1
|
Shah HS, Serrano PA, Phillips Ii G. Adaptation and Reach of a Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Social Marketing Campaign for Latino, Latina, and Latinx Populations: Development Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e52842. [PMID: 39018099 DOI: 10.2196/52842] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Latino, Latina, and Latinx (Latino/a/x) individuals remain disproportionately impacted by HIV, particularly sexual minority men and transgender women. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective means of biomedical HIV prevention, but awareness and uptake remain low among marginalized Latino/a/x populations. Social marketing campaigns have demonstrated promise in promoting PrEP in other populations but are poorly studied in Latino/a/x sexual minority men and transgender women. OBJECTIVE This study aims to (1) adapt and pilot a PrEP social marketing campaign tailored to Latino/a/x populations with a focus on sexual minority men and transgender women through community-based participatory research (CBPR) and (2) evaluate the reach and ad performance of the adapted PrEP social marketing campaign. METHODS We used the ADAPT-ITT (assessment, decision, adaptation, production, topical experts-integration, training, and testing) framework for adapting evidence-based interventions for new settings or populations. This paper presents how each phase of the ADAPT-ITT framework was applied via CBPR to create the PrEPárate ("Be PrEPared") campaign. Key community engagement strategies included shared ownership with community partners, focus groups to guide content, crowdsourcing to name the campaign, design by local Latino/a/x artists, and featuring local influencers as the faces of PrEPárate. We evaluated campaign reach and advertisement performance using social media platform metrics (paid and organic reach, impressions, unique clicks, and click-through rates [CTR]) and website use statistics from Google Analytics. RESULTS The PrEPárate campaign ran in Cook County, Illinois, from April to September 2022. The campaign reached over 118,750 people on social media (55,750 on Facebook and Instagram [Meta Platforms Inc] and 63,000 on TikTok [ByteDance Ltd]). The Meta ads performed over the industry benchmark with ads featuring local transgender women (2% CTR) and cisgender sexual minority men (1.4% CTR). Of the different Grindr (Grindr Inc) ad formats piloted, the interstitial Grindr ads were the highest performing (1183/55,479, 2.13% CTR). YouTube (Google) ads were low performing at 0.11% (153/138,337) CTR and were stopped prematurely, given limits on sexual education-related content. In the first year, there were 5006 visitors to the website. CONCLUSIONS Adaptation of an existing evidence-based intervention served as an effective method for developing a PrEP social marketing campaign for Latino/a/x audiences. CBPR and strong community partnerships were essential to tailor materials and provide avenues to systematically address barriers to PrEP access. Social marketing is a promising strategy to promote PrEP among underserved Latino/a/x populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harita S Shah
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Pedro Alonso Serrano
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Gregory Phillips Ii
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
D'Costa ZU, Neibart SS, Jones LE, Shah MK, Page K, Jacob S. Delayed Diagnosis of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in the Latino Population at a Federally Qualified Community Health Center in New Jersey. J Immigr Minor Health 2024; 26:294-303. [PMID: 38147283 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01544-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Late diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated with early progression to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). We examined racial/ethnic differences in presentation with advanced HIV/AIDS at a community health center in New Jersey. Records of patients diagnosed with HIV between 1990 and 2018 were reviewed. Odds ratios (OR) of presenting with AIDS at HIV diagnosis were computed in unadjusted and adjusted models. There were 182 (48.3%) Latino, 48 (12.7%) non-Latino White (NLW), 130 (34.5%) non-Latino Black, and 17 (4.5%) non-Latino of other race/ethnicity included in the analysis. Over 75% of the Latinos were foreign-born. Latino patients had higher odds of presentation with AIDS at time of HIV diagnosis than NLW in unadjusted (OR = 4.85, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 2.28-10.31) and adjusted models (OR = 3.71, 95%CI: 1.60-8.59). Latino patients, particularly foreign-born and bisexual, had higher odds of being diagnosed with AIDS at presentation with HIV in this cohort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zoee U D'Costa
- Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 277 George St, Piscataway, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Shane S Neibart
- Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 277 George St, Piscataway, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Laura E Jones
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Mansi K Shah
- School of Arts and Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Kathleen Page
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sneha Jacob
- Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 277 George St, Piscataway, NJ, 08901, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jaramillo J, Reyes N, Atuluru P, Payen N, Taylor K, Safren SA, Saber R, Harkness A. Peer ambassador stories: formative qualitative research to enhance the reach of PrEP, HIV testing, and behavioral health treatments to LMSM in South Florida. AIDS Care 2024; 36:569-579. [PMID: 38157344 PMCID: PMC10932813 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2287736] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Existing HIV prevention interventions, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and behavioral health treatments inadequately reach Latino men who have sex with men (LMSM) in the US. This study involved formative research to inform the content, design, and implementation of a scalable, low resource implementation strategy - peer ambassador stories - stories from peers to normalize using PrEP, HIV testing, and behavioral health treatment. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 LMSM to elucidate their content, design, and implementation preferences for peer ambassador stories. Men were asked about story prompts, story contributor characteristics, story platform features, design preferences, and recommendations for enhancing the adoption and use of the peer ambassador technology platform among LMSM. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed via rapid qualitative analysis. Qualitative analyses identified 14 themes within 4 pre-specified domains. Collectively, the themes unified around the central concept that technology-delivered peer ambassador stories require a personalized, relational, culturally relevant touch to be acceptable and appropriate for LMSM. This study suggests that disseminating peer ambassador stories using electronic platforms and audio/video formats may enhance the reach of services and if they are personalized, relational, and culturally relevant. Findings have broad implications for informing other peer-based strategies to mitigate HIV disparities among LMSM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jahn Jaramillo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Nequiel Reyes
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Pranusha Atuluru
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, FL, USA
| | - Naomie Payen
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Kayla Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Rana Saber
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Audrey Harkness
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Garcia M. Intersectional Microaggressions and Implications for Health Inequities and HIV Among Latino/x Sexual Minority Males in Puerto Rico. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-023-01900-2. [PMID: 38198018 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01900-2] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Latino/x sexual minority males (SMM) continue to be disproportionately impacted by health inequities. This study aims to understand the lived experience of Puerto Rican (PR) SMM related to how intersectional microaggressions influence health-related risk and protective factors. Young adult (ages 21-30) PR SMM from San Juan, Puerto Rico, completed a bilingual in-depth individual interview (14 in Spanish and 1 in English). A thematic analysis based on the original language of the interviews was conducted using NVivo. Six prominent themes were identified through the data analysis: (1) religious microaggressions, being gay is bad because God doesn't like it; (2) gender microaggressions, gay is not good because it's not for men; (3) sexuality microaggressions, this one is a homosexual, coming out as a sexual minority; (4) trans microaggressions, drag queens create an illusion; (5) internalized microaggressions, battling with internalized homophobia; and (6) mitigating microaggressions, establishing a supportive community. Findings suggest that multiple forms of microaggressions based on the intersectionality of sexuality and gender manifest from straight as well as gay communities. PR SMM demonstrated their resiliency by assessing interactions with others to mitigate risks and enhance supportive networks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moctezuma Garcia
- School of Social Work, San José State University, San Jose, CA, 95112, USA.
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zapata JP, Queiroz A, Rodriguez-Diaz CE, Mustanski B. Factors Associated with HIV Testing Among Spanish and English-Speaking Latino Adolescents Aged 13-18. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:343-356. [PMID: 37848599 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04206-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent Latino men who have sex with men (LMSM) in the U.S. are disproportionately impacted by HIV. However, there has been limited focus on their HIV prevention and risk behaviors. In this study, we examine the rates of HIV testing and explore the significant demographic and healthcare factors that influence HIV prevention among adolescent LMSM. The analysis for this study utilized data collected during the baseline assessment of SMART, a pragmatic trial aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of an online HIV prevention intervention for adolescent LMSM (N = 524). Only 35.5% of participants had ever had an HIV test in their lifetime. Rates of testing increased among adolescent LMSM who had a doctor with whom they spoke about their sexual health (odds ratio: 4.0; 95% confidence interval: 2.1-8.4; P < 0.001) or HIV testing (odds ratio: 5.8; 95% confidence interval: 3.1-10.7; P < 0.001). Out of the 61 participants who took part in the survey conducted in Spanish, only 26% reported ever having an HIV test. Additionally, 24.5% stated that they had discussed their sexual orientation with a doctor, and only 8.2% had undergone HIV testing. Spanish-speaking adolescents who completed the SMART survey were less likely to openly discuss their sexual orientation or sexual health with most people or have a doctor with whom they discussed these topics, compared to those who completed the survey in English. These findings suggest that Spanish-speaking adolescent LMSM may face obstacles in accessing HIV prevention services in the U.S.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Zapata
- Department of Medical Social Science and the Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Artur Queiroz
- Department of Medical Social Science and the Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carlos E Rodriguez-Diaz
- School of Public Health, Boston University, 801 Massachusetts Ave. Suite 431, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Science and the Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ross J, Betancourt GS, Andrade EA, Klein A, Marrero L, Morales GA, Rivera S, Watnick DL, Patel VV. Collaborative PrEP Implementation Strategies for Latino Men Who have Sex with Men: A Health Center-Community Consensus Process. J Community Health 2023; 48:994-1003. [PMID: 37548892 PMCID: PMC10558404 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01266-w] [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: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Community-based organizations (CBOs) deliver services in culturally-responsive ways, and could effectively partner with health centers to deliver HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to Latino men who have sex with men (LMSM). However, few such models exist. We conducted a planning study in collaboration with three CBOs serving LMSM to identify optimal PrEP delivery strategies for health centers and CBOs to implement jointly. We established a Community Expert Panel (CEP) of eight client-facing CBO and health center staff. Over 6 months, the panel met monthly to identify collaborative strategies for PrEP delivery, using a modified Delphi method consisting of the following steps: (1) brainstorming strategies; (2) rating strategies on acceptability, appropriateness and feasibility; (3) review of data from qualitative focus group discussions with CBO clients; and (4) final strategy selection. The panel initially identified 25 potential strategies spread across three categories: improving communication between health centers and CBOs; using low-barrier PrEP options (e.g. telemedicine), and developing locally-relevant, culturally-sensitive outreach materials. Focus groups with CBO clients highlighted a desire for flexible options for PrEP-related care and emphasized trust in CBOs. The final package of strategies consisted of: (1) a web-based referral tool; (2) telemedicine appointments; (3) geographically-convenient options for lab specimen collection; (4) tailored print and social media; and (5) regular coaching sessions with CBO staff. Through a community-engaged process, we identified a package of PrEP delivery strategies that CBOs and health centers can implement in partnership, which have the potential to overcome barriers to PrEP for LMSM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Ross
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 3300 Kossuth Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA.
| | | | - Elí A Andrade
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 3300 Kossuth Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
| | - Augustus Klein
- Hunter Alliance for Research and Translation, Hunter College, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Dana L Watnick
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Viraj V Patel
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 3300 Kossuth Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Robles G, Lee JJ, Reynolds A, Rodríguez-Díaz CE, Rendina HJ. Reactions to Testing HIV Negative: An Assessment of Measurement Invariance and Associations with Condomless Anal Sex among English and Spanish-speaking Latinx Sexual Minority Men in the United States. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3661-3668. [PMID: 37195473 PMCID: PMC10777537 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04081-5] [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: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Among the many effective prevention strategies, frequent HIV testing continues to be promoted to reduce the risk of HIV transmission among sexual minority men (SMM). Testing negative for HIV can result in varied reactions that influence subsequent HIV transmission behaviors, yet the extant research has primarily been conducted in English. The current study examined measurement invariance of a Spanish-translated Inventory of Reactions to Testing HIV Negative (IRTHN). The study also examined whether the IRTHN was associated with subsequent condomless anal sex. Data were drawn from 2,170 Latinx SMM subsample of the UNITE Cohort Study. We conducted a multigroup confirmatory factor analysis to test for measurement invariance between participants who opted to take the survey in English (n = 2,024) and those who opted to take it in Spanish (n = 128). We also examined if the IRTHN is associated with subsequent CAS. The results were suggestive of partial invariance. The subscales of Luck and Invulernability were associated with CAS at the 12-month follow-up. Practice and research-based implications are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Robles
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| | - Jane J Lee
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Addam Reynolds
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carlos E Rodríguez-Díaz
- The George Washington University-Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - H Jonathon Rendina
- The George Washington University-Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
- Whitman-Walker Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Andrade EA, Betancourt G, Morales G, Zapata O, Marrero L, Rivera S, Nieves E, Miranda C, Diaz C, Beil R, Patel VV, Ross J. A Community-Based Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Telehealth Program Focused on Latinx Sexual Minority Men. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:517-524. [PMID: 37956241 PMCID: PMC10654651 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0185] [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: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Latinx sexual minority men (LSMM) face multilevel barriers to accessing HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). To address these barriers, we designed and implemented community-based organization (CBO)-PrEP, a collaborative community-based telehealth PrEP program for LSMM. We designed this PrEP delivery program through a collaborative process involving staff from local CBOs and a primary care-based HIV prevention program. Staff met weekly over a 3-month period to establish protocols for referrals, obtaining insurance coverage, and navigation to appointments and laboratory testing. To assess feasibility, we extracted electronic medical record data including demographics and clinical outcomes of PrEP care. Between December 2020 and May 2023, 102 individuals were referred to CBO-PrEP of which 85 had Hispanic/Latino as their ethnicity in their medical records; out of 102 individuals, 72 (70.6%) were scheduled for an initial appointment. Out of 72 individuals scheduled for an appointment, 58 (80.6%) were seen by a health care provider a median of 7.5 days after referral [interquartile range (IQR), 2-19]; 48 (82.6%) of initial appointments were through telemedicine, 10 (17.2%) were seen in person. Of the 48 patients who had a telehealth appointment, 36 (75%) underwent initial laboratory testing and 42 (87.5) were prescribed PrEP; all 10 patients who were seen in person underwent laboratory testing and were prescribed PrEP. PrEP prescriptions were received in a median of 17.5 days (IQR 4.5-33.5) after referral. CBO-PrEP successfully engaged LSMM, a population that is often hard to reach. Expanding collaborative approaches with CBOs could have a significant impact on improving PrEP uptake for LSMM and other priority populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elí A. Andrade
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | - Omar Zapata
- Voces Latinas, Jackson Heights, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Eric Nieves
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Carolina Miranda
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Chanelle Diaz
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Robert Beil
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Viraj V. Patel
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Jonathan Ross
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lozano A, Jaramillo J, Prado G, Safren SA, Harkness A. Barriers and facilitators to PrEP use and HIV testing for subgroups of Latino sexual minority men. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1329-1337. [PMID: 37232132 PMCID: PMC10524698 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2216009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and HIV testing inadequately reach Latino sexual minority men (LSMM), fueling HIV disparities. This study identified determinants of LSMM's PrEP use and HIV testing and examined differences across subgroups (i.e., age and immigration history). First, we identified the most to least endorsed barriers and facilitators of PrEP use and HIV testing among LSMM (1) over vs. under 40 years old, and (2) across immigration histories (U.S. born, recent immigrant, established immigrant). Next, we examined differences in barrier/facilitator ratings across these age and immigration status groups. Key overall determinants were cost, knowledge, and perceived benefit/need. However, there was variation in determinants across age groups (i.e., cost, affordability, navigation support, and normalization) and immigration statuses (i.e., language, immigration concerns, and HIV knowledge). There were also differences across service types; mistrust and concerns was a barrier related to PrEP but not HIV testing. We found unique and common multilevel factors across prevention services and subgroups. Language, cost, and clinic/system issues are key barriers in accessing HIV prevention that should be considered when developing implementation strategies to enhance the reach of these services to LSMM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Lozano
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA, 33136
| | - Jahn Jaramillo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA, 33136
| | - Guillermo Prado
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146
| | - Steven A. Safren
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146
| | - Audrey Harkness
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Maiorana A, Zamudio-Haas S, Santiago-Rodríguez EI, Sauceda JA, Rodríguez-Díaz CE, Brooks RA, Myers JJ. HIV Disclosure Practices to Family Among Mexican and Puerto Rican Sexual Minority Men with HIV in the Continental USA: Intersections of Sexual Orientation and HIV Stigma. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2023; 70:1911-1935. [PMID: 35225747 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2022.2043731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Disclosing a seropositive HIV status still is a complex process of assessing the risks, benefits, and potential personal and interpersonal outcomes associated with disclosure, such as stigma, rejection, or emotional support. We examined HIV disclosure practices to family and intersectional stigma related to HIV and sexual orientation among Latino sexual minority men (LSMM) of Mexican and Puerto Rican origin with HIV in the continental USA. Guided by Framework Analysis, we present data from 54 interviews with 33 LSMM participants in HIV care engagement interventions, and 21 project staff implementing the interventions. LSMM disclosed their HIV status to family seeking support. They applied stigma management techniques to manage the information communicated to family about their HIV status, including selective disclosure to some family members, conveying strategic information about the significance of having HIV, non-disclosure, or partial disclosure, silence and deceptions. LSMM HIV disclosure practices to family encompassed appraisals of intersectional stigma related to their sexual orientation and HIV, assessing the potential outcomes of disclosure, and the preservation of family ties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andres Maiorana
- Department of Prevention Science, University of California at San Francisco, Center for Aids Prevention Studies, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sophia Zamudio-Haas
- Department of Prevention Science, University of California at San Francisco, Center for Aids Prevention Studies, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Edda I Santiago-Rodríguez
- Department of Prevention Science, University of California at San Francisco, Center for Aids Prevention Studies, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - John A Sauceda
- Department of Prevention Science, University of California at San Francisco, Center for Aids Prevention Studies, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Carlos E Rodríguez-Díaz
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ronald A Brooks
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Janet J Myers
- Department of Prevention Science, University of California at San Francisco, Center for Aids Prevention Studies, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Martinez O, Fernandez MI, Yang C, Wu E, Valentin O, Johnson M. Feasibility and Acceptability Pilot Test of Connecting Latinos en Parejas: A Couples-Based HIV Prevention Intervention for Latino Male Couples. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231167106. [PMID: 37096329 PMCID: PMC10141303 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231167106] [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: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent emphasis on couples-based HIV prevention interventions, efficacious interventions for Latino male couples have yet to be tested. The study examined the feasibility and acceptability of the Connecting Latinos en Pareja (CLP) intervention, a couples-based HIV prevention intervention for Latino male couples. This pilot demonstrated high feasibility, meeting targets for recruitment, retention, and intervention completion. We recruited a diverse cohort of 46 individuals/23 couples with a retention rate of 80% over 6 months and a 100% intervention completion rate in both conditions (four structured couple sessions in each condition). This pilot RCT was not powered to detect significant intervention impact on the primary outcome; however, there was a significant increase in relationship functioning among couples in the intervention group relative to controls and promising trends in changes in several key outcome and mediating variables. Secondary analysis documented trends in the expected directions for several other key hypothesized mechanisms of action (stimulant use, psychological symptoms, quality of life) as well as the primary outcome of proportion of protected sex acts (overall and broken out by main vs. outside partners). Qualitative exit interviews revealed high levels of acceptability of the CLP intervention. Participants highlighted affective component of the intervention and perceived effectiveness in improving dyadic communication skills and safer sex practices. Our findings show that a pilot trial of CLP is highly feasible and acceptable, with CLP demonstrating promising evidence of changes in key intervention mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Martinez
- College of Medicine, University of
Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - M. Isabel Fernandez
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova
Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Cui Yang
- College of Public Health, Rutgers
University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Elwin Wu
- School of Social Work, Columbia
University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Omar Valentin
- College of Medicine, University of
Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Mallory Johnson
- School of Medicine, University of
California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
St. George SM, Harkness AR, Rodriguez-Diaz CE, Weinstein ER, Pavia V, Hamilton AB. Applying Rapid Qualitative Analysis for Health Equity: Lessons Learned Using "EARS" With Latino Communities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF QUALITATIVE METHODS 2023; 22:10.1177/16094069231164938. [PMID: 38463016 PMCID: PMC10923582 DOI: 10.1177/16094069231164938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Qualitative research amplifies the voices of marginalized communities and thus plays a critical role in shaping our understanding of health inequities and their social determinants. Traditional qualitative approaches, such as grounded theory or thematic analysis, require extensive training and are time- and labor-intensive; as such, they may not be adequately suited to address healthy equity issues that require a swift response. Rapid qualitative analysis (RQA) is an action-oriented approach to qualitative data analysis that may be used when findings are needed to quickly inform practice. RQA capitalizes on using a team to summarize key points from qualitative data into matrices to explore relevant themes efficiently and systematically. In this paper, we provide case examples from our work applying RQA to health equity research with Latino communities to address community needs, such as responses to public health emergencies and the development of service delivery and technology interventions for infectious and chronic diseases. We draw from our collective experiences to share lessons learned and provide the following specific recommendations ("EARS") to researchers interested in applying RQA for health equity research: (1) Employ RQA to address rapidly evolving, urgent, health equity challenges; (2) Assure quality and rigor throughout the RQA process; (3) Respond to barriers and problem-solve as needed; and (4) Strengthen community relationships before, during, and after using RQA. Overall, we advocate for the use of RQA to promote health equity due to its ability to integrate the vital perspectives of marginalized communities and efficiently respond to their needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara M. St. George
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Audrey R. Harkness
- University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Carlos E. Rodriguez-Diaz
- Department of Prevention and Community Health and Gill-Lebovic Center for Community Health in the Caribbean and Latin America, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Vanina Pavia
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Alison B. Hamilton
- VA Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Martinez O, Munoz-Laboy M, Davison R. Medical-legal partnerships: An integrated approach to advance health equity and improve health outcomes for people living with HIV. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:871101. [PMID: 36303611 PMCID: PMC9580720 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.871101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical Legal Partnerships (MLPs) offer a structural integrated intervention that could facilitate improvements in medical and psychosocial outcomes among people living with HIV (PLWH). Through legal aid, MLPs can ensure that patients are able to access HIV services in a culturally sensitive environment. We conducted organizational-level qualitative research rooted in grounded theory, consisting of key informant interviews with MLP providers (n = 19) and members of the Scientific Collaborative Board (SCB; n = 4), site visits to agencies with MLPs (n = 3), and meetings (n = 4) with members of the SCB. Four common themes were identified: (1) availability and accessibility of legal and social services support suggest improvements in health outcomes for PLWH; (2) observations and experiences reveal that MLPs have a positive impact on PLWH; (3) 3 intersecting continua of care exist within MLPs: HIV care continuum; legal continuum of care; and social services continuum; and (4) engagement in care through an MLP increases patient engagement and community participation. The MLP approach as a structural intervention has the potential to alleviate barriers to HIV/AIDS treatment and care and thus dramatically improve health outcomes among PLWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Martinez
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States,*Correspondence: Omar Martinez
| | - Miguel Munoz-Laboy
- School of Social Welfare, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Robin Davison
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
García M, Ramos SR, Aponte-Soto L, Ritchwood TD, Drabble LA. "Family before Anyone Else": A Qualitative Study on Family, Marginalization, and HIV among Hispanic or Latino/a/x Mexican Sexual Minority Males. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:8899. [PMID: 35897270 PMCID: PMC9332740 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19158899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study explored the influence family relationships have on HIV-related factors among Hispanic or Latino/a/x Mexican sexual minority cisgender males in San Antonio, TX, US. A total of 15 young adults (7 people living with HIV; PLWH) ages 21-30 completed a semi-structured interview. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. The following themes emerged: (1) family support; (2) mother-son relationships; (3) father-son relationships; (4) sibling support; (5) family marginalization of sexual minorities; and (6) internalized homophobia. People who reported being HIV negative were more likely to have a prominent mother-son relationship, strong sense of family, supportive siblings, and family acceptance as a sexual minority. PLWH were more likely to report a weak sense of family, being raised in a maternal-led household, and less likely to have a relationship with their father and siblings. Marginalization among participants regardless of HIV status included exposure to religious rhetoric stigmatizing sexual minorities and fathers' reinforcing Mexican traditional gender norms. In addition to encountering homophobia, PLWH were further marginalized by family members due to their HIV status. The findings suggest a need for greater attention to examining the impact of familial support of Hispanic or Latino/a/x Mexican sexual minority cisgender males as young adults with or at risk of HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moctezuma García
- School of Social Work, San José State University, San Jose, CA 95112, USA;
| | | | - Lisa Aponte-Soto
- College of Science and Health, DePaul University, Chicago, IL 60604, USA;
| | - Tiarney D. Ritchwood
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - Laurie A. Drabble
- School of Social Work, San José State University, San Jose, CA 95112, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cespedes M, Das M, Hojilla JC, Blumenthal J, Mounzer K, Ramgopal M, Hodge T, Torres TS, Peterson C, Shibase S, Elliott A, Demidont AC, Callaghan L, Watson CC, Carter C, Kintu A, Baeten JM, Ogbuagu O. Proactive strategies to optimize engagement of Black, Hispanic/Latinx, transgender, and nonbinary individuals in a trial of a novel agent for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267780. [PMID: 35657826 PMCID: PMC9165827 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Black and Hispanic/Latinx cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender women, transgender men, and gender nonbinary (TGNB) individuals have been historically underrepresented in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) clinical trials. There is an urgent need for ongoing engagement with communities that have been the most impacted by HIV and diverse representation in clinical trials. Here we describe strategic approaches undertaken in the PURPOSE 2 trial to optimize engagement of underrepresented individuals. METHODS AND RESULTS PURPOSE 2 is an ongoing Phase 3 trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of lenacapavir as PrEP in cisgender MSM and TGNB individuals. In PURPOSE 2, we used a multipronged approach aimed at enriching participation of underrepresented individuals. We conducted a review to identify evidence-informed recommendations from literature, engaged with stakeholders, and established the Global Community Advisory and Accountability Group (GCAG) to represent the needs of the community. Insights from stakeholders and GCAG members resulted in an expansion of the study population to include transgender men, gender nonbinary persons, and adolescents, and evaluation of population-specific outcomes. Feedback from stakeholders and GCAG members also informed investigator and site selection; these were selected based on prior experience working with persons from diverse racial, ethnic and gender identities, and estimates of local HIV incidence. Site selection was also expanded to include community-based clinics with services tailored towards Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and TGNB populations. We established a study-wide recruitment goal of 50% Black MSM and 20% Hispanic/Latinx MSM in US sites and 20% transgender women globally. Site-specific recruitment goals were also developed based on local demographics and HIV incidence. Mandatory trainings included Good Participatory Practice guidelines, gender inclusivity, and antiracism. CONCLUSION While further work is needed to achieve equitable representation, the strategies we describe may serve as a framework for future clinical trials. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trial Number: NCT04925752.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Cespedes
- Division of Infectious Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Moupali Das
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Jill Blumenthal
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| | - Karam Mounzer
- Philadelphia FIGHT Community Health Centers, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Moti Ramgopal
- Midway Research Center, Fort Pierce, FL, United States of America
| | - Theo Hodge
- Washington Health Institute, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Thiago S. Torres
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Charles Peterson
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | | | - Ayana Elliott
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, United States of America
| | - A. C. Demidont
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Alex Kintu
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Onyema Ogbuagu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Gamarel KE, King WM, Operario D. Behavioral and social interventions to promote optimal HIV prevention and care continua outcomes in the United States. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2022; 17:65-71. [PMID: 35067595 PMCID: PMC8885930 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review reports on trends in behavioral and social intervention research in the United States published over the past year (2020-2021) investigating HIV prevention and care outcomes, organized by the level of intervention focus - individual, dyadic, and organizational. RECENT FINDINGS Researchers have continued to develop and evaluate behavioral and social interventions to reduce HIV acquisition risk and disease progression. With few exceptions, social and behavioral interventions have primarily focused on individuals as the unit of behavior change. Interventions operating at the individual-, dyadic-, and organizational-level have made strides to reduce HIV transmission risk and disease progressing by addressing mental health, substance use, stigma, peer and romantic relationships, and, to some extent, structural vulnerabilities. SUMMARY Social and behavioral interventions continue to be critical in addressing HIV inequities in the United States. An important gap in the literature is the need for multilevel interventions designed and implemented within existing community-based organizations and local healthcare settings. We call on researchers to continue to attend to the structural, environmental, and economic vulnerabilities that shape HIV inequities in the development of multilevel approaches necessary to realize the full potential of existing and emerging HIV prevention and care strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristi E. Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Wesley M. King
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Du M, Yuan J, Jing W, Liu M, Liu J. The Effect of International Travel Arrivals on the New HIV Infections in 15–49 Years Aged Group Among 109 Countries or Territories From 2000 to 2018. Front Public Health 2022; 10:833551. [PMID: 35252102 PMCID: PMC8888525 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.833551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The prevalent international travel may have an impact on new HIV infections, but related studies were lacking. We aimed to explore the association between international travel arrivals and new HIV infections in 15–49 years aged group from 2000 to 2018, to make tailored implications for HIV prevention. Methods We obtained the data of new HIV infections from the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS and international travel arrivals from the World Bank. Correlation analysis was used to explore the relation briefly. Log-linear models were built to analyze the association between international travel arrivals and new HIV infections. Results International travel arrivals were positively correlated with new HIV infections (correlation coefficients: 0.916, p < 0.001). After controlling population density, the median age of the total population (years), socio-demographic index (SDI), travel-related mandatory HIV testing, HIV-related restrictions, and antiretroviral therapy coverage, there were 6.61% (95% CI: 5.73, 7.50; p < 0.001) percentage changes in new HIV infections of 15–49 years aged group associated with a 1 million increase in international travel arrivals. Conclusions Higher international travel arrivals were correlated with new HIV infections in 15–49 years aged group. Therefore, multipronged structural and effective strategies and management should be implemented and strengthened.
Collapse
|
18
|
Harkness A, Weinstein ER, Atuluru P, Altamirano DH, Vidal R, Rodriguez-Diaz CE, Safren SA. Latino sexual minority men's intersectional minority stress, general stress, and coping during COVID-19: A rapid qualitative study. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN MENTAL HEALTH 2022; 26:130-157. [PMID: 35873010 PMCID: PMC9302209 DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2021.1995096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Sexual minority men face mental health, substance use, and HIV disparities, all of which can be understood by minority stress and intersectionality theories. With the emergence of COVID-19 and considering its disproportionate impact on Latinx and sexual minority communities, Latino sexual minority men (LSMM) may be facing unique consequences of this new pandemic that intersect with pre-COVID disparities. The purpose of the current study is to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on LSMM's intersectional minority stress, general stress, and coping, filling a gap in the current literature. Methods The current rapid qualitative study explores the impact of COVID-19 on LSMM in South Florida who reported being HIV-negative (N=10) or living with HIV (N=10). Results The rapid analysis revealed themes of exacerbated intersectional minority stress and general stress in the context of COVID-19, some of which was related to the impact of pre-COVID-19 disparities in the LSMM community. Participants reported a variety of coping responses, some of which participants found helpful and others (e.g., substance use) which further exacerbated disparities. Conclusion The findings underscore the need to scale up and disseminate behavioral health resources to LSMM to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this community's health and well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pranusha Atuluru
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine
| | | | - Ronald Vidal
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami
| | - Carlos E. Rodriguez-Diaz
- Milken Institute of Public Health, The George Washington University
- University of Puerto Rico-Medical Sciences Campus, School of Public Health
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Logie CH. Sexual rights and sexual pleasure: Sustainable Development Goals and the omitted dimensions of the leave no one behind sexual health agenda. Glob Public Health 2021; 18:1953559. [PMID: 34278957 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1953559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This commentary explores the missing discourse of sexual rights and sexual pleasure in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) that purport to leave no one behind. The SDG propose a welcome focus on sexual health and human rights for all, expanding beyond the Millennium Development Goals. While promising in many ways for advancing global sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights, the omission of sexual rights is troubling. So too is the erasure of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) persons, and sex workers, from the SDG discussions of social inequities. Illustrative examples are provided to demonstrate how a sexual rights focus could advance SDG 3 focused on healthy lives and well-being for all. First, sexual rights are presented as integral to realizing Target 3.3's focus on ending the HIV pandemic among LGBTQ persons and sex workers (and LGBTQ sex workers). Second, sexual pleasure is introduced as an integral component of sexual health and sexual rights that could facilitate the realization of Target 3.7's aim to provide universal access to sexual and reproductive health information and education. To truly leave no one behind and realize sexual health for all, the SDG need to begin from a foundation of sexual rights.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mayer KH, Nelson L, Hightow-Weidman L, Mimiaga MJ, Mena L, Reisner S, Daskalakis D, Safren SA, Beyrer C, Sullivan PS. The persistent and evolving HIV epidemic in American men who have sex with men. Lancet 2021; 397:1116-1126. [PMID: 33617771 PMCID: PMC9639667 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00321-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in the USA were the first population to be identified with AIDS and continue to be at very high risk of HIV acquisition. We did a systematic literature search to identify the factors that explain the reasons for the ongoing epidemic in this population, using a social-ecological perspective. Common features of the HIV epidemic in American MSM include role versatility and biological, individual, and social and structural factors. The high-prevalence networks of some racial and ethnic minority men are further concentrated because of assortative mixing, adverse life experiences (including high rates of incarceration), and avoidant behaviour because of negative interactions with the health-care system. Young MSM have additional risks for HIV because their impulse control is less developed and they are less familiar with serostatus and other risk mitigation discussions. They might benefit from prevention efforts that use digital technologies, which they often use to meet partners and obtain health-related information. Older MSM remain at risk of HIV and are the largest population of US residents with chronic HIV, requiring culturally responsive programmes that address longer-term comorbidities. Transgender MSM are an understudied population, but emerging data suggest that some are at great risk of HIV and require specifically tailored information on HIV prevention. In the current era of pre-exposure prophylaxis and the undetectable equals untransmittable campaign, training of health-care providers to create culturally competent programmes for all MSM is crucial, since the use of antiretrovirals is foundational to optimising HIV care and prevention. Effective control of the HIV epidemic among all American MSM will require scaling up programmes that address their common vulnerabilities, but are sufficiently nuanced to address the specific sociocultural, structural, and behavioural issues of diverse subgroups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth H Mayer
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - LaRon Nelson
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Matthew J Mimiaga
- Fielding School of Public Health and David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Leandro Mena
- Medical Center, University of Mississippi, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Sari Reisner
- Boston Children's Hospital, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Chris Beyrer
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|