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Gómez-Castro J, Aguilera-Mijares S, Martínez-Dávalos A, Bautista-Arredondo S, Vermandere H. Interest in event-driven PrEP among men who have sex with men using daily PrEP in Mexico in 2019-2020: a cross-sectional assessment in a large-scale demonstration project. AIDS Care 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39116427 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2389082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the interest in event-driven PrEP (ED-PrEP) among men who have sex with men (MSM) using daily PrEP in Mexico's PrEP demonstration project between 2019 and 2020. We compared participants interested or not in ED-PrEP during their first-month visit and identified associated factors. Of 1,021 MSM attending their first-month visit, 7% had previous knowledge of ED-PrEP, but 40% were interested in ED-PrEP. However, over 50% perceived the scheme as less protective than daily PrEP. Having doubts about ED-PrEP's level of protection was related to less interest in the scheme (aOR = 0.11; CI = 0.07-0.18), just like reporting perceived barriers such as having frequent sex (aOR = 0.06; CI = 0.03-0.14), unplanned sex (aOR = 0.17; CI = 0.11-0.27), forgetting the medicine (aOR = 0.06; CI = 0.03-0.12), or difficulty carrying the medicine (aOR = 0.13; CI = 0.07-0.25). Finally, reporting not taking PrEP for >20 days in the last month (aOR = 0.05; CI = 0.01-0.27) diminished interest in ED-PrEP. In conclusion, few MSM daily PrEP users knew about ED-PrEP yet many were interested in it, suggesting the importance of awareness campaigns regarding ED-PrEP's effectiveness. The lack of interest in ED-PrEP among participants with poor adherence to daily PrEP indicates that they might prefer long-acting PrEP or HIV prevention strategies without medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Gómez-Castro
- Center for Evaluation Research and Surveys, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, México
| | | | - Araczy Martínez-Dávalos
- Center for Evaluation Research and Surveys, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, México
| | | | - Heleen Vermandere
- Center for Evaluation Research and Surveys, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, México
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McGuire C, Atieno MA, Hoke T, Jeckonia P, K'orimba K, Lorenzetti L, Ngure K, Niyibeshaho MM, Njuguna N, Torjesen K, Fonner V. PrEP Method Switching: Will it Yield Greater Coverage of HIV Protection? Applying Lessons Learned from Family Planning to Guide Future Research in the Context of PrEP Choice. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024:10.1007/s11904-024-00704-1. [PMID: 39046639 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00704-1] [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] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Despite the growing availability of oral PrEP, coverage remains suboptimal. Through the introduction of additional PrEP methods, including vaginal rings and long-acting injectable formulations, health systems globally are on the cusp of offering PrEP methods that vary by route of administration, efficacy, and frequency of use. With PrEP choice, it will be important to explore PrEP use patterns to better understand how the ability to choose and switch products affects coverage and continuation. In this review, we draw parallels with family planning (FP) by summarizing how method choice and product switching affected contraceptive coverage globally, synthesize what is known about PrEP product switching, and outline evidence gaps to help guide future research on PrEP switching in the context of choice. RECENT FINDINGS Decades of research in FP has demonstrated that product switching is common and can lead to more satisfaction and increases in contraceptive use. While research on PrEP product switching is nascent, findings suggest switching is common, and that providing more than one PrEP option can increase coverage. Key evidence gaps include understanding product switching in the context of full versus constrained choice, switching in the context of temporary need, and developing interventions that promote product switching for those who could benefit. Providing choice and allowing people to start, stop, and switch products according to their needs and desires is a core component of a rights-based approach to HIV prevention. More research is needed to better understand what drives use patterns, including switching, and how to leverage choice to improve coverage. Standard definitions -some of which have been proposed in this review-are needed to inform comparable measurement. Finally, there is a need to holistically frame PrEP use to acknowledge changes in need over the life course, thus making method switching a standard part of HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney McGuire
- FHI 360, 359 Blackwell Street, Suite 200, Durham, NC, 27701, USA.
| | | | - Theresa Hoke
- FHI 360, 359 Blackwell Street, Suite 200, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | | | | | - Lara Lorenzetti
- FHI 360, 359 Blackwell Street, Suite 200, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | | | | | - Virginia Fonner
- FHI 360, 359 Blackwell Street, Suite 200, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
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Wu HJ, Applegate TL, Kwon JA, Cunningham EB, Grebely J, Gray RT, Shih ST. The cost-effectiveness of integrating simplified HCV testing into HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and treatment services among men who have sex with men in Taiwan. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2024; 48:101119. [PMID: 38974907 PMCID: PMC11227020 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2024.101119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Simplified hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing integrated into existing HIV services has the potential to improve HCV diagnoses and treatment. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of integrating different simplified HCV testing strategies into existing HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and treatment services among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Taiwan. Methods Mathematical modeling was used to assess the cost-effectiveness of integrating simplified HCV tests (point-of-care antibody, reflex RNA, or immediate point-of-care RNA) with HCV treatment into existing HIV prevention and care for MSM from a healthcare perspective. The impact of increasing PrEP and HIV treatment coverage among MSM in combination with these HCV testing strategies was also considered. We reported lifetime costs (2022 US dollars) and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and calculated incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) with a 3% annual discounting rate. Findings Point-of-care HCV antibody and reflex RNA testing are cost-effective compared to current HCV testing in all PrEP and HIV treatment coverage scenarios (ICERs <$32,811/QALY gained). Immediate point-of-care RNA testing would be only cost-effective compared to the current HCV testing if coverage of HIV services remained unchanged. Point-of-care antibody testing in an unchanged HIV services coverage scenario and all simplified HCV testing strategies in scenarios that increased both HIV PrEP and treatment coverage form an efficient frontier, indicating best value for money strategies. Interpretation Our findings support the integration of simplified HCV testing and people-centered services for MSM and highlight the economic benefits of integrating simplified HCV testing into existing services for MSM alongside HIV PrEP and treatment. Funding This study was made possible as part of a research-funded PhD being undertaken by HJW under the UNSW Sydney Scientia scholarship and was associated with the Rapid Point of Care Research Consortium for infectious disease in the Asia Pacific (RAPID), which is funded by an NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence. JG is supported by a National Health and Medical Research Council Investigator Grant (1176131).
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Affiliation(s)
- Huei-Jiuan Wu
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Tanya L. Applegate
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Jisoo A. Kwon
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Evan B. Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Richard T. Gray
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Sophy T.F. Shih
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Hughes AJ, Nimbal V, Hsu L, Schwarcz S, Scheer S. Trends in Time Spent Viremic Among Persons Newly Diagnosed With HIV in San Francisco. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 94:107-115. [PMID: 37707298 PMCID: PMC10497196 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine trends in time spent viremic and initiation into antiretroviral treatment (ART) among persons newly diagnosed with HIV in San Francisco. METHODS Using HIV surveillance data, we included persons diagnosed with HIV during 2012-2020, a San Francisco resident at HIV diagnosis, alive 12 months after HIV diagnosis, and had ≥2 viral load tests within 12 months after diagnosis. Percent person-time spent (pPT) >200, pPT >1500, and pPT >10,000 copies per milliliter was calculated during the 12 months after HIV diagnosis. Multivariate regression models assessed the year of diagnosis and time spent above each viral threshold and year of diagnosis and ART initiation within 0-7 days (rapid), 8-365 days (delayed), or no ART initiation. RESULTS Of 2471 new HIV diagnoses in San Francisco from 2012 to 2020, 1921 (72%) were included. Newly diagnosed persons spent a mean of 40.4% pPT >200, 32.4% pPT >1,500%, and 23.4% pPT >10,000 copies per milliliter; 33.8% had rapid ART initiation, 57.3% delayed, and 9% had no ART initiation. After adjustment, persons diagnosed in years 2014-2015, 2016-2017, 2018-2019, and 2020 were associated with less time spent above all viral thresholds and lower risk of delayed or no ART initiation compared with those diagnosed in 2012-2013. Greater time above thresholds correlated with injection drug use, ages 25-29 and 30-39 years, and homelessness. CONCLUSIONS Percent time spent above each viremic level decreased significantly, whereas rapid ART initiation increased among newly diagnosed persons from 2014 through 2020 compared with 2012-2013. Population differences in time spent unsuppressed highlight the need for targeted interventions to reduce new HIV infections and improve health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vani Nimbal
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA
| | - Ling Hsu
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sandra Schwarcz
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA
| | - Susan Scheer
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA
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Hsu J, Ku SW, Chen T, Li C, Huang P, Wu H, Bourne A, Strong C. Preferences for long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men in Taiwan: findings from the 2021 HEART Survey. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26163. [PMID: 37675767 PMCID: PMC10483501 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While various antiretrovirals have been studied as potential candidates for long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), the bimonthly injectable cabotegravir-the first long-acting form of PrEP-was approved in 2021. Event-driven (ED) PrEP has been the most prevalent dosing regimen among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in Taiwan, providing a unique setting to observe the preferences for long-acting PrEP in a community where the daily regimen is not the mainstream method. This study aimed to determine the preferences for the different forms and dosing intervals of long-acting PrEP that are currently in the development pipeline. METHODS We conducted a survey in 2021 by convenience sampling the users of social networking applications for GBMSM in Taiwan. Our survey included questions on sexual behaviours, current PrEP regimens and the preferences for potential candidates of long-acting PrEP, such as implants, intramuscular and subcutaneous injections. We compared the Likert-scale preference ratings for potential long-acting options, and conducted logistic regression analysis to examine the factors associated with a preference for bimonthly intramuscular injections (2M IM) over ED and daily PrEP regimens, respectively. RESULTS A total of 1728 responses were eligible for analysis. Three percent of respondents (n = 52) were daily PrEP users; 11.5% (n = 198) were ED PrEP users. When not considering cost, current PrEP users-regardless of their original dosing regimen-were most likely to express preferences for monthly oral PrEP, followed by a 6-month subcutaneous injectable (6M SC) and 2M IM. However, among non-current PrEP users, monthly oral PrEP was the most preferred form, followed by ED, daily oral and 6M SC injectable. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that current daily users, those willing to take PrEP in the next 6 months and those with more sex partners in the last 12 months had a significant correlation with preferences for the 2M IM injectable over the ED PrEP. CONCLUSIONS The monthly oral form was the most preferable long-acting PrEP among GBMSM in Taiwan. Current daily PrEP users preferred the 2M IM injectable over the ED PrEP, which made the 2M IM injectable a potential alternative. Further studies should focus on how the cost and delivery affect PrEP preferences and their actual uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing‐Hao Hsu
- Department of Public HealthCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Stephane Wen‐Wei Ku
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineTaipei City Hospital Renai BranchTaipeiTaiwan
- HIV Education and Research Taiwan (HEART) AssociationTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Tsai‐Wei Chen
- Department of Public HealthCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Chia‐Wen Li
- Infection Control Center and Department of Internal MedicineNational Cheng Kung University HospitalCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Poyao Huang
- Institute of Health Behaviors and Community SciencesNational Taiwan UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Huei‐Jiuan Wu
- The Kirby InstituteUNSW SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Adam Bourne
- The Kirby InstituteUNSW SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Australian Research Centre in SexHealth and SocietyLa Trobe UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Carol Strong
- Department of Public HealthCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
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Hong C, Holloway IW, Graham SM, Simoni JM, Yu F, Xue H, Zhang D, Mi G. Awareness of and Willingness to Use On-Demand HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men Using a Gay Social Networking App in China. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:155-158. [PMID: 36946759 PMCID: PMC10771871 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chenglin Hong
- Department of Social Welfare, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ian W. Holloway
- Department of Social Welfare, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Susan M. Graham
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jane M. Simoni
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Beijing Media Limited, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Xue
- Danlan Beijing Media Limited, Beijing, China
| | - Dapeng Zhang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Guodong Mi
- Danlan Beijing Media Limited, Beijing, China
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Wu HJ, Yu YF, Ku SWW, Tseng YC, Yuan CW, Li CW, Huang PH, Ko NY, Anderson PL, Strong C. Usability and effectiveness of adherence monitoring of a mobile app designed to monitor and improve adherence to event-driven and daily HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among men who have sex with men in Taiwan. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221102770. [PMID: 35646378 PMCID: PMC9131382 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221102770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The UPrEPU mobile app is a self-monitoring system to enable men who have sex with men to optimize their pre-exposure prophylaxis adherence for HIV prevention. The app was designed to accommodate a rather complicated event-driven dosing schedule. We aim to evaluate the usability of the UPrEPU app and its effectiveness in improving adherence monitoring. Methods From May to October 2020, 35 participants were enrolled for the usability study and followed up for 4 months. Blood samples for the drug concentration in the dried blood spots were obtained once during the second to fourth follow-up visits. The effectiveness of adherence monitoring was analyzed using Cohen's kappa statistic to calculate the concordance between the average number of pills taken and drug concentration in the dried blood spots. Results Overall retention was 91.4% (32 participants) at the end of the study. Participants used the app for a mean of 29 days and made 2565 data entries in total, with an average of 76 data entries. The average systematic usability scale score for the app was 71.5, indicating acceptable usability. Slight agreement was reached between the dried blood spots measurement and the number of pills taken and recorded in the app (weighted kappa: 0.21). Conclusions Our user-centered UPrEPU app demonstrated that it could accommodate both daily and event-driven dosing schedules for men who have sex with men clients with acceptable usability scores. We confirmed that complex behaviors such as different drug-dosing regimens that are contingent on sexual behaviors could be incorporated into the design of a mobile app.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huei-Jiuan Wu
- UNSW Sydney, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yi-Fang Yu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Stephane Wen-Wei Ku
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Taipei City Hospital Renai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Chi Tseng
- Institute of Service Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wen Yuan
- Graduate Institute of Library & Information Studies, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wen Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hsien Huang
- Department of Psychology, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Ying Ko
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Peter L. Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Carol Strong
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Yu YF, Wu HJ, Ku SWW, Huang PH, Li CW, Huang P, Strong C. Condomless Anal Sex Associated With Heterogeneous Profiles Of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Use and Sexual Activities Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Latent Class Analysis Using Sex Diary Data on a Mobile App. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e33877. [PMID: 34941560 PMCID: PMC8738983 DOI: 10.2196/33877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background New innovative technologies, such as mobile apps, have been developed to increase pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence and the use of log sex diaries. The contiguity of mobile apps reduces the recall bias that generally affects reported condom and PrEP use. However, none of the currently used mobile apps were designed for event-driven PrEP users, and few studies have demonstrated the potential usage of sex diary data to facilitate the understanding of the different HIV risks among heterogeneous profiles of sex diaries and PrEP use. Objective We aim to discriminate the heterogeneous profiles of sex events and PrEP use and examine the risk of condomless anal sex among different types of sex events. Methods We recruited 35 adult men who have sex with men from two medical centers in Taiwan since May 2020 and followed up for four months. Participants were on PrEP or willing to take PrEP. They were asked to log their sex events, PrEP use, and dosing regimens on a mobile app to improve their PrEP adherence. Latent class analysis was used to distinguish profiles of sex events and PrEP use. Indicators included correct intake of PrEP for each sex event, participants’ sexual positioning, partner’s HIV status, and age. Results A total of 551 sex events were classified into three classes by latent class analysis: PrEP nonadherent flip-flopping (234/551, 42%), PrEP imperfect-adherent power bottoming (284/551, 52%), and PrEP adherent serodiscordant topping (33/551, 6%). “PrEP nonadherent flip-flopping” sex events were more likely to involve condomless anal sex than “PrEP imperfect-adherent power bottoming” (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.03-3.25) after considering random intercepts for individuals, and this class needed to increase their PrEP adherence and use of condoms. “PrEP imperfect-adherent power bottoming” realized their own risk and packaged PrEP with condoms to protect themselves. Up to 99% (32/33) of sex events in “PrEP adherent serodiscordant topping” were protected by PrEP, but all of the sex events in this group were condomless. Conclusions Using the sex diary data could advance the capacity to identify high-risk groups. HIV prevention strategy should be more flexible and combine PrEP with condom use for future HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Fang Yu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Jiuan Wu
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephane Wen-Wei Ku
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Taipei City Hospital Renai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hsien Huang
- Department of Psychology, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wen Li
- Center for Infection Control and Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Poyao Huang
- Institute of Health Behavior and Community Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Carol Strong
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Kwan TH, Lui GCY, Lam TTN, Lee KCK, Wong NS, Chan DPC, Lee SS. Comparison between daily and on-demand PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) regimen in covering condomless anal intercourse for men who have sex with men in Hong Kong: A randomized, controlled, open-label, crossover trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25795. [PMID: 34473402 PMCID: PMC8412015 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Both daily and on-demand regimens have been proven effective for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV in men who have sex with men (MSM). We aimed to compare the two regimens on their coverage of condomless anal intercourse (CLAI) in MSM. METHODS A randomized, controlled, open-label, crossover trial was conducted in a teaching hospital in Hong Kong. Participants were sexually active HIV-negative MSM aged 18 years or above with normal renal function and without chronic hepatitis B infection. Oral tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg (TDF/FTC) tablets were prescribed for PrEP. After a 2-week lead-in with daily TDF/FTC for treatment-naïve MSM for tolerance assessment, participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio with a block size of four to either daily-first or on-demand-first arm based on the IPERGAY study, for receiving PrEP for 16 weeks, then crossed-over to the alternative regimen for another 16 weeks. The primary outcome was the proportion of days with PrEP-covered CLAI by intention-to-treat analysis. The trial is registered with the CCRB Clinical Trials Registry, CUHK, CUHK_CCRB00606, and is closed to accrual. RESULTS Between 25 August 2018 and 23 March 2019, 119 eligible participants were assigned to daily-first arm (n = 59) and on-demand-first arm (n = 60) with an 87% overall completion rate (n = 103). With 96% and 54% of days on PrEP during daily and on-demand periods, respectively, the proportion of days with PrEP-covered CLAI between two arms were not statistically different (92% vs. 92%, p = 0.93). About half (47%) were diagnosed with at least one episode of incident sexually transmitted infection. Mild and time-limited adverse events, including diarrhoea, headache, nausea and dizziness, were reported in 37 (31%) and 10 (8%) during the daily and on-demand periods, respectively. At the end of the study, a similar proportion favoured daily or on-demand regimen. CONCLUSIONS High prevention-effective adherence, as reflected from the coverage of CLAI, was achievable by either daily or on-demand PrEP among MSM, albeit a higher number of tablets taken for daily PrEP. As both regimens were well accepted, a flexible approach adopting either or both regimens with possible switching is warranted in order to suit individual health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsz Ho Kwan
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious DiseasesThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong
| | - Grace Chung Yan Lui
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious DiseasesThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong
- Department of Medicine and TherapeuticsThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong
| | | | | | - Ngai Sze Wong
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious DiseasesThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong
| | - Denise Pui Chung Chan
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious DiseasesThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong
| | - Shui Shan Lee
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious DiseasesThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatinHong Kong
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Wu H, Wen‐Wei Ku S, Chang HH, Li C, Ko N, Strong C. Imperfect adherence in real life: a prevention-effective perspective on adherence to daily and event-driven HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among men who have sex with men - a prospective cohort study in Taiwan. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25733. [PMID: 34018330 PMCID: PMC8138098 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Both daily and event-driven (ED) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have been demonstrated to be highly effective among men who have sex with men (MSM). Prevention-effective adherence proposes that PrEP adherence should be aligned with the risk of HIV, which could be applied to both daily and ED PrEP adherence measurement. The objective of this study was to describe the relationship between the use of PrEP and sex events among the MSM PrEP users and identify factors associated with adherence among daily and ED MSM PrEP users. METHODS A multicentre, observational, prospective cohort study was conducted at three hospital-based clinics in three urban cities of Taiwan from January 2018 to December 2019. MSM ages 18 years or older - at high risk of HIV acquisition and taking PrEP during the study period - were included in the analysis. MSM PrEP users were allowed to choose between daily and ED PrEP based on their preference. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, mental health, sexual behaviours, substance use and PrEP-taking behaviours were collected at each visit. RESULTS A total of 374 MSM were included in the analysis with 1,054 visits. More than half (56%) of the PrEP users chose ED at the baseline and 150 regimen switches were reported by 21% of the participants. There was only one seroconversion documented during the study period. Most (84.2%) of the MSM PrEP users were able to adhere to PrEP during the most recent anal intercourse in the past one month. Among ED PrEP users with suboptimal adherence, the majority (81.9%) missed the pre-coital dose. In the multivariable analysis, we found that participants who switched from daily to an ED dosing regimen were associated with poorer adherence to PrEP. CONCLUSIONS A high level of PrEP adherence was observed among the majority of MSM in a real-world setting. On the other hand, Taiwanese MSM switching from daily to ED dosing regimens were less likely to adhere to PrEP, suggesting that novel approaches focusing on a dosing switch would be necessary for MSM to improve their adherence to PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huei‐Jiuan Wu
- Department of Public HealthCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
- The Kirby InstituteUNSW SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Stephane Wen‐Wei Ku
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineTaipei Veterans General HospitalTaiwan
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineTaipei City Hospital Renai BranchTaiwan
| | - Howard H. Chang
- Department of Biostatistics and BioinformaticsEmory UniversityAtlantaGAUSA
| | - Chia‐Wen Li
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of Internal MedicineNational Cheng Kung University HospitalCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Nai‐Ying Ko
- Department of NursingCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Carol Strong
- Department of Public HealthCollege of MedicineNational Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
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Strong C, Wu HJ, Tseng YC, Yuan CW, Yu YF, Liao JC, Chen YW, Hung YC, Li CW, Huang PH, Ko NY, Ku SWW. Mobile App (UPrEPU) to Monitor Adherence to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in Men Who Have Sex With Men: Protocol for a User-Centered Approach to Mobile App Design and Development. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e20360. [PMID: 33258793 PMCID: PMC7738248 DOI: 10.2196/20360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Daily and on-demand pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been well demonstrated to effectively prevent HIV acquisition for men who have sex with men (MSM). More than half of the MSM PrEP users in Taiwan prefer on-demand PrEP; however, on-demand PrEP involves a complicated dosing regimen because it requires precoital and postcoital dosing and sex events are hard to anticipate. Although there are a growing number of mobile apps designed to improve access to HIV prevention services and HIV medication adherence, few mobile apps focus on adherence to PrEP or are designed to accommodate a complicated, on-demand PrEP dosing schedule. OBJECTIVE The aim of this project is to evaluate the usability of a newly developed mobile app (UPrEPU) to assist MSM PrEP users to self-monitor their adherence to either daily or on-demand PrEP using a user-centered scheme. METHODS This research will be conducted in 2 phases: app development and usability study. In the app development phase, we will first conduct formative research with end users and stakeholders through in-depth interviews; the results will provide PrEP users' and PrEP navigators' personas as material used in the app conceptualization stage. PrEP navigators are individuals in the health care system that help HIV-negative individuals who need assistance in accessing PrEP care. A low-fidelity prototype of the app feature will be formatted by applying a participatory design approach to engage PrEP users, designers, and app developers in the design process of the app. Then, a high-fidelity prototype of the app will be developed for the usability study and refined iteratively by the multidisciplinary team and new internal testers. Internal testers include the research team consisting of experts in public health, infectious disease, and industrial design and a close network of the research team that is taking PrEP. In the usability study phase, we will enroll 70 MSM PrEP users and follow them up for 4 months. Usability, feasibility, and effectiveness of adherence monitoring will be evaluated. RESULTS Refinement of the UPrEPU app is currently ongoing. The usability study commenced in May 2020. CONCLUSIONS The UPrEPU app is one of the first apps designed to help MSM PrEP users to self-manage their PrEP schedule better regardless of dosing modes. With a design-thinking approach and adapting to the cultural context in Taiwan's MSM population, this novel app will have substantial potential to be acceptable and feasible and contribute to the reduction of new HIV infections. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04248790; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04248790. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/20360.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Strong
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Jiuan Wu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan.,Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Yuan-Chi Tseng
- Institute of Service Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu City, Taiwan.,Department of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu City, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wen Yuan
- Graduate Institute of Library & Information Studies, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Fang Yu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Jay Chiehen Liao
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Chen
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chen Hung
- Institute of Service Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wen Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hsien Huang
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Ying Ko
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Cheng-Kung University and Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan.,Taiwan Love and Hope Association, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Stephane Wen-Wei Ku
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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