1
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Seyedroudbari S, Ghadimi F, Grady G, Uzosike O, Nkwihoreze H, Jemmott JB, Momplaisir F. Assessing Structural Racism and Discrimination Along the Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Continuum: A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04387-y. [PMID: 38851649 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04387-y] [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: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Structural racism and discrimination (SRD) is deeply embedded across U.S. healthcare institutions, but its impact on health outcomes is challenging to assess. The purpose of this systematic literature review is to understand the impact of SRD on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care continuum outcomes across U.S. populations who could benefit from HIV prevention. Guided by PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of the published literature up to September 2023 using PubMed and PsycInfo and included peer-reviewed articles meeting inclusion criteria. At least two authors independently screened studies, performed quality assessments, and abstracted data relevant to the topic. Exposure variables included race/ethnicity and any level of SRD (interpersonal, intra- and extra-organizational SRD). Outcomes consisted of any steps of the PrEP care continuum. A total of 66 studies met inclusion criteria and demonstrated the negative impact of SRD on the PrEP care continuum. At the interpersonal level, medical mistrust (i.e., lack of trust in medical organizations and professionals rooted from current or historical practices of discrimination) was negatively associated with almost all the steps across the PrEP care continuum: individuals with medical mistrust were less likely to have PrEP knowledge, adhere to PrEP care, and be retained in care. At the intra-organizational level, PrEP prescription was lower for Black patients due to healthcare provider perception of higher sex-risk behaviors. At the extra-organizational level, factors such as homelessness, low socioeconomic status, and incarceration were associated with decreased PrEP uptake. On the other hand, healthcare provider trust, higher patient education, and access to health insurance were associated with increased PrEP use and retention in care. In addition, analyses using race/ethnicity as an exposure did not consistently show associations with PrEP continuum outcomes. We found that SRD has a negative impact at all steps of the PrEP care continuum. Our results suggest that when assessing the effects of race/ethnicity without the context of SRD, certain relationships and associations are missed. Addressing multi-level barriers related to SRD are needed to reduce HIV transmission and promote health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatemeh Ghadimi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Hervette Nkwihoreze
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John B Jemmott
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Florence Momplaisir
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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2
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Liu Y, Liu X, Wei S, Cheng Z, Xian Y, Zhao Y, Ma J, Chen J, Chen Z, Yang J, Liu F, Yu M, Cui Z, Li C. Identifying patterns of sexual behaviors and PrEP uptake characteristics among MSM who were eligible for PrEP: A national cross-section study. J Virus Erad 2024; 10:100382. [PMID: 39015215 PMCID: PMC11250863 DOI: 10.1016/j.jve.2024.100382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at a high risk of HIV infection and should be offered effective preventive measures, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). However, PrEP uptake among eligible MSM was not as high as desired. Diverse research findings on how risky sexual behaviors affect PrEP uptake highlight the necessity for a comprehensive investigation. Understanding the interconnectedness of different sexual behaviors is crucial for evaluating their impact on PrEP uptake among eligible MSM. Using a proportional sampling method, we recruited 5877 MSM aged 16 years and above in mainland China according to PrEP eligibility criteria. Through latent class analysis (LCA), three distinct sexual behavior patterns were identified among eligible MSM. Demographic variances and PrEP uptake among the three distinct sexual behavior patterns were examined using chi-squared tests and multinomial logistic regression. LCA revealed three patterns: low-risk (4,815 MSM), medium-risk (516 MSM), and high-risk (546 MSM). MSM aged 25 years or older with a monthly income of ≥¥8,000 were more likely to be in the medium-risk group. Those from areas with high HIV prevalence and engaging as "top" in anal sex were more likely to be in the medium- and high-risk groups. The medium- and high-risk groups had a higher willingness, uptake, and adherence rates for PrEP than the low-risk group. LCA is effective in identifying diverse sexual behavior patterns among MSM, aiding targeted interventions to enhance PrEP uptake. Addressing demographic variations and tailoring interventions for specific risk groups are crucial for promoting PrEP dissemination and reducing HIV infection risk in eligible MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuan Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Siyue Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhaoyu Cheng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yidan Xian
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | | | - Jun Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiageng Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhongdan Chen
- HIV/Hepatitis/STI/TB, World Health Organization Representative Office in China, 401 Dongwai Diplomatic Building 23, DongzhimenwaiDajie, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100600, China
| | - Jie Yang
- “Shenlan” Public Health Counseling Service Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Fengli Liu
- “Shenlan” Public Health Counseling Service Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Maohe Yu
- STD & AIDS Control and Prevention Section, Tianjin Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology of Infectious Disease, Tianjin Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Tianjin, 300011, China
| | - Zhuang Cui
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environment, Nutrition and Public Health, Tianjin, China
| | - Changping Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environment, Nutrition and Public Health, Tianjin, China
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3
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Gibson LP, Kramer EB, Wrigley J, Probst M, Bryan AD. Gay community involvement and the sexual health behaviours of sexual minority men: a systematic review and directions for future research. Health Psychol Rev 2024; 18:299-318. [PMID: 37458157 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2023.2236180] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Considerable research has examined how involvement in gay-affiliated communities is associated with sexual health behaviours in sexual minority men (i.e., gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men), yet findings in this domain are often contradictory and inconclusive. This systematic review aimed to (a) synthesise the related empirical literature, and (b) identify potential factors driving inconsistent findings. Peer-reviewed publications were included if they contained quantitative data and at least one measure of the statistical association between gay community involvement and sexual health behaviour. The search strategy was implemented in six databases and returned 6,409 articles, of which 86 met the inclusion criteria. There was considerable heterogeneity in how gay community involvement was assessed across studies. Although gay community involvement was consistently associated with greater engagement in protective behaviours across studies, the association between gay community involvement and risk behaviours appeared to depend on how gay community involvement was conceptualised and measured (e.g., nightlife involvement vs. political activism). Findings emphasise a need for studies that employ validated measures that reflect the multidimensional nature of gay community involvement, as well as research designs better suited to address the causal effects of community involvement on HIV/STI transmission and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel P Gibson
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Emily B Kramer
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Jordan Wrigley
- Center for Data & Digital Scholarship, University Libraries, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Maxwell Probst
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Angela D Bryan
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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4
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Murray CH, Javanbakht M, Cho GD, Gorbach PM, Fulcher JA, Cooper ZD. Changes in Immune-Related Biomarkers and Endocannabinoids as a Function of Frequency of Cannabis Use in People Living With and Without HIV. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:e897-e906. [PMID: 37093248 PMCID: PMC11295663 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0287] [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] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cannabis use is common among people living with HIV (PLWH). Some observational studies of PLWH have linked cannabis use to lower immune markers; however, this is yet to be confirmed. In addition, whether HIV affects the endogenous cannabinoid system has not been studied. Our objective was to examine changes in immune-related biomarkers and endocannabinoids as a function of cannabis use frequency in people living with and without HIV. Materials and Methods: Data were obtained from a longitudinal study of men who have sex with men living in Los Angeles with, or at risk for, HIV. By design, half were PLWH. Those eligible for the parent study were willing and able to return for follow-up every 6 months. Those eligible for inclusion in this study reported varying levels of current cannabis use at follow-up. Specifically, one visit corresponded to a period of daily use and another to a period of infrequent use (weekly, monthly, or less than monthly). Banked serum from all eligible participants was analyzed for immune-related biomarkers, endocannabinoids, and paracannabinoids. Results: The analysis included 36 men, 19 of whom were PLWH. PLWH reported greater lifetime methamphetamine or amphetamine use (68% vs. 0%) and current cigarette use (55% vs. 20%) than people without HIV. Serum levels of HIV-related immune biomarkers including tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2; p=0.013) and CD27 (p=0.004) were greater in PLWH, alongside lower anandamide (AEA) (F1,34=5.337, p=0.027) and oleoylethanolamide (OEA) (F1,34=8.222, p=0.007) levels relative to people without HIV. Frequency of cannabis use did not impact the serum analytes in our study. Conclusions: Higher levels of TNFR2 and CD27 and lower levels of AEA and OEA in PLWH underscore the role of the TNF/TNFR superfamily in HIV, while highlighting a new role for the enzymatic activity of fatty acid amide hydrolase (the enzyme that hydrolyzes AEA and OEA) in HIV. Findings that cannabis frequency did not impact the immune phenotype may not generalize to other populations of PLWH. Additional work is required to further clarify the relationship between immune markers and endocannabinoids as a function of cannabis use frequency in PLWH. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT01201083.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor H. Murray
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Grace D. Cho
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Fulcher
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ziva D. Cooper
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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5
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Li MJ, Hassan A, Javanbakht M, Gorbach PM, Shoptaw SJ. Decision-making task performance and patterns of methamphetamine use in people assigned male at birth who have sex with men. Exp Clin Psychopharmacol 2024; 32:350-357. [PMID: 37917508 PMCID: PMC11063125 DOI: 10.1037/pha0000689] [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] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to determine whether performance on the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT), a simulation of risk-taking when faced with loss, is associated with greater frequency of methamphetamine (MA) use and challenges reducing or stopping MA use. The parent mSTUDY is a Los Angeles County-based longitudinal study of substance use and HIV risk in predominately Black/African American and Latinx people assigned male at birth who have sex with men. The IGT was offered for a limited timeframe to mSTUDY participants, of whom 192 consented to and completed this one-time task. Separate random intercept binary logistic regressions tested whether the IGT total score and subscore for Blocks 4 and 5 (last 40 card draws) were associated with the outcomes, testing positive for MA in urine and self-reported inability to control or cease MA use in the past 6 months. Separate random intercept ordered logistic regressions tested whether IGT total score and subscore were associated with self-reported frequency of MA use in past 6 months. Higher IGT subscores for Blocks 4 and 5 (lower risk-taking) were associated with lower odds of testing MA-positive (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 0.97, 95% CI [0.95, 0.99], p = .025) and less frequent MA use in the past 6 months (AOR = 0.96, 95% CI [0.94, 0.99], p = .006). Higher IGT total scores (lower risk-taking) were also associated with less frequent MA use (AOR = 0.99, 95% CI [0.97, 0.99], p = .038). Findings from this analysis suggest that IGT performance may be a useful indicator of MA use severity in nontreatment-seeking people. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Li
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Adiba Hassan
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Steven J Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
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6
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Merle JL, Zapata JP, Quieroz A, Zamantakis A, Sanuade O, Mustanski B, Smith JD. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among people who use drugs: a qualitative scoping review of implementation determinants and change methods. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2024; 19:46. [PMID: 38816889 PMCID: PMC11138081 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-024-00478-2] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Implementation of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV transmission is suboptimal in the United States, particularly among people who use drugs (PWUD). PrEP research among PWUD is scarce, and the factors that impact implementation are largely unknown. Therefore, we conducted a scoping review of implementation determinants (i.e., barriers and facilitators), as well as the change methods (implementation strategies and adjunctive interventions) that have been evaluated to increase PrEP implementation and use among PWUD. We identified 32 peer-reviewed articles assessing determinants and five that evaluated change methods. Determinants were coded using the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), which is an established framework to understand the multilevel barriers and facilitators associated with implementation. Findings indicate that most research was conducted among PrEP recipients (i.e., patients), focusing on awareness and willingness to use PrEP, with less focus on factors impacting clinicians and service delivery systems. Moreover, very few change methods have been evaluated to improve clinician adoption and adherence to CDC guidelines for PrEP provision and/or recipient uptake and adherence to PrEP. Future research is needed that focuses on factors impacting implementation from a clinician standpoint as well as innovative change methods to increase PrEP awareness, reach, adoption, and sustained adherence to guidelines. Implementation Science offers a wealth of knowledge to speed up the effort to end the HIV epidemic in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- James L Merle
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Juan P Zapata
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Artur Quieroz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alithia Zamantakis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Olutobi Sanuade
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Medical Social Sciences Department, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Justin D Smith
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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7
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Moran A, Javanbakht M, Mimiaga M, Shoptaw S, Gorbach PM. Association of Partnership-Level Methamphetamine Use on Inconsistent PrEP Care Engagement Among GBMSM in Los Angeles County. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1522-1530. [PMID: 37792232 PMCID: PMC11041383 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04178-x] [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: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
There are limited quantitative studies describing the association between meth use in the context of male-male sexual partnerships and PrEP care engagement. We assessed the longitudinal relationship between individual and partnership level meth use with inconsistent PrEP engagement among young gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in Los Angeles. The primary exposure was meth use at the partnership level with a ternary variable (neither partner nor participant used meth, either used meth, or both used meth). Generalized estimating equations were used to assess odds of inconsistent PrEP engagement at different levels of partner-participant meth use, adjusting for age at visit, number of recent male partners and partner intimacy. Among inconsistent PrEP engagement, 61% (n = 84, vs. 79.5%, n = 346 continuous) reported that neither they nor their partner used meth, 22% (n = 31, vs. 18%, n = 56) reported that either partner or participant used meth and 17% (n = 24, vs. 8%, n = 33) reported that both partner and participant used meth (P < 0.01). There were increased odds of inconsistent PrEP engagement when both partner and participant reported meth use (aOR: 3.82; 95%CI: 1.83-7.99) and when either partner or participant reported meth use (aOR: 2.46; 95%CI: 1.28-4.75). Meth use plays an important role in consistent PrEP engagement among GBMSM in mSTUDY. PrEP users who use meth with partners may benefit from integrated interventions addressing both meth use and PrEP engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Moran
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, 615 E Charles Young Drive S, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, 615 E Charles Young Drive S, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Matthew Mimiaga
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, 615 E Charles Young Drive S, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, 615 E Charles Young Drive S, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
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8
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Goodreau SM, Barry MP, Hamilton DT, Williams AM, Wang LY, Sanchez TH, Katz DA, Delaney KP. Behavior Change Among HIV-Negative Men Who Have Sex with Men Not Using PrEP in the United States. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1766-1780. [PMID: 38411799 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04281-7] [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: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
This study measures changes in condomless anal sex (CAS) among HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) who are not taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). It considers the 2014-2019 cycles of the American Men's Internet Survey, a serial, cross-sectional web-based survey of US cisgender MSM aged ≥ 15 years, in which ~ 10% of each year's sample is drawn from the previous year. Among those surveyed for 2 years who remained HIV-negative and off PrEP, reports of having any CAS and of CAS partner number were compared across years. We disaggregated by partner HIV status, and considered demographic predictors. The overall population saw a significant 2.2 percentage-point (pp) increase in reports of any CAS year-over-year. Sub-populations with the largest year-on-year increases were 15-24-year-olds (5.0-pp) and Hispanic respondents (5.1-pp), with interaction (young Hispanic respondents = 12.8-pp). On the relative scale, these numbers correspond to 3.2%, 7.2%, 7.3% and 18.7%, respectively. Absolute increases were concentrated among partners reported as HIV-negative. Multivariable analyses for CAS initiation found effects concentrated among Hispanic and White youth and residents of fringe counties of large metropolitan areas. CAS partner number increases were similarly predicted by Hispanic identity and young age. Although condom use remains more common than PrEP use, increasing CAS among MSM not on PrEP suggests potential new HIV transmission pathways. Concentration of increases among 18-24-year-old MSM portends future increases in the proportion of newly diagnosed HIV that occur among youth. Concentration among young Hispanic MSM will likely expand existing disparities. Although reducing barriers to PrEP remains vital, condom promotion for MSM remains a key public health practice and appears to be missing key audiences. LGBTQ+-inclusive sex education is one avenue for enhancing these efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Goodreau
- Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Campus Box 353100, Seattle, WA, 98122, USA.
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Michael P Barry
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Center for AIDS & STD, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Deven T Hamilton
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Austin M Williams
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Li Yan Wang
- Division of Adolescent and School Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - David A Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kevin P Delaney
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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9
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Okafor CN, Somasunderam A, Lake JE, Gelfond J, Javanbakht M, Gorbach P, Shoptaw S, Schmitz J. Cannabis Use and Biomarkers of Inflammation, Immune Activation, and Microbial Translocation in Persons with HIV. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024. [PMID: 38335314 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0109] [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] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The relationship between cannabis and inflammation among persons with HIV (PWH) remains unclear. We examined whether the cannabis metabolite 11-nor-9-carboxy THC (THC-COOH) is associated with lower levels of plasma biomarkers of inflammation, immune activation, and microbial translocation in PWH. We hypothesized that cannabis use would be associated with lower levels of plasma inflammatory biomarkers than noncannabis use. Methods: We quantified THC-COOH in plasma, with THC-COOH levels between 5.1-69.9 μg/L and ≥70 μg/L being classified as moderate and heavy cannabis use, respectively, with noncannabis use defined as undetected THC-COOH. We measured a panel of plasma biomarkers of inflammation (interleukin [IL]-1-β, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-18, IL-6, and C-reactive protein), immune activation (CD14 and CD163), and microbial translocation (iFABP2 and lipopolysaccharide binding protein [LBP]), with all biomarkers collected on the same day. We used a cross-sectional design and linear regression models to test whether cannabis use is associated with lower biomarker levels. Results: Participants were (N=107) sexual minority men with HIV (median age=32 years, IQR=28, 38), of whom 65% were virally suppressed; 36%, 44%, and 20% were classified as nonuse, moderate, and heavy cannabis, respectively. In linear regression models adjusted for viral suppression, stimulant use, and CD4 counts, heavy cannabis use was significantly associated with lower levels of log10 LBP (β=-0.14, 95% confidence interval: -0.24 to -0.04; false discovery rate=0.0029; partial eta squared=0.07) than noncannabis users. No precise associations were observed for other biomarkers (all p>0.05). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that cannabis use may be associated with lower plasma LBP. Further work is needed to clarify the relationship between cannabis use and biomarkers of microbial translocation in PWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwuemeka N Okafor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Anoma Somasunderam
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jordan E Lake
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jonathan Gelfond
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pamina Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Joy Schmitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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10
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Kalwicz DA, Rao S, Modrakovic DX, Zea MC, Dovidio JF, Eaton LA, Holt M, MacGibbon J, Zaheer MA, Garner A, Calabrese SK. The Implications of PrEP Use, Condom Use, and Partner Viral Load Status for Openness to Serodifferent Partnering Among US Sexual Minority Men (SMM). AIDS Behav 2024; 28:524-534. [PMID: 38329558 PMCID: PMC10999131 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04241-7] [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: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
PrEP has been reported to facilitate openness to serodifferent sexual partnerships among sexual minority men (SMM). However, other aspects of a sexual scenario likely come into play, including whether or not condoms are used and whether or not the partner living with HIV has an undetectable viral load. This online survey study evaluated the association between PrEP status and openness to serodifferent partnering, as well as the effects of various sexual scenario variables (condom use and partner's viral load) among 268 HIV-negative SMM in the US. Each participant reported their PrEP status and rated their openness to serodifferent partnering in four sexual scenarios, which varied by condom use (with/without) and partner viral load status (detectable/undetectable). Analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) were conducted to assess differences in openness to serodifferent partnering by PrEP status in each scenario, adjusting for background characteristics. A two-way repeated measures ANCOVA and a three-way mixed factorial ANCOVA, including PrEP status as a between-subjects variable, were also performed to assess the effects of condom use and partner viral load status on openness. Across all scenarios, current PrEP users expressed significantly greater openness to serodifferent partnering compared to participants who had never used PrEP. Current PrEP users were also more likely than former PrEP users to consider partnering with someone with an undetectable viral load without using condoms. Both PrEP users and PrEP-inexperienced individuals had greater openness to serodifferent partnering with a partner having an undetectable (vs. detectable) viral load, which was magnified by condom use among the latter.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Kalwicz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA.
| | - Sharanya Rao
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
| | - Djordje X Modrakovic
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
| | - Maria Cecilia Zea
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
| | - John F Dovidio
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James MacGibbon
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Myra A Zaheer
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alex Garner
- Hornet Gay Social Network, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sarah K Calabrese
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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11
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Tang X, Schalet BD, Janulis P, Keruly JC, Moore RD, Milloy MJ, DeBeck K, Hayashi K, Javanbakht M, Kim S, Siminski S, Shoptaw S, Gorbach PM. Evaluating the agreement between different substance use recall periods in multiple HIV cohorts. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 254:111043. [PMID: 38061201 PMCID: PMC10872532 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.111043] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to evaluate the agreement in substance use on both binary and ordinal scales between 3-month and 6-month recall periods with samples from different communities, demographic backgrounds, and HIV status. METHODS We administered the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) to 799 participants from three different North American cohorts focused on substance use and HIV. We conducted a within-person agreement analysis by calculating the agreement levels and Kappa statistic between data collected using the 3-month recall ASSIST and 6-month custom substance use surveys as well as different terminology for each substance in multiple cohorts. RESULTS For all drugs studied, the agreement on the binary use or ordinal frequency of use metrics showed a high agreement level between 80.4% and 97.9% and an adequate adjusted kappa value between 0.61 and 0.96, suggesting substantial agreement. According to the agreement criteria we proposed, substance use data collected using different recall periods and with variation in drug names can be harmonized across cohorts. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to evaluate the feasibility of data harmonization of substance use by demonstrating high level of agreement between different recall periods in different cohorts. The results can inform data harmonization efforts in consortia where data are collected from cohorts using different questions and recall periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Tang
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Benjamin D Schalet
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Patrick Janulis
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago IL, USA
| | - Jeanne C Keruly
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Richard D Moore
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - M-J Milloy
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada; School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver Canada
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Soyeon Kim
- Frontier Science Foundation, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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12
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Davis-Ewart L, Grov C, Verhagen R, Manuel J, Viamonte M, Dilworth S, O'Dell N, Valentin O, Carr S, Cherenack E, Henderson C, Doblecki-Lewis S, Nahum-Shani I, Carrico AW. Motivational Enhancement Interventions to Increase Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Use in Sexual Minority Men Who Use Stimulants: Protocol for a Pilot Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e48459. [PMID: 37831485 PMCID: PMC10612012 DOI: 10.2196/48459] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) could substantially mitigate HIV risk, sexual minority men who use stimulants commonly experience difficulties with engaging in PrEP clinical services. Motivational interviewing (MI) and contingency management (CM) reduce substance use and condomless anal sex (CAS) in this population, but these motivational enhancement interventions require modifications to promote engagement along the PrEP care continuum. OBJECTIVE PrEP Readiness Interventions for Supporting Motivation (PRISM) is a pilot sequential multiple assignment randomized trial testing the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of distinct combinations of telehealth MI and CM in 70 cisgender sexual minority men who use stimulants that are not currently taking PrEP. METHODS A national sample was recruited via social networking applications to complete a baseline assessment and mail-in HIV testing. Those with nonreactive HIV results were randomized to receive either (1) a 2-session MI intervention focusing on PrEP use (session 1) and concomitant stimulant use or CAS (session 2) or (2) a CM intervention with financial incentives for documented evidence of PrEP clinical evaluation by a medical provider (US $50) and filling a PrEP prescription (US $50). At the 3-month follow-up assessment, participants who reported they had not filled a prescription for PrEP were randomized a second time to either (1) switch to a second-stage intervention (ie, MI+CM or CM+MI) or (2) continue with assessments only. Outcomes for both responders and nonresponders were reassessed at a 6-month follow-up. The primary outcome is documented evidence of filling a PrEP prescription over 6 months. Self-reported secondary outcomes include PrEP clinical evaluation by a medical provider, stimulant use, and CAS. Qualitative exit interviews were conducted with a subgroup of responders and nonresponders to characterize their experiences with the MI and CM interventions. RESULTS Implementation of PRISM underscores challenges in reaching sexual minority men who use stimulants to optimize HIV prevention efforts. Approximately 1 in 10 (104/1060) eligible participants have enrolled. Of the 104 who enrolled, 87 (84%) completed mail-in HIV testing. We delivered 5 preliminary HIV-positive results, including posttest counseling with referrals to confirmatory testing. CONCLUSIONS Lessons learned from PRISM underscore the central importance of a flexible, participant-centered approach to support the engagement of sexual minority men who use stimulants. Leveraging telehealth platforms to deliver motivational enhancement interventions also expanded their reach and potential public health impact with this high-priority population. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of telehealth MI and CM for supporting PrEP use in sexual minority men who use stimulants. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04205487; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04205487. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/48459.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Davis-Ewart
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Christian Grov
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Rachel Verhagen
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Science, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Jennifer Manuel
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Michael Viamonte
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Samantha Dilworth
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Nicole O'Dell
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Omar Valentin
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sidney Carr
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Emily Cherenack
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Chelsea Henderson
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | | | - Inbal Nahum-Shani
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
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Reid SC, Wang V, Assaf RD, Kaloper S, Murray AT, Shoptaw S, Gorbach P, Cassels S. Novel Location-Based Survey Using Cognitive Interviews to Assess Geographic Networks and Hotspots of Sex and Drug Use: Implementation and Validation Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e45188. [PMID: 37347520 DOI: 10.2196/45188] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative in the United States relies on HIV hotspots to identify where to geographically target new resources, expertise, and technology. However, interventions targeted at places with high HIV transmission and infection risk, not just places with high HIV incidence, may be more effective at reducing HIV incidence and achieving health equity. OBJECTIVE We described the implementation and validation of a web-based activity space survey on HIV risk behaviors. The survey was intended to collect geographic information that will be used to map risk behavior hotspots as well as the geography of sexual networks in Los Angeles County. METHODS The survey design team developed a series of geospatial questions that follow a 3-level structure that becomes more geographically precise as participants move through the levels. The survey was validated through 9 cognitive interviews and iteratively updated based on participant feedback until the saturation of topics and technical issues was reached. RESULTS In total, 4 themes were identified through the cognitive interviews: functionality of geospatial questions, representation and accessibility, privacy, and length and understanding of the survey. The ease of use for the geospatial questions was critical as many participants were not familiar with mapping software. The inclusion of well-known places, landmarks, and road networks was critical for ease of use. The addition of a Google Maps interface, which was familiar to many participants, aided in collecting accurate and precise location information. The geospatial questions increased the length of the survey and warranted the inclusion of features to simplify it and speed it up. Using nicknames to refer to previously entered geographic locations limited the number of geospatial questions that appeared in the survey and reduced the time taken to complete it. The long-standing relationship between participants and the research team improved comfort to disclose sensitive geographic information related to drug use and sex. Participants in the cognitive interviews highlighted how trust and inclusive and validating language in the survey alleviated concerns related to privacy and representation. CONCLUSIONS This study provides promising results regarding the feasibility of using a web-based mapping survey to collect sensitive location information relevant to ending the HIV epidemic. Data collection at several geographic levels will allow for insights into spatial recall of behaviors as well as future sensitivity analysis of the spatial scale of hotspots and network characteristics. This design also promotes the privacy and comfort of participants who provide location information for sensitive topics. Key considerations for implementing this type of survey include trust from participants, community partners, or research teams to overcome concerns related to privacy and comfort. The implementation of similar surveys should consider local characteristics and knowledge when crafting the geospatial components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean C Reid
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Vania Wang
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Ryan D Assaf
- Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, Center for Vulnerable Populations, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Sofia Kaloper
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Alan T Murray
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Pamina Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Susan Cassels
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
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14
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Davis-Ewart L, Grov C, Verhagen R, Manuel J, Viamonte M, Dilworth S, Valentin O, Cherenack EM, Carr S, Doblecki-Lewis S, Nahum-Shani I, Carrico AW. Randomized Controlled Trial of Motivational Enhancement Interventions to Increase Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Use in Sexual Minority Men Who Use Stimulants. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2787003. [PMID: 37131755 PMCID: PMC10153377 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2787003/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: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) could substantially mitigate HIV risk, sexual minority men (SMM) who use stimulants commonly experience difficulties with engaging in PrEP clinical services. Motivational interviewing (MI) and contingency management (CM) reduce substance use and condomless anal sex in this population, but these motivational enhancement interventions require adaptation to promote engagement along the PrEP care continuum. Methods PRISM is a pilot sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART) testing the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of distinct combinations of telehealth MI and CM in 70 cisgender SMM who use stimulants that are not currently taking PrEP. A national sample was recruited via social networking applications to complete a baseline assessment and mail-in HIV testing. Those with non-reactive HIV results are randomized to receive either: 1) a 2-session MI intervention focusing on PrEP use (session 1) and concomitant stimulant use or condomless anal sex (session 2); or 2) a CM intervention with financial incentives for documented evidence of PrEP clinical evaluation by a medical provider ($50) and filling a PrEP prescription ($50). At the 3-month follow-up assessment, participants who report they have not filled a prescription for PrEP are randomized a second time to either: 1) Switch to a second-stage intervention (i.e., MI + CM or CM + MI); or 2) Continue with assessments only. Outcomes for both responders and non-responders are reassessed at a 6-month follow-up. The primary outcome is documented evidence of filling a PrEP prescription. Self-reported, secondary outcomes include PrEP clinical evaluation by a medical provider, stimulant use, and condomless anal sex. Qualitative exit interviews are conducted with a sub-group of responders and non-responders to characterize their experiences with the MI and CM interventions. Discussion Implementation of this pilot SMART underscores the challenges in reaching SMM who use stimulants to optimize HIV prevention efforts such that approximately one in ten (104/1,060) eligible participants enrolled. However, 85% (70/82) of enrolled participants with non-reactive HIV results were randomized. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of telehealth MI and CM for supporting PrEP use in SMM who use stimulants. Trial Registration This protocol was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04205487) on December 19, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sidney Carr
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
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15
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Blair CS, Fulcher JA, Cho GD, Gorbach PM, Shoptaw S, Clark JL. Brief Report: Impact of Methamphetamine Use and Rectal STIs on Systemic and Rectal Mucosal Inflammation. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:281-285. [PMID: 36515912 PMCID: PMC9974870 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methamphetamine (MA) use is associated with sexual risk behavior as well as systemic and mucosal inflammation, suggesting parallel biological and behavioral mechanisms of HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) who use MA. Data evaluating the combined biological effects of MA use with concomitant rectal gonococcal and/or chlamydial (GC/CT) infection on inflammation are limited. SETTING Secondary analysis of stored rectal and plasma specimens from 100 MSM participating in an NIDA-funded longitudinal cohort in Los Angeles, CA. METHODS This cross-sectional analysis evaluated systemic and rectal inflammatory markers under 2 conditions: (1) recent MA use (by urine drug screen) and (2) rectal GC/CT infection. We evaluated 50 participants with recent MA use (25 with and 25 without rectal GC/CT) and 50 MSM without MA use (25 with and 25 without rectal GC/CT). Log-transformed plasma and rectal immune markers were regressed on MA exposure and rectal GC/CT, controlling for HIV status and age. RESULTS Median age was 32 (range 19-45) years, and 58% of participants were living with HIV. Plasma tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-1ß, and rectal IL-6 were associated with rectal GC/CT and MA use, independent of HIV status. Higher levels of rectal TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-17a were associated with rectal GC/CT. CONCLUSIONS Systemic and rectal inflammation was positively associated with rectal GC/CT and MA use. Condomless sex in the setting of GC/CT- and MA-induced immune activation may provide a basis for synergistic biobehavioral mechanisms that promote HIV/STI transmission among MSM who use MA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheríe S Blair
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jennifer A Fulcher
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Grace D Cho
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA; and
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jesse L Clark
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA; and
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16
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Dalvie S, Li M, Kalmin M, Cole S, Stein DJ, Shoptaw S. The association between childhood adversity and the conserved transcriptional response to adversity (CTRA) in sexual minority men. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2585046. [PMID: 36824925 PMCID: PMC9949175 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2585046/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACES) increase risk for mental and physical health disorders in adulthood, particularly in individuals from sexual and ethnic minority groups. The effects of ACES on health may be mediated by the immune system. The exact mechanisms by which an environmental exposure, such as childhood adversity, can affect the immune system are still unknown. The aim of this study was to determine whether early adversity predicts significant changes in the expression of a predefined set of immune-related genes, known as the conserved transcriptional response to adversity (CTRA), in a diverse group of sexual minority men (SMM). Participants included HIV positive and negative males from the mSTUDY. Expression data from 53 CTRA genes were obtained at baseline and 12-month follow-up. Childhood adversity was measured with the 10-item ACES questionnaire. Wilcoxon rank sum and chi-squared tests were used to assess differences in sociodemographic variables and HIV status between exposed (cumulative ACES ≥ 3) and unexposed groups (cumulative ACES ≤ 2). Linear mixed models were used to determine associations between ACES (cumulative score, dichotomous measure and subscales) and CTRA gene expression. There were no differences in age and employment status between the exposed and unexposed groups. A larger number of exposed participants were HIV positive than in the unexposed group (p = 0.03). There were no significant associations between any of the ACES variables and CTRA gene expression. A range of factors may have contributed to this unexpected finding. Further studies are needed to assess the biological effects of ACES in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Li
- UCLA: University of California Los Angeles
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17
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Goldshear JL, Westmoreland DA, Carrico AW, Grov C. Drug use typology, demographic covariates, and associations with condomless anal sex: A latent class analysis among a U.S. national cohort of men who have sex with men. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 112:103949. [PMID: 36587507 PMCID: PMC9975079 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103949] [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: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior research has shown that men who have sex with men (MSM) who use drugs are at increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STI) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Often, MSM who use drugs use multiple substances at once and research has indicated that certain substances are used in combination more frequently. As a vulnerable population, it is important to understand the various ways in which this population uses drugs in order to structure prevention, harm reduction, and treatment programs to their needs. METHODS Data for this analysis were taken from a cohort of geographically diverse U.S. national sample of cisgender men who have sex with men (n = 6111). After assessing prevalence of drug use in the sample, we used iterative latent class analysis to determine substance use classes for 10 substances. After a model was selected, class assignments were examined for association with mean number of insertive and receptive condomless anal sex (CAS) partners in the past three months. RESULTS The final model indicated six latent classes: class 1 = "cannabis use" (n = 1,996), class 2 = "diverse use" (n = 299), class 3 = "cocaine and inhalant use" (n = 421), class 4 = "methamphetamine, GHB, and inhalant use" (n = 345), class 5 = "no use" (n = 2431), class 6 = "sedative use" (n = 619). Age, race, annual income, residence in EHE jurisdictions, past history of houselessness, and past history of incarceration was significantly associated with membership in some classes. In outcome modeling, participants best assigned to Class 4 had the highest mean number of insertive (Mean = 9.70, 95% CI: 5.92 - 13.47) and receptive (Mean = 8.71, 95% CI: 6.75 - 10.66) condomless anal sex (CAS) partners in the prior three months. CONCLUSION The six heterogenous classes may indicate discrete typologies of use behavior corresponding to different settings or activities, which may themselves differ by regional HIV incidence trends and participant demographics. Programs seeking to address substance use among MSM may be well served to tailor toward these divergent clusters of substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse L Goldshear
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of California Keck Medicine, 1845 N Soto St, Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA
| | - Drew A Westmoreland
- City University of New York (CUNY) Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, 55 W 125th Street, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami. 1120 NW 14th St #905, 33136, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, 55 W 125th Street, New York, NY 10027, USA.
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18
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Morgan E, Dyar C, Feinstein BA, Ricks J. PrEP use and stigma among a sample of older adults in Columbus, Ohio. Int J STD AIDS 2023; 34:122-129. [PMID: 36424190 PMCID: PMC10113038 DOI: 10.1177/09564624221140967] [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] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite older adults (age ≥50 years) continuing to account for 1 in 6 new HIV diagnoses, the majority of research has focused on young adults. Assessing PrEP use and stigma among this understudied population is key to achieving the U.S.'s goals of Ending the HIV Epidemic, a federal initiative focusing on reducing new HIV infections by at least 90% by 2030. METHODS Data for this analysis came from the Columbus Health Aging Project (N = 794). This study was designed to assess several domains of health among adults aged 50 years and older in Columbus, Ohio. Multiple logistic and linear regression models were used to examine the associations between sociodemographic factors and past 6-month PrEP use, PrEP stigma, and concurrent use of PrEP and other prevention methods, adjusting for known confounders. RESULTS Overall, 93 (11.7%) participants reported past 6-month PrEP use. Transgender women (aOR = 6.90; 95% CI: 2.19, 21.72), cisgender gay men (aOR = 5.58; 95% CI: 2.49, 12.50), cisgender lesbians (aOR = 2.24; 95% CI: 1.05, 4.80), and those living with family members or roommates (aOR = 6.59; 95% CI: 3.49, 12.45) were each more likely to report past 6-month PrEP use relative to cisgender women, heterosexuals, and those living with a spouse/partner, respectively. Relative to cisgender women, PrEP-related stigma was lower among transgender women (β = -5.05; 95% CI: -8.44, -1.66) and higher among cisgender men (β = 1.96; 95% CI: 0.46, 3.46). CONCLUSION Future research should aim to continue developing a firm understanding of PrEP use and stigma among older adults to reduce HIV risk among this population and to understand unique needs of sub-populations of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Morgan
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
- Infectious Disease Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Christina Dyar
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Brian A. Feinstein
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL
| | - JaNelle Ricks
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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Boyd DT, Nelson LE, Hill MJ, Whitfield D, Ramos SR, Akyirem S, Emel L, Wilton L, Hightow-Weidman L, Shoptaw S, Magnus M, Mayer KH, Piwowar-Manning E, Wallace SE, Fields SD, Wheeler DP. Examining the Role of Autonomy Support, Goal Setting, and Care Coordination Quality on HIV PrEP Adherence in Black Men Who Have Sex with Men: HPTN 073. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:22-30. [PMID: 36626154 PMCID: PMC10024067 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0139] [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] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Autonomy support is a concept that is derived from self-determination theory. Autonomy refers to the freedom to act as one chooses. The current study aimed to examine if autonomy support was associated with dried blood spot validated pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence, and whether the association was mediated by PrEP adherence goal setting and progress toward PrEP adherence goals. Our sample was drawn from Black men who have sex with men (MSM) from across three cities (Chapel Hill, NC; Los Angeles, CA; and Washington, DC) in the United States between February 2013 and September 2014. We used logistic regression to evaluate associations between study variables and path analysis to test mediation effects. Participants were, on average, 28 [standard deviation (SD) = 1.12] years old and 25% were unemployed. We found that MSM who experienced high autonomy support were more likely to adhere to PrEP [odds ratio (OR) = 1.17; 95% confidence interval: 1.00-1.38]. MSM who set PrEP adherence goals were more likely to adhere to PrEP. Moreover, MSM who reported making progress toward their goals were also more likely to adhere to PrEP. Finally, client perception of coordination quality enhanced the magnitude of the association between goal setting and goal progress and the effect size of goal progress on PrEP adherence. Autonomy support, goal setting, goal monitoring/evaluation, and care coordination quality influenced PrEP adherence among Black MSM. Our findings indicate that while it is important to set goals for PrEP adherence, goal setting may need to be accompanied by progress monitoring to achieve the maximal effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donte T. Boyd
- College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Yale School of Public Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - LaRon E. Nelson
- Yale School of Public Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale School of Nursing, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Unity Health Toronto—St. Michael's, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mandy J. Hill
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Darren Whitfield
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - S. Raquel Ramos
- Yale School of Public Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale School of Nursing, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Lynda Emel
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Leo Wilton
- State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, New York, USA
- Department of Humanities, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lisa Hightow-Weidman
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Division of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Manya Magnus
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | | | - Estelle Piwowar-Manning
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore Maryland, USA
| | - Stephaun E. Wallace
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutch, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sheldon D. Fields
- Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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Bonett S, Bauermeister J, Meanley S. Social identity support, descriptive norms, and economic instability in PrEP engagement for emerging adult MSM in the United States. AIDS Care 2022; 34:1452-1460. [PMID: 35765164 PMCID: PMC10071877 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2075821] [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: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Rates of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake for HIV prevention continue to increase rapidly among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States (U.S.); however, these increases have been slower among young MSM. Emerging adulthood (ages 18-25) is a time of transitions and social development, resulting in increased vulnerability to HIV. Analyzing data from a cross-sectional survey of emerging adult MSM (ages 18-25 years; n = 281) in the Mid-Atlantic urban metropolitan region of the U.S., we examined how social identity support, descriptive PrEP norms, and economic instability were related to PrEP engagement. In structural equation models, PrEP norms were directly associated with PrEP engagement (β = 0.29, 95% CI = [0.12,0.46]) and social identity support was indirectly associated with PrEP engagement through its association with descriptive PrEP norms (β = 0.18, 95% CI = [0.09,0.28]). Economic instability was not significantly associated with PrEP engagement, although a negative trend was present (β = -0.19, 95% CI = [-0.39,0.02]). Our results suggest that an integrative socioecological model is appropriate for the study of PrEP engagement among emerging adult MSM. Efforts to increase PrEP engagement should support community capacity building, amplify positive descriptive PrEP norms, and address unmet economic needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Bonett
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA, USA
| | | | - Steven Meanley
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA, USA
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21
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Walsh JL, John SA, Robles G, Wesche R, Hirshfield S. Talking to My Partners About PrEP: Factors Associated with PrEP-Related Communication in a Longitudinal US Study of Sexual Minority Men Living with HIV. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2022; 23:1438-1447. [PMID: 35524930 PMCID: PMC9810111 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-022-01372-6] [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: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Treatment as prevention and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have reduced HIV transmission among sexual minority men (SMM). However, little is known about PrEP-related communication in serodiscordant partnerships. In 2015-2016, 965 US SMM living with HIV (Mage = 39; 63% White, 19% Black, 18% Latinx) enrolled in a year-long longitudinal study with surveys every 3 months (2,850 surveys). Multilevel models explored factors associated with PrEP-related communication with HIV-negative partners. Most participants (77%) reported PrEP-related communication. Participants were more likely to discuss PrEP during periods with more sexual partners, AOR = 2.89, p < .001, and group sex, AOR = 1.99, p = .001. Those with more partners on average, β = 0.48, p < .001, and those engaging in other drug use more frequently, β = 0.11, p = .002, were more likely to discuss PrEP. PrEP-related communication was more common for men who disclosed their HIV status, β = 0.22, p < .001, and who had undetectable viral loads, β = 0.25, p = .007. Communication was also more common for those with higher incomes, β = 0.12, p = .02, and from larger cities, β = 0.07, p = .048, and less common for Black participants, β = - 0.29, p = .003, and older participants, β = - 0.18, p < .001. PrEP-related communication increased over the course of the study, AOR = 1.16, p= .02. PrEP can confer additional HIV prevention benefits within serodiscordant partnerships, and future research should continue to explore the role PrEP plays in these partnerships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Walsh
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
| | - Steven A John
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Gabriel Robles
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Rose Wesche
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, STAR Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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22
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Li G, Park LS, Lodi S, Logan RW, Cartwright EJ, Aoun-Barakat L, Casas JP, Dickerman BA, Rentsch CT, Justice AC, Hernán MA. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and coronavirus disease 2019 outcomes in men with HIV. AIDS 2022; 36:1689-1696. [PMID: 35848570 PMCID: PMC9444875 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes by antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens among men with HIV. DESIGN We included men with HIV on ART in the Veterans Aging Cohort Study who, between February 2020 and October 2021, were 18 years or older and had adequate virological control, CD4 + cell count, and HIV viral load measured in the previous 12 months, and no previous COVID-19 diagnosis or vaccination. METHODS We compared the adjusted risks of documented severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, COVID-19-related hospitalization, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission by baseline ART regimen: tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)/emtricitabine (FTC), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/FTC, abacavir (ABC)/lamivudine (3TC), and other. We fit pooled logistic regressions to estimate the 18-month risks standardized by demographic and clinical factors. RESULTS Among 20 494 eligible individuals, the baseline characteristics were similar across regimens, except that TDF/FTC and TAF/FTC had lower prevalences of chronic kidney disease and estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min. Compared with TAF/FTC, the estimated 18-month risk ratio (95% confidence interval) of documented SARS-CoV-2 infection was 0.65 (0.43, 0.89) for TDF/FTC, 1.00 (0.85, 1.18) for ABC/3TC, and 0.87 (0.70, 1.04) for others. The corresponding risk ratios for COVID-19 hospitalization were 0.43 (0.07, 0.87), 1.09 (0.79, 1.48), and 1.21 (0.88, 1.62). The risk of COVID-19 ICU admission was lowest for TDF/FTC, but the estimates were imprecise. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that, in men living with HIV, TDF/FTC may protect against COVID-19-related events. Randomized trials are needed to investigate the effectiveness of TDF as prophylaxis for, and early treatment of, COVID-19 in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilin Li
- CAUSALab
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lesley S Park
- Stanford Center for Population Health Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Sara Lodi
- CAUSALab
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Roger W Logan
- CAUSALab
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emily J Cartwright
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, North Druid Hills, Georgia
| | - Lydia Aoun-Barakat
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Juan P Casas
- Massachusetts Veterans Epidemiology Research and Information Center (MAVERIC), VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Medicine, Division of Aging, Brigham & Women's Hospital
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Barbra A Dickerman
- CAUSALab
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christopher T Rentsch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, USA
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Amy C Justice
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Yale School of Medicine
- Division of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Miguel A Hernán
- CAUSALab
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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23
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Eubanks A, Coulibaly B, Dembélé Keita B, Anoma C, Dah TTE, Mensah E, Kaba S, Lokrou KJ, Ouedraogo FR, Badjassim AMF, Maradan G, Bourrelly M, Mora M, Riegel L, Rojas Castro D, Yaya I, Spire B, Laurent C, Sagaon-Teyssier L. Socio-behavioral correlates of pre-exposure prophylaxis use and correct adherence in men who have sex with men in West Africa. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1832. [PMID: 36175860 PMCID: PMC9520809 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14211-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple barriers compromise pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) engagement (i.e., use and adherence) in men who have sex with men (MSM). In low/middle-income countries, little is known about PrEP engagement in this population. In West Africa, the CohMSM-PrEP study was one of the rare interventions providing PrEP to MSM. We estimated PrEP use and correct adherence rates in CohMSM-PrEP, together with associated factors over time. METHODS: CohMSM-PrEP recruited MSM in four community-based clinics in Mali, Côte d'Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Togo. Quarterly follow-up included collecting socio-behavioral data, and providing a comprehensive HIV prevention package, PrEP (daily or event-driven), and peer educator (PE)-led counselling. Using repeated measures, multivariate generalized estimating equations models were used to identify factors associated with self-reported i) PrEP use and ii) correct PrEP adherence during participants' most recent anal intercourse (defined as four pills/week for daily users and 2 + 1 + 1 for event-driven users). RESULTS Five hundred twenty participants were included with a median follow-up time of 12 months (IQR 6-21). Of the 2839 intercourses declared over the follow-up period, PrEP use was self-reported for 1996 (70%), and correct PrEP adherence for 1461 (73%) of the latter. PrEP use was higher in participants who also attended participating clinics outside of scheduled visits (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) [95% Confidence Interval, CI], p-value; 1.32[1.01-1.71], 0.040), and in those who practiced condomless anal sex (1.86[1.54-2.24], < 0.001). Correct adherence was higher in those who often contacted PE outside of scheduled visits (2.16[1.01-4.64], 0.047) and in participants who adopted receptive/versatile sexual positions with stable partners (1.36[1.03-1.81], 0.030). Instead, after an interaction effect between financial situation and regimen was tested, it was lower in event-driven users with a difficult/very difficult financial situation (comfortable/just making ends meet & daily, 4.19[2.56-6.86], < 0.001; difficult/very difficult & daily, 6.47[4.05-10.30], < 0.001; comfortable/just making ends meet & event-driven, 1.63[1.22-2.17], 0.001), and in participants who felt alone (0.76[0.58-0.99], 0.042). CONCLUSIONS Community-based clinic attendance and PE contact outside of scheduled visits were both associated with higher PrEP engagement, but some socially and economically marginalized participants struggled with adherence. As scale-up continues in West Africa, we recommend implementing community-based interventions and providing extra support for vulnerable users to ensure adequate PrEP engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- August Eubanks
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de La Santé and Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France.
| | | | | | | | - Ter Tiero Elias Dah
- Association African Solidarité, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.,Centre Muraz, Centre Muraz, Institut National de Santé Publique, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gwenaëlle Maradan
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de La Santé and Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France.,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de La Santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Michel Bourrelly
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de La Santé and Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France.,Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - Marion Mora
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de La Santé and Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Lucas Riegel
- Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - Daniela Rojas Castro
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de La Santé and Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France.,Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - Issifou Yaya
- TransVIHMI, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, IRD, France
| | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de La Santé and Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | | | - Luis Sagaon-Teyssier
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de La Santé and Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France.,ARCAD Santé PLUS, Bamako, Mali
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24
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Li MJ, Richter EI, Okafor CN, Kalmin MM, Dalvie S, Takada S, Gorbach PM, Shoptaw SJ, Cole SW. Social Genomics of Methamphetamine Use, HIV Viral Load, and Social Adversity. Ann Behav Med 2022; 56:900-908. [DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaab096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Social genomics has demonstrated altered inflammatory and type I interferon (IFN) gene expression among people experiencing chronic social adversity. Adverse social experiences such as discrimination and violence are linked to stimulant misuse and HIV, conditions that dysregulate inflammatory and innate antiviral responses, leading to increased HIV viral replication and risk of chronic diseases.
Purpose
We aimed to determine whether methamphetamine (MA) use, unsuppressed HIV viral load (VL) (≥200 c/mL), and experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) (past 12 months) predicted inflammatory and type I IFN gene expression in HIV-positive Black and Latinx men who have sex with men (MSM).
Methods
Participants were 147 HIV-positive Black and Latinx MSM recruited from the mSTUDY, a cohort of 561 MSM aged 18–45 in Los Angeles, CA, of whom half are HIV-positive and substance-using. Transcriptomic measures of inflammatory and type I IFN activity were derived from RNA sequencing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and matched to urine drug tests, VL, and survey data across two time points 12 months apart. Analysis used linear random intercept modeling of MA use, unsuppressed VL, and experienced IPV on inflammatory and type I IFN expression.
Results
In adjusted models, MA use predicted 27% upregulated inflammatory and 31% upregulated type I IFN expression; unsuppressed VL predicted 84% upregulated type I IFN but not inflammatory expression; and experienced IPV predicted 31% upregulated inflammatory and 26% upregulated type I IFN expression.
Conclusions
In Black and Latinx MSM with HIV, MA use, unsuppressed VL, and experienced IPV predicted upregulated social genomic markers of immune functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Li
- Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
| | - Emily I Richter
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
| | - Chukwuemeka N Okafor
- Department of Public Health, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University , Waco, TX , USA
| | - Mariah M Kalmin
- Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
| | - Shareefa Dalvie
- South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), Unit on Child & Adolescent Health, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Sae Takada
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
| | - Steven J Shoptaw
- Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
| | - Steven W Cole
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles, CA , USA
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25
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Viamonte M, Ghanooni D, Reynolds JM, Grov C, Carrico AW. Running with Scissors: a Systematic Review of Substance Use and the Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Care Continuum Among Sexual Minority Men. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:235-250. [PMID: 35701713 PMCID: PMC9279195 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00608-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Patterns of sexualized drug use, including stimulants (e.g., methamphetamine) and chemsex drugs, are key drivers of HIV incidence among sexual minority men (SMM). Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) mitigates HIV risk, there is no consensus regarding the associations of substance use with the PrEP care continuum. Recent Findings SMM who use substances are as likely or more likely to use PrEP. Although SMM who use stimulants experience greater difficulties with daily oral PrEP adherence, some evidence shows that SMM who use stimulants or chemsex drugs may achieve better adherence in the context of recent condomless anal sex. Finally, SMM who use substances may experience greater difficulties with PrEP persistence (including retention in PrEP care). Summary SMM who use stimulants and other substances would benefit from more comprehensive efforts to support PrEP re-uptake, adherence, and persistence, including delivering behavioral interventions, considering event-based dosing, and providing injectable PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Viamonte
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th St., Office 1010, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Delaram Ghanooni
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th St., Office 1010, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - John M Reynolds
- Calder Memorial Library, University of Miami, FL, Miami, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th St., Office 1010, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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26
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Eubanks A, Coulibaly B, Dembélé Keita B, Anoma C, Dah TTE, Mensah E, Maradan G, Bourrelly M, Mora M, Riegel L, Rojas Castro D, Yaya I, Spire B, Laurent C, Sagaon-Teyssier L. Rate and Predictors of Ineffective HIV Protection in African Men Who Have Sex with Men Taking Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3524-3537. [PMID: 35469111 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03692-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the rate and predictors of ineffective HIV protection in men who have sex with men (MSM) taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in a prospective cohort study from November 2017 to November 2020 in Mali, Côte d'Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Togo. MSM had to be 18 years or older and at high risk of HIV infection to participate. They also received a comprehensive sexual health prevention package, including PrEP, in community-based clinics as part of the cohort study. Using socio-behavioral/clinical data, HIV protection during their most recent anal intercourse with a male partner was categorized as effective or ineffective (i.e., incorrect PrEP adherence and no condom use). Seventeen percent (500/2839) of intercourses were ineffectively protected for the 520 study participants. Predictors of ineffective HIV protection included being an event-driven user with financial difficulties, having a high alcohol misuse score, and not being a member of a community association. PrEP programs in West Africa must be tailored to socially vulnerable MSM who struggle to adopt PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- August Eubanks
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France.
| | | | | | | | - Ter Tiero Elias Dah
- Association African Solidarité, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Institut National de Santé Publique, Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Gwenaëlle Maradan
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Michel Bourrelly
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - Marion Mora
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Lucas Riegel
- Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - Daniela Rojas Castro
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- Coalition Plus, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - Issifou Yaya
- TransVIHMI, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, IRD, France
| | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | | | - Luis Sagaon-Teyssier
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- ARCAD Santé PLUS, Bamako, Mali
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27
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Rathakrishnan D, Purpura LJ, Salcuni PM, Myers JE, Wahnich A, Daskalakis DC, Edelstein ZR. PrEP Use and Correlates of Use Among a Large, Urban Sample of Men and Transgender Persons Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1017-1025. [PMID: 34599419 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03456-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We examined recent pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use (past 6 months) and its correlates among a large sample of men who have sex with men and transgender and gender non-conforming persons participating in a home HIV self-testing program conducted by the New York City Health Department between 11/2016 and 1/2017. Correlates examined included demographic characteristics and HIV-related behaviors in the past 6 months. Associations with recent PrEP use were assessed using log-binomial regression. 400 (22.5%) of 1776 participants reported recent PrEP use. In adjusted models, recent PrEP use was associated with Manhattan residence [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 1.26; 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.04, 1.53)], higher income [aPR 1.29; 95% CI (1.03, 1.62)], and having insurance [aPR 1.89; 95% CI (1.33, 2.69)]. All HIV-related behaviors, except for injection drug use, were individually associated with PrEP use. More research is needed to better understand barriers to PrEP use among patients who are low income and/or uninsured as this may help improve current public health efforts to increase PrEP uptake among disproportionately impacted populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Rathakrishnan
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lawrence J Purpura
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- ICAP, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Paul M Salcuni
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Julie E Myers
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Amanda Wahnich
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY, USA
| | | | - Zoe R Edelstein
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
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Blair CS, Needleman J, Javanbakht M, Comulada WS, Ragsdale A, Bolan R, Shoptaw S, Gorbach PM. Risk Behaviors Associated with Patterns of Sexualized Stimulant and Alcohol Use among Men Who Have Sex with Men: a Latent Class Analysis. J Urban Health 2022; 99:293-304. [PMID: 35028876 PMCID: PMC9033896 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-021-00600-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Substance use during sexual encounters (sexualized substance use) is an important driver of HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) disparities that are experienced by men who have sex with men (MSM). This analysis aimed to identify patterns of sexualized substance use and their associations with HIV risk behaviors. We utilized visit-level data from a longitudinal cohort of predominantly Black/Latinx MSM, half with HIV and half with substance use in Los Angeles, California. Every 6 months from 8/2014 to 3/2020, participants underwent STI testing and completed surveys on demographics, sexualized substance use (stimulant and/or alcohol intoxication during oral sex, receptive anal intercourse [RAI] and/or insertive anal intercourse [IAI]), transactional sex, biomedical HIV prevention (pre-/post-exposure prophylaxis use or undetectable viral load), and depressive symptoms. Latent class analysis was used to identify patterns of sexualized substance use. Multinomial logit models evaluated risk behaviors associated with latent classes. Among 2386 study visits from 540 participants, 5 classes were identified: no substance use, sexualized stimulant use, sexualized alcohol use, sexualized stimulant and alcohol use, and stimulant/alcohol use during oral sex and RAI. Compared to the no sexualized substance use class, sexualized stimulant use was associated with transactional sex, current diagnosis of STIs, not using HIV biomedical prevention, and depressive symptoms. Sexualized alcohol use had fewer associations with HIV risk behaviors. Patterns of sexual activities, and the substances that are used during those activities, confer different risk behavior profiles for HIV/STI transmission and demonstrate the potential utility of interventions that combine substance use treatment with HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheríe S Blair
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 LeConte Avenue, CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Jack Needleman
- Department of Health Policy and Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - W Scott Comulada
- Department of Health Policy and Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Amy Ragsdale
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 LeConte Avenue, CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robert Bolan
- Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 LeConte Avenue, CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Shoptaw S, Li MJ, Javanbakht M, Ragsdale A, Goodman-Meza D, Gorbach PM. Frequency of reported methamphetamine use linked to prevalence of clinical conditions, sexual risk behaviors, and social adversity in diverse men who have sex with men in Los Angeles. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 232:109320. [PMID: 35093681 PMCID: PMC8885921 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study tested the hypothesis that reported frequency of methamphetamine use is significantly associated with measures of social adversity, sexual risk behaviors, chronic health conditions, bacterial STIs and HIV-related factors among diverse men who have sex with men (MSM). METHODS Data were 2428 visits from 515 mSTUDY participants (261 people living with HIV; 254 HIV-negative). mSTUDY is an ongoing longitudinal study of racially/ethnically diverse MSM in Los Angeles County. Logistic regression with random intercepts modeled associations between self-reported past 6-month methamphetamine use (none, monthly or less, weekly or more) with reported adverse social outcomes (unemployment, housing instability, intimate partner violence), sexual risk behaviors, chronic health conditions, and biomarkers of bacterial STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis) and detectable HIV viral load (among HIV-positive). Models controlled for confirmed HIV-serostatus. RESULTS Prevalence of reported monthly or less methamphetamine use was 19%; weekly or more use was 18%. Multivariable models showed escalating odds of adverse social outcomes and sexual risk behaviors (p's < 0.001) with increased methamphetamine use frequency. Frequency of methamphetamine use associated with increased odds of a positive bacterial STI test (p < .001), detectable viral load (in HIV-positive participants) (p < .001), renal condition (p = .047), neurological condition (p = .008), and psychological condition (p = .001). CONCLUSIONS Findings show cross-sectional links between reported methamphetamine use frequency and adverse social and health outcomes among MSM in Los Angeles and suggest there may be fewer social and physical health harms corresponding to less frequent use of methamphetamine in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Shoptaw
- David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, United States; David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, United States.
| | - Michael J. Li
- David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Amy Ragsdale
- Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - David Goodman-Meza
- David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of California, Los Angeles
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Liu Y, Bleasdale J, Przybyla S, Higgins MC, Zhang C. Racial Variations in Psychosocial Vulnerabilities Linked to Differential Poppers Use and Associated HIV-Related Outcomes among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Study in Two U.S. Metropolitan Areas. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 57:560-568. [PMID: 35067175 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.2023185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background: Poppers use has become increasingly prevalent and is associated with elevated HIV risk among young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in urban settings. However, knowledge regarding racial variations of poppers use and their psychosocial determinants to inform culturally-targeted interventions remain limited. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among YMSM recruited from two US metropolitan areas (Nashville, TN and Buffalo, NY) to investigate the differences of socio-environmental and mental health factors associated with poppers use and important HIV-related outcomes [e.g., HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP, substance use, and risky sexual behaviors] among White and Black YMSM (i.e., YWMSM and YBMSM). Results: Among 347 YMSM aged 18-35 years, 32.3% reported poppers use. Notably, poppers-using YWMSM were more likely (p < 0.05) to report mental health burdens (e.g., depression, anxiety, loneliness), while poppers-using YBMSM were more likely (p < 0.05) to experience adverse social-environmental events (e.g., unstable housing, food insecurity, no health insurance, perceived HIV stigma, internalized homonegativity). Poppers-using YMSM showed a higher prevalence of sexual risk behaviors (e.g., event-level alcohol/drug use, condomless insertive/receptive anal sex, group sex) compared to their non-user counterparts, with YWMSM showing the highest likelihood to engage in these risk behaviors. Compared to poppers-using YBMSM, poppers-using YWMSM were associated with a higher likelihood of ever testing for HIV, ever using PrEP and willingness to use PrEP in the next 12 months. Conclusion: Given the distinctive patterns of psychosocial determinants of poppers use between YWMSM and YBMSM, culturally-tailored poppers reduction programs should be designed to tackle the associated HIV risks among YMSM with effectivenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jacob Bleasdale
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Sarahmona Przybyla
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | | | - Chen Zhang
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
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Harawa NT, Schrode KM, Daniels J, Javanbakht M, Hotton A, Makgoeng S, Ragsdale A, Schneider J, Fujimoto K, Bolan R, Gorbach P. Factors predicting incarceration history and incidence among Black and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) residing in a major urban center. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265034. [PMID: 35259198 PMCID: PMC8903243 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We analyzed data from a cohort of Black and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) in order to identify correlates of prevalent and incident incarceration, including potential predictors related to their status as sexual and gender minorities (SGMs). Baseline and follow-up self-administered survey data were examined from Los Angeles County participants' ages 18-45 years at enrollment who were either HIV negative or living with HIV, but recruited to over represent men who used drugs and men with unsuppressed HIV infection. Multivariable logistic regression models were developed to identify predictors of baseline incarceration history and of incident incarceration over study follow-up among 440 and 338 participants, respectively. Older age, Black race, low socioeconomic status, homelessness, stimulant use, and depression symptoms were associated with baseline incarceration history. The only SGM-related factor associated with baseline incarceration history was having experienced violence based on sexual orientation identity. Just one statistically significant, independent positive predictor of incident incarceration was identified: prior incarceration, whereas having four or more friends that could lend money was a statistically significant protective factor against incident incarceration. Fundamental Cause Theory provides a useful framework to explain identified predictors of incarceration. Addressing poverty, housing instability, inadequate access to health care, and their root causes is critical to reducing incarceration rates in this population, as is expanded access to both diversion and anti-recidivism programs and to evidence-based treatment for stimulant use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina T. Harawa
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, College of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Katrina M. Schrode
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, College of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Joseph Daniels
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, College of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Anna Hotton
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Solomon Makgoeng
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Amy Ragsdale
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - John Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Kayo Fujimoto
- Division of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Robert Bolan
- Department of Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Pamina Gorbach
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
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Aguilera-Mijares S, Sang JM, Wang L, Barath J, Card KG, Lachowsky NJ, Lal A, Roth E, Hogg RS, Moore DM. Variations in Sexual Behaviors by Use of Specific Substances Among Vancouver Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men: An Event-Level Analysis. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:2875-2886. [PMID: 34561794 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02068-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Event-level studies measure substance use and sexual behaviors happening during a specific sexual encounter, ensuring that both variables are temporally paired. This study explored the event-level associations between a range of sexual behaviors (masturbation, anal sex, oral sex, rimming, fisting, sex toys, and group sex) and five sexualized substances (poppers, methamphetamine, GHB, ecstasy/MDMA, and ketamine) used during 11,582 sexual events reported by 762 gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in Vancouver, Canada. Data were obtained from a prospective cohort of GBMSM who self-reported their behaviors via computer-based questionnaires on their last sexual encounter with up to five of their most recent partners in the past six months. These clustered data were analyzed with multivariable generalized linear mixed models. Participants reported popper use in 16.1% of sexual encounters, methamphetamine in 8.6%, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) in 4.1%, ecstasy/3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in 3.3%, and ketamine in 1.5%. Condomless receptive anal sex (25.0% of events) was associated with increased odds of using poppers, methamphetamine, GHB, and ecstasy/MDMA. Group sex (13.1% of events) and sharing sex toys (2.0% of events) were more likely with the use of all five substances. Receiving money/drugs/goods in exchange for sex (2.5% of events) was associated with increased odds of poppers, methamphetamine, GHB, and ecstasy/MDMA use. GBMSM living with HIV (29.9% of participants) had higher odds of using poppers, methamphetamine, and GHB, but lower odds of using ecstasy/MDMA. In conclusion, these event-level results suggest public health strategies are needed to address the possible negative impacts of sexualized substance use among GBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Aguilera-Mijares
- Health Services and Systems Innovation, National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Jordan M Sang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Lu Wang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Justin Barath
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kiffer G Card
- Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Nathan J Lachowsky
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Allan Lal
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Eric Roth
- Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Robert S Hogg
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - David M Moore
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Pazzini M, Ignácz ZS, Tuppat J. Underlying factors related to HIV/AIDS prevention: investigating the willingness to take pre-exposure prophylaxis among men-who-have-sex-with-men in Germany. AIDS Res Ther 2021; 18:61. [PMID: 34535178 PMCID: PMC8447767 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-021-00386-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigates the willingness of men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) to use HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Research in the HIV/AIDS field typically relies on clinical and epidemiological studies, thereby often excluding social dimensions of the illness as well as factors explaining its prevention. The current study analyzes HIV-prevention through an interdisciplinary theoretical approach. It aims to comprehensively understand the mechanisms associated with the willingness to take PrEP among MSM in terms of psychological, social, behavioral, cultural, and demographic factors. METHODS We analyze data from the survey "Gay Men and AIDS" conducted in Germany in 2013 prior to market approval for PrEP. Analyses were performed using the statistical software SPSS 25.0, while results were visualized using the R programming language. RESULTS We find that perceived risk of infection, social norms (anticipated HIV-stigma), practices (e.g. regular condomless sex), and socio-demographic factors (young age, being single) all have a positive effect on the willingness to take PrEP, while education reveals a negative, and income no effect. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that beyond well-established socio-psychological mechanisms of health behavior, social factors play a crucial role in understanding the willingness of PrEP uptake. This study enriches existing health behavior theories with sociological concepts such as social norms and social practices.
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van Dijk M, de Wit JBF, Guadamuz TE, Martinez JE, Jonas KJ. Slow Uptake of PrEP: Behavioral Predictors and the Influence of Price on PrEP Uptake Among MSM with a High Interest in PrEP. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:2382-2390. [PMID: 33611697 PMCID: PMC8222036 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03200-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Despite the improved availability and affordability of PrEP in the Netherlands, PrEP uptake is low among men who have sex with men (MSM). To optimize uptake, it is important to identify facilitators and barriers of PrEP use. During our study period, the price of PrEP dropped significantly after generic PrEP was introduced. We investigated whether the price drop predicts PrEP uptake, alongside behavioral and demographic characteristics. Participants (N = 349) were recruited online and completed three questionnaires over a period of 6 months, between February 2017 and March 2019. After 6 months, 159 (45.6%) participants were using PrEP. PrEP uptake was greater among MSM who ever had postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) treatment, among MSM with a better perceived financial situation, and when the price of PrEP dropped. MSM in a tighter perceived financial situation may use PrEP more when it would be free or fully reimbursed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mart van Dijk
- Department of Work & Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - John B F de Wit
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas E Guadamuz
- Department of Society and Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Joel E Martinez
- Department of Psychology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Kai J Jonas
- Department of Work & Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Swendeman D, Sumstine S, Aguilar E, Gorbach PM, Comulada WS, Gelberg L. Feasibility and Acceptability of Mobile Phone Self-monitoring and Automated Feedback to Enhance Telephone Coaching for People With Risky Substance Use: The QUIT-Mobile Pilot Study. J Addict Med 2021; 15:120-129. [PMID: 32732684 PMCID: PMC7855429 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000707] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study evaluates the feasibility, acceptability, and perceived benefits of mobile-phone delivered self-monitoring queries and feedback integrated into the evidence-based Quit Using Drugs Intervention Trial (QUIT) screening and brief telephone health coaching intervention to prevent progression from risky drug use to addiction as the QUIT-Mobile intervention. METHODS Participants (n = 20) were primarily Black/African American and Latino men in Los Angeles with risky substance use. Self-monitoring surveys were sent by text-message twice-weekly for 6 weeks and once-weekly from 6 to 12-weeks. Surveys consisted of 10 questions regarding drug and alcohol use (ie, # days of use) and cravings, quality of life, and medication adherence. Feedback messages praised or encouraged drug use reductions. Coaches monitored patient responses and discussed them in QUIT's telephone coaching sessions. Participants' experiences were assessed qualitatively at 3-month follow-up. RESULTS Nineteen out of 20 participants that completed the qualitative evaluation from the 12-week follow-up reported: (1) self-monitoring surveys helped them adhere to drug use reduction goals and reflect on associations between self-monitoring domains; (2) preference for higher frequency (twice-weekly) self-monitoring during the 6-week coaching period, and then weekly surveys thereafter but not monthly; and (3) self-monitoring and coaching were mutually reinforcing for their drug use reduction goals. CONCLUSIONS Results are consistent with prior similar research suggesting that mobile phone self-monitoring of drug use and related factors is feasible and acceptable among diverse adults with risky drug use. Findings also suggest the potential benefits of integrating electronic self-monitoring and feedback into substance use reduction interventions such as QUIT to enhance patient self-management and coaching or counseling intervention components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallas Swendeman
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, 10920 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 350, Los Angeles, CA 90024
| | - Stephanie Sumstine
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, 10920 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 350, Los Angeles, CA 90024
| | - Efren Aguilar
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10880 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1800, Los Angeles, CA 90024
| | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Box 951772, Los Angeles, California 90095-1772
| | - W. Scott Comulada
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, 10920 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 350, Los Angeles, CA 90024
| | - Lillian Gelberg
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10880 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1800, Los Angeles, CA 90024
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36
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Eubanks A, Dembélé Keita B, Anoma C, Dah TTE, Mensah E, Maradan G, Bourrelly M, Mora M, Riegel L, Rojas Castro D, Yaya I, Spire B, Laurent C, Sagaon-Teyssier L. Reaching a Different Population of MSM in West Africa With the Integration of PrEP Into a Comprehensive Prevention Package (CohMSM-PrEP ANRS 12369-Expertise France). J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 85:292-301. [PMID: 32732768 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In West Africa, few HIV services target men who have sex with men (MSM). In 2015, the interventional cohort CohMSM started offering a community-based prevention package for MSM. Participants expressed interest in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and their eligibility was demonstrated. In 2017, PrEP was added to services already offered as part of a new program, CohMSM-PrEP, which recruited CohMSM participants and new participants. We aimed to determine whether the introduction of PrEP as an additional prevention tool influenced the type of participant signing up for CohMSM-PrEP. METHODS CohMSM-PrEP recruited HIV-negative MSM in community-based clinics in Mali, Cote d'Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Togo. Quarterly follow-up included free clinical examinations, PrEP, HIV/sexually transmitted infection screening, peer education, condoms, and lubricants. Sociobehavioral data were collected every 3 months using face-to-face questionnaires. Our outcome was participant type: new participants vs CohMSM participants. Logistic regression was performed to identify the factors associated with being a new participant. RESULTS Of the 524 MSM included in CohMSM-PrEP, 41% were new participants. After adjustment, multivariate analysis showed they were more socioeconomically disadvantaged with financial insecurity, social isolation-including isolation within the MSM community-and riskier sexual practices. CONCLUSION The introduction of PrEP as an additional prevention tool and the use of peer-based outreach services over time influenced the type of participant signing up for a community-based HIV prevention cohort in West Africa. Adding these elements to existing interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa could be the key to reaching MSM marginalized from HIV prevention and care programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- August Eubanks
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,ORS PACA, Observatoire régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Ter T E Dah
- Association African Solidarité, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.,Institut National de Santé Publique, Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Gwenaëlle Maradan
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,ORS PACA, Observatoire régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Michel Bourrelly
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,ORS PACA, Observatoire régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Marion Mora
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,ORS PACA, Observatoire régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Lucas Riegel
- Coalition Plus, Community Research Laboratory Pantin, Pantin, France; and
| | - Daniela Rojas Castro
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,Coalition Plus, Community Research Laboratory Pantin, Pantin, France; and
| | - Issifou Yaya
- IRD, INSERM, Univ Montpellier, TransVIHMI, Montpellier, France
| | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,ORS PACA, Observatoire régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | | | - Luis Sagaon-Teyssier
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,ORS PACA, Observatoire régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
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Gorbach PM, Javanbakht M, Ragsdale A, Bolan RB, Flynn R, Mandler R, Shoptaw S. Methamphetamine Injection Among Young Men Who Have Sex With Men: Risk for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Transmission in a Los Angeles Cohort. J Infect Dis 2021; 222:S471-S476. [PMID: 32877561 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevalence of methamphetamine (meth) injection and associated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risks among men who have sex with men (MSM) are unclear. METHODS A total of 532 MSM completed 1880 mSTUDY study visits between August 2014 and June 2018 in Los Angeles, California. Assessments every 6 months included computer-assisted self-interviews and testing for sexually transmitted infections. Analyses by person and across visits adjusted for repeated measures. RESULTS Of 532 participants, 51% (n = 276) reported meth use (past 6 months). Across 1880 visits, mutually exclusive substance use categories were as follows: 5% meth injection (5%), meth use without injection (33%), other substance use excluding meth (36%), and no substance use (26%). Comparisons across these categories respectively found that meth injectors reported higher prevalence of new sex partners (89%, 70%, 68%, and 51%, respectively), more were HIV positive (83%, 65%, 34%, and 50%), fewer were virally suppressed (53%, 48%, 61%, and 67%), and more had sexually transmitted infections (31%, 22%, 15%, and 15% (all P <.01). CONCLUSIONS Among the young MSM reporting meth injection in this Los Angeles cohort, elevated risks of acquiring or transmitting HIV suggest that they contribute significantly to sustaining the local HIV epidemic. Preventing transition to injection use has potential for HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamina M Gorbach
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles,California, USA
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles,California, USA
| | - Amy Ragsdale
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles,California, USA
| | - Robert B Bolan
- Los Angeles LGBT Center, Risa Flynn, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Risa Flynn
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles,California, USA
| | | | - Steven Shoptaw
- UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
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38
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Meanley S, Chandler C, Jaiswal J, Flores DD, Stevens R, Connochie D, Bauermeister JA. Are Sexual Minority Stressors Associated with Young Men who Have Sex with Men's (YMSM) Level of Engagement in PrEP? Behav Med 2021; 47:225-235. [PMID: 32401184 PMCID: PMC7774673 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2020.1731675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sexual minority stressors (community homophobia, sexuality-related discrimination, and internalized homonegativity) are negatively associated with accessing HIV prevention services among men who have sex with men (MSM). Few studies have tested minority stressors' associations with PrEP engagement among high-HIV risk young MSM (YMSM). Therefore, we assessed the associations between PrEP-indicated YMSM's progression along the PrEP continuum and their experiences of minority stress. N = 229 YMSM completed a web-survey on PrEP-related behaviors and minority stress. Adjusted for covariates, we developed two partial-proportional odds models examining the associations between PrEP continuum progression and minority stressors, as a composite, and community homophobia, sexuality-related discrimination, and internalized homonegativity, respectively. Our multivariable model demonstrated minority stress levels to be negatively associated with PrEP continuum location (AOR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.58-0.99). Broken down, discrimination was positively associated with reporting being at an advanced location along the continuum (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.06-1.82). Internalized homonegativity was negatively associated with continuum location between PrEP-aware participants with no intention to initiate and participants who intended to initiate PrEP (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.27-0.77) and between those who intended to initiate and those who had ever used PrEP (AOR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.22-0.69). Our findings suggest that minority stress, especially internalized homonegativity, remains a barrier to PrEP among PrEP-indicated YMSM. Sexuality-related discrimination was associated with PrEP continuum progression, suggesting potentially well-developed, adaptive coping skills (e.g., ability to locate sexuality-affirming providers). Coupled with stigma reduction efforts, HIV prevention services aiming to promote PrEP should incorporate internalized homonegativity screenings and referrals into sexuality-affirming resources for PrEP-indicated YMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Meanley
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing,Research Education Institute for Diverse Scholars, Yale University School of Public Health Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS
| | - Cristian Chandler
- Research Education Institute for Diverse Scholars, Yale University School of Public Health Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS
| | - Jessica Jaiswal
- Research Education Institute for Diverse Scholars, Yale University School of Public Health Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS,Department of Health Sciences, University of Alabama
| | - Dalmacio D. Flores
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing,Research Education Institute for Diverse Scholars, Yale University School of Public Health Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS
| | - Robin Stevens
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
| | - Daniel Connochie
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
| | - José A. Bauermeister
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
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39
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Quinn B, Gorbach PM, Okafor CN, Heinzerling KG, Shoptaw S. Investigating possible syndemic relationships between structural and drug use factors, sexual HIV transmission and viral load among men of colour who have sex with men in Los Angeles County. Drug Alcohol Rev 2020; 39:116-127. [PMID: 32012373 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Past research investigating syndemic factors and HIV-related outcomes has overlooked the impact of structural conditions on behaviours linked with HIV transmission and disease progression. Given prevalent substance use among our sample, we explored whether four structural conditions indicative of social marginalisation and previously correlated with increased risk for HIV infection demonstrated syndemic (additive/synergistic) effects on: (i) HIV viral suppression; and (ii) self-reported involvement in sexual HIV transmission behaviours among a prospective cohort mostly comprising men of colour who have sex with men (MCSM; i.e. Latino/Hispanic and African American/black men) in Los Angeles County. DESIGN AND METHODS Data were collected between August 2014 and March 2017. The structural conditions of interest were: current unemployment, recent (≤6 months) incarceration history, 'unstable' accommodation (past month) and remote (>6 months) contact with health-care providers. Generalised estimating equations assessed possible additive effects of experiencing multiple structural conditions, and possible synergistic effects on the HIV-related outcomes. RESULTS Of 428 participants, nearly half (49%) were HIV-positive at baseline. Involvement in sexual HIV transmission risk behaviours varied over follow-up (22-30%). Reporting ≥2 structural syndemic conditions was significantly associated with reporting sexual HIV transmission risk behaviours among HIV-negative participants, and detectable viral load among HIV-positive participants. Frequent methamphetamine use was consistently associated with the HIV-related outcomes across the final multivariate models. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS When developing initiatives to address HIV transmission among marginalised sub-populations including MCSM, we must holistically consider systemic and structural issues (e.g. unemployment and homelessness), especially in the context of prevalent substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Quinn
- Center for Behavioural and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.,Behaviours and Health Risks and Disease Elimination Programs, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Chukwuemeka N Okafor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Keith G Heinzerling
- Center for Behavioural and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
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40
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Takada S, Gorbach P, Brookmeyer R, Shoptaw S. Associations of social capital resources and experiences of homophobia with HIV transmission risk behavior and HIV care continuum among men who have sex with men in Los Angeles. AIDS Care 2020; 33:663-674. [PMID: 33050712 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1828798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
For men who have sex with men (MSM) in the US, the positive and negative aspects of social capital - access to resources within their social networks and experiences of homophobia - may explain their disproportionate burden of HIV infection. We analyzed data from 379 HIV seronegative and seropositive MSM in Los Angeles, collected between May 2017 and February 2018. Dependent variables were HIV transmission risk behaviors and care continuum outcomes. We used multivariable logistic regression to estimate the association between social capital resources and experiences of homophobia with dependent variables, adjusting for sociodemographics and drug use. Most participants were under age 40 and 41% identified as Black/African American and 36% as Hispanic/Latino. Social capital resources associated with likelihood of new sexually transmitted infections (-5.5% per standard deviation (SD), 95%CI -10.3, 0.7%) and HIV testing (5% per SD, 95%CI 0.8, 9.2%). Experiences of homophobia associated with likelihood of methamphetamine use during sex (10% per SD, 95%CI 7, 14%), receiving (4.3% per SD, 95%CI 1.9, 6.7%) and giving (7.2% per SD, 95%CI 4.5, 9.9%) exchange sex, and missing appointments (7.2% per SD, 95%CI 0.8, 13.6%). Findings that social capital associated with HIV transmission risk behaviors and HIV testing suggest interventions to increase social capital resources would impact the HIV-prevention continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sae Takada
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, & Policy, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pamina Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ron Brookmeyer
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Abstract
Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV infection in the USA. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a proven efficacious biomedical prevention strategy with the potential to alter significantly the course of the epidemic in this population. However, the social stigma attached to PrEP and those who use it may act as a barrier to the uptake and continuation of PrEP among high-risk BMSM. In-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 26 BMSM PrEP users to explore their experiences of stigma related to their PrEP use. BMSM reported multiple experiences or manifestations of PrEP-related stigma, which included (1) perception that PrEP users engage in elevated sexual risk behaviors; (2) conflicts in relationships attributed to PrEP; (3) experiences of discomfort or judgment from medical providers; (4) assumption that PrEP users are HIV-positive; and (5) gay stigma in families limiting PrEP disclosure. The experiences of stigma typically occur within the context of PrEP disclosure and have significant personal and social consequences for PrEP users. Efforts to address PrEP and other social-stigmas within the Black community may help facilitate PrEP uptake and continuation with BMSM.
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42
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Cassels S, Meltzer D, Loustalot C, Ragsdale A, Shoptaw S, Gorbach PM. Geographic Mobility, Place Attachment, and the Changing Geography of Sex among African American and Latinx MSM Who Use Substances in Los Angeles. J Urban Health 2020; 97:609-622. [PMID: 32996024 PMCID: PMC7560688 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00481-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The places that people go and interact with others, along with the characteristics of those places, determine degrees of sexual health risk and concomitant prevention opportunities for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). The objective of this paper is to use syndemic theory to guide analyses of 20 in-depth interviews with African American and Hispanic/Latinx MSM living in Los Angeles. We describe the places in which African American and Latinx MSM interviewees live and socialize, and how these places influence sexual behavior, drug use, and access to health care. We find common spatial patterns in mobility, incongruence in residential and sexual places, and differing geographic patterns of sex by men who use geo-social hook-up apps. Significant instability in home life and varying forms of mobility and risk-taking were a response to cumulative disadvantage and intersecting structural forces including poverty, racism, and homophobia. Our results strongly suggest that geographic mobility is a syndemic factor for HIV risk among MSM in Los Angeles, as mobility amplified negative impacts of other syndemic factors. Innovative place-interventions to reduce HIV incidence and disparities in HIV need to acknowledge the synergistic factors that drive higher HIV incidence among AA and Latinx MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Cassels
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA.
| | - Dan Meltzer
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Colin Loustalot
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Amy Ragsdale
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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43
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Braksmajer A, Zhang C, McMahon JM. Associations Between Relationship Power and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Use Among Men Who Have Sex With Men. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1358-1364. [PMID: 31732829 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02731-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have attempted to understand relationship-level factors impacting PrEP utilization among men who have sex with men (MSM). This study examined associations between relationship power and PrEP use among 826 MSM participating in a cross-sectional, Internet-based survey. The results of our analysis indicate that decision-making dominance was positively associated with PrEP use among MSM, but the association between relationship control/overall relationship power and PrEP use was inconclusive. Furthermore, when examining specific types of decision-making dominance, equal and greater dominance compared to one's partner regarding types of sexual activity engaged in, as well as dominance more generally, were positively associated with PrEP use. However, the relationships between decision-making dominance related to condom use/sexual initiation and PrEP use were inconclusive. This study suggests that the promotion of egalitarian relationships-as well as other relationship-level determinants-should be an essential component of biobehavioral interventions targeting this population.
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44
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Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Use and Medication Adherence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Systematic Review of the Literature. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2020; 30:e38-e61. [PMID: 31241514 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The appropriate use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) by men who have sex with men (MSM) can be highly effective at reducing HIV transmission. Our review examined prevalence estimates, sexual behaviors, and medication adherence among MSM PrEP users in high-income countries. Articles published between January 2008 and December 2018 were identified through Medline, Web of Science, CINAHL, and CENTRAL. The search identified 643 publications, of which 52 were included in the final synthesis. We found that PrEP initiation was not consistently associated with significant changes in sexual behavior, but some users may have risk compensated. A minority of MSM used PrEP, and they had high levels of adherence. PrEP-related stigma, side effects, and psychosocial factors lead to nonadherence. A daily routine, pill boxes, alarms/texts, and education can promote adherence. Further research is required to examine PrEP impact on sexual behavior and factors that influence adherence in high-risk MSM subpopulations.
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45
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Using Motivational Interviewing to Increase PrEP Uptake Among Black Women at Risk for HIV: an Open Pilot Trial of MI-PrEP. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2020; 7:913-927. [PMID: 32078743 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-020-00715-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Black women in the USA are at the highest risk among women for HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) prevents HIV transmission, but uptake among Black women remains low. An open pilot trial was conducted on MI-PrEP, a brief culturally tailored intervention incorporating motivational interviewing (MI) strategies to improve PrEP uptake and motivation. MI-PrEP is the first behavioral intervention developed to promote PrEP uptake among women in the USA. In Miami, FL, ten Black women who met eligibility criteria (e.g., sexual partner with HIV) were enrolled. These women participated in the two sessions of MI-PrEP and a 1-month follow-up. Participants completed measures on PrEP (motivation, uptake [verified via medical records], adherence, and barriers), medical mistrust, and an exit interview. These preliminary findings showed acceptability and feasibility with high satisfaction ratings; increases in PrEP uptake, knowledge, and motivation to use; and decreases in PrEP barriers and medical mistrust. Greater attention is needed on the psychosocial and structural factors among Black women who may benefit from PrEP.
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46
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Javanbakht M, Shoptaw S, Ragsdale A, Brookmeyer R, Bolan R, Gorbach PM. Depressive symptoms and substance use: Changes overtime among a cohort of HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 207:107770. [PMID: 31841750 PMCID: PMC6981056 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to examine depressive symptoms overtime and quantify the variance in symptoms attributable to substance use among a cohort of HIV-positive and HIV-negative men. METHODS Participants were enrolled in an NIH/NIDA funded cohort, with 534 men resulting in 1,888 visits between August 2014 and June 2018. Participants were between 18 and 45 years, and half were HIV-positive. At baseline and semi-annual visits, information was collected on depressive symptoms, sexual behaviors, and substance use. Changes overtime in symptom scores were evaluated using individual growth curve modeling. RESULTS The average CES-D20 score was 19.5 (SD = 12.7). Depressive symptoms were highest among daily/weekly methamphetamine users (56% vs. 39% occasional users and 27% non-users; p value<.01). Factors independently associated with depressive symptoms included methamphetamine use (adjusted OR = 1.5; 95% CI 1.1-2.3) and transactional sex (adjusted OR = 1.8; 95% CI 1.4-2.5). Based on growth curve modeling, methamphetamine was the most influential predictor of depressive symptoms, accounting for 10% of individual variance (p value<.01). Declines in depressive symptoms were noted for heavy users of a number of drugs, except for methamphetamine. For instance, those reporting daily/weekly heroin had a 3.38 point decline in CESD20 scores overtime (p value = 0.01). However, heavy methamphetamine users had much higher CESD20 scores and their scores remained high overtime (p value for change = 0.91). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of depressive symptoms among this cohort of HIV-negative and HIV-positive MSM was high, especially among frequent methamphetamine users. These findings suggest that reducing methamphetamine use may have the potential to reduce depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Javanbakht
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Amy Ragsdale
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Ron Brookmeyer
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA
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47
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Li MJ, Takada S, Okafor CN, Gorbach PM, Shoptaw SJ, Cole SW. Experienced homophobia and gene expression alterations in Black and Latino men who have sex with men in Los Angeles County. Brain Behav Immun 2020; 83:120-125. [PMID: 31563693 PMCID: PMC6906252 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) experience high rates of homophobic victimization, which is linked to myriad chronic physical and mental health disparities. Social adversity such as rejection, isolation, and racial discrimination can induce a conserved transcriptional response to adversity (CTRA) involving upregulation of proinflammatory genes and downregulation of type I interferon and antibody synthesis genes. This study specifically examines whether homophobic victimization is associated with expression of CTRA profiles in Black and Latino MSM living in Los Angeles. Analyses linked behavioral survey data with quantified RNA from leukocytes from blood samples of 70 participants over 12 months. CTRA gene expression was increased by 3.1-fold in MSM who experienced homophobic victimization while adjusting for major leukocyte subsets and sociodemographics. Accounting for all these factors, CTRA gene expression was significantly enhanced in MSM who identified as Black compared to Latino. Our findings identify experiences of homophobic victimization as drivers of inflammatory and type I interferon gene expression profiles, which can contribute to physical and mental health challenges in Black and Latino MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Sae Takada
- National Clinician Scholars Program UCLA, Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA,Veterans Affairs, Health Services Research & Development, Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, & Policy, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Chukwuemeka N. Okafor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Steven J. Shoptaw
- Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Steven W. Cole
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles
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48
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Westmoreland DA, Patel VV, D’Angelo AB, Nash D, Grov C. Sociocultural influences on attitudes towards pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), history of PrEP use, and future PrEP use in HIV-vulnerable cisgender men who have sex with men across the U.S. ANNALS OF LGBTQ PUBLIC AND POPULATION HEALTH 2020; 1:128-158. [PMID: 34296211 PMCID: PMC8294708 DOI: 10.1891/lgbtq-2020-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite its proven effectiveness in reducing HIV transmission, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use remains low. This study used data from a 2017-2018 U.S. national cohort to investigate social influences on PrEP experience and future PrEP use among cisgender men who have sex with men. We used descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic analyses to examine social influences (e.g., how participants heard about PrEP and number of persons they knew taking PrEP) associated with each previous PrEP use and intentions to use PrEP. Among participants who knew of PrEP, commonly reported ways of first hearing about PrEP were through social media (27.4%) and friends (26.8%). These were also cited top influences on participants' current attitudes toward PrEP (friends 23.5%, social media 22.1%). Multivariable logistic regression analyses found that knowing more people taking PrEP was associated with increased odds of previously using PrEP and intending to use PrEP. Friends and social media were common and influential sources of information regarding PrEP. Results suggest that tapping into these social connections may effectively disseminate public health messaging about PrEP and encourage use among key populations to reduce HIV burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew A. Westmoreland
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Viraj V. Patel
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Montefiore Health System, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Alexa B. D’Angelo
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
| | - Denis Nash
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
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Experiences of Anticipated and Enacted Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Stigma Among Latino MSM in Los Angeles. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:1964-1973. [PMID: 30649635 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02397-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) are a group critically affected by HIV. Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a biomedical prevention strategy that can help reduce new infections in this population. However, PrEP use may expose users to experiences of PrEP-related stigma. In-depth interviews conducted with Latino MSM PrEP users (N = 29) were analyzed using thematic analysis to explore experiences of PrEP stigma. Six themes emerged related to anticipated and enacted PrEP stigma: (1) Perception that PrEP users engage in risky sexual behaviors; (2) PrEP-induced conflict in relationships; (3) Perception that PrEP users are HIV-positive; (4) Generational differences in attitudes toward HIV prevention; (5) Experiences of discomfort, judgment, or homophobia from medical providers; and (6) Gay stigma related to PrEP disclosure to family. Manifestations of stigma included disapproving judgment, negative labeling, rejection, and devaluing individuals. The social consequences associated with using PrEP may deter uptake and persistence among Latino MSM.
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Wheeler DP, Fields SD, Beauchamp G, Chen YQ, Emel LM, Hightow‐Weidman L, Hucks‐Ortiz C, Kuo I, Lucas J, Magnus M, Mayer KH, Nelson LE, Hendrix CW, Piwowar‐Manning E, Shoptaw S, Watkins P, Watson CC, Wilton L. Pre-exposure prophylaxis initiation and adherence among Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in three US cities: results from the HPTN 073 study. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25223. [PMID: 30768776 PMCID: PMC6376611 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Randomized clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in preventing HIV acquisition among men who have sex with men (MSM). However, limited research has examined initiation and adherence to PrEP among Black MSM (BMSM) in the United States (US) who are disproportionately represented among newly HIV infected and late to care individuals. This research reports on the HIV Prevention Trials Network 073 (HPTN 073) study aimed to examine PrEP initiation, utilization and adherence among Black MSM utilizing the theoretically principled, culturally informed and client-centered care coordination (C4) model. METHODS The HPTN 073 study enrolled and followed 226 HIV-uninfected Black MSM in three US cities (Los Angeles, CA; Washington DC; and Chapel Hill, NC) from February 2013 through September 2015. Study participants were offered once daily oral emtricitabine/tenofovir (FTC/TDF) PrEP combined with C4 and followed up for 52 weeks. Participants received HIV testing, risk reduction education and clinical monitoring. RESULTS Of the 226 men enrolled, 178 participants initiated PrEP (79%), and of these 64% demonstrated PrEP utilization at week 26 (mid-point of the study) based on pharmacokinetic testing. Condomless anal sex with an HIV-infected or unknown status casual male partner was statistically significantly associated with a greater likelihood of PrEP initiation (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 4.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.7, 11.7). Greater age (≥25 vs. <25, OR 2.95, 95% CI 1.37 -6.37), perception of having enough money (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.7 to 7.7) and knowledge of male partner taking PrEP before sex (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.03 to 4.79) were statistically significantly associated with increased likelihood of PrEP adherence at week 26. Annualized HIV incidence was 2.9 (95% CI 1.2 to 7.9) among those who initiated PrEP, compared to 7.7 (95% CI 2.5 to 24.1) among those who did not initiate PrEP (p = 0.18). CONCLUSIONS Results suggest a high level of PrEP initiation among at-risk Black MSM, a group historically characterized as hard to reach. The data support the importance of addressing contextual factors that affect PrEP initiation and adherence, and of additional research on the ultimate benefit of PrEP in HIV prevention among Black MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sheldon D Fields
- School of Health ProfessionsNew York Institute of TechnologyNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Geetha Beauchamp
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research & Prevention (SCHARP)Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division (VIDD)Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattleWAUSA
| | - Ying Q Chen
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research & Prevention (SCHARP)Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division (VIDD) and Public Health Sciences DivisionFred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattleWAUSA
| | - Lynda M Emel
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research & Prevention (SCHARP)Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division (VIDD)Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattleWAUSA
| | - Lisa Hightow‐Weidman
- Division of Infectious DiseasesUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
| | | | - Irene Kuo
- Department of Epidemiology and BiostatisticsMilken Institute School of Public HealthGeorge Washington UniversityWashingtonDCUSA
| | | | - Manya Magnus
- Department of Epidemiology and BiostatisticsMilken Institute School of Public HealthGeorge Washington UniversityWashingtonDCUSA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway InstituteFenway HealthBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterBostonMAUSA
| | - LaRon E Nelson
- School of NursingUniversity of RochesterRochesterNYUSA
- Centre for Urban Health SolutionsLi Ka Shing Knowledge InstituteSt. Michael's HospitalTorontoONCanada
| | - Craig W Hendrix
- Department of Medicine (Clinical Pharmacology)John Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Estelle Piwowar‐Manning
- Department of PathologyJohn Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMDUSA
- Present address:
CRS director for the GWU site and HPTN Black Caucus Chair
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family MedicineDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los Angeles (UCLA)Los AngelesCAUSA
| | | | | | - Leo Wilton
- Department of Human DevelopmentState University of New York at BinghamtonBinghamtonNYUSA
- Faculty of HumanitiesUniversity of JohannesburgJohannesburgSouth Africa
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