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Baruwa OJ. Associations between lifetime pregnancy and sexual risk behaviors among 15-24-year-old adolescent girls and young women in South Africa: Secondary analyses of the 2016 Demographic Health Survey. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003317. [PMID: 38833444 PMCID: PMC11149865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in South Africa are highly vulnerable to HIV and poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes. Interventions must respond to the unique needs of different AGYW groups, such as AGYW who have ever been pregnant. The objective of the study is to examine associations between pregnancy and sexual risk behaviors among AGYW in South Africa. This study used the 2016 nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) of South Africa (n = 1935, 15-24 years old). Sexual risk behavior outcomes included: early sexual debut (defined as having sexual intercourse before the age of 15 years), age-disparate relationship (defined as having sexual partners who are five years and older in the past one month), multiple sexual partnerships, no condom use at last sex, and lastly, cumulative sexual risk (defined as reporting at least two of the outcomes: early sexual debut, age-disparate relationship, multiple sexual partners, and no condom use at last sex). Data analyses were conducted using logistic regression in STATA version 16. Statistical significance was determined at a P-value less than 0.05, with 95% confidence interval reported. AGYW who experienced lifetime pregnancy were more likely to report early sexual debut (OR = 1.71, 95%CI = 1.30-2.32), age-disparate relationships (OR = 1.58, 95%CI = 1.20-2.08), no condom use at last sex (OR = 2.77, 95%CI = 2.09-3.69), and cumulative sexual risk (OR = 1.82, 95%CI = 1.38-2.41). Multiple sexual partnerships showed no significant associations with lifetime pregnancy. Married or cohabiting AGYW were more likely to report cumulative sexual risk behaviors. (OR = 2.67, 95%CI = 1.91-3.71). Cumulative sexual risk behaviors were lower among AGYW with secondary education (OR = 0.57, 95%CI = 0.33-0.99) and those from rich households (OR = 0.62, 95%CI = 0.43-0.88). The findings underscore the need for interventions promoting safe sex and relationships, especially among AGYW who have experienced pregnancy. Programming should address the structural, socio-economic drivers of early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ololade Julius Baruwa
- Centre for Social Sciences Research (CSSR), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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2
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Methazia JJ, Bessenaar TP, Baum SE. " We mostly focus on preventing pregnancy, we don't really focus on preventing HIV … ": Young people's perceptions and priorities when preventing unplanned pregnancy and HIV. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38426482 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2023.2279646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
In South Africa, the high rate of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among young people and unplanned pregnancies remains a concern. Using a qualitative approach, this study aimed to explore how young people between 18 and 24 years old perceive the risk of unplanned pregnancy and HIV, and how they give priority to and act to prevent both concerns. Fifty-four young people were recruited from three provinces in South Africa: KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Gauteng. Data collection took place between May and June in 2016. All data collection was carried out in person using a standardised discussion guide and a semi-structured interview guide in English. We conducted eight focus group discussions with young people and three in-depth interviews with young people who had become parents in their teens. We utilised thematic analysis grounded in a social constructionist framework to assess patterns and associations in the data. Respondents reported unplanned pregnancy and HIV as prevalent among their peers, but prioritised both concerns differently. Preventing pregnancy was a greater priority and threat than HIV. Respondents were less concerned about being infected with HIV which was perceived as invisible and not a death sentence because of the efficacy and ease of use of treatment. HIV was considered comparatively more manageable and less burdensome than other chronic illnesses and unplanned pregnancy. Our study suggests unplanned pregnancy and HIV prevention interventions should prioritise responding to young people's primary desire to control their fertility, but also encourage them to have holistic sexual and reproductive health goals that include HIV prevention. Our findings suggest a pressing need for biomedical therapies that offer combined HIV and pregnancy prevention for young people. Future programmes need to be agile and innovative in addressing young people's tendency to prioritise HIV and pregnancy differently, and they need to revive the sense of urgency to prevent HIV.
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Jonas K, Bergh K, Duby Z, Mangoale K, Mogari N, Kuo C, Reddy T, Mathews C. Using prevention cascades to investigate coverage of contraception services among young women enrolled in a large-scale combination HIV prevention program in South Africa. Contraception 2024; 130:110307. [PMID: 37863465 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2023.110307] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We investigated the coverage of contraception services (excluding condoms) to prevent unintended pregnancy among young women and girls aged 15 to 24 years who were beneficiaries of one of the two largest combination HIV and pregnancy prevention program in South Africa. STUDY DESIGN We invited 2160 randomly sampled beneficiaries who were living in six of the 12 program districts across six provinces to participate in a telephone survey. We created pregnancy prevention coverage cascades and conducted univariate and multivariable analyses to identify key barriers and facilitators associated with each step of the cascade. RESULTS We achieved a response rate of 23.8%, resulting in 515 respondents, of whom 303 had sex in the 6 months before the survey. Of this subsample, 80.4% had access to contraception services, 60.6% had access and motivation to use contraceptives, and 21.9% had access to, motivation to use, and effectively used contraceptives. Distance to travel to services and not ever being offered contraceptives by health workers were access barriers, while low pregnancy risk perception was a barrier to motivation. CONCLUSIONS Most respondents had access to and were motivated to use contraceptives other than condoms but were not effectively using them. Having been offered contraceptives facilitated better access, while distance to the services was a barrier, suggesting the importance of improving supply-side interventions, such as increasing the number and accessibility of spaces where Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services are offered. We recommend longitudinal behavioral counseling for young people, especially adolescents, as well as risk reduction and information-tailored interventions. IMPLICATIONS Pregnancy prevention cascades are a promising tool to monitor progress toward universal access to contraception services and to identify barriers that need to be addressed to achieve the effective use of contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Jonas
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Kate Bergh
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Zoe Duby
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa; Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences in the School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kgahliso Mangoale
- Networking HIV and AIDS Community of Southern Africa (NACOSA), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Neo Mogari
- Networking HIV and AIDS Community of Southern Africa (NACOSA), Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Tarylee Reddy
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Catherine Mathews
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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Ramaiya A, Chandra-Mouli V, Both R, Gottert A, Guglielmi S, Beckwith S, Li M, Blum RW. Assessing the health, social, educational and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescents in low- and middle-income countries: a rapid review of the literature. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2023; 31:2187170. [PMID: 36987980 PMCID: PMC10062253 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2023.2187170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has caused profound health, social, educational and economic devastation around the world, especially among the lives of adolescents in low- and middle-income countries. This paper looks at a wide array of outcomes impacting adolescents' daily lives including health (mental, physical, sexual and reproductive health, vaccine perceptions and overlap between these topics), social relationships (family and peer), education and socio-economic disparities. Both scientific and grey literature between December 2019 and February 2022 were sought from PubMed, Google Scholar and organisations conducting research among adolescents, and coded. A total of 89 articles were included, 73% of which were peer-reviewed; 37% of the articles were from WHO's Western Pacific region; 62% of the articles were cross-sectional; 75% were quantitative. Three major topics emerged in more than half the articles: mental health (72%), education (61%) and socio-economic ramifications (55%). However, there were regional differences in topics and many of them overlapped. The results indicate that, where there has been research, almost all findings have been linked to worse mental health during the pandemic. Overall, remote education was seen as a negative experience. The ramification of school closures on future aspirations, in particular early school leaving, highlights the importance of prioritising education during future pandemics based on the situation within the country. Gender and other disparities have made marginalised adolescents vulnerable to the economic ramifications of containment measures. Given the risks identified, there is a pressing need to put adolescents at the centre of establishing priorities for their health agenda for post-pandemic recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astha Ramaiya
- Assistant Scientist, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Venkatraman Chandra-Mouli
- Scientist, Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Human Reproductive Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Ann Gottert
- Associate II, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Silvia Guglielmi
- Qualitative researcher, Gender and Adolescence: Global Evidence, London, UK
| | - Sam Beckwith
- PhD candidate, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mengmeng Li
- PhD candidate, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Robert W. Blum
- Professor, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Laurenzi C, Operario D, Mutambo C, Mupakile E, Banda B, Ngakongwa F, Kilonzo R, Busakhwe C, Ronan A, Toska E. Lessons From Implementing Ask-Boost-Connect-Discuss, a Peer-Delivered Psychosocial Intervention for Young Mothers Living With HIV in Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2023; 11:e2300077. [PMID: 37903574 PMCID: PMC10615246 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-23-00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan Africa are at high risk of HIV, unintended pregnancy, and early motherhood. These intersecting risks can adversely affect their developmental trajectories and lifelong well-being. Because young mothers living with HIV in these settings experience high levels of stigma, shame, and isolation, tailored psychosocial intervention approaches for this group are critical yet unavailable. Enlisting young peer supporters may be a promising way to expand the reach of health services and enhance psychosocial well-being. To date, few peer-based interventions have targeted young mothers living with HIV. In 2019-2021, we codeveloped a peer-based, facility-embedded intervention package, Ask-Boost-Connect-Discuss (ABCD), with young peer supporters to address the psychosocial needs of young mothers living with HIV in Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. We then analyzed programmatic data from ABCD to assess the feasibility of using young peers to deliver psychosocial support. Data sources included post-intervention interviews, focus groups, and written feedback from multiple stakeholders (participants, peer supporters, their supervisors, and clinic-based mentors), which were analyzed thematically. We organized our findings according to Bowen et al.'s feasibility framework. Findings spoke to the acceptability, practicality, and integration of the ABCD program. We found that young peer supporters were seen as acceptable program implementers; able to adopt responsive, engaging, and nonjudgmental approaches; and supported through training, technical skills development, and supervision, alongside purposeful facility integration. Importantly, we also found evidence reflecting the roles of demand and adaptation in program delivery (i.e., how peers responded to emerging participant needs or pivoted in their approach based on shifting circumstances). We conclude that considerations of intervention feasibility and/or program fidelity should be attuned to the dynamic qualities of young peer supporters as implementers and should extend beyond standard modes of assessment to consider intervention codevelopment and implementation as an iterative and adaptive process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chipo Mutambo
- Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Chuma Busakhwe
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Agnes Ronan
- Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Jalinga Vuamaiku G, Epuitai J, Andru M, Aleni M. “I Don’t Support It for My Children”: Perceptions of Parents and Guardians regarding the Use of Modern Contraceptives by Adolescents in Arua City, Uganda. Int J Reprod Med 2023; 2023:6289886. [PMID: 37051291 PMCID: PMC10085655 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6289886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the high rates of adolescent pregnancies, the utilization of modern contraceptives is still low among adolescents in Uganda which highlights a missed opportunity for the prevention of unwanted pregnancies among adolescents. We explored the perception of parents and guardians regarding the use of modern contraceptives by adolescents and the roles parents and guardians play in the use of modern contraceptives by the adolescents. A descriptive qualitative study was conducted in one of the suburbs of Arua city in the West Nile subregion in Uganda. Fifteen (15) in-depth interviews were conducted with parents and or guardians to explore their perceptions and roles regarding the use of modern contraceptives by adolescents. Thematic analysis was used in qualitative data analysis. Parents did not support adolescents’ use of modern contraceptives. Lack of parental support was related to perceptions that modern contraceptives promote sexual promiscuity, fear that it causes infertility and that it is incompatible with cultural, religious, and moral norms. Parents and guardians opted to emphasize the importance of abstinence, conformity with cultural and religious norms, and the need to focus on completing school instead of encouraging the use of modern contraceptives. Few parents and guardians supported the use of modern contraceptives, specifically condoms, to prevent unwanted pregnancy by the adolescents and parents/guardians, sexually transmitted infections, and early school dropouts. Parents and guardians expressed feelings of inadequacy related to discussions on contraception use with their adolescent children and therefore avoided talking about it. Our study reveals a lack of parental support regarding the use of modern contraceptives among adolescents. Public health interventions which promote intergenerational, socioculturally, and religiously appropriate communication should be instituted in the communities in order to promote sustainable adoption of modern contraceptive use among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joshua Epuitai
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Monicah Andru
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Muni University, Arua, Uganda
| | - Mary Aleni
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Muni University, Arua, Uganda
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7
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Kumar M, Tele A, Kathono J, Nyongesa V, Yator O, Mwaniga S, Huang KY, McKay M, Lai J, Levy M, Cuijpers P, Quaife M, Unutzer J. Understanding depression treatment and perinatal service preferences of Kenyan pregnant adolescents: A discrete choice experiment. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0273274. [PMID: 36888596 PMCID: PMC9994687 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273274] [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: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding mental health treatment preferences of adolescents and youth is particularly important for interventions to be acceptable and successful. Person-centered care mandates empowering individuals to take charge of their own health rather than being passive recipients of services. METHODS We conducted a discrete choice experiment to quantitatively measure adolescent treatment preferences for different care characteristics and explore tradeoffs between these. A total of 153 pregnant adolescents were recruited from two primary healthcare facilities in the informal urban settlement of Nairobi. We selected eight attributes of depression treatment option models drawn from literature review and previous qualitative work. Bayesian d-efficient design was used to identify main effects. A total of ten choice tasks were solicited per respondent. We evaluated mean preferences using mixed logit models to adjust for within subject correlation and account for unobserved heterogeneity. RESULTS Respondents showed a positive preference that caregivers be provided with information sheets, as opposed to co-participation with caregivers. With regards to treatment options, the respondents showed a positive preference for 8 sessions as compared to 4 sessions. With regards to intervention delivery agents, the respondents had a positive preference for facility nurses as compared to community health volunteers. In terms of support, the respondents showed positive preference for parenting skills as compared to peer support. Our respondents expressed negative preferences of ANC service combined with older mothers as compared to adolescent friendly services and of being offered refreshments alone. A positive preference was revealed for combined refreshments and travel allowance over travel allowance or refreshments alone. A number of these suggestions were about enhancing their experience of maternity clinical care experience. CONCLUSION This study highlights unique needs of this population. Pregnant adolescents' value responsive maternity and depression care services offered by nurses. Participants shared preference for longer psychotherapy sessions and their preference was to have adolescent centered maternal mental health and child health services within primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasi Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Albert Tele
- Vrije University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Ikuze Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joseph Kathono
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Nairobi Metropolitan Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Obadia Yator
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shillah Mwaniga
- Vrije University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Nairobi Metropolitan Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Keng Yen Huang
- New York University Medical School, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Mary McKay
- Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Joanna Lai
- UNICEF Headquarters, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Marcy Levy
- UNICEF Headquarters, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Matthew Quaife
- London School of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Bloomsbury, United Kingdom
| | - Jurgen Unutzer
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Dietrich JJ, Jonas K, Cheyip M, Appollis TM, Ariyo O, Beauclair R, Lombard C, Gray GE, Mathews C. Examining the Relationship Between Psychosocial Factors with Knowledge of HIV-Positive Status and Antiretroviral Therapy Exposure Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women Living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:231-244. [PMID: 35841462 PMCID: PMC9841063 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03759-6] [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: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) living with HIV have poor antiretroviral therapy (ART) outcomes. We examined the relationship between psychosocial factors with knowledge of HIV-positive status and antiretroviral therapy exposure among AGYW living with HIV in South Africa. Participants 15-24 years responded to a survey including socio-demographics, psychosocial factors, and HIV testing. Blood was collected to determine HIV status and ART exposure. Multivariable analyses were conducted using R. Of 568 participants with HIV, 356 had knowledge of their HIV-positive status. Social support from family [aOR 1.14 (95% CI 1.04-1.24)] or from a special person [aOR 1.12 (95% CI 1.02-1.23)] was associated with knowledge of HIV-positive status. Resilience [aOR 1.05 (95% CI 1.01-1.08)] was the only psychosocial factor associated with a higher odds of ART exposure. Social support and resilience may increase knowledge of HIV-positive status and ART exposure among South African AGYW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janan J. Dietrich
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kim Jonas
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mireille Cheyip
- Division of Global Health Protection, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Tracy McClinton Appollis
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Roxanne Beauclair
- The South African Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation (DST-NRF) Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Carl Lombard
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, University of Stellenbosch, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Glenda E. Gray
- Office of the President, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Catherine Mathews
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Groenewald C, Isaacs N, Qoza P. Hope, agency, and adolescents' sexual and reproductive health: A mini review. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1007005. [PMID: 36874262 PMCID: PMC9982081 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1007005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Availability of and access to services that promote sexual and reproductive health (SRH) amongst adolescent girls have become a global priority. Yet, while researchers have explored factors that influence the uptake of SRH services in low-and-middle income countries, the roles that "agency" and "hope" play in adolescent SRH is less understood. To study this, this mini review systematically reviewed the literature across three databases, EBSCO-host web, Pubmed and South Africa (SA) epublications, for the period of January 2012 to January 2022. Findings showed that a paucity of studies identified the link between agency, hope and adolescent SRH respectively. Our review included 12 articles and found no studies that focused on hope and its role in adolescent SRH or seeking SRH services. However, the literature revealed the complexities of adolescent SRH agency and autonomy where female adolescents had limited autonomy to make SRH decisions. Limited access to adolescent friendly SRH services was also found to restrict girls' agency to prevent unintended pregnancies or to take up SRH support. Given the paucity of research, empirical studies are needed to further understand the extent to which hope, agency and other subjective factors implicate adolescent SRH in the African context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice Groenewald
- Centre for Community-Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa.,Psychology Department, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| | - Nazeema Isaacs
- Impact Centre, Human Sciences Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Phiwokazi Qoza
- Centre for Community-Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
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10
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Malama K, Logie CH, Okumu M, Hakiza R, Mwima S, Kyambadde P. Factors associated with motherhood among urban refugee adolescent girls and young women in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda. Women Health 2023; 63:51-58. [PMID: 36529708 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2022.2158411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa face a high risk of unintended pregnancy. This risk is compounded in informal settlements, where resources are scarce and access to sexual and reproductive health services is limited. Being a young mother in informal settlements could exacerbate existing experiences of resource scarcity and poor access to sexual and reproductive health services. To explore this, we analyzed the factors associated with motherhood among refugee AGYW in Kampala, Uganda. Between January and March 2018, peer researchers recruited refugee youth aged 15-24 and living in five informal settlements in Kampala to participate in this study. We used a backwards generalized linear model with a log binomial regression to determine if mental health, resource insecurity and sexual and reproductive health variables were associated with motherhood among study participants. Our analysis included 333 AGYW with a mean age of 19.3 years (standard deviation: 2.6). Nearly one-quarter (23 percent; n = 76) of AGYW had children. Having children was associated with greater likelihood of reporting food insecurity (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR]: 1.96, 95 percent confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-3.61), depressive symptoms (aPR: 2.03, 95 percent CI: 1.09-3.80), and contraception uptake (aPR: 2.37, 95 percent CI: 1.58-3.56) compared to not having children. Mental health and resource insecurity interventions are required for refugee AGYW with children in informal settlements. Sexual and reproductive health services should be promoted to refugee AGYW regardless of motherhood status to prevent unplanned pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalonde Malama
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Moses Okumu
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA.,Department of Social Work and Social Administration Uganda Christian University, Mukono, Uganda
| | - Robert Hakiza
- Young African Refugees for Integral Development, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Simon Mwima
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA.,AIDS Control Program Republic of Uganda Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Kyambadde
- Most At Risk Population Initiative Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
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11
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Chingono R, Kasese C, Miles S, Busza J. 'I was in need of somewhere to release my hurt:' Addressing the mental health of vulnerable adolescent mothers in Harare, Zimbabwe, through self-help groups. Glob Health Action 2022; 15:2040151. [PMID: 35322767 PMCID: PMC8956306 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2040151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescents experiencing multiple vulnerabilities, including poverty, curtailed education, transactional sex and early childbearing, are at risk of poor mental health. In Zimbabwe, girls who are pregnant or new mothers and involved in selling sex struggle to cope with the combined pressures of parenthood, financial insecurity, and social stigma. A pilot intervention brought such girls together into self-help groups to increase peer support, resources and skills. Objective This study aimed to explore whether and how participation in a self-help group intervention affected vulnerable young mothers’ experiences and perceptions of mental health stressors. Methods Self-help groups received 12 participatory sessions over 6 months. Eighteen semi-structured interviews and three focus group discussions were held with participants and drop-outs. Before and after the intervention, participants completed the locally validated 14-item Shona Symptom Questionnaire tool to indicate the probable prevalence of common mental health disorders. Results Adolescent girls described mutually reinforcing stressors in their lives and reported low self-esteem and anxiety. Key themes emerging from qualitative data centred around girls’ struggles with adverse life events, the burden of new motherhood, social isolation related to sex work and self-help groups as a source of hope. Participants joined groups to obtain support and felt their mental well-being improved due to new social networks, feelings of solidarity with peers, and increased confidence for positive action, that is, seeking health services for themselves and their babies. Prior to enrolment 16% showed signs of possible common mental disorders falling to 2% at follow-up. Conclusions Participants believed involvement in interactive self-help groups improved their mental health by strengthening peer support and engendering hope for the future. Although reduced mental distress cannot be attributed to the programme, the pilot intervention offers a low-cost approach that could be rigorously tested and adapted to a wide range of community settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudo Chingono
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Institute of Global Health, University College London, UK
| | - Constance Kasese
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sam Miles
- Department of Public Health, Environment & Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joanna Busza
- Department of Public Health, Environment & Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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12
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Mhungu A, Sixsmith J, Burnett E. Adolescent Girls and Young Women's Experiences of Living with HIV in the Context of Patriarchal Culture in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:1365-1379. [PMID: 36318422 PMCID: PMC10129999 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03872-6] [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: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionately affected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to socio-cultural gender, power, and economic disparities. This scoping review examined the literature to explore what is known about AGYW's everyday personal, relational, and social experiences of HIV to help shape future protective HIV policy and practice. Six databases were searched: Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, ASSIA, Google Scholar, and ProQuest, resulting in a total of 12,581 articles. Of these, 40 articles were included in the review. Key themes generated from the thematic analysis were relational and psychosocial challenges, inhibiting sexual expression, poverty, stigma, and discrimination; managing health in everyday life; agency and resilience; and personal space and social support. In conclusion, the review found a lack of understanding of AGYW's everyday experiences of living with HIV from their own perspectives. There was also little consideration of the role of patriarchal culture and how this constrains AGYW's ability to negotiate their relationships. Further research is needed to reveal AGYW's perspectives on living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alington Mhungu
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, 11 Arlie Place, DD1 4HN, Dundee, Scotland.
| | - Judith Sixsmith
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, 11 Arlie Place, DD1 4HN, Dundee, Scotland
| | - Emma Burnett
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, 11 Arlie Place, DD1 4HN, Dundee, Scotland
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13
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Palfreyman A, Gazeley U. Adolescent perinatal mental health in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review of qualitative and quantitative evidence. Soc Sci Med 2022; 313:115413. [PMID: 36215926 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115413] [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] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite the contribution of mental ill-health to perinatal morbidity and mortality, the experiences of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in low- and middle-income countries remain overlooked. This review explores potential intersecting vulnerabilities for perinatal mental health to identify the prevalence, risk factors, interventions, and implications for health services and future research. We searched mixed-methods English-language studies in four databases (MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Global Health, Embase) published between January 1, 2000 and April 30, 2022 reporting age-disaggregated data on the prevalence, risk factors, and interventions for AGYW's mental health during pregnancy through one year postpartum (quantitative) and/or the mental health experiences of AGYW in the perinatal period (qualitative). Our search yielded 3205 results, of which 48 met the inclusion criteria. Both regions observe a paucity of robust evidence and intervention evaluations, particularly South Asia. While meta-analysis was infeasible due to study heterogeneity, quantitative studies do identify individual-level risk factors for perinatal depression. Qualitative studies emphasise stigma's impact, among other societal-level social risk factors, on diverse perinatal mental health outcomes of importance to AGYW themselves. Rigorous evaluations of interventions are lacking bar two protocols with forthcoming results. Evidence gaps persist concerning prevalence of outcomes beyond depression and implications of AGYW's perinatal experiences including pregnancy/perinatal loss and obstetric and postpartum complications. High-quality research, including comparable prevalence and multi-method evidence identifying risk and protective factors and promising interventions is urgently needed to improve adolescent wellbeing in the perinatal period. A key strength of this review is our assessment of available evidence for both regions. In doing so, we address a critical blind spot of prior reviews that focused either on adult perinatal mental health in low- and middle-income countries, or on AGYW perinatal mental health in high-income settings but neglected the intersection of these potential vulnerabilities for these high-burden, low-resource contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Palfreyman
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
| | - Ursula Gazeley
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
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14
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Stanton AM, O'Cleirigh C, Knight L, Davey DLJ, Myer L, Joska JA, Mayer KH, Bekker L, Psaros C. The importance of assessing and addressing mental health barriers to PrEP use during pregnancy and postpartum in sub-Saharan Africa: state of the science and research priorities. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e26026. [PMID: 36251124 PMCID: PMC9575939 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pregnant and postpartum women (PPW) in sub‐Saharan Africa are at disproportionately high risk of HIV infection compared to non‐pregnant women. When used consistently, pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can prevent HIV acquisition and transmission to the foetus or infant during these critical periods. Recent studies have demonstrated associations between mental health challenges (e.g. depression and traumatic stress associated with intimate partner violence) and decreased PrEP adherence and persistence, particularly among adolescents, younger women and women in the postpartum period. However, mental health is not currently a major focus of PrEP implementation research and programme planning for PPW. Discussion PrEP implementation programmes for PPW need to assess and address mental health barriers to consistent PrEP use to ensure effectiveness and sustainability in routine care. We highlight three key research priorities that will support PrEP adherence and persistence: (1) include mental health screening tools in PrEP implementation research with PPW, both to assess the feasibility of integrating these tools into routine antenatal and postpartum care and to ensure that limited resources are directed towards women whose symptoms may interfere most with PrEP use; (2) identify cross‐cutting, transdiagnostic psychological mechanisms that affect consistent PrEP use during these periods and can realistically be targeted with intervention in resource‐limited settings; and (3) develop/adapt and test interventions that target those underlying mechanisms, leveraging strategies from existing interventions that have successfully mitigated mental health barriers to antiretroviral therapy use among people with HIV. Conclusions For PPW, implementation of PrEP should be guided by a robust understanding of the unique psychological difficulties that may act as barriers to uptake, adherence and persistence (i.e. sustained adherence over time). We strongly encourage PrEP implementation research in PPW to incorporate validated mental health screening tools and ultimately treatment in routine antenatal and postnatal care, and we stress the potential public health benefits of identifying women who face mental health barriers to PrEP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia M. Stanton
- Department of Psychological and Brain SciencesBoston UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA,Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Fenway HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Conall O'Cleirigh
- Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Fenway HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Lucia Knight
- School of Public HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Dvora L. Joseph Davey
- School of Public HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa,Division of Infectious Diseases, Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Landon Myer
- School of Public HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - John A. Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Kenneth H. Mayer
- Fenway HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA,HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Christina Psaros
- Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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15
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Duby Z, Maruping K, Jonas K, Appollis TM, Vanleeuw L, Mathews C. "We can't share things with our teachers": Narratives of mistrust and disconnect between South African female learners and their teachers. FRONTIERS IN EDUCATION 2022; 7:10.3389/feduc.2022.882959. [PMID: 37207104 PMCID: PMC10193282 DOI: 10.3389/feduc.2022.882959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The quality and nature of student-teacher relationships have implications outside of the academic domain. Support from teachers plays a significant protective role in the mental and emotional well-being of adolescents and young people, and can help to reduce or delay their engagement in risk behaviours, thereby decreasing negative sexual and reproductive health outcomes such as teenage pregnancy. Using the theory of teacher connectedness, an element of school connectedness, this research explores the narratives surrounding teacher-student relationships amongst South African adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and teachers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 10 teachers, and 63 in-depth interviews and 24 focus group discussions with 237 AGYW aged 15-24 from five South African provinces characterised by high rates of HIV and teenage pregnancy amongst AGYW. Analysis of the data followed a thematic and collaborative approach, comprising coding, analytic memo-ing, and verification of emerging interpretations through discussion and participant feedback workshops. Findings related to perceptions of support and connectedness in teacher-student relationships centred around AGYW narratives of mistrust and a lack of support from teachers, and the consequential negative implications for academic performance and motivation to attend school, self-esteem, and mental health. Teachers' narratives centred around challenges providing support, feeling overwhelmed and incapable of fulfilling multiple roles. Findings provide valuable insight into student-teacher relationships in South Africa, their impact on educational attainment, and on the mental health and sexual and reproductive health of AGYW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Duby
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences in the School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- CORRESPONDENCE Zoe Duby
| | - Kealeboga Maruping
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kim Jonas
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tracy McClinton Appollis
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lieve Vanleeuw
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Office of Aids and TB Research, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Catherine Mathews
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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16
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Cluver LD, Sherr L, Toska E, Zhou S, Mellins CA, Omigbodun O, Li X, Bojo S, Thurman T, Ameyan W, Desmond C, Willis N, Laurenzi C, Nombewu A, Tomlinson M, Myeketsi N. From surviving to thriving: integrating mental health care into HIV, community, and family services for adolescents living with HIV. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2022; 6:582-592. [PMID: 35750063 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(22)00101-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents are a crucial generation, with the potential to bring future social and economic success for themselves and their countries. More than 90% of adolescents living with HIV reside in sub-Saharan Africa, where their mental health is set against a background of poverty, familial stress, service gaps, and an HIV epidemic that is now intertwined with the COVID-19 pandemic. In this Series paper, we review systematic reviews, randomised trials, and cohort studies of adolescents living with and affected by HIV. We provide a detailed overview of mental health provision and collate evidence for future approaches. We find that the mental health burden for adolescents living with HIV is high, contributing to low quality of life and challenges with adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Mental health provision is scarce, infrastructure and skilled providers are missing, and leadership is needed. Evidence of effective interventions is emerging, including specific provisions for mental health (eg, cognitive behavioural therapy, problem-solving, mindfulness, and parenting programmes) and broader provisions to prevent drivers of poor mental health (eg, social protection and violence prevention). We provide evidence of longitudinal associations between unconditional government grants and improved mental health. Combinations of economic and social interventions (known as cash plus care) could increase mental health benefits. Scalable delivery models include task sharing, primary care integration, strengthening families, and a pyramid of provision that differentiates between levels of need, from prevention to the care of severe disorders. A turning point has now been reached, from which complacency cannot persist. We conclude that there is substantial need, available frameworks, and a growing evidence base for action while infrastructure and skill acquisition is built.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie D Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Claude-Ann Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Olayinka Omigbodun
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Samuel Bojo
- Agency for Research and Development Initiative, Juba, South Sudan
| | - Tonya Thurman
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Cape Town, South Africa; Tulane University School of Public Health, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Wole Ameyan
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chris Desmond
- Centre for Rural Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Christina Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Amahle Nombewu
- Teen Advisory Group, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mark Tomlinson
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa; School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queens University, Belfast, UK
| | - Noxolo Myeketsi
- Department of Information Systems, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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17
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Logie CH, Okumu M, Malama K, Mwima S, Hakiza R, Kiera UM, Kyambadde P. Examining the substance use, violence, and HIV and AIDS (SAVA) syndemic among urban refugee youth in Kampala, Uganda: cross-sectional survey findings. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2021-006583. [PMID: 35798442 PMCID: PMC9263932 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Interactions between substance use, violence, HIV and AIDS, known as the ‘SAVA’ syndemic, are understudied among refugee youth. We assessed the synergistic effects of frequent alcohol use, depression and violence on HIV vulnerability among urban refugee youth aged 16–24 years in Kampala, Uganda. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey between January and April 2018 with a convenience sample of refugee youth aged 16–24 years living in informal settlements in Kampala (Kabalagala, Rubaga, Kansanga, Katwe, Nsambya). We assessed non-communicable health conditions (frequent [≥3 times per week] alcohol use [FAU]; depression); violence (young adulthood violence [YAV] at age ≥16 years, intimate partner violence [IPV]), and HIV vulnerability (past 12-month transactional sex; recent [past 3-month] multiple [≥2] sex partners). We calculated the prevalence and co-occurrence of non-communicable health conditions, violence and HIV vulnerability variables. We then conducted multivariable logistic regression analyses to first create unique profiles of FAU, depression, YAV and IPV exposures, and second to assess for interactions between exposures on HIV vulnerability outcomes. Results Most participants (n=445; mean age: 19.59, SD: 2.6; women: n=333, 74.8%, men: n=112, 25.2%) reported at least one non-communicable health condition or violence exposure (n=364, 81.8%), and over half (n=278, 62.4%) reported co-occurring exposures. One-fifth reported FAU (n=90; 20.2%) and one-tenth (n=49; 11%) major depression. In logistic regression models including all two-way product terms, adjusted for sociodemographics, we found (a) multiplicative interaction for joint effects of FAU and IPV (adjusted OR (aOR)=4.81, 95% CI: 1.32 to 17.52) on multiple sex partners, and (b) multiplicative interaction for joint effects of FAU and IPV (aOR=3.72, 95% CI: 1.42 to 9.74), and YAV and depression (aOR=7.13, 95% CI: 1.34 to 37.50), on transactional sex. Conclusion Findings signal the importance of addressing the SAVA syndemic among urban refugee youth in Uganda. Synergistic interactions indicate that addressing FAU, depression or violence may concomitantly reduce HIV vulnerability with urban refugee youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment & Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Moses Okumu
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA.,School of Social Science, Uganda Christian University, Mukono, Uganda
| | - Kalonde Malama
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Simon Mwima
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA.,National AIDS Coordinating Program, Uganda Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Hakiza
- Young African Refugees for Integral Development, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Uwase Mimy Kiera
- Young African Refugees for Integral Development, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Kyambadde
- National AIDS Coordinating Program, Uganda Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda.,Most At Risk Population Initiative (MARPI), Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
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18
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Duby Z, Bunce B, Fowler C, Bergh K, Jonas K, Dietrich JJ, Govindasamy D, Kuo C, Mathews C. Intersections between COVID-19 and socio-economic mental health stressors in the lives of South African adolescent girls and young women. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:23. [PMID: 35346316 PMCID: PMC8959551 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00457-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contexts where poverty and mental health stressors already interact to negatively impact the most vulnerable populations, COVID-19 is likely to have worsened these impacts. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in South Africa already faced intersecting mental health stressors and vulnerabilities. It is critical to understand how additional challenges brought on by COVID-19 have intersected with existing vulnerabilities and mental health risks AGYW faced, particularly given the intersections between psychological distress and increased risk behaviours that impact sexual and reproductive health. We aimed to examine socio-economic and mental health impacts of COVID-19 on South African AGYW in order to understand how additional challenges brought on by COVID-19 have intersected with existing challenges, compounding AGYW vulnerabilities. METHODS Using qualitative and quantitative methods, framed by the syndemic theory, we examined the intersections between mental health and the COVID-19 epidemic amongst AGYW in six districts of South Africa characterised by high rates of HIV, teenage pregnancy and socio-economic hardship. Between November 2020 and March 2021 we conducted a cross-sectional telephone survey with 515 AGYW, and in-depth interviews with 50 AGYW, aged 15 to 24 years. RESULTS Our findings reveal how COVID-19 restrictions led to increased experiences of stress and anxiety. Poor mental health was compounded by strained family relationships, increased fear of domestic violence, household unemployment, economic stress and food insecurity. Respondents described feelings of boredom, frustration, isolation, loneliness, fear and hopelessness. However, despite the multitude of challenges, some AGYW articulated emotional resilience, describing ways in which they coped and retained hope. CONCLUSION Various psycho-social risk factors already disproportionally affect the mental health of AGYW in these communities; the COVID-19 pandemic intersects with these pre-existing social and environmental factors. Understanding strategies AGYW have used to positively cope with the uncertainty of COVID-19 amongst an array of pre-existing mental health stressors, is key in informing efforts to respond to their needs. Multisectoral interventions are needed to address the drivers of poor mental health among AGYW, and bolster healthy coping mechanisms; interventions seeking to mitigate the mental health impacts on this vulnerable population need to be responsive to the unpredictable pandemic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Duby
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, Parow Valley, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa. .,Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences in the School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Brittany Bunce
- grid.11835.3e0000 0004 1936 9262Institute for Global Sustainable Development, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Chantal Fowler
- grid.7836.a0000 0004 1937 1151Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences in the School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kate Bergh
- grid.415021.30000 0000 9155 0024Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, Parow Valley, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kim Jonas
- grid.415021.30000 0000 9155 0024Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, Parow Valley, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Janan Janine Dietrich
- grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU) and African Social Sciences Unit of Research and Evaluation (ASSURE), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Darshini Govindasamy
- grid.415021.30000 0000 9155 0024Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, Parow Valley, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Caroline Kuo
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
| | - Catherine Mathews
- grid.415021.30000 0000 9155 0024Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, Parow Valley, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa ,grid.7836.a0000 0004 1937 1151Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences in the School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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19
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Logie CH, Coelho M, Kohrt B, Tsai AC, Mendenhall E. Context, COVID-19 and comorbidities: exploring emergent directions in syndemics and HIV research. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2022; 17:46-54. [PMID: 35081555 PMCID: PMC11045292 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to identify themes across articles that aimed to explore HIV-related syndemics in 2020 and 2021 and to discuss their implications for research on syndemics. RECENT FINDINGS We identified 189 articles on syndemics between 2020 and 2021. Key themes across studies included COVID-19; mental health and psychosocial challenges; substance use; socio-structural factors; protective factors; and methodological approaches. COVID-19's implications for HIV syndemic research were discussed. Mental health and substance use research largely examined linkages with sexual practices or reduced HIV care retention. Researchers examined associations between socio-structural variables (e.g. poverty) and elevated HIV exposure, reduced HIV testing and poorer health. Concepts of water insecurity and 'ecosyndemics' were also raised, as was the importance of attending to noncommunicable diseases and comorbidities. Most studies did not assess interactions between health conditions, signalling the need for methodological grounding in the foundational concepts of syndemic theory. SUMMARY Most studies recommended that HIV prevention and care research attend to the interplay between poor mental health, substance use and multidimensional violence. Increased attention to structural factors, particularly exacerbated poverty in the COVID-19 pandemic, is required. Research can identify protective factors to harness to advance HIV prevention and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment & Health, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Madelaine Coelho
- Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brandon Kohrt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Alexander C Tsai
- Center for Global Health and Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emily Mendenhall
- Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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20
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Mutahi J, Larsen A, Cuijpers P, Peterson SS, Unutzer J, McKay M, John-Stewart G, Jewell T, Kinuthia J, Gohar F, Lai J, Wamalwa D, Gachuno O, Kumar M. Mental health problems and service gaps experienced by pregnant adolescents and young women in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 44:101289. [PMID: 35198916 PMCID: PMC8851289 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant adolescent girls and young women (AGYW, aged 12-24 years) are at high risk for mental health problems, particularly in the Sub-Saharan African (SSA) region. METHODS We performed a systematic review of mental health studies among pregnant AGYW in SSA published between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2020 in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Global Index Medicus following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD42021230980). We used Bronfenbrenner's bioecological model to frame and synthesize results from included studies. FINDINGS Our search yielded 945 articles from which 18 studies were included (N = 8 quantitative, N = 9 qualitative, N = 1 case report). The most frequently studied mental health problem was depression (N = 9 studies); the most frequently utilized measurement tool was the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (N = 3). Studies reported life course factors, individual, microsystem, exosystem, macrosystem, and chronosystem-level factors associated with mental health problems. Gaps in mental health service delivery for pregnant AGYW included lack of confidentiality, judgmental healthcare worker attitudes, and lack of services tailored to their unique needs. INTERPRETATION Gaps remain in research and services for mental health among pregnant AGYW in SSA. Integration of mental health services within school, community, and healthcare settings that are tailored to pregnant AGYW could strengthen health systems within SSA. FUNDING Author contributions were supported by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (F31HD101149 to AL) and the Fogarty International Center (K43TW010716 to MK). The funding agencies had no role in the writing of the manuscript or the decision to submit it for publication. The project itself was not funded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Mutahi
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, 00100 (19676), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anna Larsen
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherland
| | | | - Jurgen Unutzer
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Mary McKay
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Teresa Jewell
- University of Washington Libraries, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - John Kinuthia
- Research and Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Fatima Gohar
- United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), New York, NY, United States
| | - Joanna Lai
- United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), New York, NY, United States
| | - Dalton Wamalwa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Onesmus Gachuno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Manasi Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, 00100 (19676), Nairobi, Kenya
- Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University, Kenya
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21
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Steventon Roberts K, Smith C, Toska E, Cluver L, Haag K, Wittesaele C, Langwenya N, Jochim J, Saal W, Shenderovich Y, Sherr L. Risk factors for poor mental health among adolescent mothers in South Africa. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2022; 27:67-84. [PMID: 36154770 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2022.2124295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In South Africa, high rates of adolescent pregnancy and HIV pose prominent public health challenges with potential implications for mental wellbeing. It is important to understand risk factors for mental health difficulties among adolescent mothers affected by HIV. This study aims to identify the prevalence of likely common mental disorder among adolescent mothers (both living with and not living with HIV) and explores hypothesised risk factors for likely common mental disorder. Cross-sectional data from adolescent mothers (10-19 years; n=1002) utilised within these analyses are drawn from a cohort of young mothers residing in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. All mothers completed a detailed questionnaire consisting of standardised measures of sociodemographic characteristics, mental health, and hypothesised risk factors. Logistic regression models were utilised to explore associations between hypothesised risk factors and likely common mental disorder. Risk factors were clustered within a hypothesised socioecological framework and entered into models using a stepwise sequential approach. Interaction effects with maternal HIV status were additionally explored. The prevalence of likely common mental disorder among adolescent mothers was 12.6%. Adolescent mothers living with HIV were more likely to report likely common mental disorder compared to adolescent mothers not living with HIV (16.2% vs 11.2%, X2=4.41, p=0.04). Factors associated with likely common mental disorder were any abuse exposure (OR=2.54 [95%CI:1.20-5.40], p=0.01), a lack of perceived social support (OR=4.09 [95%CI:2.48-6.74], p=<0.0001), and community violence exposure (OR=2.09 [95%CI:1.33-3.27], p=0.001). There was limited evidence of interaction effects between risk factors, and maternal HIV status. Violence exposure and a lack of perceived support are major risk factors for poor mental health among adolescent mothers in South Africa. Violence prevention interventions and social support may help to reduce risk. Identified risk factors spanning individual, interpersonal, and community levels have the potential to impact adolescent maternal mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Steventon Roberts
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Colette Smith
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | | | - Camille Wittesaele
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Nontokozo Langwenya
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Janina Jochim
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Wylene Saal
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Yulia Shenderovich
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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22
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Kumar M, Chu W, Gellatly R, Wambua GN, Becker KD, Chorpita BF. Identified needs of peripartum adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa from 2013 to 2021: a mapping of domains for strengthening psychosocial interventions. Curr Opin Psychol 2021; 45:101291. [PMID: 35016086 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.12.003] [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: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent pregnancy and early motherhood pose significant socioeconomic and health risks in Sub-Saharan Africa, leading to considerable morbidity and mortality. To learn more about the needs of this population, we reviewed 24 articles featuring 21 samples covering 12,490 adolescents from 14 countries. Our coding revealed that adolescent mothers were studied more (85.7% of samples) than pregnant adolescents (61.9%). We summarized needs as per six categories. Resource needs were most prevalent, reported by 100% of samples, followed by ecology (85.7%), mental health (76.2%), medical (61.9%), other (61.9%), and education (33.3%). The most frequently reported resource needs were low income and unemployment. Low social support, low family functioning, and exposure to negative cultural norms were ecological needs prevalent in most samples. Among mental health concerns, depression was the most commonly reported problem, whereas other problems, such as anxiety, substance use, and suicidality, were reported much less frequently. HIV-positive status was the most frequently reported medical concern. Intervention developers should consider the range of challenges when designing psychosocial services for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasi Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Wendy Chu
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, USA
| | - Resham Gellatly
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Grace Nduku Wambua
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Clinical Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Netherlands
| | | | - Bruce F Chorpita
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
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23
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The prevalence of unintended pregnancy and its association with HIV status among pregnant women in South Africa, a national antenatal survey, 2019. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23740. [PMID: 34887462 PMCID: PMC8660789 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03096-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
To describe the prevalence of unintended pregnancy and its association with HIV status among pregnant women in South Africa. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between October and mid-November 2019 among pregnant women aged 15–49 years in 1589 selected public antenatal care facilities. Pregnancy intention was assessed using two questions from the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy. Survey logistic regression examined factors associated with unintended pregnancy. Among 34,946 participants, 51.6% had an unintended pregnancy. On multivariable analysis, the odds of unintended pregnancy was higher among women who knew their HIV-positive status before pregnancy but initiated treatment after the first antenatal visit (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.5 [95% confidence interval (CI):1.2–1.8]), women who initiated treatment before pregnancy (aOR, 1.3 [95% CI:1.2–1.3]), and women with a new HIV diagnosis during pregnancy (aOR, 1.2 [95% CI:1.1–1.3]) compared to HIV-negative women. Women who were single, in a non-cohabiting or a cohabiting relationship, and young women (15–24 years) had significantly higher risk of unintended pregnancy compared to married women and women aged 30–49 years, respectively. A comprehensive approach, including regular assessment of HIV clients’ pregnancy intention, and adolescent and youth-friendly reproductive health services could help prevent unintended pregnancy.
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24
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Donenberg G, Merrill KG, Atujuna M, Emerson E, Bray B, Bekker LG. Mental health outcomes of a pilot 2-arm randomized controlled trial of a HIV-prevention program for South African adolescent girls and young women and their female caregivers. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2189. [PMID: 34847908 PMCID: PMC8630514 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12010-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background South African adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) report significant mental distress and sexual and reproductive health concerns. Mental health problems and trauma symptoms are consistently associated with sexual and reproductive health behavior. Despite their intersection, few interventions address them simultaneously or engage female caregivers (FC) as collaborators. This study presents findings from a pilot test of an empirically supported culturally adapted family-based HIV-prevention program, Informed Motivated Aware and Responsible Adolescents and Adults- South Africa (IMARA-SA), on AGYW anxiety, depression, and trauma. Methods Sixty 15–19-year-old AGYW (mean age = 17.1 years) and their FC from outside Cape Town were randomized to IMARA-SA or a health promotion control program. AGYW reported their anxiety using the GAD-7, depression using the PHQ-9, and trauma using the PC-PTSD-5 at baseline and follow-up (6–10 months post). Both interventions were delivered by Xhosa-speaking Black South African women in groups over 2 days for approximately 10 h. We examined intervention effects using zero-inflated negative binomial regression for anxiety, multinomial logistic regression for depression, and logistic regression for trauma. Results At baseline, groups did not differ in demographic characteristics but AGYW randomized to IMARA-SA had higher depression scores than controls (p = 0.04) and a greater proportion screened positive for PTSD (p = .07). Controlling for baseline mental health scores, AGYW who received IMARA-SA compared to controls had significantly fewer anxiety symptoms at follow-up (adjusted incidence rate ratio for count model = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.29–0.99, p = 0.05), were less likely to report at least one depressive symptom relative to no symptoms (relative risk ratio = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.05, 0.95, p = 0.04), and were less likely to report symptoms of PTSD relative to no symptoms, but this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions Mental health is implicated in risky sexual behavior, and reducing emotional distress can mitigate exposure to poor sexual and reproductive health outcomes. This pilot study yielded promising findings for the mental health impact of IMARA-SA, justifying replication in a larger randomized trial. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Number NCT04758390, accepted 17/02/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geri Donenberg
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 818 S. Wolcott, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Katherine G Merrill
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 818 S. Wolcott, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | | | - Erin Emerson
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 818 S. Wolcott, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Bethany Bray
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 818 S. Wolcott, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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25
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Myers B, Browne FA, Carney T, Kline T, Bonner CP, Wechsberg WM. The Association of Recurrent and Multiple Types of Abuse with Adverse Mental Health, Substance Use, and Sexual Health Outcomes among Out-of-School Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Cape Town, South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11403. [PMID: 34769920 PMCID: PMC8582840 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Although physical and sexual abuse exposure is a well-established risk for poor health, the dimensions of abuse associated with health among socially vulnerable adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) remain underexamined. This article describes associations between combinations of abuse type and timing with mental health, substance use, and sexual risk outcomes among a sample of 499 AGYW (aged 16 to 19) who had left school early and were recruited for a cluster randomized trial in Cape Town, South Africa. Approximately one-third (33.5%; 95% CI: 28.7, 38.6) of participants reported lifetime abuse. Exposure to more than one type of abuse was associated with increased risk of depression (β = 3.92; 95% CI: 2.25, 5.59) and anxiety (β = 3.70; 95% CI: 2.11, 5.28), and greater odds of polydrug use (OR = 2.10; 95% CI: 1.02, 4.34) and substance-impaired sex (OR = 2.17; 95% CI: 1.31, 3.86). Exposure to multiple types of abuse during childhood/early adolescence and again in late adolescence was associated with increased risk of depression (β = 4.65; 95% CI: 3.15, 6.14), anxiety (β = 4.35; 95% CI: 2.70, 6.02), and polydrug use (OR = 2.37; 95% CI: 1.03, 5.73). Findings underscore the need for trauma-informed interventions that reduce mental health, substance use, and sexual risks among AGYW who have experienced multiple forms of abuse and recurrent abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Myers
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Abuse Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, P.O. Box 19070, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
- Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
| | - Felicia A Browne
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Tara Carney
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Abuse Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, P.O. Box 19070, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
- Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
| | - Tracy Kline
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | | | - Wendee M Wechsberg
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Maternal and Child Health Department, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27529, USA
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27703, USA
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26
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Roberts KJ, Smith C, Cluver L, Toska E, Sherr L. Understanding Mental Health in the Context of Adolescent Pregnancy and HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review Identifying a Critical Evidence Gap. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:2094-2107. [PMID: 33452658 PMCID: PMC7810185 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03138-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent (10-19 years) mental health remains an overlooked global health issue. Rates of adolescent pregnancy within sub-Saharan Africa are some of the highest in the world and occur at the epicentre of the global HIV epidemic. Both experiencing adolescent pregnancy and living with HIV have been found to be associated with adverse mental health outcomes, when investigated separately. Poor mental health may have implications for both parent and child. The literature regarding mental health within groups experiencing both HIV and adolescent pregnancy is yet to be summarised. This systematic review sought to identify (1) the prevalence/occurrence of common mental disorder amongst adolescents who are living with HIV and have experienced pregnancy, (inclusive of adolescent fathers) in sub-Saharan Africa (2) risk and protective factors for common mental disorder among this group, and (3) interventions (prevention/treatment) for common mental disorder among this group. A systematic search of electronic databases using pre-defined search terms, supplemented by hand-searching, was undertaken in September 2020. One author and an independent researcher completed a title and abstract screening of results from the search. A full-text search of all seemingly relevant manuscripts (both quantitative and qualitative) was undertaken and data extracted using pre-determined criteria. A narrative synthesis of included studies is provided. Quality and risk of bias within included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. A systematic keyword search of databases and follow-up hand searching identified 2287 unique records. Of these, thirty-eight full-text quantitative records and seven full-text qualitative records were assessed for eligibility. No qualitative records met the eligibility criteria for inclusion within the review. One quantitative record was identified for inclusion. This study reported on depressive symptomology amongst 14 pregnant adolescents living with HIV in Kenya, identifying a prevalence of 92.9%. This included study did not meet the high methodological quality of this review. No studies were identified reporting on risk and protective factors for common mental disorder, and no studies were found identifying any specific interventions for common mental disorder for this group, either for prevention or for treatment. The limited data identified within this review provides no good quality evidence relating to the prevalence of common mental disorder among adolescents living with HIV who have experienced pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa. No data was available relating to risk and protective factors or interventions for psychological distress amongst this group. This systematic review identifies a need for rigorous evidence regarding the mental health of pregnant and parenting adolescents living with HIV, and calls for granular interrogation of existing data to further our understanding of the needs of this group. The absence of research on this topic (both quantitative and qualitative) is a critical evidence gap, limiting evidence-based policy and programming responses, as well as regional development opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Colette Smith
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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