1
|
Sokale I, Wilkerson J, Wermuth P, Atem F, Burnett J, Wejnert C, Khuwaja S, Troisi C. Past-Year HIV Testing, Current Antiretroviral Therapy Use, and Participation in Services for People Who Inject Drugs. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:2793-2803. [PMID: 38822083 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04369-0] [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] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Evaluating routine HIV testing and treatment and use of services for people who inject drugs (PWID) is critical to curb the ongoing HIV epidemic. We analyzed data from the 2018 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance of PWID aged 18 years or older, recruited using respondent-driven sampling and offered anonymous HIV testing after survey. We performed bivariate and multivariable analyses with log-linked Poisson regression of the generalized linear models to examine the associations between demographics and PWID service use, past-year HIV testing, and current antiretroviral therapy (ART) use. Among 10,311 HIV-negative PWID, 56% reported past-year HIV testing, and of the 553 HIV-positive PWID, 69% reported current ART use. Of the HIV-negative PWID, 64% (2874/4482) in drug treatment and 62% (3386/5440) who used syringe service programs (SSPs) reported past-year HIV testing. Among HIV-positive PWID, 75% (187/248) in drug treatment and 67% (200/298) SSP participants were on ART. In the adjusted multivariable model, past-year HIV testing was associated with drug use treatment (aPR 1.26, 95% CI 1.23-1.31) and SSP participation (aPR 1.19, 95% CI 1.13-1.26) among HIV-negative PWID. Current ART use was associated with drug use treatment (aPR 1.13, 95% CI 1.00-1.28) but the link was not significant probably due to small sample size. Findings support the expansion and improvement of PWID-targeted services, into comprehensive programs, including drug use treatment, SSP, and HIV testing and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Itunu Sokale
- Department of Management, Policy, and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Room RAS E927, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Johnny Wilkerson
- Department of Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Paige Wermuth
- Department of Management, Policy, and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Room RAS E927, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Folefac Atem
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Janet Burnett
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and Tuberculosis Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cyprian Wejnert
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and Tuberculosis Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Salma Khuwaja
- Disease Prevention and Control Division, Houston Health Department, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Catherine Troisi
- Department of Management, Policy, and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Room RAS E927, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics & Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Atkins K, Wiginton JM, Carpino T, Sanchez TH, Murray SM, Baral SD. Transactional Sex, HIV, and Bacterial STIs Among U.S. Men Who have Sex with Men. Am J Prev Med 2024:S0749-3797(24)00231-9. [PMID: 39002886 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2024.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Men who have sex with men (MSM) and are engaged in transactional sex (MSM-TS) experience complex social and structural vulnerabilities that increase their HIV risk. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of TS and associations between TS and sexually transmitted infection (STI) outcomes among cisgender MSM in the U.S. METHODS Using 2017-2021 data from an online survey of U.S. MSM, characteristics of MSM-TS were summarized, and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) calculated for the associations between past-year TS and bacterial STI diagnosis, HIV status, and either antiretroviral or pre-exposure prophylaxis use. Analyses were conducted in 2023. RESULTS TS prevalence was 3.7% (n=1,848/49,539). Compared to other MSM, MSM-TS more commonly reported homelessness, being uninsured, condomless anal sex with partners of any HIV status and condomless anal sex with serodifferent partners, and illicit drug use. TS was associated with increased HIV (aPR 1.44, 95% CI 1.25-1.66) and bacterial STI prevalence (aPR 2.40, 95% CI=2.09-2.52) and lower antiretroviral therapy use (among MSM living with HIV; PR 0.92, 95% CI=0.87-0.97). CONCLUSIONS Structural and behavioral risks converged among U.S. MSM engaging in TS leading to greater HIV and bacterial STI prevalence in this group. HIV interventions for U.S. MSM-TS should address individual as well as structural risks, including poverty and housing instability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn Atkins
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - John M Wiginton
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California; San Diego State University, San Diego, California
| | - Thomas Carpino
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sarah M Murray
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dove-Medows E, Knox J, Valentine-Graves M, Sullivan P. I Can't Afford it Right Now, So it Doesn't Matter" Structural Drivers of Viral Suppression Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Longitudinal Qualitative Approach. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4001004. [PMID: 38585772 PMCID: PMC10996790 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4001004/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Racial disparities in outcomes across the HIV care continuum, including in viral suppression, have been observed among sexual minority men (SMM) living with HIV. Structural factors are drivers of these disparities, yet data is lacking at the individual level on how day-to-day experiences of these structural factors contribute to losing viral suppression, and what happens to SMM after loss of viral suppression, including whether they achieve viral suppression again over time. Method We conducted longitudinal semi-structured interviews with a subsample of men living with HIV drawn from a larger cohort study. Three Black and 2 White SMM participated in a series of three interviews after they lost viral suppression, and then again at 6- and 12-months follow-up. The focus of the interviews was on experiences with structural issues (e.g., housing, transportation, employment, insurance) and their impact on HIV care. Results Content analysis showed that multiple structural issues disrupted HIV care, particularly insurance, housing stability, transportation, and employment. Black SMM described experiencing multiple compounding structural barriers, and they struggled to achieve viral suppression again. Conclusions These data show how SMM living with HIV are impacted by structural barriers to HIV care over time. Black SMM experienced multiple, compounding barriers, and these negatively impacted HIV care outcomes over time. Efforts to address long-standing HIV care-related disparities need to address the mechanisms of structural racism.
Collapse
|
4
|
Toledo LDSG, Palmieri P, Ribeiro GDR, Silva AD, Bastos FI. Barriers and facilitators for HIV rapid testing among transgender women and gay and other men who have sex with men in Brazil: A scoping review. Glob Public Health 2024; 19:2360982. [PMID: 38937916 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2024.2360982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Transgender women (TGW) and men who have sex with other men (MSM) often encounter disparities in accessing HIV testing, leading to delayed diagnoses and worse prognoses. We analysed barriers and facilitators for accessing HIV rapid testing by TGW and MSM in Brazil, 2004-2023. Citations were included whether the study population consisted of individuals aged ≥18y old, and studies addressed HIV testing and have been conducted in Brazil. The study protocol was based on Joanna Briggs' recommendations for scoping reviews. We included 11 studies on TGW and 17 on MSM. The belief that one is not at risk of contracting HIV infection, fear expressed in different ways (e.g. lack of confidentiality) and younger age were the main barriers. Feeling at risk for HIV infection, curiosity, and favourable characteristics of the setting where the testing takes place were cited as the main facilitators. Barriers and facilitators specifically for HIV self-testing included, respectively, concerns about conducting the test alone vs. autonomy/flexibility. Brazil is unlikely to achieve the UN' 95-95-95 goal without minimising testing disparities. Combating prejudice against TGW and MSM in testing settings, along with educational campaigns and transparent protocols to ensure confidentiality, can help increase HIV testing among these populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paloma Palmieri
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gizele da Rocha Ribeiro
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Adriano da Silva
- National School of Public Health Sergio Arouca, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Francisco Inácio Bastos
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mathai R, Hinestrosa F, DeJesus E, Rolle CP. Racial/ethnic disparities in HIV care outcomes among insured patients at a large urban sexual health clinic. J Investig Med 2023; 71:946-952. [PMID: 37365802 DOI: 10.1177/10815589231182313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Prior studies demonstrate that non-White patients are less likely to achieve human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) suppression compared to White patients due to lack of health insurance. This study aims to determine whether racial disparities in the HIV care cascade persist among a cohort of privately and publicly insured patients. This retrospective analysis evaluated HIV care outcomes during the first year of care. Eligible patients were aged 18-65 years, treatment-naïve, and seen between 2016 and 2019. Demographic and clinical variables were extracted from the medical record. Differences in the proportion of patients achieving each HIV care cascade stage by race were evaluated using unadjusted chi-square testing. Risk factors for viral non-suppression at 52 weeks were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. We included 285 patients; ninety-nine were White, 101 were Black, and 85 identified as Hispanic/LatinX ethnicity. Significant differences in retention in care for Hispanic/LatinX patients (odds ratio (OR): 0.214, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.067-0.676) and viral suppression for both Black (OR: 0.348, 95% CI: 0.178, 0.682) and Hispanic/LatinX patients (OR: 0.392, 95% CI: 0.195, 0.791) compared to White patients were observed. In multivariate analyses, Black patients were less likely to achieve viral suppression compared to White patients (OR: 0.464, 95% CI: 0.236, 0.902). This study showed that non-White patients were less likely to achieve viral suppression after 1 year despite insurance and suggests that other unmeasured factors may disproportionately affect viral suppression in these patients. Interventions to identify and address these factors are needed to improve HIV care outcomes for non-White populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reanne Mathai
- University of Central Florida, College of Medicine, Orlando, USA
| | | | - Edwin DeJesus
- University of Central Florida, College of Medicine, Orlando, USA
- Orlando Immunology Center, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Charlotte-Paige Rolle
- Orlando Immunology Center, Orlando, FL, USA
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Koester KA, Colasanti JA, McNulty MC, Dance K, Erguera XA, Tsuzuki MD, Johnson MO, Sauceda JA, Montgomery E, Schneider J, Christopoulos KA. Assessing readiness to implement long-acting injectable HIV antiretroviral therapy: provider and staff perspectives. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:128. [PMID: 37858272 PMCID: PMC10588099 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00506-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapy (LAI-ART) represents the next innovation in HIV therapy. Pre-implementation research is needed to develop effective strategies to ensure equitable access to LAI-ART to individuals living with HIV. METHODS We conducted focus group discussions (FGDs) with providers and staff affiliated with HIV clinics in San Francisco, Chicago, and Atlanta to understand barriers to and facilitators of LAI-ART implementation. Participants also completed a short survey about implementation intentions. FGDs were held via video conference, recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed using domains associated with the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). RESULTS Between September 2020 and April 2021, we led 10 FDGs with 49 participants, of whom ~60% were prescribing providers. Organizational readiness for implementing change was high, with 85% agreeing to being committed to figuring out how to implement LAI-ART. While responses were influenced by the unique inner and outer resources available in each setting, several common themes, including implementation mechanisms, dominated: (1) optimism and enthusiasm about LAI-ART was contingent on ensuring equitable access to LAI-ART; (2) LAI-ART shifts the primary responsibility of ART adherence from the patient to the clinic; and (3) existing clinic systems require strengthening to meet the needs of patients with adherence challenges. Current systems in all sites could support the use of LAI-ART in a limited number of stable patients. Scale-up and equitable use would be challenging or impossible without additional personnel. Participants outlined programmatic elements necessary to realize equitable access including centralized tracking of patients, capacity for in-depth, hands-on outreach, and mobile delivery of LAI-ART. Sites further specified unknown logistical impacts on implementation related to billing/payer source as well as shipping and drug storage. CONCLUSIONS Among these HIV care sites, clinic readiness to offer LAI-ART to a subset of patients is high. The main challenges to implementation include concerns about unequal access and a recognition that strengthening the clinic system is critical.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A Koester
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA.
| | - Jonathan A Colasanti
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Moira C McNulty
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kaylin Dance
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Xavier A Erguera
- Division of HIV, ID and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Manami Diaz Tsuzuki
- Division of HIV, ID and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mallory O Johnson
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
| | - John A Sauceda
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
| | - Elizabeth Montgomery
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John Schneider
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Katerina A Christopoulos
- Division of HIV, ID and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Barak N, Boyle C. Lessons from +LOVE, Improving HIV Care for Black Men Who Have Sex with Men in New Orleans Using an Integrated Behavioral Health Crisis Support Model of Care. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:S65-S73. [PMID: 36178382 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0114] [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: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) experience higher rates of HIV infection than other groups. They also face disparities in linkage and retention to HIV care, as well as in viral suppression. To address the needs of the BMSM population living with HIV, we developed a novel intervention program (+LOVE), which integrated case management with behavioral health/crisis support. The intervention consisted of (1) a dedicated therapist; (2) an SMS (text message)-based engagement program, CareSignal that provided medication reminders and administered routine ecological momentary assessments (EMAs); (3) a triage crisis coordinator to respond to alerts generated by the EMA responses; and (4) a case manager. This study assessed the additional impact of the first three components of the intervention (a dedicated therapist, text messaging application, along with a triage crisis coordinator), compared with the fourth component alone, the current standard of care (a case manager) on access to HIV care, antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, and viral suppression. Analyzing electronic medical record data, survey data, and EMA response data extracted from CareSignal, we found that those who engaged in the behavioral health therapy had higher odds of remaining in HIV care than those who only engaged with the case manager. We also found that increased engagement with CareSignal led to an increased probability of achieving positive HIV-related health outcomes. Our results suggest that an integrated behavioral health/crisis support model of intervention integrated with case managementincreased positive outcomes over case management alone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narquis Barak
- Department of Prevention, CrescentCare, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Caitlin Boyle
- Department of Prevention, CrescentCare, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kisler KA, Fletcher JB, Reback CJ. Peer Case Management Promoting Advancement Along the HIV Care Continuum Among Black Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV: Building Brothers Up. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:S46-S53. [PMID: 36178380 PMCID: PMC9529306 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) in the United States are at elevated risk for HIV relative to their heterosexual and/or non-BMSM counterparts, yet on average demonstrate suboptimal HIV care linkage and rates of HIV primary care retention. From October 2019 to December 2020, 69 adult (i.e., aged 18-65) BMSM enrolled in Building Brothers Up (2BU), a 6-session peer case management intervention delivered across 3 months and designed to improve retention in HIV primary care through to full viral suppression. Peer case management sessions included detailed assessment of participants' needs and barriers to treatment, which led to the development of a participant-centered treatment plan. All participants self-identified as Black, about three-quarters self-identified as gay (72.5%), and 46.4% reported an annual income of $5000 or less. A total of 69 participants enrolled in 2BU; however, multiply imputed chained equation logistic regressions were carried out on the final analytical data set (n = 40; 99 imputations) due to a large amount of COVID-19-related missing data. Although analyses of retention and achievement of viral suppression did not reach full significance, the probability of a Type-II hypothesis testing error was high, and viral load results (adjusted odds ratio = 1.56; 95% confidence interval = 0.94-2.60; p = 0.08) suggested that increased attendance to peer case management sessions may be associated with improved odds of achieving full viral suppression among BMSM. The significant impact of national race-related civil unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic on the target population during implementation of 2BU is underscored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A. Kisler
- Friends Research Institute, Inc., Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Public Health, Rongxiang Xu College of Health & Human Services, California State University, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Address correspondence to: Kimberly A. Kisler, PhD, MPH, Department of Public Health, Rongxiang Xu College of Health & Human Services, California State University, Los Angeles, 5151 State University Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA
| | | | - Cathy J. Reback
- Friends Research Institute, Inc., Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Socio-Ecological Influences on HIV Care Engagement: Perspectives of Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV in the Southern US. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2022:10.1007/s40615-022-01364-w. [PMID: 35976604 PMCID: PMC9383690 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01364-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Young Black men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV evidence the lowest rates of linkage to care and viral suppression of all US MSM. Kentucky, identified by the US Department of Health and Human Services as a "hot spot" state with elevated HIV incidence compared to the rest of the country, exhibits similar racialized outcomes. Structural, interpersonal, and individual drivers of engagement along the HIV care continuum among people living with HIV have been identified, primarily through quantitative designs. However, the mechanisms by which these factors shape HIV care engagement, and the ways they may combine or reinforce each other, as well as from the lived experience of young Black MSM living with HIV, have been studied to a lesser extent. In this study, a purposive sample of n = 29 HIV-positive young Black MSM (age M = 25 years old; 38% retained in care) residing in Kentucky participated in in-depth interviews. Factors that were most influential on engagement varied along the continuum, with health insurance status and knowledge of HIV being relatively more influential to diagnosis, and housing stability, psychological processes, and interpersonal relationships being more influential on retention. For some participants, barriers to care at multiple levels had a mutually influencing and intensifying impact on care engagement. Additional efforts to center the voices of young Black MSM living with HIV will help illuminate acceptable and sustainable interventions for increasing their care engagement and narrowing persistent racial disparities in HIV morbidity and mortality.
Collapse
|
10
|
Liu Y, Hawkins M, Osman A, Zhang C. Assessing the Prevalence and Determinants of Exposure-Influenced HIV Testing among a Sample of Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis-Naïve Young Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7080146. [PMID: 35893655 PMCID: PMC9331231 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7080146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-initiated Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing after potential sexual exposure to HIV (i.e., exposure-influenced HIV testing) has high utility in detecting individuals with the highest probabilities of HIV seroconversion. We conducted a cross-sectional study among a sample of sexually active, pre/post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP)-naïve young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in two US cities to assess the determinants (e.g., demographic, psychosocial, sexual, substance use, and HIV prevention characteristics) of exposure-influenced HIV testing (never/rarely vs. mostly/always) in their lifetime. Of 261 YMSM, only 26.5% reported mostly/always seeking exposure-influenced prior to the study. Multivariable analyses showed that younger age, sexual orientation non-disclosure, perceived HIV stigma, internalized homophobia, lower general resilience, and lower social support were associated with a lower likelihood of mostly/always seeking exposure-influenced HIV testing. YMSM who never/rarely sought exposure-influenced HIV testing were more likely to use recreational drugs before sex, binge alcohol, and have group sex; while less likely to be aware of PrEP, test for sexually transmitted infections, or use condoms compared to those mostly/always seeking exposure-influenced HIV testing. Exposure-influenced HIV testing is suboptimal among YMSM with elevated risk for HIV. Our findings provide important implications for designing targeted interventions to promote exposure-influenced HIV testing among high-risk YMSM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, 256 Crittenden Blvd., Ste. 3305, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-585-276-3562
| | - Mary Hawkins
- Nashville Council on AIDS, Resources, Education and Support (CARES), Nashville, TN 37204, USA; (M.H.); (A.O.)
| | - Amna Osman
- Nashville Council on AIDS, Resources, Education and Support (CARES), Nashville, TN 37204, USA; (M.H.); (A.O.)
| | - Chen Zhang
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sleep Disturbance is Associated with Missing PrEP Doses Among Young Black Sexual Minority Men in The N2 study. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3827-3833. [PMID: 35661017 PMCID: PMC10109514 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03711-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PrEP uptake and adherence among young Black sexual minority men (YBSMM), has been sub-optimal. Multiple studies identified sleep as an important determinant of medication adherence, although it has not been examined with regard to PrEP among YBSMM. This study utilized data collected from HIV-negative cisgender YBSMM in the Neighborhoods and Networks (N2) study in Chicago using PrEP (N = 70). Sleep quality was measured using the PHQ-9 and PrEP adherence questions were adapted from Reynolds et al., 2004. Bivariate and multivariable regression analyses were used to estimate associations between sleep and missing PrEP doses, controlling for relevant demographic and behavioral factors. YBSMM who reported sleep disturbance a moderate amount of time (aOR 7.59 [1.05 to 54.57]) were more likely to miss taking PrEP because they had too many pills to take. Sleep quality is an overlooked determinant of medication adherence, and may negatively impact YBSMM's ability to consistently take PrEP.
Collapse
|
12
|
Papageorgiou V, Davies B, Cooper E, Singer A, Ward H. Influence of Material Deprivation on Clinical Outcomes Among People Living with HIV in High-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2026-2054. [PMID: 34894331 PMCID: PMC9046343 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03551-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Despite developments in HIV treatment and care, disparities persist with some not fully benefiting from improvements in the HIV care continuum. We conducted a systematic review to explore associations between social determinants and HIV treatment outcomes (viral suppression and treatment adherence) in high-income countries. A random effects meta-analysis was performed where there were consistent measurements of exposures. We identified 83 observational studies eligible for inclusion. Social determinants linked to material deprivation were identified as education, employment, food security, housing, income, poverty/deprivation, socioeconomic status/position, and social class; however, their measurement and definition varied across studies. Our review suggests a social gradient of health persists in the HIV care continuum; people living with HIV who reported material deprivation were less likely to be virologically suppressed or adherent to antiretrovirals. Future research should use an ecosocial approach to explore these interactions across the lifecourse to help propose a causal pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Papageorgiou
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Bethan Davies
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Emily Cooper
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ariana Singer
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Helen Ward
- Patient Experience Research Centre, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dangerfield DT, Ober AJ, Li MJ, Allen S, Bluthenthal RN. HIV Treatment Adherence Strategies Among Virally Suppressed Black Sexual Minority Men in Baltimore, Maryland, and Los Angeles, California: A Theory-Based Qualitative Study. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2022; 33:54-62. [PMID: 34939988 PMCID: PMC8718261 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The goals and strategies of Black sexual minority men living with HIV (BSMMLWH) who achieve viral suppression require further investigation. This study explored treatment adherence strategies among BSMMLWH with sustained viral suppression. We conducted 27 in-depth qualitative interviews with BSMMLWH in Baltimore, Maryland, and Los Angeles, California, between December 2018 and May 2019. Interviews included questions guided by Positive Deviance and Life Course theoretical frameworks regarding multilevel factors and explicit strategies for antiretroviral therapy adherence. Themes regarding intentional, age group-specific strategies such as using technology (among younger men) and taking HIV medications with other daily pills (among older men) were identified. Participants also reported symbiotic goals and values that encouraged adherence, such as having a desire to live, strong familial relationships with clinicians, and support networks. Identifying personal goals and having supportive clinical and social relationships could be key to improving treatment adherence and viral suppression among BSMMLWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michael J. Li
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sophia Allen
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ricky N. Bluthenthal
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Holloway IW, Beltran R, Shah SV, Cordero L, Garth G, Smith T, Wilson BDM, Ochoa AM. Structural Syndemics and Antiretroviral Medication Adherence Among Black Sexual Minority Men Living With HIV. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 88:S12-S19. [PMID: 34757988 PMCID: PMC8579986 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although HIV antiretroviral treatment (ART) access and uptake have increased among racial/ethnic minority individuals, lower rates of ART adherence and viral suppression persist, especially among Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) compared with their White counterparts. SETTING Black men who have sex with men living with HIV (BMSM+) residing in Los Angeles County (N = 124) were recruited in-person (eg, clinic) and online (eg, social networking apps). METHODS Participants completed a cross-sectional survey measuring demographic characteristics, structural syndemics (poverty, criminal justice involvement, and housing instability), and psychosocial syndemics (mental health and substance use). A text message survey assessed missed doses of ART over the past week. Zero-inflated Poisson regression models were used to evaluate variables associated with the number of missed doses of ART. RESULTS On average, participants missed 1.30 doses of ART (SD = 2.09) and reported structural syndemics: poverty (56.1%), criminal justice involvement (36.6%), housing instability (26.3%), and psychosocial syndemics: childhood sexual abuse (51.8%), intimate partner violence (16.9%), depression (39%), and problem alcohol use (15.5%). After controlling for employment, age, education, and psychosocial syndemics, participants with a one-point increase in structural syndemic indicators were found to be 1.63 times more likely to have missed a dose of ART. CONCLUSIONS Structural syndemic were associated with ART nonadherence among BMSM+ after adjusting for demographic and psychosocial factors. HIV treatment interventions that incorporate financial incentives, legal support, and housing may help improve ART adherence among BMSM+. Findings suggest that key priorities to ending the HIV epidemic must include structural interventions that alleviate poverty, eliminate disproportionate policing and criminalization, and end homelessness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian W. Holloway
- Department of Social Welfare, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Raiza Beltran
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Saanchi V. Shah
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Luisita Cordero
- Department of Social Welfare, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Gerald Garth
- Arming Minorities Against Addiction and Disease (AMAAD) Institute, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Bianca D. M. Wilson
- The Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Ayako M. Ochoa
- Department of Social Welfare, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kim HC, Pollack LM, Saberi P, Neilands TB, Arnold EA, Bright DJ, Williams RW, Kegeles SM, Tan JY. Study protocol: a pilot randomised waitlist-controlled trial of a dyadic mobile health intervention for black sexual-minority male couples with HIV in the USA. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e055448. [PMID: 34475191 PMCID: PMC8413948 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV care engagement is lower among black sexual-minority men relative to other racial/ethnic groups of sexual-minority men. Being in a primary relationship is generally associated with more successful HIV care engagement across various populations. However, among black sexual-minority men, the association between primary relationship status and HIV-related outcomes is inconsistent across the HIV care continuum. Given the ubiquity of mobile technology access and use among racial/ethnic minority communities, leveraging mobile technology for HIV care engagement appears a promising intervention strategy. This paper outlines the protocol of the LetSync study, a pilot randomised controlled trial of a mobile health app intervention developed using the Framework of Dyadic HIV Care Engagement to improve care-engagement outcomes among black sexual-minority male couples living with HIV. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Eighty black sexual-minority men in couples (n=160) will be enrolled to pilot test the LetSync app. At least one member of each dyad must be both HIV-positive and self-identify as black/African-American. Couples will be randomised to either a waitlist-control arm or an intervention that uses relationship-based approach to improve HIV care engagement. We will assess feasibility and acceptability of trial procedures and intervention protocols based on predefined metrics of feasibility and acceptability. Execution of the study will yield the opportunity to conduct analyses to test the measurement and analysis protocol on antiretroviral therapy adherence by comparing the intervention and waitlist-control arms on self-reported and biological (hair sample) measures of adherence. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Study staff will obtain electronic consent from all participants. This study has been approved by the University of California (UCSF) Institutional Review Board. Study staff will work with the Community Advisory Board at the UCSF Center for AIDS Prevention Studies Board to disseminate results to participants and the community via open discussions, presentations, journal publications and/or social media. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04951544.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyunjin Cindy Kim
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Lance M Pollack
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Parya Saberi
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Emily A Arnold
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Darius Jovon Bright
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Robert W Williams
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Susan M Kegeles
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Judy Y Tan
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Vincent W, Lin J, Veloso D, Miller D, McFarland W. Homelessness, HIV testing, and the reach of public health efforts for people who inject drugs, San Francisco, California. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 221:108560. [PMID: 33607498 PMCID: PMC8494070 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a dearth of literature that explicitly examines associations between housing and HIV testing among people who inject drugs (PWID). Thus, the present study investigated the links between housing status and HIV testing for PWID. METHODS Respondent-driven sampling recruited 382 HIV-negative PWID, who completed structured interviews in San Francisco. Logistic regression determined whether housing statuses in the past 12 months ([1] owned/rented, [2] single-room occupancy hotels [SROs], [3] living with friends/family/partners, [4] shelters, [5] outdoors) were associated with getting HIV tested in the past 12 months while adjusting for sociodemographics and receptive sharing of injection paraphernalia in the past 12 months. RESULTS PWID who lived in SROs had greater odds of being tested for HIV than PWID who did not live in SROs (aOR = 1.95, CI.95: 1.06-3.60) while adjusting for covariates. Although bivariable analyses indicated that receptively sharing syringes was more common for PWID who lived with others (χ2[3] = 7.94, p = 0.047) or lived outdoors (χ2[3] = 9.50, p = 0.023) than those who did not, respectively, PWID who lived with others (aOR = 1.72, CI.95 = 0.95-3.14) or lived outdoors (aOR = 1.37, CI.95 = 0.74-2.53) did not show greater odds of HIV testing in multivariable analyses. CONCLUSIONS PWID who lived in SROs had greater odds of HIV testing than PWID who did not live in SROs. Although PWID who lived with others or outdoors showed greater HIV risk, they did not show greater odds of HIV testing. Public health efforts may be reaching PWID in SROs, but more work is needed to reach PWID who live with other people or outdoors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilson Vincent
- Department of Psychology, Weiss Hall, 1701 N. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, United States.
| | - Jess Lin
- Department of Psychology, Weiss Hall, 1701 N. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, United States
| | - Danielle Veloso
- Department of Psychology, Weiss Hall, 1701 N. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, United States
| | - Desmond Miller
- Department of Psychology, Weiss Hall, 1701 N. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, United States
| | - Willi McFarland
- Department of Psychology, Weiss Hall, 1701 N. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Yan X, Su H, Zhang B, Li Y, Zhang L, Jia Z. Adherence of HIV Self-Testing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China: Longitudinal Study. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e19627. [PMID: 32940619 PMCID: PMC7530689 DOI: 10.2196/19627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization recommended HIV self-testing (HIVST) for individuals practicing unsafe sexual behaviors; however, the adherence to HIV testing has not been reported. OBJECTIVE In this study, we attempted to determine the adherence to HIVST among men who have sex with men (MSM), as well as the impact factors and potential effects of their adherence. METHODS We conducted a longitudinal study among MSM in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, China from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018. A mobile app system was used to provide the "Mailing rapid test reagent kit" for the HIVST service. The proportion of those who adhered to HIV testing every 3 months was calculated. Logistic regression was used to explore the impact factors related to adherence to HIVST. Rates of HIV infection between MSM who adhered to HIVST and those who did not were compared using Cox proportional hazards regression. Changes of condom use behaviors between the two groups were also compared using the chi-square test. RESULTS A total of 1315 MSM who received the HIVST service through the app were included in the study. Overall, 10% of the MSM adhered to HIVST, and the proportion of adhering tests was only 34.9%. Adherence of HIVST was associated with marital status (adjusted odds ratio [OR]unmarried vs married 2.31, 95% CI 1.13-4.71) and the number of HIV tests they received (adjusted OR3 times vs 2 times or below 3.36, 95% CI 2.01-5.63; adjusted OR4 times or above vs 2 times or below 7.30, 95% CI 4.67-11.42). Twenty HIV seroconversions were observed during 1-year follow up. The rate of HIV infection in the adherence group (17.10 per 100 person years, 95% CI 8.80-30.84) was significantly higher than that in the nonadherence group (4.80 per 100 person years, 95% CI 2.77-7.88; adjusted hazard ratio 3.33, 95% CI 1.35-8.20). Those who adhered to HIV testing were more likely to improve condom use behaviors, although the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Regular HIV testing is necessary for early detection of HIV infection among MSM. Given the poor adherence, a new internet-based management paradigm for MSM is needed to raise their health awareness to optimize the implementation of HIVST.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Yan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.,National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hexuan Su
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Medical Informatics Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.,National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongjie Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.,National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lingling Zhang
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Zhongwei Jia
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.,National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Center for Drug Abuse Control and Prevention, National Institute of Health Data Science, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Center for Intelligent Public Health, Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|