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Dickstein DR, Edwards CR, Rowan CR, Avanessian B, Chubak BM, Wheldon CW, Simoes PK, Buckstein MH, Keefer LA, Safer JD, Sigel K, Goodman KA, Rosser BRS, Goldstone SE, Wong SY, Marshall DC. Pleasurable and problematic receptive anal intercourse and diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 21:377-405. [PMID: 38763974 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-024-00932-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The ability to experience pleasurable sexual activity is important for human health. Receptive anal intercourse (RAI) is a common, though frequently stigmatized, pleasurable sexual activity. Little is known about how diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus and their treatments affect RAI. Engaging in RAI with gastrointestinal disease can be difficult due to the unpredictability of symptoms and treatment-related toxic effects. Patients might experience sphincter hypertonicity, gastrointestinal symptom-specific anxiety, altered pelvic blood flow from structural disorders, decreased sensation from cancer-directed therapies or body image issues from stoma creation. These can result in problematic RAI - encompassing anodyspareunia (painful RAI), arousal dysfunction, orgasm dysfunction and decreased sexual desire. Therapeutic strategies for problematic RAI in patients living with gastrointestinal diseases and/or treatment-related dysfunction include pelvic floor muscle strengthening and stretching, psychological interventions, and restorative devices. Providing health-care professionals with a framework to discuss pleasurable RAI and diagnose problematic RAI can help improve patient outcomes. Normalizing RAI, affirming pleasure from RAI and acknowledging that the gastrointestinal system is involved in sexual pleasure, sexual function and sexual health will help transform the scientific paradigm of sexual health to one that is more just and equitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Dickstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Collin R Edwards
- Department of Radiology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Catherine R Rowan
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Bella Avanessian
- Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Barbara M Chubak
- Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christopher W Wheldon
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Priya K Simoes
- The Dr. Henry D. Janowitz Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael H Buckstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laurie A Keefer
- The Dr. Henry D. Janowitz Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joshua D Safer
- Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Keith Sigel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karyn A Goodman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - B R Simon Rosser
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health at University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Stephen E Goldstone
- Department of Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Serre-Yu Wong
- The Dr. Henry D. Janowitz Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Deborah C Marshall
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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2
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Nguyen MX, Li C, Muessig K, Gaynes BN, Go VF. A Systematic Review of Interventions for Young Men Who Have Sex With Men and Young Transgender Women Living with HIV. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1485-1511. [PMID: 37768429 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04166-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) and young transgender women (YTGW) have unique challenges to HIV care. We conducted a systematic review to summarize behavioral and structural interventions exclusively targeting YMSM and YTGW living with HIV. We screened 6546 records published through August 19th, 2022 from six databases. For eligibility, studies needed to involve structural or behavioral interventions exclusively targeting YMSM and/or YTGW living with HIV or presenting disaggregated data in this group. Quality assessment was performed using the ICROMS checklist. Twenty studies from 18 interventions were included in the review. There was considerable heterogeneity in intervention characteristics, including population, location, content and format of the interventions and targeted outcomes. Half of the interventions were described as pilot studies, and all but one study was conducted in the United States. The most common outcomes included the HIV care continuum, followed by HIV knowledge and self-efficacy, HIV-risk behaviors and mental health. The evidence base remained sparse, and the results on effectiveness were inconsistent, with some interventions reporting improved outcomes among participants after receiving treatment and others not reporting any meaningful changes. Although there has been some progress in the development of interventions targeting this group, we highlighted several directions for future research. Interventions expanding to low-resource settings, addressing structural barriers, and targeting different aspects of health among participants are warranted. Rigorous studies with larger sample sizes that follow participants over longer periods are necessary to increase the strength of the evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh X Nguyen
- Department of Epidemiology, Hanoi Medical University, Room 411, Building A7, 1 Ton That Tung, Dong Da, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Chunyan Li
- Tokyo College, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kate Muessig
- College of Nursing, Florida States University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Bradley N Gaynes
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Dearolf MH, D’Angelo AB, Grov C. 'You have to trust their word': transmasculine experiences with sex partners and safety during the early COVID-19 outbreak. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024; 26:77-92. [PMID: 36929822 PMCID: PMC10505243 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2023.2187093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The early months of the SARS-CoV2 pandemic exacerbated health disparities for vulnerable populations, including transgender (trans) communities, creating unique challenges for navigating sex and dating. This paper aims to expand upon the current literature regarding transmasculine populations by capturing their lived experiences during this critical time. We interviewed 20 assigned female sex at birth (AFAB) adults of the transmasculine spectrum - men, nonbinary, and transmasculine individuals - about their social and sexual experiences in the USA in May and June 2020. Transcripts were analysed using an inductive thematic approach. We found that sex drive decreased and uncertainty about health risks increased. Some participants found alternate ways to date and hook-up that reduced their COVID-19 risk, such as engaging in online sex (e.g. sexting, dating apps). Others expressed discomfort using virtual platforms for both personal/work and sexual lives, along with nuanced feelings around being objectified, compared to pornography, and fetishised as trans bodies. COVID-related shutdowns of queer spaces also amplified pre-existing concerns about interpersonal safety and rejection. When seeking new partners, participants sought behavioural characteristics that instilled trust. Future public health communications can take advantage of safety and sexual health strategies already present in trans communities to bolster wellbeing in trans lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle H. Dearolf
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, USA
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexis B. D’Angelo
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, USA
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, USA
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
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Agénor M, Lett E, Ramanayake N, Zubizarreta D, Murchison GR, Eiduson R, Gordon AR. Racial/Ethnic Differences in Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Among Transgender Men and Nonbinary Assigned Female at Birth Young Adults in the United States: a National Study. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023; 10:2900-2910. [PMID: 36469284 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01467-4] [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: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause a major burden of disease in the United States (US)-especially among structurally marginalized populations, including transgender and nonbinary people, individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB), Black and Latinx/e individuals, and young adults. Although screening can help detect and prevent STIs, research on STI testing among populations at diverse intersections of multiple forms of structural marginalization, including Black, Latinx/e, and other racially/ethnically minoritized transgender men and nonbinary AFAB US young adults, is extremely scarce. METHODS We conducted a national cross-sectional online survey of transgender and nonbinary US young adults from February to July 2019. Using Poisson regression, we estimated prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the associations between race/ethnicity-which we conceptualized as a system of structural inequality that shapes individuals' and groups' exposure to racism-and lifetime and past-year STI testing among transgender men and nonbinary AFAB US young adults aged 18-30 years with at least one-lifetime sexual partner (N = 378). RESULTS Approximately 74% of participants had received an STI test in their lifetime, and, among those, 72% with a past-year sexual partner had been tested for an STI in the last 12 months. We observed no statistically significant association between race/ethnicity and lifetime STI testing among transgender and nonbinary AFAB young adults with a lifetime sexual partner. In contrast, Black (PR = 1.32; 95%: 1.03, 1.68) and Latinx/e (PR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.75) transgender men and nonbinary AFAB young adults who ever received an STI test and had a past-year sexual partner were significantly more likely to have received an STI test in the last 12 months relative to their White counterparts, adjusting for demographic factors. Further adjustment for lifetime STI diagnosis and health insurance status did not appreciably attenuate these observed adjusted differences; however, the adjusted difference in the prevalence of past-year STI testing between Black (but not Latinx/e) and White transgender men and nonbinary AFAB young adults was no longer statistically significant upon further adjustment for educational attainment and employment status, possibly due to small sample sizes. CONCLUSION The higher adjusted prevalence of past-year STI testing among Black and Latinx/e compared to White transgender men and nonbinary AFAB US young adults may reflect racist and xenophobic sexual stereotypes about Black and Latinx/e people among health care providers and institutions, the history of hyper-surveillance of Black and Latinx/e people by public health institutions in the context of infectious disease containment, and/or agency and resistance among Black and Latinx/e transgender men and nonbinary AFAB young adults with regard to sexual health promotion in the face of multiple compounding systems of oppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madina Agénor
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Box G-S121-8, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Elle Lett
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Applied Transgender Studies, Chicago, IL, USA
- Computational Health Informatics Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Dougie Zubizarreta
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gabriel R Murchison
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rose Eiduson
- Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Allegra R Gordon
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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5
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Rivest P. La santé sexuelle des hommes trans : entre problèmes de catégorisation et invisibilisation. SANTE PUBLIQUE (VANDOEUVRE-LES-NANCY, FRANCE) 2023; 34:37-48. [PMID: 37336746 DOI: 10.3917/spub.hs2.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual minorities have been disproportionally impacted by the HIV-Aids epidemic. Their high prevalence motivated sexual health research that first focused on gay men, then trans women. Trans men have been considered at very low risk of exposition, Hence the scarce number of research about them. However, an emerging literature is showing diversified and surprising results regarding the reasons for their initial exclusion. PURPOSE OF RESEARCH This article seeks to establish the state of knowledge on trans men's sexual health through a French and international literature review. RESULTS Trans men have a variety of partners, sexual and non-sexual practices (IDU) that leads to categorize them at high risk of HIV exposure. The proportion of trans men who are HIV positive still is difficult to assess. It is estimated to be high in the USA, and close to zero in France. Low screening rates, difficulties accessing health care, and identification problems in the very classification of people suggest that they might be more of them. Trans men also report discriminations in access to health care services, and specific health vulnerabilities. Gynecology and reproductive health are rarely even mentioned. CONCLUSIONS Rethinking the categories used in research would produce a more accurate representation of the varied realities of trans people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Rivest
- Institut d’ethnologie méditerranéenne, européenne et comparative (Idemec) – Aix-Marseille Université – Aix-en-Provence – France
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Stewart M, Ryu H, Blaque E, Hassan A, Anand P, Gómez-Ramirez O, MacKinnon KR, Worthington C, Gilbert M, Grace D. Cisnormativity as a structural barrier to STI testing for trans masculine, two-spirit, and non-binary people who are gay, bisexual, or have sex with men. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277315. [PMID: 36441729 PMCID: PMC9704602 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Trans masculine, two-spirit, and non-binary people who are gay, bisexual or otherwise have sex with men (TGBM) are under-tested for sexually transmitted infections (STI) and may face complex, intersectional barriers that prevent them from accessing STI testing. As part of a study on gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men's (GBM) experiences of current STI testing systems in Ontario, Canada, this paper reports on the findings from TGBM participants' experiences with in-person STI testing in a range of venues (i.e. Family doctors, walk-in clinics, and community-based organizations) to explore testing barriers specific to TGBM. Using a community-based research approach, between June 2020 and December 2021 peer researchers who identified as GBM conducted focus groups and interviews with 38 cis and trans GBM, 13 of whom identified as TGBM. Data were analyzed following grounded theory. When questioned about past experiences with testing, TGBM participants reported several barriers to STI testing within current testing models in Ontario due to cisnormativity and heteronormativity. Cisnormativity is the assumption that everyone identifies as the gender they were assigned at birth, and those who do not are considered "abnormal", while heteronormativity is when it is assumed that everyone is heterosexual. From our research we identified three overarching themes concerning testing barriers among TGBM participants: (1) non-inclusive clinic environments, (2) lack of provider knowledge and competency, and (3) legal documentation. Inherent cis and heteronormativity in healthcare institutions appear to be factors shaping the historical under-testing for STI in the TGBM population. These findings suggest the relevance of implementing trans-specific clinical practices that reduce the stigma and barriers faced by TGBM in STI testing contexts, including: hosting all-gender testing hours, opening more LGBTQ+ clinics, offering training in transgender health to testing providers, and conducting a review of how gender markers on health documents can be more inclusive of trans, two-spirit, and non-binary communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie Stewart
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heeho Ryu
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ezra Blaque
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Abdi Hassan
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Praney Anand
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Oralia Gómez-Ramirez
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Catherine Worthington
- School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mark Gilbert
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daniel Grace
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Appenroth MN, Koppe U, Hickson F, Schink S, Hahne A, Schmidt AJ, Weatherburn P, Marcus U. Sexual happiness and satisfaction with sexual safety among German trans men who have sex with men: results from EMIS-2017. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25 Suppl 5:e25992. [PMID: 36225154 PMCID: PMC9557017 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The population of men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) includes people who are on the masculine spectrum but were assigned female at birth (AFAB), that is trans MSM. This study aims to identify current circumstances regarding sexual happiness and safety among German trans MSM. To date, there is no health information about trans MSM in Germany, limiting the ability of MSM sexual health programmes to meet their needs. METHODS Data were used from the European MSM Internet Survey (EMIS-2017), where people identifying as men and/or trans men were recruited through dating apps for MSM, community websites and social media to participate in an online survey. We analysed parameters on sexual happiness and satisfaction with sexual safety among Germany-based trans MSM and compared those to outcomes of MSM assigned male at birth (cis MSM) living in Germany using descriptive methods and logistic regression models adjusting for age. RESULTS In total, 23,001 participants from Germany were included, of which 122 (0.5%) indicated to be AFAB (i.e. trans MSM). Trans MSM were markedly younger than cis participants (median age: 28.5 vs. 39 years). Trans MSM more often reported being unhappy with their current sex life (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.82, 95% CI 1.24-2.67), had higher odds of disagreeing with the statements "the sex I have is always as safe as I want" ([aOR] = 1.82, 95% CI 1.24-2.67) and "I find it easy to say no to sex that I don't want" ([aOR] = 1.80, 95% CI 1.18-2.77). Trans MSM were more likely to not be living comfortably financially ([aOR] = 2.43, 95% CI 1.60-3.67) and to be living with severe anxiety and/or depression ([aOR] = 3.90, 95% CI 2.22-6.83). Trans MSM were less likely to have ever tested for HIV ([aOR] = 0.63, 95% CI 0.43-0.93). CONCLUSIONS Sexual happiness, control of sexual boundaries, satisfaction with sexual safety, financial security, mental wellbeing and HIV testing were all lower in German trans MSM compared with cis MSM. Tailored sexual health interventions, contextualized with regard to needs and vulnerabilities, could address this inequality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Nicolai Appenroth
- Department of Infectious Disease EpidemiologyRobert Koch‐InstituteBerlinGermany,Institute of Public HealthCharité Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Uwe Koppe
- Department of Infectious Disease EpidemiologyRobert Koch‐InstituteBerlinGermany
| | - Ford Hickson
- Department of Public HealthEnvironments & SocietyFaculty of Public Health & PolicyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Susanne Schink
- Department of Infectious Disease EpidemiologyRobert Koch‐InstituteBerlinGermany
| | | | - Axel J. Schmidt
- Department of Public HealthEnvironments & SocietyFaculty of Public Health & PolicyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Peter Weatherburn
- Department of Public HealthEnvironments & SocietyFaculty of Public Health & PolicyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Ulrich Marcus
- Department of Infectious Disease EpidemiologyRobert Koch‐InstituteBerlinGermany
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Liboro RM, Fehr C, Da Silva G. Kinky Sex and Deliberate Partner Negotiations: Case Studies of Canadian Transgender Men Who Have Sex with Men, Their HIV Risks, Safer Sex Practices, and Prevention Needs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11382. [PMID: 36141655 PMCID: PMC9517264 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Growing research in the last two decades has begun to investigate the HIV risks and sexual health practices of transgender men, especially as a subpopulation of men who have sex with men (MSM) that likely shares certain HIV risks and sexual health practices with cisgender MSM, the sociodemographic group that continues to be at highest risk for HIV in many developed countries since the start of the epidemic. As part of our Community-Based Participatory Research project and larger strengths-based qualitative study that was dedicated to examine multiple factors that promote resilience to HIV utilizing the perspectives and lived experiences of middle-aged and older MSM, the case studies we present in this article feature the distinct insights and experiences of three HIV-negative transgender MSM from Downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada, who participated in our one-on-one interviews. The three case studies provide not only an enlightening snapshot of some of the specific contexts, HIV risks, safer sex practices, and HIV prevention needs of transgender MSM, but also a unique opportunity to critically reflect on the potential implications of the insights and experiences that were shared by our participants, particularly for adapting and developing current and future HIV services and programs to maximally benefit transgender MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato M. Liboro
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - Charles Fehr
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - George Da Silva
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
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9
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Hughto JMW, Fernández Y, Restar A, Klasko-Foster LB, Deutsch MB, Peitzmeier S, Potter J, Mimiaga MJ, Reisner SL. High Awareness but Low Uptake of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis in a Community Sample of Trans Masculine Adults in Massachusetts. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:249-253. [PMID: 35727649 PMCID: PMC9464045 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn M W Hughto
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yohansa Fernández
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Arjee Restar
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Lynne B Klasko-Foster
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Madeline B Deutsch
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,UCSF Center of Excellence for Transgender Health, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sarah Peitzmeier
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jennifer Potter
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Internal Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew J Mimiaga
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sari L Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Factors associated with transmasculine adults recently engaging in sexual behavior with partners of unknown STI and HIV status. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3139-3145. [PMID: 35362909 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03651-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The sexual partnerships of transmasculine (TM) adults-those assigned female at birth who identify as transgender men or a masculine spectrum gender identity-and characteristics associated with STI/HIV risk behavior remains understudied. Participants in the current study were TM adults (n = 141) receiving care at a community health center in Boston, Massachusetts between March 2015 and September 2016. Using generalized estimating equations, we examined individual- and partnership-level factors associated with TM adults' odds of engaging in sexual behavior with a sexual partner of unknown STI/HIV status in the past 12 months. TM adults with casual sexual partnerships (vs. monogamous partnerships) and those in partnerships with cisgender men, other TM individuals, or transfeminine partners (vs. cisgender women) had statistically significantly higher odds of engaging in sexual behavior with a partner of unknown STI/HIV status in the past 12 months. Findings may inform future efforts to improve sexual health communication and STI/HIV disclosure between TM adults and their sexual partners.
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11
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Crissman HP, Haley C, Stroumsa D, Tilea A, Moravek MB, Harris LH, Dalton VK. Leveraging Administrative Claims to Understand Disparities in Gender Minority Health: Contraceptive Use Patterns Among Transgender and Nonbinary People. LGBT Health 2022; 9:186-193. [PMID: 35297673 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Transgender people face disparities in access to reproductive and sexual health services; however, differences in receipt of contraceptive services have not been quantified. We compare contraceptive patterns between cisgender women and trans masculine people in insurance claims databases. Methods: We analyzed 2014-2018 Truven MarketScan data, using diagnostic and procedural codes to identify sex assigned at birth, and existing coding methodology to identify transgender and nonbinary people. We compared contraceptive patterns between cisgender women and trans masculine people aged 15-49 in Medicaid and commercial databases. Results: We identified 4700 people in the commercial and 1628 people in the Medicaid databases as trans masculine. Trans masculine people were prescribed fewer oral contraceptive pills (Medicaid: 17.44%, commercial: 16.62%) compared to cisgender women (Medicaid: 24.96%, commercial: 27.85%), less long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) use (Medicaid: 7.62%, commercial: 7.49% vs. Medicaid: 12.79%, commercial: 8.51%), had more hysterectomies (Medicaid: 5.77%, commercial: 8.45% vs. Medicaid: 2.15%, commercial: 2.48%), and less evidence of any contraception (Medicaid: 34.21%, commercial: 32.28% vs. Medicaid: 46.80%, commercial: 39.81%). Hysterectomies and LARC use varied by insurance type. Conclusion: We found significant differences in contraceptive patterns between trans masculine people and cisgender women. Data suggest potential differences in hysterectomy occurrences by trans masculine people, and long-acting reversible contraceptive use by cisgender women, in Medicaid versus commercial insurance cohorts. Appropriate counseling, insurance coverage, and removal of structural barriers are needed to ensure adequate access to contraception methods for people of all genders-regardless of whether they are being employed for contraception, menstrual management, or gender affirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halley P Crissman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Program on Women's Health Care Effectiveness Research, Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Caleb Haley
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Daphna Stroumsa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Program on Women's Health Care Effectiveness Research, Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anca Tilea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Program on Women's Health Care Effectiveness Research, Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Molly B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lisa H Harris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Vanessa K Dalton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Program on Women's Health Care Effectiveness Research, Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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12
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Rodriguez-Wallberg K, Obedin-Maliver J, Taylor B, Van Mello N, Tilleman K, Nahata L. Reproductive health in transgender and gender diverse individuals: A narrative review to guide clinical care and international guidelines. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 24:7-25. [PMID: 36713139 PMCID: PMC9879176 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2035883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Background Hormonal treatments and surgical interventions practiced with the aim to affirm gender identity in transgender and gender diverse patients may impact their future reproductive ability, family building, and family planning options. Whereas it is recommended by international guidelines to discuss the potential risks of infertility and to present fertility preservation (FP) options to transgender individuals and their families prior to initiating any of these treatments, many barriers still remain. Further, transgender and gender diverse individuals often experience barriers to accessing contraception, abortion, pre-conception care, and comprehensive perinatal care. Aims In this review we summarize the current literature on reproductive healthcare issues reported in transgender people including fertility issues, fertility preservation (FP), contraception, pregnancy and lactation and perinatal health. Methods A narrative literature search of major databases (Pubmed, Medline, PsycInfo, Google Scholar, Web of Science) was conducted. Given the paucity and heterogeneity of studies, summative review tactics were not available. The literature was critically reviewed by international experts in the field with focus on the impact of gender-affirming medical interventions on future fertility, current FP options and reproductive health issues in transgender people. Results The current literature supports that transgender and gender diverse individuals may wish to have genetically related children in the future, rendering the issue of FP relevant to this patient group. The cryopreservation of mature gametes is an efficacious option for FP for post-pubertal adolescents and adults. It is recommended to discuss these options at time of planning for gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) or engaging with other gender-affirming procedures that can limit future fertility. Discontinuation of GAHT may allow individuals to undergo FP later, but data are limited and there is the concern of symptoms and consequences of stopping GAHT. For pre-pubertal and early pubertal children, FP options are limited to the cryopreservation of gonadal tissue. At present the tissue can become functional only after re-transplantation, which might be undesirable by transgender individuals in the future. Preconception counseling, prenatal surveillance, perinatal support, contraceptive, and pregnancy termination related healthcare need to be meaningfully adapted for this patient population, and many knowledge gaps remain. Discussion Specialized FP reproductive healthcare for transgender and gender diverse individuals is in early evolution. Research should be conducted to examine effects of medical interventions on fertility, timing of FP, gamete preservation and outcome of the fertility treatments. Strategies to inform and educate transgender and gender diverse patients can lead to optimization of reproductive care and counseling and decision making of FP for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pahology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, NKS, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Juno Obedin-Maliver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bernard Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Norah Van Mello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kelly Tilleman
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Leena Nahata
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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13
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Sevelius JM, Glidden DV, Deutsch M, Welborn L, Contreras A, Salinas A, Venegas L, Grant RM. Uptake, Retention, and Adherence to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in TRIUMPH: A Peer-Led PrEP Demonstration Project for Transgender Communities in Oakland and Sacramento, California. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 88:S27-S38. [PMID: 34757990 PMCID: PMC8579996 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND TRIUMPH (Trans Research-Informed communities United in Mobilization for the Prevention of HIV) was a community-led, transgender-specific pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration project at 2 community-based clinical sites in California. TRIUMPH used peer health education, community mobilization, and clinical integration of PrEP with hormone therapy to promote PrEP knowledge and acceptability. The goal of this study was to evaluate PrEP uptake, retention, and adherence among TRIUMPH participants and examine site-based differences. METHODS Eligible participants were adult transgender and gender diverse people interested in PrEP. Participants were seen at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months for PrEP provision, clinical visits, and HIV testing. PrEP uptake was defined as dispensation of PrEP, PrEP retention was defined as proportion of expected visits completed among those who initiated PrEP, and PrEP adherence was assessed by measuring tenofovir diphosphate concentrations in dried blood spots. Logistic regression models quantified the association of variables with PrEP outcomes. RESULTS TRIUMPH enrolled 185 participants; the median age was 28 years (interquartile range: 23-35), 7% was Black, and 58% was Latinx. PrEP uptake was as follows: 78% in Oakland and 98% in Sacramento; 91% among trans women, 96% among trans men, and 70% among nonbinary participants. Almost half (47%) rarely/never believed about HIV, and 42% reported condomless sex act in the past 3 months. Participants who reported higher numbers of sex partners were more likely to be retained and adherent; other predictors of adherence included not having a primary partner and not experiencing violence in the past 3 months. CONCLUSIONS This community-led, trans-specific PrEP demonstration project documents high levels of PrEP initiation in a young transgender and gender diverse cohort at risk of HIV acquisition.
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14
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Stutterheim SE, van Dijk M, Wang H, Jonas KJ. The worldwide burden of HIV in transgender individuals: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260063. [PMID: 34851961 PMCID: PMC8635361 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Transgender individuals are at risk for HIV. HIV risks are dynamic and there have been substantial changes in HIV prevention (e.g., pre-exposure prophylaxis [PrEP]). It is thus time to revisit HIV prevalence and burden among transgender individuals. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was thus to examine worldwide prevalence and burden of HIV over the course of the epidemic among trans feminine and trans masculine individuals. Methods We conducted an updated systematic review by searching PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, for studies of any research design published in in a peer-reviewed journal in any language that reported HIV prevalence among transgender individuals published between January 2000 and January 2019. Two independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed methodological quality. We then conducted a meta-analysis, using random-effects modelling, to ascertain standardized prevalence and the relative burden of HIV carried by transgender individuals by country and year of data collection, and then by geographic region. We additionally explored the impact of sampling methods and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Results Based on 98 studies, overall standardized HIV prevalence over the course of the epidemic, based on weights from each country by year, was 19.9% (95% CI 14.7% - 25.1%) for trans feminine individuals (n = 48,604) and 2.56% (95% CI 0.0% - 5.9%) for trans masculine individuals (n = 6460). Overall OR for HIV infection, compared with individuals over age 15, was 66.0 (95% CI 51.4–84.8) for trans feminine individuals and 6.8 (95% CI 3.6–13.1) for trans masculine individuals. Prevalence varied by geographic region (13.5% - 29.9%) and sampling method (5.4% - 37.8%). Lastly, PrEP effects on prevalence could not be established. Conclusion Trans feminine and trans masculine individuals are disproportionately burdened by HIV. Their unique prevention and care needs should be comprehensively addressed. Future research should further investigate the impact of sampling methods on HIV prevalence, and monitor the potential impact of PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E. Stutterheim
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Mart van Dijk
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Haoyi Wang
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kai J. Jonas
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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15
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Lunde CE, Spigel R, Gordon CM, Sieberg CB. Beyond the Binary: Sexual and Reproductive Health Considerations for Transgender and Gender Expansive Adolescents. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:670919. [PMID: 36304055 PMCID: PMC9580725 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.670919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Awareness and visibility of transgender individuals have grown exponentially. However, conceptualizing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) as “women's” or “men's” health services further marginalizes transgender and gender-expansive (TGE) youth. Multiple reviews and commentaries have been published on the topic of SRH care for adults under the umbrella term of sexual and gender minorities, all with a call to action for more inclusive care and the need for more clinical research involving TGE individuals, and notably, TGE youth. Results from adult TGE studies are often translated to describe adolescent models. However, models specific to adolescent TGE populations are needed to understand their unique SRH needs. This review will describe the current literature relating to SRH needs of TGE youth and adults, highlighting key areas with significant disparities in need of further research. This comprehensive summary will also provide recommendations for clinicians and researchers with the goal of improving SRH care and obtaining wider representation in both clinical settings and research directed toward TGE youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire E. Lunde
- Biobehavioral Pediatric Pain Lab, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Pain & Affective Neuroscience Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Spigel
- Division of Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Catherine M. Gordon
- Division of Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Christine B. Sieberg
- Biobehavioral Pediatric Pain Lab, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Pain & Affective Neuroscience Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Christine B. Sieberg
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16
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Workowski KA, Bachmann LH, Chan PA, Johnston CM, Muzny CA, Park I, Reno H, Zenilman JM, Bolan GA. Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021. MMWR Recomm Rep 2021; 70:1-187. [PMID: 34292926 PMCID: PMC8344968 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.rr7004a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 793] [Impact Index Per Article: 264.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
These guidelines for the treatment of persons who have or are at risk for
sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were updated by CDC after consultation
with professionals knowledgeable in the field of STIs who met in Atlanta,
Georgia, June 11–14, 2019. The information in this report updates the
2015 guidelines. These guidelines discuss 1) updated recommendations for
treatment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis,
and Trichomonas vaginalis; 2) addition of
metronidazole to the recommended treatment regimen for pelvic inflammatory
disease; 3) alternative treatment options for bacterial vaginosis; 4) management
of Mycoplasma genitalium; 5) human papillomavirus vaccine
recommendations and counseling messages; 6) expanded risk factors for syphilis
testing among pregnant women; 7) one-time testing for hepatitis C infection; 8)
evaluation of men who have sex with men after sexual assault; and 9) two-step
testing for serologic diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus. Physicians and
other health care providers can use these guidelines to assist in prevention and
treatment of STIs.
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17
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Mayer KH, Nelson L, Hightow-Weidman L, Mimiaga MJ, Mena L, Reisner S, Daskalakis D, Safren SA, Beyrer C, Sullivan PS. The persistent and evolving HIV epidemic in American men who have sex with men. Lancet 2021; 397:1116-1126. [PMID: 33617771 PMCID: PMC9639667 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00321-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in the USA were the first population to be identified with AIDS and continue to be at very high risk of HIV acquisition. We did a systematic literature search to identify the factors that explain the reasons for the ongoing epidemic in this population, using a social-ecological perspective. Common features of the HIV epidemic in American MSM include role versatility and biological, individual, and social and structural factors. The high-prevalence networks of some racial and ethnic minority men are further concentrated because of assortative mixing, adverse life experiences (including high rates of incarceration), and avoidant behaviour because of negative interactions with the health-care system. Young MSM have additional risks for HIV because their impulse control is less developed and they are less familiar with serostatus and other risk mitigation discussions. They might benefit from prevention efforts that use digital technologies, which they often use to meet partners and obtain health-related information. Older MSM remain at risk of HIV and are the largest population of US residents with chronic HIV, requiring culturally responsive programmes that address longer-term comorbidities. Transgender MSM are an understudied population, but emerging data suggest that some are at great risk of HIV and require specifically tailored information on HIV prevention. In the current era of pre-exposure prophylaxis and the undetectable equals untransmittable campaign, training of health-care providers to create culturally competent programmes for all MSM is crucial, since the use of antiretrovirals is foundational to optimising HIV care and prevention. Effective control of the HIV epidemic among all American MSM will require scaling up programmes that address their common vulnerabilities, but are sufficiently nuanced to address the specific sociocultural, structural, and behavioural issues of diverse subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth H Mayer
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - LaRon Nelson
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Matthew J Mimiaga
- Fielding School of Public Health and David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Leandro Mena
- Medical Center, University of Mississippi, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Sari Reisner
- Boston Children's Hospital, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Chris Beyrer
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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18
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Reisner SL, Deutsch MB, Mayer KH, Potter J, Gonzalez A, Keuroghlian AS, Hughto JM, Campbell J, Asquith A, Pardee DJ, Pletta DR, Radix A. Longitudinal Cohort Study of Gender Affirmation and HIV-Related Health in Transgender and Gender Diverse Adults: The LEGACY Project Protocol. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e24198. [PMID: 33646126 PMCID: PMC7961399 DOI: 10.2196/24198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adults in the United States experience health disparities, especially in HIV infection. Medical gender affirmation (eg, hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries) is known to be medically necessary and to improve some health conditions. To our knowledge, however, no studies have assessed the effects of gender-affirming medical care on HIV-related outcomes. Objective This study aims to evaluate the effects of medical gender affirmation on HIV-related outcomes among TGD primary care patients. Secondary objectives include characterizing mental health, quality of life, and unmet medical gender affirmation needs. Methods LEGACY is a longitudinal, multisite, clinic-based cohort of adult TGD primary care patients from two federally qualified community health centers in the United States: Fenway Health in Boston, and Callen-Lorde Community Health Center in New York. Eligible adult TGD patients contribute electronic health record data to the LEGACY research data warehouse (RDW). Patients are also offered the option to participate in patient-reported surveys for 1 year of follow-up (baseline, 6-month, and 12-month assessments) with optional HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. Biobehavioral data from the RDW, surveys, and biospecimen collection are linked. HIV-related clinical outcomes include pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake (patients without HIV), viral suppression (patients with HIV), and anogenital STI diagnoses (all patients). Medical gender affirmation includes hormones, surgeries, and nonhormonal and nonsurgical interventions (eg, voice therapy). Results The contract began in April 2018. The cohort design was informed by focus groups with TGD patients (n=28) conducted between August-October 2018 and in collaboration with a community advisory board, scientific advisory board, and site-specific research support coalitions. Prospective cohort enrollment began in February 2019, with enrollment expected to continue through August 2020. As of April 2020, 7821 patients are enrolled in the LEGACY RDW and 1756 have completed a baseline survey. Participants have a median age of 29 years (IQR 11; range 18-82). More than one-third (39.7%) are racial or ethnic minorities (1070/7821, 13.68% Black; 475/7821, 6.07% multiracial; 439/7821, 5.61% Asian or Pacific Islander; 1120/7821, 14.32% other or missing) and 14.73% (1152/7821) are Hispanic or Latinx. By gender identity, participants identify as 33.79% (2643/7821) male, 37.07% (2900/7821) female, 21.74% (1700/7821) nonbinary, and 7.39% (578/7821) are unsure or have missing data. Approximately half (52.0%) of the cohort was assigned female sex at birth, and 5.4% (421/7821) are living with HIV infection. Conclusions LEGACY is an unprecedented opportunity to evaluate the impact of medical gender affirmation on HIV-related health. The study uses a comprehensive research methodology linking TGD patient biobehavioral longitudinal data from multiple sources. Patient-centeredness and scientific rigor are assured through the ongoing engagement of TGD communities, clinicians, scientists, and site clinical staff undergirded by epidemiological methodology. Findings will inform evidence-based clinical care for TGD patients, including optimal interventions to improve HIV-related outcomes. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/24198
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari L Reisner
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Madeline B Deutsch
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States.,The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, United States.,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jennifer Potter
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, United States.,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Alex Gonzalez
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, United States.,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Alex S Keuroghlian
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, United States.,Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jaclyn Mw Hughto
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States.,Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Asa Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, United States
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19
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Health and well-being of trans and non-binary participants in a community-based survey of gay, bisexual, and queer men, and non-binary and Two-Spirit people across Canada. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246525. [PMID: 33571252 PMCID: PMC7877578 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a paucity of population health data on the experiences of transgender, non-binary, and other gender minority gay, bisexual, and queer men, and Two-Spirit people in Canada. To address this gap, this article presents a socio-demographic and health profile of trans and non-binary participants from the community-based bilingual 2018 Sex Now Survey. Participants were recruited in-person from Pride festivals in 15 communities to self-complete an anonymous paper-and-pen questionnaire. To be eligible, participants needed to be at least 15 years old, live in Canada, either report a non-heterosexual sexual identity or report sex with a man in the past 5 years, and not report gender identity as a woman. Through community consultations the survey was inclusive of trans men, non-binary people, and Two-Spirit people. Three gender groups (cisgender, transgender, and non-binary) were created, and trans and non-binary participants were compared with their cisgender peers across a variety of demographic, mental health, sexual health, and general health indicators. Odds ratios were calculated to determine initial significance for categorical variables, and adjusted odds ratios were calculated to control for five possible confounders (age, ethnoracial identity, country of birth, sexual identity, and financial strain). Significant differences emerged across all sets of indicators, with many of these findings remaining significant after adjusting for confounding variables, including significantly higher reported rates of mental health challenges and sexual health service barriers for trans and non-binary participants compared to the cisgender group. Trans and non-binary participants were also more likely to be in polyamorous relationships. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that trans and non-binary people experience significant disadvantages compared with cisgender sexual minority men. Improved educational supports and employment protections, access to queer and gender affirming healthcare, and trauma-informed mental health services are needed to improve the health wellbeing of trans and non-binary people in Canada.
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20
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Reisner SL, Moore CS, Asquith A, Pardee DJ, Mayer KH. The Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Cascade in At-Risk Transgender Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States. LGBT Health 2021; 8:116-124. [PMID: 33567245 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2020.0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This analysis was designed to characterize the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) cascade in a U.S. national sample of transgender men and trans masculine adults who have sex with cisgender men (trans MSM) at-risk for HIV acquisition. Methods: From November to December 2017, 843 HIV-negative trans MSM self-reporting past-6-month receptive sex with a cisgender man were recruited via peer referrals, dating apps, listservs, and social media. A computer-assisted self-interview assessed demographics, health care, and the PrEP cascade. Descriptive statistics and multivariable regression models evaluated factors associated with PrEP uptake and persistence. Results: Mean age was 28.1 years (standard deviation = 7.1); 4.8% were Black, 21.7% Latinx, and 25.6% another race/ethnicity. A total of 84.1% had heard of PrEP, with 67.3% reporting interest. More than half (55.2%) were PrEP indicated, of which 50.8% were PrEP naive. Approximately 1/4 (28.0%) reported PrEP use, of which 65.3% were PrEP persistent. PrEP modality preferences were injectable (51.2%), daily oral pill (22.1%), and anal gel/lube (14.6%). Reasons for PrEP noninterest were no HIV risk (68.5%), cost (24.2%), and side effects (20.1%). Surgical gender affirmation, no health care discrimination, and social media as a primary health information source were associated with increased odds of PrEP uptake and persistence (all p < 0.05). PrEP adherence difficulties were reported by 52.6%, due to busy/inconsistent schedule (53.1%), side effects (27.4%), and too many medical visits (11.6%). Conclusion: PrEP uptake was modest among the trans MSM sampled, given prevalent HIV risk behaviors. The limited PrEP uptake in at-risk trans MSM suggests the need to develop culturally tailored community education and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari L Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Chiara S Moore
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew Asquith
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dana J Pardee
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Watson CWM, Pasipanodya E, Savin MJ, Ellorin EE, Corado KC, Flynn RP, Opalo C, Lampley E, Henry BL, Blumenthal J, Bolan R, Morris S, Moore DJ. Barriers and Facilitators to PrEP Initiation and Adherence Among Transgender and Gender Non-Binary Individuals in Southern California. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2020; 32:472-485. [PMID: 33779208 PMCID: PMC10953836 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2020.32.6.472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
While transgender and gender non-binary (trans/nb) individuals are disproportionately affected by HIV, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake remains low in this underserved population. We conducted four focus groups with 37 trans/nb individuals in San Diego and Los Angeles to assess barriers and facilitators of PrEP usage. Transcripts were coded for qualitative themes. Although overall PrEP awareness was high, participants reported limited knowledge and misinformation about PrEP. Barriers to PrEP use included: structural access (e.g., discrimination from health care providers, lack of trans-inclusive services, financial barriers), mental health struggles limiting ability to access PrEP, and concerns about potential side effects, drug-drug interactions with hormone therapy, and lack of other STI protection. Facilitators of PrEP usage included: increased PrEP availability, prior experience taking daily medications, and motivation to have active and healthy lives without fear of contracting HIV. Addressing both structural and psychosocial/behavioral factors in trans-affirming health care environments is crucial to designing inclusive, effective PrEP interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Wei-Ming Watson
- University of California, San Diego
- San Diego State University/University of California San Diego
| | - Elizabeth Pasipanodya
- University of California, San Diego
- Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, Fruitdale, California
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22
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Hickson F, Appenroth M, Koppe U, Schmidt AJ, Reid D, Weatherburn P. Sexual and Mental Health Inequalities across Gender Identity and Sex-Assigned-at-Birth among Men-Who-Have-Sex-with-Men in Europe: Findings from EMIS-2017. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17207379. [PMID: 33050370 PMCID: PMC7601462 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17207379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Some men who have sex with men (MSM) were assigned female at birth (AFB) and/or identify as trans men. Little is known about how these men differ from other MSM. We compared sexual and mental health indicators from the European MSM Internet Survey (EMIS-2017), comparing men AFB and/or currently identifying as trans men with those assigned male at birth (AMB) who identified as men. EMIS-2017 was an opportunistic 33-language online sexual health survey for MSM recruiting throughout Europe. We used regression models adjusting for age, country of residence and employment status to examine differences across groups. An analytic sample of 125,720 men living in 45 countries was used, of which 674 (0.5%) were AFB and 871 (0.7%) identified as trans men. The two sub-groups were not coterminous, forming three minority groups: AFB men, AFB trans men and AMB trans men. Minority groups were younger and more likely unemployed. Anxiety, depression, alcohol dependence and sexual unhappiness were more prevalent in sex/gender minority men. Conversely HIV and STI diagnoses were less common. AMB trans men were most likely to have sexual risk behavior with steady partners and to have unmet health promotion needs, and were least likely to be reached by interventions. Sex assigned at birth and trans identification were associated with different sexual and mental health needs. To facilitate service planning and to foster inclusion, sex-assigned-at-birth and current gender identity should be routinely collected in health surveys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ford Hickson
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK; (A.J.S.); (D.R.); (P.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-0207-927-2791
| | - Max Appenroth
- Institute of Public Health, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Uwe Koppe
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Axel J. Schmidt
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK; (A.J.S.); (D.R.); (P.W.)
| | - David Reid
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK; (A.J.S.); (D.R.); (P.W.)
| | - Peter Weatherburn
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK; (A.J.S.); (D.R.); (P.W.)
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23
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Baker KE, Harris AC. Terminology Should Accurately Reflect Complexities of Sexual Orientation and Identity. Am J Public Health 2020; 110:1668-1669. [PMID: 33026848 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2020.305924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kellan E Baker
- Kellan E. Baker is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD. Angelique C. Harris is with Boston University Medical Campus and the Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Angelique C Harris
- Kellan E. Baker is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD. Angelique C. Harris is with Boston University Medical Campus and the Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
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24
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Ferlatte O, Panwala V, Rich AJ, Scheim AI, Blackwell E, Scott K, Salway T, Knight R. Identifying Health Differences Between Transgender and Cisgender Gay, Bisexual and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men Using a Community-Based Approach. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2020; 57:1005-1013. [PMID: 32186417 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2020.1740148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we describe a community-based research (CBR) approach to making a national online survey of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) inclusive of transgender GBMSM by working with members of the transgender community at all stages of the research process. This collaboration resulted in 209 transgender GBMSM completing our survey and we contrasted their health experiences with 7439 cisgender GBMSM. We found that transgender GBMSM were less likely than cisgender GBMSM to report intercourse without a condom (AOR 0.43; 95% CI: 0.28-0.66) and to have had an HIV test (AOR 0.64; 95% CI 0.49-0.85). Transgender GBMSM were more likely to report discrimination in the health care system in their lifetime (AOR 4.17; 95% CI 3.03-5.73), to self-rate their health as poor (AOR 3.47; 95% CI 2.52-4.80), and to have discussed depression (AOR 3.47; 95% CI 262-4.59) or anxiety (AOR 3.27; 95% CI 2.47-4.33) with a health care provider. Our experience highlights the feasibility of including transgender individuals in GBMSM research, while the results affirm the need for GBMSM health services to take into account the unique experiences of transgender GBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Ferlatte
- Department of Social and Preventative Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique
- Community-Based Research Centre
| | | | - Ashleigh J Rich
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia
| | - Ayden I Scheim
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University
| | | | | | - Travis Salway
- Community-Based Research Centre
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity
| | - Rod Knight
- Community-Based Research Centre
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia
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25
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Gomez AM, Đỗ L, Ratliff GA, Crego PI, Hastings J. Contraceptive Beliefs, Needs, and Care Experiences Among Transgender and Nonbinary Young Adults. J Adolesc Health 2020; 67:597-602. [PMID: 32527572 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This qualitative study explores the contraceptive health-care needs of transgender and nonbinary young adults assigned female sex at birth. METHODS Qualitative interviews were conducted with 20 transgender and nonbinary young adults assigned female sex at birth (ages 22-29 years), recruited via online platforms and community agencies. Semistructured interviews elicited information on participants' gender and reproductive histories, health-care experiences, sexual practices, and contraceptive use and decision-making processes. Interviews were transcribed and coded using thematic analysis. RESULTS Primary thematic domains centered on contraceptive experiences and needs, testosterone as contraception, and experiences with reproductive health care. Participants generally did not use hormonal contraception to prevent pregnancy; in situations where pregnancy was possible, participants relied on condoms. Some participants believed testosterone use would prevent pregnancy and subsequently did not use a contraceptive method. Participants described the lack of knowledge, among themselves and providers, of the impacts of testosterone on pregnancy risk and interactions with hormonal contraception. They described reproductive health-care experiences in which providers were unfamiliar with the needs of transgender and nonbinary patients; made assumptions about bodies, partners, and identities; and lacked adequate knowledge to provide effective contraceptive care. CONCLUSIONS Patient-centered reproductive care requires that providers be sensitive to the stress of gender-affirming care and engage with contraceptive counseling that addresses patients' behavior, risks, and reproductive functions. In particular, providers should understand and communicate the impacts of testosterone therapy on pregnancy risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Manchikanti Gomez
- Sexual Health and Reproductive Equity Program, School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California.
| | - Lotus Đỗ
- Sexual Health and Reproductive Equity Program, School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California
| | - G Allen Ratliff
- Sexual Health and Reproductive Equity Program, School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California
| | - Pau I Crego
- Sexual Health and Reproductive Equity Program, School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California
| | - Jen Hastings
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Gender Spectrum, Berkeley, California
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26
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Abstract
We describe barriers to clinical care and research participation unique to transgender and gender nonbinary people and offer concrete suggestions for creating more inclusive environments. We aim to make evident that solely referencing cisgender women in the context of sexual and reproductive health—particularly pregnancy planning and care—excludes a diverse group of transgender and gender nonbinary people who have sexual and reproductive health needs and experiences that can be similar to but also unique from those of cisgender women. We call on clinicians and researchers to ensure that all points of sexual and reproductive health access, research, sources of information, and care delivery comprehensively include and are accessible to people of all genders. We describe barriers to sexual and reproductive health care and research participation unique to people of marginalized gender identities, provide examples of harm resulting from these barriers, and offer concrete suggestions for creating inclusive, accurate, and respectful care and research environments—which will lead to higher quality health care and science for people of all genders.
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27
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Taub RL, Ellis SA, Neal-Perry G, Magaret AS, Prager SW, Micks EA. The effect of testosterone on ovulatory function in transmasculine individuals. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 223:229.e1-229.e8. [PMID: 32044312 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.01.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An estimated 1.4 million persons in the United States identify as transgender or nonbinary, signifying that their gender identity does not correspond with their assigned sex at birth. Individuals assigned female at birth may seek gender-affirming hormone therapy with testosterone. No studies have directly examined ovulatory function in transmasculine individuals using injectable testosterone. OBJECTIVES Our primary objective was to determine the effect of testosterone on ovulatory suppression in transmasculine individuals. Secondary objectives were to determine predictors of ovulation in transmasculine individuals on testosterone, and to assess the effect of testosterone on antimüllerian hormone. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective observational study recruited participants from a community clinic that provides gender-affirming hormone therapy. Enrolled individuals were assigned female at birth and were currently using or seeking to initiate masculinizing therapy with injectable testosterone esters (transmasculine individuals). Over a 12-week study period, participants collected daily urine samples for pregnanediol-3-glucoronide testing and completed daily electronic bleeding diaries. We assessed monthly serum mid-dosing interval testosterone, estradiol and sex hormone binding globulin, and antimüllerian hormone values at baseline and study end. Ovulation was defined as pregnanediol-3-glucoronide greater than 5 μg/mL for 3 consecutive days. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants who ovulated during the study period. We examined predictors of ovulation such as age, length of time on testosterone, serum testosterone levels, body mass index, and bleeding pattern. RESULTS From July to November 2018, we enrolled 32 individuals; 20 completed the study (14 continuing testosterone users, 6 new users). Median age was 23 years (range 18-37 years). Bleeding or spotting during the study period was noted by 41% of participants (13/32). Among continuing users, median testosterone therapy duration was 11 months (range 1-60 months). A single ovulation was observed out of a total of 61 combined months of testosterone use; however, several transient rises in pregnanediol-3-glucoronide followed by bleeding episodes were suggestive of 7 dysfunctional ovulatory cycles among 7 individuals. There was no difference in antimüllerian hormone from baseline to 12 weeks between participants initiating testosterone and continuing users of testosterone. We did not have the power to examine our intended predictors given the low numbers of ovulatory events, but found that longer time on testosterone and presence of vaginal bleeding over 12 weeks were associated with transient rises in pregnanediol-3-glucoronide. CONCLUSION This study suggests that testosterone rapidly induces hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal suppression, resulting in anovulation in a proportion of new users. Importantly, these data also suggest that some long-term testosterone users break through the hormonal suppression and experience an ovulatory event, thereby raising concerns pertaining to the need for contraception in transmasculine individuals engaged in sexual intercourse with sperm-producing partners. Given the small number of overall participants, this work is hypothesis generating. Larger studies are needed to confirm and to clarify these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Taub
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
| | | | | | - Amalia S Magaret
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Sarah W Prager
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Elizabeth A Micks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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28
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Antebi-Gruszka N, Talan AJ, Reisner SL, Rendina HJ. Sociodemographic and behavioural factors associated with testing for HIV and STIs in a US nationwide sample of transgender men who have sex with men. Sex Transm Infect 2020; 96:422-427. [PMID: 32605930 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Transgender men who have sex with men (TMSM) represent an understudied population in relation to screening for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We examined HIV and STI testing prevalence among TMSM along with the factors associated with testing in a diverse US nationwide sample of TMSM. METHODS Data from a cross-sectional online convenience sample of 192 TMSM were analysed using multivariable binary logistic regression models to examine the association between sociodemographic and behavioural factors and lifetime testing for HIV, bacterial STIs and viral STIs, as well as past year testing for HIV. RESULTS More than two-thirds of TMSM reported lifetime testing for HIV (71.4%), bacterial STIs (66.7%), and viral STIs (70.8%), and 60.9% had received HIV testing in the past year. Engaging in condomless anal sex with a casual partner whose HIV status is different or unknown and having fewer than two casual partners in the past 6 months were related to lower odds of lifetime HIV, bacterial STI, viral STI and past year HIV testing. Being younger in age was related to lower probability of testing for HIV, bacterial STIs and viral STIs. Furthermore, TMSM residing in the South were less likely to be tested for HIV and viral STIs in their lifetime, and for HIV in the past year. Finally, lower odds of lifetime testing for viral STIs was found among TMSM who reported no drug use in the past 6 months. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that a notable percentage of TMSM had never tested for HIV and bacterial and viral STIs, though at rates only somewhat lower than among cisgender MSM despite similar patterns of risk behaviour. Efforts to increase HIV/STI testing among TMSM, especially among those who engage in condomless anal sex, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali J Talan
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the CIty University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
| | - Sari L Reisner
- Department of Epidemiology, The Fenway Institute at Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - H Jonathon Rendina
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the CIty University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA .,Health Psychology and Clinical Science PhD Program, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
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29
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Van Gerwen OT, Jani A, Long DM, Austin EL, Musgrove K, Muzny CA. Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections and Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Transgender Persons: A Systematic Review. Transgend Health 2020; 5:90-103. [PMID: 32656353 PMCID: PMC7347015 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2019.0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Despite reportedly high rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among transgender people, laboratory-proven prevalence of these infections in this population has not been systematically reviewed. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the medical literature involving laboratory-proven HIV and STI diagnoses among transgender people. Methods: A systematic review of the English literature regarding laboratory-proven HIV and/or STI testing in transgender populations within the last 50 years was performed. Preliminary meta-analyses assessing the prevalence of HIV and STIs among both transgender men and transgender women were performed. Given the heterogeneity of included studies, these analyses were difficult to interpret and not included in our results. Results: Our literature review identified 25 studies, representing 11 countries. All of these studies included transgender women, with 9 (36%) including data on transgender men. HIV was the most commonly studied STI, with prevalence ranging from 0% to 49.6% in transgender women and 0% to 8.3% in transgender men. For syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, respectively, prevalence ranged from 1.4% to 50.4%, 2.1% to 19.1%, and 2.7% to 24.7% in transgender women and from 0% to 4.2%, 0% to 10.5%, and 1.2% to 11.1% in transgender men. Site-specific testing practices for gonorrhea and chlamydia were variable. No studies reported prevalence data on trichomoniasis. Conclusion: The literature describing STIs and transgender people primarily focuses on transgender women and HIV. Data involving HIV and STIs among transgender men are lacking. These findings highlight opportunities for the future study of epidemiology of HIV/STIs in transgender men and the relevance of STIs in transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T Van Gerwen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Aditi Jani
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Dustin M Long
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Erika L Austin
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Karen Musgrove
- Magic City Wellness Center, Birmingham AIDS Outreach, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Christina A Muzny
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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30
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Klein A, Golub SA. Enhancing Gender-Affirming Provider Communication to Increase Health Care Access and Utilization Among Transgender Men and Trans-Masculine Non-Binary Individuals. LGBT Health 2020; 7:292-304. [PMID: 32493100 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2019.0294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study was designed to enhance health care providers' abilities to engage transgender men and trans-masculine non-binary individuals (TMNBI) in sexual and reproductive health care conversations by identifying preferences for provider communication and terminology related to sexual and reproductive anatomy and associated examinations. Methods: From May to July 2017, we conducted a cross-sectional online survey with a convenience sample of TMNBI (N = 1788) in the United States. We examined participants' provider communication experiences and preferences related to sexual and reproductive anatomy, and preferred terminology for sexual and reproductive anatomy and associated examinations. Communication experiences/preferences and preferred terminology were assessed by gender identity and gender-affirming medical interventions (hormones and/or surgery). Results: Most participants had regular access to health care (81.3%); of those, 83% received care from a provider knowledgeable in transgender health. Only 26.9% of participants reported that a provider had ever asked about preferred language for their genitalia/anatomy. The majority of the sample (77.7%) wanted a provider to ask directly for preferred language and 65% wanted a provider to use medical terminology, rather than slang when talking about their body. Participants provided varied responses for their preferred terminology related to sexual and reproductive anatomy and associated examinations. Conclusions: These data underscore the importance of medical providers asking for and then using TMNBI' preferred language during sexual and reproductive health conversations and examinations, rather than assuming that all TMNBI use the same language. Asking for and using TMNBI' preferred language may improve gender-affirming sexual and reproductive health care and increase patient engagement and retention among these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustus Klein
- Hunter Alliance for Research and Translation, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA.,Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
| | - Sarit A Golub
- Hunter Alliance for Research and Translation, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA.,Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA.,The Graduate Center of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York, USA
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31
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Pletta DR, White Hughto JM, Peitzmeier S, Deutsch MB, Pardee D, Potter J, Reisner SL. Individual- and Partnership-Level Correlates of Protective Barrier Use in a Sample of Transmasculine Adults with Diverse Sexual Partnerships. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2020; 34:237-246. [PMID: 32396475 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2019.0296] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The sexual partnerships of transmasculine adults-who were assigned female at birth and identify on the masculine gender continuum-remain understudied. This includes characteristics of transmasculine adults' sexual partnerships associated with engaging in HIV/sexually transmitted infection (STI) sexual risk behavior. This study examined individual- and partnership-level factors of transmasculine adults' sexual partnerships associated with using a protective barrier during sexual activity. Data came from cross-sectional surveys administered to 141 transmasculine adults. Participants provided demographic and sexual health information for up to three sexual partners from the past 12 months (n = 259 partnerships). Generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were used to investigate individual- and partnership-level factors associated with any use of a protective barrier during five sexual behaviors. Transmasculine participants engaged in an array of sexual behaviors with diverse sexual partners. Individual- and partnership-level factors of transmasculine adults' sexual partnerships were associated with their protective barrier use; however, these associations varied in statistical significance across the five sexual behaviors. At the individual level, younger participants had lower odds of protective barrier use during fingering or fisting. At the partnership level, protective barrier use was associated with a sexual partnership's configuration and the gender identity of a sexual partner. Relative to participants with cisgender female partners, those with cisgender male partners generally had lower odds of using a protective barrier. Study findings highlight the importance of studying factors associated with HIV/STI risk behavior located beyond the individual. These findings may have implications for improving measurements of HIV/STI-related risk for transmasculine adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jaclyn M. White Hughto
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Sarah Peitzmeier
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Madeline B. Deutsch
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Dana Pardee
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer Potter
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sari L. Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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32
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Radix AE, Harris AB, Goldstein ZG. How can we improve uptake of oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis for transgender individuals? Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 18:835-838. [PMID: 32316773 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2020.1759418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Asa E Radix
- Department of Medicine, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander B Harris
- Department of Research and Education, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Zil G Goldstein
- Department of Medicine, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center , New York, NY, USA
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33
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Goldstein Z, Martinson T, Ramachandran S, Lindner R, Safer JD. Improved Rates of Cervical Cancer Screening Among Transmasculine Patients Through Self-Collected Swabs for High-Risk Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing. Transgend Health 2020; 5:10-17. [PMID: 32322684 PMCID: PMC7173695 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2019.0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Nearly all cervical cancer cases are caused by one of several high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (hr-HPV). Transmasculine (TM) individuals (persons who have a masculine spectrum gender identity, but were recorded female at birth) have low adherence to standard cervical cancer screening modalities. Introduction of self-collected vaginal swabs for hr-HPV DNA testing may promote initiation and adherence to cervical cancer screening among TM individuals to narrow screening disparities. The purpose of this study was to assess the rate of cervical cancer screening among TM individuals following the introduction of self-collected swabbing for hr-HPV DNA testing in comparison to clinician-administered cervical specimen collection. Methods: Rates of uptake and adherence to cervical cancer screening among TM individuals were assessed before and after the clinical introduction of self-collected swab testing in October 2017. Rates were compared with the rates of cervical cancer screening among cisgender women at a colocated Comprehensive Health Program during the time period of review. Results: Of the 121 TM patients seen for primary care in the 6-month baseline period before the October 2017 introduction of self-collected swabbing for hr-HPV DNA testing, 30 (25%) had cervical cancer screening documented in the electronic medical record. Following the implementation of self-swabbing, of 193 patients, 98 (51%) had a documented cervical cancer screening, a two-fold increase in the rates of adherence to cervical cancer screening (p<0.001). Conclusion: Self-collected swab testing for hr-HPV can increase rates of adherence to screening recommendations among an otherwise under-screened population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zil Goldstein
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Tyler Martinson
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Shruti Ramachandran
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Rebecca Lindner
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Joshua D Safer
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
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Kessler R, Hinkle BT, Moyers A, Silverberg B. Adolescent Sexual Health: Identity, Risk, and Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections. Prim Care 2020; 47:367-382. [PMID: 32423720 DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2020.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Development of SOGIE (sexual orientation and gender identity and expression) is not unique to minority populations, as all adolescents grapple with their sexuality and identity. Health care providers straddle the unique positions of authority figure and advocate and can help these young people establish behaviors that will allow them to flourish as adults. This article discusses the appropriate language to use while conducting a sexual history, summarizes the epidemiologic data on sexually transmitted infections, and reviews the screening and reporting guidelines set forth by the United States Preventive Services Task Force and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roanna Kessler
- Johns Hopkins University Student Health and Wellness Center, Homewood Student Affairs, 1 East 31st Street, N200, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - B Tate Hinkle
- Total Healthcare at Russell Medical Center, 3504 Highway 280, Alexander City, AL 35010, USA; Department of Family Medicine, UAB Huntsville Regional Medical Campus, 301 Governors Drive SW, Huntsville, AL 35801, USA
| | - Amy Moyers
- Department of Family Medicine, WVU Medicine, 6040 University Town Center Drive, Morgantown, WV 26501, USA
| | - Benjamin Silverberg
- Department of Family Medicine, WVU Medicine, 6040 University Town Center Drive, Morgantown, WV 26501, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, WVU Medicine, 1 Medical Center Drive, Box 9149, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Human Performance, West Virginia University School of Medicine, 64 Medical Center Drive, Box 9226, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA.
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Reisner SL, Moore CS, Asquith A, Pardee DJ, Mayer KH. Gender Non-affirmation from Cisgender Male Partners: Development and Validation of a Brief Stigma Scale for HIV Research with Transgender Men Who Have Sex with Men (Trans MSM). AIDS Behav 2020; 24:331-343. [PMID: 31865515 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02749-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Some transgender men who have sex with men (trans MSM) are vulnerable to HIV infection and face stigma from sexual partners. We evaluated a brief 4-item measure of gender non-affirmation from cisgender male partners. A non-probability sample of American trans MSM (n = 843) reporting past 6-month sexual contact with a cisgender male completed a cross-sectional survey. Psychometric analyses assessed the scale and modeled HIV risk associations. Overall, 78% experienced past 6-month gender non-affirmation from cisgender male partners. The scale demonstrated good reliability (α = 0.78). Convergent validity was supported in associations with psychological distress and anxiety (p < 0.05). Lower frequency of cisgender male partner stigma was associated with increased odds of past 6-month HIV testing and decreased odds of past 6-month condomless receptive sex (all p < 0.01). The gender non-affirmation from cisgender male sexual partners scale found negative associations with protective health behaviors and can be used to better understand the context of trans MSM risk behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari L Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA.
- Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | | | | | - Dana J Pardee
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Feinstein BA, Dodge B. Meeting the Sexual Health Needs of Bisexual Men in the Age of Biomedical HIV Prevention: Gaps and Priorities. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:217-232. [PMID: 31691076 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-1428-3)] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The field of HIV/STI prevention has primarily focused on gay men (or "men who have sex with men" [MSM] as a broad category) with limited attention to bisexual men in particular. Although bisexual men are also at increased risk for HIV and other STI, they are less likely to utilize HIV/STI prevention services than gay men, and very few interventions have been developed to address their unique needs. Further, while biomedical advances are changing the field of HIV prevention, bisexual men are also less likely to use biomedical HIV prevention strategies (e.g., pre-exposure prophylaxis [PrEP]) than gay men. In an effort to advance research on bisexual men and their sexual health needs, the goals of this commentary are: (1) to review the empirical literature on the prevalence of HIV/STI among bisexual men, the few existing HIV/STI prevention interventions developed for bisexual men, and the use of biomedical HIV prevention among bisexual men; (2) to describe the ways in which the field of HIV/STI prevention has largely overlooked bisexual men as a population in need of targeted services; and (3) to discuss how researchers can better address the sexual health needs of bisexual men in the age of biomedical HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian A Feinstein
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., #14-047, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Brian Dodge
- Indiana University School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
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Feinstein BA, Dodge B. Meeting the Sexual Health Needs of Bisexual Men in the Age of Biomedical HIV Prevention: Gaps and Priorities. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:217-232. [PMID: 31691076 PMCID: PMC7018582 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01468-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The field of HIV/STI prevention has primarily focused on gay men (or "men who have sex with men" [MSM] as a broad category) with limited attention to bisexual men in particular. Although bisexual men are also at increased risk for HIV and other STI, they are less likely to utilize HIV/STI prevention services than gay men, and very few interventions have been developed to address their unique needs. Further, while biomedical advances are changing the field of HIV prevention, bisexual men are also less likely to use biomedical HIV prevention strategies (e.g., pre-exposure prophylaxis [PrEP]) than gay men. In an effort to advance research on bisexual men and their sexual health needs, the goals of this commentary are: (1) to review the empirical literature on the prevalence of HIV/STI among bisexual men, the few existing HIV/STI prevention interventions developed for bisexual men, and the use of biomedical HIV prevention among bisexual men; (2) to describe the ways in which the field of HIV/STI prevention has largely overlooked bisexual men as a population in need of targeted services; and (3) to discuss how researchers can better address the sexual health needs of bisexual men in the age of biomedical HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian A Feinstein
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., #14-047, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Brian Dodge
- Indiana University School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
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Scheer JR, Antebi-Gruszka N. A Psychosocial Risk Model of Potentially Traumatic Events And Sexual Risk Behavior Among LGBTQ Individuals. J Trauma Dissociation 2019; 20:603-618. [PMID: 30932780 PMCID: PMC7009774 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2019.1597815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals face heightened risk of potentially traumatic events (PTEs) exposure, including hate crimes and childhood abuse. Past research demonstrates associations between PTEs exposure and sexual risk behavior; however, examining the indirect effect of PTEs on sexual risk behavior remains understudied among LGBTQ individuals. This study tested a path analysis model to inform interventions targeted to reduce sexual risk behavior, as conceptualized by condomless sex with casual partners without knowing the person's HIV or sexually transmitted infection (STI) status, among LGBTQ individuals with PTEs exposure. Participants completed an online one-time survey and included 207 LGBTQ adults who experienced at least one PTE during the past year. Indirect effect results indicated that PTEs exposure was related to sexual risk behavior through serial associations between shame, loneliness, and substance use. Direct effect estimates indicated that greater PTEs exposure was associated with greater shame, loneliness, substance use, and sexual risk behavior. Greater shame was associated with greater loneliness, which was associated with greater substance use. Also, greater substance use was associated with greater sexual risk behavior. This study adds to the burgeoning body of literature on the relationship between PTEs exposure and sexual risk behavior among LGBTQ individuals. Clinical and counseling interventions for LGBTQ individuals with PTEs exposure should work to address modifiable psychosocial risk factors associated with sexual risk behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian R. Scheer
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nadav Antebi-Gruszka
- Department of Psychology, City College of New York, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
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Reisner SL, Moore CS, Asquith A, Pardee DJ, Sarvet A, Mayer G, Mayer KH. High risk and low uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV acquisition in a national online sample of transgender men who have sex with men in the United States. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25391. [PMID: 31536171 PMCID: PMC6752156 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Trans masculine people who have sex with cisgender ("cis") men ("trans MSM") may be at-risk for HIV infection when they have cis MSM partners or share needles for hormone or recreational drug injection. Limited data are available characterizing indications and uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in trans MSM. The aim of this study was to assess PrEP indication and uptake as a means of primary HIV prevention for adult trans MSM in the U.S. METHODS Between November and December 2017, a national convenience sample of trans MSM in the U.S. (n = 857) was recruited using participatory methodologies and completed an online survey of demographics, HIV risk, PrEP, behavioural and psychosocial factors. Self-reported receptive anal sex or frontal/vaginal sex (with or without a condom) with a cis male sex partner in past six months was an eligibility criterion. A multivariable logistic regression procedure was used to model PrEP indications (yes/no) per an interpretation of U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention recommendations among those without HIV (n = 843). RESULTS The diverse sample was 4.9% Black; 22.1% Latinx ethnicity; 28.4% non-binary gender identity; 32.6% gay-identified; 82.7% on testosterone. Overall, 84.1% had heard of PrEP. Of these, 33.3% reported lifetime PrEP use (21.8% current and 11.5% past). Based on HIV behavioural risk profiles in the last six months, 55.2% of respondents had indications for PrEP. In a multivariable model, factors associated with PrEP indication included where met sex partners, not having sex exclusively with cismen, higher perceived HIV risk, greater number of partners and high cis male partner stigma (all p < 0.05). DISCUSSION The majority of trans MSM in this sample had a PrEP indication. Stigma was associated with risk for HIV acquisition and represents a critical target for HIV biobehavioural prevention interventions for trans MSM, who appear to be underutilizing PrEP. CONCLUSIONS Results from this study support the full inclusion of trans MSM in HIV biobehavioural prevention efforts. Public health interventions and programmes are needed to reach trans MSM that attend to general MSM risk factors as well as to vulnerabilities specific to trans MSM, including the context of stigma from cis male sexual partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari L Reisner
- The Fenway InstituteFenway HealthBostonMAUSA
- Department of PediatricsBoston Children's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMAUSA
| | | | | | | | - Aaron Sarvet
- Department of EpidemiologyHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMAUSA
| | - Gal Mayer
- Gilead Sciences, Inc.Foster CityCAUSA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway InstituteFenway HealthBostonMAUSA
- Department of MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Global Population HealthHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMAUSA
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Stark B, Hughto JMW, Charlton BM, Deutsch MB, Potter J, Reisner SL. The contraceptive and reproductive history and planning goals of trans-masculine adults: a mixed-methods study. Contraception 2019; 100:468-473. [PMID: 31400297 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2019.07.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to identify factors associated with the reproductive planning of trans-masculine adults. STUDY DESIGN Between 2015 and 2016, providers enrolled 150 trans-masculine adults in a sexual health study assessing sociodemographics, social support, gender affirmation, sexual partnering, and reproductive history and planning. A brief clinical interview assessed contraceptive use and concerns. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses examined associations between participant characteristics and three outcomes: current contraceptive use, lifetime pregnancy history and reproductive planning. RESULTS Overall, 37.3% are currently using contraceptives; 5.3% have been pregnant; and 20.0% plan to have biological children (9.3% plan to become pregnant; 12.0% plan to use their oocytes with a surrogate). Participants are less likely to use contraceptives if they are students vs. not, have socially affirmed their gender vs. not and have a partner vs. are single. Greater number of sexual partners is associated with the increased odds of contraceptive use. Further, as social support increases, the odds of having been pregnant decreases. Participants with a nonbinary gender identity are more likely to want to become pregnant than those with a binary gender identity, whereas those who have socially affirmed their gender are less likely to want to become pregnant than those who had not. Finally, participants of color more commonly planned to use their oocytes with a surrogate than white participants. CONCLUSION Sociodemographic, gender affirmation, social support and sexual partner factors are associated with contraceptive use and reproductive history among trans-masculine patients. IMPLICATIONS Healthcare providers must be aware of the diverse reproductive histories and pregnancy goals of trans-masculine individuals in order to provide comprehensive reproductive healthcare counseling and provision. More research is needed to better understand contraception and reproduction desires in trans-masculine individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Stark
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Jaclyn M W Hughto
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI; Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI; Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI; The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA
| | - Brittany M Charlton
- Division of Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Madeline B Deutsch
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA; Center of Excellence for Transgender Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jennifer Potter
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA; Department of General Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sari L Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA.
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Fontanari AMV, Vianna LL, Schneider M, Soll BMB, Schwarz K, da Silva DC, Real AG, Costa AB, Lobato MIR. A Retrospective Review of Medical Records of Laboratory-Tested Sexually Transmitted Infections of Transsexual Men from Southern Brazil. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1573-1579. [PMID: 30825106 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-1395-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The present study assessed the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in 90 transsexual men (female-to-male transsexual persons) from southern Brazil. A retrospective review of the medical records of all transsexual men who visited an outpatient clinic in Rio Grande do Sul from 1998 to 2017 was performed. Although the sample had a high prevalence of risk factors for contracting STIs, such as drug use, one-third of the participants had never been tested for STIs and, when screened, it was mostly for HIV, but not for syphilis or other STIs. Based only on laboratory-tested transsexual men, the prevalence of syphilis and hepatitis C was 3.4% and 1.6%, respectively, which is higher than the general population. It is clear that health professionals need to broaden their understanding of transsexual men, acknowledging STIs as a possible diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Martha Vaitses Fontanari
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre and Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90035-903, Brazil.
| | - Luciana Lemos Vianna
- Department of Psychology, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Maiko Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre and Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90035-903, Brazil
| | - Bianca Machado Borba Soll
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre and Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90035-903, Brazil
| | - Karine Schwarz
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre and Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90035-903, Brazil
| | - Dhiordan Cardoso da Silva
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre and Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90035-903, Brazil
| | - André Gonzales Real
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre and Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90035-903, Brazil
| | - Angelo Brandelli Costa
- Department of Psychology, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Maria Inês Rodrigues Lobato
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre and Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90035-903, Brazil
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Abstract
Worldwide, transgender populations are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Pervasive stigma and discrimination impact social and economic determinants of health, which perpetuate HIV disparities among transgender individuals. This article reviews the prevalence of HIV infection among transgender populations and presents psychosocial, behavioral, and individual level factors that contribute to HIV acquisition. The authors provide practical recommendations regarding a patient-centered approach to HIV/sexually transmitted infection risk assessment. The role of preexposure prophylaxis utilization in preventing the transmission of HIV is discussed as well as the current data on HIV treatment outcomes for transgender people living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassie G Ackerley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; The Hope Clinic of the Emory Vaccine Center, 500 Irvin Ct, Suite 200, Decatur, GA 30030, USA.
| | - Tonia Poteat
- Center for Health Equity Research, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 333 South Columbia Street, 345B MacNider Hall, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Colleen F Kelley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; The Hope Clinic of the Emory Vaccine Center, 500 Irvin Ct, Suite 200, Decatur, GA 30030, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Reisner SL, Jadwin-Cakmak L, Sava L, Liu S, Harper GW. Situated Vulnerabilities, Sexual Risk, and Sexually Transmitted Infections' Diagnoses in a Sample of Transgender Youth in the United States. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2019; 33:120-130. [PMID: 30844303 PMCID: PMC6442265 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2018.0249] [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] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the United States, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) confer significant morbidity in adolescents and young adults. STIs are not well characterized in transgender and other gender minority youth (TGMY) who have a gender identity that differs from the sex assigned to them at birth. This study sought to fill this gap. In 2015-2016, the Adolescent Medicine Trials Network for HIV/AIDS Interventions conducted Protocol 130, Affirming Voices for Action, enrolling a diverse sample of TGMY 16-24 years of age from 14 US geographic locations. Multivariable analyses regressed lifetime STI diagnosis on "situated vulnerabilities" (demographics, social/economic issues, mental/behavioral health conditions, and health care experience). Approximately one-third were living with HIV infection (31%); 33% had a history of one or more STIs, excluding HIV. The most frequently diagnosed STIs were 55% chlamydia, 48% syphilis, and 47% gonorrhea. The odds of STI was 4.06 times higher for trans feminine youth assigned a male sex at birth compared to trans masculine youth assigned a female sex at birth (p = 0.03). Additional risk factors for lifetime STI were as follows: nonbinary gender identity (p = 0.004), medical gender affirmation (p = 0.03), and transactional sex (p = 0.01). Nearly one-third (31%) reported condomless vaginal and/or anal sex in the last 6 months, suggesting a need for ongoing STI prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment. TGMY are a vulnerable group to STIs in need of public health attention. Clinical care for STIs will benefit from considering risk factors facing youth in general (e.g., sex work), alongside those vulnerabilities unique to TGMY (e.g., medical gender affirmation).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari L. Reisner
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Laura Jadwin-Cakmak
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Lauren Sava
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - ShanShan Liu
- Institutional Centers for Clinical and Translational Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Gary W. Harper
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Harb CYW, Pass LE, De Soriano IC, Zwick A, Gilbert PA. Motivators and Barriers to Accessing Sexual Health Care Services for Transgender/Genderqueer Individuals Assigned Female Sex at Birth. Transgend Health 2019; 4:58-67. [PMID: 31032422 PMCID: PMC6484346 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2018.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Individuals who were assigned female sex at birth (AFAB) but do not conform to the gender binary (i.e., transgender/genderqueer) often do not seek out necessary sexual health care, including Papanicolaou (Pap) tests, placing them at heightened risk of cervical cancer. Despite growing awareness, scant research has focused on the sexual health care experiences of this population in Midwestern and rural states. Methods: We used two approaches to develop a more detailed understanding of factors that determine sexual health care use. Seventeen transgender/genderqueer AFAB individuals completed a quantitative knowledge survey then participated in a semistructured qualitative interview to further elaborate their experiences with sexual health care services as well as the motivators and barriers related to accessing the health care system. We produced descriptive summaries of quantitative data and conducted a thematic analysis of interview transcripts. Results: The sample was mostly young adults, of whom nearly all were white and 65% self-identified as transgender men. Participants displayed good knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) and Pap tests; however, 41% rated themselves as “unaware” and 59% rated themselves as “aware but not well informed” about HPV. Fifty-nine percent had ever obtained a Pap test. We identified one facilitating factor (health care provider's role and relationship) and three inhibiting factors (availability of competent care; distress about seeking sexual health care; health care setting characteristics) related to obtaining Pap tests. Conclusion: As this study was conducted in the U.S. Midwest, findings extend the geographic scope of existing knowledge and may inform future risk reduction interventions and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Y W Harb
- Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, Missouri
| | - Lauren E Pass
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Isabella C De Soriano
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Adelaide Zwick
- University of Iowa College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Paul A Gilbert
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa
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Nguyen VAT, Nguyen NQH, Khuat TH, Nguyen PTT, Do TT, Vu XT, Tran K, Ho MT, Nguyen HKT, Vuong TT, Vuong QH. Righting the Misperceptions of Men Having Sex with Men: A Pre-Requisite for Protecting and Understanding Gender Incongruence in Vietnam. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E105. [PMID: 30658424 PMCID: PMC6351936 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Protecting the rights of the lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender, intersex, and queers (LGBTIQ) population requires, first and foremost, a proper understanding of their sexual orientation and gender identity. This study highlights a severe misunderstanding and lack of knowledge among health professionals in Vietnam with regard to the men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgenders. This study uses (i) a survey based on the convenience sampling method among 150 health workers that covered 61 questions and (ii) 12 in-depth interviews in two metropolitan centres in Vietnam, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city. Three main topics are explored: (i) the general knowledge of healthcare workers about MSM and transgenders; (ii) their knowledge about the sexual reproductive health and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) risks of MSM and transgenders; and (iii) their attitudes and behaviors towards MSM and transgenders. One of the notable findings is how prevalent the misperceptions are across the board, namely, in staff of both sexes, in both cities, at various kinds of medical facilities, at different work positions and educational levels. Half of the respondents consider transgenders to have a curable mental problem while 45% say MSM only have sex with males. Most remarkably, 12.7% state if they have any choice, they want nothing to do with MSM and transgenders. The study finds there is a considerable percentage of health professionals who lack knowledge about the diversity of sexual orientation, gender identity, and health issues related to the sexual minorities and gender non-conforming population. To improve the clinical process for serving these at-risk groups, the study suggests the continual education for the health workers needs to be added to their formal as well as in-job training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Anh T Nguyen
- Institute for Social Development Studies (ISDS), Hanoi 100000, Vietnam.
| | | | - Thu Hong Khuat
- Institute for Social Development Studies (ISDS), Hanoi 100000, Vietnam.
| | | | - Thu Trang Do
- Institute for Social Development Studies (ISDS), Hanoi 100000, Vietnam.
| | - Xuan Thai Vu
- Institute for Social Development Studies (ISDS), Hanoi 100000, Vietnam.
| | - Kien Tran
- Institute for Social Development Studies (ISDS), Hanoi 100000, Vietnam.
- School of Law, Vietnam National University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam.
| | - Manh Tung Ho
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Social Research, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 100803, Vietnam.
- Faculty of Economics and Finance, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 100803, Vietnam.
| | | | | | - Quan Hoang Vuong
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Social Research, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 100803, Vietnam.
- Faculty of Economics and Finance, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 100803, Vietnam.
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Harper GW, Jadwin-Cakmak LA, Popoff E, Campbell BA, Granderson R, Wesp LM, Emmanuel, Straub, Bruce, Kerr, Belzer, Tucker, Franco, D'Angelo, Trexler, Carr, Sinkfield, Douglas, Tanney, DiBenedetto, Franklin, Smith, Henry-Reid, Bojan, Balthazar, Futterman, Campos, Wesp, Nazario, Reopell, Abdalian, Kozina, Baker, Wilkes, Friedman, Maturo, Gaur, Flynn, Dillard, Hurd-Sawyer, Paul, Head, Sierra, Secord, Cromer, Walters, Houston, George-Agwu, Anderson, Worrel-Thorne, Mayer, Dormitzer, Massaquoi, Gelman, Reirden, Hahn, Bernath, C. Wilson, C. Partlow, G. Price. Transgender and Other Gender-Diverse Youth's Progression Through the HIV Continuum of Care: Socioecological System Barriers. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2019; 33:32-43. [PMID: 30601061 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2018.0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgender and other gender-diverse youth (TGDY) are disproportionately affected by HIV and in need of developmentally and culturally appropriate services as they progress along the HIV continuum of care (CoC). We conducted a phenomenological analysis of 66 in-depth interviews with TGDY living with HIV (ages 16-24) from 14 cities across the United States about their experiences within the different stages of the HIV CoC. TGDY described experiencing a wide variety of barriers across each examined stage of the HIV CoC, including HIV testing, linkage to care, retention in care, initiation of antiretroviral therapy, and adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Within these CoC stages, TGDY experienced barriers to care across all socioecological systems, including the sociocultural systems, clinic/organizational systems, and interpersonal systems. Barrier themes remained relatively constant for all stages of the CoC, although the way each thematic category of barrier (e.g., the theme of societal oppression and discrimination within the sociocultural level) was experienced varied by stage. Although overall thematic categories were typically not focused solely on threats to participants' gender identity and expression, specific descriptions of the nature of the thematic barriers were related to gender identity and gender expression. Implications of the findings for future research and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary W. Harper
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Laura A. Jadwin-Cakmak
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Elliot Popoff
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Bré Anne Campbell
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ricky Granderson
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Linda M. Wesp
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, College of Nursing, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Rahman M, Li DH, Moskowitz DA. Comparing the Healthcare Utilization and Engagement in a Sample of Transgender and Cisgender Bisexual+ Persons. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:255-260. [PMID: 29633060 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1164-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
People who identify as non-monosexual and transgender experience disparities in engagement with healthcare services relative to monosexual and cisgender persons, respectively. However, little is known about the healthcare utilization of those with intersecting sexual and gender minority identities. We explored the knowledge, attitudes, and health motivation of non-monosexually identified transgender participants regarding preventive care and access to sexual healthcare services. We surveyed 87 ciswomen, 34 transwomen, and 27 transmen, all of whom identified as bisexual, pansexual, or queer (bi+). We assessed their access to health care, health outcome experiences, confidence with talking about anogenital topics, proactivity toward their health, comfort with healthcare providers, and knowledge about HPV and examined differences across groups. The data indicated that bi+ transmen and transwomen were more likely to be uninsured or on a government-sponsored insurance plan relative to bi+ ciswomen. Only a minority of transmen and transwomen had seen an obstetrician/gynecologist compared with ciswomen. Transmen were less likely to have received a pelvic examination or cervical Pap smear in their lifetime. Transgender participants had significantly less correct knowledge about HPV relative to ciswomen. Finally, relative to ciswomen, transgender participants reported lower comfort talking with health providers. Our findings suggest that bi+ transmen and transwomen access care less than bi+ ciswomen and have less health knowledge and comfort with their providers. Implications for intervention include encouraging transgender individuals to seek routine screenings, reducing structural barriers to care based on medical coverage, and improving patient-provider competencies around bi+ and transgender health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Musarrat Rahman
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Sciences and Practice, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Dennis H Li
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 14-051, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - David A Moskowitz
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 14-051, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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Shover CL, Javanbakht M, Shoptaw S, Bolan RK, Lee SJ, Parsons JT, Rendina J, Gorbach PM. HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis Initiation at a Large Community Clinic: Differences Between Eligibility, Awareness, and Uptake. Am J Public Health 2018; 108:1408-1417. [PMID: 30138062 PMCID: PMC6137770 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2018.304623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterize uptake of HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in a community setting and to identify disparities in PrEP use by demographic and behavioral factors associated with increased HIV risk. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of 19 587 men who have sex with men and transgender people visiting a Los Angeles, California, clinic specializing in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender care between August 2015 and February 2018 by using clinical care data. RESULTS Seventy percent of patients met PrEP eligibility criteria, while 10% reported PrEP use. Using sex drugs, reporting both condomless anal intercourse and recent sexually transmitted infection, older age, and higher education level were associated with higher odds of PrEP use given eligibility. Latino or Asian race/ethnicity and bisexual orientation were associated with lower odds of PrEP use given eligibility. Higher odds of perceived need were associated with demographic risk factors but PrEP use was not similarly elevated. CONCLUSIONS Discrepancies between PrEP eligibility, perceived need, and use reveal opportunities to improve PrEP delivery in community settings. Public Health Implications. Efforts are needed to facilitate PrEP uptake in populations with highest HIV incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea L Shover
- Chelsea L. Shover is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles; and the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA. Marjan Javanbakht is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health. Steven Shoptaw is with the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Bio-behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles. Robert K. Bolan is with the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center. Sung-Jae Lee is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine. Jeffrey T. Parsons and Jonathon Rendina are with the Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY. Pamina M. Gorbach is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Chelsea L. Shover is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles; and the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA. Marjan Javanbakht is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health. Steven Shoptaw is with the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Bio-behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles. Robert K. Bolan is with the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center. Sung-Jae Lee is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine. Jeffrey T. Parsons and Jonathon Rendina are with the Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY. Pamina M. Gorbach is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Chelsea L. Shover is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles; and the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA. Marjan Javanbakht is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health. Steven Shoptaw is with the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Bio-behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles. Robert K. Bolan is with the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center. Sung-Jae Lee is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine. Jeffrey T. Parsons and Jonathon Rendina are with the Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY. Pamina M. Gorbach is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Robert K Bolan
- Chelsea L. Shover is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles; and the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA. Marjan Javanbakht is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health. Steven Shoptaw is with the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Bio-behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles. Robert K. Bolan is with the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center. Sung-Jae Lee is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine. Jeffrey T. Parsons and Jonathon Rendina are with the Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY. Pamina M. Gorbach is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Sung-Jae Lee
- Chelsea L. Shover is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles; and the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA. Marjan Javanbakht is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health. Steven Shoptaw is with the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Bio-behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles. Robert K. Bolan is with the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center. Sung-Jae Lee is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine. Jeffrey T. Parsons and Jonathon Rendina are with the Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY. Pamina M. Gorbach is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Jeffrey T Parsons
- Chelsea L. Shover is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles; and the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA. Marjan Javanbakht is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health. Steven Shoptaw is with the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Bio-behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles. Robert K. Bolan is with the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center. Sung-Jae Lee is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine. Jeffrey T. Parsons and Jonathon Rendina are with the Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY. Pamina M. Gorbach is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Jonathon Rendina
- Chelsea L. Shover is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles; and the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA. Marjan Javanbakht is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health. Steven Shoptaw is with the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Bio-behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles. Robert K. Bolan is with the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center. Sung-Jae Lee is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine. Jeffrey T. Parsons and Jonathon Rendina are with the Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY. Pamina M. Gorbach is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Chelsea L. Shover is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles; and the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA. Marjan Javanbakht is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health. Steven Shoptaw is with the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Bio-behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles. Robert K. Bolan is with the Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center. Sung-Jae Lee is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine. Jeffrey T. Parsons and Jonathon Rendina are with the Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY. Pamina M. Gorbach is with the Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health; and Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine
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Deutsch MB. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis in Trans Populations: Providing Gender-Affirming Prevention for Trans People at High Risk of Acquiring HIV. LGBT Health 2018; 5:387-390. [PMID: 30272493 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2018.0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgender (trans) people, particularly trans women of color, face alarmingly high rates of HIV. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with daily coformulated emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is a promising biomedical HIV prevention modality; however, it has not yet been shown to be efficacious in the transgender population due to data limitations. Initial data suggest that barriers exist to PrEP uptake in the trans community, including lack of access to healthcare and concerns about interactions with hormone therapy. This article discusses these factors and reviews considerations for enhancing PrEP uptake and adherence in trans people at risk for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline B Deutsch
- 1 Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California , San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,2 UCSF Transgender Care, UCSF Medical Center, University of California , San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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