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Campbell LS, Knight L, Masquillier C, Wouters E. Including the Household: Individual, Community and Household Factors Affecting Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence After ART Initiation in Cape Town, South Africa. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04447-3. [PMID: 39090458 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04447-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is crucial for health outcomes of people living with HIV (PLHIV), influenced by a complex interplay of individual, community, and household factors. This article focuses on the influence of household factors, as well as individual and community factors, on ART adherence among PLHIV in Cape Town who have recently initiated ART. Baseline data for a cluster-randomized controlled trial were collected from 316 PLHIV in 12 districts in Cape Town between 6th May 2021 and 22nd May 2022. Zero-inflated Poisson models, with cluster-adjusted standard errors, were used to analyse the association between individual, household, and community factors and ART adherence measures. At the household-level, household support was associated with both better self-rated adherence (exp(β) = 0.81, z = - 4.68, p < 0.001) and fewer days when pills were missed (exp(β) = 0.65, z = - 2.92, p = 0.003). Psychological violence (exp(β) = 1.37, z = 1.97, p = 0.05) and higher household asset scores (exp(β) = 1.29, z = - 2.83, p = 0.05) were weakly associated with poorer ART adherence. At the individual-level, male gender (exp(β) = 1.37, z = 3.95, p < 0.001) and reinitiating ART (exp(β) = 1.35, z = 3.64, p < 0.001) were associated with worse self-rated ART adherence; higher education levels (exp(β) = 0.30 times, z = - 3.75, p < 0.001) and better HIV knowledge (exp(β) = 0.28, z = - 2.83, p = 0.005) were associated with fewer days where pills were missed. At the community-level, community stigma was associated with worse self-rated ART adherence (exp(β) = 1.24, z = 3.01, p = 0.003). When designing interventions to improve ART adherence, household, individual and community factors should all be considered, particularly in addressing gender-based disparities, reducing stigma, tackling violence, and enhancing household support.Clinical Trial Number: Pan African Clinical Trial Registry, PACTR201906476052236. Registered on 24 June 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Campbell
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Lucia Knight
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Caroline Masquillier
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
- Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Edwin Wouters
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
- Centre for Health Systems Research & Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Janek SE, Hatoum S, Ledbetter L, Relf MV. Understanding the Stigma Experience of Men Living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Qualitative Meta-synthesis. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:2500-2533. [PMID: 38777917 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04329-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Men living with HIV (MLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa experience poor health outcomes and increased AIDS-related deaths due to stigma influencing testing and treatment uptake and adherence. PRISMA 2020 was used to report a meta-synthesis of the stigma experiences of MLWH in SSA. With the help of an expert librarian, a search of six databases was formulated and performed to examine the available qualitative and mixed method studies with qualitative results relevant to the research question. Studies focused on adult men living with HIV, with five studies specifically examining the HIV experience of men who have sex with men. Study themes were synthesized to describe MLWH's perceived, internalized, anticipated, enacted, and intersectional stigma experiences. Most studies included masculinity as a key theme that affected both testing and treatment adherence upon diagnosis. Future research is needed to better understand subpopulations, such as men who have sex with men living with HIV, and what interventions may be beneficial to mitigate the disparities among MLWH in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Janek
- School of Nursing, Duke University, 307 Trent Drive, Box 3322, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | | | | | - Michael V Relf
- School of Nursing, Duke University, 307 Trent Drive, Box 3322, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA.
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Hu S, Jing F, Fan C, Dai Y, Xie Y, Zhou Y, Lv H, He X, Wu D, Tucker JD, Tang W. Social network strategies to distribute HIV self-testing kits: a global systematic review and network meta-analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26342. [PMID: 39048927 PMCID: PMC11269052 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Social network strategies, in which social networks are utilized to influence individuals or communities, are increasingly being used to deliver human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) interventions to key populations. We summarized and critically assessed existing research on the effectiveness of social network strategies in promoting HIV self-testing (HIVST). METHODS Using search terms related to social network interventions and HIVST, we searched five databases for trials published between 1st January 2010 and 30th June 2023. Outcomes included uptake of HIV testing, HIV prevalence and linkage to antiretroviral therapy (ART) or HIV care. We used network meta-analysis to assess the uptake of HIV testing through social network strategies compared with control methods. A pairwise meta-analysis of studies with a comparison arm that reported outcomes was performed to assess relative risks (RR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Among the 4496 manuscripts identified, 39 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, including one quasi-experimental study, 22 randomized controlled trials and 16 observational studies. Networks HIVST testing was organized by peers (distributed to known peers, 15 studies), partners (distributed to their sexual partners, 16 studies) and peer educators (distributed to unknown peers, 8 studies). Among social networks, simulating the possibilities of ranking position, peer distribution had the highest uptake of HIV testing (84% probability), followed by partner distribution (80% probability) and peer educator distribution (74% probability). Pairwise meta-analysis showed that peer distribution (RR 2.29, 95% CI 1.54-3.39, 5 studies) and partner distribution (RR 1.76, 95% CI 1.50-2.07, 10 studies) also increased the probability of detecting HIV reactivity during testing within the key population when compared to the control. DISCUSSION All of the three social network distribution strategies enhanced the uptake of HIV testing compared to standard facility-based testing. Linkage to ART or HIV care remained comparable to facility-based testing across the three HIVST distribution strategies. CONCLUSIONS Network-based HIVST distribution is considered effective in augmenting HIV testing rates and reaching marginalized populations compared to facility-based testing. These strategies can be integrated with the existing HIV care services, to fill the testing gap among key populations globally. PROSPERO NUMBER CRD42022361782.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyue Hu
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- School of Public HealthSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
| | - Fengshi Jing
- Faculty of Data ScienceCity University of MacauTaipaChina
| | - Chengxin Fan
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
- School of Public HealthNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Yifan Dai
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- School of Public HealthSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
| | - Yewei Xie
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingapore
| | - Yi Zhou
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and PreventionZhuhaiChina
| | - Hang Lv
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and PreventionZhuhaiChina
| | - Xi He
- Zhuhai Xutong Voluntary Services CenterZhuhaiChina
| | - Dan Wu
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
- School of Public HealthNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Joseph D. Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
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Rodríguez-Prat A, Pergolizzi D, Crespo I, Monforte-Royo C. Experiences of Isolation among Patients Hospitalized during an Infectious Disease Outbreak: A Systematic Review and Meta-Ethnography. Behav Med 2024; 50:195-210. [PMID: 37343055 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2023.2214717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Hospital isolation is common for people during infectious disease outbreaks. Anxiety, stress, depression and other psychosocial outcomes have been reported due to these measures. However, there is scarce evidence about the experience of being isolated and about best practices for empathic clinical care in these circumstances. The aim of this study was to explore the experience of isolation on patients hospitalized during an infectious disease outbreak. A systematic review and meta-ethnography was carried out. A search strategy was applied to the PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases on April 14, 2021 and again May 2, 2022. Data synthesis was conducted using Noblit and Hare's method of qualitative thematic synthesis. Twenty reports were included in this review: 16 qualitative, two mixed-methods (only the qualitative part was analyzed), plus 2 personal view pieces. They described the experiences of a total of 337 people hospitalized and isolated with an infectious disease. Following analysis and coding of data, four themes emerged: 1) Feelings triggered by isolation; 2) Coping strategies; 3) Connection/disconnection; 4) Factors that influence the experience of isolation. Despite a sensitive search strategy, limited studies represent patient experiences using qualitative methods. The experience of isolation among patients hospitalized during an outbreak is characterized by fear, perceived stigma, and a sense of disconnection from others and the outside world due to a lack of information. Fostering a person-centered care model could help hospitalized patients develop adaptive mechanisms that minimize the impact of isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Denise Pergolizzi
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iris Crespo
- Department of Psychology; School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Monforte-Royo
- Department of Nursing; School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona
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Yang F, Zhao P, Tang W, Tucker JD, Xu W, Wang C. HIV self-testing adoption and post-test linkage to care among men who have sex with men in China: a nationwide cross-sectional survey. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:532. [PMID: 38802750 PMCID: PMC11129403 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09419-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV self-testing (HIVST) was recommended to improve HIV testing services. China initiated some of the first HIVST pilots in the world, providing a unique opportunity for implementation research. We aim to investigate HIVST adoption and its following linkage to care among Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM). METHODS Data were collected using an online questionnaire distributed on major social media platforms in 2018, one year after HIVST was officially endorsed and allowed for sale. MSM who were at least 16 years old, assigned as male at birth, and ever tested for HIV were eligible. Primary outcome, adoption was defined as ever use of HIVST. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were performed to explore the association between HIVST adoption and sociodemographic and behavioral factors. Linkage to care was also described via the following sequential events as indicators: (1) receiving result after recent test (2), seeking care from healthcare facility if test result was positive or indeterminate, and (3) delayed time before seeking care. RESULTS A total of 540 participants were included with an average age of 27.4 ± 6.6. Most were never married (87.4%) and half completed college (52.2%). Overall, 75.2% had adopted HIVST. Self-test kits were commonly obtained from community-based organizations (54.4%) and from online (46.6%). HIVST adoption was positively associated with having college or higher education (OR = 1.66, 95%CI: 1.07-2.57), and negatively associated with age older than 30 (AOR = 0.52, 95%CI: 0.32-0.84). Adoption was not associated with other socio-demographic or behavioral factors. After receiving HIV-positive or indeterminate results, 25/25 of HIVST adopters sought care while 3 out of 7 (42.9%) non-adopters sought care (p < 0.001). Delays before seeking care were not significantly different between HIVST adopters compared to non-adopters (P = 0.366). CONCLUSION Many MSM adopted HIVST shortly after its launch. Our findings suggested that HIVST linkage to care is promising among MSM in China. Integration of HIVST with other essential sexual health services is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Institute of Population Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Peizhen Zhao
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiming Tang
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Wenqian Xu
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China.
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Nduhukyire L, Semitala FC, Mutanda JN, Muramuzi D, Ipola PA, Kabagenyi A, Nangendo J, Namutundu J. Prevalence, Associated Factors, Barriers and Facilitators for Oral HIV Self-Testing among Partners of Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Clinics in Wakiso, Uganda. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4378165. [PMID: 38798443 PMCID: PMC11118680 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4378165/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Background Oral HIV self-testing (HIVST) among men is relatively low and still inadequate in Sub-Saharan Africa. Delivering HIVST kits by pregnant women attending antenatal care to their partners is a promising strategy for increasing HIV testing among men. However, even amidst the interventions, most men do not know their HIV status. This study, aimed to determine the proportion of partners who received and used oral HIVST kits delivered by pregnant women, associated factors, barriers, and facilitators for uptake among partners. Methods We conducted an exploratory sequential mixed methods study among 380 sampled partners. Lists of partners in the HIVST log books whose women picked an HIVST kit were obtained and systematic random sampling was done to obtain participants. 14 male partners were purposively selected for in-depth interviews (IDIs) to identify barriers and facilitators. We used modified poison regression to determine the association between oral HIVST and independent variables. We used an inductive analysis for the qualitative analysis. Results Out of 380 participants, 260(68.4%) received an oral HIVST kit from their pregnant women, and 215(82.7%) used the kit for HIVST. Oral HIVST was associated with; Information Education and Communication (CPR = 1.64, 95%CI 1.48-1.82), being reached at home (CPR = 1.04, 95%CI 1.01-1.08), and being aware of the woman's HIV status (CPR = 1.04, 95%CI 0.99-1.09). In-depth results identified barriers to uptake as, lack of trust in the HIVST kit results, fear of test outcome in the presence of the partner and inclination that the HIV status of their women is the same as theirs, and facilitators included convenience, ease to use, prior awareness of their HIV status, and fear of relationship consequences and breakup. Conclusion Delivery of oral HIVST kits to men through pregnant women reached a high number of men and achieved a high uptake. Accessing information, education, communication and convenience nature were the major reasons for uptake among men who received the Oral HIVST kit as trust issues of the kit affected use among partners. Scaling up the delivery of oral HIVST kits at all departments of the hospital through women seeking health services is paramount to support HIV screening among men to reach the UNAIDS 95 strategy.
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Adeagbo OA, Badru OA, Nkfusai CN, Bain LE. Effectiveness of Linkage to Care and Prevention Interventions Following HIV Self-Testing: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1314-1326. [PMID: 37668817 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04162-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Over 38.4 million people were living with HIV globally in 2021. The HIV continuum includes HIV testing, diagnosis, linkage to combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), and retention in care. An important innovation in the HIV care continuum is HIV self-testing. There is a paucity of evidence regarding the effectiveness of interventions aimed at linking self-testers to care and prevention, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). To bridge this gap, we carried out a global systematic review and meta-analysis to ascertain the effectiveness of interventions post-HIV self-testing regarding: (1) linkage to care or ART, (2) linkage to PrEP, and (3) the impact of HIV self-test (HIVST) interventions on sexual behaviors. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, CINAHL Plus (EBSCO), MEDLINE (Ovid), Google Scholar, and ResearchGate. We included only published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experiment that compared HIVST to the standard of care (SoC). Studies with sufficient data were aggregated using meta-analysis on RevMan 5.4 at a 95% confidence interval. Cochrane's Q test was used to assess heterogeneity between the studies, while Higgins and Thompson's I2 was used to quantify heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were conducted to identify the source of heterogeneity. Of the 2669 articles obtained from the databases, only 15 studies were eligible for this review, and eight were included in the final meta-analysis. Overall, linkage to care was similar between the HIVST arm and SoC (effect size: 0.92 [0.45-1.86]; I2: 51%; p: 0.04). In the population subgroup analysis, female sex workers (FSWs) in the HIVST arm were significantly linked to care compared to the SoC arm (effect size: 0.53 [0.30-0.94]; I2: 0%; p: 0.41). HIVST interventions did not significantly improve ART initiation in the HIVST arm compared to the SoC arm (effect size: 0.90 [0.45-1.79]; I2: 74%; p: < 0.001). We found that more male partners of women living with HIV in the SoC arm initiated PrEP compared to partners in the HIVST arm. The meta-analysis showed no difference between the HIVST and SoC arm regarding the number of clients (effect size: - 0.66 [1.35-0.02]; I2: 64%; p: 0.09) and non-clients FSWs see per night (effect size: - 1.45 [- 1.45 to 1.38]; I2: 93%; p: < 0.001). HIVST did not reduce the use of condoms during insertive or receptive condomless anal intercourse among MSM. HIVST does not improve linkage to care in the general population but does among FSWs. HIVST intervention does not improve linkage to ART nor significantly stimulate healthy sexual behaviors among priority groups. The only RCT that linked HIVST to PrEP found that PrEP uptake was higher among partners of women living with HIV in the SoC arm than in the HIVST arm. More RCTs among priority groups are needed, and the influence of HIVST on PrEP uptake should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwafemi Atanda Adeagbo
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA
- Department of Sociology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Oluwaseun Abdulganiyu Badru
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA.
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Sokoto State, Nigeria.
- Institute of Human Virology, Abuja, Nigeria.
| | - Claude Ngwayu Nkfusai
- Department of Public Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Luchuo Engelbert Bain
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
- International Development Research Centre, Ottawa, Canada
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Mhando F, Nyankomo M, Hall C, Olughu K, Hlongwa M, Janson S, Idahosa LO, Hatcher G, Conserve DF. Digital Intervention Services to Promote HIV Self-Testing and Linkage to Care Services: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis-Global Trends and Future Directions. Public Health Rev 2024; 45:1606354. [PMID: 38434540 PMCID: PMC10904570 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2024.1606354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: The global burden of HIV remains a critical public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, home to over two-thirds of individuals living with HIV. HIV self-testing (HIVST) has emerged as a promising strategy endorsed by the World Health Organization to achieve UNAIDS targets. Despite its potential, challenges persist in linking self-testers to care post a positive result. Digital health interventions, including chatbots and mobile applications, offer innovative solutions to address this gap. However, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the collaboration and growth in the literature at the intersection of HIVST and digital interventions is lacking. Methods: The study employs a bibliometric approach, leveraging data from the Web of Science, to analyze the characteristics, citation pattern and content of 289 articles spanning 1992-2023. The analysis involves performance assessment, scientific collaboration analysis, science mapping, and content analysis. Key bibliometric indicators, such as annual growth rate, citation impact, and authorship patterns, are explored. Collaboration patterns among countries, institutions, and authors are elucidated, and thematic mapping provides insight into the key research themes. Results: The analysis reveals a dynamic and expanding field, with an annual scientific growth rate of 12.25%. Notable contributions come from diverse sources, including North America, Europe, and Africa. High-impact journals such as JMIR mHealth and uHealth play a crucial role in disseminating research findings. African authors, including Lebelonyane R, Ford N, and Lockman S, feature prominently, reflecting a positive trend in diverse authorship. Co-citation analysis highlights influential manuscripts, with systematic reviews dominating the top-cited articles. Collaboration analysis underscores strategic partnerships globally, particularly involving the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Conclusion: This bibliometrics analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the digital health landscape in HIVST and linkage to care. It identifies key contributors, high-impact journals, and collaborative networks. The thematic map reveals nuanced research domains, including alcohol dependence, men's health, outcomes, and user acceptance. The findings offer insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, guiding future directions in the evolving intersection of HIVST and digital health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Mhando
- Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo Research and Training Centre, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Marwa Nyankomo
- Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Christa Hall
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Kelia Olughu
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Public Health, Societies and Belonging, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Samuel Janson
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Love O. Idahosa
- Department of Economics, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Genae Hatcher
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Donaldson F. Conserve
- Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
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Nangendo J, Wanyenze RK, Obeng-Amoako GO, Muwema M, Mukisa J, Okiring J, Kabami J, Karamagi CA, Semitala FC, Kalyango JN, Kamya MR, Katahoire AR. Health provider perspectives of Village Health Team-delivered oral HIV self-testing among men in Central Uganda: a qualitative evaluation using RE-AIM framework. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3816613. [PMID: 38343851 PMCID: PMC10854283 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3816613/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Background HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a practical and effective way to provide HIV testing services to at-risk and underserved populations, particularly men. Utilizing Village Health Teams (VHTs) could enhance community-based delivery of oral HIVST to reach the last un-tested individuals who may be at-risk of infection. However, little is known about what VHTs and facility-based healthcare workers think about facilitating oral HIVST and delivery of subsequent HIV services. We investigated the views of health providers on oral HIVST delivered by VHTs among men in rural communities in Central Uganda. Methods We conducted a qualitative study in Mpigi district, interviewing 27 health providers who facilitated oral HIV self-testing among men. The providers consisting of 15 VHTs and 12 facility-based health workers were purposively selected. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated to English for a hybrid inductive-deductive thematic analysis. We used the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) Implementation Science framework to generate and categorize open codes. Results In terms of reaching men with HIV testing services, the providers considered HIVST to be a fast and convenient method, which could boost HIV testing. However, they also had concerns about its accuracy. In terms of effectiveness, HIVST was perceived as a reliable, user-friendly, and efficient approach to HIV testing. However, it depended on the user's preference for testing algorithms. Regarding adoption, HIVST was considered to enhance autonomy, well-suited for use in the community, and offered opportunities for linkage and re-linkage into care. However, at times HIVST faced hesitance. As for Implementation, VHTs had various support roles in HIVST but had concerns about social insecurities and delays in seeking subsequent facility-based services after HIVST. Regarding Maintenance, providers recommended several ways to improve oral HIVST including; optimizing tracking of HIVST distribution and use, improving linkage and retention in care after HIVST, diversifying HIVST for combined HIV prevention packages and including more languages, broadening sensitization among potential HIVST users and health providers, differentiating distribution models, and prioritizing targeted HIVST efforts. Conclusion HIVST has the potential to increase testing rates and engagement of men in HIV services. However, for it to be implemented on a population-wide scale, continuous sensitization of potential users and health providers is necessary, along with streamlined structures for tracking kit distribution, use, and reporting of results. Further implementation research may be necessary to optimize the role of health providers in facilitating HIVST.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - John Mukisa
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences
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Kgotlaetsile K, Bogart LM, Phaladze N, Klein DJ, Mosepele M. Feasibility and Acceptability of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Self-Testing for Men of Middle-to-Upper Socioeconomic Status in Botswana: A Pilot Study at 4 Worksites in the Financial Sector. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofad661. [PMID: 38264095 PMCID: PMC10805380 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Although Botswana has made great progress in expanding human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing, men are less likely to be tested for HIV and test at a later stage compared with women. For Botswana to increase HIV testing coverage among men, HIV self-testing (HIVST) may be a promising supplement to standard, healthcare facility-based HIV testing. We conducted a pilot test of the feasibility and acceptability of HIVST for men of middle-to-upper socioeconomic status in Botswana. Methods Thirty-five men were recruited through 4 workplaces (banking sector). Wellness officers emailed all potentially eligible male employees about the opportunity to participate. Men were surveyed at baseline and follow-up on basic sociodemographic characteristics, HIV testing history, HIV stigma, use of the HIVST kit (at follow-up), and confirmatory testing and linkage to care if a preliminary positive result is obtained (at follow-up). Results All 35 men used the kit. The proportion who agreed with the statement that getting tested for HIV helps people feel better increased significantly from 80.7% at baseline to 100% at follow-up. In open-ended questions, men described the advantages of HIVST, including improved privacy and convenience, lowered HIV stigma, and enhanced control over testing. Concerns about HIVST included potential negative mental health consequences owing to not receiving pretest and posttest counseling, and not linking to care after a reactive result. Conclusions Results suggest that an intervention in which HIVST is discrete, private, and under men's control can help overcome stigma around HIV testing, resulting in a greater number of men tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keonayang Kgotlaetsile
- University of Botswana, Faculty of Medicine, & Boitekanelo College, Counselling Department, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Laura M Bogart
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - David J Klein
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana and Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Mosepele Mosepele
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana and Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
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Hu S, Jing F, Fan C, Dai Y, Xie Y, Zhou Y, Lv H, He X, Wu D, Tucker JD, Tang W. Social Network Strategies to Distribute HIV Self-testing Kits: A Global Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.11.05.23298135. [PMID: 37986939 PMCID: PMC10659482 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.05.23298135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Social network strategies, in which social networks are utilized to influence individuals or communities, are increasingly being used to deliver human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) interventions to key populations. We summarized and critically assessed existing research on the effectiveness of social network strategies in promoting HIV self-testing (HIVST). Methods Using search terms related to social network interventions and HIVST, we searched five databases for trials published between January 1st, 2010, and June 30th, 2023. Outcomes included uptake of HIV testing, HIV seroconversion, and linkage to antiretroviral therapy (ART) or HIV Care. We used network meta-analysis to assess the uptake of HIV testing through social network strategies compared with control methods. A pairwise meta-analysis of studies with a comparison arm that reported outcomes was performed to assess relative risks (RR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results and discussion Among the 3,745 manuscripts identified, 33 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, including one quasi-experimental study, 17 RCTs and 15 observational studies. Networks HIVST testing was organized by peers (distributed to known peers, 15 studies), partners (distributed to their sexual partners, 10 studies), and peer educators (distributed to unknown peers, 8 studies). The results showed that all of the three social network distribution strategies enhanced the uptake of HIV testing compared to standard facility-based testing. Among social networks, peer distribution had the highest uptake of HIV testing (79% probability, SUCRA 0.92), followed by partner distribution (72% probability, SUCRA 0.71), and peer educator distribution (66% probability, SUCRA 0.29). Pairwise meta-analysis showed that peer distribution (RR 2.29, 95% CI 1.54-3.39, 5 studies) and partner distribution (RR 1.45, 95% CI 1.05-2.02, 7 studies) also increased the probability of detecting HIV reactivity during testing within the key population when compared to the control. Linkage to ART or HIV Care remained comparable to facility-based testing across the three HIVST distribution strategies. Conclusions Network-based HIVST distribution is considered effective in augmenting HIV testing rates and reaching marginalized populations compared to facility-based testing. These strategies can be integrated with the existing HIV care services, to fill the testing gap among key populations globally.PROSPERO Number: CRD42022361782.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyue Hu
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fengshi Jing
- Faculty of Data Science, City University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Chengxin Fan
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yifan Dai
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yewei Xie
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Yi Zhou
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Hang Lv
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xi He
- Zhuhai Xutong Voluntary Services Center, Zhuhai, China
| | - Dan Wu
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joseph D. Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Hlongwa M, Moyo E, Dzinamarira T. Approaches for improving linkage to HIV care among HIV self-testing individuals in sub-Saharan Africa. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012664. [PMID: 37451688 PMCID: PMC10351227 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Public Health, Societies and Belonging, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Enos Moyo
- Medical Centre Oshakati, Oshakati, Namibia
| | - Tafadzwa Dzinamarira
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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