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Lanier Y, Lui N, Zhong J, Rivera-Cash D, Cornelius T, Stewart JM. Attitudes Toward the Uptake of Combination HIV Prevention Methods Among Young Black and Latino Heterosexual Couples Living in New York City: A Qualitative Study. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2024; 35:281-293. [PMID: 38546533 PMCID: PMC11216850 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Couple-based HIV interventions that increase uptake of two or more effective biomedical HIV prevention methods may be a promising HIV prevention strategy for young Black and Latino heterosexual couples. We conducted in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews with 23 Black and Latino adolescent and young adult heterosexual couples that explored their attitudes toward using combination HIV prevention methods (CHPMs). A qualitative hybrid thematic analysis approach was used to identify key themes. Themes included: (a) attitudes that encouraged uptake-CHPMs increased assurance of safety against HIV/sexually transmitted infections and (b) attitudes that impeded uptake-CHPMs are too much to do and are not appropriate for serious relationships. Although Black and Latino adolescents and young adults may recognize the combined protective benefits of using multiple HIV prevention methods, personal and relational considerations play an instrumental role in uptake of CHPMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yzette Lanier
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nicole Lui
- Department of Psychology, Hofstra University, Long Island, New York, USA
| | - Jie Zhong
- School of Nursing, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dennis Rivera-Cash
- Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Talea Cornelius
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer M. Stewart
- Founder at Restore Development and Consulting, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania, USA
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Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Coleman Lewis J, MacCarthy S, Linnemayr S. Assessing behavioral economic biases among young adults who have increased likelihood of acquiring HIV: a mixed methods study in Baltimore, Maryland. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:25. [PMID: 37150823 PMCID: PMC10165802 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00521-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Behavioral economic (BE) biases have been studied in the context of numerous health conditions, yet are understudied in the field of HIV prevention. This aim of this study was to quantify the prevalence of four common BE biases-present bias, information salience, overoptimism, and loss aversion-relating to condom use and HIV testing in economically-vulnerable young adults who had increased likelihood of acquiring HIV. We also qualitatively examined participants' perceptions of these biases. METHODS 43 participants were enrolled in the study. Data were collected via interviews using a quantitative survey instrument embedded with qualitative questions to characterize responses. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using descriptive statistics and deductive-inductive content analyses. RESULTS 56% of participants were present-biased, disproportionately discounting future rewards for smaller immediate rewards. 51% stated they were more likely to spend than save given financial need. Present-bias relating to condom use was lower with 28% reporting they would engage in condomless sex rather than wait one day to access condoms. Most participants (72%) were willing to wait for condom-supported sex given the risk. Only 35% knew someone living with HIV, but 67% knew someone who had taken an HIV test, and 74% said they often think about preventing HIV (e.g., high salience). Yet, 47% reported optimistically planning for condom use, HIV discussions with partners, or testing but failing to stick to their decision. Most (98%) were also averse (b = 9.4, SD ±.9) to losing their HIV-negative status. Qualitative reasons for sub-optimal condom or testing choices were having already waited to find a sex partner, feeling awkward, having fear, or not remembering one's plan in the moment. Optimal decisions were attributed qualitatively to self-protective thoughts, establishing routine care, standing on one's own, and thinking of someone adversely impacted by HIV. 44% of participants preferred delayed monetary awards (e.g., future-biased), attributed qualitatively to fears of spending immediate money unwisely or needing time to plan. CONCLUSION Mixed methods BE assessments may be a valuable tool in understanding factors contributing to optimal and sub-optimal HIV prevention decisions. Future HIV prevention interventions may benefit from integrating savings products, loss framing, commitment contracts, cues, or incentives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Department of Health Behavior, Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, 310 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Jessica Coleman Lewis
- Department of International Health, Social and Behavioral Interventions Program, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Sarah MacCarthy
- Department of Health Behavior, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, 1665 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Chagoma N, Kanyenda T, Pindiwe B, Nyika H, Nyazema L, Stover J, Resar D, Shoko N, Jenkins S, Katanda Y, Xaba S, Mugurungi O. Applying mathematical modelling to estimate the impact of COVID-19-related VMMC service disruptions on new HIV infections in Zimbabwe. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:113. [PMID: 36823550 PMCID: PMC9948776 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08081-7] [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: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has overwhelmed health systems with knock on effects on diagnosis, treatment, and care. To mitigate the impact, the government of Zimbabwe enforced a strict lockdown beginning 30 March 2020 which ran intermittently until early 2021. In this period, the Ministry of Health and Childcare strategically prioritized delivery of services leading to partial and full suspension of services considered non-essential, including HIV prevention. As a result, Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) services were disrupted leading to an 80% decline in circumcisions conducted in 2020. Given the efficacy of VMMC, we quantified the potential effects of VMMC service disruption on new HIV infections in Zimbabwe. METHODS We applied the GOALS model to evaluate the impact of COVID-19-related disruptions on reducing new HIV infections over 30-years. GOALS is an HIV simulation model that estimates number of new HIV infections based on sexual behaviours of population groups. The model is parameterized based on national surveys and HIV program data. We hypothesized three coverage scenarios by 2030: scenario I - pre-COVID trajectory: 80% VMMC coverage; Scenario II - marginal COVID-19 impact: 60% VMMC coverage, and scenario III - severe COVID-19 impact: 45% VMMC coverage. VMMC coverage between 2020 and 2030 was linearly interpolated to attain the estimated coverage and then held constant from 2030 to 2050, and discounted outcomes at 3%. RESULTS Compared to the baseline scenario I, in scenario II, we estimated that the disruption of VMMC services would generate an average of 200 (176-224) additional new infections per year and 7,200 new HIV infections over the next 30 years. For scenario III, we estimated an average of 413 (389-437) additional new HIV infections per year and 15,000 new HIV infections over the next 30 years. The disruption of VMMC services could generate additional future HIV treatment costs ranging from $27 million to $55 million dollars across scenarios II and III, respectively. CONCLUSION COVID-19 disruptions destabilized delivery of VMMC services which could contribute to an additional 7,200 new infections over the next 30 years. Unless mitigated, these disruptions could derail the national goals of reducing new infections by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Newton Chagoma
- grid.452345.10000 0004 4660 2031Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, USA
| | - Tiwonge Kanyenda
- grid.452345.10000 0004 4660 2031Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, USA
| | | | - Howard Nyika
- grid.415818.1Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Lawrence Nyazema
- grid.415818.1Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - John Stover
- grid.475068.80000 0004 8349 9627Avenir Health, Glastonbury, USA
| | - Danielle Resar
- grid.452345.10000 0004 4660 2031Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, USA
| | - Natsai Shoko
- grid.452345.10000 0004 4660 2031Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, USA
| | - Sarah Jenkins
- grid.452345.10000 0004 4660 2031Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, USA
| | | | | | - Owen Mugurungi
- grid.415818.1Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Prevalence of HIV and associated risk factors among street-connected children in Mwanza city. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271042. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
While on the street, HIV infection among street-connected children is a challenging issue due to the nature of transmission, distribution, and prevention. Lack of proper care and protection, insufficient knowledge of the danger of acquiring HIV, and insufficient or absence of health facilities serving street-connected children have left this vulnerable group engaging in high-risk behaviors exposing them to acquiring HIV. This cross-sectional study aimed at estimating the prevalence of HIV infection and its associated risk factors among street-connected children aged between 10 to17 years in Mwanza City. The study was granted ethical clearance all permissions and restrictions to work with street-connected children were adhered to. A total of 131 participants aged 10–17 years were recruited for interviews and HIV testing. Exact logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with having HIV. A total of 111 (85.0%) boys and 20 (15.0%) girls responded to the questionnaire, with the median age being 15years. The overall HIV prevalence was 12.2% (16/131). Street-children using condoms were less likely to be affected by HIV compared to those who were not using (OR = 0.24; 95% CI 0.04–0.97). Females had higher odds of HIV infection compared to males (OR = 5.24; 95% CI of 1.24–24.65). The study shows a significantly higher prevalence of HIV among street-connected children as compared to the general population. Therefore, there should be tailored reproductive and sexual health programs, with the provision of protective materials like condoms.
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Garcia-Cremades M, Hendrix CW, Jayachandran P, Strydom N, Jarlsberg L, Grant R, Celum CL, Martin M, Baeten JM, Marrazzo J, Anderson P, Choopanya K, Vanichseni S, Glidden DV, Savic RM. Modeling the Probability of HIV Infection over Time in High-Risk Seronegative Participants Receiving Placebo in Five Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Trials: A Patient-Level Pooled Analysis. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14091801. [PMID: 36145549 PMCID: PMC9504389 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization recommends pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at substantial risk of HIV infection. The aim of this analysis is to quantify the individual risk of HIV infection over time, using a large database of high-risk individuals (n = 5583). We used data from placebo recipients in five phase III PrEP trials: iPrEx, conducted in men who have sex with men and transgender women; VOICE, conducted in young women at high sexual risk; Partners PrEP, conducted in HIV serodiscordant heterosexual couples; TDF2, conducted in high-risk heterosexual men and women; and BTS, conducted in persons who inject drugs. The probability of HIV infection over time was estimated using NONMEM7.4. We identified predictors of HIV risk and found a substantial difference in the risk of infection among and within trial populations, with each study including a mix of low, moderate, and high-risk individuals (p < 0.05). Persons who were female at birth were at a higher risk of HIV infection than people who were male at birth. Final models were integrated in a tool that can assess person-specific risk and simulate cumulative HIV risk over time. These models can be used to optimize future PrEP clinical trials by identifying potential participants at highest risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Garcia-Cremades
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Craig W. Hendrix
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Priya Jayachandran
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Natasha Strydom
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Leah Jarlsberg
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Robert Grant
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Connie L. Celum
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Michael Martin
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health—US CDC Collaboration, Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Jeanne Marrazzo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Peter Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Denver, CO 80045, USA
| | | | | | - David V. Glidden
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Radojka M. Savic
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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6
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Valera P, Ali ZS, Cunningham D, McLaughlin C, Acevedo S. Exploring Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Knowledge in Incarcerated Men. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221107192. [PMID: 35796098 PMCID: PMC9274424 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221107192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
People who are incarcerated have a disproportionately high risk of contracting
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). While there is no known cure for HIV, there
are biomedical approaches that can successfully manage the virus and prevent its
transmission. A total of 267 men who are incarcerated completed a
cross-sectional survey focused on cancer health, HIV prevention, and mental
health in three state prisons. The mean age was 39 years. The majority had an
annual income of US$10,000 or less, self-identified as heterosexual, not
married, had children, did not have any military status, and identified as
African American/Black. Less than 4% indicated that they had heard about
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), and only 3% had heard of Post-Exposure
Prophylaxis (PEP). PrEP and PEP effectively prevent HIV infection, but little
attention has focused on increasing the knowledge and awareness of these HIV
prevention interventions in the incarcerated population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Valera
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Department of Urban-Global Public Health, Newark, NJ, USA.,The Community Health Justice Lab, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Zaire S Ali
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Department of Urban-Global Public Health, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Diamond Cunningham
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Department of Urban-Global Public Health, Newark, NJ, USA
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Carveth-Johnson T, Dunin De Skrzynno S, Wynn A, Moshashane N, Ramontshonyana K, Lebelonyane R, Mussa A, Ramogola-Masire D, Klausner J, Morroni C. Integrating Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing and Treatment With Routine HIV Care in Gaborone, Botswana. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:887-894. [PMID: 34174039 PMCID: PMC8505143 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing is not routinely offered in many countries, and management is symptoms based. Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) are associated with an increased risk of HIV transmission. We assess the feasibility and acceptability of integrating CT/NG testing into routine HIV care in Botswana, as well as the prevalence and correlates of CT/NG infections. METHOD A prospective study was conducted at an HIV clinic in Gaborone between February and October 2019. Eligibility criteria included the following: ≥18 years, HIV infected, and not treated for CT/NG in the past month. Participants self-collected samples and responded to a questionnaire on sociodemographic and health characteristics. Samples were processed using the GeneXpert. Patients were offered same-day results in person or by telephone. Those who tested positive were treated. RESULTS Of 806 patients informed of the study, 526 (65%) expressed interest and 451 (60%) were enrolled. The median age was 48 years, and 66% were women. All participants provided self-collected samples, were successfully tested, and received results. Almost all reported sample self-collection was easy. The prevalence of CT/NG was 5%. Most participants (73%) with a positive result were asymptomatic. Among infected, 20 (91%) received same-day results and all were treated. Younger age, female sex, and pain during sex were associated with having CT/NG. CONCLUSIONS Integrating STI testing into routine HIV care was feasible, self-collecting specimens was highly acceptable, but uptake of testing was low. Where blanket screening to the entire clinic population may not be feasible because of resource limitation, one strategy could be to prioritize sexually active patients, younger patients, and women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adriane Wynn
- From the Botswana-UPenn Partnership (BUP), Gaborone, Botswana
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Neo Moshashane
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership (BHP), Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | | | - Aamirah Mussa
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership (BHP), Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Jeffrey Klausner
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Chelsea Morroni
- From the Botswana-UPenn Partnership (BUP), Gaborone, Botswana
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership (BHP), Gaborone, Botswana
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Circumcision as an Intervening Strategy against HIV Acquisition in the Male Genital Tract. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10070806. [PMID: 34201976 PMCID: PMC8308621 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Unsafe sex with HIV-infected individuals remains a major route for HIV transmission, and protective strategies, such as the distribution of free condoms and pre-or post-prophylaxis medication, have failed to control the spread of HIV, particularly in resource-limited settings and high HIV prevalence areas. An additional key strategy for HIV prevention is voluntary male circumcision (MC). International health organizations (e.g., the World Health Organization, UNAIDS) have recommended this strategy on a larger scale, however, there is a general lack of public understanding about how MC effectively protects against HIV infection. This review aims to discuss the acquisition of HIV through the male genital tract and explain how and why circumcised men are more protected from HIV infection during sexual activity than uncircumcised men who are at higher risk of HIV acquisition.
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Reducing HIV Risk Behaviors Among Black Women Living With and Without HIV/AIDS in the U.S.: A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:732-747. [PMID: 32918639 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03029-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review provides an examination of the status of HIV/AIDS prevention interventions for Black, heterosexual women in the U.S. from 2012 to 2019. Using PRISMA guidelines, 28 interventions were identified. Over half of the interventions were: conducted in the southern region of the U.S.; evaluated using a randomized controlled trial; focused on adults; used a group-based intervention delivery; were behaviorally focused and theoretically driven. None included biomedical strategies of PrEP, nPEP, and TasP. Few interventions included adolescent or aging Black women; none included their sex/romantic partners. Future studies dedicated to addressing the specific needs of subpopulations of Black, heterosexual women may provide opportunities to expand and/or tailor current and future HIV/AIDS prevention interventions, including offering participants with options to choose which, and the level of involvement, of their sex/romantic partner(s) in their sexual health decision-making. While strides to improve HIV prevention efforts with Black, heterosexual women have occurred, more is needed.
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Imran S, Ahmadi S, Kerman K. Electrochemical Biosensors for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 and Other Viruses. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:174. [PMID: 33578979 PMCID: PMC7916687 DOI: 10.3390/mi12020174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The last few decades have been plagued by viral outbreaks that present some of the biggest challenges to public safety. The current coronavirus (COVID-19) disease pandemic has exponentiated these concerns. Increased research on diagnostic tools is currently being implemented in order to assist with rapid identification of the virus, as mass diagnosis and containment is the best way to prevent the outbreak of the virus. Accordingly, there is a growing urgency to establish a point-of-care device for the rapid detection of coronavirus to prevent subsequent spread. This device needs to be sensitive, selective, and exhibit rapid diagnostic capabilities. Electrochemical biosensors have demonstrated these traits and, hence, serve as promising candidates for the detection of viruses. This review summarizes the designs and features of electrochemical biosensors developed for some past and current pandemic or epidemic viruses, including influenza, HIV, Ebola, and Zika. Alongside the design, this review also discusses the detection principles, fabrication techniques, and applications of the biosensors. Finally, research and perspective of biosensors as potential detection tools for the rapid identification of SARS-CoV-2 is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saim Imran
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4, Canada; (S.I.); (S.A.)
| | - Soha Ahmadi
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4, Canada; (S.I.); (S.A.)
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Kagan Kerman
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4, Canada; (S.I.); (S.A.)
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Kruger W, Lebesa N, Lephalo K, Mahlangu D, Mkhosana M, Molise M, Segopa P, Joubert G. HIV-prevention measures on a university campus in South Africa - perceptions, practices and needs of undergraduate medical students. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2020; 19:156-163. [PMID: 32780679 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2020.1775663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background: Young adults such as university students are considered to be a key population for HIV-prevention efforts. This study aimed to determine the perceptions, practices and needs of undergraduate medical students regarding HIV-prevention measures available on campus. Methods: The research design was descriptive cross-sectional. Data were collected using an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire distributed to all 745 undergraduate medical students in the School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Free State, South Africa, of whom 470 responded (63.1%). Results: Almost half (45.5%) of all respondents across the five academic years had received information about available HIV-prevention measures on campus. Most reported that information had been received during lectures (59.7%) and only 24.2% from the local health clinic on campus. The findings also revealed that 14.2% of students had used at least one prevention measure in the past, while the majority of students (70.2%) used abstinence as an HIV-prevention measure. A large percentage of all the students (47.6%) had been tested for HIV before the start of the study. Two-thirds (67%) of students indicated that the current HIV-prevention services on campus were not sufficient. Conclusion: Medical students received HIV-prevention information as part of their curriculum but this was deemed not to be sufficient. This study suggests that tertiary education institutions should evaluate the effectiveness of strategies currently in place for the distribution and awareness of HIV-prevention measures and sexual health issues affecting students, using a student-centred approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willem Kruger
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Neo Lebesa
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Katlego Lephalo
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Dumenzile Mahlangu
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Mpumelelo Mkhosana
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Motlhoboga Molise
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Pretty Segopa
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Gina Joubert
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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12
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Whiteley L, Olsen E, Mena L, Haubrick K, Craker L, Hershkowitz D, Brown LK. A Mobile Gaming Intervention for Persons on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis: Protocol for Intervention Development and Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e18640. [PMID: 32924954 PMCID: PMC7522735 DOI: 10.2196/18640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In the United States, young minority men who have sex with men (MSM) are the most likely to become infected with HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an efficacious and promising prevention strategy. However, PrEP’s safety and effectiveness can be greatly compromised by suboptimal adherence to treatment. To maximize the positive impact of PrEP, it is necessary to combine its prescription with cost-effective behavioral interventions that promote adherence and decrease HIV risk behaviors. In this project, we developed a theoretically informed app/gaming intervention to engage young MSM in learning information, practicing behaviors, and improving motivation for HIV preventative behaviors and PrEP adherence. Objective The goal of this project was to develop and test a cutting-edge, engaging, and entertaining app/gaming intervention for improving adherence to PrEP and building HIV prevention knowledge, skills, and behavior. Methods This study was conducted in two phases. In the developmental phase, we conducted qualitative interviews with young MSM (n=20) to guide the development of the gaming intervention. In the randomized controlled trial, we tested the preliminary efficacy of the gaming intervention compared to a comparison condition among young MSM. Subjects were recruited from the University of Mississippi Medical Center HIV/STI testing clinics (n=60). Results Institutional review board approval was received in February 2015. Research activities began in June 2015 and are still ongoing. Conclusions This app/gaming intervention aimed to improve PrEP adherence and HIV preventative behaviors in young MSM. Engaging young MSM in learning information, practicing behaviors, and improving motivation for increased adherence to PrEP has the potential to decrease HIV seroconversion. It is important to develop interventions that are enjoyable, engaging, and easily incorporated into clinical settings. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov RCT02611362; https://tinyurl.com/y65gkuwr International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/18640
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Whiteley
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Elizabeth Olsen
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Leandro Mena
- Department of Population Health Science, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Kayla Haubrick
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Lacey Craker
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Dylan Hershkowitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Larry K Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
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13
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Shi C, Li M, Dushoff J. Traditional Male Circumcision is Associated with Sexual Risk Behaviors in Sub-Saharan Countries Prioritized for Male Circumcision. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:951-959. [PMID: 30955178 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02473-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
To understand the sexual risk behavior of men with traditional male circumcision and medical male circumcision in the context of the World Health Organization's (WHO) campaign for voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) scale-up, we investigated ten countries prioritized for the scale-up from the Demographic and Health Surveys. Male respondents aged 15-49 were selected. Ordinal regression was used to analyze the relationship between three sexual risk behaviors-condom use with non-cohabiting partners, number of non-cohabiting partners, and partner type-and circumcision status (traditionally circumcised before and after the VMMC scale-up, medically circumcised before and after the scale-up, and not circumcised), while controlling for social demographic covariates. We found evidence that some sexual risky behavior, specifically lower condom use and higher number of sexual partners, was associated with traditional circumcision. This finding suggests that messages about the protective effect of male circumcision may not have reached men with traditional circumcision. We suggest that WHO's VMMC campaign should include communities where traditional male circumcision is popular. We looked for, but did not find, evidence of differences between groups circumcised at different times, which could have indicated sexual risk compensation.
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14
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Dallal Bashi YH, McCoy CF, Murphy DJ, Boyd P, Spence P, Kleinbeck K, Devlin B, Malcolm RK. Towards a dapivirine and levonorgestrel multipurpose vaginal ring: Investigations into the reaction between levonorgestrel and addition-cure silicone elastomers. Int J Pharm 2019; 569:118574. [PMID: 31352053 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.118574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
With a dapivirine-releasing vaginal ring having successfully completed late-stage clinical testing for HIV prevention and currently undergoing regulatory review, there is now growing interest in next-generation multipurpose prevention technologies that seek to combine antiretroviral and contraceptive drugs within a single product. Here, we focus on ongoing efforts to develop a silicone elastomer vaginal ring releasing both dapivirine and levonorgestrel. Specifically, we evaluate various strategies aimed at both better understanding and reducing the tendency of levonorgestrel to bind with the elastomer, including: (i) formulation and post-manufacturing strategies aimed at reducing the extent of levonorgestrel reaction with addition-cure silicone elastomers; (ii) evaluation of a simple silicone system to model the complex elastomer; (iii) use of model compounds representing the enone and ethinyl moieties of levonorgestrel to probe the mode of addition of levonorgestrel to addition-cure silicone elastomers; and (iv) solution and solid-state 13C NMR analysis to probe the structural features of the levonorgestrel-silicone system. The results demonstrate that both the enone and ethinyl groups within levonorgestrel undergo hydrosilylation reactions with the hydrosiloxane groups in the silicone elastomer leading to covalent binding. The results also highlight potential strategies for further optimising the dapivirine + levonorgestrel silicone vaginal ring formulation to ensure that the levonorgestrel is available for release.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Clare F McCoy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Patrick Spence
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Kyle Kleinbeck
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Bríd Devlin
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - R Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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Design of Poly(lactic- co-glycolic Acid) (PLGA) Nanoparticles for Vaginal Co-Delivery of Griffithsin and Dapivirine and Their Synergistic Effect for HIV Prophylaxis. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11040184. [PMID: 30995761 PMCID: PMC6523646 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11040184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-acting topical products for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) that combine antiretrovirals (ARVs) inhibiting initial stages of infection are highly promising for prevention of HIV sexual transmission. We fabricated core-shell poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles, loaded with two potent ARVs, griffithsin (GRFT) and dapivirine (DPV), having different physicochemical properties and specifically targeting the fusion and reverse transcription steps of HIV replication, as a potential long-acting microbicide product. The nanoparticles were evaluated for particle size and zeta potential, drug release, cytotoxicity, cellular uptake and in vitro bioactivity. PLGA nanoparticles, with diameter around 180–200 nm, successfully encapsulated GRFT (45% of initially added) and DPV (70%). Both drugs showed a biphasic release with initial burst phase followed by a sustained release phase. GRFT and DPV nanoparticles were non-toxic and maintained bioactivity (IC50 values of 0.5 nM and 4.7 nM, respectively) in a cell-based assay. The combination of drugs in both unformulated and encapsulated in nanoparticles showed strong synergistic drug activity at 1:1 ratio of IC50 values. This is the first study to co-deliver a protein (GRFT) and a hydrophobic small molecule (DPV) in PLGA nanoparticles as microbicides. Our findings demonstrate that the combination of GRFT and DPV in nanoparticles is highly potent and possess properties critical to the design of a sustained release microbicide.
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16
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Whiteley L, Mena L, Craker LK, Healy MG, Brown LK. Creating a Theoretically Grounded Gaming App to Increase Adherence to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis: Lessons From the Development of the Viral Combat Mobile Phone Game. JMIR Serious Games 2019; 7:e11861. [PMID: 30916652 PMCID: PMC6456850 DOI: 10.2196/11861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the United States, young minority men who have sex with men (MSM) are most likely to become infected with HIV. The use of antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV infection (pre-exposure prophylaxis, PrEP) is an efficacious and promising prevention strategy. There have been significant advances regarding PrEP, including the definitive demonstration that PrEP reduces HIV acquisition and the development of clinical prescribing guidelines. Despite these promising events, the practical implementation of PrEP can be challenging. Data show that PrEP’s safety and effectiveness could be greatly compromised by suboptimal adherence to treatment, and there is concern about the potential for an increase in HIV risk behavior among PrEP users. Due to these challenges, the prescribing of PrEP should be accompanied by behavioral interventions to promote adherence. Objective This study aimed to develop an immersive, action-oriented iPhone gaming intervention to improve motivation for adherence to PrEP. Methods Game development was guided by social learning theory, taking into consideration the perspectives of young adult MSM who are taking PrEP. A total of 20 young men who have sex with men (YMSM; aged 18-35 years) were recruited from a sexually transmitted infection (STI), HIV testing, and PrEP care clinic in Jackson, Mississippi, between October 2016 and June 2017. They participated in qualitative interviews guided by the information-motivation-behavioral skills (IMB) model of behavior change. The mean age of participants was 26 years, and all the participants identified as male. Acceptability of the game was assessed with the Client Service Questionnaire and session evaluation form. Results A number of themes emerged that informed game development. YMSM taking PrEP desired informational game content that included new and comprehensive details about the effectiveness of PrEP, details about PrEP as it relates to doctors’ visits, and general information about STIs other than HIV. Motivational themes that emerged were the desire for enhancement of future orientation; reinforcement of positive influences from partners, parents, and friends; collaboration with health care providers; decreasing stigma; and a focus on personal relevance of PrEP-related medical care. Behavioral skills themes centered around self-efficacy and strategies for adherence to PrEP and self-care. Conclusions We utilized youth feedback, IMB, and agile software development to create a multilevel, immersive, action-oriented iPhone gaming intervention to improve motivation for adherence to PrEP. There is a dearth of gaming interventions for persons on PrEP. This study is a significant step in working toward the development and testing of an iPhone gaming intervention to decrease HIV risk and promote adherence to PrEP for YMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Whiteley
- Department of Psychiatry, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Leandro Mena
- University of Mississippi Medical Center, University of Mississippi, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Lacey K Craker
- Young Adult Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Meredith Garver Healy
- Young Adult Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Larry K Brown
- Department of Psychiatry, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Young Adult Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
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Rinaldi G, Kiadaliri AA, Haghparast-Bidgoli H. Cost effectiveness of HIV and sexual reproductive health interventions targeting sex workers: a systematic review. COST EFFECTIVENESS AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION 2018; 16:63. [PMID: 30524207 PMCID: PMC6278021 DOI: 10.1186/s12962-018-0165-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sex workers have high incidences of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Although, interventions targeting sex workers have shown to be effective, evidence on which strategies are most cost-effective is limited. This study aims to systematically review evidence on the cost-effectiveness of sexual health interventions for sex workers on a global level. It also evaluates the quality of available evidence and summarizes the drivers of cost effectiveness. Methods A search of published articles until May 2018 was conducted. A search strategy consisted of key words, MeSH terms and other free text terms related to economic evaluation, sex workers and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) was developed to conduct literature search on Medline, Web of Science, Econlit and the NHS Economic Evaluation Database. The quality of reporting the evidence was evaluated using the CHEERS checklist and drivers of cost-effectiveness were reported. Results Overall, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority of the studies were based in middle-income countries and only three in low-income settings. Most of the studies were conducted in Asia and only a handful in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. The reviewed studies mainly evaluated the integrated interventions, i.e. interventions consisted a combination of biomedical, structural or behavioural components. All interventions, except for one, were highly cost-effective. The reporting quality of the evidence was relatively good. The strongest drivers of cost-effectiveness, reported in the studies, were HIV prevalence, number of partners per sex worker and commodity costs. Furthermore, interventions integrated into existing health programs were shown to be most cost-effective. Conclusion This review found that there is limited economic evidence on HIV and SRH interventions targeting sex workers. The available evidence indicates that the majority of the HIV and SRH interventions targeting sex workers are highly cost-effective, however, more effort should be devoted to improving the quality of conducting and reporting cost-effectiveness evidence for these interventions to make them usable in policy making. This review identified potential factors that affect the cost-effectiveness and can provide useful information for policy makers when designing and implementing such interventions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12962-018-0165-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aliasghar A Kiadaliri
- 2Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences, Orthopaedics, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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18
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Giovenco D, Kuo C, Underhill K, Hoare J, Operario D. "The Time Has Arrived": Perceptions of Behavioral Adjustments in the Context of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Availability Among Adolescents in South Africa. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2018; 30:463-473. [PMID: 30966763 PMCID: PMC6501564 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2018.30.6.463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) holds enormous potential to reduce HIV acquisition in key populations globally. We conducted an exploratory PrEP acceptability study using qualitative methodology among adolescents and service providers in the Western Cape Province of South Africa to inform future PrEP implementation challenges in South Africa and other high-prevalence African countries. Semistructured focus groups and in-depth individual interviews were conducted among 57 adolescents 16-17 years of age, living with and without HIV, and 25 clinical service providers. Adolescents and service providers expressed concerns that the availability of PrEP would lead to sexual disinhibition and a reduction in condom use among adolescents. Unexpected positive impacts included predictions that PrEP might encourage disclosure in serodiscordant partnerships and help normalize pill-taking in the community. Careful age, gender, and developmentally appropriate messaging will be needed to ensure adolescents understand partial efficacy and view PrEP as a component of combination prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Giovenco
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Caroline Kuo
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences and the Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Jacqueline Hoare
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health
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Chimbindi N, Mthiyane N, Birdthistle I, Floyd S, McGrath N, Pillay D, Seeley J, Zuma T, Dreyer J, Gareta D, Mutevedzi T, Fenty J, Herbst K, Smit T, Baisley K, Shahmanesh M. Persistently high incidence of HIV and poor service uptake in adolescent girls and young women in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa prior to DREAMS. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203193. [PMID: 30325932 PMCID: PMC6191091 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) bear the brunt of the HIV epidemic in South Africa. 'DREAMS' aims to reduce HIV incidence through multi-level combination prevention. We describe HIV incidence and uptake of HIV and sexual reproductive health (SRH) by AGYW in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), prior to DREAMS. METHODS Longitudinal and cross-sectional analysis of women (15-24 year old) in a population-based HIV incidence cohort within a demographic surveillance site in KZN. Observation time for HIV incidence was person-years at risk while resident. "Current use of contraceptives" and "having an HIV test in the past 12 months" was compared between 2011 and 2015. RESULTS In 2015, HIV prevalence was 11.0% and 34.1% and HIV incidence (2011-2015) was 4.54% (95%CI:3.89-5.30) and 7.45% (95%CI:6.51-8.51) per year in 15-19 and 20-24 year olds respectively, with no significant decline compared to 2006-2010. In 2015, 90.7% of 20-24-year-olds were unemployed, 36.4% and 51.7% of 15-19 and 20-24 year olds reported recent migration; 20.9% and 72.6% of 15-19 and 20-24 year olds had ever been pregnant. In 2015, less than 50% reported condom-use at last sex, 15.0% of 15-19 year olds and 48.9% of 20-24 year olds were currently using contraception and 32.0% and 66.7% of 15-19 and 20-24 year olds had tested for HIV in the past 12 months. There had been no improvement compared to 2011. Factors associated with AGYW testing for HIV in the past 12 months were, survey year-2011 more likely than 2015 (aOR = 0.50), number of partners (aOR = 3.25), ever been pregnant (aOR = 2.47) and knowing where to find ART (aOR = 1.54). Factors associated with contraception use were being older (aOR = 4.83); ever been pregnant (aOR = 12.62); knowing where to get ART (aOR = 1.79) and having had an HIV test in past 12 months (aOR = 1.74). CONCLUSION Prior to DREAMS, HIV incidence in AGYW was high. HIV and SRH service uptake did not improve and was suboptimal. Findings highlight the need for combination HIV prevention programmes for AGYW in this economically vulnerable area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sian Floyd
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Deenan Pillay
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
- University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Seeley
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jaco Dreyer
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | | | | | - Justin Fenty
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kobus Herbst
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Theresa Smit
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Kathy Baisley
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
- University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Pathack A, Saumtally A, Soobhany S, Comins CA, Kinoo SAH, Emmanuel F. Programmatic mapping to determine the size and dynamics of sex work and injecting drug use in Mauritius. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2018; 17:129-136. [PMID: 29745291 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2018.1462216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
HIV in Mauritius is in a concentrated phase. Most HIV infection is among key populations (KPs) including female sex workers (FSW), people who inject drugs (PWID), men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender sex workers (TGSW). The objective of this research was to use geographical mapping to determine the precise locations, typologies and population estimates of each KP in Mauritius. From May to July 2014 a programmatic mapping approach determined national estimates and information on the specific locations, "hotspots", frequented by KPs in Mauritius. Data were collected through multiple levels of activity. Key informants provided information about hotspots where KPs congregated and were actively engaged in risky behaviours. Validation of hotspots was done by engaging KPs. A total of 17 248 KP members were estimated spread over 1 964 hotspots in Mauritius. The largest KP was PWID with an estimate of 7 598 (range: 4 091-6 223), followed by 6 223 (range: 5 090-7 456) FSWs, spread over 694 and 731 hotspots respectively. A total of 2 020 (range: 1 595-2 446) MSM and 294 geographic MSM hotspots, and 1 407 TGSWs (range: 1 165-1 649) distributed over 245 hotspots. This research provided Mauritius with validated KPs size estimations and provided the first national data on KP hotspots and operational dynamics. The use of these data will strengthen HIV prevention, intervention, and programme planning in the country through focusing efforts to systematically target high-risk areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amita Pathack
- a National AIDS Secretariat , Port Louis , Mauritius
| | | | | | | | | | - Faran Emmanuel
- b Centre for Global Public Health , University of Manitoba , Canada
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Mayaphi SH, Martin DJ, Olorunju SAS, Williams BG, Quinn TC, Stoltz AC. High risk exposure to HIV among sexually active individuals who tested negative on rapid HIV Tests in the Tshwane District of South Africa-The importance of behavioural prevention measures. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0192357. [PMID: 29394288 PMCID: PMC5796711 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0192357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence of HIV risk behaviour among sexually active HIV sero-negative individuals in the Tshwane district of South Africa (SA). METHODS Demographic and HIV risk behaviour data were collected on a questionnaire from participants of a cross-sectional study that screened for early HIV infection using pooled nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT). The study enrolled individuals who tested negative on rapid HIV tests performed at five HIV counseling and testing (HCT) clinics, which included four antenatal clinics and one general HCT clinic. RESULTS The study enrolled 9547 predominantly black participants (96.6%) with a median age of 27 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 23-31). There were 1661 non-pregnant and 7886 pregnant participants largely enrolled from the general and antenatal HCT clinics, respectively. NAAT detected HIV infection in 61 participants (0.6%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.4-0.8) in the whole study. A high proportion of study participants, 62.8% and 63.0%, were unaware of their partner's HIV status; and also had high prevalence, 88.5% and 99.5%, of recent unprotected sex in the general and pregnant population, respectively. Consistent use of condoms was associated with protection against HIV infection in the general population. Trends of higher odds for HIV infection were observed with most demographic and HIV risk factors at univariate analysis, however, multivariate analysis did not show statistical significance for almost all these factors. A significantly lower risk of HIV infection was observed in circumcised men (p <0.001). CONCLUSIONS These data show that a large segment of sexually active people in the Tshwane district of SA have high risk exposure to HIV. The detection of newly diagnosed HIV infections in all study clinics reflects a wide distribution of individuals who are capable of sustaining HIV transmission in the setting where HIV risk behaviour is highly prevalent. A questionnaire that captures HIV risk behaviour would be useful during HIV counselling and testing to ensure that there is a systematic way of identifying HIV risk factors and that counselling is optimised for each individual. HIV risk behaviour surveillance could be used to inform relevant HIV prevention interventions that could be implemented at a community or population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simnikiwe H. Mayaphi
- Department of Medical Virology, University of Pretoria, City of Tshwane, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service-Tshwane Academic Division (NHLS-TAD), City of Tshwane, South Africa
| | - Desmond J. Martin
- Department of Medical Virology, University of Pretoria, City of Tshwane, South Africa
- Toga Laboratories, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Brian G. Williams
- South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Thomas C. Quinn
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Anton C. Stoltz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pretoria, City of Tshwane, South Africa
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Determining Preferences Related to HIV Counselling and Testing Services Among High School Learners in KwaZulu-Natal: A Discrete Choice Experiment. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:64-76. [PMID: 27853894 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1602-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
A key strategy of the South African national response to HIV is the scale-up of HIV counselling and testing (HCT) in the 15-49 years age group. The integrated school health policy aims to guide the roll out of youth-friendly health services including the provision of HCT in schools. Using a discrete choice experiment to examine preferences regarding the attributes of HCT service packages, this study identifies barriers to and facilitators of HCT among high school learners. Monetary considerations were found to have the strongest effect of any attribute on choice, whilst confidentiality was found to be a primary concern for learners considering HCT. Policy makers and service providers must ensure that confidentiality is maintained, and could consider using monetary incentives as a way of increasing uptake of HCT. Programmes designed to reduce social stigma and improve education and knowledge dissemination around HCT and HIV, are vital in creating demand for HCT and changing attitudes among young people.
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Ward CL, Shaw D, Anane-Sarpong E, Sankoh O, Tanner M, Elger B. The Ethics of Health Care Delivery in a Pediatric Malaria Vaccine Trial: The Perspectives of Stakeholders From Ghana and Tanzania. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2017; 13:26-41. [PMID: 29179625 DOI: 10.1177/1556264617742236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study explores ethical issues raised in providing medical care to participants and communities of low-resource settings involved in a Phase II/III pediatric malaria vaccine trial (PMVT). We conducted 52 key informant interviews with major stakeholders of an international multi-center PMVT (GSK/PATH-MVI RTS,S) (NCT00866619) in Ghana and Tanzania. Based on their stakeholder experiences, the responses fell into three main themes: (a) undue inducement, (b) community disparities, and (c) broad therapeutic misconceptions. The study identified the critical ethical aspects, from the perspectives of stakeholders, of delivering health care during a PMVT. The study showed that integrating research into health care services needs to be addressed in a manner that upholds the favorable risk-benefit ratio of research and attends to the health needs of local populations. The implementation of research should aim to improve local standards of care through building a collaborative agenda with local institutions and systems of health.
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Dourado I, MacCarthy S, Reddy M, Calazans G, Gruskin S. Revisiting the use of condoms in Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE EPIDEMIOLOGIA 2017; 18 Suppl 1:63-88. [PMID: 26630299 DOI: 10.1590/1809-4503201500050006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It is known that a single prevention strategy is not enough to control multiple HIV epidemics around the world and in Brazil. However, it is not only necessary to recognize the importance of condoms as part of the policy of HIV/AIDS prevention but also discuss its limits. In this article, we aim to investigate the use of condoms in Brazil, draw critical reflections, and understand how they can once again be highlighted in Brazil's prevention strategy going forward. METHODS A narrative review of literature was conducted using keywords in PubMed. Reports from national surveys that guide the epidemiological and behavioral surveillance of the Brazilian Ministry of Health were also included. RESULTS A total of 40 articles and 3 reports were included in the review and 11 intervention studies to promote the condom use; the main findings were as follows: 1) Despite the increase in national studies on sexual behavior, little attention is given to the role of condom use; 2) There are few studies examining the factors associated with condom use among key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSW), drug users (DU), and transvestites and transexuals (TT), while substantial studies focus on adolescents and women; 3) Evidence suggests that a combination of interventions is more effective. DISCUSSION new prevention technologies must not lose sight of the critical importance of condoms, and efforts to reintroduce them should focus on the role of pleasure in addition to their potential to minimize the risk of HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Dourado
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Sarah MacCarthy
- Program on Global Health and Human Rights, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Manasa Reddy
- Program on Global Health and Human Rights, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gabriela Calazans
- School of Medical Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sofia Gruskin
- Program on Global Health and Human Rights, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Zunza M, Cotton MF, Mbuagbaw L, Lester R, Thabane L. Interactive weekly mobile phone text messaging plus motivational interviewing in promotion of breastfeeding among women living with HIV in South Africa: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2017; 18:331. [PMID: 28716146 PMCID: PMC5513395 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-017-2079-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa recently phased out access to free formula milk in the public sector in support of breastfeeding for women living with HIV. Few women living with HIV in South Africa choose breastfeeding and among those who do, many stop breastfeeding early. We sought to explore the feasibility of using mobile phone text messaging coupled with motivational interviewing to enhance adherence to breastfeeding practices. METHODS AND DESIGN A randomized, parallel group, single-center pilot trial. Electronic sequence generation and random allocation will be done centrally. Women of low socioeconomic status, from Cape Town, South Africa will be randomly assigned within 24 h of giving birth at a primary healthcare clinic to a structured weekly text message plus motivational interviewing and usual standard of care, using a permutation of different block sizes. Criteria for feasibility success will include: five participants recruited per week (over 12 weeks), about 75% of all eligible participants consent for study participation, complete evaluation of outcomes in at least 70% of all recruited participants, breastfeeding adherence rates of at least 70% in the intervention group, six months after delivery. Participants will be evaluated soon after giving birth and post-delivery at weeks 2, 6, 10, and 24. Primary analysis will follow the "intention-to-treat" principle. Sub-group analysis will be used to assess sub-group effects. DISCUSSION This pilot trial will evaluate the feasibility of conducting a larger trial on communication and support approaches to improve adherence to breastfeeding by HIV-infected women. Text messaging and motivational interviewing are simple interventions which may allow participants to access personalized adherence advice and support. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02949713 . Registered on 26 October 2016; Pan African Clinical Trial Registry PACTR201611001855404 . Registered on 8 November 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moleen Zunza
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Global Health, Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Stellenbosch University, Francie Van Zyl Drive, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000 South Africa
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC Canada
- CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, 588-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 3E6 Canada
| | - Mark F. Cotton
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Francie Van Zyl Drive, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 8000 South Africa
| | - Lawrence Mbuagbaw
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
- Biostatistics Unit, Father Sean O’Sullivan Research Centre, St Joseph’s Healthcare, Hamilton, ON Canada
| | - Richard Lester
- Global Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
- Biostatistics Unit, Father Sean O’Sullivan Research Centre, St Joseph’s Healthcare, Hamilton, ON Canada
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Hargreaves JR, Delany-Moretlwe S, Hallett TB, Johnson S, Kapiga S, Bhattacharjee P, Dallabetta G, Garnett GP. The HIV prevention cascade: integrating theories of epidemiological, behavioural, and social science into programme design and monitoring. Lancet HIV 2017; 3:e318-22. [PMID: 27365206 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(16)30063-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Revised: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Theories of epidemiology, health behaviour, and social science have changed the understanding of HIV prevention in the past three decades. The HIV prevention cascade is emerging as a new approach to guide the design and monitoring of HIV prevention programmes in a way that integrates these multiple perspectives. This approach recognises that translating the efficacy of direct mechanisms that mediate HIV prevention (including prevention products, procedures, and risk-reduction behaviours) into population-level effects requires interventions that increase coverage. An HIV prevention cascade approach suggests that high coverage can be achieved by targeting three key components: demand-side interventions that improve risk perception and awareness and acceptability of prevention approaches; supply-side interventions that make prevention products and procedures more accessible and available; and adherence interventions that support ongoing adoption of prevention behaviours, including those that do and do not involve prevention products. Programmes need to develop delivery platforms that ensure these interventions reach target populations, to shape the policy environment so that it facilitates implementation at scale with high quality and intensity, and to monitor the programme with indicators along the cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sinead Delany-Moretlwe
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Saidi Kapiga
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
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Eleftheriou A, Bullock S, Graham CA, Ingham R. Using Computer Simulations for Investigating a Sex Education Intervention: An Exploratory Study. JMIR Serious Games 2017; 5:e9. [PMID: 28468747 PMCID: PMC5438447 DOI: 10.2196/games.6598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are ongoing concerns. The best method for preventing the transmission of these infections is the correct and consistent use of condoms. Few studies have explored the use of games in interventions for increasing condom use by challenging the false sense of security associated with judging the presence of an STI based on attractiveness. Objectives The primary purpose of this study was to explore the potential use of computer simulation as a serious game for sex education. Specific aims were to (1) study the influence of a newly designed serious game on self-rated confidence for assessing STI risk and (2) examine whether this varied by gender, age, and scores on sexuality-related personality trait measures. Methods This paper undertook a Web-based questionnaire study employing between and within subject analyses. A Web-based platform hosted in the United Kingdom was used to deliver male and female stimuli (facial photographs) and collect data. A convenience sample group of 66 participants (64%, 42/66) male, mean age 22.5 years) completed the Term on the Tides, a computer simulation developed for this study. Participants also completed questionnaires on demographics, sexual preferences, sexual risk evaluations, the Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS), and the Sexual Inhibition Subscale 2 (SIS2) of the Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales-Short Form (SIS/SES - SF). Results The overall confidence of participants to evaluate sexual risks reduced after playing the game (P<.005). Age and personality trait measures did not predict the change in confidence of evaluating risk. Women demonstrated larger shifts in confidence than did men (P=.03). Conclusions This study extends the literature by investigating the potential of computer simulations as a serious game for sex education. Engaging in the Term on the Tides game had an impact on participants’ confidence in evaluating sexual risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Eleftheriou
- Institute for Complex Systems Simulation, Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Seth Bullock
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Cynthia A Graham
- Centre for Sexual Health Research, Department of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Roger Ingham
- Centre for Sexual Health Research, Department of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Evidence that promotion of male circumcision did not lead to sexual risk compensation in prioritized Sub-Saharan countries. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175928. [PMID: 28441458 PMCID: PMC5404849 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background WHO and UNAIDS prioritized 14 eastern and southern African countries with high HIV and low male circumcision prevalence for a voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) scale-up in 2007. Because circumcision provides only partial protection against HIV infection to men, the issue of possible risk compensation in response to VMMC campaigns is of particular concern. In this study, we looked at population-level survey data from the countries prioritized by WHO for a VMMC scale-up. We compared the difference in sexual risk behaviours (SRB) between circumcised and uncircumcised men before and after the WHO’s official VMMC promotion. Materials and methods Ten countries (Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe) participating in the WHO’s VMMC scale-up had available data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS). We used cumulative-link mixed models to investigate interactions between survey period and circumcision status in predicting SRB, in order to evaluate whether the difference between the behavior of the two groups changed before and after the scale-up, while controlling for socio-demographic and knowledge-related covariates. The main responses were condom use at last sex and number of non-cohabiting sexual partners, both in the last 12 months. Results There was little change in condom use by circumcised men relative to uncircumcised men from before the VMMC scale up to after the scale up. The relative odds ratio is 1.06 (95% CI, 0.95–1.18; interaction P = 0.310). Similarly, there was little change in the number of non-cohabiting partners in circumcised men (relative to uncircumcised men): the relative odds ratio of increasing the number of partners is 0.95 (95% CI, 0.86–1.05; interaction P = 0.319). Age, religion, education, job, marital status, media use and HIV knowledge also showed statistically significant association with the studied risk behaviours. We also found significant differences among countries, while controlling for covariates. Conclusions Overall, we find no evidence of sexual risk compensation in response to VMMC campaigns in countries prioritized by WHO. Changes in relative partner behaviour and the relative odds of condom use were small (and of uncertain sign). In fact, our estimates, though not significant, both suggest slightly less risky behavior. We conclude that sexual risk compensation in response to VMMC campaigns has not been a serious problem to date, but urge continued attention to local context, and to promulgating accurate messages about circumcision within and beyond the VMMC context.
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Carlos S, Lopez-Del Burgo C, Burgueño E, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Osorio A, Ndarabu A, Passabosc C, de Irala J. Male condom use, multiple sexual partners and HIV: a prospective case-control study in Kinshasa (DRC). AIDS Care 2016; 29:772-781. [PMID: 27852108 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2016.1258450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In the Democratic Republic of Congo no previous studies have assessed the factors associated with different patterns of condom use and with multiple sexual partners, and the association between condom use simultaneously taking into account multiple sexual partnerships, and HIV infection. We carried out a prospective case-control study. From December 2010 until June 2012, 1630 participants aged 15-49 getting HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing in a hospital in Kinshasa were selected. Cases were new HIV diagnosis and controls were HIV-negative participants detected along the study period. We recruited 274 cases and 1340 controls that were interviewed about HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. Among cases there was a high prevalence of multiple lifetime and concurrent sexual partnerships (89.8% and 20.4%, respectively) and most cases never used condoms with only 1.5% using them consistently. Condom use and multiple partnerships were associated with male, single and high-educated participants. An association was found between multiple lifetime partners and 'any condom use' (OR = 2.99; 95%CI: 2.14-4.19) but not with consistent use. Both having two or more multiple concurrent sexual partners or not using condoms were variables similarly and highly associated to HIV risk. The association found between having two or more concurrent sexual partners and HIV was slightly higher (OR = 3.58, 95%CI:2.31-5.56) than the association found between never condom use and HIV (OR = 3.38, 95%CI:1.15-9.93). We found a high prevalence of multiple lifetime sexual partners and an extremely high prevalence of inconsistent condom use, both strongly associated with HIV seropositivity. Local programmes would benefit from comprehensive interventions targeting all behavioural and sociocultural determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Carlos
- a Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain.,b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,c Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality , University of Navarra , Pamplona Spain
| | - Cristina Lopez-Del Burgo
- a Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain.,b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,c Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality , University of Navarra , Pamplona Spain
| | - Eduardo Burgueño
- d CEFA-Monkole , Kinshasa , Democratic Republic of the Congo.,e Department of Family Medicine and Primary Health Care , UPC - Protestant University in Congo, Kinshasa , Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Miguel Angel Martinez-Gonzalez
- a Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain.,b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,f CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBER obn), Spanish Government (ISCIII) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Alfonso Osorio
- b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,c Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality , University of Navarra , Pamplona Spain.,g School of Education and Psychology , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain
| | - Adolphe Ndarabu
- h Monkole Hospital , Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Clément Passabosc
- i Department of Ophthalmology , Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Jokin de Irala
- a Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain.,b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,c Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality , University of Navarra , Pamplona Spain
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Kalibala S, Woelk GB, Gloyd S, Jani N, Kay L, Sarna A, Okal J, Ndwiga C, Haberland N, Sinai I. Experiences in implementation and publication of operations research interventions: gaps and a way forward. J Int AIDS Soc 2016; 19:20842. [PMID: 27443272 PMCID: PMC4956737 DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.5.20842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION According to UNAIDS, the world currently has an adequate collection of proven HIV prevention, treatment and diagnostic tools, which, if scaled up, can lay the foundation for ending the AIDS epidemic. HIV operations research (OR) tests and promotes the use of interventions that can increase the demand for and supply of these tools. However, current publications of OR mainly focus on outcomes, leaving gaps in reporting of intervention characteristics, which are essential to address for the utilization of OR findings. This has prompted WHO and other international public health agencies to issue reporting requirements for OR studies. The objective of this commentary is to review experiences in HIV OR intervention design, implementation, process data collection and publication in order to identify gaps, contribute to the body of knowledge and propose a way forward to improve the focus on "implementation" in implementation research. DISCUSSION Interventions in OR, like ordinary service delivery programmes, are subject to the programme cycle, which continually uses insights from implementation and the local context to modify service delivery modalities. Given that some of these modifications in the intervention may influence study outcomes, the documentation of process data becomes vital in OR. However, a key challenge is that study resources tend to be skewed towards documentation and the reporting of study outcomes to the detriment of process data, even though process data is vital for understanding factors influencing the outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Interventions in OR should be viewed using the lens of programme evaluation, which includes formative assessment (to determine concept and design), followed by process evaluation (to monitor inputs and outputs) and effectiveness evaluation (to assess outcomes and effectiveness). Study resources should be equitably used between process evaluation and outcome measurement to facilitate inclusion of data about fidelity and dose in publications in order to enable explanation of the relationship between dosing and study outcomes for purposes of scaling up and further refinement through research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Godfrey B Woelk
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Stephen Gloyd
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nrupa Jani
- HIVCore/Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Avina Sarna
- HIVCore/Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jerry Okal
- HIVCore/Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
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Lessons learned and study results from HIVCore, an HIV implementation science initiative. J Int AIDS Soc 2016. [DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.5.21261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Jenness SM, Goodreau SM, Morris M, Cassels S. Effectiveness of combination packages for HIV-1 prevention in sub-Saharan Africa depends on partnership network structure: a mathematical modelling study. Sex Transm Infect 2016; 92:619-624. [PMID: 27288415 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2015-052476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Combination packages for HIV prevention can leverage the effectiveness of biomedical and behavioural elements to lower disease incidence with realistic targets for individual and population risk reduction. We investigated how sexual network structures can maximise the effectiveness of a package targeting sexually active adults in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) with intervention components for medical male circumcision (MMC) and sexual partnership concurrency (having >1 ongoing partner). METHODS Network-based mathematical models of HIV type 1 (HIV-1) transmission dynamics among heterosexual couples were used to explore how changes to MMC alone and in combination with changes to concurrency impacted endemic HIV-1 prevalence and incidence. Starting from a base model parameterised from empirical data from West Africa, we simulated the prevalence of circumcision from 10% to 90% and concurrency was modelled at four discrete levels corresponding to values observed across SSA. RESULTS MMC and concurrency could contribute to the empirical variation in HIV-1 disease prevalence across SSA. Small reductions in concurrency resulted in large declines in HIV-1 prevalence. Scaling up circumcision in low-concurrency settings yields a greater relative benefit, but the absolute number of infections averted depends on both the circumcision coverage and baseline incidence. Epidemic extinction with this package will require substantial scale-up of MMC in low-concurrency settings. CONCLUSIONS Dynamic sexual network structure should be considered in the design and targeting of MMC within combination HIV-1 prevention packages. Realistic levels of coverage for these packages within southern Africa could lead to a reduction of incidence to the low levels observed in western Africa, and possibly, epidemic extinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel M Jenness
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Steven M Goodreau
- Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Martina Morris
- Departments of Statistics & Sociology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Susan Cassels
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
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Bowring AL, Pasomsouk N, Higgs P, Sychareun V, Hellard M, Power R. Factors Influencing Access to Sexual Health Care Among Behaviorally Bisexual Men in Vientiane, Laos: A Qualitative Exploration. Asia Pac J Public Health 2016; 27:820-34. [PMID: 26543164 DOI: 10.1177/1010539515612909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In Laos, men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV, and bisexual behavior among men is common. We conducted a qualitative study to explore access and influences on sexual health care seeking among bisexual men in Vientiane. In 2013, behaviorally bisexual men were recruited from bars, clubs and dormitories for 5 focus group discussions and 11 in-depth interviews. Participants (aged 18-35 years) commonly reported high-risk sexual behaviors, yet most had never been tested for HIV, and none reported testing for sexually transmitted infections. Common barriers to testing were low perception of risk, expectation of symptoms, fear of HIV, shyness, perceived stigma, confidentiality concerns, and waiting times. Many men were unaware of available services. Most clinics cannot provide comprehensive HIV and sexually transmitted infection services. Strategies are needed to generate demand for testing, improve the capacity of sexual health care providers, and promote available services among behaviorally bisexual men in Vientiane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Bowring
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Peter Higgs
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Faculty of Health Sciences, National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vanphanom Sychareun
- Faculty of Postgraduate Studies, University of Health Sciences, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert Power
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Barone MA, Li PS, Awori QD, Lee R, Goldstein M. Clinical trials using the Shang Ring device for male circumcision in Africa: a review. Transl Androl Urol 2016; 3:113-24. [PMID: 26816759 PMCID: PMC4708291 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2223-4683.2014.01.09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Male circumcision (MC) reduces the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), and is recommended as an important component of a comprehensive package of HIV prevention interventions. While computer modeling has demonstrated that substantial reductions in HIV could be achieved with rapid scale-up of MC services in sub-Saharan Africa, scale-up has lagged due to scarcity of trained providers coupled with relative technical difficulty of recommended surgical MC techniques. Simplified techniques, such as devices, have the potential to allow for a more rapid roll-out of MC. One such device is the Shang Ring, a novel disposable MC device that eliminates the need for suturing and has been on the Chinese market since 2005. Results from Chinese studies have demonstrated that the Shang Ring is both safe and easy to use. Since 2008, a series of studies using the Shang Ring for adult MC have been carried out in Kenya, Uganda and Zambia, according to guidelines established by World Health Organization (WHO) for clinical evaluation of new devices for adult MC. These include a proof of concept study, a study of delayed removal of the Shang Ring, two studies comparing Shang Ring circumcision to conventional surgical approaches, and a large field trial to evaluate safety of Shang Ring circumcision during routine service delivery. Results from these studies demonstrate that the Shang Ring has an excellent safety profile and that Shang Ring circumcision is relatively easy to teach and learn, making Shang Ring MC an appealing technique for use in sub-Saharan Africa where doctors are in short supply and non-physician providers such as nurses and clinical officers are playing a major role in providing MC through task shifting. Shang Ring MC and device removals were uneventfully performed by trained nurses and clinical officers, who preferred the Shang Ring to conventional surgical techniques. Adverse event rates were similar to those observed with conventional surgical circumcision and were managed with, at most, minor interventions, resolving with no long-term sequale. Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of the Shang Ring is the relatively short 3-6 minutes procedure time. Importantly, men also preferred the Shang Ring compared to conventional circumcision and satisfaction with cosmetic appearance of their circumcised penis was very high. The vast majority of participants in studies in Africa as well as China have reported few problems and little disruption to daily life while wearing the device. The Shang Ring holds great promise as an innovative technology that has the potential to facilitate the safe and effective scale-up of circumcision services in settings where MC is not widely used and where the burden of HIV-disease is high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Barone
- 1 EngenderHealth, New York, NY, USA ; 2 Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery, Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA ; 3 EngenderHealth, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Philip S Li
- 1 EngenderHealth, New York, NY, USA ; 2 Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery, Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA ; 3 EngenderHealth, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Quentin D Awori
- 1 EngenderHealth, New York, NY, USA ; 2 Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery, Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA ; 3 EngenderHealth, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Richard Lee
- 1 EngenderHealth, New York, NY, USA ; 2 Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery, Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA ; 3 EngenderHealth, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Marc Goldstein
- 1 EngenderHealth, New York, NY, USA ; 2 Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery, Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA ; 3 EngenderHealth, Nairobi, Kenya
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Abbai NS, Reddy T, Ramjee G. Prevalent bacterial vaginosis infection - a risk factor for incident sexually transmitted infections in women in Durban, South Africa. Int J STD AIDS 2015; 27:1283-1288. [PMID: 26538552 DOI: 10.1177/0956462415616038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The association between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and incident sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in a cohort of high-risk women from Durban, South Africa was investigated in this study. We undertook a secondary analysis of the Methods for Improving Reproductive Health in Africa trial that assessed effectiveness of the latex diaphragm and lubricant gel on HIV prevention among women. During study visits, urine specimens were collected for testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis and Trichomonas vaginalis The presence of BV was based on vaginal pH and wet mount test assessments. The association between BV and the risk for incident STIs was determined using the Cox proportional hazards model. Prevalence of BV was 31% in a cohort of 435 women tested at baseline. Among these women, BV was significantly associated with incident Trichomonas vaginalis (14.6 per 100 PY, p = 0.03) and Chlamydia trachomatis infections (15.8 per 100 PY, p = 0.04). BV remained a significant predictor for Trichomonas vaginalis infections even after adjusting for potential confounders such as age and marital status (HR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.00, 2.57, p = 0.04). Our study showed an association between baseline BV infections and incident Trichomonas vaginalis and Chlamydia trachomatis infections. Women with BV infections should be counselled on the use of condoms and the risk of new STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathlee S Abbai
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tarylee Reddy
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Gita Ramjee
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa.,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Genital Tenofovir Concentrations Correlate With Protection Against HIV Infection in the CAPRISA 004 Trial: Importance of Adherence for Microbicide Effectiveness. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 69:264-9. [PMID: 26181703 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The CAPRISA 004 trial showed that coitally dosed tenofovir 1% gel reduced HIV acquisition by 39% overall and 54% when used consistently. The objective of this analysis was to ascertain its pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic relationship to protect against HIV acquisition. DESIGN Genital and systemic tenofovir concentrations in 34 women who acquired HIV (cases) were compared with 302 randomly selected women who remained HIV uninfected (controls) during the CAPRISA 004 trial. In total, 336 cervicovaginal fluid (CVF), 55 plasma, and 23 paired cervical and vaginal tissue samples were assayed by validated methods for tenofovir and tenofovir diphosphate (tenofovir-DP) detection. RESULTS Tenofovir was detected in the genital tract in 8 (23.5%) cases and 119 (39.4%) controls (P = 0.076). Among those with detectable genital tract tenofovir, the median CVF concentrations were 97% lower in cases compared with controls, 476 versus 13,821 ng/mL (P = 0.107). A total of 14.7% (5/34) of cases and 32.8% (99/302) of controls were found to have tenofovir CVF concentrations above 100 ng/mL [odds ratio (OR): 0.35, P = 0.037]. At a higher threshold, 8.8% (3/34) of cases and 26.2% (79/302) of controls were found to have tenofovir CVF concentrations above 1000 ng/mL (OR: 0.27, P = 0.036). Plasma tenofovir concentrations were <1 ng/mL in all women and were detected only in controls (16.7%) and not in cases (0%), (P = 0.031). Returned used tenofovir gel applicators and CVF concentrations were correlated (Spearman r = 0.22, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS A tenofovir concentration of ≥100 ng/mL in CVF was associated with 65% (95% CI: 6% to 87%) protection against HIV, whereas a ≥1000 ng/mL concentration correlated with 76% (95% CI: 8% to 92%) protection against HIV infection.
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Bhagwanjee A, Govender K, Akintola O, Petersen I, George G, Johnstone L, Naidoo K. Patterns of disclosure and antiretroviral treatment adherence in a South African mining workplace programme and implications for HIV prevention. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2015; 10 Suppl 1:357-68. [PMID: 25865512 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2011.637737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Social and psychological barriers to the disclosure of one's seropositive HIV status to significant others and poor adherence to taking medications pose significant challenges to the scaling-up of access to antiretroviral treatment (ART) in the workplace. Such barriers are predictive of sub-optimal treatment outcomes and bedevil HIV-prevention interventions at a societal level. Against this background, this article explores the lived experiences of 19 HIV-positive male participants, between the ages of 33 and 57 years, who were enrolled in an ART programme managed at an occupational health clinic at a mining company in South Africa. The majority of these mineworkers had been aware of their HIV status for between 5 and 7 years. The study explored psychological and relational factors, as aspects of these participants lived experiences, which had a bearing on their adherence to their ART regimen and the disclosure choices that they made regarding their HIV status. In our sample, those participants who were adherent demonstrated higher levels of control and acceptance of their HIV infection and were more confident in their ability to manage their treatment, while the group who were non-adherent presented with lower levels of adherence motivation and self-efficacy, difficulties in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and significant challenges in maintaining control over their lives. While most of the men favoured disclosing their HIV status to their partners for the sake of treatment support, they were less sure about disclosing to family members and non-family members, respectively, because of their need to protect these persons and due to their fear of being stigmatised. It was evident that treatment adherence choices and behaviours were impacted by psychological and relational factors, including disclosure decisions. We conclude with a bivariate model for understanding the adherence behaviours that influenced different patterns of ART adherence among the sample, and offer recommendations for HIV-prevention and treatment interventions in a mining workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Bhagwanjee
- a University of KwaZulu-Natal, School of Psychology (Howard College) , Private Bag X54001 , Durban , 4000 , South Africa
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Ma W, Wu G, Zheng H, Zhang W, Peng Z, Yu R, Wang N. Prevalence and risk factors of HIV and syphilis, and knowledge and risk behaviors related to HIV/AIDS among men who have sex with men in Chongqing, China. J Biomed Res 2015; 30:101-111. [PMID: 28276665 PMCID: PMC4820887 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.30.20150057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
High HIV prevalence and incidence burdens have been reported in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Chongqing, China. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), to appraise the knowledge and risk behaviors related to HIV/AIDS among MSM, and to analyze the possible causes of deviation between behavior and knowledge to make better strategies. We recruited 617 MSM from February to July in 2008 by using a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) method in Chongqing, China. Through the collection of questionnaire-based data and biological testing results from all objects, we launched a cross-sectional survey. STATA/SE was used for data analysis by frequency, ANOVA, rank sum test and logistic regression models. MSM with syphilis (OR=4.16, 95%CI: 2.35-7.33, P<0.0001) were more likely to be HIV infected. Being a company employee (OR=3.64, 95%CI: 1.22-10.08, P<0.0001) and having bought male for sex (OR=3.52, 95%CI: 1.10-11.32, P < 0.034) were associated with a higher probability of syphilis. MSM with younger age, higher education and greater monthly income had a higher mean knowledge score. MSM who had HIV testing had a higher mean knowledge score than those who never had. Students, venues for finding sex partners by Internet and homosexuals in MSM had a higher mean knowledge score compared to other occupations, venues for finding sex partners and sexual orientation. There is an urgent need for delivery of barrier and biomedical interventions with coordinated behavioral and structural strategies to improve the effect of HIV interventions among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhe Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Gohui Wu
- Chongqing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Wenjuan Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Zhihang Peng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China;
| | - Rongbin Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China;
| | - Ning Wang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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Whiteside A, Strauss M. The end of AIDS: possibility or pipe dream? A tale of transitions. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2015; 13:101-8. [PMID: 25174627 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2014.927780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Globally, in the last 20 years health has improved. In this generally optimistic setting HIV and AIDS accounts for the fastest growing burden of disease. The data show the bulk of this is experienced in Southern Africa. In this region, HIV and AIDS (and tuberculosis [TB]) peaks among young adults. Women carry the greater proportion of infections and provided most of the care. South Africa has the dubious distinction of having the largest number of people living with HIV in the world, 6.4 million. HIV began spreading from about 1990 and today the prevalence among antenatal clinic attendees is 29.5%. A similar situation exists in other nations of the region. It is an expensive disease, requiring more resources than are available, and it is slipping off the global agenda, both in terms of attention and international funding. Those halcyon days of the decade from 2000 to 2010 are over. This paper explores the concept of three transition points: economic, epidemiological and programmatic. The first two have been developed and written about by others. We add a third transition point, namely programmatic, argue this is an important concept, and show how it can become a powerful tool in the response to the epidemic. The economic transition point assesses HIV incidence and mortality of people infected with HIV. Until the number of newly infected people falls below the number of deaths of people living with HIV, the demand for treatment and costs will increase. This is a concern for the health sector, finance ministry and all working in the field of HIV. Once an economic transition occurs the treatment future is predictable and the number of people living with HIV and AIDS decreases. This paper plots two more lines. These are the number of new people from the HIV infected pool initiated on treatment and the number of people from the HIV infected pool requiring treatment. This introduces new transition points on the graph. The first when the number of people initiated on treatment exceeds the number of people needing treatment. The second when the number initiated on treatment exceeds the new infections. That is the theory. When we applied South African data from the ASSA2008 model, we were able to plot transition points marking progress in the national response. We argue these concepts can and should be applied to any country or HIV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Whiteside
- a Basillie School of International Affairs and Wilfrid Laurier University , 67 Erb Street West, Waterloo, Ontario , Canada N2L 6C2
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Wamai RG, Morris BJ, Bailey RC, Klausner JD, Boedicker MN. Male circumcision for protection against HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa: the evidence in favour justifies the implementation now in progress. Glob Public Health 2015; 10:639-66. [PMID: 25613581 PMCID: PMC6352987 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2014.989532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
This article responds to a recent 'controversy study' in Global Public Health by de Camargo et al. directed at three randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of male circumcision (MC) for HIV prevention. These trials were conducted in three countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and published in 2005 and 2007. The RCTs confirmed observational data that had accumulated over the preceding two decades showing that MC reduces by 60% the risk of HIV infection in heterosexual men. Based on the RCT results, MC was adopted by global and national HIV policy-makers as an additional intervention for HIV prevention. Voluntary medical MC (VMMC) is now being implemented in 14 SSA countries. Thus referring to MC for HIV prevention as 'debate' and viewing MC through a lens of controversy seems mistaken. In their criticism, de Camargo et al. misrepresent and misinterpret current science supporting MC for HIV prevention, omit previous denunciations of arguments similar to theirs, and ignore evidence from ongoing scientific research. Here we point out the flaws in three areas de Camargo et al. find contentious. In doing so, we direct readers to growing evidence of MC as an efficacious, safe, acceptable, relatively low-cost one-off biomedical intervention for HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard G. Wamai
- Department of African-American Studies, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brian J. Morris
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert C. Bailey
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jeffrey D. Klausner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, California, USA
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Bekker LG, Johnson L, Cowan F, Overs C, Besada D, Hillier S, Cates W. Combination HIV prevention for female sex workers: what is the evidence? Lancet 2015; 385:72-87. [PMID: 25059942 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(14)60974-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Sex work occurs in many forms and sex workers of all genders have been affected by HIV epidemics worldwide. The determinants of HIV risk associated with sex work occur at several levels, including individual biological and behavioural, dyadic and network, and community and social environmental levels. Evidence indicates that effective HIV prevention packages for sex workers should include combinations of biomedical, behavioural, and structural interventions tailored to local contexts, and be led and implemented by sex worker communities. A model simulation based on the South African heterosexual epidemic suggests that condom promotion and distribution programmes in South Africa have already reduced HIV incidence in sex workers and their clients by more than 70%. Under optimistic model assumptions, oral pre-exposure prophylaxis together with test and treat programmes could further reduce HIV incidence in South African sex workers and their clients by up to 40% over a 10-year period. Combining these biomedical approaches with a prevention package, including behavioural and structural components as part of a community-driven approach, will help to reduce HIV infection in sex workers in different settings worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa.
| | - Leigh Johnson
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Frances Cowan
- Research Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK; Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Cheryl Overs
- Michael Kirby Centre for Public Health and Human Rights, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Donela Besada
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Sharon Hillier
- University of Pittsburgh Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Sánchez-Rodríguez J, Vacas-Córdoba E, Gómez R, De La Mata FJ, Muñoz-Fernández MÁ. Nanotech-derived topical microbicides for HIV prevention: the road to clinical development. Antiviral Res 2014; 113:33-48. [PMID: 25446339 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2014.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Revised: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
More than three decades since its discovery, HIV infection remains one of the most aggressive epidemics worldwide, with more than 35 million people infected. In sub-Saharan Africa, heterosexual transmissions represent nearly 80% of new infections, with 50% of these occurring in women. In an effort to stop the dramatic spread of the HIV epidemic, new preventive treatments, such as microbicides, have been developed. Nanotechnology has revolutionized this field by designing and engineering novel highly effective nano-sized materials as microbicide candidates. This review illustrates the most recent advances in nanotech-derived HIV prevention strategies, as well as the main steps required to translate promising in vitro results into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Sánchez-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio InmunoBiología Molecular, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique Vacas-Córdoba
- Laboratorio InmunoBiología Molecular, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Gómez
- Dendrimers for Biomedical Applications Group (BioInDen), University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - F Javier De La Mata
- Dendrimers for Biomedical Applications Group (BioInDen), University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ma Ángeles Muñoz-Fernández
- Laboratorio InmunoBiología Molecular, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain.
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Do K, Minichiello V, Hussain R, Khan A. Physicians' perceived barriers to management of sexually transmitted infections in Vietnam. BMC Public Health 2014; 14:1133. [PMID: 25366038 PMCID: PMC4240811 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-1133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a public health problem in Vietnam with sub-optimal care in medical practice. Identifying practitioners’ perceived barriers to STI care is important to improve care for patients with STIs. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 451 physicians. These physicians were dermatology and venereology (D&V) doctors, obstetrical/gynaecological (Ob/Gyn) doctors, general practitioners, and assistant doctors working in health facilities at provincial, district and communal levels in three provinces in Vietnam. Results Almost all (99%) respondents mentioned at least one barrier to STI care. The barriers were “lack of STI training” (57%), “lack of professional resources” (41%), “lack of time” (38%), “lack of reimbursement” (21%), “lack of privacy/confidentiality” (17%), “lack of counselling” (15%), and “not the role of primary care provider” (7%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that “lack of professional resources” was associated with respondents being in medical practice for ten years or under (vs. 11–20 years), and working at district or communal health facilities (vs. provincial facilities); “lack of time” were associated with respondents being female, seeing more than 30 patients a week (vs. <15 patients/week); and “lack of privacy/confidentiality” was associated with physicians’ seeing more than 30 patients a week (vs. <15 patients/week). Conclusion The study has identified several barriers to STI care in medical practice in Vietnam. Results of the study can be used to improve areas in STI care including policy and practice implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rafat Hussain
- School of Rural Medicine, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia.
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Wechsberg WM, Zule WA, Ndirangu J, Kline TL, Rodman NF, Doherty IA, Novak SP, van der Horst CM. The biobehavioral Women's Health CoOp in Pretoria, South Africa: study protocol for a cluster-randomized design. BMC Public Health 2014; 14:1074. [PMID: 25318563 PMCID: PMC4287508 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-1074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa has 6.4 million adults over the age of 15 living with HIV. Gender inequality issues continue to drive the HIV epidemic in South Africa, where Black African women bear the greatest HIV burden. Limited access to services; little capacity to negotiate sex and condom use; and other legal, social, and economic inequities make women highly vulnerable to HIV infection. Behavioral interventions have been shown to decrease risk behaviors, but they have been less successful in reducing HIV incidence. Conversely, biomedical prevention strategies have proven to be successful in reducing HIV incidence, but require behavioral interventions to increase uptake and adherence. Consequently, there is a need for integrated approaches that combine biomedical and behavioral interventions. Effective combination prevention efforts should comprise biomedical, behavioral, and structural programming proven in randomized trials that focuses on the driving forces and key populations at higher risk of HIV infection and transmission. METHODS/DESIGN This prospective, geographically clustered randomized field experiment is enrolling participants into two arms: a control arm that receives standard HIV testing and referral for treatment; and an intervention arm that receives an evidence-based, woman-focused behavioral intervention that emphasizes risk reduction and retention, the Women's Health CoOp. We divided the city of Pretoria into 14 mutually exclusive geographic zones and randomized these zones into either the control arm or the intervention arm. Outreach workers are recruiting drug-using women from each zone. At baseline, eligible participants complete a questionnaire and biological testing for HIV, recent drug use, and pregnancy. Follow-up interviews are completed at 6 and 12 months. DISCUSSION The biobehavioral intervention in this study merges an efficacious behavioral HIV prevention intervention for women with biomedical prevention through HIV treatment as prevention using a Seek, Test, Treat and Retain strategy. This combination biobehavioral intervention is designed to (1) improve the quality of life and reduce HIV infectiousness among women who are HIV positive, and (2) reduce HIV risk behaviors among women regardless of their HIV status. If efficacious, this intervention could help control the HIV epidemic in South Africa. TRIAL REGISTRATION Trial registration no: NCT01497405.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendee M Wechsberg
- />RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194 USA
| | - William A Zule
- />RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194 USA
| | | | - Tracy L Kline
- />RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194 USA
| | - Nathaniel F Rodman
- />RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194 USA
| | - Irene A Doherty
- />RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194 USA
| | - Scott P Novak
- />RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194 USA
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Morrow KM, Underhill K, van den Berg JJ, Vargas S, Rosen RK, Katz DF. User-identified gel characteristics: a qualitative exploration of perceived product efficacy of topical vaginal microbicides. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2014; 43:1459-1467. [PMID: 24452632 PMCID: PMC4327860 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-013-0235-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 11/12/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Research has demonstrated that certain vaginal gel products--microbicides containing antiretroviral drugs--may reduce HIV infection risk among women. But for vaginal gels to avert HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), at-risk women must be willing to use them as directed. These products must therefore be "acceptable" to women and an important component of acceptability is users' perception that the product will work to prevent infection. We sought to understand how women's perceptions of vaginal gel properties may shape their understanding of product efficacy for HIV and STI prevention. Sixteen women completed two in-depth qualitative interviews (k = 32) to identify the range and types of sensory perceptions they experienced when using two vaginal gels. We identified emergent themes and linkages between users' sensory perceptions and their beliefs about product efficacy. Users' predictions about product efficacy for preventing infection corresponded to measurable physical properties, including gel volume, location in the vagina, coating behavior, sensation of the gel in the vagina, leakage, and gel changes during coital acts. Although the women described similar sensory experiences (e.g., gel leaked from the vagina), they interpreted these experiences to have varying implications for product efficacy (e.g., leakage was predicted to increase or decrease efficacy). To improve microbicide acceptability, gel developers should investigate and deliberately incorporate properties that influence users' perceptions of efficacy. When a microbicide is approved for use, providers should educate users to anticipate and understand their sensory experiences; improving users' experience can maximize adherence and product effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Morrow
- Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Miriam Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Coro West, Suite 309, 164 Summit Ave., Providence, RI, 02906, USA,
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Sexual risk trajectories among MSM in the United States: implications for pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2014; 65:579-86. [PMID: 24378726 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite evidence supporting pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) efficacy, there are concerns regarding the feasibility of widespread PrEP implementation among men who have sex with men (MSM). To inform the development of targeted PrEP delivery guidelines, sexual risk trajectories among HIV-negative MSM were characterized. METHODS At semiannual visits from 2003 to 2011, HIV-negative MSM (N = 419) participating in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study provided data on sexual risk behaviors (SRBs) since their last visit. Based on their reported behaviors, participants were assigned a SRB score at each visit as follows: 0 = no insertive or receptive anal intercourse, 1 = no unprotected insertive or receptive anal intercourse, 2 = only unprotected insertive anal intercourse, 3 = unprotected receptive anal intercourse with 1 HIV-negative partner, 4 = condom serosorting, 5 = condom seropositioning, and 6 = no seroadaptive behaviors. Group-based trajectory modeling was used to examine SRB scores (<4 vs. ≥4) and identify groups with distinct sexual risk trajectories. RESULTS Three sexual risk trajectory groups were identified: low-risk (n = 264; 63.0%), moderate-risk (n = 96; 22.9%; mean duration of consecutive high-risk intervals ∼1 year), and high-risk (n = 59; 14.1%; mean duration of consecutive high-risk intervals ∼2 years). Compared to low-risk group membership, high-risk group membership was associated with younger age (in years) [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.88 to 0.96], being White (AOR = 3.67, 95% CI: 1.48 to 9.11), earning an income ≥$20,000 (AOR = 4.98, 95% CI: 2.13 to 11.64), distress/depression symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale ≥ 16) (AOR = 2.36, 95% CI: 1.14 to 4.92), and substance use (AOR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.01 to 3.97). CONCLUSIONS Screening for the sociodemographic and behavioral factors described above may facilitate targeted PrEP delivery during high-risk periods among MSM.
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Wallace LA, Li J, McDaid LM. HIV prevalence and undiagnosed infection among a community sample of gay and bisexual men in Scotland, 2005-2011: implications for HIV testing policy and prevention. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90805. [PMID: 24621479 PMCID: PMC3951276 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To examine HIV prevalence, HIV testing behaviour, undiagnosed infection and risk factors for HIV positivity among a community sample of gay men in Scotland. Methods Cross-sectional survey of gay and bisexual men attending commercial gay venues in Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scotland with voluntary anonymous HIV testing of oral fluid samples in 2011. A response rate of 65.2% was achieved (1515 participants). Results HIV prevalence (4.8%, 95% confidence interval, CI 3.8% to 6.2%) remained stable compared to previous survey years (2005 and 2008) and the proportion of undiagnosed infection among HIV-positive men (25.4%) remained similar to that recorded in 2008. Half of the participants who provided an oral fluid sample stated that they had had an HIV test in the previous 12 months; this proportion is significantly higher when compared to previous study years (50.7% versus 33.8% in 2005, p<0.001). Older age (>25 years) was associated with HIV positivity (1.8% in those <25 versus 6.4% in older ages group) as was a sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis within the previous 12 months (adjusted odds ratio 2.13, 95% CI 1.09–4.14). There was no significant association between age and having an STI or age and any of the sexual behaviours recorded. Conclusion HIV transmission continues to occur among gay and bisexual men in Scotland. Despite evidence of recent testing within the previous six months, suggesting a willingness to test, the current opt-out policy may have reached its limit with regards to maximising HIV test uptake. Novel strategies are required to improve regular testing opportunities and more frequent testing as there are implications for the use of other biomedical HIV interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley A. Wallace
- Health Protection Scotland, National Services Scotland, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Jessica Li
- Section of Public Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa M. McDaid
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Underhill K. Legal and ethical values in the resolution of research-related disputes: how can IRBS respond to participant complaints? J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2014; 9:71-82. [PMID: 24572085 DOI: 10.1525/jer.2014.9.1.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Under US federal regulations, participants providing informed consent must receive information regarding whom to contact in case of a research-related injury or complaint. Although informed consent processes routinely direct participants to contact institutional review boards (IRBs) with questions or concerns, there has been little empirical study of the ways in which IRBs act to resolve participants' research-related complaints. This article explores available literature on participant complaints, considers the responsibilities of IRBs in dispute resolution, and outlines a research agenda. As a case study, this review considers disputes arising from HIV/AIDS research, focusing on novel issues arising from biomedical HIV prevention trials.
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Jiang J, Yang X, Ye L, Zhou B, Ning C, Huang J, Liang B, Zhong X, Huang A, Tao R, Cao C, Chen H, Liang H. Pre-exposure prophylaxis for the prevention of HIV infection in high risk populations: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS One 2014; 9:e87674. [PMID: 24498350 PMCID: PMC3912017 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0087674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 12/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nearly ten randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have been completed or are ongoing worldwide to evaluate the effectiveness of PrEP in HIV transmission among HIV-uninfected high risk populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of PrEP to prevent HIV transmission through a Mata-analysis. METHODS A comprehensive computerized literature search was carried out in PubMed, EMbase, Ovid, Web of Science, Science Direct, Wan Fang, CNKI and related websites to collect relevant articles (from their establishment date to August 30, 2013). The search terms were "pre-exposure prophylaxis", "high risk population", "HIV infection", "reduction", "relative risk" and "efficacy". We included any RCT assessing PrEP for the prevention of HIV infection in high risk populations. Interventions of the studies were continuously daily or intermittent doses of single or compound antiretrovirals (ARVs) before HIV exposure or during HIV exposure. A meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 10.0. A random-effects method was used to calculate the pooled relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for all studies included. RESULTS Seven RCTs involving 14,804 individuals in high risk populations were eligible for this study. The number of subjects in the experimental groups was 8,195, with HIV infection rate of 2.03%. The number of subjects in the control groups was 6,609, with HIV infection rate of 4.07%. The pooled RR was 0.53 (95% CI = 0.40 ∼ 0.71, P<0.001). The re-analyzed pooled RR were 0.61 (95% CI = 0.48 ∼ 0.77, P<0.001), 0.49 (95% CI = 0.38 ∼ 0.63, P<0.001), respectively, by excluding the largest study or two studies without statistical significance. Publication bias analysis revealed a symmetry funnel plot. The fail-safe number was 1,022. CONCLUSION These results show that PrEP is an effective strategy for reducing new HIV infections in high risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjun Jiang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiaoyi Yang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Li Ye
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Chuanyi Ning
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jiegang Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Bingyu Liang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiaoni Zhong
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ailong Huang
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Renchuan Tao
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Cunwei Cao
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Geriatrics Digestion Department of Internal Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of GuangXi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hao Liang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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