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Chea SK, Kazienga A, Oyugi EA, Menza I, Nasambu C, Ibrahim F, Abdullahi OA, Hassan AS, Abubakar A, Michielsen K, Abbeddou S. Associations between disordered eating behaviour and sexual behaviour amongst emerging adults attending a tertiary education institution in Coastal Kenya. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301436. [PMID: 38861516 PMCID: PMC11166344 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual behavior (SB) is a well-documented pathway to HIV acquisition in emerging adults and remains common amongst African emerging adults. Previous research in high-income countries indicates a correlation between disordered eating behavior (DEB) and engaging in sexual behaviors. We aimed to describe the relationship between DEB and SB amongst emerging adults attending a tertiary educational institution at the Kenyan Coast. METHODS We applied a cross-sectional design nested in a young adults' cohort study. Eligibility included sexually active emerging adults aged 18-24 years. Three DEBs (emotional, restrained and external eating) were assessed using the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire and analysed using exploratory factor analysis. Seven SB indicators were assessed: non-condom use, casual sex, multiple sex partners, transactional sex, group sex, age-disparate relationship and anal sex, and grouped into low vs. high SB using latent class analysis. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between DEB and SB. RESULTS Of 273 eligible participants (female, n = 110 [40.3%]), the mean of emotional, restrained and external eating was 1.9 [0.6], 2.0 [0.6] and 3.0 [0.5] respectively. Overall, 57 (20.9%) were grouped into the latent high SB class. Emotional (Adjusted odds ratio, AOR [95% confidence interval, CI]: 1.0 [0.9-1.0], p = 0.398), restrained (AOR, 1.0 [CI: 0.9-1.1], p = 0.301) and External (AOR, 1.0 [CI: 0.8-1.2], p = 0.523) eating were not independently associated with latent high SB. CONCLUSION There was no significant association between DEB and SB in this study sample. In low- and middle-income countries like Kenya, interventions targeted at DEB among emerging adults towards controlling SB are unnecessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stevenson K. Chea
- Department of Nursing Sciences, School of Health and Human Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Adama Kazienga
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Eunice A. Oyugi
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Isaac Menza
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Carophine Nasambu
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Osman A. Abdullahi
- Department of Public Health, School of Health and Human Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Amin S. Hassan
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health, School of Health and Human Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health, School of Health and Human Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kristien Michielsen
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leven), Leven, Belgium
| | - Souheila Abbeddou
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Bhattacharjee P, Isac S, Musyoki H, Gichangi P, Ma H, Becker M, Hontelez J, Mishra S. Changes in context, typology and programme outcomes between early and recent periods of sex work among young female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288717. [PMID: 37490512 PMCID: PMC10368250 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The sex work context and typology change continuously and influence HIV related risk and vulnerability for young female sex workers (YFSW). We sought to describe changes in the context and typology of sex work between the first (early) and past month (recent) of sex work among YFSW to inform HIV prevention programming for sex workers. METHODS We used data from a cross-sectional survey (April-November 2015), administered using physical location-based sampling to 408 cis-women, aged 14-24 years, who self-identified as sex workers, in Mombasa, Kenya. We collected self-reported data on the early and recent month of sex work. The analysis focused on changes in a) sex work context and typology (defined by setting where sex workers practice sex work) where YFSW operated, b) primary typology of sex work, and c) HIV programme outcomes among YFSW who changed primary typology, within the early and recent month of sex work. We analysed the data using a) SPSS27.0 and excel; b) bivariate analysis and χ2 test; and c) bivariate logistic regression models. RESULTS Overall, the median age of respondents was 20 years and median duration in sex work was 2 years. Higher proportion of respondents in the recent period managed their clients on their own (98.0% vs. 91.2%), had sex with >5 clients per week (39.3% vs.16.5%); were able to meet > 50% of living expenses through sex work income (46.8% vs. 18.8%); and experienced police violence in the past month (16.4% vs. 6.5%). YFSW reported multiple sex work typology in early and recent periods. Overall, 37.2% reported changing their primary typology. A higher proportion among those who used street/ bus stop typology, experienced police violence, or initiated sex work after 19 years of age in the early period reported a change. There was no difference in HIV programme outcomes among YFSW who changed typology vs. those who did not. CONCLUSIONS The sex work context changes even in a short duration of two years. Hence, understanding these changes in the early period of sex work can allow for development of tailored strategies that are responsive to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of YFSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parinita Bhattacharjee
- Institute for Global Public Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shajy Isac
- Institute for Global Public Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Helgar Musyoki
- National AIDS and STI Control Programme, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter Gichangi
- International Centre for Reproductive Health- Kenya, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Huiting Ma
- St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marissa Becker
- Institute for Global Public Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Jan Hontelez
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sharmistha Mishra
- St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Sanya RE, Johnston ES, Kibe P, Werfalli M, Mahone S, Levitt NS, Klipstein-Grobusch K, Asiki G. Effectiveness of self-financing patient-led support groups in the management of hypertension and diabetes in low- and middle-income countries: Systematic review. Trop Med Int Health 2023; 28:80-89. [PMID: 36518014 PMCID: PMC10107175 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is insufficient evidence on the role of self-financing patient support groups in the control of blood pressure (BP) and/or diabetes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We conducted a systematic review to investigate the effectiveness of these groups in BP and glycaemic control. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Global Health, African Journals Online, CINAHL and African Index Medicus for published peer-reviewed articles from inception up to November 2021. Grey literature was obtained from OpenGrey. Studies on patient support groups for hypertension and/or diabetes with a component of pooling financial resources, conducted in LMICs, were included. Narrative reviews, commentaries, editorials and articles published in languages other than English and French were excluded. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the National Institutes of Health Quality assessment tool and the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Results are reported according to PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Of 724 records screened, three studies met the criteria: two trials conducted in Kenya and a retrospective cohort study conducted in Cambodia. All studies reported improvement in BP control after 12 months follow-up with reductions in systolic BP of 23, 14.8, and 16.9 mmHg, respectively. Two studies reported diabetes parameters. The first reported improvement in HbA1c (reduction from baseline 10.8%, to 10.6% at 6 months) and random blood sugar (baseline 8.9 mmol/L, to 8.5 mmol/L at 6 months) but these changes did not achieve statistical significance. The second reported a reduction in fasting blood glucose (baseline-216 mg/dl, 12 months-159 mg/dl) in diabetic patients on medication. CONCLUSION Self-financing patient support groups for diabetes and hypertension are potentially effective in the control of BP and diabetes in LMICs. More studies are needed to add to the scarce evidence base on the role of self-financing patient support groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Sanya
- Chronic Diseases Management Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Erin Stewart Johnston
- Julius Global Health, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Kibe
- Chronic Diseases Management Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mahmoud Werfalli
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Sloan Mahone
- Oxford Centre for the History of Science, Medicine and Technology, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Naomi S Levitt
- Chronic Disease Initiative for Africa Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kerstin Klipstein-Grobusch
- Julius Global Health, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Gershim Asiki
- Chronic Diseases Management Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
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Macharia P, Moore S, Thomann M, Mwangi P, Kombo B, King R, Lazarus L, Lorway R. The precarity of mobile loan debt and repayment among female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya: Implications for sexual health. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2184484. [PMID: 36934431 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2184484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2023]
Abstract
Financial technology tools have been utilised to create readily available mobile loan platforms for urban-based, daily-wage earners in Kenya. From a financial lending perspective, this development signals greater inclusion and equality in formal bank financing systems. In this paper, however, we examine mobile loans and their repayment from the perspective of women who sell sex in Nairobi, drawing upon the qualitative findings of two community-based studies conducted in close collaboration with sex worker-led organisations serving the sexual health needs of their peers. Our findings suggest that mobile loans may undermine the financial security strategies and economic independence of sex workers, leaving these women in more precarious economic circumstances, which have been shown in other instances to have effects on sexual risk taking and vulnerability to HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Macharia
- Health Options for Young Men Against STI/HIV/AIDS, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samantha Moore
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Matthew Thomann
- Department of Anthropology, University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Peninah Mwangi
- Bar Hostess Empowerment and Support Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bernadette Kombo
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Regine King
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Lisa Lazarus
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Robert Lorway
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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Reed E, West BS, Frost E, Salazar M, Silverman JG, McIntosh CT, Gómez MGR, Urada LA, Brouwer KC. Economic vulnerability, violence, and sexual risk factors for HIV among female sex workers in Tijuana, Mexico. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3210-3219. [PMID: 35380288 PMCID: PMC8980205 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03670-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Economic vulnerability is often reported to underlie involvement in sex work among female sex workers (FSW), but may also create urgency in women's work, limiting women's negotiating power with clients and in turn, increasing their vulnerability for violence and HIV. This study assessed economic vulnerability in relation to violence and sexual risk behaviors for HIV among a sample of FSW in Tijuana, Mexico. FSW at least 18 years of age were recruited through venue-based sampling for a survey (n = 228) and in-depth interviews (n = 50) to investigate HIV risk factors in this region. Using crude and adjusted logistic regression models, we assessed lack of financial support from others as well as reports of financial hardship separately in relation to experiencing sexual violence (e.g. by clients, police, relationship partners, in the past 6 months), physical violence (past 6 months), STI diagnosis, and inconsistent condom use (past 30 days). Qualitative interviews (n = 50), conducted with a subsample of the survey participants, were also examined for related themes. FSW who reported no financial support were more likely to report sexual violence (OR = 2.1; 95% CI:1.1-4.2). FSW who reported financial hardship were more likely to experience sexual violence (OR = 1.9; 95% CI:1.1-3.6) and physical violence (OR = 1.9; 95% CI:1.1-3.6), as well as to report past 30-day inconsistent condom use (OR = 2.4; 95%CI: 1.3-4.6) and to test positive for an STI (OR = 1.9; 95% CI:1.1-3.4). Qualitative data substantiated these findings. Findings suggest that interventions to improve economic well-being may be useful to prevent the intersecting concerns of violence and HIV among FSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Reed
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, 92182-4162, San Diego, California, USA.
| | - Brooke S West
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Frost
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, 92182-4162, San Diego, California, USA
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marissa Salazar
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, 92182-4162, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jay G Silverman
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | | | - María Gudelia Rangel Gómez
- US-Mexico Border Health Commission, Tijuana, Mexico
- El Colegio de la Frontera Norte (COLEF), Tijuana, Mexico
| | - Lianne A Urada
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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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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Mantsios A, Muraleetharan O, Donastorg Y, Perez M, Gomez H, Shembilu C, Beckham SW, Karver TS, Davis W, Likindikoki S, Mbwambo J, Barrington C, Kerrigan D. "She is the one who knows": A qualitative exploration of oral and injectable PrEP as part of a community empowerment approach to HIV prevention among female sex workers in the Dominican Republic and Tanzania. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000981. [PMID: 36712835 PMCID: PMC9880901 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Despite documented interest among female sex workers (FSW), uptake of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention has been low. Recent trials and regulatory approval of long-acting injectable (LAI) PrEP offer new hope for the potential of this biomedical intervention. We examined FSW's PrEP-related interest and preferences regarding both oral and LAI PrEP situating these dynamics within their specific social and occupational realities. We conducted this work using qualitative methods across two distinct contexts by conducting 40 in-depth interviews with FSW in Tanzania and the Dominican Republic. Textual data was coded using iterative thematic content analysis. Analytic summaries were developed and reviewed to identify recurring themes. We systematically organized themes within each country and then compared across settings. Women in both settings expressed strong interest in PrEP seeing it as an important option to protect themselves in their work. Most participants preferred LAI PrEP due to expectations of reduced stigma and concerns about daily pill adherence and side effects. Occupational factors such as alcohol use, overnight dates with clients, and fear of violence from clients were identified as barriers to daily oral PrEP. LAI PrEP was seen as having the potential to reduce stress related to oral PrEP. Women who preferred pills discussed fear of needles, skepticism about the injections, and others relayed that taking a daily pill would not be challenging for them. There was a pre-dominant sentiment that women know best whether they are better suited for oral or LAI PrEP. Participants stressed the importance of FSW understanding both options to ensure informed decision-making around PrEP and described community-led peer education as key to delivering trusted information. Community empowerment approaches led by FSW which address structural and psychosocial constraints and promote safe work environments may facilitate equitable access and uptake of PrEP among FSW across settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mantsios
- Public Health Innovation & Action, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ohvia Muraleetharan
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- Department of Health Policy, Instituto Dominicano de Dermatologia y Cirugia de Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Martha Perez
- Department of Health Policy, Instituto Dominicano de Dermatologia y Cirugia de Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Hoisex Gomez
- Department of Health Policy, Instituto Dominicano de Dermatologia y Cirugia de Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Catherine Shembilu
- Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - S. Wilson Beckham
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Tahilin Sanchez Karver
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Wendy Davis
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jessie Mbwambo
- Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Clare Barrington
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
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Ayala G, Sprague L, van der Merwe LLA, Thomas RM, Chang J, Arreola S, Davis SLM, Taslim A, Mienies K, Nilo A, Mworeko L, Hikuam F, de Leon Moreno CG, Izazola-Licea JA. Peer- and community-led responses to HIV: A scoping review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260555. [PMID: 34852001 PMCID: PMC8635382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In June 2021, United Nations (UN) Member States committed to ambitious targets for scaling up community-led responses by 2025 toward meeting the goals of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030. These targets build on UN Member States 2016 commitments to ensure that 30% of HIV testing and treatment programmes are community-led by 2030. At its current pace, the world is not likely to meet these nor other global HIV targets, as evidenced by current epidemiologic trends. The COVID-19 pandemic threatens to further slow momentum made to date. The purpose of this paper is to review available evidence on the comparative advantages of community-led HIV responses that can better inform policy making towards getting the world back on track. METHODS We conducted a scoping review to gather available evidence on peer- and community-led HIV responses. Using UNAIDS' definition of 'community-led' and following PRISMA guidelines, we searched peer-reviewed literature published from January 1982 through September 2020. We limited our search to articles reporting findings from randomized controlled trials as well as from quasi-experimental, prospective, pre/post-test evaluation, and cross-sectional study designs. The overall goals of this scoping review were to gather available evidence on community-led responses and their impact on HIV outcomes, and to identify key concepts that can be used to quickly inform policy, practice, and research. FINDINGS Our initial search yielded 279 records. After screening for relevance and conducting cross-validation, 48 articles were selected. Most studies took place in the global south (n = 27) and a third (n = 17) involved youth. Sixty-five percent of articles (n = 31) described the comparative advantage of peer- and community-led direct services, e.g., prevention and education (n = 23) testing, care, and treatment programs (n = 8). We identified more than 40 beneficial outcomes linked to a range of peer- and community-led HIV activities. They include improved HIV-related knowledge, attitudes, intentions, self-efficacy, risk behaviours, risk appraisals, health literacy, adherence, and viral suppression. Ten studies reported improvements in HIV service access, quality, linkage, utilization, and retention resulting from peer- or community-led programs or initiatives. Three studies reported structural level changes, including positive influences on clinic wait times, treatment stockouts, service coverage, and exclusionary practices. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Findings from our scoping review underscore the comparative advantage of peer- and community-led HIV responses. Specifically, the evidence from the published literature leads us to recommend, where possible, that prevention programs, especially those intended for people living with and disproportionately affected by HIV, be peer- and community-led. In addition, treatment services should strive to integrate specific peer- and community-led components informed by differentiated care models. Future research is needed and should focus on generating additional quantitative evidence on cost effectiveness and on the synergistic effects of bundling two or more peer- and community-led interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Ayala
- MPact Global Action for Gay Men’s Health and Rights, Oakland, CA, United States of America
- Alameda County Department of Public Health, Oakland, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Laurel Sprague
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - L. Leigh-Ann van der Merwe
- Social, Health and Empowerment Feminist Collective of Transgender Women in Africa, East London, South Africa
- Innovative Response Globally to Transgender Women and HIV (IRGT), Oakland, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Judy Chang
- International Network of People Who Use Drugs, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sonya Arreola
- MPact Global Action for Gay Men’s Health and Rights, Oakland, CA, United States of America
- Arreola Research, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | | | | | - Keith Mienies
- The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Lillian Mworeko
- International Community of Women Living with HIV Eastern Africa, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Felicita Hikuam
- AIDS and Rights Alliance for Southern Africa, Windhoek, Namibia
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Vélez-Grau C, El-Bassel N, McCrimmon T, Chang M, Terlikbayeva A, Primbetova S, Mergenova G, Witte SS. Suicidal ideation among women who engage in sex work and have a history of drug use in Kazakhstan. MENTAL HEALTH & PREVENTION 2021; 23:200208. [PMID: 38031555 PMCID: PMC10686267 DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2021.200208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Suicide rates in Kazakhstan rank fourth worldwide. Suicidal ideation is a strong predictor of death by suicide. Yet there is limited information about factors associated with suicidal ideation among women who engage in sex work (WESW) with a history of drug use. Guided by the Diathesis-Stress Theory of Suicide, this study examined the risk and protective factors associated with suicidal ideation among WESW in Kazakhstan. Data drew from the baseline assessments from a sample of four hundred women who participated in a cluster randomized control trial comparing a treatment arm which received a combination of HIV Risk Reduction (HIVRR) and microfinance intervention, and a control arm which received HIVRR alone. Multiple logistic regression models controlling for sociodemographic characteristics examined the effects of risk and protective factors on suicidal ideation. More than half of the participants (52.5%) reported suicidal ideation in the past seven days. Women with vulnerabilities such as child sexual abuse and harmful alcohol use and stressors such as stigma were more likely to think about suicide compared with those who did not. Keeping income from sex work was associated with a lower risk of suicidal ideation. HIV interventions targeting WESW and use drugs must include a mental health component to decrease the risk of suicidal ideation among this group. Women's ability to keep income from sex work suggests the potential to strengthen women's financial stability as a source of empowerment, which may in turn lessen the detrimental effects of childhood adversities and life stressors experienced by WESW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Vélez-Grau
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, USA
- McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research, USA 1 Washington Square N, New York, New York 10003, Unites States
| | - Nabila El-Bassel
- Columbia University School of Social Work, USA 1255 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027, United States
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia 38B, Shashkina Str. 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Tara McCrimmon
- Columbia University School of Social Work, USA 1255 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027, United States
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia 38B, Shashkina Str. 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Mingway Chang
- Columbia University School of Social Work, USA 1255 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027, United States
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia 38B, Shashkina Str. 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Assel Terlikbayeva
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia 38B, Shashkina Str. 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Sholpan Primbetova
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia 38B, Shashkina Str. 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Gaukhar Mergenova
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia 38B, Shashkina Str. 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, USA 1255 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027, United States
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia 38B, Shashkina Str. 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
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Singer RB, Johnson AK, Crooks N, Bruce D, Wesp L, Karczmar A, Mkandawire-Valhmu L, Sherman S. "Feeling Safe, Feeling Seen, Feeling Free": Combating stigma and creating culturally safe care for sex workers in Chicago. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253749. [PMID: 34185795 PMCID: PMC8241054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have established that sex workers experience discrimination and stigma within healthcare settings, limiting their access and receipt of culturally safe care. These barriers impact sex workers' ability and desire to routinely engage with the healthcare system. Community empowerment interventions that are culturally safe offer an effective strategy to improve access to services and health outcomes for sex workers. OBJECTIVES This project was designed to inform the development of community empowerment interventions for sex workers by understanding their self-management, health promotion, and harm reduction needs. METHODS In-depth interviews (N = 21) were conducted with sex workers in Chicago. Transcripts of individual interviews were analyzed in Dedoose using rapid content analysis. RESULTS Participants had a mean age of 32.7 years; 45% identified as White, 20% as Black, 15% as Latinx, and 20% as multiple races; 80% identified as Queer. A total of 52% of participants identified as cisgender women, 33% as transgender or gender fluid, 10% as cisgender men, and 5% declined to answer. Themes of self-management practices, stigmatizing and culturally unsafe experiences with healthcare providers, and the prohibitive cost of healthcare emerged as consistent barriers to routinely accessing healthcare. Despite identifying patient-centered care as a desired healthcare model, many participants did not report receiving care that was respectful or culturally responsive. Themes also included developing strategies to identify sex worker-safe care providers, creating false self-narratives and health histories in order to safely access care, and creating self-care routines that serve as alternatives to primary care. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate how patient-centered care for sex-workers in Chicago might include holistic wellness exercises, accessible pay scales for services, and destigmatizing healthcare praxis. Focus on culturally safe healthcare provision presents needs beyond individualized, or even community-level, interventions. Ongoing provider training and inbuilt, systemic responsivity to patient needs and contexts is crucial to patient-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randi Beth Singer
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Amy K. Johnson
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Natasha Crooks
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Douglas Bruce
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Science and Health, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Linda Wesp
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Alexa Karczmar
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Lucy Mkandawire-Valhmu
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Susan Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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11
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Namey E, Lorenzetti L, O'Regan A, Tenaw E, Feleke E, Girima E. The financial lives of female sex workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Implications for economic strengthening interventions for HIV prevention. AIDS Care 2021; 34:379-387. [PMID: 34180728 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1944600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the financial context of the lives of female sex workers (FSWs) is essential to address structural drivers of HIV risk. We used a financial diary methodology to record daily financial transactions over six weeks from a stratified purposive sample (n = 34) of FSWs in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. FSWs also provided information on their experience with gender-based violence and condom use. FSWs generated 90.1% of total cash from sex work, with a median weekly income of USD 60.53. They engaged mostly in protected vaginal sex, earning approximately USD 4.57 per act. Food, housing, and clothing represented the largest areas of expenditure. Around 17% of expenses were recorded as costs of sex work (e.g., alcohol). Median weekly expenditures accounted for 62% of median weekly income. Nearly all participants reported depositing money into savings at least once over six weeks, while 71% reported a loan transaction during the six-week period, most as borrowers. Findings suggest that financial literacy and formalized savings activities, with life skills and empowerment training, have potential to build FSW's economic resilience, mitigating a structural driver of sex work and HIV risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Namey
- Behavioral, Epidemiological, and Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lara Lorenzetti
- Behavioral, Epidemiological, and Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Amy O'Regan
- Behavioral, Epidemiological, and Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eskindir Tenaw
- Independent Consultant, FHI 360 Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Engdasew Feleke
- Independent Consultant, FHI 360 Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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12
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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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13
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Robinson RS, Zayed H. Understanding the capacity of community-based groups to mobilise and engage in social action for health: Results from Avahan. Glob Public Health 2020; 16:1590-1603. [PMID: 33106086 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1837912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Community mobilisation improves outcomes from HIV to maternal and child health. Yet, little health research has explored why some community groups are better able to mobilise than others. We address this gap by considering the case of Avahan, the India AIDS Initiative, which sought to foster community mobilisation, including the creation of community-based groups serving men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSWs), and injection drug users (IDUs). Using quantitative and qualitative data collected from 58 community-based groups from 2009-2012 across six Indian states, we analyse variation in groups' action on behalf of their members. Based on a mixed effects logistic regression, we find that older groups and those with bank accounts, crisis committees, or strategic relationships were most likely to take action on behalf of members by demanding rights or confronting gatekeepers and opinion leaders. Analysis of qualitative data reveals the types of action organisations took on behalf of members (mediation, removal of community members from harm, and advocacy), but also that sometimes organisations refused to take action, or community members declined their assistance. These findings indicate that organisations formalising, creating structures for social action, and building networks are important strategies to foster community mobilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hatem Zayed
- School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC, USA
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14
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Busza J, Chiyaka T, Musemburi S, Fearon E, Davey C, Chabata S, Mushati P, Dirawo J, Napierala S, Phillips AN, Cowan FM, Hargreaves JR. Enhancing national prevention and treatment services for sex workers in Zimbabwe: a process evaluation of the SAPPH-IRe trial. Health Policy Plan 2020; 34:337-345. [PMID: 31157368 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czz037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted HIV interventions for female sex workers (FSW) combine biomedical technologies, behavioural change and community mobilization with the aim of empowering FSW and improving prevention and treatment. Understanding how to deliver combined interventions most effectively in sub-Saharan Africa is critical to the HIV response. The Sisters' Antiretroviral Programme for Prevention of HIV: an Integrated Response (SAPPH-Ire) randomized controlled trial in Zimbabwe tested an intervention to improve FSW engagement with HIV services. After 2 years, results of the trial showed no significant difference between study arms in proportion of FSW with HIV viral load ≥1000 copies/ml as steep declines occurred in both. We present the results of a process evaluation aiming to track the intervention's implementation, assess its feasibility and accessibility, and situate trial results within the national HIV policy context. We conducted a mixed methods study using data from routine programme statistics, qualitative interviews with participants and respondent driven surveys. The intervention proved feasible to deliver and was acceptable to FSW and providers. Intervention clinics saw more new FSW (4082 vs 2754), performed over twice as many HIV tests (2606 vs 1151) and nearly double the number of women were diagnosed with HIV (1042 vs 546). Community mobilization meetings in intervention sites also attracted higher numbers. We identified some gaps in programme fidelity: offering pre-exposure prophylaxis took time to engage FSW, viral load monitoring was not performed, and ratio of peer educators to FSW was lower than intended. During the trial, reaching FSW with HIV testing and treatment became a national priority, leading to increasing attendance at both intervention and control clinics. Throughout Zimbabwe, antiretroviral therapy coverage improved and HIV-stigma declined. Zimbabwe's changing HIV policy context appeared to contribute to positive improvements across the HIV care continuum for all FSW over the course of the trial. More intense community-based interventions for FSW may be needed to make further gains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Busza
- Centre for Evaluation, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Tarisai Chiyaka
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 9 Monmouth Road, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sithembile Musemburi
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 9 Monmouth Road, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Elizabeth Fearon
- Centre for Evaluation, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Calum Davey
- Centre for Evaluation, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Sungai Chabata
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 9 Monmouth Road, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Phillis Mushati
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 9 Monmouth Road, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jeffrey Dirawo
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 9 Monmouth Road, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sue Napierala
- RTI International, 351 California Street, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrew N Phillips
- Institute for Global Health, UCL, Royal Free Hospital, Rowland Hill Street, London, UK and
| | - Frances M Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, 9 Monmouth Road, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Pl, Liverpool, UK
| | - James R Hargreaves
- Centre for Evaluation, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
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Leddy AM, Mantsios A, Davis W, Muraleetharan O, Shembilu C, Mwampashi A, Beckham S, Galai N, Likindikoki S, Mbwambo J, Kerrigan D. Essential elements of a community empowerment approach to HIV prevention among female sex workers engaged in project Shikamana in Iringa, Tanzania. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2020; 22:111-126. [PMID: 31496423 PMCID: PMC7061086 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2019.1659999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Globally, female sex workers bear a disproportionate burden of HIV, with those in sub-Saharan Africa being among the most affected. Community empowerment approaches have proven successful at preventing HIV among this population. These approaches facilitate a process whereby sex workers take collective ownership over programmes to address the barriers they face in accessing their health and human rights. Limited applications of such approaches have been documented in Africa. We describe the community empowerment process among female sex workers in Iringa, Tanzania, in the context of a randomised controlled trial of a community empowerment-based model of combination HIV prevention. We conducted 24 in-depth interviews with participants from the intervention community and 12 key informant interviews with HIV care providers, police, venue managers, community advisory board members and research staff. Content analysis was employed, and salient themes were extracted. Findings reveal that the community empowerment process was facilitated by the meaningful engagement of sex workers in programme development, encouraging sex worker ownership over the programme, providing opportunities for solidarity and capacity building, and forming partnerships with key stakeholders. Through this process, sex workers mobilised their collective agency to access their health and human rights including HIV prevention, care and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M. Leddy
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrea Mantsios
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Wendy Davis
- Department of Sociology, American University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ohvia Muraleetharan
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Catherine Shembilu
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ard Mwampashi
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - S.W. Beckham
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jessie Mbwambo
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Sociology, American University, Washington, DC, USA
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16
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Kiene SM, Ediau M, Schmarje KA, Kintu M, Tumwesigye NM. Exploring the Potential of Savings-Led Economic Strengthening HIV Interventions Among High-Risk Economically Vulnerable Fishing Communities in Uganda: Associations Between Use of Commitment Savings, Sexual Risk Behavior, and Problematic Alcohol Use. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2347-2360. [PMID: 30924063 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02475-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Fishing communities are a most-at-risk population for HIV in Uganda. Alcohol use and abuse and economic vulnerability fuel risky sexual practices and lead to increased risk of HIV infection in these communities. Economic strengthening is an emerging intervention approach and interventions promoting saving money via mechanisms with a "soft commitment" in the form of restricting or charging small fees for withdrawals, may serve to reduce spending on alcohol and spending that leads to HIV risk behaviors in cash-based economies. However, little research has been conducted to explore the potential for commitment savings-led economic strengthening interventions to address alcohol use and sexual risk behavior among fisherfolk. This cross-sectional study explored the associations between commitment savings, HIV sexual risk behavior, and problematic alcohol among fisherfolk. We also determined whether commitment savings moderated the associations between problematic alcohol use and risky sexual behaviors. 300 (132 male, 168 female) residents of fishing communities on Lake Victoria, Uganda completed a structured interviewer-assisted interview. Over half (55.3%) used commitment savings by saving money in a bank or savings cooperative or via mobile money. Having problematic alcohol use increased the rate of risky unprotected sex with: all partners (adjIRR 6.08, 95% CI 4.30-8.60) and with casual partners and CSWs/clients (adjIRR 4.90, 95% CI 3.09-7.78), and increased the odds of having met a sex partner at an alcohol venue (adjOR 2.84, 95% CI 1.46-5.51) compared to those without problematic alcohol use. Commitment savings was associated with lower odds of: problematic alcohol use (adjOR 0.50, 95% CI 0.26-0.96), meeting a sex partner at an alcohol venue (adjOR 0.43, 95% CI 0.24-0.78), as well as lower rates of risky unprotected sex with all partners (adjIRR 0.68, 95% CI 0.48-0.96), and with causal partners, CSWs/clients (adjIRR 0.38, 95% CI 0.17-0.85). Use of commitment savings moderated the associations between problematic alcohol use and unprotected sex. However, the moderating effects of commitment savings varied by gender. These findings suggest that promoting saving money in savings mechanisms which involve a commitment may be a potentially viable avenue for HIV prevention among fishing communities and may be particularly helpful for those who have problematic alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Kiene
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive (MC-4162), San Diego, CA, 92182, USA.
- Alcohol Research Center on HIV, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Michael Ediau
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive (MC-4162), San Diego, CA, 92182, USA
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Katherine A Schmarje
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive (MC-4162), San Diego, CA, 92182, USA
| | - Michael Kintu
- Wakiso Integrated Rural Development Association, Entebbe, Uganda
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Mantsios A, Shembilu C, Mbwambo J, Likindikoki S, Sherman S, Kennedy C, Kerrigan D. 'That's how we help each other': Community savings groups, economic empowerment and HIV risk among female sex workers in Iringa, Tanzania. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0199583. [PMID: 29975737 PMCID: PMC6033416 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0199583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSW) are a socially and economically marginalized population heavily affected by HIV. Community empowerment approaches focus on FSW taking collective action to address structural barriers to their health and have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing HIV risk. This study examines the potential for community savings groups (locally called michezo) among FSW in Iringa, Tanzania to reduce HIV risk and promote economic and community empowerment. We conducted 27 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with 15 FSW over time and 4 focus group discussions (FGDs) with 35 FSW participating in michezo, and 10 key informant interviews (KIIs) with group collectors. Content analysis was used to identify salient themes around participants' sex work and financial realities; the role of savings groups in their lives and work; and experiences with social cohesion associated with group participation. Michezo were described as providing a safety net for times of financial need, allowing FSW to create greater financial security for themselves and their families. Participation in the groups was also reported to facilitate both individual agency, resulting in members' ability to negotiate condom use and be selective about clients, and a sense of collective identity and solidarity. Participants described group challenges including high mobility and low income of FSW making it difficult for women to fulfill their financial obligations to the group. As a result, participants reported preferences for joining michezo whose members were perceived as more stable (e.g. older, married, from more established venues). Group collectors and members were eager to have michezo formally registered and become recognized by the broader community. Findings indicate that savings groups promote individual agency to reduce sexual risk behaviors and foster community empowerment among FSW. The groups hold potential as an empowerment strategy to enable sex workers to address structural sources of HIV vulnerability and help them achieve socioeconomic inclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mantsios
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Catherine Shembilu
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jessie Mbwambo
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Susan Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Caitlin Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Sociology, American University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
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