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Lier AJ, Tarfa A, Shenoi SV, Kuo I, Springer SA. HIV and Substance Use Disorders. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2024:S0891-5520(24)00037-0. [PMID: 38960783 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2024.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Over 1.2 million Americans aged 13 years and older have been diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). While HIV incidence has been declining since 2017, the risk of HIV acquisition and transmission persists among persons who use drugs via injection drug use and unprotected sexual intercourse associated with substance use. Untreated substance use disorder (SUD) is associated with poor adherence to HIV antiretroviral therapy, poor HIV outcomes, and increased risk for HIV acquisition. Herein, we describe the intertwined syndemic of HIV and SUD, as well as treatment strategies and evidence-based public health efforts to engage and retain persons who use drugs into care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audun J Lier
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University; Northport Veterans Administration Medical Center, 79 Middleville Road, Northport, NY 11768, USA
| | - Adati Tarfa
- Yale University School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 280, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Sheela V Shenoi
- Veterans Administration Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Irene Kuo
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University, Milken Institute School of Public Health, 950 New Hampshire Avenue Northwest, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Sandra A Springer
- Veterans Administration Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
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Starks TJ, Sauermilch D, Doyle KM, Kalichman S, Cain D. Main Partner Relationships and the HIV Care Cascade: Examining the Predictive Utility of Sexual Agreements, Partner Concordance, and Drug Use Among Sexual Minority Men Living With HIV in the USA. Ann Behav Med 2024; 58:422-431. [PMID: 38703112 PMCID: PMC11112277 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaae019] [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: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The past 15 years have seen increasing attention to relationship factors among sexual minority male (SMM) couples at high risk for HIV infection. Research has largely focused on HIV prevention outcomes. Outcomes relevant to SMM living with HIV have received relatively less attention. PURPOSE This study evaluated associations between relational covariates (relationship status, sexual agreements, and seroconcordance) and HIV care cascade outcomes (having a current antiretroviral therapy [ART] prescription, ART adherence, viral load (VL) testing, and VL detectability) above and beyond cannabis and stimulant drug use. METHODS Adult SMM (n = 36,874) living with HIV in the USA were recruited between November 1, 2017 and March 15, 2020 through social networking applications. They completed a cross-sectional survey online. RESULTS Nonmonogamous SMM with serodiscordant partners were most likely to have an ART prescription. Those with seroconcordant partners (regardless of sexual agreements) were least likely to be adherent. While relational covariates were not associated with VL testing, SMM in nonmonogamous relationships with serodiscordant partners were significantly more likely to have an undetectable VL. Those in monogamous relationships with seroconcordant partners were significantly less likely to have an undetectable VL. CONCLUSIONS SMM with seroconcordant partners and monogamous sexual agreements may experience diminished interpersonal motivation for HIV care engagement. HIV care cascade retention messages that emphasize the prevention of onward transmission may have limited relevance for these SMM. Novel intervention strategies are needed to enhance HIV care outcomes in this population, ideally ones that incorporate attention to drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyrel J Starks
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Health Psychology and Clinical Science Doctoral Program, Department of Psychology, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Kendell M Doyle
- Health Psychology and Clinical Science Doctoral Program, Department of Psychology, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Seth Kalichman
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Demetria Cain
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
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3
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Ross EJ, Williams RS, Viamonte M, Reynolds JM, Duncan DT, Paul RH, Carrico AW. Overamped: Stimulant Use and HIV Pathogenesis. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:321-332. [PMID: 37971597 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00672-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: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In the era of HIV treatment as prevention (TasP), more clarity is needed regarding whether people with HIV who use stimulants (i.e., methamphetamine, powder cocaine, and crack cocaine) display elevated HIV viral load and greater immune dysregulation. RECENT FINDINGS Although rates of viral suppression have improved in the TasP era, stimulant use was independently associated with elevated viral load in 23 of 28 studies included in our review. In the 12 studies examining other HIV disease markers, there was preliminary evidence for stimulant-associated alterations in gut-immune dysfunction and cellular immunity despite effective HIV treatment. Studies generally focused on documenting the direct associations of stimulant use with biomarkers of HIV pathogenesis without placing these in the context of social determinants of health. Stimulant use is a key barrier to optimizing the effectiveness of TasP. Elucidating the microbiome-gut-brain axis pathways whereby stimulants alter neuroimmune functioning could identify viable targets for pharmacotherapies for stimulant use disorders. Examining interpersonal, neighborhood, and structural determinants that could modify the associations of stimulant use with biomarkers of HIV pathogenesis is critical to guiding the development of comprehensive, multi-level interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Ross
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Renessa S Williams
- University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | | | - John M Reynolds
- Calder Memorial Library, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Robert H Paul
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, 11200 S.W. 8th Street, AHC5, #407, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
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Brousseau NM, Kalichman SC, Watson RJ, Eaton LA. Amphetamine use and its associations with antiretroviral adherence and viral load among sexual minority men and transgender women living with HIV. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1472-1479. [PMID: 37139536 PMCID: PMC10524564 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2206096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Substance use has complex associations to HIV disease progression. The current study tested the associations between several substances and HIV viral load while accounting for confounders relevant to HIV disease progression and substance use. Young sexual minority men and transgender women living with HIV (LWH) in Georgia (N = 385) completed measures and biological tests for HIV viral load and substance use. Multivariable regression models tested the role of specific drugs (i.e., alcohol, cannabis/THC, cocaine, and combined amphetamine and methamphetamine) directly on viral load and indirectly through antiretroviral (ART) adherence. ART adherence and HIV care self-efficacy were consistently associated with greater HIV suppression. Alcohol and cocaine were not associated with ART adherence or viral load. Cannabis was negatively associated with ART adherence (B = -.053, p = .037) but not viral load. Amphetamine/methamphetamine demonstrated significant direct effects on higher viral load (B = .708, p = .010) while indirectly influencing viral load through a negative association with ART adherence. Our findings support previous research demonstrating amphetamine/methamphetamine use impacts viral load both directly and indirectly through ART adherence. Interventions addressing amphetamine/methamphetamine use by young sexual minority men and transgender women LWH are urgently needed, and future research should focus on determining the mechanisms by which formulations of amphetamine impact HIV replication.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03665532.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie M Brousseau
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Seth C Kalichman
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Ryan J Watson
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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Shrader CH, Stephenson R, Moody R, Knox J. Binge Drinking Moderates Unprotected Sex Among HIV Sero-Similar Same Sex Male Couples: An Actor-Partner Interdependence Model. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:1824-1835. [PMID: 36441407 PMCID: PMC10149586 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03914-z] [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: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Most new HIV diagnoses in the US occur among sexual minority men (SMM). The majority (69%) of new HIV diagnoses among US SMM are due to transmission from main sex partners. We identified multilevel correlates of unprotected anal intercourse (UAI; condomless anal intercourse while not using a biomedical strategy) among SMM couples using the Actor Partner Interdependence Model (APIM). Participants were US SMM over 18 years, with a primary male partner > 6 months. Couples were recruited online from April 2016 until June 2017 and interviewed using self-administered computer-assisted surveys. We used a series of APIM regressions to assess multilevel associations with UAI. We also tested the moderating role of an individual's binge drinking on the relationship between HIV status similarity and UAI. Among 798 participants (n = 411 couples), 61% reported UAI in the past 6 months. Binge drinking (52%) and physical intimate partner violence (IPV; 34%) were considerably high within our sample. Actor's binge drinking, reporting experiencing and/or perpetrating physical IPV, and partner's trust were positively associated with UAI. Actor having other sexual partner(s), using illegal drugs (not marijuana), and length of relationship were negatively associated with UAI. Binge drinking positively moderated UAI among HIV serostatus similar partners. HIV prevention programming should integrate components on IPV and binge drinking reduction- especially among HIV serostatus similar couples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Raymond Moody
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Justin Knox
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA.
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Meyers-Pantele SA, Rendina J, Talan A, Shalhav O, Lammert S, Horvath KJ. Characterizing substance use typologies and their association with HIV viral load outcomes: A latent class analysis among sexual minority men living with HIV. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 227:108928. [PMID: 34333279 PMCID: PMC8900681 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racially diverse sexual minority men (SMM) are disproportionately impacted by the U.S. HIV epidemic. Substance use, particularly stimulant use, may impact viral suppression for SMM living with HIV. The current study sought to characterize patterns of substance use via latent class analysis (LCA) and test associations between those patterns and future viral load outcomes, among SMM living with HIV. METHODS Data were drawn from Thrive With Me (TWM), an RCT of an mHealth intervention targeting ART adherence among SMM living with HIV. LCA was performed with six dichotomous indicators of substance use, derived from validated measures and urinalysis results, to determine substance use classes at baseline. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models tested associations between baseline substance use classes and HIV viral load 5-months post-baseline. RESULTS Among 383 SMM living with HIV, we identified a three-class model of substance use fit best: low probability substance use (81.3 %), high probability hazardous alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine use (7.5 %), and high probability methamphetamine and amphetamine use (11.2 %). Additionally, the high probability amphetamine use class was less likely to be virally suppressed at 5-month follow-up compared to the low probability substance use class [Adjusted Odds Ratio = 3.34, 95 % Confidence Interval = 1.39-7.99, p = .0069]. CONCLUSION We identified that some patterns of substance use (i.e., methamphetamine and amphetamine use), but possibly not others (e.g., alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine use), are potentially important intervention targets for improving HIV-related outcomes among racially diverse SMM living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. A. Meyers-Pantele
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - J. Rendina
- PRIDE Health Research Consortium, Department of Psychology, Hunter College City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - A. Talan
- PRIDE Health Research Consortium, Department of Psychology, Hunter College City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - O. Shalhav
- PRIDE Health Research Consortium, Department of Psychology, Hunter College City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - S. Lammert
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - K. J. Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
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Maloney KM, Beer L, Tie Y, Dasgupta S. Prevalence of Non-medical Amphetamine Use Among Men with Diagnosed HIV Infection Who Have Sex with Men in the United States, 2015-2016. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1865-1875. [PMID: 31834542 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02761-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Amphetamine use is higher among men who have sex with men (MSM) compared with other men, and is associated with sexual behavior linked to HIV transmission. No national estimates of amphetamine use among MSM with HIV have been published. We used data from the Medical Monitoring Project, a nationally representative sample of persons with diagnosed HIV, to describe patterns in amphetamine use in the past 12 months among MSM during 2015-2016 (N = 3796). Prevalence of amphetamine use in this population was 9.6% (95% CI 7.6, 11.6%) in the past 12 months. MSM who used amphetamines were more likely to have condomless sex with partners without HIV or of unknown serostatus (PR 1.87; 95% CI 1.62, 2.16) and less likely to be durably virally suppressed (PR 0.81; 95% CI 0.71, 0.91). Interventions to address amphetamine use and associated transmission risk behaviors among MSM living with HIV may decrease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Maloney
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Linda Beer
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yunfeng Tie
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sharoda Dasgupta
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Mimiaga MJ, Pantalone DW, Biello KB, White Hughto JM, Frank J, O’Cleirigh C, Reisner SL, Restar A, Mayer KH, Safren SA. An initial randomized controlled trial of behavioral activation for treatment of concurrent crystal methamphetamine dependence and sexual risk for HIV acquisition among men who have sex with men. AIDS Care 2019; 31:1083-1095. [PMID: 30887824 PMCID: PMC6625920 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1595518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) continue to be the largest risk group for HIV infections in the U.S., where crystal methamphetamine abuse heightens risk for HIV infection through greater engagement in condomless anal sex (CAS). Existing treatments lack attention to replacement activities or the role of depressed mood. Behavioral activation (BA) is an evidence-based approach for depression that involves identifying and participating in pleasurable, goal-directed activities. We hypothesize, for MSM abusing crystal methamphetamine, re-learning how to engage in non-drug-using aspects of life would facilitate their ability to benefit from sexual risk reduction (SRR) counseling. Project IMPACT was a pilot randomized-controlled-trial. Forty-six MSM at sexual risk of acquiring HIV who met DSM-IV criteria for crystal methamphetamine dependence were enrolled. Of those MSM, 41 were randomized: 21 were assigned to the intervention, two sessions of SRR, ten sessions of BA with SRR, and one session of relapse prevention; 20 participants were assigned to a control condition (two sessions of SRR). At the acute post-intervention visit, intervention participants reported an average of 3.2 CAS acts with men who were HIV-infected or whose status they did not know, compared to 4.5 among control participants (β = -0.36; 95% CI: -0.69, -0.02; p = 0.035). At the 6-month post-intervention visit, intervention participants reported 1.1 CAS acts with men who were HIV-infected or whose status they did not know compared to 2.8 among control participants (β = -0.95; 95% CI: -1.44, -0.46; p < 0.0001). Similarly, intervention participants reported 1.0 CAS acts under the influence of crystal methamphetamine with men who were HIV-infected or whose status they did not know compared to 2.5 among control participants (β = -0.87; 95% CI: -1.38, -0.36; p = 0.0005). Lastly, intervention participants reported more continuous days abstaining from crystal methamphetamine compared to control (50.1 vs. 39.0, respectively) (β = 0.25; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.34; p < 0.0001). Findings are encouraging, provide evidence of feasibility and acceptability, and demonstrate initial efficacy for reducing sexual risk for HIV and crystal methamphetamine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Mimiaga
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Departments of Behavioral & Social Health Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David W. Pantalone
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Katie B. Biello
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Departments of Behavioral & Social Health Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jackie M. White Hughto
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - John Frank
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Departments of Behavioral & Social Health Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Conall O’Cleirigh
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Behavioral Medicine Service, Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sari L. Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Arjee Restar
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Departments of Behavioral & Social Health Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Kenneth H. Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Harvard Medical School/Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Steven A. Safren
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
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Pearson CR, Kaysen D, Huh D, Bedard-Gilligan M. Randomized Control Trial of Culturally Adapted Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD Substance Misuse and HIV Sexual Risk Behavior for Native American Women. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:695-706. [PMID: 30607757 PMCID: PMC6407746 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-02382-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
An overlooked sequela of HIV risk is trauma exposure, yet few HIV interventions address trauma exposure, mental health, and substance misuse. In a two-arm randomized controlled trial 73 Native American women were randomized to a culturally-adapted Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) or 6-weeks waitlist. Outcomes assessed: PTSD symptom severity, alcohol use frequency, substance abuse or dependence diagnosis, and high-risk sexual behavior defined as vaginal/anal intercourse (a) under the influence of alcohol and/or illicit substances, (b) with a partner who was concurrently sexually active with someone else, and/or (c) with more than one partner in the past 6 weeks. Among immediate intervention participants, compared to waitlist participants, there were large reductions in PTSD symptom severity, high-risk sexual behavior, and a medium-to-large reduction in the frequency of alcohol use. CPT appears to improve mental health and risk behaviors, suggesting that addressing PTSD may be one way of improving HIV-risk related outcomes.
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van den Berg JJ, Zaller ND, Gillani FS, Dunsiger SI, Marshall BDL, Kahler CW, Operario D. Longitudinal HIV Transmission Risk Profiles Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With HIV in the SUN Study. Am J Mens Health 2018; 13:1557988318818283. [PMID: 30541366 PMCID: PMC6775677 DOI: 10.1177/1557988318818283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Examining how multiple concomitant factors interact to augment HIV transmission risk is needed to inform more effective primary and secondary HIV prevention programs for men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States. The development of a “taxonomy” of long-term sexual and drug-related risk behavior profiles may have important implications for resource allocation and targeted HIV prevention programming. A secondary data analysis was conducted to explore longitudinal HIV transmission risk profiles among 423 MSM living with HIV enrolled in the Study to Understand the Natural History of HIV and AIDS in the Era of Effective Therapy (SUN Study). Between March 2004 and February 2012, participants completed semiannual, audio computer-assisted self-interviews that included demographics, employment status, medical information, alcohol use, stimulant use, sexual risk, and depression. Latent class analysis was used to identify patterns of risky behavior over time with respect to sexual risk, heavy drinking, and stimulant (i.e., methamphetamine and cocaine) use taken collectively. Three classes were identified: (a) High Sustained Heavy Drinker Class (33%), (b) High Mostly Stable Sexual Risk Class (17%), and (c) Overall Low Risk Class. (50%). Post hoc comparisons between classes revealed that men in Classes 1 (p = .03) and 2 (p = .02) were significantly younger than those in Class 3. In comparison to those in Classes 1 and 3, those in Class 2 were less likely to report being a racial/ethnic minority (p = .04) and had the highest self-reported sexually transmitted infections (p < .001). Findings indicate the need to better integrate sexual and substance use risk reduction strategies, including brief interventions and engagement in addiction treatment, for MSM living with HIV in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob J van den Berg
- 1 Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Nickolas D Zaller
- 2 Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Fizza S Gillani
- 3 Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Shira I Dunsiger
- 1 Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Brandon D L Marshall
- 4 Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Christopher W Kahler
- 1 Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Don Operario
- 1 Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
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Is Alcohol Use Associated With Increased Risk of Developing Adverse Health Outcomes Among Adults Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Systematic Review. J Addict Nurs 2018; 29:96-118. [PMID: 29864058 DOI: 10.1097/jan.0000000000000220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use is associated with many HIV-related behaviors that are associated with increased risk of reinfection, transmission, and poorer health outcomes in people living with HIV (PLHIV). The population of middle-aged and older PLHIV is growing because of increased life longevity and aging trend. METHODS A systematic review across three databases was conducted to evaluate existing studies that examined the association between alcohol use and medication adherence, high-risk sex behaviors, HIV progression, depression, resource utilization, and survival among studies of PLHIV with an average age of 40 years and above. RESULTS Among the 47 included studies, most found a positive association between alcohol use and depression, risky sex behaviors, medication nonadherence, and healthcare resource utilization among PLHIV. The association between alcohol use and response to treatment was variable. The association between alcohol use and survival warrants further study because of lack of existing studies. CONCLUSIONS The results of this review support that alcohol use negatively impacts middle-aged and older PLHIV in many aspects; however, there is lack of studies exclusively targeting older PLHIV, and more relevant studies in the future are needed.
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Critical Review: When the Party is Over: A Systematic Review of Behavioral Interventions for Substance-Using Men Who Have Sex with Men. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 73:299-306. [PMID: 27258233 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Because problematic patterns of alcohol and other substance use are prevalent drivers of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, comprehensive interventions are needed for substance-using men who have sex with men (SUMSM). We conducted a systematic review of 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of behavioral interventions for reducing condomless anal intercourse (CAI) in SUMSM. Three RCTs observed that cognitive behavioral or motivational interviewing interventions achieved a 24% to 40% decrease in CAI. Interventions also tended to demonstrate greater efficacy for reducing CAI and substance use among those who had lower severity of substance use disorder symptoms. Although behavioral interventions for SUMSM are one potentially important component of biobehavioral HIV/AIDS prevention, further research is needed to examine whether integrative approaches that cultivate resilience and target co-occurring syndemic conditions demonstrate greater efficacy. Multilevel intervention approaches are also needed to optimize the effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis and HIV treatment as prevention with SUMSM.
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Minassian A, Henry BL, Iudicello JE, Morgan EE, Letendre SL, Heaton RK, Perry W. Everyday functional ability in HIV and methamphetamine dependence. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 175:60-66. [PMID: 28399475 PMCID: PMC5603270 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methamphetamine (METH) use is a risk factor for the transmission of HIV. Each is associated with neurocognitive impairment and subsequent problems in everyday functioning, yet additive effects of HIV and METH are not consistently observed. This study used the UCSD Performance-Based Skills Assessment (UPSA-2) to assess whether METH use disorder and HIV together resulted in poorer functional outcome than either condition alone. METHOD Participants in the Translational Methamphetamine AIDS Research Center (TMARC) cohort were stratified based upon HIV infection and METH use disorder: HIV-/METH- (n=49), HIV-/METH+ (n=48), HIV+/METH- (n=37), and HIV+/METH+ (n=38). They were administered the UPSA-2 which measures abilities in six domains of everyday functioning. Main effects and interactions of HIV and METH were examined, as were relationships between UPSA-2 scores and disease characteristics. RESULTS Significant HIV-by-METH interactions were observed for the UPSA-2 total score and Comprehension/Planning and Financial subscales such that METH was associated with lower scores in HIV- participants but not HIV+ participants. METH was associated with lower scores on the Communications subscale. All three risk groups had lower scores than HIV-/METH- participants. Recency and frequency of METH use were associated with lower scores. Lower Medication Management scores were related to lower nadir CD4 counts. CONCLUSIONS METH use disorder and HIV each impair functional performance, but there is no additive effect when the two conditions occur together. The neurocognitive sequelae of combined HIV infection and METH use are complex and warrant further study, as do the potential effects of compensatory strategies and other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpi Minassian
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), Veteran's Administration, San Diego, CA, United States.
| | - Brook L. Henry
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | | | - Erin E. Morgan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Scott L. Letendre
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Robert K. Heaton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - William Perry
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
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14
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Starks TJ, Millar BM, Lassiter JM, Parsons JT. Preintervention Profiles of Information, Motivational, and Behavioral Self-Efficacy for Methamphetamine Use and HIV Medication Adherence Among Gay and Bisexual Men. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2017; 31:78-86. [PMID: 28092450 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2016.0196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Although rates of crystal methamphetamine use in the United States have fallen from their peak in the mid-2000s, use remains a major public health concern, which disproportionately affects gay and bisexual men (GBM). It poses a particular challenge for HIV-positive men, for whom it has been linked to medication adherence problems as well as compromised immune function. Although the information, motivation, and behavioral skills (IMB) model has been widely used to conceptualize health behavior, little is known about GBM's initial levels of information, motivation, and behavioral self-efficacy to improve HIV medication adherence and to reduce crystal methamphetamine use at the outset of treatment. The present study identified profiles of IMB factors related to HIV medication adherence and crystal methamphetamine use in a sample of 210 HIV-positive GBM who consented to participate in an intervention study. Results indicated three distinct patterns of IMB factors. The largest group was ready to change both adherence and methamphetamine use (n = 104). This group also had depression scores that were significantly lower than other groups. A second group appeared ready to change medication adherence, but was ambivalent about changing methamphetamine use (n = 60). This group reported significantly more symptoms of methamphetamine dependence than the other groups. A third group was characterized by global IMB barriers to change (n = 46). Results are discussed in the context of tailoring psychoeducation, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral interventions to match these preintervention patterns of IMB factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyrel J. Starks
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- Health Psychology and Clinical Science Doctoral Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, New York
| | - Brett M. Millar
- Health Psychology and Clinical Science Doctoral Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, New York
| | - Jonathan M. Lassiter
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, New York
- Department of Psychology, Muhlenberg College, Allentown, Pennsylvania
| | - Jeffrey T. Parsons
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- Health Psychology and Clinical Science Doctoral Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, New York
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15
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Batchelder AW, Safren S, Mitchell AD, Ivardic I, O’Cleirigh C. Mental health in 2020 for men who have sex with men in the United States. Sex Health 2017; 14:59-71. [PMID: 28055823 PMCID: PMC5953431 DOI: 10.1071/sh16083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Despite continued advances in HIV prevention and treatment, gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) remain the population most impacted by HIV/AIDS in the US and many other Western countries. Additionally, MSM are disproportionately affected by various psychological problems, including depression, distress, trauma and substance use. These challenges frequently co-occur, and are associated with higher rates of behaviours related to HIV acquisition and transmission, HIV infection, and, for those living with HIV/AIDS, lower levels of treatment engagement. Moreover, racial disparities exist among MSM in the US; for example, young African American MSM bear a disproportionate burden of the continuing HIV epidemic, likely related to disparate HIV prevalence in partner pools as well as long-standing structural inequities. In this review, the mental health challenges facing MSM primarily in the US, related to HIV and STI prevention and across the HIV care cascade, including HIV diagnosis, engagement and retention in care, and antiretroviral adherence, are illustrated. Disparities among MSM including racial and ethnic, age-related and structural barriers associated with HIV prevention and treatment, as well as current interventions, are also described. Moving forward towards 2020, resources will be needed to assess and implement scalable intervention strategies to address psychological and social barriers to HIV and STI risk reduction and treatment for MSM, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable subpopulations. As access to prevention and treatment strategies expand, and new breakthroughs continue to emerge, behavioural strategies will continue to be needed to reduce risk and increase uptake and engagement among MSM most at risk through 2020 and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail W. Batchelder
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, One Bowdoin Square, 7th floor, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, 1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Steven Safren
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, PO Box 248185, Coral Gables, FL 33124, USA
| | - Avery D. Mitchell
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, 1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, 235 E. Cameron Avenue, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ivan Ivardic
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, PO Box 248185, Coral Gables, FL 33124, USA
| | - Conall O’Cleirigh
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, One Bowdoin Square, 7th floor, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, 1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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16
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Sriram U, Hill BL, Cenna JM, Gofman L, Fernandes NC, Haldar B, Potula R. Impaired Subset Progression and Polyfunctionality of T Cells in Mice Exposed to Methamphetamine during Chronic LCMV Infection. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0164966. [PMID: 27760221 PMCID: PMC5070876 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0164966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) is a widely used psychostimulant that severely impacts the host’s innate and adaptive immune systems and has profound immunological implications. T cells play a critical role in orchestrating immune responses. We have shown recently how chronic exposure to METH affects T cell activation using a murine model of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection. Using the TriCOM (trinary state combinations) feature of GemStone™ to study the polyfunctionality of T cells, we have analyzed how METH affected the cytokine production pattern over the course of chronic LCMV infection. Furthermore, we have studied in detail the effects of METH on splenic T cell functions, such as cytokine production and degranulation, and how they regulate each other. We used the Probability State Modeling (PSM) program to visualize the differentiation of effector/memory T cell subsets during LCMV infection and analyze the effects of METH on T cell subset progression. We recently demonstrated that METH increased PD-1 expression on T cells during viral infection. In this study, we further analyzed the impact of PD-1 expression on T cell functional markers as well as its expression in the effector/memory subsets. Overall, our study indicates that analyzing polyfunctionality of T cells can provide additional insight into T cell effector functions. Analysis of T cell heterogeneity is important to highlight changes in the evolution of memory/effector functions during chronic viral infections. Our study also highlights the impact of METH on PD-1 expression and its consequences on T cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uma Sriram
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, United States of America
| | - Beth L. Hill
- Verity Software House, Topsham, Maine, United States of America
| | - Jonathan M. Cenna
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, United States of America
| | - Larisa Gofman
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, United States of America
| | - Nicole C. Fernandes
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, United States of America
| | - Bijayesh Haldar
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, United States of America
| | - Raghava Potula
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, United States of America
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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17
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Conroy AA, Gamarel KE, Neilands TB, Dilworth SE, Darbes LA, Johnson MO. Relationship Dynamics and Partner Beliefs About Viral Suppression: A Longitudinal Study of Male Couples Living with HIV/AIDS (The Duo Project). AIDS Behav 2016; 20:1572-83. [PMID: 27150895 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1423-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Accurate beliefs about partners' viral suppression are important for HIV prevention and care. We fit multilevel mixed effects logistic regression models to examine associations between partners' viral suppression beliefs and objective HIV RNA viral load tests, and whether relationship dynamics were associated with accurate viral suppression beliefs over time. Male couples (N = 266 couples) with at least one HIV-positive partner on antiretroviral therapy completed five assessments over 2 years. Half of the 407 HIV-positive partners were virally suppressed. Of the 40 % who had inaccurate viral load beliefs, 80 % assumed their partner was suppressed. The odds of having accurate viral load beliefs decreased over time (OR = 0.83; p = 0.042). Within-couple differences in dyadic adjustment (OR = 0.66; p < 0.01) and commitment (OR = 0.82; p = 0.022) were negatively associated with accurate viral load beliefs. Beliefs about a partner's viral load may factor into sexual decision-making and social support. Couple-based approaches are warranted to improve knowledge of partners' viral load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy A Conroy
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California - San Francisco, 550 16th Street 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California - San Francisco, 550 16th Street 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Samantha E Dilworth
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California - San Francisco, 550 16th Street 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lynae A Darbes
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mallory O Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California - San Francisco, 550 16th Street 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, USA
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18
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Azar P, Wood E, Nguyen P, Luma M, Montaner J, Kerr T, Milloy MJ. Drug use patterns associated with risk of non-adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-positive illicit drug users in a Canadian setting: a longitudinal analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2015; 15:193. [PMID: 25927573 PMCID: PMC4411762 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-015-0913-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among people living with HIV/AIDS, illicit drug use is a risk for sub-optimal treatment outcomes. However, few studies have examined the relative contributions of different patterns of drug use on adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). We sought to estimate the effect of different types of illicit drug use on adherence in a setting of universal free HIV/AIDS treatment and care. METHODS Using data from ongoing prospective cohorts of HIV-positive illicit drug users linked to comprehensive pharmacy dispensation records in Vancouver, Canada, we examined factors associated with ≥95% prescription refill adherence using generalized estimating equations (GEE) logistic regression. RESULTS Between 1996 and 2013, 692 ART-exposed individuals were followed for a median of 42.7 months (Interquartile Range: 29.1-71.7). In multivariable GEE analyses, heroin injection (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 0.75, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.66-0.85) as well as cocaine injection (AOR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.72-0.90) were associated with lower likelihoods of optimal adherence. Methadone maintenance therapy (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.68-2.11) was associated with a greater likelihood of adherence. CONCLUSIONS Periods of heroin and cocaine injection appeared to have the most deleterious impact upon antiretroviral adherence. The findings point to the need for improved access to treatment for heroin use disorder, particularly methadone, and highlight the need to identify strategies to support ART adherence among cocaine injectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pouya Azar
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Evan Wood
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada. .,Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Paul Nguyen
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Maxo Luma
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Julio Montaner
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada. .,Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Thomas Kerr
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada. .,Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - M-J Milloy
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada. .,Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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19
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Stimulant use patterns and HIV transmission risk among HIV-serodiscordant male couples. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 68:147-51. [PMID: 25590269 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use is strongly linked to HIV risk, and members of couples can have a powerful influence on each other's health behaviors. We examined whether couple-level patterns of stimulant use were differentially associated with engaging in condomless anal intercourse with primary partners and outside partners. METHODS Members of HIV serodiscordant male couples (N = 117 couples, 232 men) completed surveys, and HIV-positive men had blood drawn for viral load. RESULTS Results revealed that stimulant use by only one partner in the couple was associated with a decrease in the odds of engaging in condomless anal sex with one's primary partner (AOR = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.89). When both partners reported stimulant use, the HIV-negative partner had an increase in the odds of condomless sex with outside partners (AOR = 6.68, 95% CI: 1.09, 8.01). CONCLUSIONS Understanding the role of couples' stimulant use patterns in HIV transmission risk is an important area for future research and intervention.
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20
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Feldman MB, Thomas JA, Alexy ER, Irvine MK. Crystal methamphetamine use and HIV medical outcomes among HIV-infected men who have sex with men accessing support services in New York. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 147:266-71. [PMID: 25482501 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.09.780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Revised: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug use poses multiple challenges to maintaining physical health among HIV-infected individuals, particularly with regard to disease progression. Few studies, however, have examined the association between the use of crystal methamphetamine ("crystal meth") and HIV disease progression specifically among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM). Understanding this relationship among HIV-infected MSM is particularly critical because of the high rates of crystal meth use reported in the population. METHODS Associations between recent crystal meth use and poor HIV medical outcomes (viral load>200 copies/mL, CD4 count <350 cells/mm(3)) were analyzed for 2896 HIV-infected MSM enrolled in Ryan White Part A programs in the greater New York metropolitan area between November 2010 and June 2012. RESULTS Crystal meth use (reported by 4%) was independently associated with unsuppressed viral load (AOR=1.8, CI=1.1-2.9) in multivariate analyses controlling for sociodemographic characteristics. There was no significant relationship between crystal meth use and low CD4 counts. CONCLUSIONS To date, little research has examined how crystal meth use influences HIV medical outcomes among HIV-infected MSM. This analysis showed a significant independent association between crystal meth use and unsuppressed viral load among MSM in an HIV service population. Future studies should examine biological and psychosocial mediators, moderators and confounders of this relationship to inform intervention development for MSM crystal meth users in HIV care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Feldman
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101-4132, United States.
| | - Jacinthe A Thomas
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101-4132, United States
| | - Emily R Alexy
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101-4132, United States
| | - Mary K Irvine
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101-4132, United States
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