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Roche SD, Were D, Crawford ND, Tembo A, Pintye J, Bukusi E, Ngure K, Ortblad KF. Getting HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) into Private Pharmacies: Global Delivery Models and Research Directions. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024; 21:116-130. [PMID: 38517671 PMCID: PMC11129962 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00696-y] [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: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an overview of the current state of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery via private sector pharmacies globally, to discuss the context-specific factors that have influenced the design and implementation of different pharmacy-based PrEP delivery models in three example settings, and to identify future research directions. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple high- and low-income countries are implementing or pilot testing PrEP delivery via private pharmacies using a variety of delivery models, tailored to the context. Current evidence indicates that pharmacy-based PrEP services are in demand and generally acceptable to clients and pharmacy providers. Additionally, the evidence suggests that with proper training and oversight, pharmacy providers are capable of safely initiating and managing clients on PrEP. The delivery of PrEP services at private pharmacies also achieves similar levels of PrEP initiation and continuation as traditional health clinics, but additionally reach individuals underserved by such clinics (e.g., young men; minorities), making pharmacies well-positioned to increase overall PrEP coverage. Implementation of pharmacy-based PrEP services will look different in each context and depend not only on the state of the private pharmacy sector, but also on the extent to which key needs related to governance, financing, and regulation are addressed. Private pharmacies are a promising delivery channel for PrEP in diverse settings. Countries with robust private pharmacy sectors and populations at HIV risk should focus on aligning key areas related to governance, financing, and regulation that have proven critical to pharmacy-based PrEP delivery while pursuing an ambitious research agenda to generate information for decision-making. Additionally, the nascency of pharmacy-based PrEP delivery in both high- and low-and-middle-income settings presents a prime opportunity for shared learning and innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie D Roche
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.
| | | | - Natalie D Crawford
- Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Angela Tembo
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jillian Pintye
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Elizabeth Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Katrina F Ortblad
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
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Perez-Urbano I, Dilraj A, Pitsi A, Hlongwane N, Abdelatif N, Dietrich J, Ahmed K. Strategies to Close the PrEP Uptake Gap Among Transgender People and Men Who Have Sex with Men in Tshwane, South Africa: Perspectives from the Community. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1999-2014. [PMID: 38427124 PMCID: PMC11161427 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04300-7] [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: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake among transgender (TG) people and gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) remains low, despite South Africa being the first African country to approve PrEP. This mixed-methods study used a two-phase explanatory sequential design: (1) quantitative analysis of cross-sectional surveys followed by (2) qualitative in-depth interviews. This study explored facilitators and barriers to PrEP uptake to identify strategies to increase utilization in these key populations. We conducted 202 cross-sectional surveys and 20 in-depth interviews between July 2021 and March 2022 in Soshanguve, Tshwane, Gauteng. Quantitative data were analyzed using univariate logistic regression; thematic analysis was performed for qualitative data. Findings show high willingness to use PrEP but low PrEP uptake. We outline strategies to facilitate PrEP use: (1) demystify daily PrEP by deploying community-engaged PrEP education campaigns; (2) capitalize on existing peer networks; and (3) expand accessible and culturally responsive PrEP service delivery models. We provide feasible recommendations to close the PrEP uptake gap in these key populations in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- India Perez-Urbano
- University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | | | - Annah Pitsi
- Setshaba Research Centre, Tshwane, Soshanguve, South Africa
| | | | - Nada Abdelatif
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Janan Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- African Social Sciences Unit of Research and Evaluation (ASSURE), Wits Health Consortium, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Khatija Ahmed
- Setshaba Research Centre, Tshwane, Soshanguve, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Tshwane, South Africa
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Heck CJ, Dam A, Yohannes K, Deacon J, Kripke K, Meyers K, Poku O, Obermeyer C, Wiant S, Quigee D, Larson M, Malati C, Sobieszczyk ME, Torres-Rueda S, Castor D. Lessons learnt from daily oral PrEP delivery to inform national planning for PrEP ring introduction for women in low-income and middle-income countries: a qualitative inquiry of international stakeholders. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e014709. [PMID: 38770814 PMCID: PMC11085820 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-014709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Some African countries plan to introduce and scale-up new long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis methods (LA-PrEP), like the monthly dapivirine vaginal ring (PrEP ring) and injectable cabotegravir. National costed implementation plans, roadmaps for successful product implementation, are often overlooked. International stakeholders engaged in oral PrEP planning, introduction and scale-up are an information resource of lessons learned to advise LA-PrEP planning. We consulted such international stakeholders and synthesised oral PrEP lessons to inform the development of a costed rollout plan template for LA-PrEP. METHODS From selected global health organisations (five international nongovernmental, four donor, four university/research and two multilateral), we interviewed 27 representatives based in America, Europe, Asia and Africa about strategic content and approaches for LA-PrEP policy, programming and implementation. We conducted a thematic analysis of the interview data for implementation considerations. RESULTS From the consultations, we identified six implementation themes for LA-PrEP introduction and scale-up: (1) ethically increasing choice and avoiding coercion; (2) de-stigmatising PrEP by focusing on preference rather than risk-based eligibility; (3) integrating LA-PrEP into services that are more woman-oriented, couple-oriented and family-oriented, and providing private spaces for LA-PrEP delivery; (4) de-medicalising delivery of relatively safe products (eg, PrEP ring); (5) constructing multilevel, nuanced communication strategies to address measured and perceived product efficacy and effectiveness; and (6) devising product-agnostic, modular approaches to service delivery. Despite the widespread emphasis on integration, few stakeholders offered empirical examples of successful integration approaches and frameworks. CONCLUSIONS Lessons learnt from stakeholder participants suggest standardised and modular processes can improve efficiencies in LA-PrEP planning and implementation. Tiered communication strategies addressing product efficacy and effectiveness will improve clients' and providers' efficacy in making informed decisions. Integration is important for LA-PrEP delivery, but data on empirical integration approaches and frameworks is minimal: further research in this discipline is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig J Heck
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Anita Dam
- United States Agency for International Development, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Kibret Yohannes
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | | | | | - Kathrine Meyers
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ohemaa Poku
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Sarah Wiant
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniela Quigee
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Christine Malati
- United States Agency for International Development, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | | | | | - Delivette Castor
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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Awuoche HC, Joseph RH, Magut F, Khagayi S, Odongo FS, Otieno M, Appolonia A, Odoyo-June E, Kwaro DO. Prevalence and risk factors of sexually transmitted infections in the setting of a generalized HIV epidemic-a population-based study, western Kenya. Int J STD AIDS 2024; 35:418-429. [PMID: 38240604 PMCID: PMC11047016 DOI: 10.1177/09564624241226487] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause adverse health outcomes, including increasing HIV acquisition/transmission risk. We analyzed data from an HIV biomarker and behavioral survey to estimate STI prevalence, and explore associated factors in the setting of a generalized HIV epidemic in Siaya County, western Kenya. METHODS Data were collected in March-September 2022 through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires; records from 9643 sexually active participants aged 13+ years were included in the analysis. We calculated weighted self-reported STI prevalence, by sex, age, and HIV status and explored associated factors using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Median age was 37 years and 59.9% were female; HIV prevalence was 18.0%. Overall STI prevalence was 1.8%; 1.5-fold higher among males vs. females, and 2.6-fold higher among participants living with HIV vs. those without. HIV status and multiple sexual partners were independently associated with STI in both sexes. Mind-altering substance use and being circumcised were associated with STI among males. CONCLUSIONS This study estimates STI prevalence in the setting of high HIV prevalence. Findings underscore the importance of: effective STI screening in HIV clinics and HIV testing and counseling in STI clinics; screening and counseling on substance use, and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis; and intensive sexual health counseling in male circumcision programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hellen Carolyne Awuoche
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Centre for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Rachael H Joseph
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Faith Magut
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Centre for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Sammy Khagayi
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Centre for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Fredrick S Odongo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Centre for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Moses Otieno
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Centre for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Aoko Appolonia
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elijah Odoyo-June
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel O Kwaro
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Centre for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu, Kenya
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Mpirirwe R, Segawa I, Ojiambo KO, Kamacooko O, Nangendo J, Semitala FC, Kyambadde P, Kalyango JN, Kiragga A, Karamagi C, Katahoire A, Kamya M, Mujugira A. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake, retention and adherence among female sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e076545. [PMID: 38670600 PMCID: PMC11057315 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076545] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake, retention and adherence among female sex workers (FSWs) receiving care through community and facility delivery models in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES We searched online databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Web of Science) between January 2012 and 3 April 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR STUDIES Randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional studies and quasi-experimental studies with PrEP uptake, adherence and retention outcomes among FSWs in SSA. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Seven coders extracted data. The framework of the Cochrane Consumers and Communication Review Group guided data synthesis. The Risk of Bias In Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model. A narrative synthesis was performed to analyse the primary outcomes of PrEP uptake, adherence and retention. RESULTS Of 8538 records evaluated, 23 studies with 40 669 FSWs were included in this analysis. The pooled proportion of FSWs initiating PrEP was 70% (95% CI: 56% to 85%) in studies that reported on facility-based models and 49% (95% CI: 10% to 87%) in community-based models. At 6 months, the pooled proportion of FSWs retained was 66% (95% CI: 15% to 100%) for facility-based models and 83% (95% CI: 75% to 91%) for community-based models. Factors associated with increased PrEP uptake were visiting a sex worker programme (adjusted OR (aOR) 2.92; 95% CI: 1.91 to 4.46), having ≥10 clients per day (aOR 1.71; 95% CI: 1.06 to 2.76) and lack of access to free healthcare in government-run health clinics (relative risk: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.06 to 1.26). CONCLUSIONS A hybrid approach incorporating both facility-based strategies for increasing uptake and community-based strategies for improving retention and adherence may effectively improve PrEP coverage among FSWs. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020219363.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Mpirirwe
- Clinical Epidemiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ivan Segawa
- Clinical Epidemiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kevin Ouma Ojiambo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Africa Center for Systematic Reviews and Knowledge Translation, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | - Joan N Kalyango
- Clinical Epidemiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agnes Kiragga
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Karamagi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anne Katahoire
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Kebede S, Brazier E, Freeman AM, Muwonge TR, Choi JY, de Waal R, Poda A, Cesar C, Munyaneza A, Kasozi C, Pasayan MKU, Althoff KN, Shongo A, Low N, Ekouevi D, Veloso VG, Ross J. Preexposure prophylaxis availability among health facilities participating in the global International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) consortium. AIDS 2024; 38:751-756. [PMID: 38133656 PMCID: PMC10939841 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003824] [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: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While recognized as a key HIV prevention strategy, preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) availability and accessibility are not well documented globally. We aimed to describe PrEP drug registration status and the availability of PrEP services across HIV care sites participating in the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) research consortium. METHODS We used country-level PrEP drug registration status from the AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition and data from IeDEA surveys conducted in 2014, 2017 and 2020 among participating HIV clinics in seven global regions. We used descriptive statistics to assess PrEP availability across IeDEA sites serving adult patients in 2020 and examined trends in PrEP availability among sites that responded to all three surveys. RESULTS Of 199 sites that completed the 2020 survey, PrEP was available in 161 (81%). PrEP availability was highest at sites in North America (29/30; 97%) and East Africa (70/74; 95%) and lowest at sites in Central (10/20; 50%) and West Africa (1/6; 17%). PrEP availability was higher among sites in countries where PrEP was officially registered (146/161; 91%) than where it was not (14/32; 44%). Availability was higher at health centers (109/120; 90%) and district hospitals (14/16; 88%) compared to regional/teaching hospitals (36/63). Among the 94 sites that responded to all three surveys, PrEP availability increased from 47% in 2014 to 60% in 2017 and 76% in 2020. CONCLUSION PrEP availability has substantially increased since 2014 and is now available at most IeDEA sites. However, PrEP service provision varies markedly across global regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Kebede
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ellen Brazier
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Jun Yong Choi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Renee de Waal
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Armel Poda
- Hôpital de Jour, Service des Maladies Infectieuses, CHU Sourô Sanou, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | | | | | - Keri N Althoff
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alisho Shongo
- School of Public Health, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Nicola Low
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Valdiléa G. Veloso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Rio de Janerio, Brazil
| | - Jonathan Ross
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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Rutstein SE, Muessig KE. Leveling Up PrEP: Implementation Strategies at System and Structural Levels to Expand PrEP Use in the United States. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024; 21:52-61. [PMID: 38517670 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00697-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: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Despite highly effective biomedical HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) options, suboptimal PrEP uptake impedes progress towards ending the epidemic in the United States of America (USA). Implementation science bridges what we know works in controlled clinical trial settings to the context and environment in which efficacious tools are intended to be deployed. In this review, we focus on strategies that target PrEP use barriers at the system or structural level, exploring the implications and opportunities in the context of the fragmented USA healthcare system. RECENT FINDINGS Task shifting could increase PrEP prescribers, but effectiveness evidence is scarce in the USA, and generally focused in urban settings. Integration of PrEP within existing healthcare infrastructure concentrates related resources, but demonstration projects rarely present the resource implications of redirecting staff. Changing the site of service via expanded telehealth could improve access to more rural populations, though internet connectivity, technology access, and challenges associated with determining biomedical eligibility remain logistical barriers for some of the highest burden communities in the USA. Finally, a tailored care navigation and coordination approach has emerged as a highly effective component of PrEP service provision, attempting to directly modify the system-level determinants of PrEP use experienced by the individual. We highlight recent advances and evidence surrounding task shifting, integration, service delivery, and tailoring. With the exception of tailored care navigation, evidence is mixed, and the downstream impact and sustainability of task shifting and care integration require further attention. To maximize PrEP outcomes, research will need to continue to examine the interplay between individuals, clinics, and the healthcare system and associated policies within which they operate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Rutstein
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, 130 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- Institute On Digital Health and Innovation, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
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Wyatt MA, Pisarski EE, Nalumansi A, Kasiita V, Kamusiime B, Nalukwago GK, Thomas D, Muwonge TR, Mujugira A, Heffron R, Ware NC. How PrEP delivery was integrated into public ART clinics in central Uganda: A qualitative analysis of implementation processes. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002916. [PMID: 38452111 PMCID: PMC10919847 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Tailored delivery strategies are important for optimizing the benefit and overall reach of PrEP in sub-Saharan Africa. An integrated approach of delivering time-limited PrEP in combination with ART to serodifferent couples encourages PrEP use in the HIV-negative partner as a bridge to sustained ART use. Although PrEP has been delivered in ART clinics for many years, the processes involved in integrating PrEP into ART services are not well understood. The Partners PrEP Program was a stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial of integrated PrEP and ART delivery for HIV serodifferent couples in 12 public health facilities in central Uganda (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03586128). Using qualitative data, we identified and characterized key implementation processes that explain how PrEP delivery was integrated into existing ART services in the Partners PrEP Program. In-depth interviews were conducted with a purposefully-selected sub-sample of 83 members of 42 participating serodifferent couples, and with 36 health care providers implementing integrated delivery. High quality training, technical supervision, and teamwork were identified as key processes supporting providers to implement PrEP delivery. Interest in the PrEP program was promoted through the numerous ways health care providers made integrated ART and PrEP meaningful for serodifferent couples, including tailored counseling messages, efforts to build confidence in integrated delivery, and strategies to create demand for PrEP. Couples in the qualitative sample responded positively to providers' efforts to promote the integrated strategy. HIV-negative partners initiated PrEP to preserve their relationships, which inspired their partners living with HIV to recommit to ART adherence. Lack of disclosure among couples and poor retention on PrEP were identified as barriers to implementation of the PrEP program. A greater emphasis on understanding the meaning of PrEP for users and its contribution to implementation promises to strengthen future research on PrEP scale up in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique A. Wyatt
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard Global, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Emily E. Pisarski
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - Vicent Kasiita
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brenda Kamusiime
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Dorothy Thomas
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | - Andrew Mujugira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Norma C. Ware
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Zewdie KB, Ngure K, Mwangi M, Mwangi D, Maina S, Etyang L, Maina G, Ogello V, Owidi E, Mugo NR, Baeten JM, Mugwanya KK. Effect of differentiated direct-to-pharmacy PrEP refill visits supported with client HIV self-testing on clinic visit time and early PrEP continuation. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26222. [PMID: 38446643 PMCID: PMC10935714 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26222] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Delivery of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is being scaled up in Africa, but clinic-level barriers including lengthy clinic visits may threaten client continuation on PrEP. METHODS Between January 2020 and January 2022, we conducted a quasi-experimental evaluation of differentiated direct-to-pharmacy PrEP refill visits at four public health HIV clinics in Kenya. Two clinics implemented the intervention package, which included direct-to-pharmacy for PrEP refill, client HIV self-testing (HIVST), client navigator, and pharmacist-led rapid risk assessment and dispensing. Two other clinics with comparable size and client volume served as contemporaneous controls with the usual clinic flow. PrEP continuation was evaluated by visit attendance and pharmacy refill records, and time and motion studies were conducted to determine time spent in the clinics. Dried blood spots were collected to test for tenofovir-diphosphate (TFV-DP) at random visits. We used logistic regression to assess the intervention effect on PrEP continuation and the Wilcoxon rank sum test to assess the effect on clinic time. RESULTS Overall, 746 clients were enrolled, 366 at control clinics (76 during pre-implementation and 290 during implementation phase), and 380 at direct-to-pharmacy clinics (116 during pre-implementation and 264 during implementation phase). Prior to implementation, the intervention and control clinics were comparable on client characteristics (female: 51% vs. 47%; median age: 33 vs. 33 years) and PrEP continuation (35% vs. 37% at 1 month, and 37% vs. 39% at 3 months). The intervention reduced total time spent at the clinic by 35% (median of 51 minutes at control vs. 33 minutes at intervention clinics; p<0.001), while time spent on HIV testing (20 vs. 20 minutes; p = 0.50) and pharmacy (8 vs. 8 minutes; p = 0.8) was unchanged. PrEP continuation was higher at intervention versus the control clinics: 45% versus 33% at month 1, 34% versus 25% at month 3 and 23% versus 16% at month 6. TFV-DP was detected in 85% (61/72) of samples, similar by the study group (83% vs. 85%). CONCLUSIONS A client-centred PrEP delivery approach with direct-to-pharmacy PrEP refill visits plus client HIVST significantly reduced clinic visit time by more than one-third and improved PrEP continuation in public health HIV clinics in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kidist Belay Zewdie
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Community HealthJomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and TechnologyNairobiKenya
| | - Margaret Mwangi
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Dominic Mwangi
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Simon Maina
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Lydia Etyang
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Gakuo Maina
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Vallery Ogello
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Emmah Owidi
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Nelly R. Mugo
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Kenneth K. Mugwanya
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Rotsaert A, Vanhamel J, Vanbaelen T, Vuylsteke B, van der Loeff MS, Hensen B, Kielmann K, Callens S, Reyniers T. HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Care in Belgium: A mixed-methods Study on PrEP Users' Experiences and Service Delivery Preferences. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:393-407. [PMID: 38038778 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04232-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
In Belgium, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services are mainly provided through specialised HIV clinics. To optimise PrEP uptake and retention in care, we require insights into users' perspectives on PrEP care. We aimed to elicit experiences with, and preferences for, PrEP service delivery among PrEP users in Belgium, including willingness to involve their family physician (FP) in PrEP care. We adopted a sequential mixed-methods design. We used a web-based longitudinal study among 326 PrEP users that consisted of two questionnaires at six-month intervals, and complemented this with 21 semi-structured interviews (September 2020-January 2022). We conducted descriptive analyses and logistic regression to examine factors associated with willingness to involve their FP in PrEP care. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Survey respondents reported high satisfaction with care received in HIV clinics [median score 9 (IQR 8-10), 10='very satisfied']. Interviews revealed the importance of regular HIV/STI screening, and the expertise and stigma-free environment of HIV clinics. Yet, they also contextualised service delivery barriers reported in the questionnaire, including the burden of cost and challenges integrating PrEP visits into their private and professional lives. Although 63.8% (n = 208/326) of baseline respondents preferred attending an HIV clinic for PrEP follow-up, 51.9% (n = 108/208) of participants in the follow-up questionnaire reported to be willing to have their FP involved in PrEP care. Participants reporting trust in FPs' PrEP and sexual health expertise, or who didn't feel judged by their FP, were more likely to be willing to involve them in PrEP care. Therefore, we recommend a differentiated PrEP service delivery approach, including involving FPs, to make PrEP care more client-centred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Rotsaert
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
| | - Jef Vanhamel
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium.
| | - Thibaut Vanbaelen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
| | - Maarten Schim van der Loeff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AII), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute (APH), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bernadette Hensen
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
| | - Karina Kielmann
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
| | - Steven Callens
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
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Ortblad KF, Mogere P, Omollo V, Kuo AP, Asewe M, Gakuo S, Roche S, Mugambi M, Mugambi ML, Stergachis A, Odoyo J, Bukusi EA, Ngure K, Baeten JM. Stand-alone model for delivery of oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in Kenya: a single-arm, prospective pilot evaluation. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26131. [PMID: 37306128 PMCID: PMC10258863 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The delivery of daily, oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) at private pharmacies may overcome barriers to PrEP delivery at public healthcare facilities, including HIV-associated stigma, long wait times and overcrowding. METHODS At five private, community-based pharmacies in Kenya, a care pathway for PrEP delivery (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04558554) was piloted-the first of its kind in Africa. Pharmacy providers screened clients interested in PrEP for HIV risk, then used a prescribing checklist to identify clients without medical conditions that might contraindicate PrEP safety, counsel them on PrEP use and safety, conduct provider-assisted HIV self-testing and dispense PrEP. For complex clinical cases, a remote clinician was available for consultation. Clients who did not meet the checklist criteria were referred to public facilities for free services delivered by clinicians. Pharmacy providers dispensed a 1-month PrEP supply at initiation and a 3-month supply thereafter at a client fee of 300 KES (∼$3 USD) per visit. RESULTS From November 2020 to October 2021, pharmacy providers screened 575 clients, identified 476 who met the prescribing checklist criteria and initiated 287 (60%) on PrEP. Among pharmacy PrEP clients, the median age was 26 years (IQR 22-33) and 57% (163/287) were male. The prevalence of behaviours associated with HIV risk among clients was high; 84% (240/287) reported sexual partners with unknown HIV status and 53% (151/287) reported multiple sexual partners (past 6 months). PrEP continuation among clients was 53% (153/287) at 1 month, 36% (103/287) at 4 months and 21% (51/242) at 7 months. During the pilot observation period, 21% (61/287) of clients stopped and restarted PrEP and overall pill coverage was 40% (IQR 10%-70%). Nearly, all pharmacy PrEP clients (≥96%) agreed or strongly agreed with statements regarding the acceptability and appropriateness of pharmacy-delivered PrEP services. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this pilot suggest that populations at HIV risk frequently visit private pharmacies and PrEP initiation and continuation at pharmacies is similar to or exceeds that at public healthcare facilities. Private pharmacy-based PrEP delivery, conducted entirely by private-sector pharmacy staff, is a promising new delivery model that has the potential to expand PrEP reach in Kenya and similar settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina F. Ortblad
- Public Health Sciences DivisionFred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Peter Mogere
- Centre for Clinical ResearchKenya Medical Research InsitituteNairobiKenya
| | - Victor Omollo
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InsitituteNairobiKenya
| | - Alexandra P. Kuo
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Magdaline Asewe
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InsitituteNairobiKenya
| | - Stephen Gakuo
- Centre for Clinical ResearchKenya Medical Research InsitituteNairobiKenya
| | - Stephanie Roche
- Public Health Sciences DivisionFred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Mary Mugambi
- National AIDS and STI Control ProgrammeKenya Ministry of HealthNairobiKenya
| | | | - Andy Stergachis
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InsitituteNairobiKenya
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- School of Public HealthJomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and TechnologyNairobiKenya
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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12
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Haberer JE, Mujugira A, Mayer KH. The future of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis adherence: reducing barriers and increasing opportunities. Lancet HIV 2023:S2352-3018(23)00079-6. [PMID: 37178710 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(23)00079-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The effectiveness of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) hinges on adherence, which has been restricted by multifaceted barriers. Uptake of PrEP has been impeded by poor access resulting from high costs, provider uncertainty, discrimination, stigma, and poor understanding within the health-care community and the public of who can benefit from PrEP. Other important barriers to adherence and persistence over time relate to individuals (eg, depression) and their community, partners, and family (eg, poor support), and their effects vary substantially with each person, population, and setting. Despite these challenges, key opportunities for improving PrEP adherence exist, including novel delivery systems, tailored individual interventions, mobile health and digital health interventions, and long-acting formulations. Objective monitoring strategies will help to improve adherence interventions and alignment of PrEP use with the need for HIV prevention (ie, prevention-effective adherence). The future of PrEP adherence lies in person-centred approaches to service delivery that meet the needs of individuals while creating supportive environments and facilitating health-care access and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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Ramraj T, Chirinda W, Jonas K, Govindasamy D, Jama N, McClinton Appollis T, Zani B, Mukumbang FC, Basera W, Hlongwa M, Turawa EB, Mathews C, Nicol E. Service delivery models that promote linkages to PrEP for adolescent girls and young women and men in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e061503. [PMID: 36972966 PMCID: PMC10069497 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061503] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an emerging biomedical prevention intervention. Documenting PrEP service delivery models (SDMs) that promote linkage to and continuation of PrEP will inform guidelines and maximise roll-out. OBJECTIVES To synthesise and appraise the effectiveness and feasibility of PrEP SDMs designed to promote linkage to PrEP care among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and men in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Primary quantitative and qualitative studies published in English and conducted in SSA were included. No restrictions on the date of publication were applied. SOURCES OF EVIDENCE Methodology outlined in the Joanna Briggs Institute reviewers' manual was followed. PubMed, Cochrane library, Scopus, Web of Science and online-conference abstract archives were searched. CHARTING METHODS Data on article, population, intervention characteristics and key outcomes was charted in REDCap. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Of the 1204 identified records, 37 (met the inclusion criteria. Health facility-based integrated models of PrEP delivery with family planning, maternal and child health or sexual and reproductive services to AGYW resulted in PrEP initiation of 16%-90%. Community-based drop-in centres (66%) was the preferred PrEP outlet for AGYW compared with public clinics (25%) and private clinics (9%). Most men preferred community-based delivery models. Among individuals who initiated PrEP, 50% were men, 62% were <35 years old and 97% were tested at health fairs compared with home testing. Integrated antiretroviral therapy (ART)-PrEP delivery was favoured among serodiscordant couples with 82.9% of couples using PrEP or ART with no HIV seroconversions. PrEP initiation within healthcare facilities was increased by perceived client-friendly services and non-judgemental healthcare workers. Barriers to PrEP initiation included distance to travel to and time spent at health facilities and perceived community stigma. PrEP SDMs for AGYW and men need to be tailored to the needs and preferences for each group. Programme implementers should promote community-based SDMs to increase PrEP initiation among AGYW and men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Ramraj
- HIV and Other Infectious Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Witness Chirinda
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Kim Jonas
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
- Adolescent Health Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Darshini Govindasamy
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
- Adolescent Health Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Ngcwalisa Jama
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Tracy McClinton Appollis
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
- Adolescent Health Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Babalwa Zani
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Ferdinand C Mukumbang
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Wisdom Basera
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
- College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Eunice B Turawa
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Catherine Mathews
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
- Adolescent Health Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Edward Nicol
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, Western Cape, South Africa
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
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14
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Smith PJ, Daniels J, Bekker LG, Medina-Marino A. What motivated men to start PrEP? A cross-section of men starting PrEP in Buffalo city municipality, South Africa. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:418. [PMID: 36864381 PMCID: PMC9979577 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15306-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared to women, South African men are less likely to know their HIV status (78% vs. 89%), have suppressed viral loads (82% vs. 90%), or access HIV prevention services. To achieve epidemic control where heterosexual sexual behavior drives transmission, interventions to improve the uptake of HIV testing services (HTS) and prevention services must also target cis-gendered, heterosexual men. There is limited understanding of these men's needs and wants with regards to accessing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). METHODS Adult men (≥ 18 years) from a peri-urban community in Buffalo City Municipality were offered community-based HTS. Those who received a negative HIV test result were offered community-based, same-day oral PrEP initiation. Men initiating PrEP were invited to participate in a study exploring men's HIV prevention needs and reasons for initiating PrEP. An in-depth interview guide, developed using the Network-Individual-Resources model (NIRM), explored men's perceived HIV acquisition risk, prevention needs, and preferences for PrEP initiation. Interviews were conducted by a trained interviewer in isiXhosa or English, audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used, guided by the NIRM to generate findings. RESULTS Twenty-two men (age range 18-57 years) initiated PrEP and consented to study participation. Men reported elevated HIV acquisition risk associated with alcohol use and condom-less sex with multiple partners as facilitators driving PrEP initiation. They anticipated social support from family members, their main sexual partner and close friends for their PrEP use, and discussed other men as important sources of support for PrEP initiation. Nearly all men expressed positive views of people using PrEP. Participants believed HIV testing would be a barrier for men interested in accessing PrEP. Men recommended that access to PrEP be convenient, rapid, and community-based (i.e., not clinic-based). DISCUSSION Self-perceived risk for HIV acquisition was a major facilitator for men's PrEP initiation. Although men expressed positive perceptions of PrEP users, they noted that HIV testing may be a barrier to PrEP initiation. Finally, men recommended convenient access points to facilitate PrEP initiation and sustained use. Gender-responsive interventions tailored to men's needs, wants, and voices will facilitate their uptake of HIV prevention services, and help to end the HIV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip John Smith
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Joseph Daniels
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andrew Medina-Marino
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, Eastern Cape Province, 10 Rochester Rd, Vincent, East, London, Buffalo City Metro, South Africa.
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15
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Health system opportunities and challenges for PrEP implementation in Kenya: A qualitative framework analysis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0259738. [PMID: 36206224 PMCID: PMC9543691 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) scales up in sub-Saharan Africa, governments and implementers need to understand how to best manage national programs. Kenya’s national PrEP program offers an opportunity to review elements of program success within the health system and evaluate the utility of a national implementation framework. We explored health system considerations for PrEP implementation to understand how Kenya’s national PrEP implementation priorities align with those of PrEP service providers, peer educators, and program or county managers. Methods We conducted twelve key informant interviews (KII) and nine focus group discussions (FGDs) with PrEP program and county managers (n = 12), peer educators (n = 44), and PrEP service providers (n = 48). We recruited participants across a variety of cadres and experiences with PrEP programs. KIIs and FGDs focused on PrEP service delivery and program implementation. Data were collected by trained study staff, audio recorded, translated into English, and transcribed. We used framework analysis methods to systematically apply Kenya’s 2017 National PrEP Implementation Framework to the data and summarized findings according to the seven Implementation Framework domains. Results All respondents emphasized the important role of communication, coordination, training, and leadership in PrEP implementation. PrEP service providers and program and county managers highlighted the importance of efficient data collection and utilization, and improved resource allocation. Commodity security and research, while key elements of the PrEP Implementation Framework, were less commonly discussed, and research was less prioritized by respondents. Respondents highlighted the importance of coordinated PrEP service delivery across sites and programs to improve overall client experiences. Conclusion In the context of a nationally-scaled PrEP program, PrEP service providers, peer educators, and program and county managers value strong leadership, close coordination of services across sites, and expedient use of data to improve strategies and services. Kenya’s PrEP Implementation Framework aligns closely with the priorities of individuals involved in PrEP service delivery and management, and provides a comprehensive overview of health system considerations for effective implementation of a PrEP program at scale.
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Kuo AP, Roche SD, Mugambi ML, Pintye J, Baeten JM, Bukusi E, Ngure K, Stergachis A, Ortblad KF. The effectiveness, feasibility and acceptability of HIV service delivery at private pharmacies in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e26027. [PMID: 36285619 PMCID: PMC9597376 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26027] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Private pharmacies are an understudied setting for differentiated delivery of HIV services that may address barriers to clinic-delivered services, such as stigma and long wait times. To understand the potential for pharmacy-delivered HIV services in sub-Saharan Africa, we conducted a scoping review of the published and grey literature. METHODS Using a modified Cochrane approach, we searched electronic databases through March 2022 and HIV conference abstracts in the past 5 years for studies that: (1) focused on the delivery of HIV testing, antiretroviral therapy (ART) and/or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) at private pharmacies in sub-Saharan Africa; (2) reported on effectiveness outcomes (e.g. HIV incidence) or implementation outcomes, specifically feasibility and/or acceptability; and (3) were published in English. Two authors identified studies and extracted data on study setting, population, design, outcomes and findings by HIV service type. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Our search identified 1646 studies. After screening and review, we included 28 studies: seven on HIV testing, nine on ART delivery and 12 on PrEP delivery. Most studies (n = 16) were conducted in East Africa, primarily in Kenya. Only two studies evaluated effectiveness outcomes; the majority (n = 26) reported on feasibility and/or acceptability outcomes. The limited effectiveness data (n = 2 randomized trials) suggest that pharmacy-delivered HIV services can increase demand and result in comparable clinical outcomes (e.g. viral load suppression) to standard-of-care clinic-based models. Studies assessing implementation outcomes found actual and hypothetical models of pharmacy-delivered HIV services to be largely feasible (e.g. high initiation and continuation) and acceptable (e.g. preferable to facility-based models and high willingness to pay/provide) among stakeholders, providers and clients. Potential barriers to implementation included a lack of pharmacy provider training on HIV service delivery, costs to clients and providers, and perceived low quality of care. CONCLUSIONS The current evidence suggests that pharmacy-delivered HIV services may be feasible to implement and acceptable to clients and providers in parts of sub-Saharan Africa. However, limited evidence outside East Africa exists, as does limited evidence on the effectiveness of and costs associated with pharmacy-delivered HIV services. More research of this nature is needed to inform the scale-up of this new differentiated service delivery model throughout the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra P. Kuo
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Stephanie D. Roche
- Public Health Sciences DivisionFred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | | | - Jillian Pintye
- School of NursingUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- School of NursingUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Gilead SciencesFoster CityCaliforniaUSA
| | - Elizabeth Bukusi
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Community HealthJomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and TechnologyNairobiKenya
| | - Andy Stergachis
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Katrina F. Ortblad
- Public Health Sciences DivisionFred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Edwards AJ, Pollard R, Kennedy CE, Mulamba J, Mbabali I, Anok A, Kong X, Nakyanjo N, Ddaaki W, Nishimura H, Wawer M, Rivet Amico K, Hutton HE, Nakigozi G, Larry W Chang. Impact of community health worker intervention on PrEP knowledge and use in Rakai, Uganda: A mixed methods, implementation science evaluation. Int J STD AIDS 2022; 33:995-1004. [PMID: 36006865 PMCID: PMC9910624 DOI: 10.1177/09564624221121208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective models of support for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are needed for populations at elevated risk. In a hyperendemic Ugandan fishing community, PrEP counseling was provided through a situated Information, Motivation, and Behavioral Skills (sIMB)-based community health worker (CHW) intervention. We evaluated the intervention using a mixed-methods, implementation science design. METHODS We surveyed all community members aged 15-49 through the Rakai Community Cohort Study. We used multivariable logistic regressions with generalized estimating equations to estimate the intervention's effect on PrEP knowledge and utilization. To understand intervention experiences and mechanisms, we conducted 74 qualitative interviews with 5 informant types (clients, CHWs, program staff, community leaders, health clinic staff) and analyzed data using an iterative, deductive approach. A mobile phone application provided intervention process implementation data. RESULTS Individuals self-reporting receipt of the CHW intervention showed significantly higher PrEP knowledge (N = 1848, PRR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.06-1.14, p = <.0001), PrEP ever use (N = 1176, PRR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.33-2.36, p = <.0001), and PrEP current use (N = 1176, PRR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.22-2.82, p = 0.0039) compared to those who did not. Qualitative findings attributed positive PrEP outcomes to CHW counseling and effective use of motivational interviewing skills by CHWs. Salient themes across the RE-AIM framework included support for the CHW intervention and PrEP across clients, community, and implementers. Mobile application data demonstrated consistent delivery of the PrEP module throughout implementation. CONCLUSIONS CHWs improved PrEP knowledge and use among clients in an HIV hyperendemic fishing community. Mixed-methods, implementation science evaluations can inform adaptation of similar PrEP implementation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abagail J Edwards
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rose Pollard
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Caitlin E Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
| | | | | | - Aggrey Anok
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
| | - Xiangrong Kong
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Holly Nishimura
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maria Wawer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - K Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Heidi E Hutton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Larry W Chang
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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18
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Ndenkeh JJN, Bowring AL, Njindam IM, Folem RD, Fako GCH, Ngueguim FG, Gayou OL, Lepawa K, Minka CM, Batoum CM, Georges S, Temgoua E, Nzima V, Kob DA, Akiy ZZ, Philbrick W, Levitt D, Curry D, Baral S. HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Uptake and Continuation Among Key Populations in Cameroon: Lessons Learned From the CHAMP Program. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 91:39-46. [PMID: 35536113 PMCID: PMC9377496 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is proven to be a highly effective HIV prevention method for key populations. However, its scale-up in resource-limited settings remains suboptimal. This paper seeks to describe PrEP initiation and continuation among key populations in Cameroon. METHODOLOGY From June 2019 through October 2020, we collected routine program data on PrEP uptake and continuation among female sex workers (FSWs) and men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Continuum of prevention, care and treatment of HIV/AIDS with Most-at-risk Populations (CHAMP) program in Cameroon. PrEP was offered to clients who tested negative for HIV and were assessed to potentially benefit from PrEP. Using survival analysis, we identified factors associated with PrEP discontinuation over time with significance set at 5%. RESULTS Overall, 27,750 clients were sensitized for PrEP of whom 3,138 persons were eligible to start PrEP and 1,409 (45%; FSW: 691 and MSM: 718) initiated PrEP. The PrEP continuation rate was 37% at 3 months, 28% at 6 months and 19% at 12 months. PrEP discontinuation was significantly higher among FSW than MSM [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.5 (95% CI: 1.2 to 1.9)] in Yaounde [aHR 1.5 (95% CI: 1.2 to 1.9)] and Bafoussam/Bertoua [aHR 3.1 (2.2-4.5)] relative to Douala. Discontinuation was lower among those with moderate [aHR 0.3 (0.3-0.4)] or good adherence [aHR 0.4 (0.3-0.6)] compared with poor adherence (all P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Differentiated approaches to deliver PrEP, create demand, and provide more intensive support for adherence and continuation may support scale-up of PrEP in Cameroon for equitable and prolonged impact on HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson Jr Nforbewing Ndenkeh
- Care International in Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- CIH Center for International Health, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna L. Bowring
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- John Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kelly Lepawa
- Care and Health Program (CHP), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | - Edith Temgoua
- National AIDS Control Committee (NACC), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Valery Nzima
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Yaoundé, Cameroon; and
| | - David Anouar Kob
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Yaoundé, Cameroon; and
| | - Zacheus Zeh Akiy
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Yaoundé, Cameroon; and
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Baral
- John Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
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19
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Makhakhe NF, Sliep Y, Meyer-Weitz A. “Whatever is in the ARVs, is Also in the PrEP” Challenges Associated With Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Use Among Female Sex Workers in South Africa. Front Public Health 2022; 10:691729. [PMID: 35784260 PMCID: PMC9247347 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.691729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The national policy on oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for female sex workers (FSWs) was instituted in South Africa in 2016. FSWs were targeted for PrEP due to a Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence of 57.7%, which is higher than the prevalence of 19.07% among the general population. Research from demonstration studies has shown that uptake of PrEP has been slower than anticipated, and the purpose of this study was to explore barriers to the uptake of PrEP among FSWs. Methods An in-depth qualitative study was conducted with 39 participants, 30 individual participants, and nine focus group participants. Eleven participants consisted of peer educators and two health workers from a sex work and PrEP distribution organization, the rest of the participants (1) were FSWs. Results The majority of participants mentioned that little distinction was made between PrEP and antiretrovirals (ARVs) taken by FSWs living with HIV. PrEP was not distributed through public health care facilities, and health workers unknowingly labeled PrEP as ARVs. Consequently, health workers seen as experts created suspicion and contributed to the mistrust of PrEP among FSWs due to mixed messages, and equating PrEP to ARVs reduced uptake. Furthermore, failure to make a clear distinction between oral PrEP and ARVs resulted in accusations of lying, denialism, and deception leveled at users of PrEP by FSWs using ARVs, and sometimes by clients and intimate partners. FSWs using PrEP reported feeling stigmatized and thrust into interpersonal conflict with their peers after choosing PrEP, leading to broken relationships, and some resorting to taking PrEP privately or discontinuing PrEP altogether. Conclusion Pre-exposure prophylaxis as an ARV targeted for the prevention of HIV among high-risk groups was found to be stigmatizing. The distinctive use of PrEP and ARVs should be correctly explained to users to minimize confusion, enable differentiation and reduce interpersonal conflict. Cohesion among sex work organizations and public health care facilities is needed to disseminate the correct knowledge on PrEP. A non-stigmatizing approach to the distribution of PrEP may serve to increase uptake and adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nosipho Faith Makhakhe
- Faculty of Arts and Design, Center for General Education, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Nosipho Faith Makhakhe ;
| | - Yvonne Sliep
- Department of Psychology, School of Applied Human Sciences, Howard College, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Anna Meyer-Weitz
- Department of Psychology, School of Applied Human Sciences, Howard College, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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20
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Groves AK, Gebrekristos LT, Smith PD, Stoebenau K, Stoner MC, Ameyan W, Ezeh AC. Adolescent Mothers in Eastern and Southern Africa: An Overlooked and Uniquely Vulnerable Subpopulation in the Fight Against HIV. J Adolesc Health 2022; 70:895-901. [PMID: 35172930 PMCID: PMC9113251 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2021.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adolescent girls (10-19 years) in Eastern and Southern Africa face a high risk of pregnancy and HIV infection. However, few studies have examined whether the profound developmental, social, and economic changes that accompany adolescent motherhood contribute to HIV risk. This study examines the intersection between adolescent motherhood and HIV infection across 10 Eastern and Southern African countries, where over half of all HIV infections occur among adolescent girls. METHODS To evaluate whether adolescent motherhood is associated with HIV infection, we used Demographic and Health Survey data on girls (15-19 years) with HIV test results (N = 19,932) from Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. We examined unweighted bivariate and multivariable associations between adolescent motherhood and HIV using mixed effects logistic regression models that included a country-level random intercept. We examined heterogeneity in the association by testing country-level random slopes using a likelihood ratio test and used intraclass correlation to measure the proportion of total variance explained at the country level. RESULTS Nearly one fifth of adolescent girls were mothers (range: 9.80%-38.90%), and the HIV prevalence among all adolescent girls was 3.3% (range: 1.03%-10.07%). Relative to nonmothers, adolescent mothers were, on average, older, poorer, and more likely to be married, rural dwellers, and household heads. Adolescent motherhood was positively associated with HIV infection in bivariate and multivariable analyses (odds ratio: 1.87; 95% confidence interval: 1.57-2.23; adjusted odds ratio: 1.53; 95% CI: 1.24-1.89). DISCUSSION Among adolescents with HIV test results, we observed a robust association between adolescent motherhood and HIV infection across 10 high-burden countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison K. Groves
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,Address correspondence to: Allison K. Groves, Ph.D., M.H.S., 3215 Market Street, Philadelphia, 19104, USA.
| | | | - Patrick D. Smith
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kirsten Stoebenau
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Marie C. Stoner
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California
| | - Wole Ameyan
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alex C. Ezeh
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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21
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Muwonge TR, Nsubuga R, Ware NC, Wyatt MA, Pisarski E, Kamusiime B, Kasiita V, Nalukwago GK, Brown C, Nakyanzi A, Bagaya M, Bambia F, Ssebuliba T, Katabira E, Kyambadde P, Baeten JM, Heffron R, Celum C, Mujugira A, Haberer JE. Health Care Worker Perspectives of HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Service Delivery in Central Uganda. Front Public Health 2022; 10:658826. [PMID: 35444979 PMCID: PMC9013815 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.658826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Scale-up of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services in Uganda is ongoing. However, health care workers (HCWs) may not be aware of PrEP nor what offering this service entails. We explored the impact of standardized HCW training on the knowledge and perspectives of PrEP service delivery in Uganda. Methods We recruited HCWs from facilities that offered HIV-related services in Central Uganda. Using the Uganda Ministry of Health curriculum, we trained HCWs on PrEP services. We collected data about PrEP knowledge, preparedness, and willingness to deliver PrEP to multiple key populations before the training, immediately after the training, and >6 months later (exit). We additionally conducted 15 qualitative interviews after the exit survey. Quantitative data were analyzed by Fisher exact test, while qualitative interview data were analyzed inductively. Results We recruited 80 HCWs from 35 facilities in urban (N = 24, 30%), peri-urban (N = 30, 37%), and rural (N = 26, 33%) areas. Most HCWs were nurse counselors (N = 52, 65%) or medical/clinical officers (N = 15, 18%). Surveys indicated that awareness of PrEP increased after the training and remained high. Knowledge of PrEP (i.e., as an effective, short-term antiretroviral medication to use before HIV exposure for people at high risk) generally increased with training, but significant gaps remained, and knowledge decreased with time. Most HCWs recommended PrEP for female sex workers and HIV serodifferent couples, as well as other key populations. We observed increases in the number of HCW who felt their facility was prepared to cater for HIV prevention and provide PrEP, but this view was not universal. HCWs believed in PrEP effectiveness and embraced it as an additional HIV prevention method. Concerns included patient adherence and behavioral risk compensation. HCWs noted challenges in PrEP delivery in terms of inadequate clinic preparedness, infrastructure, staff capacity, and poor attitudes toward key populations by untrained health workers. They felt further training was needed to ensure a smooth scale-up of services without stigmatization. Conclusions Standardized training improved knowledge, willingness, and preparedness to offer PrEP services among most HCWs in Central Uganda. Ongoing training will be needed to optimize PrEP delivery services and expand delivery to levels needed for population-level impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R. Muwonge
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda,*Correspondence: Timothy R. Muwonge
| | - Rogers Nsubuga
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Brenda Kamusiime
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Vicent Kasiita
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Charles Brown
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agnes Nakyanzi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Monica Bagaya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Felix Bambia
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Elly Katabira
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Kyambadde
- Most At-Risk Populations Initiative, Kampala, Uganda,STD/AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States,Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, United States
| | - Renee Heffron
- Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Connie Celum
- Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jessica E. Haberer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States,Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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22
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Schaefer R, Amparo da Costa Leite PH, Silva R, Abdool Karim Q, Akolo C, Cáceres CF, Dourado I, Green K, Hettema A, Hoornenborg E, Jana S, Kerschberger B, Mahler H, Matse S, McManus H, Molina JM, Reza-Paul S, Azwa I, Shahmanesh M, Taylor D, Vega-Ramirez H, Veloso VG, Baggaley R, Dalal S. Kidney function in tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based oral pre-exposure prophylaxis users: a systematic review and meta-analysis of published literature and a multi-country meta-analysis of individual participant data. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e242-e253. [PMID: 35271825 PMCID: PMC8964504 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00004-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous WHO guidance on tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) suggests measuring creatinine levels at PrEP initiation and regularly afterwards, which might represent barriers to PrEP implementation and uptake. We aimed to systematically review published literature on kidney toxicity among tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based oral PrEP users and conducted an individual participant data meta-analysis (IPDMA) on kidney function among PrEP users in a global implementation project dataset. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis we searched PubMed up to June 30, 2021, for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or cohort studies that reported on graded kidney-related adverse events among oral PrEP users (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based PrEP alone or in combination with emtricitabine or lamivudine). We extracted summary data and conducted meta-analyses with random-effects models to estimate relative risks of grade 1 and higher and grade 2 and higher kidney-related adverse events, measured by elevated serum creatinine or decline in estimated creatinine clearance or estimated glomerular filtration rate. The IPDMA included (largely unpublished) individual participant data from 17 PrEP implementation projects and two RCTs. Estimated baseline creatinine clearance and creatinine clearance change after initiation were described by age, gender, and comorbidities. We used random-effects regressions to estimate the risk in decline of creatinine clearance to less than 60 mL/min. FINDINGS We identified 62 unique records and included 17 articles reporting on 11 RCTs with 13 523 participants in meta-analyses. PrEP use was associated with increased risk of grade 1 and higher kidney adverse events (pooled odds ratio [OR] 1·49, 95% CI 1·22-1·81; I2=25%) and grade 2 and higher events (OR 1·75, 0·68-4·49; I2=0%), although the grade 2 and higher association was not statistically significant and events were rare (13 out of 6764 in the intervention group vs six out of 6782 in the control group). The IPDMA included 18 676 individuals from 15 countries (1453 [7·8%] from RCTs) and 79 (0·42%) had a baseline estimated creatinine clearance of less than 60 mL/min (increasing proportions with increasing age). Longitudinal analyses included 14 368 PrEP users and 349 (2·43%) individuals had a decline to less than 60 mL/min creatinine clearance, with higher risks associated with increasing age and baseline creatinine clearance of 60·00-89·99 mL/min (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 8·49, 95% CI 6·44-11·20) and less than 60 mL/min (aHR 20·83, 12·83-33·82). INTERPRETATION RCTs suggest that risks of kidney-related adverse events among tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based oral PrEP users are increased but generally mild and small. Our global PrEP user analysis found varying risks by age and baseline creatinine clearance. Kidney function screening and monitoring might focus on older individuals, those with baseline creatinine clearance of less than 90 mL/min, and those with kidney-related comorbidities. Less frequent or optional screening among younger individuals without kidney-related comorbidities may reduce barriers to PrEP implementation and use. FUNDING Unitaid, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, WHO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Schaefer
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | | | - Ronaldo Silva
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Italy
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- CAPRISA, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine; University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Carlos F Cáceres
- Centro de Investigación Interdisciplinaria en Sexualidad, SIDA y Sociedad, Universidad Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Inês Dourado
- Collective Health Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | | | | | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Center for Sexual Health, Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Hamish McManus
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jean-Michel Molina
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St-Louis and Lariboisière Hospitals, University of Paris, INSERM U944, Paris, France
| | - Sushena Reza-Paul
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Ashodaya Samithi, Mysuru, India
| | - Iskandar Azwa
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Hamid Vega-Ramirez
- National Institute of Psychiatry Ramon de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Valdiléa G Veloso
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rachel Baggaley
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Shona Dalal
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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23
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Parmley LE, Harris TG, Chingombe I, Mapingure M, Mugurungi O, Rogers JH, Gozhora P, Wu Y, Samba C, Musuka G, Hakim AJ. Engagement in the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) cascade among a respondent-driven sample of sexually active men who have sex with men and transgender women during early PrEP implementation in Zimbabwe. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25873. [PMID: 35148029 PMCID: PMC8834645 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Zimbabwe is scaling up pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for key populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW). To assess implementation and inform HIV programming, we evaluated gaps in PrEP awareness, uptake and use, and correlates of awareness and uptake among a sample of MSM, TGW and genderqueer individuals (GQ) in Harare and Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. METHODS Respondent-driven sampling was used to recruit 1194 MSM and 344 TGW/GQ aged ≥18 to participate in a cross-sectional survey assessing HIV-related outcomes in 2019. Consenting participants completed a questionnaire on socio-demographic information, sexual risk practices and engagement in HIV services and underwent HIV testing. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the PrEP cascade. Multiple logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with PrEP awareness and uptake among HIV-negative participants. Data were unweighted as the sample did not reach convergence on key estimates. RESULTS Among the 1167 HIV-negative participants, most (79.2%) were MSM compared to TGW/GQ (20.8%). Median age was 24 years. Overall, 45.8% were aware of PrEP and of those, 31.3% had ever taken PrEP. Most (71.1%) reporting never taking PrEP were willing to start PrEP; the main reasons for never starting PrEP included not knowing where to access it (24.8%) and fearing side effects (20.4%). Among those who had ever taken PrEP, 74.9% had taken PrEP in the last 6 months; of these, 42.4% had taken PrEP the day of or day preceding the survey. Side effects represented the most common (59.5%) reason for discontinuing PrEP. MSM (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8-3.6) and TGW/GQ in Harare (aOR: 3.1, 95% CI: 2.1-4.7), and TGW/GQ in Bulawayo (aOR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.1-5.3) had higher awareness of PrEP than MSM in Bulawayo. Overall, TGW/GQ were more likely to have ever taken PrEP compared to MSM (aOR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.01-2.4). CONCLUSIONS Findings emphasize the need for tailored interventions to promote PrEP among key populations. As HIV programs in Zimbabwe continue to expand PrEP services, these data, including barriers to starting and continuing PrEP, can inform strategies to address gaps along the PrEP cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tiffany G Harris
- ICAP at Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Owen Mugurungi
- Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - John H Rogers
- Division of Global HIV & TB, U.S. Centers for Disease Control, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Yingfeng Wu
- ICAP at Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Avi J Hakim
- Division of Global HIV & TB, U.S. Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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24
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Thomas D, Mujugira A, Ortblad K, Namanda S, Kibuuka J, Nakitende M, Nambi F, Nakabugo L, Scoville C, Muwonge T, Heffron R. A pragmatic approach to identifying implementation barriers and facilitators for a novel pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery model at public facilities in urban Uganda. Implement Sci Commun 2022; 3:7. [PMID: 35090560 PMCID: PMC8795935 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-022-00254-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Scalable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery models for resource-limited settings are critical for improving PrEP coverage and interrupting HIV transmission. This research uses technical assistance (TA) reports to evaluate implementation barriers and facilitators for a novel delivery model integrating PrEP and antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivery for HIV sero-different couples in public health facilities in Kampala, Uganda. Methods We used data from the Partners PrEP Program (PPP)—a stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial that is launching PrEP delivery through an integrated model of oral PrEP and antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivery for HIV sero-different couples at public health facilities in Kampala and Wakiso, Uganda (NCT03586128). Technical assistance teams, comprised of PPP program staff, conducted monthly TA visits to implementing facilities where they identified and addressed implementation challenges in collaboration with health facility staff. Findings were recorded in TA reports, a standardized form structured using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). We used a conceptual content analysis approach to evaluate TA reports completed from January to December 2019 and identify implementation barriers and facilitators. Results Among 39 reports from the 8 implementing facilities (~ 5 per facility), we identified 11 CFIR constructs. Key implementation facilitators included sensitizing and educating facility staff about PrEP (knowledge and beliefs about the innovation); establishing formal and informal feedback and accountability mechanisms (reflecting and evaluating); and empowering facility staff to address implementation challenges (self-efficacy). Key implementation barriers were related to ineffective recruitment and referral of sero-different couples to and from nearby facilities (cosmopolitanism) as well as stockouts of laboratory resources and testing supplies (available resources). Conclusions This analysis featured a robust implementation science framework to assess the relationship between early implementation determinants and outcomes of this innovative PrEP delivery model. Further, we have provided important descriptions of early implementation barriers and facilitators that will inform scale-up efforts for PrEP delivery within and beyond Uganda. Future work will refine the analysis of pragmatic program data, qualitatively investigate the identified key themes, and explore strategies for addressing implementation barriers. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43058-022-00254-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy Thomas
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Ninth and Jefferson Building, HMC 359927, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-2499, USA
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Ninth and Jefferson Building, HMC 359927, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-2499, USA.,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Katrina Ortblad
- Public Health Science Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Sylvia Namanda
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joseph Kibuuka
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mai Nakitende
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Florence Nambi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Caitlin Scoville
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Ninth and Jefferson Building, HMC 359927, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-2499, USA
| | - Timothy Muwonge
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Ninth and Jefferson Building, HMC 359927, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-2499, USA. .,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Ninth and Jefferson Building, HMC 359927, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-2499, USA.
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25
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Mangenah C, Nhamo D, Gudukeya S, Gwavava E, Gavi C, Chiwawa P, Chidawanyika S, Muleya P, Taruberekera N, Madidi N, Ncube G, Bara H, Napierala S, Dunbar M, Hoke T, Kripke K, Cowan FM, Torjesen K, Terris-Prestholt F. Efficiency in PrEP Delivery: Estimating the Annual Costs of Oral PrEP in Zimbabwe. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:161-170. [PMID: 34453240 PMCID: PMC8786759 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03367-w] [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] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Although oral PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV acquisition, optimizing continuation among beneficiaries is challenging in many settings. We estimated the costs of delivering oral PrEP to populations at risk of HIV in seven clinics in Zimbabwe. Full annual economic costs of oral PrEP initiations and continuation visits were estimated from the providers’ perspective for a six-clinic NGO network and one government SGBV clinic in Zimbabwe (January–December 2018). Disaggregating costs of full initiation and incremental follow-up visits enabled modeling of the impact of duration of continuation on the cost per person-year ($pPY) on PrEP. 4677 people initiated oral PrEP, averaging 2.7 follow-up visits per person. Average cost per person initiated was $238 ($183–$302 across the NGO clinics; $86 in the government facility). The full cost per initiation visit, including central and direct costs, was $178, and the incremental cost per follow-up visit, capturing only additional resources used directly in the follow up visits, was $22. The average duration of continuation was 3.0 months, generating an average $pPY of $943, ranging from $839 among adolescent girls and young women to $1219 in men. Oral PrEP delivery costs varied substantially by scale of initiations and by duration of continuation and type of clinic. Extending the average oral PrEP continuation from 2.7 to 5 visits (about 6 months) would greatly improve service efficiency, cutting the $pPY by more than half.
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Moran A, Mashele N, Mvududu R, Gorbach P, Bekker LG, Coates TJ, Myer L, Joseph Davey D. Maternal PrEP Use in HIV-Uninfected Pregnant Women in South Africa: Role of Stigma in PrEP Initiation, Retention and Adherence. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:205-217. [PMID: 34287756 PMCID: PMC8294266 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03374-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa are at high risk of HIV acquisition and require effective methods to prevent HIV. In a cohort of pregnant women offered Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), we evaluate the relationship between internalized and anticipated stigma and PrEP initiation at first antenatal visit, 3-month continuation and adherence using multivariable logistic regression. High internalized and anticipated PrEP stigma are associated with lower PrEP care initiation at first antenatal visit (aOR internalized stigma = 0.06; 95% CI = 0.03–0.11 and aOR anticipated stigma = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.31–1.00) compared to women with low reported stigma, after controlling for covariates. Women whose partners have not been tested for HIV or whose serostatus remains unknown have 1.6-times odds of PrEP retention at 3-months compared to women whose partners have been tested (aOR = 1.60; 95% CI = 1.02–2.52) after adjusting for covariates. PrEP counseling and maternal PrEP interventions must consider individual- and relational-level interventions to overcome anticipated PrEP stigma and other barriers to PrEP initiation and adherence.
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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.
| | - Nyiko Mashele
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rufaro Mvududu
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Pamina 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
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thomas J Coates
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Landon Myer
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Dvora Joseph Davey
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, 615 E Charles Young Drive S, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Nakamanya S, Kawuma R, Kibuuka D, Kusemererwa S, McCormack S, Ruzagira E, Seeley J. Assessing acceptability of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among participants in an HIV vaccine preparedness study in southwestern Uganda. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271104. [PMID: 35905052 PMCID: PMC9337655 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271104] [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: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use is highly effective against HIV infection. However, the uptake of PrEP among individuals at high-risk of HIV acquisition in sub-Saharan Africa varies because of availability and acceptability. We assessed the acceptability of PrEP among participants in a prospective HIV vaccine preparedness study in Masaka, southwestern Uganda. METHODS From November 2018 to August 2019, 20 participants (10 female) were purposively selected for in-depth interviews (IDIs) at 3 and 9 months' post-enrolment in the vaccine preparedness study. Four focus group discussions (FGD) (two among men) were conducted with 29 individuals categorized as: younger (18-24 years) men, younger (18-24 years) women, older (≥30 years) men, and older (≥30 years) women. Apart from IDI specific questions on recent life history including work experience, relationship history and places lived, topics for IDIs and FGDs included knowledge of HIV, perceptions of HIV risk (including own risk), knowledge of and use of PrEP. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability was used to structure a thematic framework approach for data analysis. RESULTS Participants understood that PrEP was an oral pill taken daily by HIV negative individuals to prevent acquisition of HIV. Overall, interest in and acceptability of PrEP was high, more than half expressed positivity towards PrEP but were not ready to initiate taking it citing the burden of daily oral pill taking, related side effects, stigma and distrust of PrEP. Fourteen participants (from IDI and FGD) initiated PrEP, although some (one FGD and two IDI participants) stopped taking it due to side effects or perceived reduced risk. CONCLUSION We observed a keen interest in PrEP initiation among our study participants. However, a limited understanding of PrEP and associated concerns impeded uptake and sustained use. Hence, interventions are needed to address end-user challenges to increase uptake and support adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nakamanya
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Rachel Kawuma
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Denis Kibuuka
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Sylvia Kusemererwa
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Eugene Ruzagira
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Seeley
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Bhavaraju N, Shears K, Schwartz K, Mullick S, Jeckonia P, Murungu J, Persaud U, Vij A, Torjesen K. Introducing the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring in Sub-Saharan Africa: What Can We Learn from Oral PrEP? Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2021; 18:508-517. [PMID: 34910276 PMCID: PMC8671875 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-021-00577-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review Clinical trials have found that the dapivirine vaginal ring (DVR) is safe to use and effective at reducing women’s risk of acquiring HIV infection. As countries prepare for the introduction of this novel long-acting, woman-controlled prevention method, an examination of key learnings from oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery will help programs leverage successful innovations and approaches to support DVR scale-up and expand the method mix for HIV prevention. Recent findings Intensive efforts over the past 5 years have yielded lessons on how to facilitate access to oral PrEP; expand service delivery for PrEP; address the knowledge, attitudes, and skills providers need to support PrEP initiation and effective use; develop messaging that builds community and partner support and combats stigma; and understand the cyclical nature of PrEP use. Summary Evidence from oral PrEP introduction and scale-up can help inform and expedite DVR introduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathleen Shears
- FHI 360, 1825 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 USA
| | | | - Saiqa Mullick
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, 8 Blackwood Avenue, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patriciah Jeckonia
- LVCT Health, Batian Lane, Off Argwings Kodhek Road, Hurlingam, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joseph Murungu
- Pangaea Zimbabwe AIDS Trust, 27 Rowland Square, Milton Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Udita Persaud
- United States Agency for International Development, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20523 USA
| | - Ashley Vij
- United States Agency for International Development, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20523 USA
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Roche SD, Odoyo J, Irungu E, Kwach B, Dollah A, Nyerere B, Peacock S, Morton JF, O'Malley G, Bukusi EA, Baeten JM, Mugwanya KK. A one-stop shop model for improved efficiency of pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery in public clinics in western Kenya: a mixed methods implementation science study. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25845. [PMID: 34898032 PMCID: PMC8666585 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In public clinics in Kenya, separate, sequential delivery of the component services of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) (e.g. HIV testing, counselling, and dispensing) creates long wait times that hinder clients' ability and desire to access and continue PrEP. We conducted a mixed methods study in four public clinics in western Kenya to identify strategies for operationalizing a one-stop shop (OSS) model and evaluate whether this model could improve client wait time and care acceptability among clients and providers without negatively impacting uptake or continuation. METHODS From January 2020 through November 2020, we collected and analysed 47 time-and-motion observations using Mann-Whitney U tests, 29 provider and client interviews, 68 technical assistance reports, and clinic flow maps from intervention clinics. We used controlled interrupted time series (cITS) to compare trends in PrEP initiation and on-time returns from a 12-month pre-intervention period (January-December 2019) to an 8-month post-period (January-November 2020, excluding a 3-month COVID-19 wash-out period) at intervention and control clinics. RESULTS From the pre- to post-period, median client wait time at intervention clinics dropped significantly from 31 to 6 minutes (p = 0.02), while median provider contact time remained around 23 minutes (p = 0.4). Intervention clinics achieved efficiency gains by moving PrEP delivery to lower volume departments, moving steps closer together (e.g. relocating supplies; cross-training and task-shifting), and differentiating clients based on the subset of services needed. Clients and providers found the OSS model highly acceptable and additionally identified increased privacy, reduced stigma, and higher quality client-provider interactions as benefits of the model. From the pre- to post-period, average monthly initiations at intervention and control clinics increased by 6 and 2.3, respectively, and percent of expected follow-up visits occurring on time decreased by 18% and 26%, respectively; cITS analysis of PrEP initiations (n = 1227) and follow-up visits (n = 2696) revealed no significant difference between intervention and control clinics in terms of trends in PrEP initiation and on-time returns (all p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS An OSS model significantly improved client wait time and care acceptability without negatively impacting initiations or continuations, thus highlighting opportunities to improve the efficiency of PrEP delivery efficiency and client-centredness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | | | - Benn Kwach
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Annabell Dollah
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Bernard Nyerere
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Sue Peacock
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | | | | | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Medicine, University of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of WashingtonWashingtonSeattleUSA
- Gilead SciencesFoster CityCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kenneth K. Mugwanya
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of WashingtonWashingtonSeattleUSA
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Irungu EM, Mugwanya KK, Mugo NR, Bukusi EA, Donnell D, Odoyo J, Wamoni E, Peacock S, Morton JF, Ngure K, Mugambi M, Mukui I, O'Malley G, Baeten JM. Integration of pre-exposure prophylaxis services into public HIV care clinics in Kenya: a pragmatic stepped-wedge randomised trial. Lancet Glob Health 2021; 9:e1730-e1739. [PMID: 34798031 PMCID: PMC8609282 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(21)00391-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful and sustainable models for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery in public health systems in Africa are needed. We aimed to evaluate the implementation of PrEP delivery integrated in public HIV care clinics in Kenya. METHODS As part of Kenya's national PrEP roll-out, we conducted a stepped-wedge cluster-randomised pragmatic trial to catalyse scale-up of PrEP delivery integrated in 25 public HIV care clinics. We selected high-volume clinics in these regions (ie, those with a high number of people living with HIV enrolled in HIV care and treatment). Clinics (each representing a cluster) were stratified by region and randomly assigned to the order in which clinic staff would receive PrEP training and ongoing technical support using numbered opaque balls picked from a bag. There was no masking. PrEP provision was done by clinic staff without additional financial support. Data were abstracted from records of individuals initiating PrEP. The primary outcome was the number of people initiating PrEP per clinic per month comparing intervention to control periods. Other outcomes included PrEP continuation, adherence, and incident HIV infections. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03052010. FINDINGS After the baseline period, which started in January, 2017, every month two to six HIV care clinics crossed over from control to intervention, until August, 2017, when all clinics were implementing the intervention. Of 4898 individuals initiating PrEP (27 during the control period and 4871 during the intervention period), 2640 (54%) were women, the median age was 31 years (IQR 25-39), and 4092 (84%) reported having a partner living with HIV. The mean monthly number of PrEP initiations per clinic was 0·1 (SD 0·5) before the intervention and 7·5 (2·7) after intervention introduction (rate ratio 23·7, 95% CI 14·2-39·5, p<0·0001). PrEP continuation was 57% at 1 month, 44% at 3 months, and 34% at 6 months, and 12% of those who missed a refill returned later for PrEP re-initiation. Tenofovir diphosphate was detected in 68 (96%) of 71 blood samples collected from a randomly selected subset of participants. Six HIV infections were observed over 2531 person-years of observation (incidence 0·24 cases per 100 person-years), three of which occurred at the first visit after PrEP initiation. INTERPRETATION We observed high uptake, reasonable continuation with high adherence, frequent PrEP restarts, and low HIV incidence. Integration of PrEP services within public HIV care clinics in Africa is feasible. FUNDING National Institute of Mental Health and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Irungu
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | | | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Deborah Donnell
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Wamoni
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sue Peacock
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jennifer F Morton
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Mugambi
- National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Irene Mukui
- National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Giovenco D, Kuo C, Underhill K, Hoare J, Operario D. Adolescent-Centered HIV Prevention: Perspectives on Acceptability of Oral Antiretroviral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for Adolescents in a Global Priority Setting. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:2921-2931. [PMID: 34561792 PMCID: PMC8744480 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02052-2] [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: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
With oral antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) rollout expanding to include adolescents in South Africa, research is needed to better understand perceptions of PrEP acceptability among adolescents and clinical service providers. We conducted an exploratory mixed-methods study among 57 adolescents, 16-17 years of age, living with and without HIV, and 25 clinical service providers in Cape Town, South Africa from 2015 to 2016. Cross-sectional survey and semi-structured qualitative interview data were used to explore (1) willingness to use PrEP and support partner PrEP use among adolescents living with and without HIV, (2) willingness to prescribe or support prescription of PrEP among service providers, and (3) perceptions of barriers and facilitators to PrEP implementation and interpretations of PrEP efficacy messaging for adolescent HIV prevention among all participants. Acceptability of PrEP among participants was high. Support for PrEP uptake was linked to messages that positively framed PrEP's protection potential (i.e., success- versus failure-framed messaging) among both adolescents and providers. Adolescents living without HIV endorsed high willingness to use PrEP and adolescents living with HIV endorsed high support for partner PrEP use. However, both groups noted that potential side effects, stigma, and PrEP's partial efficacy may hinder uptake. Clinical service providers endorsed PrEP for sexually active adolescents and shared stigma and efficacy concerns. Further, service providers expressed desire for adolescent-tailored training and integration of PrEP delivery into primary care and family planning services. Efforts to educate adolescents and service providers about PrEP should consider how message framing may influence acceptability. Community PrEP education and adolescent-friendly delivery should be prioritized to alleviate predicted PrEP stigma and facilitate uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Giovenco
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516, USA.
| | - Caroline Kuo
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Jacqueline Hoare
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Irungu EM, Odoyo J, Wamoni E, Bukusi EA, Mugo NR, Ngure K, Morton JF, Mugwanya KK, Baeten JM, O'Malley G. Process evaluation of PrEP implementation in Kenya: adaptation of practices and contextual modifications in public HIV care clinics. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25799. [PMID: 34496148 PMCID: PMC8425783 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In Africa, oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is largely provided via over‐burdened public HIV care clinics. Successfully incorporating PrEP services into these clinics may require adaptations to practices outlined in national implementation guidelines and modifications to routine existing service delivery. We aimed to describe adaptations made by public HIV clinics in Kenya to integrate PrEP delivery into existing services. Methods The Partners Scale‐Up Project aimed to catalyse integration of PrEP in 25 public HIV care clinics. Between May and December 2018, we conducted qualitative interviews with health providers and documented clinic observations in technical assistance (TA) reports to understand the process of PrEP service integration. We analysed 36 health provider interview transcripts and 25 TA reports to identify clinic‐level adaptations to activities outlined in Kenyan Ministry of Health PrEP guidelines and modifications made to existing service delivery practices to successfully incorporate PrEP services. Identified adaptations were reported using the expanded framework for reporting adaptations and modifications (FRAME). Results All clinics (n = 25) performed HIV testing, HIV risk assessment, PrEP education and adherence counselling as stipulated in the guidelines. Most clinics initiated clients on PrEP without creatinine testing if otherwise healthy. While monthly refill appointments are recommended, a majority of clinics issued PrEP users two to three months of pills at a time. Clinics also implemented practices that had not been specified in the guidelines including incorporating PrEP‐related topics into routine health talks, calling clients with missed PrEP appointments, discussing PrEP service delivery in regular staff meetings, ‘fast‐tracking’ PrEP clients and dispensing PrEP in clinic rooms rather than at clinic‐based pharmacies. PrEP initiation numbers were highest among clinics that did not require creatinine testing, conducted peer on‐the‐job PrEP training and those that discussed PrEP delivery in their routine meetings. Above‐average continuation was observed among clinics that discussed PrEP in their routine meetings, dispensed PrEP in clinic rooms and offered PrEP at nonregular hours. Conclusions Health providers in public HIV care clinics instituted practices and made innovative adaptations to PrEP delivery to reduce barriers for clients and staff. Encouraging clinic level adaptations to national implementation guidelines will facilitate scale‐up of PrEP delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Irungu
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Wamoni
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jennifer F Morton
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kenneth K Mugwanya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, USA
| | - Gabrielle O'Malley
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Grov C, Westmoreland DA, D’Angelo AB, Pantalone DW. How Has HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Changed Sex? A Review of Research in a New Era of Bio-behavioral HIV Prevention. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2021; 58:891-913. [PMID: 34180743 PMCID: PMC9729849 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1936440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
In 2012, the U.S. FDA approved the first drug for use as HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which is nearly 99% effective when taken as prescribed. Although the manifest function of PrEP is to prevent HIV infection in the event of exposure, the drug has also had a significant impact on various facets of sexuality. In this review, we focus on research that emerged in the near decade since PrEP's approval, with a specific focus on the ways in which different elements of sex and sexuality have been impacted by gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), cisgender women, and transgender individuals. We highlight evidence showing how PrEP has enhanced sexual self-esteem, improved sexual pleasure, reduced sexual anxiety, and has increased sexual agency for those taking it. For many, PrEP also serves as a gateway to improve routine health and increase sexual health-care utilization. Additionally, we review the question of whether PrEP is associated with increased sexual risk taking (i.e. risk compensation), and note that, although some data are mixed, PrEP is not intended as an intervention to reduce condomless anal sex or STIs: it aims to prevent HIV. Finally, our review highlights that, although the volume of research on PrEP among GBMSM is robust, it is underdeveloped for cisgender women and transgender populations and insufficient for inclusion in such a review for cisgender heterosexual men was. PrEP research with these populations is an important direction for future research. Finally, from 2012 to 2019, a single PrEP formulation and delivery method was FDA approved (oral emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate). As additional drug formulations (ie.g., emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) and delivery methods (e.g., microbiocides, vaginal ring, injectable) come to market, it will be important to examine how these, too, impact the spectrum of sexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
| | | | - Alexa B. D’Angelo
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
| | - David W. Pantalone
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA
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Rousseau E, Bekker LG, Julies RF, Celum C, Morton J, Johnson R, Baeten JM, O'Malley G. A community-based mobile clinic model delivering PrEP for HIV prevention to adolescent girls and young women in Cape Town, South Africa. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:888. [PMID: 34454505 PMCID: PMC8403426 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06920-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Daily doses of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV by more than 95 %. In sub-Saharan Africa, adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are at disproportionately high risk of acquiring HIV, accounting for 25 % of new infections. There are limited data available on implementation approaches to effectively reach and deliver PrEP to AGYW in high HIV burden communities. METHODS We explored the feasibility and acceptability of providing PrEP to AGYW (aged 16-25 years) via a community-based mobile health clinic (CMHC) known as the Tutu Teen Truck (TTT) in Cape Town, South Africa. The TTT integrated PrEP delivery into its provision of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS). We analyzed data from community meetings and in-depth interviews with 30 AGYW PrEP users to understand the benefits and challenges of PrEP delivery in this context. RESULTS A total of 585 young women started PrEP at the TTT between July 2017 - October 2019. During in-depth interviews a subset of 30 AGYW described the CMHC intervention for PrEP delivery as acceptable and accessible. The TTT provided services at times and in neighborhood locations where AGYW organically congregate, thus facilitating service access and generating peer demand for PrEP uptake. The community-based nature of the CMHC, in addition to its adolescent friendly health providers, fostered a trusting provider-community-client relationship and strengthened AGYW HIV prevention self-efficacy. The integration of PrEP and SRHS service delivery was highly valued by AGYW. While the TTT's integration in the community facilitated acceptability of the PrEP delivery model, challenges faced by the broader community (community riots, violence and severe weather conditions) also at times interrupted PrEP delivery. CONCLUSIONS PrEP delivery from a CMHC is feasible and acceptable to young women in South Africa. However, to effectively scale-up PrEP it will be necessary to develop diverse PrEP delivery locations and modalities to meet AGYW HIV prevention needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elzette Rousseau
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robin F Julies
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jennifer Morton
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Rachel Johnson
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Sack DE, De Schacht C, Paulo P, Graves E, Emílio AM, Matino A, Fonseca CL, Aboobacar AU, Van Rompaey S, Audet CM. Pre-exposure prophylaxis use among HIV serodiscordant couples: a qualitative study in Mozambique. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1940764. [PMID: 34229580 PMCID: PMC8266225 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1940764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has the potential to reduce HIV transmission and stem the HIV epidemic. Unfortunately, PrEP uptake in rural sub-Saharan Africa has been slow and medication adherence has been suboptimal. Objective To explore the perspectives, attitudes, and experiences of HIV serodiscordant partners taking PrEP and develop a messaging campaign to improve PrEP uptake in rural Mozambique to reduce HIV transmission among serodiscordant partners. Methods In this qualitative study, we interviewed 20 people in serodiscordant relationships using PrEP at a rural health center in Zambézia province, Mozambique and employed inductive and deductive coding to elicit their perspectives, attitudes, and experiences related to learning their partner’s HIV status, barriers to PrEP uptake, obstacles to PrEP adherence, and decisions to disclose their PrEP use with family and friends using thematic analysis. Results Our analysis generated nine themes across various levels of the socioecological model. Participants reported a strong desire to stay in the discordant relationship and highlighted the importance of working together to ensure PrEP and antiretroviral therapy adherence, with the majority skeptical that adherence could be achieved without both partners’ support (individual and interpersonal). Although most participants were reticent about sharing their serodiscordant status with family and friends (individual and interpersonal), those who did found their family and friends supportive (interpersonal). Participants suggested increasing community health agent availability to help people navigate HIV prevention and treatment (organizational). We then created three oral stories, using themes from the interviews, with examples from various levels of the socioecological model that will be used to generate support for PrEP use among community members. Conclusions Our findings informed oral template stories that will be used to emphasize how couples can work together to improve PrEP uptake and reduce incident HIV infections in serodiscordant couples elsewhere in rural Mozambique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel E Sack
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Paula Paulo
- Friends in Global Health, Quelimane, Mozambique
| | - Erin Graves
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Carolyn M Audet
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Asabor EN, Lett E, Moll A, Shenoi SV. "We've Got Our Own Beliefs, Attitudes, Myths": A Mixed Methods Assessment of Rural South African Health Care Workers' Knowledge of and Attitudes Towards PrEP Implementation. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:2517-2532. [PMID: 33763802 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03213-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
South Africa maintains the world's largest HIV prevalence, accounting for 20.4% of people living with HIV internationally. HIV Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has demonstrated efficacy; however, there is limited data on PrEP implementation in South Africa, particularly in rural areas. Using grounded theory analysis of semi-structured interviews and exploratory factor analyses of structured surveys, this mixed methods study examines healthcare workers' (HCWs)' beliefs about their patients and the likelihood of PrEP uptake in their communities. The disproportionate burden of HIV among Black South Africans is linked to the legacy of apartheid and resulting disparities in wealth and employment. HCWs in our study emphasized the importance of addressing these structural barriers, including increased travel burden among men in the community looking for work, poor transportation infrastructure, and limited numbers of highly skilled clinical staff in their rural community. HCWs also espoused a vision of PrEP that prioritizes women due to perceived constraints on their sexual agency, and that minimizes the impact of HIV-related stigma on PrEP implementation. However, HCWs' additional concerns for risk compensation may reflect dominant social mores around sexual behavior. In recognition of HCWs' role as both informants and community members, implementation scientists should invite local HCWs to partner as early as the priority-setting stage for PrEP interventions. Inviting leadership from local HCWs may increase the likelihood of delivery plans that account for unique local context and structural barriers researchers may otherwise struggle to uncover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuella Ngozi Asabor
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Penn Medicine Center for Health Equity Advancement, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Elle Lett
- Penn Medicine Center for Health Equity Advancement, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Anthony Moll
- Church of Scotland Hospital, Tugela Ferry, South Africa
| | - Sheela V Shenoi
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Were DK, Musau A, Atkins K, Shrestha P, Reed J, Curran K, Mohan D. Health system adaptations and considerations to facilitate optimal oral pre-exposure prophylaxis scale-up in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet HIV 2021; 8:e511-e520. [PMID: 34265282 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(21)00129-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Following WHO's 2015 recommendation, countries in sub-Saharan Africa have progressively scaled up oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as part of combination HIV prevention. PrEP has potential to significantly reduce new HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa if it is widely available, accessible, and effectively used. Initial scale-up efforts have generated progress, drawing lessons from existing HIV interventions, such as antiretroviral therapy and biomedical prevention. However, beset by unprepared health systems, scale-up has been slow, resulting in suboptimal coverage among priority groups at higher risk of HIV acqusition. Using the WHO health system building blocks framework, this Review synthesises literature on essential considerations for PrEP scale-up in sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the importance of health system adaptability and responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kaitlyn Atkins
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Prakriti Shrestha
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Diwakar Mohan
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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The only way is up: priorities for implementing long-acting antiretrovirals for HIV prevention and treatment. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2021; 15:73-80. [PMID: 31688333 PMCID: PMC6903331 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of review Long-acting HIV treatment and prevention (LAHTP) can address some of the achievement gaps of daily oral therapy to bring us closer to achieving Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS Fast-track goals. Implementing these new technologies presents individual-level, population-level, and health systems-level opportunities and challenges. Recent findings To optimize LAHTP implementation and impact, decision-makers should define and gather relevant data to inform their investment case within the existing health systems context. Programmatic observations from scale-up of antiretroviral therapy, oral preexposure prophylaxis, voluntary medical male circumcision, and family planning offer lessons as planning begins for implementation of LAHTP. Additional data intelligence should be derived from formative studies, pragmatic clinical trials, epidemiologic and economic modeling of LAHTP. Key implementation issues that need to be addressed include optimal communication strategies for demand creation; target setting; logistics and supply chain of commodities needed for LAHTP delivery; human resource planning; defining and operationalizing monitoring and evaluating metrics; integration into health systems. Summary Successful LAHTP implementation can bolster treatment and prevention coverage levels if implementation issues outlined above are proactively addressed in parallel with research and development so that health systems can more rapidly integrate new technologies as they gain regulatory approval.
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Tapsoba JDD, Zangeneh SZ, Appelmans E, Pasalar S, Mori K, Peng L, Tao J, Drain P, Okomo G, Bii S, Mukabi J, Zobrist S, Brady M, Obanda R, Madiang DO, Cover J, Duerr A, Chen YQ, Obong’o C. Persistence of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among adolescent girls and young women initiating PrEP for HIV prevention in Kenya. AIDS Care 2021; 33:712-720. [PMID: 32951437 PMCID: PMC7981281 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1822505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe (DREAMS) Initiative aims to reduce HIV infections among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Africa. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is offered through DREAMS in Kenya to eligible AGYW in high burden counties including Kisumu and Homa Bay. This study examines PrEP persistence among AGYW in high burden community-based PrEP delivery settings. We evaluated PrEP persistence among AGYW in the DREAMS PrEP program in Kisumu and Homa Bay using survival analysis and programmatic PrEP refill data collected between March through December 2017. Among 1,259 AGYW who initiated PrEP during the study period, the median persistence time in the program was 56 days (95% CI: 49-58 days) and the proportion who persisted 3 months later was 37% (95% CI: 34-40%). Persistence varied by county (p < 0.001), age at PrEP initiation (p = 0.002), marital status (p = 0.008), transactional sex (p = 0.002), gender-based violence (GBV) experience (p = 0.009) and current school attendance (p = 0.001) at DREAMS enrollment. Persistence did not vary with orphan status, food insecurity, condom use, age at first sexual encounter or engagement in age-disparate sex at DREAMS enrollment. Targeted strategies are needed to improve AGYW retention in the PrEP program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean de Dieu Tapsoba
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
| | - Sahar Z Zangeneh
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
| | - Eline Appelmans
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
| | - Siavash Pasalar
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
| | - Kira Mori
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
| | - Lily Peng
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
| | - Janice Tao
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
| | - Paul Drain
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Stanley Bii
- United States Agency for International Development, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ann Duerr
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
| | - Ying Qing Chen
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA; MD, USA
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Ongolly FK, Dolla A, Ngure K, Irungu EM, Odoyo J, Wamoni E, Peebles K, Mugwanya K, Mugo NR, Bukusi EA, Morton J, Baeten JM, O’Malley G. "I Just Decided to Stop:" Understanding PrEP Discontinuation Among Individuals Initiating PrEP in HIV Care Centers in Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 87:e150-e158. [PMID: 33492024 PMCID: PMC8026512 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) discontinuation rates in clinical trials and demonstration projects have been well characterized; however, little is known about discontinuation in routine public health settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding discontinuation in nonstudy settings is important for establishing expectations for PrEP continuation in national programs and for facilitating effective PrEP scale-up. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with 46 individuals who had initiated PrEP at 25 HIV comprehensive care clinics (CCCs) in central and western Kenya and whose clinic records indicated they had discontinued. RESULTS Many of our study participants discontinued PrEP when their perceived risk decreased (eg, hiatus or end of a sexual relationship or partner known to be living with HIV became virally suppressed). Others reported discontinuation due to side effects, daily pill burden, preference for condoms, or their partner's insistence. Participant narratives frequently described facility level factors such as stigma-related discomforts with accessing PrEP at CCCs, inconvenient clinic location or operating hours, long wait times, and short refill dates as discouraging factors, suggesting actionable areas for improving PrEP access and continuation. CONCLUSION Clients frequently make intentional decisions to discontinue PrEP as they weigh different prevention options within the context of complex lives. Many clients will decide to discontinue PrEP when perceiving themselves to be at reduced risk and PrEP counseling must include provisions for addressing seasons of risk. PrEP will not be the right prevention method for everyone, or forever. Expanding PrEP access points and increasing sex-positive messaging may facilitate PrEP being a better option for many.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annabel Dolla
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth M. Irungu
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Wamoni
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kathryn Peebles
- Department of Epidemiology, Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kenneth Mugwanya
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nelly R. Mugo
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jennifer Morton
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gabrielle O’Malley
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Kantzanou M, Karalexi MA, Papachristou H, Vasilakis A, Rokka C, Katsoulidou A. Transmitted drug resistance among HIV-1 drug-naïve patients in Greece. Int J Infect Dis 2021; 105:42-48. [PMID: 33592343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.02.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the success of antiretroviral treatment (ART), the persisting transmitted drug resistance (TDR) and HIV genetic heterogeneity affect the efficacy of treatment. This study explored the prevalence of TDR among ART-naïve HIV patients in Greece during the period 2016-2019. METHODS Genotypic resistance testing was available for 438 ART-naïve HIV patients. Multivariable Poisson regression models were fitted. RESULTS The majority of patients were male, and there was a slight predominance of Hellenic (26.5%) over non-Hellenic (21.9%) nationality. The prevalence of TDR was 7.8%. There was a predominance of mutations for non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (5.7%) over nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (0.2%). No mutations to protease inhibitors were detected. The prevalence of resistance was 22.1% based on all mutations identified through the HIVdb interpretation system. The most frequent resistance sites were E138A (9.6%), K103N (6.4%), and K101E (2.1%). The majority of detected mutations were confined to subtype A (52.6%), followed by B (19.6%). Non-Hellenic nationality was significantly associated with an increased risk of TDR (relative risk 1.32, 95% confidence interval 1.04-1.69). CONCLUSIONS Non-B HIV infections predominate in Greece, with an increasing trend in recent years. The prevalence of TDR remains stable. Ongoing surveillance of resistance testing is needed to secure the long-term success of ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kantzanou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527, Goudi, Athens, Greece; National Retrovirus Reference Center/NRRC, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527, Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria A Karalexi
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527, Goudi, Athens, Greece.
| | - Helen Papachristou
- National Retrovirus Reference Center/NRRC, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527, Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexis Vasilakis
- National Retrovirus Reference Center/NRRC, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527, Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Rokka
- National Retrovirus Reference Center/NRRC, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527, Goudi, Athens, Greece
| | - Antigoni Katsoulidou
- National Retrovirus Reference Center/NRRC, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 11527, Goudi, Athens, Greece
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Ortblad KF, Mogere P, Roche S, Kamolloh K, Odoyo J, Irungu E, Mugo NR, Pintye J, Baeten JM, Bukusi E, Ngure K. Design of a care pathway for pharmacy-based PrEP delivery in Kenya: results from a collaborative stakeholder consultation. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:1034. [PMID: 33176785 PMCID: PMC7661206 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05898-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Kenya, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is almost exclusively delivered at HIV clinics. Developing novel PrEP delivery models is important for increasing the reach of PrEP. Delivery of PrEP through pharmacies is one approach utilized in the US to improve accessibility. Retail pharmacies are commonly used as a first-line access point for medical care in Kenya, but have not been utilized for PrEP delivery. We conducted a collaborative consultative meeting of stakeholders to develop a care pathway for pharmacy-based PrEP delivery in Kenya. METHODS In January 2020, we held a one-day meeting in Nairobi with 36 stakeholders from PrEP regulatory, professional, healthcare service delivery, civil society, and research organizations. Attendees reviewed a theory of change model, results from formative qualitative research with pharmacy providers and clients, and anticipated core components of pharmacy-based PrEP delivery: counseling, HIV testing, prescribing, and dispensing. Stakeholders participated in small and large group discussions to identify potential challenges and solutions. We synthesized the key findings from these discussions. RESULTS Stakeholders were enthusiastic about a model for pharmacy-based PrEP delivery. Potential challenges identified included insufficient pharmacy provider knowledge and skills, regulatory hurdles to providing affordable HIV testing at pharmacies, and undefined pathways for PrEP procurement. Potential solutions identified included having pharmacy providers complete the Kenya Ministry of Health-approved PrEP training, use of a PrEP prescribing checklist with remote clinician oversight and provider-assisted HIV self-testing, and having the government provide PrEP and HIV self-testing kits to pharmacies during a pilot test. A care pathway was developed over the course of the meeting. CONCLUSIONS PrEP delivery stakeholders in Kenya were strongly supportive of developing and testing a model for pharmacy-based PrEP delivery to increase PrEP access. We collaboratively developed a care pathway for pilot testing that has the potential to expand PrEP delivery options in Kenya and other similar settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina F Ortblad
- Department of Global Health, International Clinical Research Center, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | - Peter Mogere
- Partners in Health and Research Development, Thika, Kenya
| | - Stephanie Roche
- Department of Global Health, International Clinical Research Center, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - Kevin Kamolloh
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Irungu
- Department of Global Health, International Clinical Research Center, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Partners in Health and Research Development, Thika, Kenya
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Partners in Health and Research Development, Thika, Kenya
- Sexual Reproductive and Adolescent Child Health Research Program, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jillian Pintye
- Department of Global Health, International Clinical Research Center, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, International Clinical Research Center, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Elizabeth Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, International Clinical Research Center, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Partners in Health and Research Development, Thika, Kenya
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
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Berner-Rodoreda A, Geldsetzer P, Bärnighausen K, Hettema A, Bärnighausen T, Matse S, McMahon SA. "It's hard for us men to go to the clinic. We naturally have a fear of hospitals." Men's risk perceptions, experiences and program preferences for PrEP: A mixed methods study in Eswatini. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237427. [PMID: 32966307 PMCID: PMC7510987 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Few studies on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) have focused on men who have sex with women. We present findings from a mixed-methods study in Eswatini, the country with the highest HIV prevalence in the world (27%). Our findings are based on risk assessments, in-depth interviews and focus-group discussions which describe men’s motivations for taking up or declining PrEP. Quantitatively, men self-reported starting PrEP because they had multiple or sero-discordant partners or did not know the partner’s HIV-status. Men’s self-perception of risk was echoed in the qualitative data, which revealed that the hope of facilitated sexual performance or relations, a preference for pills over condoms and the desire to protect themselves and others also played a role for men to initiate PrEP. Trust and mistrust and being able or unable to speak about PrEP with partner(s) were further considerations for initiating or declining PrEP. Once on PrEP, men’s sexual behavior varied in terms of number of partners and condom use. Men viewed daily pill-taking as an obstacle to starting PrEP. Side-effects were a major reason for men to discontinue PrEP. Men also worried that taking anti-retroviral drugs daily might leave them mistaken for a person living with HIV, and viewed clinic-based PrEP education and initiation processes as a further obstacle. Given that men comprise only 29% of all PrEP users in Eswatini, barriers to men’s uptake of PrEP will need to be addressed, in terms of more male-friendly services as well as trialing community-based PrEP education and service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pascal Geldsetzer
- Institute of Global Health, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Kate Bärnighausen
- Institute of Global Health, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
- University of the Witwatersrand School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anita Hettema
- Clinton Health Access Initiative Swaziland, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Institute of Global Health, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sindy Matse
- Eswatini Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Shannon A. McMahon
- Institute of Global Health, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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Ortblad KF, Mogere P, Bukusi E, Ngure K, Baeten JM. Pharmacy delivery to expand the reach of PrEP in Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25619. [PMID: 32996721 PMCID: PMC7525802 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Mogere
- Partners in Health and Research DevelopmentThikaKenya
| | - Elizabeth Bukusi
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
- Department of Community HealthJomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and TechnologyNairobiKenya
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
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Pintye J, Davey DLJ, Wagner AD, John-Stewart G, Baggaley R, Bekker LG, Celum C, Chi BH, Coates TJ, Groves AK, Haberer JE, Heffron R, Kinuthia J, Matthews LT, McIntyre JA, Moodley D, Mofenson LM, Mugo N, Mujugira A, Myer L, Shoptaw S, Stranix-Chibanda L, Baeten JM. Defining gaps in pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery for pregnant and post-partum women in high-burden settings using an implementation science framework. Lancet HIV 2020; 7:e582-e592. [PMID: 32763221 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(20)30102-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a high-risk period for HIV acquisition in African women, and pregnant women who become acutely infected with HIV account for up to a third of vertical HIV transmission cases in African settings. To protect women and eliminate vertical transmission, WHO recommends offering oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) based on tenofovir to HIV-negative pregnant and post-partum women with a substantial risk of HIV acquisition. PrEP implementation for pregnant and post-partum women lags behind implementation for other high-risk populations. Unique considerations for PrEP implementation arise during pregnancy and post partum, including the integration of provider training with clinical delivery and monitoring of PrEP exposure and outcomes within existing maternal health systems, yet scarce implementation data are available to generate evidence in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Pintye
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Informatics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Dvora L Joseph Davey
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anjuli D Wagner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Benjamin H Chi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Thomas J Coates
- Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Allison K Groves
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John Kinuthia
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Research and Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lynn T Matthews
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - James A McIntyre
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Nelly Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Center for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Vanhamel J, Rotsaert A, Reyniers T, Nöstlinger C, Laga M, Van Landeghem E, Vuylsteke B. The current landscape of pre-exposure prophylaxis service delivery models for HIV prevention: a scoping review. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:704. [PMID: 32736626 PMCID: PMC7395423 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05568-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Strengthening HIV prevention is imperative given the continued high HIV incidence worldwide. The introduction of oral PrEP as a new biomedical HIV prevention tool can be a potential game changer because of its high clinical efficacy and the feasibility of its provision to different key populations. Documenting the existing experience with PrEP service delivery in a variety of real-world settings will inform how its uptake and usage can be maximised. Methods We conducted a scoping review using the five-step framework provided by Arksey and O’Malley. We systematically searched the existing peer-reviewed international and grey literature describing the implementation of real-world PrEP service delivery models reporting on four key components: the target population of PrEP services, the setting where PrEP was delivered, PrEP providers’ professionalisation and PrEP delivery channels. We restricted our search to English language articles. No geographical or time restrictions were set. Results This review included 33 articles for charting and analysing of the results. The identified service delivery models showed that PrEP services mainly targeted people at high risk of HIV acquisition, with some models targeting specific key populations, mainly men who have sex with men. PrEP was often delivered centralised and in a clinical or hospital setting. Yet also community-based as well as home-based PrEP delivery models were reported. Providers of PrEP were mainly clinically trained health professionals, but in some rare cases community workers and lay providers also delivered PrEP. In general, in-person visits were used to deliver PrEP. More innovative digital options using mHealth and telemedicine approaches to deliver specific parts of PrEP services are currently being applied in a minority of the service delivery models in mainly high-resource settings. Conclusions A range of possible combinations was found between all four components of PrEP service delivery models. This reflects differentiation of care according to different contextual settings. More research is needed on how integration of services in these contexts could be expanded and optimised to respond to key populations with unmet HIV prevention needs in different settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jef Vanhamel
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Anke Rotsaert
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christiana Nöstlinger
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marie Laga
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ella Van Landeghem
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
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Were D, Musau A, Mutegi J, Ongwen P, Manguro G, Kamau M, Marwa T, Gwaro H, Mukui I, Plotkin M, Reed J. Using a HIV prevention cascade for identifying missed opportunities in PrEP delivery in Kenya: results from a programmatic surveillance study. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 3:e25537. [PMID: 32602658 PMCID: PMC7325512 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV prevention cascades have been systematically evaluated in high-income countries, but steps in the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) service delivery cascade have not been systematically quantified in sub-Saharan Africa. We analysed missed opportunities in the PrEP cascade in a large-scale project serving female sex workers (FSW), men who have sex with men (MSM) and adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Kenya. METHODS Programmatic surveillance was conducted using routine programme data from 89 project-supported sites from February 2017 to December 2019, and complemented by qualitative data. Healthcare providers used nationally approved tools to document service statistics. The analyses examined proportions of people moving onto the next step in the PrEP continuum, and identified missed opportunities. Missed opportunities were defined as implementation gaps exemplified by the proportion of individuals who could have potentially accessed each step of the PrEP cascade and did not. We also assessed trends in the cascade indicators at monthly intervals. Qualitative data were collected through 28 focus group discussions with 241 FSW, MSM, AGYW and healthcare providers, and analysed thematically to identify reasons underpinning the missed opportunities. RESULTS During the study period, 299,798 individuals tested HIV negative (211,927 FSW, 47,533 MSM and 40,338 AGYW). Missed opportunities in screening for PrEP eligibility was 58% for FSW, 45% for MSM and 78% for AGYW. Of those screened, 28% FSW, 25% MSM and 65% AGYW were ineligible. Missed opportunities for PrEP initiation were lower among AGYW (8%) compared to FSW (72%) and MSM (75%). Continuation rates were low across all populations at Month-1 (ranging from 29% to 32%) and Month-3 (6% to 8%). Improvements in average annual Month-1 (from 26% to 41%) and Month-3 (from 4% to 15%) continuation rates were observed between 2017 and 2019. While initiation rates were better among younger FSW, MSM and AGYW (<30 years), the reverse was true for continuation. CONCLUSIONS The application of a PrEP cascade framework facilitated this large-scale oral PrEP programme to conduct granular programmatic analysis, detecting "leaks" in the cascade. These informed programme adjustments to mitigate identified gaps resulting in improvement of selected programmatic outcomes. PrEP programmes are encouraged to introduce the cascade analysis framework into new and existing programming to optimize HIV prevention outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Irene Mukui
- National AIDS and STI Control ProgramNairobiKenya
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Irungu EM, Baeten JM. PrEP rollout in Africa: status and opportunity. Nat Med 2020; 26:655-664. [PMID: 32405065 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-0872-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Following recommendations by the World Health Organization in 2015, and key clinical trials, countries in sub-Saharan Africa, the region with the highest burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), developed policies that incorporate pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) into national HIV-prevention strategies. By the end of 2019, more than one third of people receiving PrEP globally were in Africa. Crucial understandings gained from early rollout among at-risk populations, such as HIV-serodiscordant couples, adolescent girls and young women, female sex workers, and men who have sex with men, include the importance of strategies for maintaining persistent adherence to PrEP and novel approaches to making PrEP services accessible, simplified and efficient. This Perspective will discuss the current status of these programs and how to further widen their implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Irungu
- College of Health Sciences, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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Taggart T, Bond KT, Ritchwood TD, Smith JC. Getting youth PrEPared: adolescent consent laws and implications for the availability of PrEP among youth in countries outside of the United States. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25363. [PMID: 31369211 PMCID: PMC6672744 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Youth under the age of 25 are at high risk for HIV infection. While pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has the potential to curb new infections within this population, it is unclear how country-specific laws and policies that govern youth access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services impact access to PrEP. The purpose of this review was to analyse laws and policies concerning PrEP implementation and SRH services available to youth in countries with a high HIV incidence. To the best of our knowledge this is the first systematic assessment of country-level policies that impact the availability of PrEP to adolescent populations. METHODS We conducted a review of national policies published on or before 12 June 2018 that could impact adolescents' access to PrEP, SRH services and ability to consent to medical intervention. Countries were included if: (1) there was a high incidence of HIV; (2) they had active PrEP trials or PrEP was available for distribution; (3) information regarding PrEP guidelines were publicly available. We also included a selected number of countries with lower adolescent HIV incidence. Internet and legal database searches were used to identify policies relevant to adolescent PrEP (e.g. age of consent to HIV testing). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Fifteen countries were selected for inclusion in this review. Countries varied considerably in their respective laws and policies governing adolescents' access to PrEP, HIV testing and SRH services. Six countries had specific polices around the provision of PrEP to youth under the age of 18. Five countries required people to be 18 years or older to access HIV testing, and six countries had specific laws addressing adolescent consent for- and access to- contraceptives. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents' access to PrEP without parental consent remains limited or uncertain in many countries where this biomedical intervention is needed. Observational and qualitative studies are needed to determine if and how adolescent consent laws are followed in relation to adolescent PrEP provisions. Intensified efforts to amend laws that limit adolescent access to PrEP and restrict the establishment of national guidelines supporting adolescent PrEP are also needed to address the epidemic in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Taggart
- Department of Prevention and Community HealthGeorge Washington UniversityWashingtonDCUSA
- Department of Social and Behavioral SciencesYale School of Public HealthNew HavenCTUSA
| | - Keosha T Bond
- Department of Public HealthNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDSYale School of Public HealthNew HavenCTUSA
| | - Tiarney D Ritchwood
- Department of Family Medicine and Community HealthDuke University School of MedicineDurhamNCUSA
| | - Justin C Smith
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health EducationEmory University Rollins School of Public HealthAtlantaGAUSA
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