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Olorunfemi G, Libhaber E, Ezechi OC, Musenge E. Population-based temporal trends and ethnic disparity in breast cancer mortality in South Africa (1999-2018): Joinpoint and age-period-cohort regression analyses. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1056609. [PMID: 36816918 PMCID: PMC9935608 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1056609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, accounting for 15.5% of female cancer deaths in 2020. Breast cancer is also the leading cause of female cancers in South Africa. The rapid epidemiological transition in South Africa may have an impact on the trends in breast cancer mortality in the country. We therefore evaluated the trends in the breast cancer mortality in SA over 20 years (1999-2020). Methods Joinpoint regression analyses of the trends in crude and age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR) of breast cancer among South African women were conducted from 1999 to 2018 using mortality data from Statistics South Africa. Age-period-cohort regression analysis was then conducted to evaluate the independent effect of age, period, and cohort on breast cancer mortality, and analysis was stratified by ethnicity. Results The mortality rate of breast cancer (from 9.82 to 13.27 per 100,000 women) increased at around 1.4% per annum (Average Annual Percent Change (AAPC): 1.4%, 95% CI:0.8-2.0, P-value< 0.001). Young women aged 30-49 years (1.1%-1.8%, P-value< 0.001) had increased breast cancer mortality. The risk of breast cancer mortality increased among successive birth cohorts from 1924 to 1928 but decreased among recent cohorts born from 1989 to 1993. In 2018, the breast cancer mortality rate among Blacks (9.49/100,000 women) was around half of the rates among the non-Blacks. (Coloreds: 18.11 per 100,000 women; Whites: 17.77/100,000 women; Indian/Asian: 13.24 per 100,000 women). Conclusions Contrary to the trends in high- and middle-income countries, breast cancer mortality increased in South Africa especially among young women. Breast cancer prevention programs should be intensified and should also target young women. The marked disparity in ethnic burden of breast cancer should be considered during planning and implementation of interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gbenga Olorunfemi
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Elena Libhaber
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Eustasius Musenge
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Population-Based Temporal Trends and Ethnic Disparity in Cervical Cancer Mortality in South Africa (1999-2018): A Join Point and Age-Period-Cohort Regression Analyses. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246256. [PMID: 36551741 PMCID: PMC9816936 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women in low- and middle-income countries such as South Africa. The current impact of national cervical cancer control and sexual and reproductive health interventions in South Africa reduce its burden. The aim of this study was to assess the trends in cervical cancer mortality and its relation to breast and gynaecological cancers in South Africa from 1999 to 2018. We conducted joinpoint regression analyses of the trends in crude and age-standardised mortality rates (ASMR) for cervical cancer mortality in South Africa from 1999 to 2018. An age−period−cohort regression analysis was also conducted to determine the impact of age, period, and cohort on cervical cancer mortality trends. Analyses were stratified by ethnicity. Cervical cancer (n = 59,190, 43.92%, 95% CI: 43.65−44.18%) was responsible for about 43.9% of breast and gynecological cancer deaths. The mortality rate of cervical cancer (from 11.7 to 14.08 per 100,000) increased at about 0.9% per annum (Average Annual Percent Change (AAPC): 0.9% (AAPC: 0.9%, p-value < 0.001)), and young women aged 25 to 49 years (AAPC: 1.2−3.5%, p-value < 0.001) had increased rates. The risk of cervical cancer mortality increased among successive birth cohorts. In 2018, cervical cancer mortality rate among Blacks (16.74 per 100,000 women) was about twice the rates among Coloureds (8.53 deaths per 100,000 women) and approximately four-fold among Indians/Asians (4.16 deaths per 100,000 women), and Whites (3.06 deaths per 100,000 women). Cervical cancer control efforts should be enhanced in South Africa and targeted at ethnic difference, age, period, and cohort effects.
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Corley A, Perrin N, Geiger K, Remy MM, Glass N. Exploring caregivers' gender attitudes' influence on adolescent health in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo: A mixed methods study. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3700-3720. [PMID: 35442156 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2049848] [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: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a developmentally important phase in one's life. However, restrictive gender attitudes that gain increased importance during adolescence prevent many from reaching their health and development potential. The objective of this study is to explore associations between caregiver gender attitudes and adolescent psychosocial health, school attendance, and food security in a sample living in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a region that has experienced persistent poverty and nearly thirty years of insecurity. A mixed methods design was selected for this research. Quantitative results were combined with qualitative focus group discussion results to provide new insight into how caregiver gender attitudes might influence adolescent health and development. Findings from the research suggest that more gender equitable caregiver attitudes are associated with fewer reports of internalising behaviour and greater food security in adolescent girls. No significant associations were found between caregiver gender equality attitudes and adolescent prosocial behaviour or school attendance. Focus group discussions supported some quantitative findings while refuting others. Participants suggested that adolescent girls with caregivers who endorse more equitable gender attitudes experience less psychological control and witness less conflict and violence between caregivers in their home.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy Perrin
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Keri Geiger
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mitima Mpanano Remy
- Programme d'Appui aux Initiatives de Développement Economique au Kivu (PAIDEK), Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Nancy Glass
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Sinha S, Bhatia R, Narasimamurthy M, Rayne S, Grover S. Epidemiology of Breast Cancer Presentation in Botswana, South Africa, and the United States. J Surg Res 2022; 279:533-539. [PMID: 35868037 PMCID: PMC10033457 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.04.071] [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: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study sought to compare the clinicopathologic features of women with breast cancer presenting in South Africa, Botswana, and the United States (US). METHODS Breast cancer samples from Botswana (n = 384, 2011-2015), South Africa (n = 475, 2016-2017), and the US (n = 361,353, 2011-2012) were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS The median age of sub-Saharan African women presenting with breast cancer (age 54 in Botswana and South Africa) was younger than that of those in the US (age 61) (P < 0.001). Sub-Saharan women were more likely to present with advanced stage disease than US counterparts (64.7% in Botswana, 63.3% in South Africa, 13% in the US, P < 0.001). Triple negative disease was highest in Botswana (21.3%) compared to South Africa (11.4%) and the US (12.94%) (P < 0.001). Differences in receptor status at presentation among the three cohorts (P < 0.001) were not observed when the cohorts were stratified by ethnicity. Black/multiracial patients in Botswana and the US were the most likely subsets to present with the adverse characteristic of triple negative disease (21.3% and 23.2%, respectively). No correlation was found between HIV and receptor status in the Botswana (P = 0.513) or South African (P = 0.352) cohorts. CONCLUSIONS Here we report receptor status patterns at presentation in Botswana and South Africa. This study reveals important similarities and differences which may inform policy and provide context for future epidemiologic trends of breast cancer in low- and-middle-income countries particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumi Sinha
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Rohini Bhatia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Sarah Rayne
- Department of Surgery, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Hayer S, DiClemente K, Swartz A, Falakhe Z, Colvin CJ, Short SE, Harrison A. Embodiment, agency, unmet need: Young women's experiences in the use and non-use of contraception in Khayelitsha, South Africa. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:885-898. [PMID: 33600727 PMCID: PMC8371059 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1882528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Globally, high rates of unintended pregnancy occur despite widespread distribution of modern contraceptive methods, reflecting the complexity of individual contraceptive use. The concept of unmet need provides a framework for addressing the gap between women's desire to prevent pregnancy and the ability of health services to meet women's contraceptive needs. Through in-depth interviews in Khayelitsha, South Africa, we examine 14 young women's experiences with contraception, interrogating how and why reproductive intentions and outcomes often differ markedly. Three main themes were identified and explored. First, unintended pregnancies were common in our sample, despite high knowledge about contraceptive options and availability of multiple methods. Second, women's contraceptive preferences are strongly shaped by concerns with side effects and other embodied experiences, leading to pivotal moments of method-switching or cessation of contraceptive use. Third, using contraception provides participants with the potential for purposeful and self-directed action. These enactments of agency though, occur within intimate and familial relationships, where gendered expectations of the participants' choices ultimately shape both method preference and use. These findings demonstrate the need for an understanding of women's lives and narratives as the basis for understanding complex health behaviours such as contraceptive use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kira DiClemente
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University
- Population Studies and Training Center, Brown University
| | - Alison Swartz
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town
| | - Zipho Falakhe
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town
| | - Christopher J. Colvin
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University
| | - Susan E. Short
- Population Studies and Training Center, Brown University
- Department of Sociology, Brown University
| | - Abigail Harrison
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University
- Population Studies and Training Center, Brown University
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McTigue G, Swartz A, Brittain K, Rini Z, Colvin CJ, Harrison A, Myer L, Pellowski J. Contraceptive trajectories postpartum: A longitudinal qualitative study of women living with HIV in Cape Town, South Africa. Soc Sci Med 2022; 292:114555. [PMID: 34776286 PMCID: PMC8748387 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Supporting the ability of women living with HIV (WLWH) to avoid unintended pregnancy during the postpartum period decreases the number of new pediatric HIV infections, reduces pregnancy-related morbidity and mortality, and is a cost-effective strategy for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission. However, little is currently known about the contraceptive intentions and experiences of reinitiating family planning use among mothers living with HIV as they transition from pregnancy into postpartum. STUDY OBJECTIVES To (1) understand the contraceptive trajectories of women living with HIV during pregnancy and postpartum in Cape Town, South Africa, and (2) identify factors shaping differing contraceptive trajectories during the postpartum period. METHODS Thirty pregnant WLWH were interviewed during their eighth month of pregnancy and completed follow-up interviews at 6-8 weeks and 9-12 months postpartum (n = 81 total interviews). Interview topics included postpartum contraception intentions, contraceptive use, and experiences accessing family planning services. Trajectory analysis of contraceptive intentions was applied after initial thematic coding. RESULTS While nearly half of women interviewed during pregnancy expressed an intention to utilize a non-injectable contraceptive option after childbirth (e.g. implant, IUD, sterilization, oral contraceptive pills), all women interviewed at one year postpartum had received at least one injection. Three main contraceptive trajectories were identified. (1) realization of contraceptive intentions postpartum; (2) unrealized contraceptive intentions postpartum; and (3) change in contraceptive intention over time. Provider influence, coordination of services, and low contraceptive inventory were identified as potential factors shaping the contraceptive trajectories of participants enrolled in the study. CONCLUSION Disparities between contraceptive method intentions articulated by WLWH during pregnancy and methods attained postpartum suggest that significant barriers remain for women who are unsatisfied with injectable contraception. Failing to provide postpartum mothers living with HIV their intended family planning method undermines efforts to prevent unintended pregnancy, a key pillar of elimination of mother-to-child transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana McTigue
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S121-3, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Alison Swartz
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Cape Town School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kirsty Brittain
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Cape Town School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Zanele Rini
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Cape Town School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christopher J Colvin
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S121-3, Providence, RI, 02912, USA; Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Cape Town School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Cape Town, South Africa; Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Abigail Harrison
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S121-3, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Cape Town School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Pellowski
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S121-3, Providence, RI, 02912, USA; Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Cape Town School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Constant D, Lopes S, Grossman D. Could routine pregnancy self-testing facilitate earlier recognition of unintended pregnancy? A feasibility study among South African women. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 48:e60-e66. [PMID: 33972398 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2020-201017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We explored whether routine pregnancy self-testing is feasible and acceptable to women at risk of late recognition of pregnancy as a strategy to facilitate early entry into either antenatal or abortion care. METHODS A feasibility study among South African sexually active women not desiring pregnancy within 1 year, and not using long-acting or injectable contraceptives. At recruitment, we provided five free urine pregnancy tests for self-testing on the first day of each of the next 3 months. We sent monthly text reminders to use the tests with requests for no-cost text replies. Our main outcome was the proportion of participants self-testing within 5 days of the text reminder over three consecutive months. Other outcomes were ease of use of tests, preference for self-testing versus clinic testing, acceptability of routine self-testing (all binary responses followed by open response options) and response to text messages (four-point Likert scale). RESULTS We followed up 71/76 (93%) participants. Two confirmed new pregnancies at the first scheduled test and completed exit interviews, and 64/69 (93%) self-reported completing all three monthly tests. Self-testing was easy to do (66/71, 93%); advantages were convenience (21/71, 30%) and privacy (18/71, 25%), while the main disadvantage was no nurse present to advise (17/71, 24%). Most would recommend monthly testing (70/71, 99%). Text reminders were generally not bothersome (57/71, 80%); 35/69 (51%) participants replied with test results over all three months. CONCLUSION Providing free pregnancy tests to women at risk of late recognition of pregnancy is feasible to strengthen early confirmation of pregnancy status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Constant
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sofia Lopes
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Daniel Grossman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
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Schaaf M, Khosla R. Necessary but not sufficient: a scoping review of legal accountability for sexual and reproductive health in low-income and middle-income countries. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2021-006033. [PMID: 34321233 PMCID: PMC8319982 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This paper is a scoping review of the impact of legal accountability efforts for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), exploring the links between legal accountability strategies and changes in the desired SRHR outcomes. Methods We defined legal accountability as use of the judicial system following state failure to respect, protect or fulfil SRHR as enshrined in national law, as well as individuals’ or the state’s use of criminal law mechanisms to prevent unwanted behaviour and to provide remedy. We undertook a keyword search in PubMed, Scopus and LexisNexis and then consulted a group of experts to provide guidance regarding further peer-reviewed and grey literature, yielding a total of 191 articles. Results The majority of the empirical, peer-reviewed articles identified were regarding abortion law and abortion care availability, followed by violence against women. Most of these articles explore the gaps between law and practice. We identified seven key factors that shape the efficacy of legal accountability efforts, including the ways a law or court decision is formulated, access to courts, the (dis)advantages of criminal law in the given context, cultural norms, politics, state capacity and resources and the potential for further litigation. Many articles explained that use of the judiciary may be necessary to effect change and that the act of claiming rights can empower, but that legal avenues for change can be imperfect tools for justice. Conclusions Legal accountability can be effective as part of a broader, long-term strategy, with due attention to context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Schaaf
- Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rajat Khosla
- Research, Advocacy, and Policy, Amnesty International, London, UK
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Krogstad EA, Atujuna M, Montgomery ET, Minnis AM, Morroni C, Bekker LG. Perceptions matter: Narratives of contraceptive implant robbery in Cape Town, South Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2021; 23:383-396. [PMID: 32216584 PMCID: PMC7529647 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2020.1714739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Uptake of contraceptive implants has declined in South Africa since their introduction in 2014, with side effects and inadequate health provider training cited as primary contributors underlying a poor community perception of implants. In this paper we explore a theme that emerged unexpectedly during analysis of our research in Cape Town that may be an additional factor in this decline: narratives of women being assaulted by robbers who physically remove the implants for smoking as drugs. Narratives were described consistently across interviews and focus groups with youth (aged 18-24 years) and in interviews with health providers, with six participants (two young people, four health providers) sharing personal experiences of robbery. While there was a range of perspectives on whether narratives are based on real experiences or are myths, there was strong consensus that narratives of implant robbery may be influencing women's decisions around implant use in Cape Town. This is a potent example of how perceptions of new products can affect uptake and offers important lessons for implementers to reflect on in planning for rollout of other health technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A. Krogstad
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | - Chelsea Morroni
- Women’s Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Pascoe L. Negotiating HIV and pregnancy prevention and sexual pleasure amongst heterosexual men and women in South Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2021; 23:115-130. [PMID: 32124660 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2019.1696983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Heterosexual sex, foremost its gender-power dynamics, is embedded in and informed by the socio-historical context in which it occurs. While safer sexual communication skills are well documented as key to the success of sexual and reproductive health programming and education, communication skills about the positive aspects of sexuality such as sexual pleasure are often limited if not absent. Using data from in-depth qualitative interviews with men and women aged 26-39 from a diverse set of backgrounds in Cape Town, South Africa, this study examines the ways in which gender-power dynamics manifest in negotiations of HIV and pregnancy prevention and sexual pleasure in the intimate spaces of heterosex. Findings fall under three themes: 1) condom negotiation as a replacement for other aspects of sexual communication; 2) self-efficacy in negotiating prevention and negotiating one's own sexual pleasure; and 3) the integral role men play in heterosexual encounters in the facilitation of women's sexual autonomy and women's sexual pleasure. This study contributes to research not only examining the positive and more nuanced realities of heterosex in the South African context, but also argues for the need to integrate positive aspects of sexuality into sexual and reproductive health programming in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pascoe
- Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Erasmus MO, Knight L, Dutton J. Barriers to accessing maternal health care amongst pregnant adolescents in South Africa: a qualitative study. Int J Public Health 2020; 65:469-476. [PMID: 32388574 PMCID: PMC7275000 DOI: 10.1007/s00038-020-01374-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study explores the barriers to accessing antenatal care (ANC) services amongst pregnant adolescents within a particular community of South Africa. Methods An exploratory qualitative design was applied to examine the views of pregnant adolescents. In-depth interviews were conducted with pregnant adolescents at the Mitchells Plain Midwifery Obstetric Unit, as well as nursing staff working at the facility. Thematic analysis was then used and analysis was framed using the social–ecological model for health-seeking behaviour. Results This study found that barriers to adolescents seeking ANC often centered on a discourse of adolescent pregnancy being deviant, irresponsible, and shameful. Pregnant adolescents often absorbed these beliefs and were fearful of other’s reaction within their family, the community, at school, and within the ANC facilities. Conclusions Stigma regarding adolescent pregnancy participates in the perpetuation of a culture of non-disclosure and shame, which stands in the way of young pregnant people seeking the care they require. Such beliefs and attitudes need to be challenged at a community and national level. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00038-020-01374-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorised users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucia Knight
- School of Public Health, University of Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jessica Dutton
- School of Public Health, University of Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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12
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Harries J, Constant D, Wright V, Morroni C, Müller A, Colvin CJ. A multidimensional approach to inform family planning needs, preferences and behaviours amongst women in South Africa through body mapping. Reprod Health 2019; 16:159. [PMID: 31694648 PMCID: PMC6836666 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-019-0830-6] [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: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In recent decades there have been great improvements in the reproductive health of women in low- and middle-income countries and increases in the use of modern contraceptive methods. Nonetheless, many women are not able to access information, contraceptive technologies and services that could facilitate preventing unintended pregnancies and planning the number and timing of desired pregnancies. In South Africa, the contraceptive prevalence rate is 64.6%. However, this relatively high contraceptive prevalence rate masks problems with quality contraceptive service delivery, equitable access, and women’s ability to correctly and consistently, use contraceptive methods of their choice. This study set out to understand the specific family planning and contraceptive needs and behaviours of women of reproductive age in South Africa, through a lived experience, multisensory approach. Methods Participatory qualitative research methods were used including body mapping workshops amongst reproductive aged women recruited from urban and peri urban areas in the Western Cape South Africa. Data including body map images were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Results Women had limited biomedical knowledge of the female reproductive anatomy, conception, fertility and how contraceptives worked, compounded by a lack of contraceptive counseling and support from health care providers. Women’s preferences for different contraceptive methods were not based on a single, sensory or experiential factor. Rather, they were made up of a composite of sensory, physical, social and emotional experiences underscored by potential for threats to bodily harm. Conclusions This study highlighted the need to address communication and knowledge gaps around the female reproductive anatomy, different contraceptive methods and how contraception works to prevent a pregnancy. Women, including younger women, identified sexual and reproductive health knowledge gaps themselves and identified these gaps as important factors that influenced uptake and effective contraceptive use. These knowledge gaps were overwhelmingly linked to poor or absent communication and counseling provided by health care providers. Body mapping techniques could be used in education and communication strategies around sexual and reproductive health programmes in diverse settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Harries
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Deborah Constant
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Vanessa Wright
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Chelsea Morroni
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alex Müller
- Gender Health and Justice Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christopher J Colvin
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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13
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Harries J, Constant D. Providing safe abortion services: Experiences and perspectives of providers in South Africa. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2019; 62:79-89. [PMID: 31279763 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2019.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite abortion being legally available on request up to and including the gestational age of 12 weeks in South Africa, barriers to access remain. Barriers include provider opposition to abortion and a shortage of trained and willing providers, which has implications for access to safe abortion services. Exploring the factors that determine providers' levels of involvement in abortion services can facilitate improvements in service provision. Providers' conceptualizations of abortion are influenced by numerous factors, including moral and religious views, in which abortion is perceived by some as a sin, whereas others view access to safe abortions as an important component of a woman's right to reproductive autonomy and choice. Barriers to service provision include limited abortion and values clarification training and misinterpretation of conscientious objection. Providers have difficulties with the emotional and visual impact of second trimester abortions. There is an urgent need to address provider shortage, and abortion education and training need to be included in medical and nursing curricula to ensure sustaining abortion services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Harries
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Deborah Constant
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
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Macleod CI, Feltham-King T. Young pregnant women and public health: introducing a critical reparative justice/care approach using South African case studies. CRITICAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/09581596.2019.1573313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Catriona Ida Macleod
- Critical Studies in Sexualities and Reproduction, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| | - Tracey Feltham-King
- Department of Psychology, University of Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
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Galárraga O, Harries J, Maughan-Brown B, Cooper D, Short SE, Lurie MN, Harrison A. The Empower Nudge lottery to increase dual protection use: a proof-of-concept randomised pilot trial in South Africa. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH MATTERS 2018; 26:1510701. [PMID: 30212281 PMCID: PMC6242330 DOI: 10.1080/09688080.2018.1510701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study is to measure the preliminary efficacy of a pilot intervention, grounded in behavioural economics, increasing adherence of dual protection (simultaneous use of effective modern contraception and a barrier method, such as a condom) to protect against HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancy. Between 2015 and 2016, 100 women aged 18-40 years, seeking post-abortion care in Cape Town, South Africa were recruited to Empower Nudge, a randomised controlled trial to test a lottery incentive intervention designed to increase dual protection. At baseline, the mean age of participants was 27 years; 82% of them were from South Africa; 58% self-identified as Black African; average education completed was 11.7 years. At three months, assignment to the lottery intervention was associated with higher odds of returning for study visits (OR: 6.0; 95%CI: 2.45 to 14.7, p < 0.01), higher condom use (OR: 4.5; 95%CI: 1.43 to 14.1; p < 0.05), and higher use of dual protection (OR: 3.16; 95%CI: 1.01 to 9.9; p < 0.05). Only 60% of the study population returned after three months and only 38% returned after six months. Women who receive post-abortion care represent a neglected population with an urgent need for HIV and pregnancy prevention. Dual protection is a critically important strategy for this population. Lottery-based behavioural economics strategies may offer possible ways to increase dual protection use in this population. Further research with larger samples, longer exposure time, and more sites is needed to establish fully powered efficacy of lottery incentives for dual protection; using objective verification for monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Galárraga
- a Associate Professor, Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA; Faculty Associate, Population Studies and Training Center (PSTC), Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
| | - Jane Harries
- b Director, Women's Health Research Unit; and Associate Professor, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Brendan Maughan-Brown
- c Senior Research Officer, Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Diane Cooper
- d Professor, School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa; Adjunct Faculty Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Susan E Short
- e Director, Population Studies and Training Center (PSTC); and Professor, Department of Sociology, Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
| | - Mark N Lurie
- f Faculty Associate, Population Studies and Training Center (PSTC) , Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
- g Associate Professor, Department of Epidemiology , Brown University School of Public Health , Providence , RI , USA
| | - Abigail Harrison
- f Faculty Associate, Population Studies and Training Center (PSTC) , Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
- h Associate Professor, Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences , Brown University School of Public Health , Providence , RI , USA
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