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Dunn Navarra AM, Gormley M, Liang E, Loughran C, Vorderstrasse A, Garcia DR, Rosenberg MG, Fletcher J, Goldsamt LA. Developing and testing a web-based platform for antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence support among adolescents and young adults (AYA) living with HIV. PEC INNOVATION 2024; 4:100263. [PMID: 38463238 PMCID: PMC10920727 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2024.100263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Objective Describe the development and testing of a web-based platform for antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence support among HIV+ adolescents and young adults (AYA) in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Methods A seven-member multi-disciplinary team operationalized the flat, password protected, web-based platform. Manualized protocols guided the objectives and content for each of the eight web-based sessions. Team members evaluated usability and content validity. Client satisfaction and perceived ease of use was evaluated with the first ten HIV+ AYA participants. Results The web-based platform was developed, evaluated, refined, implemented and pilot tested between September 2020 to April 2022. Usability was rated as high; the evaluation of content validity showed an excellent fit between session content and objectives. HIV+ AYA participants (mean age = 24.2 years) were satisfied with the quality, type, and amount of support/education received, and found the platform easy to use, operate, and navigate. Average time spent per session was 6.5 min. Conclusion Findings support the usability, validity, acceptability, and feasibility of this web-based platform for ART adherence support among HIV+ AYA. Innovation Our research and findings are responsive to research gaps and the need for transparency in the methodological development and testing of web-based control arms for ART adherence support among HIV+ AYA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Margaret Dunn Navarra
- StonyBrook University, School of Nursing, 101 Nicolls Road, Health Sciences Center, Level 2, StonyBrook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Maurade Gormley
- University of Connecticut, School of Nursing, 231 Glenbrook Road, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Eva Liang
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 380 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Claire Loughran
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 380 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Allison Vorderstrasse
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Elaine Marieb College of Nursing, 651 N Pleasant St., Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - David R. Garcia
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Michael G. Rosenberg
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Jason Fletcher
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Lloyd A. Goldsamt
- New York University, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
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Parihar A, Vishwakarma P, Khan R. Miniaturized MXene-based electrochemical biosensors for virus detection. Bioelectrochemistry 2024; 158:108700. [PMID: 38582009 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2024.108700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
The timely control of infectious diseases can prevent the spread of infections and mitigate the significant socio-economic damage witnessed during recent pandemics. Diagnostic methods play a significant role in detecting highly contagious agents, such as viruses, to prevent further transmission. The emergence of advanced point-of-care techniques offers several advantages over conventional approaches for detecting infectious agents. These techniques are highly sensitive, rapid, can be miniaturized, and are cost-effective. Recently, MXene-based 2D nanocomposites have proven beneficial for fabricating electrochemical biosensors due to their suitable electrical, optical, and mechanical properties. This article covers electrochemical biosensors based on MXene nanocomposite for the detection of viruses, along with the associated challenges and future possibilities. Additionally, we highlight various conventional techniques for the detection of infectious agents, discussing their pros and cons. We delve into the challenges faced during the fabrication of MXene-based biosensors and explore future endeavors. It is anticipated that the information presented in this work will pave the way for the development of Point-of-Care (POC) devices capable of sensitive and selective virus detection, enhancing preparedness for ongoing and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpana Parihar
- Industrial Waste Utilization, Nano and Biomaterials, CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute (AMPRI), Hoshangabad Road, Bhopal- 462026, MP, India
| | - Preeti Vishwakarma
- Department of Microbiology, Barkatullah University, Hoshangabad Road, Bhopal- 462026, MP, India
| | - Raju Khan
- Industrial Waste Utilization, Nano and Biomaterials, CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute (AMPRI), Hoshangabad Road, Bhopal- 462026, MP, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad- 201002, India.
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Caster L, Paetz OR, Sayles H, Fey PD, Bares SH. Missed Opportunities for HIV Confirmatory Testing Using an Institutional Testing Algorithm Without Reflex to HIV Nucleic Acid Testing. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:545-547. [PMID: 38989902 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT At our medical center, HIV nucleic acid tests are recommended when the HIV antigen-antibody screening immunoassay and antibody differentiation tests are discordant, but not done reflexively. A retrospective chart review found that 35% of discordant test results did not have HIV nucleic acid test completed as recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Paul D Fey
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology
| | - Sara H Bares
- Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
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Luz PM, Apelian H, Lambert G, Fourmigue A, Dvorakova M, Grace D, Lachowsky N, Hart TA, Moore DM, Skakoon-Sparling S, Cox J. HIV Treatment Optimism Moderates the Relationship between Sexual Risk Behavior and HIV Risk Perception among Urban HIV-negative Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men who have Sex With Men. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:2683-2694. [PMID: 38869761 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04380-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Using baseline data of the Engage Cohort Study, a Canadian study of sexually active gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBM), we evaluated the association between sexual behavior and risk perception among HIV-negative participants and whether HIV treatment optimism moderated this relationship. Participants were recruited by respondent-driven-sampling (RDS). We defined high-risk sexual behavior in the past six months as any condomless anal sex with a casual partner (i.e. not the participant's main partner) with either unknown HIV-status where neither used pre-exposure prophylaxis or with a partner living with HIV having detectable/unknown viral load. We assessed HIV treatment optimism-skepticism using a 12-item scale. RDS-II-weighted adjusted logistic regression models examined associations with risk perception measured by the question "How would you assess your current risk of getting HIV?" (response options were on a 6-point Likert-scale ranging from "very unlikely" to "very likely", dichotomized into "No Perceived Risk" (very unlikely/unlikely) and "Perceived Risk" (somewhat likely/likely/very likely/I think I already have HIV). Of 1961 participants, engagement in high-risk sexual behavior was reported by 155 (17.0%), 62 (12.4%), 128 (17.2%) of participants in Montréal, Toronto, and Vancouver, respectively. High-risk sexual behavior increased the odds of perceived HIV risk (pooled adjusted odds ratio = 2.9, 95%CI = 2.2-3.8). HIV treatment optimism-skepticism scores moderated the relationship: for GBM engaging in high-risk sexual behavior, higher HIV treatment optimism-skepticism scores increased perceived HIV risk. Promoting awareness around advances related to HIV prevention and treatment is important for appropriate risk assessment and for increased engagement in prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula M Luz
- National Institute of Infectious Disease Evandro Chagas, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil.
| | - Herak Apelian
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Gilles Lambert
- Direction régionale de santé publique de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Alain Fourmigue
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Milada Dvorakova
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel Grace
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nathan Lachowsky
- School of Public, Health & Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Trevor A Hart
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David M Moore
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shayna Skakoon-Sparling
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Psychology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Joseph Cox
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Direction régionale de santé publique de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Ile-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Ryan RL, Emmanuel PJ, Sanders LJ. Preventing Behavioral Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infections in Adolescents and Young Adults. Adv Pediatr 2024; 71:87-105. [PMID: 38944491 DOI: 10.1016/j.yapd.2024.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
HIV prevention in adolescents and young adults (AYA) requires a multi-pronged strategy encompassing behavioral, biologic, and structural approaches. This article reviews the epidemiology of HIV infection in the United States and its pathogenesis and transmission. Prevention approaches are discussed in more detail, with an emphasis on how each approach is relevant to AYA populations. Information is summarized in a resource table with links to references and in-depth discussions of the topics reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reed L Ryan
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, 2 Tampa General Circle, 5th Floor, Tampa, FL 33606, USA
| | - Patricia J Emmanuel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, 2 Tampa General Circle, 5th Floor, Suite 5016, Tampa, FL 33606, USA
| | - Lisa J Sanders
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, 2 Tampa General Circle, 5th Floor, Tampa, FL 33606, USA.
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Hage K, Boyd A, Op de Coul ELM, Sarink D, Hoornenborg E, Prins M. Hepatitis C virus infection is uncommon at baseline and during follow-up among individuals using PrEP in the Dutch national PrEP programme between 2019 and 2022. Sex Transm Infect 2024; 100:288-294. [PMID: 38914472 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2024-056169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Studies showed that men who have sex with men (MSM), including those using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), are at increased risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We evaluated HCV prevalence and incidence, along with their associated determinants, in a cohort of PrEP-using individuals in the Netherlands. METHODS In 2019, the Netherlands launched a 5-year national programme that offers subsidised PrEP to eligible individuals. We used prospectively collected data from individuals registered in this programme between 2019 and 2022. Individuals underwent annual testing for HCV antibodies and additional HCV-RNA testing when antibodies were present. We calculated the prevalence of past/current HCV infection at first visit and overall incidence rate (IR) during follow-up. Univariable logistic and Poisson regression models were used to identify determinants associated with past/current prevalent or incident HCV infection, respectively. Behavioural factors referred to those occurring in the previous 6 months. RESULTS A total of 10 563 (n=10 319, 97.7% MSM) were included. At first visit, 66 of 10 563 (0.6%) had a past/current HCV infection, which was associated with older age [odds ratio (OR) per 10 years=1.57, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.31 to 1.88], the use of PrEP before first visit (OR=3.03, 95% CI=1.79 to 5.13), receptive condomless anal sex (CAS) (OR=2.73, 95% CI=1.25 to 5.98), chemsex (OR=2.44, 95% CI=1.49 to 3.99) and injecting drug use (IDU) (OR=6.61, 95% CI=2.35 to 18.61). Among 9851 individuals contributing to 17 150 person-years (PYs) of follow-up, 64 incident HCV infections (IR=0.37 per 100 PYs, 95% CI=0.29 to 0.48) were identified. Factors associated with incident HCV infection were receptive CAS [incidence rate ratio (IRR)=2.59, 95% CI=1.12 to 6.02], chemsex (IRR=1.78, 95% CI=1.06 to 2.98), sexually transmitted infection diagnosis (IRR=2.30, 95% CI=1.23 to 4.31) and IDU (IRR=6.15, 95% CI=2.20 to 17.18). CONCLUSIONS Past/current prevalence and incidence of HCV were low among individuals in the Dutch PrEP programme. Infections were associated with behaviour known to be associated with HCV. Instead of annual HCV testing, as stated in most PrEP care guidelines, testing frequency for HCV could be based on behaviours associated with HCV acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kris Hage
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting hiv monitoring, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eline L M Op de Coul
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Epidemiology and Surveillance, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Danja Sarink
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Epidemiology and Surveillance, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute (APH), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute (APH), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Hong H, Shi X, Liu Y, Feng W, Fang T, Tang C, Xu G. HIV Incidence and Transactional Sex Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Ningbo, China: Prospective Cohort Study Using a WeChat-Based Platform. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e52366. [PMID: 39045869 DOI: 10.2196/52366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Sexual transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) has become the major HIV transmission route. However, limited research has been conducted to investigate the association between transactional sex (TS) and HIV incidence in China. Objective This study aims to investigate HIV incidence and distinguish sociodemographic and sexual behavioral risk factors associated with HIV incidence among MSM who engage in TS (MSM-TS) in China. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study using a WeChat-based platform to evaluate HIV incidence among Chinese MSM, including MSM-TS in Ningbo, recruited from July 2019 until June 2022. At each visit, participants completed a questionnaire and scheduled an appointment for HIV counseling and testing on the WeChat-based platform before undergoing offline HIV tests. HIV incidence density was calculated as the number of HIV seroconversions divided by person-years (PYs) of follow-up, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was conducted to identify factors associated with HIV incidence. Results A total of 932 participants contributed 630.9 PYs of follow-up, and 25 HIV seroconversions were observed during the study period, resulting in an estimated HIV incidence of 4.0 (95% CI 2.7-5.8) per 100 PYs. The HIV incidence among MSM-TS was 18.4 (95% CI 8.7-34.7) per 100 PYs, which was significantly higher than the incidence of 3.2 (95% CI 2.1-5.0) per 100 PYs among MSM who do not engage in TS. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, factors associated with HIV acquisition were MSM-TS (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 3.93, 95% CI 1.29-11.93), having unprotected sex with men (aHR 10.35, 95% CI 2.25-47.69), and having multiple male sex partners (aHR 3.43, 95% CI 1.22-9.64) in the past 6 months. Conclusions This study found a high incidence of HIV among MSM-TS in Ningbo, China. The risk factors associated with HIV incidence include TS, having unprotected sex with men, and having multiple male sex partners. These findings emphasize the need for developing targeted interventions and providing comprehensive medical care, HIV testing, and preexposure prophylaxis for MSM, particularly those who engage in TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Hong
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaojun Shi
- Beilun Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Ningbo, China
| | - Yuhui Liu
- Ningbo Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Ningbo, China
| | - Wei Feng
- Fenghua Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Ningbo, China
| | - Ting Fang
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chunlan Tang
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Guozhang Xu
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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Matsuda EM, da Silva Santos JH, Ahagon CM, Lopes GISL, Brigido LFDM. Transmitted antiretroviral drug resistance to Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors class in São Paulo metropolitan area, Brazil. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2024. [PMID: 39041595 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2023.0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives A newer Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor (INSTI) cabotegravir was recently approved for both therapy and prophylaxis and can play an essential role in the fight against AIDS. It shares similar resistance profile to dolutegravir, the cornerstone of Brazilian antiretroviral treatment (ARV), with about 600 thousand people living with HIV in Brazil currently on regimens that contain this INSTI. Health services in the São Paulo metropolitan area are responsible to a large proportion of ARV dispensation in the country. Estimating Transmitted Drug Resistance Mutation (TDRM) in the area before cabotegravir introduction may provide a useful baseline information. Methods Partial HIV-1 pol gene was sequenced (Sanger) from 192 newly diagnosed individuals from São Paulo and nearby cities (2020 to March 2023) at integrase, with 85 also at protease/reverse transcriptase regions. Retrotranscribed plasma RNA, amplified with nested PCR, was edited (Recall or Sequencher) and analyzed at Rega and Stanford db. Results Surveillance DRM (SDRM) to INSTI class was detected in three cases (1.6% CI95% 0.5%-5%), two E138K and one R263K, with 7.8% (CI95% 5%-13%) with resistance mutations (major or accessory). SDRM for NRTI, NNRTI, and PI classes were identified in 7 (8.2% CI95% 4%-16%) cases. Subtype B predominated (69%), followed by subtype C (16%), now the second most prevalent infection in this area. Among 131 patients treated for over six months, 92% were virally suppressed below 200 copies/mL, with low TCD4 counts independently associated to failure. Conclusions SDRM to INSTI class is rare in the area. Intermediate rates of transmitted resistance to other ARV classes are comparable to previous estimates. Viral suppression rates may depend on TCD4 counts, another negative impact of late diagnosis in care that deserves more attention.
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Dunn RC, Stegall CJ, Creel C, Fuchs CJ, Menzies BE, Summers NA. Evaluating the delivery of care by telemedicine for incarcerated people living with HIV: a cohort study. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:717. [PMID: 39039476 PMCID: PMC11265178 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09528-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of telemedicine has grown significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic and has the potential to improve access to specialized care for otherwise underserved populations. Incarcerated people living with HIV (PLWH) could potentially benefit from expanded access to HIV care through telemedicine. METHODS All PLWH who were incarcerated within the Tennessee Department of Corrections and received care through the HIV telemedicine clinic at Regional One Hospital between 5/1/2019 through 2/28/2022 were identified from the electronic health records (EHR). Demographics, laboratory data, vaccine history, and treatment outcomes were abstracted from the EHR. Retention in care and viral suppression were defined using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definitions. RESULTS Of the 283 incarcerated PLWH receiving care from this telemedicine clinic, 78% remained retained in care and 94% achieved or maintaining viral suppression at 12 months. Many preventative care measures remained unperformed or undocumented, including vaccinations and testing for concurrent sexually transmitted infections. There were 56 patients (20%) found to have chronic hepatitis C in this population, with 71% either cured or still on treatment in this study period. CONCLUSIONS Retention in care and viral suppression rates were excellent among incarcerated PLWH receiving telemedicine care for their HIV. HIV related primary health care screenings and vaccinations, however, were less consistently documented and represent areas for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth C Dunn
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Cassidy J Stegall
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Colten Creel
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Christian J Fuchs
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Barbara E Menzies
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Nathan A Summers
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA.
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Miller SJ, Weaver KE, Harrison SE. A multi-informant qualitative analysis of desired features for an mHealth tool for youth living with HIV in South Carolina. J Pediatr Psychol 2024:jsae047. [PMID: 38976587 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsae047] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Youth living with HIV (YLHIV) in the southern United States experience poor outcomes across the HIV care continuum and are at high-risk for virologic failure. This study used a qualitative, community-engaged approach to inform the development of a tailored mobile Health (mHealth) tool for YLHIV in South Carolina (SC). METHODS Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with YLHIV in SC (n = 16) and their HIV care providers (n = 15). Focus group discussions (FGDs) were also conducted with HIV-focused community-based organization staff (n = 23). Interviews and FGDs queried desired components for a future mHealth tool tailored for YLHIV. Data were analyzed using a team-based rapid qualitative approach. RESULTS Across informants, key themes emerged related to medical management of HIV, including a desire for connections with medical providers, appointment and medication reminders, and accurate HIV information. In addition, informants voiced a desire for mental health resources to be integrated into the app. Connection with HIV-positive peers also emerged as a key desire from youth informants. In terms of app design, informants emphasized the need for strict privacy practices, a youth-friendly design, compensation for use, and integration with existing healthcare systems. CONCLUSIONS mHealth interventions developed for YLHIV should meet the mental health and social needs of YLHIV in addition to their medical needs. In addition, the highly stigmatized nature of HIV requires careful consideration when designing digital tools-youth want their privacy prioritized, but also express strong desire for social support to help cope with the isolation and stigma of this chronic health condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Miller
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Katherine E Weaver
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Sayward E Harrison
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
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Richterman A, O'Brien C, Ghadimi F, Sumners E, Ford A, Houston N, Tate S, Aitcheson N, Nkwihoreze H, Jemmott JB, Momplaisir F. Acceptability, facilitators, and barriers to a hypothetical HIV vaccine in the pre-exposure prophylaxis era. AIDS Care 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38961850 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2372715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Little is known about the pre-implementation context for a preventive HIV vaccine. We conducted interviews of individuals in Philadelphia recruited at Penn clinics and community-based organizations serving LGBTQ-identifying persons of color who 1) were cisgender men who had sex with men, or were transgender-identified, 2) had a sexually transmitted infection in the last 12 months, or sex with multiple partners within the last two weeks. We assessed acceptability, facilitators, and barriers to a hypothetical HIV vaccine using an integrated analysis approach. We interviewed 30 individuals between 2/2023-9/2023. Participants were supportive of an HIV vaccine and reported that they would strongly consider receiving one if one became available. Participants contextualized a hypothetical vaccine with the current HIV prevention context, primarily pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), indicating that they would evaluate any future vaccine in comparison to their experience within the PrEP landscape.Reported facilitators for a hypothetical HIV vaccine included vaccine access, knowledge, and understanding; their risk for HIV exposure; and perceived benefits of the vaccine. Barriers included lack of understanding of the purpose of a vaccine, stigma surrounding HIV and sexual practices that may surface towards people who seek vaccination, and potential issues with effectiveness, side effects, or lack of availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Richterman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Penn Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Caroline O'Brien
- Mixed Methods Research Laboratory, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Fatemeh Ghadimi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Andre Ford
- The COLOURS Organization, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Sebrina Tate
- Bebashi-Transition to Hope, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nancy Aitcheson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Penn Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hervette Nkwihoreze
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John B Jemmott
- Annenberg School of Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Florence Momplaisir
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Penn Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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12
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Quee FA, Slot E, van Leeuwen I, Brands R, Franssen EJF, Hogema BM, Zaaijer HL, van de Laar TJW. Blood safety markers in Dutch donors after relaxation of deferral for men who have sex with men: re-emergence of syphilis and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis use. Transfusion 2024. [PMID: 38963400 DOI: 10.1111/trf.17941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Less discriminatory donor selection policies for men who have sex with men (MSM) may impact transfusion safety in terms of higher residual risks for known transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs), increased vulnerability toward new TTIs that are also transmitted via sex, and HIV infections masked by pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS TTI trends in Dutch donors were studied over a 13-year period (2011-2023), characterized by successive relaxations of MSM deferral criteria. Structured posttest counseling was performed to determine risk factors in TTI-positive donors. PrEP drug levels were measured in 9977 donations from male donors living in urban areas and in 67 donors with active or resolved syphilis. RESULTS HIV incidence (from 5.8 to 1.5 per 1,000,000 donor years (DY)) and HBV incidence (from 12.4 to 4.5 per 1,000,000 DY) in Dutch donors decreased with less stringent MSM deferral criteria, while syphilis prevalence (from 26.4 to 44.1 per 100,000 new donors) and syphilis incidence (from 18.3 to 46.3 per 1,000,000 DY) increased over time. The proportion of MSM-related syphilis rose from 2% to 32% in new donors and from 12% to 27% in repeat donors. PrEP was detected in 2 of 9977 (0.02%) donations from male donors living in urban areas, and in 1 of 39 (2.6%) male donors with syphilis. DISCUSSION To date, phasing out donor deferral for MSM had no significant impact on transfusion safety in the Netherlands. However, rising syphilis rates and (recent) PrEP use in the blood donor population, albeit rare, suggest an influx of donors with higher sexual risk profiles and requires intensified TTI surveillance in donors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franke A Quee
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health (APH) Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ed Slot
- Department of Medical Affairs, Sanquin Corporate Staff, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ingeborg van Leeuwen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ralph Brands
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric J F Franssen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Boris M Hogema
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Virology, Sanquin Diagnostic Services, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hans L Zaaijer
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Virology, Sanquin Diagnostic Services, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thijs J W van de Laar
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Virology, Sanquin Diagnostic Services, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Grobman B, Silverberg MJ, Marcus JL. Life and Disability Insurance for People with or at Risk of HIV: Aligning Policy with Evidence. J Insur Med 2024; 51:25-28. [PMID: 38802086 DOI: 10.17849/insm-51-1-25-28.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Antiretroviral medications have substantially improved life expectancy for people with HIV. These medications are also highly effective in preventing HIV acquisition in people who do not have HIV, a strategy known as HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Despite these advances, some life and disability insurers continue to deny or limit coverage for people with HIV, and some have even refused to cover people who are using PrEP to protect themselves. These policies unfairly deny people with HIV, PrEP users, and their families the peace of mind and financial protection that can come with life and disability insurance coverage. This article summarizes the current evidence on HIV treatment and prevention, arguing that underwriting decisions by life and disability insurers should not be made based on HIV status or use of PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julia L Marcus
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA
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14
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Dinesha TR, Boobalan J, Kumar CV, Manikandan P, Muhila M, Solomon SS, Srikrishnan AK, Murugavel KG. HIV-1 low-level viraemia predicts virological failure in first-line and second-line ART-experienced individuals in India: A retrospective longitudinal study. HIV Med 2024; 25:852-861. [PMID: 38663865 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the prevalence of low-level viraemia (LLV) and its association with virological failure (VF). METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of 3498 participants at YRG CARE, Chennai, India (2013-2018) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥6 months with two or more plasma viral load (pVL) measurements. Results were stratified for those with pVL <1000 copies/mL: fully suppressed (FS) (pVL <40), low-LLV (pVL 40-199), mid-LLV (pVL 200-399), and high-LLV (pVL 400-999). The study assessed the association with VF (pVL >1000 copies/mL) using Cox proportional hazard model. RESULTS Among 3498 participants, 2965 (84.8%) were FS and 533 (15.2%) were LLV. During the follow-up, 348 (10%) experienced VF, with 222 (6.3%) experienced after LLV (42% of LLV) and 126 (3.6%) experienced after FS (4.3% of FS). When compared with FS, those with LLV had a greater risk of VF [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 12.7; 95% confidence interval (CI): 10.2-15.9]. First-line participants had a higher VF incidence (aHR = 15.8, 95% CI: 11.4-21.9) than second-line participants (aHR = 5.6, 95% CI: 4.1-7.7). Those with high-LLV had the highest VF risk (aHR = 22.856, 95% CI: 15.204-34.359 vs. aHR = 8.186, 95% CI: 5.564-12.043, for first-line vs. second-line participants, respectively), followed by those with mid-LLV (aHR = 13.375, 95% CI: 8.327-21.483 vs. aHR = 6.261, 95% CI: 4.044-9.695) and low-LLV (aHR = 12.976, 95% CI: 7.974-21.118 vs. aHR = 4.158, 95% CI: 2.826-6.119). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of LLV was intermediate in our study population. There was a higher risk of VF among individuals with LLV, and this risk increased with the increasing levels of LLV. Close monitoring of individuals experiencing LLV could help in the early identification of VF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jayaseelan Boobalan
- Y.R. Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education (YRG CARE), Chennai, India
| | | | | | - Mohanarangan Muhila
- Y.R. Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education (YRG CARE), Chennai, India
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15
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Calabrese SK, Zaheer MA, Flores JJ, Kalwicz DA, Modrakovic DX, Rao S, Dovidio JF, Zea MC, Eaton LA. Messaging About HIV Transmission Risk When Viral Load Is Undetectable: Reactions and Perceived Accuracy Among US Sexual Minority Men. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:270-279. [PMID: 38905477 PMCID: PMC11196007 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scientific evidence indicates that HIV viral suppression to an undetectable level eliminates sexual transmission risk ("Undetectable=Untransmittable" or "U=U"). However, U=U messaging has been met with skepticism among sexual minority men (SMM) and others. In this survey-based experiment, we manipulated messaging about HIV risk and examined reactions and perceived message accuracy among US SMM. METHODS SMM living with HIV (n = 106) and HIV-negative/status-unknown SMM (n = 351) participated in an online survey (2019-2020). Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 messaging conditions, which varied by level of HIV sexual transmission risk associated with an undetectable viral load (No Risk [U=U]/Low Risk/Control). Participants reported reactions, message accuracy, and reasons for perceiving inaccuracy. We coded open-response data (reactions and reasons) into conceptual categories (eg, "Enthusiasm"). We compared reactions, accuracy ratings, and reasons by condition and serostatus. RESULTS In the No Risk Condition, common reactions were Enthusiasm (40.0%), Skepticism/Disagreement (20.0%), and Agreement (19.4%), reactions common to comparison conditions. A higher percentage of HIV-negative/status-unknown participants (24.1%) expressed Skepticism/Disagreement in the No Risk Condition compared with other conditions (3.2%-9.7%). Participants living with HIV were more likely than HIV-negative/status-unknown participants to perceive the message as accurate in all conditions. In the No Risk Condition, common reasons for perceiving inaccuracy were Risk Misstated (46.1%), Oversimplified/Caveats Needed (17.1%), and Personal Unfamiliarity/Uncertainty (14.5%), reasons common to comparison conditions. Across conditions, 10.3% of participants attributed message inaccuracy to undetectable being misdefined. CONCLUSION Most SMM reacted favorably to U=U messaging. However, many-especially HIV-negative/status-unknown SMM-expressed skepticism. Interventions are needed to enhance U=U understanding and acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K. Calabrese
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Myra A. Zaheer
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Justino J. Flores
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - David A. Kalwicz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Djordje X. Modrakovic
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sharanya Rao
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - John F. Dovidio
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Maria Cecilia Zea
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lisa A. Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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Kostaki EG, Roussos S, Kefala AM, Limnaios S, Psichogiou M, Papachristou E, Nikolopoulos G, Flountzi E, Friedman SR, Lagiou P, Hatzakis A, Sypsa V, Magiorkinis G, Beloukas A, Paraskevis D. Molecular epidemiology of HIV among people who inject drugs after the HIV-outbreak in Athens, Greece: Evidence for a 'slow burn' outbreak. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 121:105597. [PMID: 38663466 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New diagnoses of HIV-1 infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Athens, Greece, saw a significant increase in 2011 and a subsequent decline after 2013. Despite this, ongoing HIV-1 transmission persisted from 2014 to 2020 within this population. Our objective was to estimate the time of infection for PWID in Athens following the HIV-1 outbreak, explore the patterns of HIV-1 dispersal over time, and determine the duration from infection to diagnosis. METHODS Time from HIV-1 infection to diagnosis was estimated for 844 individuals infected within 4 PWID-specific clusters and for 8 PWID infected with sub-subtype A6 diagnosed during 2010-2019. Phylogeny reconstruction was performed using the maximum-likelihood method. HIV-1 infection dates were based on molecular clock calculations. RESULTS In total 86 of 92 (93.5%) sequences from PWID diagnosed during 2016-2019 were either related to the previously identified PWID-specific clusters (n = 81) or belonged to a new A6 cluster (n = 5). The median time between infection and diagnosis was 0.42 years during the outbreak period and 0.70 years during 2016-2019 (p < 0.001). The proportion of clustered sequences from PWID was very low at 5.3% during the pre-outbreak period (1998-2009), saw an increase to 41.7% one year before the outbreak in 2010, and consistently remained high during the whole period after 2011, spanning the post-outbreak period (2016-2019) with a range from 92.9% to 100%. CONCLUSIONS The substantial proportion of clustered infections (93.5%) during 2016-2019 implies a persistent 'slow burn' HIV outbreak among PWID in Athens, suggesting that the outbreak was not successfully eliminated. The consistently high proportion of clustered sequences since the onset of the outbreak suggests the persistence of ongoing HIV-1 transmission attributed to injection practices. Our findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions among PWID, considering the ongoing transmission rate and prolonged time from infection to diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Georgia Kostaki
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Roussos
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Stefanos Limnaios
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mina Psichogiou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, "Laiko" General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Papachristou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Eleni Flountzi
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Samuel R Friedman
- Center for Opioid Epidemiology and Policy, Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York City, USA
| | - Pagona Lagiou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Angelos Hatzakis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Vana Sypsa
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Gkikas Magiorkinis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Apostolos Beloukas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece; National AIDS Reference Centre of Southern Greece, Department of Public Health Policy, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece.
| | - Dimitrios Paraskevis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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Shanley A, O’Donnell K, Weatherburn P, Gilmore J, Witzel TC. Understanding sexual health service access for gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men in Ireland during the COVID-19 crisis: Findings from the EMERGE survey. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306280. [PMID: 38950031 PMCID: PMC11216565 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Republic of Ireland, the COVID-19 crisis led to sexual health service closures while clinical staff were redeployed to the pandemic response. Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) face pre-existing sexual health inequalities which may have been exacerbated. The aim of this study is to understand sexual health service accessibility for gbMSM in Ireland during the COVID-19 crisis. METHODS EMERGE recruited 980 gbMSM in Ireland (June-July 2021) to an anonymous online survey investigating well-being and service access through geo-location sexual networking apps (Grindr/Growlr), social media (Facebook/Instagram/Twitter) and collaborators. We fit multiple regression models reporting odds ratios (ORs) to understand how demographic and behavioural characteristics (age, sexual orientation, HIV testing history/status, region of residence, region of birth and education) were associated with ability to access services. RESULTS Of the respondents, 410 gbMSM accessed sexual health services with some or no difficulty and 176 attempted but were unable to access services during the COVID-19 crisis. A further 382 gbMSM did not attempt to access services and were excluded from this sample and analysis. Baseline: mean age 35.4 years, 88% gay, 83% previously tested for HIV, 69% Dublin-based, 71% born in Ireland and 74% with high level of education. In multiple regression, gbMSM aged 56+ years (aOR = 0.38, 95%CI:0.16, 0.88), not previously tested for HIV (aOR = 0.46, 95%CI:0.23, 0.93) and with medium and low education (aOR = 0.55 95%CI:0.35, 0.85) had lowest odds of successfully accessing services. GbMSM with HIV were most likely to be able to access services successfully (aOR = 2.68 95%CI:1.83, 6.08). Most disrupted services were: STI testing, HIV testing and PrEP. CONCLUSIONS Service access difficulties were found to largely map onto pre-existing sexual health inequalities for gbMSM. Future service development efforts should prioritise (re)engaging older gbMSM, those who have not previously tested for HIV and those without high levels of education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate O’Donnell
- HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter Weatherburn
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - T. Charles Witzel
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Chromy D, Heissenberger D, Lippert K, Heger F, Indra A, Hyden P, Bauer WM, Grabmeier-Pfistershammer K, Willinger B, Weninger W, Pleininger S, Geusau A. Genotypic cluster analysis of Neisseria gonorrhoeae reveals a spectrum of sexual mixing including among HIV-serodiscordant men who have sex with men. Infect Dis (Lond) 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38907951 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2024.2339864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) are more vulnerable to acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In 2019, for instance, 74% of European Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) cases among males affected MSM. A recent report by the World Health Organization showed that most of the 2020' interim targets to end STIs by 2030 had not been met. A broadened understanding of STI transmission networks could guide future elimination strategies and reduce the STI burden. Therefore, we used whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to determine Ng-clusters and assess sexual mixing. METHODS WGS was performed on Ng-isolates collected at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria and was used for core genome multi-locus sequencing typing cluster analysis. Epidemiologic and infection-specific details were extracted from medical records. RESULTS Genomic analysis and demographic data were available for 415 isolates, and 43.9% (182/415) were allocated to 31 Ng-clusters. Nine clusters comprised samples from heterosexual individuals only (women N = 4, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative men N = 49, HIV-positive man N = 1), nine clusters included MSM only (HIV-negative N = 22, HIV-positive N = 13) and 13 clusters included both heterosexuals and MSM (HIV-negative N = 75, HIV-positive N = 18). Current use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) was reported by 22.8% of MSM. In multivariate analysis, only 'MSM' predicted clustering with isolates from HIV-positive individuals (adjusted odds ratio 10.24 (95% CI 5.02-20.90)). CONCLUSIONS Sexual mixing of HIV-positive, HIV-negative MSM and non-MSM was frequently observed. Furthermore, HIV-serodiscordant clustering highlights the importance of PrEP rollout to avert HIV transmission. Our findings can inform future STI prevention strategies and continuous surveillance efforts are required to keep up with transmission dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Chromy
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Kathrin Lippert
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Heger
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Indra
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety, Vienna, Austria
- Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Patrick Hyden
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Birgit Willinger
- Department of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Division of Clinical Microbiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Weninger
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sonja Pleininger
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Geusau
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Huang HY, Huang YC, Lo HY, Chan PC, Lee CC. Changing how the third 95 is counted: suitable indicators for measuring U = U with findings from Taiwan. AIDS Res Ther 2024; 21:41. [PMID: 38902777 PMCID: PMC11188191 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-024-00626-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The World Health Organisation has implemented multiple HIV prevention policies and strived to achieve the 90-90-90 goal by 2020, achieving the 95-95-95 goal by 2030, which refers to 95% of patients living with HIV knowing their HIV status, 95% of patients living with HIV receiving continual care and medication, and 95% of patients living with HIV exhibiting viral suppression. However, how to measure the status of viral suppression varies, and it is hard to indicate the quality of HIV care. The study aimed to examine the long-term viral load suppression in these cases and explore potential factors affecting the control of long-term viral load. METHODS This study analyzed viral load testing data from HIV patients who are still alive during the period from notification up to 2019-2020. Three indicators were calculated, including durable viral suppression, Viremia copy-years, and Viral load > 1,500 copies/ml, to assess the differences between them. RESULTS Among the 27,706 cases included in the study, the proportion of persistent viral load suppression was 87%, with 4% having viral loads exceeding 1,500 copies/ml. The average duration from notification to viral load suppression was 154 days, and the geometric mean of annual viral replication was 90 copies*years/ml. Regarding the last available viral load measurement, 96% of cases had an undetectable viral load. However, we observed that 9.3% of cases, while having an undetectable viral load for their last measurement, did not show consistent long-term viral load suppression. An analysis of factors associated with non-persistent viral load suppression revealed higher risk in younger age groups, individuals with an educational level of high school or below, injection drug users, cases from the eastern region, those seeking care at regional hospitals, cases with drug resistance data, individuals with lower healthcare continuity, and those with an initial CD4 count below 350 during the study period. CONCLUSIONS The recommendation is to combine it with the indicator of sustained viral load suppression for a more accurate assessment of the risk of HIV transmission within the infected community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Yin Huang
- Division of Chronic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Diseases Control, No. 6 Linsen South Road, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ching Huang
- National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Hsiu-Yun Lo
- Division of Chronic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Diseases Control, No. 6 Linsen South Road, Taipei, 100, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Chun Chan
- Division of Chronic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Diseases Control, No. 6 Linsen South Road, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chi Lee
- Division of Chronic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Diseases Control, No. 6 Linsen South Road, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
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20
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He L, Pan X, Yang J, Zheng J, Luo M, Cheng W, Chai C. Current syphilis infection in virally suppressed people living with HIV: a cross-sectional study in eastern China. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1366795. [PMID: 38962784 PMCID: PMC11220119 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1366795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been shown to reduce human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral replication and ultimately achieve viral suppression and eliminate HIV transmission. However, little is known about the impact of viral suppression on high-risk behaviors and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Objective This study aimed to assess the rates of current syphilis infection in virally suppressed people living with HIV (PLWH) and whether with the duration of ART can reduce the current syphilis infection in eastern China. Method We conducted a cross-sectional survey of PLWH in Zhejiang Province, China, in 2022. PLWH who were on ART >6 months and were virally suppressed (viral load <50 copies/mL) were included in the study. Data were collected from the National Epidemiological Database of Zhejiang Province and all participants were tested for viral load and current syphilis. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with current syphilis infection. Result A total of 30,744 participants were included in the analysis. 82.7% of participants were male, the mean age was 44.9 ± 14.1 years, 84.9% had received ART in a hospital setting, the mean time on ART was 5.9 ± 3.1 years and 5.6% of participants were infected with current syphilis. Multivariable logistic regression showed that being male [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.12, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.69-2.66], high level of education (aOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.02-1.49), homosexual route of HIV infection (aOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.60-2.04), non-local registered residence (aOR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.11-1.51), had history of STIs before HIV diagnosis (aOR: 1.95, 95 % CI: 1.75-2.18) and treatment provided by a municipal hospital (aOR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.31-3.55) were associated with increased risk of current syphilis infection. Being married (aOR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.58-0.76) was associated with a decreased risk of current syphilis infection. Conclusion Our findings revealed a high rate of current syphilis infection among virally suppressed PLWH in eastern China. Duration of ART did not reduce the prevalence of current syphilis infection. Targeted interventions to reduce current syphilis infection should be prioritized for subgroups at higher risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaohong Pan
- Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Lau LHW, Lee MP, Wong BCK, Kwong TS, Hui WM, Chan JMC, Lee SS. HIV-related public stigma in the era of "Undetectable = Untransmittable": a population-based study in Hong Kong. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1517. [PMID: 38844889 PMCID: PMC11155177 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18974-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While global efforts are increasingly relying upon biomedical advancements such as antiretroviral therapy and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to end the HIV epidemic, HIV-related stigma remains a concern. This study aimed to assess the general public's awareness and perception of "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U = U) and PrEP, and the patterns of public stigma towards people living with HIV (PLWH) and their determinants in an Asian Pacific city. METHODS A population-based, self-administrated online survey was conducted between 10-20 March 2023. All adults aged ≥ 18 years and currently living in Hong Kong were eligible. Participants' socio-demographic characteristics, awareness and perception of U = U and PrEP, as well as HIV-related stigma drivers, experience and practices were collected. Latent class analysis was used to delineate population subgroups based on their stigma profiles as reflected by 1.) fear of infection, 2.) concern about socioeconomic ramification of the disease, 3.) social norm enforcement, 4.) perceived stigma in the community, and 5.) stigmatising behaviours and discriminatory attitudes. Memberships of identified subgroups were then correlated with sociodemographic factors, awareness and perception of U = U and PrEP, using multinominal logistic regression. RESULTS Responses from a total of 3070 participants (55% male; 79% aged 18-54) were analysed. A majority, 69% and 81%, indicated that they had never heard of U = U and PrEP respectively, and only 39-40% of participants perceived these to be effective in protection from HIV. Four distinct subgroups were identified, namely "Low stigma" (37%), "Modest stigma" (24%), "Moderate stigma" (24%), and "High stigma" (15%). Compared with "Low stigma", lack of awareness of and/or negative perceptions towards U = U and/or PrEP, not knowing any PLWH were associated with increased odds of higher stigma group membership. Lower educational level and not in employment were associated with increased odds of membership in "Moderate stigma" and "High stigma". While older people were more likely to belong to "High stigma", female were more likely to belong to "Moderate stigma". "Modest stigma" included more younger people who were economically active. CONCLUSION Two-thirds of participants endorsed modest-to-high HIV-related stigma, suggesting the prevalence of HIV-related stigma was high among the general population in Hong Kong. Tailored interventions targeting specific stigma drivers and manifestations of individuals as reflected from the stigma profiles of distinct subgroups could form an important strategy for stigma reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Man-Po Lee
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bonnie Chun-Kwan Wong
- Department of Health, Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tsz-Shan Kwong
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai-Man Hui
- Department of Medicine, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jacky Man-Chun Chan
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shui-Shan Lee
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- S.H. Ho Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- Postgraduate Education Centre, Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
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22
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Panton L. Injectable antiretroviral therapy: best practice guide for nurses providing care to people living with HIV. BRITISH JOURNAL OF NURSING (MARK ALLEN PUBLISHING) 2024; 33:S12-S17. [PMID: 38850143 DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2024.0146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Oral antiretroviral therapy (ART) is extremely effective, allowing people living with HIV to have a normal life expectancy. Most treatments consist of oral tablets that must be taken at the same time every day for the rest of an individual's life. For a variety of reasons, some people cannot adhere to a daily regimen, resulting in a deterioration in their health. The introduction in 2021 of long-acting injectable ART has provided an alternative option for those who would prefer not to take oral therapy. This article provides an overview of the practicalities and challenges of setting up nurse clinics to administer these injections. It also highlights how this type of treatment has improved the quality of life for people receiving them. HIV nurse specialists are leading the way in delivering this innovative new treatment, and the article concludes by discussing which patients may benefit from injectables in the future. This guide is aimed at nurses who work within the HIV field or are supporting this treatment in other settings, for example in outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Panton
- Senior Charge Nurse and HIV Nurse Lead, Regional Infectious Diseases Unit, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh
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23
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Bogers S, Boyd A, Schim van der Loeff M, Geerlings S, Davidovich U. Opportunities for improved indicator-based HIV testing in the hospital setting: a structural equation model analysis. AIDS Care 2024; 36:840-848. [PMID: 37683267 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2254548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Indicator condition (IC)-guided HIV testing, i.e., testing when diagnosing a condition associated with HIV, is a feasible and cost-effective testing strategy to identify undiagnosed individuals. Assessing determinants for IC-guided testing may identify opportunities for improvement. A survey study based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) was conducted among 163 hospital physicians from five specialties in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Structural equation models were used to determine the association between the TPB domains (i.e., attitude, belief, norms, self-efficacy and behavioural control) and (1) the intention to test as a mediator for HIV testing behaviour (intentional model) and (2) actual HIV testing behaviour (direct model). Both models accounted for the effect of guideline recommendations. Behaviour scored lower than intention on a five-point scale (mean score of 2.8, SD = 1.6 versus 3.8, SD = 1.1; p<0.0001). The direct model had a better fit than the intentional model based on fit statistics. Discrepancies between the determinants most important for intention versus those for behaviour led to the following recommendations: interventions to improve IC-guided testing in hospitals should primarily focus on implementation of guideline recommendations, followed by improving physicians' attitude towards IC-guided HIV testing and self-efficacy, as these were the most important correlates of actual HIV testing behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Bogers
- Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Infectious diseases, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Infectious diseases, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Schim van der Loeff
- Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Infectious diseases, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne Geerlings
- Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Infectious diseases, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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24
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Hanum N, Cambiano V, Loncar D, Mandalia S, Sharp A, Lwanga J, Tiraboschi J, Phillips AN, Lampe FC, Beck EJ, Fox J. Behaviour changes following HIV diagnosis among men who have sex with men in the era of treatment as prevention: data from a prospective study. AIDS Care 2024; 36:711-731. [PMID: 37527426 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2230884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
We described the longitudinal changes in sexual behaviour and associated factors among newly diagnosed with HIV men who have sex with men participating in a prospective observational study from a London HIV clinic (2015-2018). Participants self-completed questionnaires at baseline, months 3 and 12. Information collected included socio-demographic, sexual behaviour, health, lifestyle and social support. Trends in sexual behaviours over one year following diagnosis and associated factors were assessed using generalized estimating equations with logit link. Condomless sex (CLS) dropped from 62.2% at baseline to 47.6% at month-three but increased again to 61.8% at month-12 (p-trend = 0.790). Serodiscordant-CLS increased between month-three and month-12 (from 13.1% to 35.6%, p-trend < 0.001). The prevalence of serodiscordant-CLS with high risk of transmitting to their partners at month-three was 10.7%. CLS was higher among men who reported recreational drug use (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 3.03, 95%CI 1.47-6.24, p = 0.003), those with undetectable viral load (aOR 2.17, 95%CI 1.22-3.84, p = 0.008) and those who agreed with a statement "condoms are not necessary when HIV viral load is undetectable" (aOR 3.41, 95%CI 1.58-7.38, p = 0.002). MSM continued to engage in CLS after HIV diagnosis, which coincided with U = U publications and increased throughout the study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dejan Loncar
- University of Geneva Institute of Global Health, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Alice Sharp
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Eduard J Beck
- NPMS-HHC CIC, London, UK
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julie Fox
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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25
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Evangeli M, Gnan G, Musiime V, Fidler S, Seeley J, Frize G, Uwizera A, Lisi M, Foster C. The HIV Empowering Adults' Decisions to Share: UK/Uganda (HEADS-UP) Study-A Randomised Feasibility Trial of an HIV Disclosure Intervention for Young Adults with Perinatally Acquired HIV. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1947-1964. [PMID: 38491226 PMCID: PMC11161430 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04294-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Young adults with perinatally acquired HIV (PAH) face numerous challenges, including antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, managing onward HIV transmission risks and maintaining wellbeing. Sharing one's HIV status with others (onward HIV disclosure) may assist with these challenges but this is difficult. We developed and tested the feasibility of an intervention to help HIV status sharing decision-making for young adults with PAH. The study used a randomised parallel group feasibility design with 18-25-year-olds in Uganda and 18-29 year-olds in the UK. Participants were randomly assigned to intervention or standard of care (SOC) condition. The intervention consisted of four sessions (3 group, 1 individual) with follow-up support, delivered in person in Uganda and remotely in the UK. Assessments were carried out at: Pre-intervention /baseline; Post-intervention (intervention group only); Six-month follow-up. 142 participants were recruited (94 Uganda, 48 UK; 89 female, 53 male). At six-month follow-up, 92/94 (98%) participants were retained in Uganda, 25/48 (52%) in the UK. Multivariate analysis of combined data from both countries, showed a non-significant effect of intervention condition on HIV disclosure cognitions and affect (p = 0.08) and HIV disclosure intention (p = 0.09). There was a significant intervention effect on well-being (p = 0.005). This study addressed important gaps in understanding acceptable and feasible ways of delivering HIV status sharing support for young people living with PAH across two very different settings. The intervention was acceptable in both countries and feasible in Uganda. In the UK, retention may have been affected by its remote delivery.Trial registration: ISRCTN Registry, ISRCTN31852047, Registered on 21 January 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Evangeli
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK.
| | - Georgina Gnan
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Victor Musiime
- Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Joint Clinical Research Centre, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sarah Fidler
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, Imperial College NIHR BRC, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Graham Frize
- Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Matteo Lisi
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
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26
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Carrillo I, López de Las Heras M, Martínez SC, Prieto-Pérez L, Álvarez Álvarez B, Waleed Al-Hayani A, Suarez-Inclan JI, Fernandez SL, Luengo PQ, Diaz MEA, Bernal Palacios M, Mathews PA, Bonafont BS, Bravo Ruiz R, Hernández-Segurado M, Górgolas M, Cabello A. Characteristics and rates of infection by HIV in people receiving non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) against HIV. Sex Transm Infect 2024; 100:231-235. [PMID: 38744451 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2024-056109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES The use of non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) emerges as a strategic intervention to reduce HIV infection risk following sexual encounters in our setting. Notwithstanding, there is a scarcity of contemporary data regarding adherence to this treatment, its effectiveness and tolerance. Our study aims to delve into these factors among individuals who have resorted to nPEP after high-risk sexual encounters. METHODS We conducted a retrospective observational study of cases administered nPEP for HIV from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2021 at a tertiary hospital in Madrid. The study included all adults over 18 years who sought care at the emergency department of the Fundación Jiménez Díaz Hospital following a risky sexual encounter and were subsequently recommended HIV nPEP treatment. RESULTS 878 individuals received nPEP for HIV and underwent initial serological tests. Of these, 621 had comprehensive follow-ups. The prescribed regimen for all was raltegravir (RAL) 1200 mg combined with tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) 245/200 mg daily for 28 days. The study revealed a 1.1% rate (n=10) of previously undetected infection and a 0.16% (n=1) failure rate of nPEP. Regarding regimen tolerability, 5.6% (n=35) experienced symptoms linked to the treatment, yet none necessitated discontinuation of the regimen. On the contrary, six per cent (n=53) reported symptoms consistent with an STI during one of the medical visits; specifically, 4.4% had urethritis, and 1.6% had proctitis. CONCLUSION nPEP with RAL/TDF/FTC demonstrates high efficacy and safety, contingent on proper adherence. There is an observed increase in STI prevalence in this cohort, with nearly half of the participants not engaging in appropriate follow-up after initiating nPEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Carrillo
- Medicina interna, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Laura Prieto-Pérez
- Hospital Universitario Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Álvarez Álvarez
- Hospital Universitario Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Raquel Bravo Ruiz
- Hospital Universitario Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Miguel Górgolas
- Hospital Universitario Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Cabello
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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27
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Alckmin-Carvalho F, Pereira H, Oliveira A, Nichiata L. Associations between Stigma, Depression, and Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in Brazilian Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2024; 14:1489-1500. [PMID: 38921064 PMCID: PMC11202413 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe14060098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a complex and multi-determined process that is influenced by psychosocial variables. Although international studies have pointed to the adverse impact of HIV stigma, sexual stigma, and depression on ART adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV, less is known about this association among Brazilians. We aimed to (a) evaluate indicators of depression, stigma related to HIV and homosexuality, and adherence to ART in a sample of Brazilian MSM living with HIV; (b) assess possible correlations between the variables analyzed, and (c) assess the impact of HIV and sexual stigma and depression on ART adherence. This cross-sectional study comprised 138 Brazilian MSM living with HIV as participants. Scales used included: a sociodemographic/clinical questionnaire, the questionnaire for assessment of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (CEAT-HIV), the Beck depression inventory (BDI-II), the internalized homophobia scale, and the HIV stigmatization scale. The mean adherence score was relatively high (78.83, within a range of 17-89 points). However, we observed inadequate ART adherence (CEAT-HIV < 75) in 28 (20.2%) respondents. Participants reported high scores for internalized sexual stigma, perceived sexual stigma in the community, and HIV stigma. Symptoms of depression were identified in 48.47% of participants. We found negative correlations between depression, HIV stigma, and treatment adherence, but not between sexual stigma and ART adherence. HIV-related stigma and sexual stigma were positively correlated with depression. Our regression analysis indicated that each year of age at diagnosis of HIV increased adherence by 0.22 points, on average. Each additional BDI-II score reduced adherence to ART by 0.20 points. The high prevalence of depression, HIV stigma, and sexual stigma, and their adverse effects on ART adherence and mental health, point to the need to implement evidence-based interventions to reduce sexual and serological stigma in the general population, as well as to mitigate the negative impacts of stigma on MSM living in HIV in Brazil. They also highlight the importance of periodically screening for these variables among MSM treated in Brazilian public health services, especially among those with inadequate adherence to ART.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Henrique Pereira
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (H.P.); (A.O.)
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - António Oliveira
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (H.P.); (A.O.)
| | - Lucia Nichiata
- School of Nursing, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01239-020, Brazil;
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28
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Engsig FN, Kronborg G. Pre-exposure prophylaxis against HIV infection. Ugeskr Laeger 2024; 186:V10230672. [PMID: 38808765 DOI: 10.61409/v10230672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) decreases the risk for HIV transmission in high-risk populations. PrEP has been available in Denmark since 2019 and consists of antiretroviral drugs in a combination tablet taken daily or on demand. The effect of this prophylaxis in Denmark is summarized in the review. PrEP is indicated in men and transgender persons with unprotected anal intercourse with multiple male partners in the latest 12 weeks or recent diagnoses of syphilis, chlamydia, or gonorrhoea. PrEP is provided by infectious disease specialists. Continued implementation could significantly reduce HIV transmission and potentially end the epidemic in Denmark.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gitte Kronborg
- Infektionsmedicinsk Afdeling, Københavns Universitetshospital - Hvidovre Hospital
- AIDS-Fondet
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29
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Holt M, Chan C, Broady TR, MacGibbon J, Mao L, Smith AKJ, Rule J, Bavinton BR. Variations in HIV Prevention Coverage in Subpopulations of Australian Gay and Bisexual Men, 2017-2021: Implications for Reducing Inequities in the Combination Prevention Era. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1469-1484. [PMID: 37755522 PMCID: PMC11069488 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04172-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Using repeated behavioural surveillance data collected from gay and bisexual men (GBM) across Australia, we assessed trends in HIV prevention coverage (the level of 'safe sex' achieved in the population by the use of effective prevention methods, including condoms, pre-exposure prophylaxis [PrEP] and having an undetectable viral load). We stratified these trends by age, country of birth/recency of arrival, sexual identity, and the proportion of gay residents in the participant's suburb. Among 25,865 participants with casual male partners, HIV prevention coverage increased from 69.8% in 2017 to 75.2% in 2021, lower than the UNAIDS target of 95%. Higher levels of coverage were achieved among older GBM (≥ 45 years), non-recently-arrived migrants, and in suburbs with ≥ 10% gay residents. The lowest levels of prevention coverage (and highest levels of HIV risk) were recorded among younger GBM (< 25 years) and bisexual and other-identified participants. Younger, recently-arrived, and bisexual GBM were the most likely to use condoms, while PrEP use was concentrated among gay men, 25-44-year-olds, and in suburbs with more gay residents. The use of undetectable viral load was most common among participants aged ≥ 45 years. Our analysis shows that high HIV prevention coverage can be achieved through a mixture of condom use, PrEP use, and undetectable viral load, or by emphasising PrEP use. In the Australian context, younger, bisexual and other-identified GBM should be prioritised for enhanced access to effective HIV prevention methods. We encourage other jurisdictions to assess the level of coverage achieved by combination prevention, and variations in uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Curtis Chan
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Timothy R Broady
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - James MacGibbon
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Limin Mao
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Anthony K J Smith
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - John Rule
- National Association of People With HIV Australia, Sydney, Australia
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30
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Choy CY, Wong CS, Kumar PA, Olszyna DP, Teh YE, Chien MFJ, Kurup A, Koh YL, Ho LP, Law HL, Chua NGS, Yong HYJ, Archuleta S. Recommendations for the use of antiretroviral therapy in adults living with human immunodeficiency virus in Singapore. Singapore Med J 2024; 65:259-273. [PMID: 35366662 PMCID: PMC11182460 DOI: 10.11622/smedj.2021174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Since the advent of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), the mortality attributable to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has decreased by 80%. Newer antiretroviral agents are highly efficacious, have minimal side effects as compared to older drugs, and can be formulated as combination tablets to reduce patients' pill burden. Despite these advances, 680,000 people worldwide died of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-related illnesses in 2020. The National ART and Monitoring Recommendations by the National HIV Programme have been created to guide physicians on the prescribing of ART based on the patients' needs. These recommendations are based on international guidelines and tailored to the local context and unique domestic considerations. We hoped that with the publication of these recommendations, the care of people living with HIV can be enhanced, bringing us closer to ending HIV in our lifetime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiaw Yee Choy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore
| | - Chen Seong Wong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - P Arun Kumar
- National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore
| | - Dariusz Piotr Olszyna
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Medicine Cluster, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yii Ean Teh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Asok Kurup
- Infectious Diseases Care Pte Ltd, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Singapore
| | - Yin Ling Koh
- The Novena Medical Specialists, Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Singapore
| | - Lai Peng Ho
- Department of Care and Counselling, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Hwa Lin Law
- Department of Pharmacy, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | | | | | - Sophia Archuleta
- National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Medicine Cluster, National University Hospital, Singapore
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31
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Esteban-Cantos A, Montejano R, Pinto-Martínez A, Rodríguez-Centeno J, Pulido F, Arribas JR. Non-suppressible viraemia during HIV-1 therapy: a challenge for clinicians. Lancet HIV 2024; 11:e333-e340. [PMID: 38604202 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(24)00063-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
In individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), persistent low-level viraemia not attributed to suboptimal ART adherence, detrimental pharmacological interactions, or drug resistance is referred to as non-suppressible viraemia (NSV). This Review presents recent findings in the virological characterisation of NSV, revealing that it consists of one or a few identical populations of plasma viruses without signs of evolution. This finding suggests that NSV originates from virus production by expanded HIV-infected cell clones, reflecting the persistence of the HIV reservoir despite ART. We discuss knowledge gaps regarding the management and the clinical consequences of NSV. The prevalence of NSV remains to be precisely determined and there is very little understanding of its effects on virological failure, HIV transmission, secondary inflammation, morbidity, and mortality. This issue, along with the absence of specific recommendations for the management of NSV in HIV clinical guidelines, underscores the complexities involved in treating individuals with NSV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Esteban-Cantos
- HIV/AIDS and Infectious Diseases Research Group, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Montejano
- Internal Medical Service, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adriana Pinto-Martínez
- HIV Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Rodríguez-Centeno
- HIV/AIDS and Infectious Diseases Research Group, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Federico Pulido
- CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; HIV Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - José R Arribas
- Internal Medical Service, Hospital Universitario La Paz-IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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van Paassen P, Dijkstra M, Peay HL, Rokx C, Verbon A, Reiss P, Prins JM, Henderson GE, Rennie S, Nieuwkerk PT, de Bree GJ. Perceptions of Rapid Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Among Participants of The Netherlands Cohort Study on Acute HIV Infection. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2024; 40:286-292. [PMID: 37791419 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2022.0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) same-day, or as soon as possible after HIV diagnosis is advised in guidelines worldwide. Especially during acute HIV infection (AHI), rapid ART start may be more urgent because of a higher risk of transmission or symptoms of acute retroviral syndrome. During this phase, rapid ART start may have additional benefits for viral reservoir size and host immunity. We explored perceptions of rapid ART start among participants of The Netherlands Cohort Study on Acute HIV infection (NOVA study), who started ART rapidly after diagnosis of AHI. We conducted 20 in-depth qualitative interviews with NOVA study participants between October and December 2018. Data were analyzed thematically, using inductive and iterative coding techniques. Roughly half of the participants stated they felt well-informed about the importance of (rapid) ART. Starting ART rapidly was perceived positively by almost all participants, mostly because of the expected benefits on their health, and to prevent HIV transmission. Rapid ART start was seen as a way to cope with the diagnosis. However, a more negative perception was that rapid ART start confronted participants with their diagnosis, when they were still adjusting to a new situation. Our results show that among people diagnosed during AHI, rapid ART is well-accepted. These results should be encouraging to HIV care providers who encounter people with AHI in their clinical practice and to researchers who carry out cure-related studies, in which early ART is often included. The Clinical Trial Registration number is NCT05728996.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pien van Paassen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje Dijkstra
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Holly L Peay
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Casper Rokx
- Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies Verbon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Reiss
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan M Prins
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gail E Henderson
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stuart Rennie
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- UNC Bioethics Center, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Pythia T Nieuwkerk
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Godelieve J de Bree
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Greene E, Walcott M, Guerra L, Tieu HV, Nandi V, Soler J, Diaz J, Curriero F, Latkin C, Bosompem A, Frye V. Correlates of concordance between self-reported and lab-confirmed viral load among Black and Latine men who have sex with men (BLMSM) living with HIV in New York City. AIDS Care 2024; 36:661-671. [PMID: 37399515 PMCID: PMC10761596 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2229816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Sustained viral suppression is one of the four strategies in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) plan to end the HIV epidemic in the United States. Individuals living with HIV must understand their viral load accurately for this strategy to be effective. We conducted cross-sectional analyses using baseline data from the NNHIV longitudinal study among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV in New York City to identify factors associated with concordant knowledge between self-reported and lab-confirmed viral load. Of 164 Black and/or Latine participants, 67% (n = 110) reported that their viral load was undetectable, however lab tests showed only 44% (n = 72) had an undetectable viral load (<20 copies/ml). Overall, 62% of the sample (n = 102) had concordant HIV viral load knowledge (agreement of self-reported and lab viral load). In multivariable regression, those with unstable housing (PR = 0.52, 0.30-0.92) and those who had higher levels of beliefs of racism in medicine scale (PR = 0.76, 0.59-0.97) were less likely to have concordant knowledge. Our study underscores the need for implementing measures to improve viral load knowledge, U = U messaging, and strategies to achieve and maintain undetectable viral load status to reduce the burden of HIV at the population level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melonie Walcott
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, NY, NY
| | - Lauren Guerra
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, NY, NY
| | - Hong-Van Tieu
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, NY, NY
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, NY, NY
| | - Vijay Nandi
- Laboratory of Data Analytic Services, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, NY, NY
| | - Jorge Soler
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, NY, NY
| | - Jose Diaz
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Frank Curriero
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Victoria Frye
- CUNY School of Medicine, NY, NY
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, NY, NY
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Montanha RM, Gioia TB, Ramos ACV, Ferreira NMDA, Torres MAF, Pimenta RA, Kerbauy G, Arcêncio RA, Pieri FM. HIV and AIDS in the state of Paraná, Brazil, 2007-2022: trends and spatiotemporal distribution. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE EPIDEMIOLOGIA 2024; 27:e240015. [PMID: 38655944 PMCID: PMC11027434 DOI: 10.1590/1980-549720240015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution of the incidence rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in the state of Paraná, Brazil. METHODS An ecological study with an analytical component of time series analysis was conducted in the state of Paraná from 2007 to 2022. The data source was the Notifiable Diseases Information System. To study the trend, the Prais-Winsten generalized linear regression model was used by decomposing the time series, and for spatial analysis, the Moran's index was applied. RESULTS The total sample consisted of 50,676 HIV/AIDS records. The incidence rate showed an increasing trend, with an average growth of 2.14% [95% confidence interval - 95%CI 1.16-3.13] per month. From 2007 to 2014 and from 2015 to 2022, the average number of cases in the state was 105.64 and 159.20 per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively, with significant variation among municipalities. Spatial clusters of high risk persisted in the metropolitan region, the capital, and coastal areas, and a new cluster was observed in the northern region of the state. CONCLUSION The incidence rates of HIV/AIDS showed an upward trend over time. The number of cases varied considerably in some municipalities, especially in the coastal region. Spatial analysis revealed geospatial patterns of high risk in the main metropolitan areas of Paraná: Curitiba (including the coastal area), Londrina, and Maringá, which share characteristics such as a high degree of urbanization and ongoing economic development.
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Hoang NS. When sex is taboo. J Hosp Med 2024; 19:337-338. [PMID: 38044884 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.13242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nam S Hoang
- UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Thornhill JP, Fox J, Martin GE, Hall R, Lwanga J, Lewis H, Brown H, Robinson N, Kuldanek K, Kinloch S, Nwokolo N, Whitlock G, Fidler S, Frater J. Rapid antiretroviral therapy in primary HIV-1 infection enhances immune recovery. AIDS 2024; 38:679-688. [PMID: 38133660 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We present findings from a large cohort of individuals treated during primary HIV infection (PHI) and examine the impact of time from HIV-1 acquisition to antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation on clinical outcomes. We also examine the temporal changes in the demographics of individuals presenting with PHI to inform HIV-1 prevention strategies. METHODS Individuals who fulfilled the criteria of PHI and started ART within 3 months of confirmed HIV-1 diagnosis were enrolled between 2009 and 2020. Baseline demographics of those diagnosed between 2009 and 2015 (before preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and universal ART availability) and 2015-2020 (post-PrEP and universal ART availability) were compared. We examined the factors associated with immune recovery and time to viral suppression. RESULTS Two hundred four individuals enrolled, 144 from 2009 to 2015 and 90 from 2015 to 2020; median follow-up was 33 months. At PHI, the median age was 33 years; 4% were women, 39% were UK-born, and 84% were MSM. The proportion of UK-born individuals was 47% in 2009-2015, compared with 29% in 2015-2020. There was an association between earlier ART initiation after PHI diagnosis and increased immune recovery; each day that ART was delayed was associated with a lower likelihood of achieving a CD4 + cell count more than 900 cells/μl [hazard ratio 0.99 (95% confidence interval, 95% CI 0.98-0.99), P = 0.02) and CD4/CD8 more than 1.0 (hazard ratio 0.98 (95% CI 0.97-0.99). CONCLUSION Early initiation of ART at PHI diagnosis is associated with enhanced immune recovery, providing further evidence to support immediate ART in the context of PHI. Non-UK-born MSM accounts for an increasing proportion of those with primary infection; UK HIV-1 prevention strategies should better target this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Patrick Thornhill
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College
- Imperial College National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre
- Imperial College NHS Trust
| | - Julie Fox
- Department of Genitourinary Medicine and Infectious Disease, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Trust and Kings College London, London
| | | | - Rebecca Hall
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College
- Imperial College National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre
- Imperial College NHS Trust
| | - Julianne Lwanga
- Department of Genitourinary Medicine and Infectious Disease, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Trust and Kings College London, London
| | - Heather Lewis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College
- Imperial College National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre
| | - Helen Brown
- Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford
- Oxford National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford
| | - Nicola Robinson
- Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford
- Oxford National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford
| | - Kristen Kuldanek
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College
- Imperial College National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre
| | | | - Nneka Nwokolo
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gary Whitlock
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sarah Fidler
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College
- Imperial College National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre
- Imperial College NHS Trust
| | - John Frater
- Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford
- Oxford National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford
- Royal Free Hospital
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Salvaña EMT. Testing Cancer Patients for HIV: Just Do It. ACTA MEDICA PHILIPPINA 2024; 58:3-4. [PMID: 39005615 PMCID: PMC11239985 DOI: 10.47895/amp.v58i5.10024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Who do we test for HIV? In a perfect world, the answer to this question is, “Everyone.” The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that anyone between the age of 13 to 64 years old should have at least one HIV test as part of routine healthcare. 1 In addition, they recommend that anyone who comes into contact with the healthcare system be tested, along with all pregnant women. The main justification for these recommendations is that 40% of new HIV infections in the United States are transmitted by people who do not know their HIV status, which is about 10% of their people living with HIV (PLHIV). 2
In the Philippines, the testing gap is even wider. Out of an estimated 160,000 PLHIV in 2022, only 102,931 PLHIV were tested and diagnosed. This translates to nearly 40% of all Filipino PLHIV remaining undiagnosed and potentially infecting others. 3 The testing coverage for the most-at-risk populations in the Philippines remains dismal at 67% for female sex workers (FSW), 28% for men who have sex with men (MSM), and 27% for persons who inject drugs (PWID). Successfully addressing the HIV epidemic begins at diagnosis, and so improving testing is of paramount importance.
There are two major compelling public health reasons to test people for HIV. First is to start life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART) as soon as possible. The sooner a PLHIV starts ART and stays on it, the more life years are recovered up to nearly restoring life expectancy. 4 The second reason is to eliminate the risk of transmission to other people. Starting ART and achieving a suppressed viral load renders a PLHIV virtually unable to transmit. 5
In this issue of the journal, Poblete and his colleagues6 try to make the case for universal HIV screening of Filipino cancer patients. While they did not find any HIV cases among the 124 patients they screened, they did note that risk factors among the study population were low. They still encouraged physicians to offer HIV screening to all cancer patients given the overwhelming benefits of treatment.
Targeted versus universal HIV screening has been a long ongoing academic debate and there are pros and cons supporting each approach. 7 A low overall prevalence like in the Philippines will be associated with higher costs per case detected with universal screening, but this could potentially be offset by the cost of missed cases in targeted screening. The CDC in past guidance has asserted that universal HIV screening in a specific risk population with an HIV prevalence of at least 0.1% is cost-effective. However, it eventually updated this guidance, urging universal screening regardless of risk factors or prevalence due to the clear benefits of early antiretroviral therapy both from an improved survival and decreased transmission standpoint. 1 In 2010, we did a study doing universal screening on cervical cancer patients and found no cases of HIV among 394 subjects at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). 8 However, we do have several PLHIV with cervical cancer in the SAGIP clinic in PGH. The failure to capture these patients in the study could be due to several reasons, including an underpowered sample size, poor random sampling, or those with higher risk factors declined to participate due to stigma. In a parallel study, we found no HIV cases in 400 pregnant women. 9 Despite this finding, universal screening among pregnant women continues to be recommended and is needed to eliminate maternal to child transmission of HIV.
There are more aspects to consider in recommending an HIV test beyond cost-effectiveness, underlying prevalence, and risk factors. Many infectious diseases physicians, including myself, recommend universal HIV screening for all cancer patients, especially those who are going to undergo chemotherapy regardless of risk factors. Given the severe immunosuppression that results from chemotherapy, the presence of an undetected HIV diagnosis can result in catastrophic medical consequences. Furthermore, certain AIDS-defining illness such as Kaposi’s sarcoma and lymphomas respond to treatment much better once antiretrovirals have been started.
Studies like Poblete et al. 6 are ultimately useful for periodic surveillance to check whether the prevalence of HIV in special populations is increasing, but negative findings from these studies should not be seen as a reason to defer HIV testing in this population. The benefits of HIV screening in cancer patients far outweigh any drawbacks, given the tremendous public health benefits of early diagnosis. We still have a long way to go in finding all the PLHIV in our country, and any opportunity to test is an opportunity to save a life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edsel Maurice T Salvaña
- Special Adviser to the Secretary of Health for HIV and AIDS, Department of Health, Republic of the Philippines Director and Professor, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Adjunct Professor for Global Health, University of Pittsburgh
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Richterman A, Klaiman T, Palma D, Ryu E, Schmucker L, Villarin K, Grosso G, Brady KA, Thirumurthy H, Buttenheim A. B-OK: A Visual and Tactile Tool for HIV Treatment Adherence Support in a United States Urban Center. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.02.28.24303498. [PMID: 38463947 PMCID: PMC10925346 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.28.24303498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Lack of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and poor retention in care are significant barriers to ending HIV epidemics. Treatment adherence support (TAS) effectiveness may be constrained by limited awareness and understanding of the benefits of ART, particularly the concepts of treatment as prevention and Undetectable=Untransmittable (U=U), for which substantial knowledge gaps persist. We used mixed methods to evaluate a straightforward visual and tactile tool, the B-OK Bottles ("B-OK"), that incorporates human-centered design and behavioral economics principles and is designed to change and strengthen mental models about HIV disease progression and transmission. We enrolled 118 consenting adults living with HIV who were clients of medical case managers at one of four case management agencies in Philadelphia. All participants completed a pre-intervention survey, a B-OK intervention, and a post-intervention survey. A subset (N=52) also completed qualitative interviews before (N=20) or after (N=32) B-OK. Participants had a median age of 55 years (IQR 47-60), about two-thirds were male sex (N=77, 65%), nearly three-quarters identified as non-Hispanic Black (N=85, 72%), and almost all reported receiving ART (N=116, 98%). Exposure to B-OK was associated with improved awareness and understanding of HIV terminology, changes in attitudes about HIV treatment, and increased intention to rely on HIV treatment for transmission prevention. Insights from qualitative interviews aligned with the quantitative findings as respondents expressed a better understanding of U=U and felt that B-OK clearly explained concepts of HIV treatment and prevention. These findings provide a strong rationale to further evaluate the potential for B-OK to improve TAS for PLWH.
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Wenlock R, Dhillon S, Perera S, Vera J, Llewellyn C, Dean G. Universal-offer HIV testing in primary care: A mixed-methods evaluation of a pilot study. Int J STD AIDS 2024; 35:280-286. [PMID: 38061357 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231219285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Offering HIV tests to all patients undergoing blood tests in primary care has been recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK since 2016 but has not been fully adopted. We sought to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of such a service in primary care. METHODS A 3-weeks pilot of offering HIV tests to all patients undergoing blood tests was conducted in a general practice in the UK and evaluated using a mixed-methods approach. Whether patients were offered and accepted tests was recorded and any differences by patient's age and gender assessed. All patients and HCPs offering testing were approached for semi-structured interviews. RESULTS Two-hundred-and-51 patients (mean [range] 57.5 years [18 to 97], 58% female) attended blood test appointments with 117 being offered a HIV test (46.6%). 78.6% (n = 92) accepted testing with 91 negative results. The proportion of patients offered testing was associated with the HCP offering the test. No associations between the age or gender of the patient and their odds of being offered or accepting a test were observed. Patient semi-structured interviews (n = 13) revealed a range of previous HIV testing experiences, patients felt the "offer" of a test to be routine and non-judgemental and felt that receiving negative results via SMS was appropriate. Several participants reported not fully considering the implications of a positive result when they accepted the test. Interviews with HCPs (n = 3) identified no significant service-level barriers. CONCLUSIONS Offering HIV tests to patients undergoing blood tests in primary care is feasible and acceptable. The principal barrier to uptake was HCPs not offering testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhys Wenlock
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Syra Dhillon
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Sean Perera
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Jaime Vera
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Carrie Llewellyn
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Gillian Dean
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
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Addo PNO, Brown MJ, Nkwonta CA, Kaur A, James T, Qiao S. "I Don't Believe That One": A Qualitative Study of Undetectable = Untransmittable Views Among Older Adults Living With HIV in South Carolina. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2024; 35:135-143. [PMID: 38949907 PMCID: PMC11217588 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000451] [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: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) means that people with HIV who achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load have effectively zero risk of sexually transmitting the virus to others. However, research on how U = U is perceived by older adults living with HIV (OAH) is currently lacking. This study explored U = U views among OAH. From October 2019 to February 2020, we conducted open-ended interviews with 24 OAH recruited at an HIV clinic in South Carolina. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. We employed thematic analysis in this study. Three themes emerged from the analysis: (a) Conflicting beliefs in U = U; (b) Use condoms regardless; and (c) Fear of HIV reinfection. Despite strong scientific evidence supporting U = U, some OAH do not believe in U = U. This lack of belief could deprive OAH of the benefits U = U offers. Therefore, it is vital to educate OAH about U = U to enhance their understanding and belief in U = U.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince Nii Ossah Addo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Monique J. Brown
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | | | - Amandeep Kaur
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Titilayo James
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Shan Qiao
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
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Klinnert S, Schenkel CD, Freitag PC, Günthard HF, Plückthun A, Metzner KJ. Targeted shock-and-kill HIV-1 gene therapy approach combining CRISPR activation, suicide gene tBid and retargeted adenovirus delivery. Gene Ther 2024; 31:74-84. [PMID: 37558852 PMCID: PMC10940146 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-023-00413-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Infections with the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) are incurable due the long-lasting, latent viral reservoir. The shock-and-kill cure approach aims to activate latent proviruses in HIV-1 infected cells and subsequently kill these cells with strategies such as therapeutic vaccines or immune enhancement. Here, we combined the dCas9-VPR CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) system with gRNA-V, the truncated Bid (tBid)-based suicide gene strategy and CD3-retargeted adenovirus (Ad) delivery vectors, in an all-in-one targeted shock-and-kill gene therapy approach to achieve specific elimination of latently HIV-1 infected cells. Simultaneous transduction of latently HIV-1 infected J-Lat 10.6 cells with a CD3-retargeted Ad-CRISPRa-V and Ad-tBid led to a 57.7 ± 17.0% reduction of productively HIV-1 infected cells and 2.4-fold ± 0.25 increase in cell death. The effective activation of latent HIV-1 provirus by Ad-CRISPRa-V was similar to the activation control TNF-α. The strictly HIV-1 dependent and non-leaky killing by tBid could be demonstrated. Furthermore, the high transduction efficiencies of up to 70.8 ± 0.4% by the CD3-retargeting technology in HIV-1 latently infected cell lines was the basis of successful shock-and-kill. This novel targeted shock-and-kill all-in-one gene therapy approach has the potential to safely and effectively eliminate HIV-1 infected cells in a highly HIV-1 and T cell specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Klinnert
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Life Science Zurich Graduate School, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Corinne D Schenkel
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick C Freitag
- Life Science Zurich Graduate School, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Huldrych F Günthard
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Plückthun
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Karin J Metzner
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Bunting SR, Hunt B, Johnson AK, Hazra A, Nunez-Garcia A, Glick N. Examination of Incidence of Sexually Transmitted Infections in the Ending the HIV Epidemic Priority Counties of the United States, 2005-2019. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:139-145. [PMID: 38100791 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been increasing in the United States, and this trend has continued alongside expanding/changing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention strategies, moving from reliance solely on behavioral interventions like condoms to biomedical methods like oral and injectable antiretroviral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). In 2019, the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative was released to prioritize resource allocation to the 50 jurisdictions in the United States with the highest HIV incidence, providing an opportunity to monitor STI incidence in a national group of discrete, geographic units and identify trends and differences across jurisdictions. OBJECTIVES AND DESIGN Using existing data from the US CDC and Census Bureau, a retrospective analysis was conducted to examine the incidence of STIs in 49 of the 50 EHE priority counties between 2005 and 2019. This timeframe was divided into 2 periods representing a before and after entry into the biomedical era of HIV prevention: P1 (2005-2011) and P2 (2012-2019). KEY RESULTS A total of 49 EHE counties were included in this analysis, representing 27.4% of the total US population. Entry into the biomedical HIV prevention era was associated with an increase in STI incidence in 28 EHE counties and a decrease in 14 EHE counties. The greatest percent increase in total STI incidence was in the District of Columbia (+12.1%; incidence rate ratio = 1.121 [1.115, 1.127]; P < 0.001) and the greatest percent decrease was identified in Orleans Parish, LA (-8.7%; incidence rate ratio = 0.913 [0.908, 0.919]; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Rising STI rates in the biomedical era of HIV prevention represent missed opportunities for comprehensive sexual and preventive healthcare. County-level data provide actionable insight for reducing STI incidence. The EHE counties that have experienced decreases in STI incidence while being in the biomedical era may provide models of best practice, which may be scaled in other jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel R Bunting
- From the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | | | | | - Aniruddha Hazra
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Nancy Glick
- Sinai Infectious Disease Center, Sinai Health System, Chicago, IL
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Keane A, Lyons F, Aebi-Popp K, Feiterna-Sperling C, Lyall H, Martínez Hoffart A, Scherpbier H, Thorne C, Albayrak Ucak H, Haberl A. Guidelines and practice of breastfeeding in women living with HIV-Results from the European INSURE survey. HIV Med 2024; 25:391-397. [PMID: 38031396 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is integral to HIV prevention, including averting vertical transmission. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends ART and breastfeeding for all women living with HIV for at least 12 months post-partum [1, 2]. Much of the data on HIV transmission through breastfeeding comes from low-resource settings, with a paucity of data on breastfeeding-related HIV transmission in women living with HIV in other settings. Women Against Viruses in Europe (WAVE), part of the European AIDS Clinical Society (EACS), aims to improve the standard of care for women living with HIV and sought to gain an understanding of breastfeeding guidelines and practice in women living with HIV across Europe. METHODS A steering group convened by WAVE developed a survey to collate information on breastfeeding trends, practice, and guideline recommendations for women living with HIV in Europe and to establish interest in becoming involved in a collaborative breastfeeding network. The survey was disseminated to 31 countries in March 2022. RESULTS In total, 25 eligible responses were received: 23/25 (92%) countries have HIV and pregnancy guidelines; 23/23 (100%) guidelines refer specifically to breastfeeding; 12/23 (52%) recommend against breastfeeding; 11/23 (48%) offer an option if certain criteria are met; 12/25 (48%) reported that the number of women living with HIV who breastfeed is increasing; 24/25 (96%) respondents were interested in joining a network on breastfeeding in women living with HIV. CONCLUSIONS Recommendations vary, and nearly half of the guidelines recommend against breastfeeding. Many countries report an increase in breastfeeding. WAVE will establish a collaborative network to bridge data gaps, conduct research, and improve support for women living with HIV who choose to breastfeed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Keane
- Department of Infectious Disease and Genitourinary Medicine, St James Hospital Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - F Lyons
- Department of Infectious Disease and Genitourinary Medicine, St James Hospital Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - K Aebi-Popp
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Switzerland, Switzerland
| | - C Feiterna-Sperling
- Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Klinik für Pädiatrie m. S. Pneumologie, Immunologie und Intensivmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - H Lyall
- Department of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - A Martínez Hoffart
- Posithiva Gruppen, Knowledge Network for Women Living with HIV, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - H Scherpbier
- Department of Paediatrics, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Thorne
- University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - H Albayrak Ucak
- CPL Life Science, Vaccine Research and Development, Reading, UK
| | - A Haberl
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, HIVCENTER, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Colpani A, De Vito A, Zauli B, Menzaghi B, Calcagno A, Celesia BM, Ceccarelli M, Nunnari G, De Socio GV, Di Biagio A, Leoni N, Angioni G, Giambenedetto SD, D'Ettorre G, Babudieri S, Madeddu G. Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV among People Living with HIV: Should We Be Concerned? Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:417. [PMID: 38391793 PMCID: PMC10888293 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12040417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Poor knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV among people with HIV (PLHIV) could worsen life quality. We aimed to investigate their STI and HIV knowledge, disclosure and undetectable = untransmittable (U=U). We proposed an anonymous questionnaire regarding STI and HIV to PLHIV attending ten Italian outpatient infectious diseases clinics. Moreover, disclosure and U=U were investigated. The calculated sample size was 178 people. Considering a missing response of 10%, the final sample size was 196. We enrolled 200 PLHIV (73.5% males), with a median age of 52.5 (IQR 41-59) years. The mean score was 7.61 ± 1.22 with no difference by gender, education, and employment. Significant statistical difference was observed by sexual orientation; bisexuals and those who preferred not to answer had a lower score than heterosexuals and MSM (p = 0.0032). PLHIV showed poor knowledge about HIV transmission (25% appropriately answered). Nearly 30% responded that virologically suppressed PLHIV could transmit the infection. Finally, 137 (68.5%) and 158 (79.0%) disclosed to the general practitioner and family and friends, respectively. Nearly 52.0% knew the meaning of U=U, and 83.6% highlighted its positive rebound. In conclusion, important knowledge gaps are present among PLHIV regarding U=U, and its implications are little-known. Improving PLHIVs' awareness will undermine self-stigma and enhance life quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Colpani
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea De Vito
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Beatrice Zauli
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Barbara Menzaghi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, "Ospedale di Circolo", 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Andrea Calcagno
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10123 Torino, Italy
| | - Benedetto Maurizio Celesia
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Manuela Ceccarelli
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nunnari
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Di Biagio
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino Hospital, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Nicola Leoni
- Unit of Infectious Disease, SS Trinità Hospital, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Goffredo Angioni
- Unit of Infectious Disease, SS Trinità Hospital, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Simona Di Giambenedetto
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella D'Ettorre
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Giordano Madeddu
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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Mody A, Sohn AH, Iwuji C, Tan RKJ, Venter F, Geng EH. HIV epidemiology, prevention, treatment, and implementation strategies for public health. Lancet 2024; 403:471-492. [PMID: 38043552 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01381-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The global HIV response has made tremendous progress but is entering a new phase with additional challenges. Scientific innovations have led to multiple safe, effective, and durable options for treatment and prevention, and long-acting formulations for 2-monthly and 6-monthly dosing are becoming available with even longer dosing intervals possible on the horizon. The scientific agenda for HIV cure and remission strategies is moving forward but faces uncertain thresholds for success and acceptability. Nonetheless, innovations in prevention and treatment have often failed to reach large segments of the global population (eg, key and marginalised populations), and these major disparities in access and uptake at multiple levels have caused progress to fall short of their potential to affect public health. Moving forward, sharper epidemiologic tools based on longitudinal, person-centred data are needed to more accurately characterise remaining gaps and guide continued progress against the HIV epidemic. We should also increase prioritisation of strategies that address socio-behavioural challenges and can lead to effective and equitable implementation of existing interventions with high levels of quality that better match individual needs. We review HIV epidemiologic trends; advances in HIV prevention, treatment, and care delivery; and discuss emerging challenges for ending the HIV epidemic over the next decade that are relevant for general practitioners and others involved in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaloke Mody
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Annette H Sohn
- TREAT Asia, amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Collins Iwuji
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK; Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Rayner K J Tan
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China; Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Francois Venter
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Elvin H Geng
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Silva KRO, Ferreira RC, Coelho LE, Veloso VG, Grinsztejn B, Torres TS, Luz PM. Knowledge of HIV transmission, prevention strategies and U = U among adult sexual and gender minorities in Brazil. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26220. [PMID: 38379186 PMCID: PMC10879640 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although strong scientific evidence of the efficacy and effectiveness of treatment-as-prevention (TasP) is available, full endorsement of the "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U = U) and "zero-risk" messages could be improved. Increasing knowledge about HIV transmission, prevention and treatment is a critical component of care efforts. The study assessed knowledge of HIV transmission and prevention strategies, and the perceived accuracy of the slogan U = U among sexual and gender minorities (SGM) in Brazil. METHODS Cross-sectional web-based survey targeting adult SGM living in Brazil (2021-2022) recruited on social media and dating apps. We used the 12-item HIV Knowledge Assessment (HIV-KA) questionnaire to assess HIV knowledge, three items of which address pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis and TasP. Perceived accuracy of the U = U slogan was assessed with the question: "With regards to HIV-positive individuals transmitting HIV through sexual contact, how accurate do you believe the slogan U = U is?". We a priori grouped the study population into three mutually exclusive groups: people living with HIV (PLHIV), HIV negative and HIV unknown. We used logistic regression models to assess factors associated with high HIV knowledge and perception of the U = U as completely accurate. RESULTS Of 50,222 individuals accessing the questionnaire, 23,981 were included: 5071 (21.0%) PLHIV, 17,257 (71.5%) HIV negative and 1653 (6.9%) HIV unknown. The proportion of participants with high knowledge was significantly higher for PLHIV and HIV negative (48.1% and 45.5%, respectively) compared to 26.1% of HIV unknown. More PLHIV perceived U = U as completely accurate (80.4%), compared to 60.0% of HIV negative and 42.9% of HIV unknown. HIV knowledge correlates with perceived accuracy of the U = U slogan across all groups. Higher HIV knowledge was associated with higher income and education regardless of HIV status. Among HIV-negative participants, PrEP awareness and use were associated with higher knowledge and accurate perception of the U = U slogan. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that HIV knowledge and perceived accuracy of U = U are strongly correlated, that knowledge differs according to HIV status, and that poor socio-economic is linked to poor knowledge among SGM from Brazil. Educational strategies regarding TasP, U = U and zero risk targeting socio-economically vulnerable populations are urgent in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lara E. Coelho
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo CruzRio de JaneiroBrazil
| | - Valdilea G. Veloso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo CruzRio de JaneiroBrazil
| | - Beatriz Grinsztejn
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo CruzRio de JaneiroBrazil
| | - Thiago S. Torres
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo CruzRio de JaneiroBrazil
| | - Paula M. Luz
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo CruzRio de JaneiroBrazil
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47
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Lee CY, Lin YP, Lin CY, Chen TC, Kuo SH, Lo SH, Wang SF, Lu PL. Trends and the associated factors of optimal immunological response and virological response in late anti-retroviral therapy initiation HIV cases in Taiwan from 2009 to 2020. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:339-348. [PMID: 38194765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Late cART initiation (CD4 count ≤200 cells/μL or AIDS-defining opportunistic illnesses [AOIs] at cART initiation) impedes CD4 count recovery and virologic suppression after cART initiation. However, studies to evaluate trends of and modifiable factors for optimal immunological response (IR) and virological response (VR) in people living with HIV (PLWH) with late cART initiation with the current HIV treatment strategies are limited. METHODS We retrospectively identified 475 PLWH with late cART initiation in 2009-2020. Patients were grouped based on the presence of IR (CD4 count ≥200 cells/μL) or VR (plasma viral load [PVL] ≤ 50 copies/mL) within 18 months after cART initiation (403 [84.8%] IR(+) and 72 [15.2%] IR(-); 422 [88.8%] VR(+) and 53 [11.2%] VR(-)). We used Joinpoint regression to identify IR (+) and VR(+) proportion changes. RESULTS From 2009 to 2020, the proportion of IR(+) patients remained unchanged (75% to 90%, P = 0.102), whereas that of VR(+) patients increased significantly (75% to 95%, P = 0.007). No join point was identified for either IR(+) or VR(+), and the annual percentage change was 0.56% (nonsignificant) and 1.35% (significant) for IR(+) and VR(+), respectively. Compared to IR(-) patients, IR(+) patients were more likely to have a higher pre-cART PVL, to start with a first-line INSTI-based regimen, or to start cART within 14 days of HIV diagnosis but were less likely to have chronic kidney disease, composite AOIs, or a lower pre-cART CD4 count. Compared to VR(-) patients, VR(+) patients were more likely to start a single-tablet regimen but were less likely to have a higher pre-cART PVL. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified several modifiable factors for optimal IR (rapid cART initiation and INSTI-based regimen initiation) and for optimal VR (STR initiation) among late initiators, which may guide early treatment modifications to reduce their AIDS-defining event incidence and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yuan Lee
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; M.Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yi-Pei Lin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; M.Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chun-Yu Lin
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Tun-Chieh Chen
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shin-Huei Kuo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shih-Hao Lo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Sheng-Fan Wang
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan , ROC; Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Po-Liang Lu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; School of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC; Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan, ROC.
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Politi J, Donat M, Guerras JM, Ayerdi O, Palma D, García JN, Barrio G, Belza MJ. Gaps in HIV and Hepatitis C Testing Among 3486 HIV-Negative Men Who have Sex with Men in Spain in the Era of Highly Effective Antiviral Therapies. J Community Health 2024; 49:139-155. [PMID: 37561245 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01259-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
High uptake of HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) testing in Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) is needed to interrupt transmission. The objective was to identify subgroups with increased probability of lack of testing among HIV-negative GBMSM in Spain. Cross-sectional study including 3486 HIV-negative GBMSM attending prevention facilities in Madrid and Barcelona, 2018-2020. Data came from self-administered online sociodemographic, health, and risk behaviors questionnaires. Outcomes were lack of HCV (lifetime) and HIV (lifetime, last year) testing. Crude and adjusted prevalences and prevalence ratios were assessed for each outcome using negative binomial regression models. Lifetime lack of HIV and HCV testing prevalence was 6.3% and 35.8%, respectively, while lack of HIV testing in the last year was 22.4%. Prevalences were also substantial in GBMSM with high-risk behaviors. After sociodemographic adjustment, the highest probability of lack of HCV testing (lifetime) and HIV (last year) was among GBMSM with insufficient viral hepatitis knowledge, no history of STI, or HCV (or HIV) testing, aged < 25, non-outness about sex life with men, and less high-risk behaviors. Lack of HCV (lifetime) and HIV testing (last year) among HIV-negative GBMSM in Spain is still high, despite high-risk behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Politi
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Donat
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Miguel Guerras
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Oskar Ayerdi
- Centro Sanitario Sandoval, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Palma
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Epidemiología, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jorge Néstor García
- Unidad de ITS de Vall d'Hebron-Drassanes, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gregorio Barrio
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Belza
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Gillespie SW, Reddy AS, Burris DM, Naqvi SH, Byrareddy SN, Lorson CL, Singh K. Islatravir: evaluation of clinical development for HIV and HBV. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:85-93. [PMID: 38235744 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2305130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Islatravir (ISL) is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase translocation inhibitor (NRTTI) that inhibits HIV RT through multiple mechanisms. Contrary to all approved NtRTIs, islatravir retains a 3'OH group. In vitro and clinical data show that ISL is an ultrapotent investigational drug with high tolerability. AREAS COVERED The historical development of islatravir and its mechanisms of HIV and HBV inhibition and resistance are covered. Additionally, the outcomes of Phase I and Phase II clinical trials are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Current first-line antiretroviral therapy, preexposure, and postexposure prophylactic interventions are highly effective in maintaining low or undetectable viral load. Despite these measures, an unusually high rate of new infections every year warrants developing novel antivirals that can suppress drug-resistant HIV and improve compliance. ISL, an NRTTI once deemed a long-acting drug, was placed on a clinical hold. The outcome of ongoing clinical trials with a reduced ISL dose will decide its future clinical application. Additionally, MK-8527, which inhibits HIV via same mechanism as that of ISL may supersede ISL. Data on ISL inhibition of HBV are scarce, and preclinical data show dramatically lower ISL efficacy against HBV than currently preferred nucleos(t)ide drugs, indicating that ISL may not be a potent anti-HBV drug.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Athreya S Reddy
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Dana M Burris
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - S Hasan Naqvi
- Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Siddappa N Byrareddy
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Christian L Lorson
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Kamal Singh
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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Kalwicz DA, Rao S, Modrakovic DX, Zea MC, Dovidio JF, Eaton LA, Holt M, MacGibbon J, Zaheer MA, Garner A, Calabrese SK. The Implications of PrEP Use, Condom Use, and Partner Viral Load Status for Openness to Serodifferent Partnering Among US Sexual Minority Men (SMM). AIDS Behav 2024; 28:524-534. [PMID: 38329558 PMCID: PMC10999131 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04241-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
PrEP has been reported to facilitate openness to serodifferent sexual partnerships among sexual minority men (SMM). However, other aspects of a sexual scenario likely come into play, including whether or not condoms are used and whether or not the partner living with HIV has an undetectable viral load. This online survey study evaluated the association between PrEP status and openness to serodifferent partnering, as well as the effects of various sexual scenario variables (condom use and partner's viral load) among 268 HIV-negative SMM in the US. Each participant reported their PrEP status and rated their openness to serodifferent partnering in four sexual scenarios, which varied by condom use (with/without) and partner viral load status (detectable/undetectable). Analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) were conducted to assess differences in openness to serodifferent partnering by PrEP status in each scenario, adjusting for background characteristics. A two-way repeated measures ANCOVA and a three-way mixed factorial ANCOVA, including PrEP status as a between-subjects variable, were also performed to assess the effects of condom use and partner viral load status on openness. Across all scenarios, current PrEP users expressed significantly greater openness to serodifferent partnering compared to participants who had never used PrEP. Current PrEP users were also more likely than former PrEP users to consider partnering with someone with an undetectable viral load without using condoms. Both PrEP users and PrEP-inexperienced individuals had greater openness to serodifferent partnering with a partner having an undetectable (vs. detectable) viral load, which was magnified by condom use among the latter.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Kalwicz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA.
| | - Sharanya Rao
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
| | - Djordje X Modrakovic
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
| | - Maria Cecilia Zea
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
| | - John F Dovidio
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James MacGibbon
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Myra A Zaheer
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alex Garner
- Hornet Gay Social Network, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sarah K Calabrese
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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