by their peers, over 6-months. Researchers have a lot to learn from community members and should remain vigilant to the power dynamics that their privilege creates throughout the research process. Those seeking to generate knowledge should practice meaningfully engagement and include population members on the study team in roles that allow them to proactively contribute to the process and create knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Coetzee
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.,African Potential Management Consultancy, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Venice Mbowane
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Fikile Mlambo
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patricia Ndlovu
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bontle Rasego
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Minja Milovanovic
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,African Potential Management Consultancy, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Assessing the Relationship Between HIV Quality of Care and Treatment Literacy on ART Adherence and Viral Suppression Among Female Sex Workers Living in the Dominican Republic. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3056-3067. [PMID: 35305180 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03647-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed the relationship between the quality of HIV care and treatment literacy on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and viral suppression among female sex workers (FSWs) living with HIV (n = 211) in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Multivariable logistic regression results indicate better patient-provider communication (AOR 1.04; 95% CI 1.01-1.07) and respectful treatment (AOR 2.17; 95% CI 1.09-4.32) increase the odds of viral suppression, while higher costs reduce both the odds of ART adherence (AOR 0.57, 95% CI 0.34- 0.95) and being virally suppressed (AOR 0.59, 95% CI 0.41-0.85). Greater treatment literacy was associated with an increased odds of ART adherence (AOR 4.15 for understanding of viral load; 95% CI 1.50-11.52) and viral suppression (AOR 2.75 for understanding of CD4 count; 95% CI 1.31-5.80). Findings support investments in treatment education, effective and respectful patient-provider communication, dignified care, and cost-support for associated HIV care costs to facilitate FSWs' pathway towards viral suppression.
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Karver TS, Barrington C, Donastorg Y, Perez M, Gomez H, Page KR, Celentano D, Smith KC, Kerrigan D. Exploring peer navigation and support in the quality of HIV care experiences of female sex workers in the Dominican Republic. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:56. [PMID: 35016659 PMCID: PMC8753897 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07439-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Despite evidence on peer navigation’s association with positive HIV outcomes, such as engagement in HIV care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, the mechanisms through which peer navigation may influence these outcomes have been less explored. The purpose of this study is to describe the role of peer navigation and support on enhancing the quality of HIV treatment and care services experienced by female sex workers (FSWs).
Methods
Survey data was derived from a quantitative cohort (n = 211) of FSWs living with HIV in the Dominican Republic and complemented with data from two rounds of in-depth interviews (IDIs) from a qualitative subsample (n = 20 per round). Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regressions were used to explore the association between peer navigation and relational aspects of care and overall satisfaction of the quality of HIV treatment and care. Thematic analysis was employed to code and synthesize textual data from IDIs.
Results
41.2% of the participants reported having had contact with a peer navigator in the last 6 months. Qualitative data revealed that peer navigation and support was instrumental in assisting FSWs linkage to HIV care after diagnosis, elevating FSWs’ ability to access more comprehensive clinical care facilities, and promoting agency by improving FSWs’ skills to more strategically and effectively engage with the clinic environment and health care providers. Peer navigation was positively associated with experiencing more respectful treatment by clinic staff (AOR: 6.65, 95% CI: 2.32–19.02), and greater satisfaction with overall HIV care services (AOR: 2.57, 95% CI: 1.77–3.74).
Conclusion
Promoting the full integration of peer navigation into healthcare structures is a strategic approach to enhance the quality of HIV care experienced by FSWs and improve their HIV-related outcomes.
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Assessing and Addressing Social Determinants of HIV among Female Sex Workers in the Dominican Republic and Tanzania through Community Empowerment-Based Responses. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2020; 17:88-96. [PMID: 32072467 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00485-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review describes social determinants of HIV in two geographic and epidemic settings, the Dominican Republic (DR) and Tanzania, among female sex workers (FSW), their influence on HIV outcomes including 90-90-90 goals, and the development and impact of tailored, context driven, community empowerment-based responses in each setting. RECENT FINDINGS Our review documents the significance of social determinants of HIV including sex work-related stigma, discrimination, and violence and the impact of community empowerment-based approaches on HIV incidence in Tanzania and other HIV prevention, treatment, and care outcomes, including care engagement and adherence, in the DR and Tanzania. Community empowerment approaches where FSW drive the response to HIV and strategically engage partners to target socio-structural and environmental factors can have a demonstrable impact on HIV prevention, treatment, and care outcomes. Such approaches can also support further gains towards reaching the 90-90-90 across geographies and types of epidemics.
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Project Shikamana: Community Empowerment-Based Combination HIV Prevention Significantly Impacts HIV Incidence and Care Continuum Outcomes Among Female Sex Workers in Iringa, Tanzania. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 82:141-148. [PMID: 31513552 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of a community empowerment model of combination HIV prevention (Project Shikamana) among female sex workers (FSW) in Iringa, Tanzania. METHODS We conducted a 2-community randomized trial. Intervention elements included the following: (1) Community-led drop-in center and mobilization activities; (2) venue-based peer education, condom distribution, and HIV testing; (3) peer service navigation; (4) provider sensitivity trainings; and (5) SMS reminders. We used time-location sampling to enroll 496 FSW and conducted a survey and blood draws to screen for HIV and assess viral load at 0 and 18 months. We conducted an intent-to-treat analysis using logistic and Poisson regression and inverse probability weighting for primary outcomes. RESULTS The analysis included 171 HIV-positive and 216 HIV-negative FSW who completed baseline and 18-month study visits. Participants in the intervention were significantly less likely to become infected with HIV at 18-month follow-up (RR 0.38; P = 0.047), with an HIV incidence of 5.0% in the intervention vs. 10.4% control. Decreases in inconsistent condom use over time were significantly greater in the intervention (72.0%-43.6%) vs. control (68.8%-54.0%; RR 0.81, P = 0.042). At follow-up, we observed significant differences in behavioral HIV care continuum outcomes, and positive, but nonsignificant, increases in viral suppression (40.0%-50.6%) in the intervention vs. control (35.9%-47.4%). There was a strong association of between higher intervention exposure and HIV outcomes including viral suppression. CONCLUSIONS Project Shikamana is the first trial of community empowerment-based combination prevention among FSW in Africa to show a significant reduction in HIV incidence warranting its broader implementation and evaluation.
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Bryant VE, Gullett JM, Porges EC, Cook RL, Bryant KJ, Woods AJ, Williamson J, Ennis N, Cohen RA. History of Alcohol Consumption and HIV Status Related to Functional Connectivity Differences in the Brain During Working Memory Performance. Curr HIV Res 2020; 18:181-193. [PMID: 32065091 PMCID: PMC7315564 DOI: 10.2174/1570162x18666200217100123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poorer working memory function has previously been associated with alcohol misuse, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive status, and risky behavior. Poorer working memory performance relates to alterations in specific brain networks. OBJECTIVE The current study examined if there was a relationship between brain networks involved in working memory and reported level of alcohol consumption during an individual's period of heaviest use. Furthermore, we examined whether HIV status and the interaction between HIV and alcohol consumption was associated with differences in these brain networks. METHODS Fifty adults, 26 of whom were HIV positive, engaged in an n-back working memory task (0-back and 2-back trials) administered in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. The Kreek- McHugh-Schluger-Kellogg (KMSK) scale of alcohol consumption was used to characterize an individual's period of heaviest use and correlates well with their risk for alcohol dependence. Connectivity analyses were conducted using data collected during n-back task. RESULTS Functional connectivity differences associated with greater alcohol consumption included negative connectivity, primarily from parietal attention networks to frontal networks. Greater alcohol consumption was also associated with positive connectivity from working memory nodes to the precuneus and paracingulate. HIV positive status was associated with more nodes of negative functional connectivity relative to alcohol consumption history alone, particularly in the frontoparietal networks. The HIV positive individuals with heavier drinking history related to negative fronto-parietal connectivity, along with positive connectivity from working memory nodes to mesolimbic regions. CONCLUSION Findings allow for a better understanding of brain networks affected by HIV and alcohol and may provide avenues for interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaughn E Bryant
- Department of Epidemiology, Southern HIV and Alcohol Research Consortium and Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Joseph M Gullett
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Eric C Porges
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Robert L Cook
- Department of Epidemiology, Southern HIV and Alcohol Research Consortium and Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Kendall J Bryant
- National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, MD, United States
| | - Adam J Woods
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - John Williamson
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Nicole Ennis
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Ronald A Cohen
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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Goldenberg SM, Muzaaya G, Akello M, Braschel M, Birungi J, Shannon K. High burden of previously undiagnosed HIV infections and gaps in HIV care cascade for conflict-affected female sex workers in northern Uganda. Int J STD AIDS 2018; 30:275-283. [PMID: 30417750 DOI: 10.1177/0956462418804658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Given the disproportionate HIV burden faced by female sex workers FSWs and limited data regarding their engagement in the HIV cascade of care in conflict-affected settings, we characterized the cascade of care and examined associations with new HIV diagnoses and antiretroviral therapy (ART) use in a community-based cohort of FSWs in conflict-affected Northern Uganda. Data were collected via FSW/peer-led time-location sampling and outreach, interview-administered questionnaires, and voluntary HIV testing. Of 400 FSWs, 33.5% were living with HIV, of whom 33.6% were new/previously undiagnosed infections and 32.8% were on ART. Unstable housing and heavy alcohol/drug use were independently associated with increased odds of new HIV diagnoses, whereas exposure to condom demonstrations and number of lifetime pregnancies were negatively associated. In subanalysis among known HIV-positive women, age and time since diagnosis were associated with ART use, whereas sexually transmitted infections were negatively associated. Findings suggest the need for FSW-tailored, peer-based, and integrated HIV and sexual and reproductive health programs to address gaps in HIV testing and treatment for FSWs in conflict-affected communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shira M Goldenberg
- 1 Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada.,2 Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | | | | | - Melissa Braschel
- 1 Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Kate Shannon
- 1 Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada.,5 Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Hendrickson ZM, Leddy AM, Galai N, Mbwambo JK, Likindikoki S, Kerrigan DL. Work-related mobility and experiences of gender-based violence among female sex workers in Iringa, Tanzania: a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from Project Shikamana. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e022621. [PMID: 30287609 PMCID: PMC6173250 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-022621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine how work-related mobility among female sex workers (FSWs) is associated with gender-based violence (GBV) in Iringa, Tanzania. DESIGN Cross-sectional analyses were conducted on baseline data gathered between October 2015 and April 2016 from FSWs participating in Project Shikamana, a community empowerment-based combination HIV prevention intervention. SETTING Participants were recruited for the baseline study using venue-based time-location sampling in two communities in Iringa, Tanzania. PARTICIPANTS FSWs were eligible for participation if they were 18 years or older and had exchanged sex for money within the past month. Four-hundred ninety-six FSWs participated in the baseline survey. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Any recent experience of GBV was examined by recent work-related mobility among FSWs. Any recent experience of GBV was also disaggregated by severity for analyses. All bivariate and multivariate binary and multinomial logistic regressions adjusted for intraclass correlations among women recruited from the same venues. RESULTS Forty per cent of participants experienced recent physical or sexual violence, and 30% recently experienced severe physical or sexual violence. Thirty-three per cent of participants recently exchanged sex for money outside of their district or region, and 12% were both intraregionally and inter-regionally mobile for sex work. Intraregionally and inter-regionally mobile FSWs had 1.9 times greater odds of reporting recent GBV (adjusted OR: 1.89; 95% CI: 1.06 to 3.38; p=0.031) compared with non-mobile FSWs and a 2.5 times higher relative risk for recent experience of severe GBV relative to no recent GBV (relative risk ratio: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.33 to 4.74; p=0.005). CONCLUSIONS Mobility for sex work may increase FSWs' exposure to GBV, particularly more severe GBV. The vulnerability of mobile FSWs to violence, particularly severe forms, demands inclusive services that are accessible to mobile FSWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoé Mistrale Hendrickson
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Anna M Leddy
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Division of HIV, ID, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of Haifa, Mt Carmel, Israel
| | - Jessie K Mbwambo
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Deanna L Kerrigan
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Sociology, American University, Washington, DC, USA
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Adapting the Risk Environment Framework to Understand Substance Use, Gender-Based Violence, and HIV Risk Behaviors Among Female Sex Workers in Tanzania. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:3296-3306. [PMID: 29767818 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2156-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSWs) in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionately affected by HIV and gender-based violence (GBV). Substance use overlaps with these co-occurring epidemics to further increase FSWs' risk for negative health outcomes. We explored the relationship between substance use, GBV, and consistent condom use utilizing baseline data from a cohort of 496 FSWs in Tanzania. Results demonstrate high levels of alcohol use and GBV, and low levels of consistent condom use. Frequent intoxication during sex work was associated with increased odds of recent GBV (aOR 1.64, 95% CI 1.07, 2.49; p value 0.02) and reduced odds of consistent condom use with clients (aOR 0.58, 95% CI 0.37, 0.92; p-value 0.02). We adapt the risk environment framework to contextualize our findings in the social and structural context and to gain insight into intervention approaches to address the intersecting challenges of substance use, GBV, and HIV among FSWs in Tanzania and similar settings.
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Ndori‐Mharadze T, Fearon E, Busza J, Dirawo J, Musemburi S, Davey C, Acharya X, Mtetwa S, Hargreaves JR, Cowan F. Changes in engagement in HIV prevention and care services among female sex workers during intensified community mobilization in 3 sites in Zimbabwe, 2011 to 2015. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 21 Suppl 5:e25138. [PMID: 30033558 PMCID: PMC6055130 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 'Sisters with a Voice', Zimbabwe's nationally scaled comprehensive programme for female sex workers (FSWs), intensified community mobilization activities in three sites to increase protective behaviours and utilization of clinical services. We compare indicators among FSWs at the beginning and after implementation. METHODS We used mixed methods to collect data at three sites: in-depth interviews (n = 22) in 2015, routine clinical data from 2010 to 2015, and two respondent driven sampling surveys in 2011 and 2015, in which participants completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire and provided a finger prick blood sample for HIV antibody testing. Estimates were weighted using RDS-1 and estimate convergence assessed in both years. We assessed differences in six indicators between 2011 and 2015 using logistic regression adjusted for age, duration in sex work and education. RESULTS 870 FSWs were recruited from the three sites in 2011 and 915 in 2015. Using logistic regression to adjust for socio-demographic differences, we found higher estimates of the proportion of HIV-positive FSWs and HIV-positive FSWs who knew their status and reported being on ART in Mutare and Victoria Falls in 2015 compared to 2011. Reported condom use with clients did not differ by year; however, condom use with regular partners was higher in 2015 in Mutare and Hwange. Reported HIV testing in the last six months among HIV-negative FSWs was higher in 2015 across sites: for instance, in Victoria Falls it was 13.4% (95% CI 8.7% to 19.9%) in 2011 and 80.8% (95% CI 74.0 to 87.7) in 2015. FSWs described positive perceptions of the Sisters programme, ease of engaging with health services, and improved solidarity among peers. Programme data showed increases in service use by 2015 across all sites. CONCLUSIONS Improvements in key HIV care engagement indicators were observed among FSWs in two sites and in testing and prevention indicators across the three sites after implementation of an intensified community mobilization intervention. Engagement with services for FSWs is critical for countries to reach 90-90-90 targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Fearon
- Department of Public Health, Environments and SocietyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Joanna Busza
- Department of Population HealthLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Jeffrey Dirawo
- Centre for Sexual Health HIV and AIDS Research (CeSHHAR Zimbabwe)HarareZimbabwe
| | | | - Calum Davey
- Department of Public Health, Environments and SocietyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Xeno Acharya
- Epidemiology and Public HealthHarvard TH Chan School of Public HealthBostonMA
| | - Sibongile Mtetwa
- Centre for Sexual Health HIV and AIDS Research (CeSHHAR Zimbabwe)HarareZimbabwe
| | - James R Hargreaves
- Department of Public Health, Environments and SocietyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Frances Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health HIV and AIDS Research (CeSHHAR Zimbabwe)HarareZimbabwe
- Department of International Public HealthLiverpool School of Tropical MedicineLiverpoolUK
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Carrasco MA, Nguyen TQ, Barrington C, Perez M, Donastorg Y, Kerrigan D. HIV Stigma Mediates the Association Between Social Cohesion and Consistent Condom Use Among Female Sex Workers Living with HIV in the Dominican Republic. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:1529-1539. [PMID: 29687290 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Evidence indicates that social cohesion is a successful strategy to improve consistent condom use (CCU) among female sex workers. However, the individual and layered or combined effect that various types of overlapping stigmas may have on CCU between female sex workers living with HIV and their clients and steady partners has not been analyzed. Drawing on the Abriendo Puertas cohort of female sex workers living with HIV in the Dominican Republic, we used structural equation modeling to test the hypothesis that both HIV stigma and sex work stigma mediate the association between social cohesion and CCU and that they have a layered effect. The results indicated that HIV stigma mediated the association between social cohesion and CCU with clients and partners, while sex work-related stigma did not. There was no evidence of a layered HIV stigma and sex work stigma effect, which may be due to methodological limitations to handle highly correlated latent variables. Findings highlight the need to address internalized HIV stigma within the context of community-based approaches to enhance their HIV prevention impact. This will help to reduce the risk of HIV re-infection with a new distinct HIV viral strain, STI infection, and onward HIV transmission among female sex workers living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Augusta Carrasco
- Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- United States Agency for International Development, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Trang Q Nguyen
- Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Clare Barrington
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina Gillins School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Martha Perez
- HIV Vaccine Research Unit, Instituto Dermatalogico y Cirugia de Piel Dr. Humberto Bogart Diaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- HIV Vaccine Research Unit, Instituto Dermatalogico y Cirugia de Piel Dr. Humberto Bogart Diaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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15
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Logie CH, Lacombe-Duncan A, Wang Y, Kaida A, de Pokomandy A, Webster K, Conway T, Loutfy M. Sexual Orientation Differences in Health and Wellbeing Among Women Living with HIV in Canada: Findings from a National Cohort Study. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:1987-2001. [PMID: 28444470 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1781-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Sexual orientation differences in health and wellbeing among women living with HIV (WLH) are underexplored. Limited research available, however, suggests that sexual minority WLH may experience barriers to HIV care. Cross-sectional baseline data was analyzed from a Canadian cohort study with WLH (sexual minority women [SMW]: n = 180; heterosexual women: n = 1240). SMW (median age 38 years, IQR 13) included bisexual (58.9%), lesbian (17.8%) and other sexualities (23.3%). In multivariable analyses adjusting for age, poverty, education, and ethnicity, SMW identity was associated with increased odds of: clinical (80% vs. 100% antiretroviral adherence), intrapersonal (previous/current injection drug use [IDU] vs. no IDU history, depression, lower resilience), interpersonal (childhood abuse, sex work, adulthood abuse), and structural (HIV support services barriers, unstable housing, racial discrimination, gender discrimination) factors in comparison with heterosexual identity. Sexual minority WLH experience social and health disparities relative to heterosexual WLH, highlighting the need for interventions to promote health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, USA.
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, USA.
| | - Ashley Lacombe-Duncan
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, USA
| | - Ying Wang
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, USA
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, USA
| | - Alexandra de Pokomandy
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, USA
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, USA
| | - Kath Webster
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, USA
| | - Tracey Conway
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, USA
| | - Mona Loutfy
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, USA
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, USA
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Bowman AS, Mehta M, Lerebours Nadal L, Halpern M, Nicholas SW, Amesty S. Strengthening the HIV Care Continuum in the Dominican Republic: Application of a Triadic Implementation Framework to Meet the UNAIDS 90-90-90 Treatment Goal. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2017; 31:407-412. [PMID: 28981335 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2017.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Innovative empirical frameworks to evaluate progress in efforts addressing HIV treatment and prevention barriers in resource-limited areas are sorely needed to achieve the UNAIDS 90-90-90 goal (90% diagnosed, 90% on treatment, and 90% virally suppressed). A triadic implementation framework (TIF) is a comprehensive conceptual tool for (1) monitoring attrition, (2) evaluating operational programs, and (3) measuring the impact of specific implementation goals within the care continuum. TIF will assess the effects of enhanced programs on adherence and virologic suppression within the HIV care continuum at a regional clinic in the Dominican Republic (Clínica de Familia La Romana [CFLR]) and its program serving high-risk, migratory batey (sugarcane cultivation) communities. A retrospective cohort study completed during 2015 collected deidentified data from a CFLR chart review of adult HIV patients diagnosed in 2013. The results were quantitatively analyzed and compared to 2011 cohort data. In 2013, 310 patients were diagnosed HIV positive. The results demonstrated 73% enrolling in care, 28% adhering to care, and 16% achieving viral load suppression. Engagement increased across all steps of the care continuum compared to a 2011 cohort, culminating in a significant increase in undetectable viral load from 4% to 16% (p < 0.001). The batey program showed significant increases in patient enrollment compared to the 2011 cohort (p < 0.001). Meeting the UNAIDS 90-90-90 goal requires enhanced services in high-burden, resource-limited regions. CFLR employs TIF to assess progress and programmatic areas in need of strengthening. Data suggest enhanced CFLR services improve outcomes. Given improvements, maintenance and expansion of similar programs are warranted to achieve the 90-90-90 goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex S. Bowman
- College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York
| | - Mili Mehta
- College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | | | - Mina Halpern
- Clinica de Familia La Romana, La Romana, Dominican Republic
| | - Stephen W. Nicholas
- College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York
| | - Silvia Amesty
- College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York
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Project Shikamana: Baseline Findings From a Community Empowerment-Based Combination HIV Prevention Trial Among Female Sex Workers in Iringa, Tanzania. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 74 Suppl 1:S60-S68. [PMID: 27930613 PMCID: PMC5147044 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background: Community empowerment approaches have been found to be effective in responding to HIV among female sex workers (FSWs) in South Asia and Latin America. To date, limited rigorous evaluations of these approaches have been conducted in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: A phase II community randomized controlled trial is being conducted in Iringa, Tanzania, to evaluate the effectiveness of a community empowerment–based combination HIV prevention model (Project Shikamana) among a stratified sample of HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected FSWs. Cohort members were recruited from entertainment venues across 2 communities in the region using time-location sampling. All study participants gave consent, and were surveyed and screened for HIV at baseline. Primary biological study outcomes are viral suppression among the HIV-infected and remaining free of HIV among HIV-uninfected women. Results: A cohort of 496 FSWs was established and is currently under follow-up. Baseline HIV prevalence was 40.9% (203/496). Among HIV-infected FSWs, 30.5% (62/203) were previously aware of their HIV status; among those who were aware, 69.4% were on antiretroviral therapy (43/62); and for those on antiretroviral therapy, 69.8% (30/43) were virally suppressed. Factors associated with both HIV infection and viral suppression at baseline included community, age, number of clients, and substance use. Amount of money charged per client and having tested for sexually transmitted infection in the past 6 months were protective for HIV infection. Social cohesion among FSWs was protective for viral suppression. Conclusions: Significant gaps exist in HIV service coverage and progress toward reaching the 90-90-90 goals among FSWs in Iringa, Tanzania. Community empowerment approaches hold promise given the high HIV prevalence, limited services and stigma, discrimination, and violence.
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18
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Zulliger R, Kennedy C, Barrington C, Perez M, Donastorg Y, Kerrigan D. A multi-level examination of the experiences of female sex workers living with HIV along the continuum of care in the Dominican Republic. Glob Public Health 2017. [PMID: 28648109 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2017.1342850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSWs) are disproportionately affected by HIV, but there is limited research on their HIV care experiences. This study explored the experiences of 44 FSWs living with HIV in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic along the HIV care continuum using in-depth interviews and focus groups. Data were analysed through narrative and thematic analysis. Individual-level factors that facilitated engagement in HIV care were physical and mental health. At the interpersonal level, disclosure of HIV or sex work status and receipt of emotional and economic support were important influences on engagement. Yet, negative reactions to or lack of disclosure of these statuses compromised engagement, further highlighting the role of stigma and discrimination. At the environmental level, FSWs described considerable challenges with the health system including long waits and treatment stock-outs at their clinics, but were generally satisfied with HIV clinic staff. At the structural level, lack of economic resources complicated care and treatment adherence. Findings underscore the need for psychosocial and economic support tailored to the unique needs of FSWs to maximise the individual and public health benefits of HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Zulliger
- a Department of Health, Behavior & Society, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Caitlin Kennedy
- a Department of Health, Behavior & Society, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Clare Barrington
- b Department of Health Behavior , The University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health , Chapel Hill , NC , USA
| | - Martha Perez
- c Instituto Dermatologico y Cirugia de la Piel , Santo Domingo , Dominican Republic
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- c Instituto Dermatologico y Cirugia de la Piel , Santo Domingo , Dominican Republic
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- a Department of Health, Behavior & Society, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
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19
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Lancaster KE, Cernigliaro D, Zulliger R, Fleming PF. HIV care and treatment experiences among female sex workers living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2016; 15:377-386. [PMID: 27974017 PMCID: PMC5541376 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2016.1255652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSW) living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa have poor engagement to HIV care and treatment. Understanding the HIV care and treatment engagement experiences of FSW has important implications for interventions to enhance care and treatment outcomes. We conducted a systematic review to examine the HIV care experiences and determinants of linkage and retention in care, antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, and ART adherence and viral suppression among FSW living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. The databases PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Global Health, Psycinfo, Sociological Abstracts, and Popline were searched for variations of search terms related to sex work and HIV care and treatment among sub-Saharan African populations. Ten peer-reviewed articles published between January 2000 and August 2015 met inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Despite expanded ART access, FSW in sub-Saharan Africa have sub-optimal HIV care and treatment engagement outcomes. Stigma, discrimination, poor nutrition, food insecurity, and substance use were commonly reported and associated with poor linkage to care, retention in care, and ART initiation. Included studies suggest that interventions with FSW should focus on multilevel barriers to engagement in HIV care and treatment and explore the involvement of social support from intimate male partners. Our results emphasise several critical points of intervention for FSW living with HIV, which are urgently needed to enhance linkage to HIV care, retention in care, and treatment initiation, particularly where the HIV prevalence among FSW is greatest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn E. Lancaster
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dana Cernigliaro
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rose Zulliger
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Paul F. Fleming
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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20
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Wandera B, Tumwesigye NM, Nankabirwa JI, Mafigiri DK, Parkes-Ratanshi RM, Kapiga S, Hahn J, Sethi AK. Efficacy of a Single, Brief Alcohol Reduction Intervention among Men and Women Living with HIV/AIDS and Using Alcohol in Kampala, Uganda: A Randomized Trial. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2016; 16:276-285. [PMID: 27215561 DOI: 10.1177/2325957416649669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the efficacy of a brief motivational intervention (MI) counseling in reducing alcohol consumption among persons living with HIV/AIDS in Kampala, Uganda. Persons living with HIV/AIDS with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Tool (AUDIT) score ≥3 points were randomized to either standardized positive prevention counseling alone or in combination with alcohol brief MI counseling. The mean change in AUDIT-C scores over 6 months was compared by treatment arm. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) AUDIT-C scores were 6.3 (2.3) and 6.8 (2.3) for control and MI arms ( P = .1) at baseline, respectively, and change in mean AUDIT-C score was not statistically different between arms over the 6 months ( P = .8). However, there was a statistically significant decrease in mean AUDIT-C score (-1.10; 95% confidence interval: -2.19 to -0.02, P = .046) among women in the MI arm. There was a nondifferential reduction in alcohol consumption overall, but MI appeared effective among women only. Studies with more than 1 counseling session and evaluation of gender differences in treatment response are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie Wandera
- 1 Department of epidemiology & Biostatistics, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda.,4 Infectious Diseases Institute, Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nazarius Mbona Tumwesigye
- 1 Department of epidemiology & Biostatistics, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - David Kaawa Mafigiri
- 3 Department of Social work and Social administration, Makerere University College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rosalind M Parkes-Ratanshi
- 4 Infectious Diseases Institute, Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Saidi Kapiga
- 5 Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Judith Hahn
- 6 Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ajay K Sethi
- 7 Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Wiscsonsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
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21
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Lancaster KE, Powers KA, Lungu T, Mmodzi P, Hosseinipour MC, Chadwick K, Go VF, Pence BW, Hoffman IF, Miller WC. The HIV Care Continuum among Female Sex Workers: A Key Population in Lilongwe, Malawi. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147662. [PMID: 26808043 PMCID: PMC4726447 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The HIV care continuum among female sex workers (FSW), a key population, has not been well characterized, especially within the generalized epidemics of sub-Saharan Africa. This was the first study to characterize the HIV care continuum among FSW in Lilongwe, Malawi. METHODS From July through September 2014, we used venue-based sampling to enroll 200 adult FSW in Lilongwe, Malawi into a cross-sectional evaluation assessing HIV care continuum outcomes. Seropositive FSW, identified using HIV rapid testing, received rapid CD4 counts in addition to viral loads using dried blood spots. We calculated proportions of HIV-infected FSW who had history of care, were on ART, and had suppressed viral load and we used Poisson regression to estimate the associations of demographic characteristics and transmission risk behaviors with each outcome. RESULTS HIV seroprevalence was 69% (n = 138). Among all FSW the median age was 24 years (IQR: 22-28). Among the 20% who were newly diagnosed and reported previously testing negative, the median time since last HIV test was 11 months (interquartile range: 3-17). The majority (69%) of HIV-infected FSW had a history of HIV care, 52% reported current ART use, and 45% were virally suppressed. Of the FSW who reported current ART use, 86% were virally suppressed. Transmission risk behaviors were not associated with continuum outcomes. CONCLUSIONS FSW in Lilongwe were predominately young and have a high HIV prevalence. Only half of HIV-infected FSW reported current ART use, but the majority of those on ART were virally suppressed. To reduce ongoing transmission and improve health outcomes, increased HIV testing, care engagement, and ART coverage is urgently needed among FSW. Universal testing and treatment strategies for all FSW in Malawi must be strongly considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Elizabeth Lancaster
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kimberly A. Powers
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Thandie Lungu
- UNC Project Malawi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Pearson Mmodzi
- UNC Project Malawi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Mina C. Hosseinipour
- UNC Project Malawi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | - Vivian F. Go
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Brian W. Pence
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Irving F. Hoffman
- UNC Project Malawi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - William C. Miller
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
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