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Avelino-Silva VI, Stone M, Bakkour S, Di Germanio C, Schmidt M, Conway AL, Wright D, Grebe E, Custer B, Kleinman SH, Deng X, Lingappa JR, Defechereux P, Mehrotra M, Grant RM, Vasan S, Facente S, Phanuphak N, Sacdalan C, Akapirat S, de Souza M, Busch MP, Norris PJ. Suppressed HIV antibody responses following exposure to antiretrovirals - evidence from PrEP randomized trials and early antiretroviral treatment initiation studies. Int J Infect Dis 2024:107222. [PMID: 39186969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107222] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to antiretrovirals at or early after HIV acquisition can suppress viral replication and blunt antibody (Ab) responses; a reduced HIV detectability could impact diagnosis and blood donation screening. METHODS We used three antigen (Ag)/Ab assays and one nucleic acid test (NAT) to analyze samples collected in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) trials (iPrEx; Partners PrEP) before infection detection by Ab-only rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), and in early antiretroviral treatment (ART) initiation studies (RV254; SIPP). RESULTS Reactivity using NAT and Ag/Ab assays in samples collected up to 8 weeks prior to the first reactive RDT from 251 PrEP trials participants varied between 49-61% for active PrEP users and between 27-37% for placebo users. Among RV254 participants, reactivity in Ag/Ab assays was <100% at all timepoints, and lower among those initiating ART earlier. Seroreversions occurred for 29% (16/55), and blood donation screening with NAT and Ag/Ab assays could have missed up to 36% (20/55) of RV254 participants. For SIPP participants, who started ART at later timepoints, Ag/Ab assays identified infections with no evidence of reactivity waning. CONCLUSION PrEP and early ART initiation can delay or reduce HIV detectability. Considerations for the implementation of NAT and Ag/Ab tests in PrEP/PEP programs relying on Ab-only RDTs should be balanced according to feasibility and public health impact. While blood transfusion services using Ab-only RDTs for HIV screening should adopt higher sensitivity tests, surveillance and further research are needed to determine the need for novel HIV testing algorithms for those already using NAT and Ag/Ab screening assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian I Avelino-Silva
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.
| | - Mars Stone
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sonia Bakkour
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Clara Di Germanio
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | | | | | - Eduard Grebe
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Brian Custer
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Xutao Deng
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | | | - Megha Mehrotra
- Gladstone Institute of Virology, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Robert M Grant
- Gladstone Institute of Virology, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sandhya Vasan
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Shelley Facente
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | | | - Carlo Sacdalan
- SEARCH Research Foundation, Bangkok, Thailand; Research Affairs, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Siriwat Akapirat
- Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences (AFRIMS), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Mark de Souza
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation (IHRI), Bangkok, Thailand; SEARCH Research Foundation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Michael P Busch
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Philip J Norris
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA; Departments of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Diaz JE, Ghanooni D, Atkins L, Sam SS, Kantor R, Miller-Perusse M, Chuku CC, Valentin O, Balise RR, Davis-Ewart L, Tisler A, Horvath KJ, Carrico AW, Hirshfield S. Challenges and Opportunities with at-Home Blood Collection for HIV-1 Viral Load Monitoring among Sexual Minoritized Men who use Stimulants. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04453-5. [PMID: 39126558 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04453-5] [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] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Sexually minoritized men (SMM) with HIV who use stimulants experience difficulties achieving and maintaining an undetectable viral load (VL). Home-based VL monitoring could augment HIV care by supporting interim, early identification of detectable VL. We describe implementation challenges associated with a home-collection device for laboratory-based VL testing among SMM with HIV who use stimulants. From March-May 2022, cisgender SMM with HIV reporting moderate-to-severe stimulant use disorder and suboptimal (< 90%) past-month antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence were recruited via a consent-to-contact participant registry. Eligible men completed teleconference-based informed consent and were mailed a HemaSpot-HD blood collection device (volume capacity 160 µL; lower limit of detection 839 copies/mL) with detailed instructions for home blood self-collection and return shipment. Implementation process measures included estimated blood volume and VL quantification. Among 24 participants, 21 (88%) returned specimens with a median duration of 23 days (range: 10-71 days) between sending devices to participants and receiving specimens. Of these, 13/21 (62%) included enough blood (≥ 40 µL) for confidence in detectable/undetectable results; 10/13 (77%) had detectable VL, with 4/10 (40%) were quantifiable at ≥ 839 copies/mL. The remaining 8/21 had low blood volume (< 40 µL), but 3/8 (38%) still had detectable VL, with 1/3 (33%) quantifiable at ≥ 839 copies/mL. Home blood collection of ≥ 40 µL using HemaSpot-HD was feasible among this high-priority population, with > 50% having a VL detected. However, interim VL monitoring using HemaSpot-HD among those experiencing difficulties with ART adherence may be strengthened by building rapport via teleconferencing and providing detailed instructions to achieve adequate sample volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- José E Diaz
- Department of Medicine, STAR Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | - Delaram Ghanooni
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Lindsay Atkins
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Soya S Sam
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Rami Kantor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Michael Miller-Perusse
- San Diego State University/University of California Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Chika C Chuku
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Omar Valentin
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Raymond R Balise
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Leah Davis-Ewart
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Anna Tisler
- Department of Medicine, STAR Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, STAR Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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Fridman I, Eyal N, Scherr KA, Currier JS, Freedberg KA, Halpern SD, Kuritzkes DR, Magalhaes M, Pollak KI, Ubel PA. Willingness to trade-off years of life for an HIV cure - an experimental exploration of affective forecasting. AIDS Res Ther 2024; 21:51. [PMID: 39107832 PMCID: PMC11304558 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-024-00640-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the US, 1.2 million people live with HIV (PWH). Despite having near-normal life expectancies due to antiretroviral therapy (ART), many PWH seek an HIV cure, even if it means risking their lives. This willingness to take risks for a cure raises questions about "affective forecasting biases," where people tend to overestimate the positive impact of future events on their well-being. We conducted a study to test two interventions to mitigate affective forecasting in the decisions of PWH about taking HIV cure medication. METHODS We recruited PWH to complete a 30-minute survey about their current quality of life (QoL) and the QoL they anticipate after being cured of HIV, and assigned them to either no additional intervention, to one of two interventions intended to reduce affective forecasting bias, or to both interventions: (1) a defocusing intervention designed to broaden the number of life domains people consider when imagining life changes associated with new circumstances (e.g. HIV cure); and (2) an adaptation intervention to help them gauge fading of strong emotions over time. The study design included a 2 × 2 design: defocusing (yes/no) x adaptation (yes/no) intervention. We assessed PWH's willingness to take hypothetical HIV sterilizing cure medication using the Time Trade-Off (TTO) and their quality of life predictions with WHOQOL-HIV. RESULTS 296 PWH participated. Counter to what we had hypothesized, neither intervention significantly reduced PWH's willingness to trade time for a cure. Instead, the defocusing intervention increased their willingness to trade time (IRR 1.77, p = 0.03). Exploratory analysis revealed that PWH with lower current quality of life who received the defocusing intervention were more willing to trade time for a cure. CONCLUSION These negative findings suggest that either these biases are difficult to overcome in the settings of HIV curative medication or other factors beyond affective forecasting biases influence willingness to participate in HIV curative studies, such as respondents' current quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Fridman
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, 450 West Dr, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Nir Eyal
- School of Public Health, and Philosophy, Rutgers University Institute for Health, 112 Paterson St, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Karen A Scherr
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Rd, Durham, 27710, NC, USA
| | - Judith S Currier
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, 911 Broxton Ave, Suite 30, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Kenneth A Freedberg
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Divisions of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, 100 Cambridge St, Suite 1600, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott D Halpern
- Departments of Medicine, Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Daniel R Kuritzkes
- Division of Infectious Diseases Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 65 Landsdowne St, Rm 449, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Monica Magalhaes
- Rutgers University Institute for Health, 112 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Kathryn I Pollak
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences in the Duke Cancer Institute, 2424 Erwin Road, Suite 602, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
- Department of Population Health Science, Duke University, 215 Morris St, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Peter A Ubel
- Department of Population Health Science, Fuqua School of Business, School of Medicine, Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, 100 Fuqua Drive., Durham, NC, 27708, USA
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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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Lee MJ, Eason M, Castagna A, Laura G, De Scheerder M, Riley J, Tebas P, Gunst J, Søgaard O, Florence E, Kroon E, De Souza M, Mothe B, Caskey M, Fidler S. The impact of analytical treatment interruptions and trial interventions on time to viral re-suppression in people living with HIV restarting ART in cure-related clinical studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26349. [PMID: 39155436 PMCID: PMC11330850 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26349] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To assess the effectiveness of novel HIV curative strategies, "cure" trials require periods of closely monitored antiretroviral therapy (ART) analytical treatment interruptions (ATIs). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify the impact of ATI with or without novel therapeutics in cure-related studies on the time to viral re-suppression following ART restart. METHODS Medline, Embase and Web of Science databases were searched for human studies involving ATIs from 1 January 2015 till 22 April 2024. The primary outcome was time to first viral re-suppression (plasma HIV viral load [VL] <50 copies/ml) stratified by receipt of interventional drug with ATI (IA) or ATI-only groups. Random-effects proportional meta-analysis and multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis were performed using R. RESULTS Of 1073 studies screened, 13 were included that met the inclusion criteria with VL data available after restarting ART (n = 213 participants). There was no difference between time to viral suppression in IA or ATI-only cohorts (p = 0.22). For 87% of participants, viral suppression within 12 weeks of ART restart was achieved, and all eventually had at least one VL <50 copies/ml during follow-up. After adjusting for covariables, while participants in the IA cohort were associated with less rapid suppression (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.61, 95% CI 0.40-0.94, p = 0.026), other factors include greater log VL at ART restart (aHR 0.56, 95% CI 0.46-0.68, p<0.001), duration since HIV diagnosis (aHR 0.93, 95% CI 0.89-0.96) and longer intervals between HIV VL monitoring (aHR 0.66, 95% CI 0.59-0.74, p<0.001). However, the use of integrase inhibitors was associated with more rapid viral suppression (aHR 1.74, 95% CI 1.16-2.59). DISCUSSION When designing studies involving ATIs, information on time to viral re-suppression after restarting ART is important to share with participants, and should be regularly monitored and reported, to assess the impact and safety of specific trial interventions in ATI studies. CONCLUSIONS The majority of participants achieved viral suppression after restarting ART in ATI studies. ART regimens containing integrase inhibitors and frequent VL monitoring should be offered for people restarting ART after ATI studies to ensure rapid re-suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Jie Lee
- Department of Infectious DiseaseImperial College LondonLondonUK
- Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, Nuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Miles Eason
- Faculty of MedicineImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Antonella Castagna
- Clinic of Infectious DiseasesVita‐Salute UniversitySan Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilanItaly
| | - Galli Laura
- Infectious DiseasesIstituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilanItaly
| | | | - James Riley
- Center for Cellular ImmunotherapiesDepartment of MicrobiologyPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Pablo Tebas
- Center for Cellular ImmunotherapiesDepartment of MicrobiologyPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Jesper Gunst
- Department of Infectious DiseasesAarhus University HospitalAarhusDenmark
- Department of Clinical MedicineAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
| | - Ole Søgaard
- Department of Infectious DiseasesAarhus University HospitalAarhusDenmark
| | - Eric Florence
- Departments of Clinical and Biomedical SciencesInstitute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
- Department of Infectious DiseasesUniversity HospitalAntwerpBelgium
| | | | | | - Beatriz Mothe
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research InstituteHospital Germans Trias i PujolBadalonaSpain
| | - Marina Caskey
- Laboratory of Molecular ImmunologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Sarah Fidler
- Department of Infectious DiseaseImperial College LondonLondonUK
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Seshie M, Obeng BM, Boamah VE, Bayor M, Bonney EY, Gbedema SY, Sagoe KWC. Resistance to protease inhibitors among persons living with HIV in Ghana: a case for viral load and drug resistance monitoring. Virol J 2024; 21:159. [PMID: 39033275 PMCID: PMC11265000 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02354-6] [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: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Routine viral load and drug resistance testing are well supported in most resource-rich settings and provide valuable benefits in the clinical care of PLWH in these communities. Undoubtedly, there exist financial and political constraints for the scale-up of viral load and drug resistance testing in Sub-Saharan Africa. To achieve the global UNAIDS 95/95/95 targets, there is the need to bridge this inequity in patient care and allow for a universal approach that leaves no community behind. METHODS Venous blood from 96 PLWH on second-line ART from Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital were collected and processed into plasma for CD4+ T- cell and viral load assessments. Ribonucleic acid (RNA) was extracted from stored plasma and the protease gene amplified, sequenced and analyzed for subtype and drug resistance mutations using the Stanford HIV drug resistance database. RESULTS Out of the 96 PLWH, 37 experienced virological failure with 8 patients' samples successfully sequenced. The predominant HIV-1 subtype identified was CRF02_AG (6/8, 75.0%) with 12.5% (1/8) each of CFR06_cpx infection and one case unable to subtype. The major PI resistance mutations identified were; M46I, I54V, V82A, I47V, I84V and L90M. CONCLUSIONS Persons living with HIV who had experienced virologic failure in this study harboured drug resistance mutations to PI, thus compromise the effectiveness of the drugs in the second line. Resistance testing is strongly recommended prior to switching to a new regimen. This will help to inform the choice of drug and to achieve optimum therapeutic outcome among PLWH in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makafui Seshie
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Billal Musah Obeng
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
- Immunovirology and Pathogenesis Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Vivian Etsiapa Boamah
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Marcel Bayor
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Evelyn Yayra Bonney
- Department of Virology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Stephen Yao Gbedema
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kwamena William Coleman Sagoe
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Mikomangwa WP, Moen K, Mmbaga EJ, Metta E, Kibusi SM, Leshabari MT, Kamuhabwa AAR, Kwesigabo G. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis use during periods of unprotected sex among female sex workers in Tanga city, Tanzania: a control arm analysis of the pragmatic quasi-experimental trial. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1405765. [PMID: 39081360 PMCID: PMC11286493 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1405765] [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: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) prevention-effective adherence is of critical importance but challenging particularly among key populations where periods of high HIV risk are frequent. We assessed the use of PrEP with reference to periods of unprotected sex among female sex workers in the city of Tanga. Methods This was part of the pragmatic quasi-experimental trial for HIV PrEP rollout in Tanzania involving a control cohort of 313 female sex workers aged ≥18 years recruited by respondent-driven sampling and followed for 12 months. PrEP use and periods of condomless or unprotected sex were assessed at the 6th and 12th month of follow-up. Prevention-effective adherence was defined as PrEP use of ≥2 pills/week and ≥6 pills/week for anal and vaginal condomless sex. Multivariable modified Poisson regression was conducted to determine factors influencing PrEP use (≥2 pills/week). Results Overall, 59.2 and 45.9% of participants had unprotected anal and vaginal sex with a client, respectively. The prevention-effective adherence for anal sex ranged from 8.0% (months 6) to 10.0% (months 12) while that of vaginal sex was from 10.1% (month 6) to 3.8% (month 12). Participants who lived with friends were 25.5 times more likely to use ≥2 PrEP doses per week than those who lived alone (aPR = 25.5; 95%CI: 2.55-255.42, p = 0.006). Compared to self-reporting poor health status, self-reporting good health status significantly increased the use of ≥2 PrEP doses per week (aPR = 17.4; 95%CI: 3.01-101.02, p = 0.001). Refusing condomless sex with a steady partner increased the likelihood of using ≥2 PrEP doses per week than accepting condomless sex with a steady partner (aPR = 11.2; 95%CI: 1.55-80.48, p = 0.017). The prevalence of using ≥2 PrEP doses per week was less among participants accepting condomless sex at high pay than those who refused (aPR = 0.1; 95%CI: 0.03-0.26, p = 0.000). Conclusion Use of PrEP during periods of unprotected sex was rare among female sex workers. Living with friends, self-reporting good health status, and refusing condomless sex with steady partners were associated with increased use of ≥2 PrEP doses per week. However, accepting condomless sex for increased payment was associated with reduced use of ≥2 PrEP doses per week. This calls for an in-depth study to understand the perspectives and circumstances shaping poor adherence during periods of unprotected sex among female sex workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wigilya P. Mikomangwa
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Kåre Moen
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Elia J. Mmbaga
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Emmy Metta
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Stephen M. Kibusi
- Department of Public Health, The University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Melkizedeck T. Leshabari
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Appolinary A. R. Kamuhabwa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Gideon Kwesigabo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Konda KA, Qquellon J, Torres TS, Vega-Ramirez EH, Elorreaga O, Guillén-Díaz-Barriga C, Diaz-Sosa D, Hoagland B, Guanira JV, Benedetti M, Pimenta C, Vermandere H, Bautista-Arredondo S, Veloso VG, Grinsztejn B, Caceres CF. Awareness of U = U among Sexual and Gender Minorities in Brazil, Mexico, and Peru: Differences According to Self-reported HIV Status. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:2391-2402. [PMID: 38662277 PMCID: PMC11199300 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04336-9] [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: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The slogan Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U = U) communicates that people living with HIV (PLHIV) who are on antiretroviral therapy (ART) will not transmit HIV to their sexual partners. We describe awareness of U = U among sexual and gender minorities (SGM) living in Brazil, Mexico, and Peru by self-reported HIV status (PLHIV, negative, unknown) during 2021 using an online survey. We estimated two models using Poisson regression for each population group: Model A including socio-demographic factors (country, gender, age, race, education, and income), and then Model B including taking ART (for PLHIV) or risk behavior, ever-taking PrEP, and HIV risk perception (for HIV-negative or of unknown HIV status). A total of 21,590 respondents were included (Brazil: 61%, Mexico: 30%, Peru: 9%). Among HIV-negative (74%) and unknown status (12%), 13% ever used PrEP. Among PLHIV (13%), 93% reported current use of ART. Awareness of U = U was 89% in both Brazil and Mexico, which was higher than in Peru 64%. Awareness of U = U was higher among PLHIV (96%) than HIV-negative (88%) and HIV-unknown (70%). In multivariate models, PLHIV with lower education were less aware of U = U, while those taking ART were more aware. Among HIV-negative, non-cisgender, lower income, and those with lower education had lower awareness of U = U, while individuals ever using PrEP had higher awareness. In conclusion, awareness of U = U varied by HIV status, socio-demographic characteristics, and HIV risk behavior. The concept of U = U should be disseminated through educational strategies and include a focus on SGM to combat HIV stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Konda
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1845 N Soto St, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA.
- Centro de Investigación Interdisciplinaria en Sexualidad, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, SIDA y Sociedad, Lima, Peru.
| | - J Qquellon
- Centro de Investigación Interdisciplinaria en Sexualidad, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, SIDA y Sociedad, Lima, Peru
| | - T S Torres
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (INI-Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - E H Vega-Ramirez
- Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatria Ramon de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - O Elorreaga
- Centro de Investigación Interdisciplinaria en Sexualidad, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, SIDA y Sociedad, Lima, Peru
| | - C Guillén-Díaz-Barriga
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - D Diaz-Sosa
- Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatria Ramon de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - B Hoagland
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (INI-Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - J V Guanira
- Centro de Investigación Interdisciplinaria en Sexualidad, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, SIDA y Sociedad, Lima, Peru
| | - M Benedetti
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (INI-Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - C Pimenta
- Departmento de Doenças de Condições Crônicas e Infecções Sexualmente Transmissiveis, Brazilian Ministry of Health, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - H Vermandere
- Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública (INSP), Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - V G Veloso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (INI-Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - B Grinsztejn
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (INI-Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - C F Caceres
- Centro de Investigación Interdisciplinaria en Sexualidad, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, SIDA y Sociedad, Lima, Peru
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9
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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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10
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Nemphos SM, Green HC, Prusak JE, Fell SL, Goff K, Varnado M, Didier K, Guy N, Moström MJ, Tatum C, Massey C, Barnes MB, Rowe LA, Allers C, Blair RV, Embers ME, Maness NJ, Marx PA, Grasperge B, Kaur A, De Paris K, Shaffer JG, Hensley-McBain T, Londono-Renteria B, Manuzak JA. Elevated Inflammation Associated with Markers of Neutrophil Function and Gastrointestinal Disruption in Pilot Study of Plasmodium fragile Co-Infection of ART-Treated SIVmac239+ Rhesus Macaques. Viruses 2024; 16:1036. [PMID: 39066199 PMCID: PMC11281461 DOI: 10.3390/v16071036] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and malaria, caused by infection with Plasmodium spp., are endemic in similar geographical locations. As a result, there is high potential for HIV/Plasmodium co-infection, which increases the pathology of both diseases. However, the immunological mechanisms underlying the exacerbated disease pathology observed in co-infected individuals are poorly understood. Moreover, there is limited data available on the impact of Plasmodium co-infection on antiretroviral (ART)-treated HIV infection. Here, we used the rhesus macaque (RM) model to conduct a pilot study to establish a model of Plasmodium fragile co-infection during ART-treated simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection, and to begin to characterize the immunopathogenic effect of co-infection in the context of ART. We observed that P. fragile co-infection resulted in parasitemia and anemia, as well as persistently detectable viral loads (VLs) and decreased absolute CD4+ T-cell counts despite daily ART treatment. Notably, P. fragile co-infection was associated with increased levels of inflammatory cytokines, including monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1). P. fragile co-infection was also associated with increased levels of neutrophil elastase, a plasma marker of neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, but significant decreases in markers of neutrophil degranulation, potentially indicating a shift in the neutrophil functionality during co-infection. Finally, we characterized the levels of plasma markers of gastrointestinal (GI) barrier permeability and microbial translocation and observed significant correlations between indicators of GI dysfunction, clinical markers of SIV and Plasmodium infection, and neutrophil frequency and function. Taken together, these pilot data verify the utility of using the RM model to examine ART-treated SIV/P. fragile co-infection, and indicate that neutrophil-driven inflammation and GI dysfunction may underlie heightened SIV/P. fragile co-infection pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney M. Nemphos
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Hannah C. Green
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - James E. Prusak
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Sallie L. Fell
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Kelly Goff
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Megan Varnado
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Kaitlin Didier
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Natalie Guy
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Matilda J. Moström
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Coty Tatum
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Chad Massey
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Mary B. Barnes
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Lori A. Rowe
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Carolina Allers
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Robert V. Blair
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Monica E. Embers
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Nicholas J. Maness
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Preston A. Marx
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Brooke Grasperge
- Division of Veterinary Medicine, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
| | - Amitinder Kaur
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Kristina De Paris
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27559, USA
| | - Jeffrey G. Shaffer
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | | | - Berlin Londono-Renteria
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Jennifer A. Manuzak
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
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11
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Cocorpus J, Holman S, Yager JE, Helzner E, Sardar M, Kohlhoff S, Smith-Norowitz TA. Viral Load Suppression in People Living with HIV Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brooklyn, New York. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04385-0. [PMID: 38836987 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04385-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Consistent care is crucial for the health maintenance of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PWH). The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic disrupted patient care in New York City (NYC), yet few studies investigated the association between COVID-19 and viral load suppression in PWH in NYC. This study aims to assess how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted HIV viral load and CD4 + T-cell counts in PWH. Medical records of 1130 adult HIV patients who visited the Special Treatment and Research Health Center in Brooklyn, NY, between January 2019 and May 2023 were compared across three timeframes (pre-pandemic, January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019; first pandemic phase, March 19, 2020 to December 31, 2020; and second pandemic phase, January 1, 2021 to May 11, 2023). Demographic and clinical variables (e.g. viral load and CD4 + T cell count) were assessed. About 40% of patients did not have routine laboratory monitoring during the first pandemic phase compared with pre-pandemic. The mean HIV viral load was higher during the second pandemic phase compared with pre-pandemic (p = 0.009). The percentages of patients with undetectable HIV viral load and numbers (mm3) of CD4 + T-cells were similar for all time periods. These findings indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated challenges for individuals who already had barriers to medication adherence or access. However, most individuals remained consistently on their antiretrovirals throughout the pandemic. Further studies are warranted to determine how to mitigate the impact of future pandemics for the health of PWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenelle Cocorpus
- Department of Pediatrics, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Box 49, 450 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Susan Holman
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Jessica E Yager
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Elizabeth Helzner
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Mohsin Sardar
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Stephan Kohlhoff
- Department of Pediatrics, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Box 49, 450 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Tamar A Smith-Norowitz
- Department of Pediatrics, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Box 49, 450 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
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12
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Bareng OT, Moyo S, Mudanga M, Sebina K, Koofhethile CK, Choga WT, Moraka NO, Maruapula D, Gobe I, Motswaledi MS, Musonda R, Nkomo B, Ramaabya D, Chebani T, Makuruetsa P, Makhema J, Shapiro R, Lockman S, Gaseitsiwe S. Low-Level Viremia among Adults Living with HIV on Dolutegravir-Based First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy Is a Predictor of Virological Failure in Botswana. Viruses 2024; 16:720. [PMID: 38793602 PMCID: PMC11125697 DOI: 10.3390/v16050720] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
We evaluated subsequent virologic outcomes in individuals experiencing low-level virem ia (LLV) on dolutegravir (DTG)-based first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Botswana. We used a national dataset from 50,742 adults who initiated on DTG-based first-line ART from June 2016-December 2022. Individuals with at least two viral load (VL) measurements post three months on DTG-based first-line ART were evaluated for first and subsequent episodes of LLV (VL:51-999 copies/mL). LLV was sub-categorized as low-LLV (51-200 copies/mL), medium-LLV (201-400 copies/mL) and high-LLV (401-999 copies/mL). The study outcome was virologic failure (VF) (VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL): virologic non-suppression defined as single-VF and confirmed-VF defined as two-consecutive VF measurements after an initial VL < 1000 copies/mL. Cox regression analysis identified predictive factors of subsequent VF. The prevalence of LLV was only statistically different at timepoints >6-12 (2.8%) and >12-24 (3.9%) (p-value < 0.01). LLV was strongly associated with both virologic non-suppression (adjusted hazards ratio [aHR] = 2.6; 95% CI: 2.2-3.3, p-value ≤ 0.001) and confirmed VF (aHR = 2.5; 95% CI: 2.4-2.7, p-value ≤ 0.001) compared to initially virally suppressed PLWH. High-LLV (HR = 3.3; 95% CI: 2.9-3.6) and persistent-LLV (HR = 6.6; 95% CI: 4.9-8.9) were associated with an increased hazard for virologic non-suppression than low-LLV and a single-LLV episode, respectively. In a national cohort of PLWH on DTG-based first-line ART, LLV > 400 copies/mL and persistent-LLV had a stronger association with VF. Frequent VL testing and adherence support are warranted for individuals with VL > 50 copies/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ontlametse T. Bareng
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Professions, University of Botswana, Gaborone 0022, Botswana (M.S.M.)
| | - Sikhulile Moyo
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Pathology, Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7935, South Africa
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Mbatshi Mudanga
- Department of Strategic Information, Botswana-University of Maryland School of Medicine Health Initiative, Gaborone 0022, Botswana
| | - Kagiso Sebina
- Department of Strategic Information, Botswana-University of Maryland School of Medicine Health Initiative, Gaborone 0022, Botswana
| | - Catherine K. Koofhethile
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wonderful T. Choga
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Professions, University of Botswana, Gaborone 0022, Botswana (M.S.M.)
| | - Natasha O. Moraka
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Professions, University of Botswana, Gaborone 0022, Botswana (M.S.M.)
| | - Dorcas Maruapula
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
| | - Irene Gobe
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Professions, University of Botswana, Gaborone 0022, Botswana (M.S.M.)
| | - Modisa S. Motswaledi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Professions, University of Botswana, Gaborone 0022, Botswana (M.S.M.)
| | - Rosemary Musonda
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
| | | | - Dinah Ramaabya
- Botswana Ministry of Health, Gaborone 0038, Botswana (T.C.)
| | - Tony Chebani
- Botswana Ministry of Health, Gaborone 0038, Botswana (T.C.)
| | | | - Joseph Makhema
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Roger Shapiro
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shahin Lockman
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Simani Gaseitsiwe
- Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Gaborone 0000, Botswana (C.K.K.); (N.O.M.); (D.M.)
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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13
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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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14
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Xia H, Li L, Wu Y, Gao L, Zhang D, Ma P. Rapid Initiation of Antiretroviral Therapy Under the Treat-All Policy Reduces Loss to Follow-Up and Virological Failure in Routine Human Immunodeficiency Virus Care Settings in China: A Retrospective Cohort Study (2016-2022). AIDS Patient Care STDS 2024; 38:168-176. [PMID: 38656215 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2024.0045] [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: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Following the World Health Organization's guidelines for rapid antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation [≤7 days after human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) diagnosis], China implemented Treat-All in 2016 and has made significant efforts to provide timely ART since 2017. This study included newly diagnosed HIV adults from Tianjin, China, between 2016 and 2022. Our primary outcome was loss to follow-up (LTFU) at 12 months after enrollment. The secondary outcome was 12-month virological failure. The association between rapid ART and LTFU, as well as virological failure, was assessed via Cox regression and logistic regression. A total of 896 (19.1%) of 4688 participants received ART ≤7 days postdiagnosis. The rate of rapid ART has increased from 7.5% in 2016 to 33.3% by 2022. The rapid ART group had an LTFU rate of 3.3%, as opposed to 5.0% in the delayed group. The rapid ART group had a much reduced virological failure rate (0.6% vs. 1.8%). Rapid ART individuals had a reduced likelihood of LTFU [adjusted hazard ratio: 0.65, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.44-0.96] and virological failure (adjusted odds ratio: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.12-0.80). The real-world data indicated that rapid ART is practicable and beneficial for Chinese people with HIV, providing evidence for its widespread implementation and scaling up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Xia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Liying Gao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Defa Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ping Ma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tianjin Second People's Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Harris CL, Blair CS, Segura ER, Gutiérrez J, Lake JE, Cabello R, Clark JL. Sexual network characteristics, condomless anal intercourse, and the HIV care cascade among MSM living with controlled versus uncontrolled HIV infection in Lima, Peru: a population-based cross-sectional analysis. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2024; 32:100722. [PMID: 38629029 PMCID: PMC11019357 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2024.100722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Background Despite high rates of HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Lima, Peru, limited data exist on the sexual network characteristics or risk factors for secondary HIV transmission among MSM with uncontrolled HIV infection. We report the frequency of serodiscordant, condomless anal intercourse (CAI) and associated sexual network characteristics among MSM in Lima with detectable HIV viremia and compare to those with undetectable viremia. Methods This cross-sectional analysis includes MSM who tested positive for HIV-1 during screening for a trial of partner management and STI control (June 2022-January 2023). Participants were tested for HIV, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis, and completed questionnaires on their demographic characteristics, sexual identity and behaviour, sexual network structures and engagement in HIV care. Findings Of 665 MSM, 153 (23%) had detectable (>200 copies/mL) viremia. 75% (499/662) of men living with HIV were previously diagnosed, with 94% (n = 469/499) reporting that they were on ART, and 93% (n = 436/469) virally suppressed. 96% (n = 147/153) of men with detectable viremia reported serodiscordant CAI with at least one of their last three sexual partners, and 74% (n = 106/144) reported the same with all three of their recent partners. In contrast, 62% (n = 302/489) of men with undetectable viral load reported serodiscordant CAI with all of their last three partners (p < 0.01). Interpretation 23% of men living with HIV in Peru had detectable viremia, of whom almost all (96%) reported recent serodiscordant CAI. The primary gap in the HIV care cascade lies in awareness of HIV serostatus, suggesting that improved access to HIV testing could be a key prevention strategy in Peru. Funding Funding for this study was provided by NIH/NIMH grants R01 MH118973 (PI: Clark) and R25 MH087222 (PI: Clark).
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlyn L. Harris
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cherie S. Blair
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Division of Infectious Diseases, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eddy R. Segura
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | - Jesse L. Clark
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Division of Infectious Diseases, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Lewin A, Goldman M, Busch MP, Davison K, van de Laar T, Tiberghien P, Shinar E, O'Brien SF, Lambert G, Field S, Hervig T, Tan DHS, Custer B, Drews SJ, Lanteri MC, Klochkov D, Widmer E, Domingue MP, Renaud C, Germain M. End of selection criteria based on sexual orientation: An international symposium on alternatives to donation deferral. Vox Sang 2024; 119:388-401. [PMID: 38270352 DOI: 10.1111/vox.13587] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Until recently, gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) were deferred from donating blood for 3-12 months since the last male-to-male sexual contact. This MSM deferral has been discontinued by several high-income countries (HIC) that now perform gender-neutral donor selection. MATERIALS AND METHODS An international symposium (held on 20-04-2023) gathered experts from seven HICs to (1) discuss how this paradigm shift might affect the mitigation strategies for transfusion-transmitted infections and (2) address the challenges related to gender-neutral donor selection. RESULTS Most countries employed a similar approach for implementing a gender-neutral donor selection policy: key stakeholders were consulted; the transition was bridged by time-limited deferrals; donor compliance was monitored; and questions or remarks on anal sex and the number and/or type of sexual partners were often added. Many countries have now adopted a gender-neutral approach in which questions on pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been added (or retained, when already in place). Other countries used mitigation strategies, such as plasma quarantine or pathogen reduction technologies for plasma and/or platelets. CONCLUSION The experience with gender-neutral donor selection has been largely positive among the countries covered herein and seems to be acceptable to stakeholders, donors and staff. The post-implementation surveillance data collected so far appear reassuring with regards to safety, although longer observation periods are necessary. The putative risks associated with HIV antiretrovirals should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Lewin
- Medical Affairs and Innovation, Héma-Québec, Montréal and Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mindy Goldman
- Donation Policy and Studies, Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael P Busch
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California in San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Katy Davison
- NHS Blood and Transplant/UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Epidemiology Unit, UKHSA, London, UK
| | - Thijs van de Laar
- Department of Donor Medicine Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pierre Tiberghien
- Établissement Français du Sang, La Plaine Saint Denis, France
- UMR 1098, Inserm, Établissement Français du Sang, Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Eilat Shinar
- National Blood Services, Magen David Adom, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sheila F O'Brien
- Epidemiology and Surveillance, Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gilles Lambert
- Direction régionale de santé publique - Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Stephen Field
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service, Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tor Hervig
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service, Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland
| | - Darrell H S Tan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian Custer
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California in San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Steven J Drews
- Donation Policy and Studies, Canadian Blood Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Marion C Lanteri
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California in San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Scientific Affairs, Creative Testing Solutions, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Denis Klochkov
- Research and Development, CSL Behring, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Marie-Pier Domingue
- Medical Affairs and Innovation, Héma-Québec, Montréal and Québec, Quebec, Canada
- Faculté des Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Christian Renaud
- Medical Affairs and Innovation, Héma-Québec, Montréal and Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marc Germain
- Medical Affairs and Innovation, Héma-Québec, Montréal and Québec, Quebec, Canada
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Shah D, Harjani R, Yadav V. Semen Washing and Intrauterine Insemination for Reducing the Risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Transmission in Serodiscordant Couples: A Cross-sectional Study. J Hum Reprod Sci 2024; 17:94-101. [PMID: 39091439 PMCID: PMC11290715 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_11_24] [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: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Antiretroviral therapy has helped human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected people live an enhanced quality of life and attempt for a pregnancy, without placing their partner at risk. Although periconceptional pre-exposure prophylaxis for the uninfected partner and consistent antiretroviral therapy for the HIV-infected partner are important to prevent HIV transmission, semen washing could be a great option to further reduce the semen viral load. Aim The aim of this study were as follows: to determine if semen washing with intrauterine insemination provides an added safety net to HIV-serodiscordant couples when the male partner is HIV-infected and virally suppressed and to determine if the U = U concept (undetectable = untransmittable) holds true in virally suppressed HIV-infected males. Settings and Design This was an observational study conducted in seropositive HIV men under treatment with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in collaboration with Metropolis Laboratory, a CAP recognised private Healthcare Laboratory in Mumbai, India. Materials and Methods Blood and semen samples were collected from a total of 110 adult HIV-1-infected males virally suppressed on HAART. These samples were processed to assess the viral load in plasma as well as raw and processed semen fractions. Statistical Analysis Used Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Results Only men with plasma viral loads < 1000 copies were selected in our study. Out of the 110 HIV-infected individuals, 102 (92.73%) patients had undetectable (<20 copies/ml) plasma viral load while 8 (7.27%) patients had a detectable (>20 copies/ml) viral load, who were excluded from the study. In the virally suppressed 102 men, the raw semen samples of 100 men showed an undetectable viral load, while 2 samples showed detectable contamination, even though their plasma samples from the blood showed a viral load of <20 copies/ml. The semen was then separated into the sperm and the seminal plasma samples. The seminal plasma had <20 copies/ml in 95 samples (93.14%) but a detectable viral load in 7 (6.86%) samples. After subjecting all the 102 processed (post-wash) sperm samples to quantitative analysis, an undetectable viral load of <20 copies/ml was found in all the samples. Thus, the raw sample (prewashed),seminal plasma and processed (postwash) samples were evaluated. The post-wash sperm sample showing zero contamination was frozen for intrauterine insemination (IUI) in the uninfected female partner. Conclusions Semen washing with IUI should be advocated as a safe, efficacious way to increase the safety net and to further reduce the minimal risk of HIV transmission in serodiscordant couples in addition to the U = U concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duru Shah
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Gynaecworld –The Center for Women’s Health and Fertility– Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Raj Harjani
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre – Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vishesha Yadav
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Gynaecworld –The Center for Women’s Health and Fertility– Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Burke RM, Rickman HM, Pinto C, Ehrenkranz P, Choko A, Ford N. Reasons for disengagement from antiretroviral care in the era of "Treat All" in low- or middle-income countries: a systematic review. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26230. [PMID: 38494657 PMCID: PMC10945039 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26230] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Disengagement from antiretroviral therapy (ART) care is an important reason why people living with HIV do not achieve viral load suppression become unwell. METHODS We searched two databases and conference abstracts from January 2015 to December 2022 for studies which reported reasons for disengagement from ART care. We included quantitative (mainly surveys) and qualitative (in-depth interviews or focus groups) studies conducted after "treat all" or "Option B+" policy adoption. We used an inductive approach to categorize reasons: we report how often reasons were reported in studies and developed a conceptual framework for reasons. RESULTS We identified 21 studies which reported reasons for disengaging from ART care in the "Treat All" era, mostly in African countries: six studies in the general population of persons living with HIV, nine in pregnant or postpartum women and six in selected populations (one each in people who use drugs, isolated indigenous communities, men, women, adolescents and men who have sex with men). Reasons reported were: side effects or other antiretroviral tablet issues (15 studies); lack of perceived benefit of ART (13 studies); psychological, mental health or drug use (13 studies); concerns about stigma or confidentiality (14 studies); lack of social or family support (12 studies); socio-economic reasons (16 studies); health facility-related reasons (11 studies); and acute proximal events such as unexpected mobility (12 studies). The most common reasons for disengagement were unexpected events, socio-economic reasons, ART side effects or lack of perceived benefit of ART. Conceptually, studies described underlying vulnerability factors (individual, interpersonal, structural and healthcare) but that often unexpected proximal events (e.g. unanticipated mobility) acted as the trigger for disengagement to occur. DISCUSSION People disengage from ART care for individual, interpersonal, structural and healthcare reasons, and these reasons overlap and interact with each other. While HIV programmes cannot predict and address all events that may lead to disengagement, an approach that recognizes that such shocks will happen could help. CONCLUSIONS Health services should focus on ways to encourage clients to engage with care by making ART services welcoming, person-centred and more flexible alongside offering adherence interventions, such as counselling and peer support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael M. Burke
- Clinical Research DepartmentLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Clinical Research ProgrammeQueen Elizabeth Central HospitalBlantyreMalawi
| | - Hannah M. Rickman
- Clinical Research DepartmentLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Clinical Research ProgrammeQueen Elizabeth Central HospitalBlantyreMalawi
| | - Clarice Pinto
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs ProgrammeWorld Health OrganisationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Peter Ehrenkranz
- Global Health, Bill & Melinda Gates FoundationSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Augustine Choko
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Clinical Research ProgrammeQueen Elizabeth Central HospitalBlantyreMalawi
- International Public Health DepartmentLiverpool School of Tropical MedicineLiverpoolUK
| | - Nathan Ford
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs ProgrammeWorld Health OrganisationGenevaSwitzerland
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public Health and Family MedicineFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
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Obeng BM, Kelleher AD, Di Giallonardo F. Molecular epidemiology to aid virtual elimination of HIV transmission in Australia. Virus Res 2024; 341:199310. [PMID: 38185332 PMCID: PMC10825322 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199310] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The Global UNAIDS 95/95/95 targets aim to increase the percentage of persons who know their HIV status, receive antiretroviral therapy, and have achieved viral suppression. Achieving these targets requires efforts to improve the public health response to increase access to care for those living with HIV, identify those yet undiagnosed with HIV early, and increase access to prevention for those most at risk of HIV acquisition. HIV infections in Australia are among the lowest globally having recorded significant declines in new diagnoses in the last decade. However, the HIV epidemic has changed with an increasing proportion of newly diagnosed infections among those born outside Australia observed in the last five years. Thus, the current prevention efforts are not enough to achieve the UNAIDS targets and virtual elimination across all population groups. We believe both are possible by including molecular epidemiology in the public health response. Molecular epidemiology methods have been crucial in the field of HIV prevention, particularly in demonstrating the efficacy of treatment as prevention. Cluster detection using molecular epidemiology can provide opportunities for the real-time detection of new outbreaks before they grow, and cluster detection programs are now part of the public health response in the USA and Canada. Here, we review what molecular epidemiology has taught us about HIV evolution and spread. We summarize how we can use this knowledge to improve public health measures by presenting case studies from the USA and Canada. We discuss the successes and challenges of current public health programs in Australia, and how we could use cluster detection as an add-on to identify gaps in current prevention measures easier and respond quicker to growing clusters. Lastly, we raise important ethical and legal challenges that need to be addressed when HIV genotypic data is used in combination with personal data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billal M Obeng
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Anderson K, Kalk E, Heekes A, Phelanyane F, Jacob N, Boulle A, Mehta U, Kassanjee R, Sridhar G, Ragone L, Vannappagari V, Davies M. Factors associated with vertical transmission of HIV in the Western Cape, South Africa: a retrospective cohort analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26235. [PMID: 38528395 PMCID: PMC10963590 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26235] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Monitoring mother-infant pairs with HIV exposure is needed to assess the effectiveness of vertical transmission (VT) prevention programmes and progress towards VT elimination. METHODS We used routinely collected data on infants with HIV exposure, born May 2018-April 2021 in the Western Cape, South Africa, with follow-up through mid-2022. We assessed the proportion of infants diagnosed with HIV at birth (≤7 days), 10 weeks (>1 to 14 weeks) and >14 weeks as proxies for intrauterine, intrapartum/early breastfeeding and late breastfeeding transmission, respectively. We used mixed-effects Poisson regression to assess factors associated with VT in mothers known with HIV by delivery. RESULTS We included 50,461 infants born to mothers known with HIV by delivery. HIV was diagnosed in 894 (1.8%) infants. Among mothers, 51% started antiretroviral treatment (ART) before and 27% during pregnancy; 17% restarted during pregnancy after ≥6 months interruption; and 6% had no recorded ART during pregnancy. Most pregnancy ART regimens included non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (83%). Of mothers with available results (90% with viral load [VL]; 70% with CD4), VL nearest delivery was <100 copies/ml in 78% and CD4 count ≥350 cells/μl in 62%. HIV-PCR results were available for 86%, 67% and 48% of eligible infants at birth, 10 weeks and >14 weeks. Among these infants, 0.9%, 0.4% and 1.5% were diagnosed positive at birth, 10 weeks and >14 weeks, respectively. Among infants diagnosed with HIV, 43%, 16% and 41% were diagnosed at these respective time periods. Among mothers with VL<100, 100-999, 1000-99,000 and ≥100,000 copies/ml nearest delivery, infant HIV diagnosis incidence was 0.4%, 2.3%, 6.6% and 18.4%, respectively. Increased VT was strongly associated with recent elevated maternal VL with a seven-fold increased rate with even modestly elevated VL (100-999 vs. <100 copies/ml). VT was also associated with unknown/low maternal CD4, maternal age <20 years, no antenatal ART, later maternal ART start/restart in pregnancy and ART gaps. CONCLUSIONS Despite high maternal ART coverage and routine postnatal prophylaxis, ongoing VT remains a concern. Timing of infant HIV diagnoses suggests intrapartum and/or breastfeeding transmission in nearly 60%. Interventions to ensure retention on ART and sustained maternal viral suppression are needed to reduce VT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Anderson
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Emma Kalk
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Alexa Heekes
- Health Intelligence, Western Cape Department of HealthCape TownSouth Africa
| | | | - Nisha Jacob
- Division of Public Health MedicineSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Andrew Boulle
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Health Intelligence, Western Cape Department of HealthCape TownSouth Africa
- Division of Public Health MedicineSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Ushma Mehta
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Reshma Kassanjee
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | | | | | - Vani Vannappagari
- ViiV HealthcareDurhamNorth CarolinaUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyGilling School of Public HealthUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Mary‐Ann Davies
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Health Intelligence, Western Cape Department of HealthCape TownSouth Africa
- Division of Public Health MedicineSchool of Public HealthFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
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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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Diop-Ndiaye H, Sène PY, Coulibaly K, Diallo M, Diallo S, Diop K, Sow-Ndoye A, Fall M, Ndiaye AJS, Mathebula E, Ba AA, Lejeune C, Manga NMP, Camara M, Ndour CT, Kane CT. m-PIMA™ HIV1/2 VL: A suitable tool for HIV-1 and HIV-2 viral load quantification in West Africa. J Virol Methods 2024; 324:114872. [PMID: 38128833 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2023.114872] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Point-of-Care for HIV viral RNA quantification seems to be a complementary strategy to the existing conventional systems. This study evaluated the performance of the m-PIMA™ HIV1/2 Viral Load for the quantification of both HIV-1 and HIV-2 RNA viral load. A total of 555 HIV-1 and 90 HIV-2 samples previously tested by Abbott RealTime HIV-1 (Abbott, Chicago, USA) and Generic HIV-2® Charge virale (Biocentric, France) were tested using the m-PIMA™ HIV1/2 Viral Load at the HIV National Reference lab in Senegal. For HIV-1, Pearson correlation and Bland-Altman plots showed a coefficient r = 0.97 and a bias of -0.11 log10 copies/ml (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.086 to -0.133 log10 copies/ml) for the m-PIMA™ HIV1/2 Viral Load, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity at 3 log10 copies/ml (threshold of virological failure) were 93.6% (95%[CI]: 91.5% to 95.6%) and 99.1% (95%[CI]: 98.3% to 99.9%), respectively. For HIV-2, a correlation of r = 0.95 was also noted with a bias of - 0.229 log10 copies/ml (95%[CI]: -0.161 to -0.297 log10 copies/ml). Sensitivity and specificity at 3 log10 copies/ml were 97.6% (95%[CI]: 94.3% to 100%) and 93.9% (95%[CI]: 88.9% to 98.8%), respectively. These results confirmed that m-PIMA™ HIV1/2 VL could be a good alternative for HIV-1 and HIV-2 viral load testing in decentralized settings in Senegal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halimatou Diop-Ndiaye
- Cheikh Anta Diop University and Bacteriology-Virology UTH Aristide le Dantec, Dakar, Senegal.
| | | | | | | | - Sada Diallo
- Bacteriology-Virology UTH Aristide le Dantec, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Karim Diop
- Division de Lutte contre le SIDA/IST, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Aissatou Sow-Ndoye
- Institut de Recherche en Santé, de surveillance épidémiologique et de Formation, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Mengue Fall
- Bacteriology-Virology UTH Aristide le Dantec, Dakar, Senegal
| | | | - Evans Mathebula
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | | | | | - Makhtar Camara
- Cheikh Anta Diop University and Bacteriology-Virology UTH Aristide le Dantec, Dakar, Senegal
| | | | - Coumba Toure Kane
- Institut de Recherche en Santé, de surveillance épidémiologique et de Formation, Dakar, Senegal
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Rosen JG, Ssekubugu R, Chang LW, Ssempijja V, Galiwango RM, Ssekasanvu J, Ndyanabo A, Kisakye A, Nakigozi G, Rucinski KB, Patel EU, Kennedy CE, Nalugoda F, Kigozi G, Ratmann O, Nelson LJ, Mills LA, Kabatesi D, Tobian AAR, Quinn TC, Kagaayi J, Reynolds SJ, Grabowski MK. Temporal dynamics and drivers of durable HIV viral load suppression and persistent high- and low-level viraemia during Universal Test and Treat scale-up in Uganda: a population-based study. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26200. [PMID: 38332519 PMCID: PMC10853573 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26200] [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: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Population-level data on durable HIV viral load suppression (VLS) following the implementation of Universal Test and Treat (UTT) in Africa are limited. We assessed trends in durable VLS and viraemia among persons living with HIV in 40 Ugandan communities during the UTT scale-up. METHODS In 2015-2020, we measured VLS (<200 RNA copies/ml) among participants in the Rakai Community Cohort Study, a longitudinal population-based HIV surveillance cohort in southern Uganda. Persons with unsuppressed viral loads were characterized as having low-level (200-999 copies/ml) or high-level (≥1000 copies/ml) viraemia. Individual virologic outcomes were assessed over two consecutive RCCS survey visits (i.e. visit-pairs; ∼18-month visit intervals) and classified as durable VLS (<200 copies/ml at both visits), new/renewed VLS (<200 copies/ml at follow-up only), viral rebound (<200 copies/ml at initial visit only) or persistent viraemia (≥200 copies/ml at both visits). Population prevalence of each outcome was assessed over calendar time. Community-level prevalence and individual-level predictors of persistent high-level viraemia were also assessed using multivariable Poisson regression with generalized estimating equations. RESULTS Overall, 3080 participants contributed 4604 visit-pairs over three survey rounds. Most visit-pairs (72.4%) exhibited durable VLS, with few (2.5%) experiencing viral rebound. Among those with any viraemia at the initial visit (23.5%, n = 1083), 46.9% remained viraemic through follow-up, 91.3% of which was high-level viraemia. One-fifth (20.8%) of visit-pairs exhibiting persistent high-level viraemia self-reported antiretroviral therapy (ART) use for ≥12 months. Prevalence of persistent high-level viraemia varied substantially across communities and was significantly elevated among young persons aged 15-29 years (vs. 40- to 49-year-olds; adjusted risk ratio [adjRR] = 2.96; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 2.21-3.96), males (vs. females; adjRR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.87-3.07), persons reporting inconsistent condom use with non-marital/casual partners (vs. persons with marital/permanent partners only; adjRR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.10-1.74) and persons reporting hazardous alcohol use (adjRR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.03-1.16). The prevalence of persistent high-level viraemia was highest among males <30 years (32.0%). CONCLUSIONS Following universal ART provision, most persons living with HIV in south-central Uganda are durably suppressed. Among persons exhibiting any viraemia, nearly half exhibited high-level viraemia for ≥12 months and reported higher-risk behaviours associated with onward HIV transmission. Intensified efforts linking individuals to HIV treatment services could accelerate momentum towards HIV epidemic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Gregory Rosen
- Department of International HealthJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | | | - Larry W. Chang
- Department of International HealthJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Rakai Health Sciences ProgramEntebbeUganda
- Division of Infectious DiseasesJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Victor Ssempijja
- Rakai Health Sciences ProgramEntebbeUganda
- Clinical Monitoring Research Program DirectorateFrederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMarylandUSA
| | | | - Joseph Ssekasanvu
- Department of International HealthJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Rakai Health Sciences ProgramEntebbeUganda
| | | | | | | | - Katherine B. Rucinski
- Department of International HealthJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Eshan U. Patel
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Caitlin E. Kennedy
- Department of International HealthJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Rakai Health Sciences ProgramEntebbeUganda
| | | | | | | | - Lisa J. Nelson
- Division of Global HIV and TBCenters for Disease Control and PreventionKampalaUganda
| | - Lisa A. Mills
- Division of Global HIV and TBCenters for Disease Control and PreventionKampalaUganda
| | - Donna Kabatesi
- Division of Global HIV and TBCenters for Disease Control and PreventionKampalaUganda
| | - Aaron A. R. Tobian
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of PathologyJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Thomas C. Quinn
- Department of International HealthJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Rakai Health Sciences ProgramEntebbeUganda
- Division of Infectious DiseasesJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Division of Intramural ResearchNational Institute of Allergy and Infectious DiseasesNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | | | - Steven J. Reynolds
- Rakai Health Sciences ProgramEntebbeUganda
- Division of Infectious DiseasesJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Division of Intramural ResearchNational Institute of Allergy and Infectious DiseasesNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Mary Kathryn Grabowski
- Rakai Health Sciences ProgramEntebbeUganda
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of PathologyJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
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25
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Calabrese SK, Kalwicz DA, Zaheer MA, Dovidio JF, Garner A, Zea MC, Treloar C, Holt M, Smith AKJ, MacGibbon J, Modrakovic DX, Rao S, Eaton LA. The Potential Role of Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) in Reducing HIV Stigma among Sexual Minority Men in the US. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:741-757. [PMID: 38285293 PMCID: PMC11043859 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04263-1] [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] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
The Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) message and its scientific underpinnings have been widely suggested to reduce HIV stigma. However, misunderstanding and skepticism about U = U may prevent this destigmatizing potential from being fully realized. This cross-sectional study examined associations between U = U belief (belief that someone with a sustained undetectable viral load has zero risk of sexually transmitting HIV) and HIV stigma among US sexual minority men. Differences by serostatus and effects of brief informational messaging were also explored. The survey was completed online by 106 men living with HIV and 351 HIV-negative/status-unknown men (2019-2020). Participants were 18-83 years old (M[SD] = 41[13.0]). Most were non-Hispanic White (70.0%) and gay (82.9%). Although nearly all participants (95.6%) were aware of U = U, only 41.1% believed U = U. A greater percentage of participants living with HIV (66.0%) believed U = U compared with HIV-negative/status-unknown participants (33.6%). Among participants living with HIV, U = U belief was not significantly associated with perceived, internalized, or experienced HIV stigma or with viral load prejudice (prejudice against people who have a detectable HIV viral load). Among HIV-negative/status-unknown participants, U = U belief was associated with less frequently enacted HIV discrimination, more positive feelings toward people with an undetectable viral load, and lower personal endorsement of stigmatizing beliefs. Brief informational messaging about U = U did not affect most stigma dimensions and did not favorably affect any. Interventions are needed to correct commonly held, outdated misconceptions about HIV transmission risk. Such initiatives must not only engage people living with HIV but also engage HIV-negative/status-unknown people to maximize the destigmatizing potential of U = U.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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.
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - David A Kalwicz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
| | - 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
| | - John F Dovidio
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Alex Garner
- Hornet Gay Social Network, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- MPact Global Action for Gay Men's Health and Rights, West Hollywood, CA, USA
| | - Maria Cecilia Zea
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, 2013 H Street NW, Washington, DC, 20006, USA
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony K J Smith
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - James MacGibbon
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Djordje X Modrakovic
- 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
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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26
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Waters L, Hassan Wada Y, Barber TJ. International AIDS society conference 2023 summary. HIV Med 2024; 25:168-173. [PMID: 37872882 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13563] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
AIM This article summarizes key research presented at the International AIDS Society (IAS) Conference in Brisbane, held in July 2023. CO-MORBIDITIES The REPRIEVE Trial as a conference highlight, demonstrating significantly fewer major cardiovascular events amongst people with HIV who were randomized to pitavastatin compared to placebo. Key data on weight, hypertension and incident diabetes are also summarized. ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY Novel data on doravirine and islatravir are described as are trials demonstrating efficacy dolutegravir/lamivudine first-line in people without baseline resistance testing and in suppressed switch amongst people with historic lamivudine resistance. HIV CURE The sixth case of HIV cure secondary to stem cell transplantation is summarized, as are new insights into the central nervous system as an HIV reservoir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Waters
- Department of HIV & Sexual Health, Central & North West London NHS Trust, London, UK
- Institute of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Tristan J Barber
- Institute of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- Ian Charleson Day Centre, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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27
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Cafaro A, Schietroma I, Sernicola L, Belli R, Campagna M, Mancini F, Farcomeni S, Pavone-Cossut MR, Borsetti A, Monini P, Ensoli B. Role of HIV-1 Tat Protein Interactions with Host Receptors in HIV Infection and Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1704. [PMID: 38338977 PMCID: PMC10855115 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031704] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Each time the virus starts a new round of expression/replication, even under effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), the transactivator of viral transcription Tat is one of the first HIV-1 protein to be produced, as it is strictly required for HIV replication and spreading. At this stage, most of the Tat protein exits infected cells, accumulates in the extracellular matrix and exerts profound effects on both the virus and neighbor cells, mostly of the innate and adaptive immune systems. Through these effects, extracellular Tat contributes to the acquisition of infection, spreading and progression to AIDS in untreated patients, or to non-AIDS co-morbidities in ART-treated individuals, who experience inflammation and immune activation despite virus suppression. Here, we review the role of extracellular Tat in both the virus life cycle and on cells of the innate and adaptive immune system, and we provide epidemiological and experimental evidence of the importance of targeting Tat to block residual HIV expression and replication. Finally, we briefly review vaccine studies showing that a therapeutic Tat vaccine intensifies ART, while its inclusion in a preventative vaccine may blunt escape from neutralizing antibodies and block early events in HIV acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelio Cafaro
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.S.); (L.S.); (R.B.); (M.C.); (F.M.); (S.F.); (M.R.P.-C.); (A.B.); (P.M.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Barbara Ensoli
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.S.); (L.S.); (R.B.); (M.C.); (F.M.); (S.F.); (M.R.P.-C.); (A.B.); (P.M.)
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28
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Cuzin L, Morisot A, Allavena C, Lert F, Pugliese P. Drastic Reduction in Time to Controlled Viral Load in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in France, 2009-2019: A Longitudinal Cohort Study. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:111-117. [PMID: 37665056 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad530] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aspirational targets to end AIDS by 2030 include having 95% of people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV; PWH) diagnosed, 95% treated, and 95% with controlled viral load (VL). Our objective was to describe, using a large French prospective cohort, the median transition times through the cascade of care between 2009 and 2019. METHODS We analyzed patients whose first HIV diagnosis was made between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2019. Using the Kaplan-Meier method, we estimated the time to linkage to care (from HIV diagnosis to first biological assessment), to treatment (date of first antiretroviral therapy [ART] prescription), and to controlled VL (first value <200 copies/mL). Analyses were disaggregated by time periods and patients' characteristics. Censoring date was 31 December 2021. RESULTS Among the 16 864 patients linked to care since 2009, the median [Q1; Q3] time from HIV diagnosis to controlled VL decreased from 254 [127-745] to 73 [48-132] days in 2009-2011 and 2018-2019, respectively. Transition times from linkage to care to first ART decreased from 67 [17; 414] in 2009-2011 to 13 [5; 26] days in 2018-2019, and from ART to controlled VL from 83 [35; 130] in 2009-2011 to 38 [28; 90] days in 2018-2019. Differences were observed depending on patients' characteristics. CONCLUSIONS We describe drastic reductions in transition time through the cascade of care, allowing reduction in the transmission period following each new infection. Delayed diagnosis remains the main obstacle to ending AIDS in the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Cuzin
- CERPOP, Toulouse University, INSERM UMR1295, UPS, Toulouse, France
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Martinique University Hospital, Fort de France, Martinique (FWI)
| | - Adeline Morisot
- Corevih Paca-Est, Archet Hospital, Côte d'Azur University, Nice, France
| | - Clotilde Allavena
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department, Nantes University Hospital, INSERM CIC1413, Nantes, France
| | | | - Pascal Pugliese
- Corevih Paca-Est, Archet Hospital, Côte d'Azur University, Nice, France
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29
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Raberahona M, Rakotomalala R, Andriananja V, Andriamamonjisoa J, Rakotomijoro E, Andrianasolo RL, Rakotoarivelo RA, Randria MJDD. A retrospective cohort analysis of people living with HIV/AIDS enrolled in HIV care at a reference center in Antananarivo, Madagascar. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1329194. [PMID: 38288430 PMCID: PMC10822960 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1329194] [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: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The impact of the "Treat all" policy on the individual and in terms of public health is closely related to early diagnosis and retention in care. Patient-level data are scarce in Madagascar. In this study, we aimed to describe the profile of a cohort of newly diagnosed people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV), identify their outcomes, and assess factors associated with attrition from care and advanced HIV disease (AHD) at presentation. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of PLHIV aged ≥15 years newly diagnosed at the University Hospital Joseph Raseta Befelatanana Antananarivo from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2016. Results A total of 490 PLHIV were included in the cohort analysis. In total, 67.1% were male. The median age (interquartile range) at enrollment in care was 29 years (24-38). Overall, 36.1% of PLHIV were diagnosed with AHD at baseline. The proportion of patients with WHO stage IV at baseline increased significantly from 3.3% in 2010 to 31% in 2016 (p = 0.001 for trend). The probability of retention in care after the diagnosis at 12 months, 24 months, and 36 months was 71.8%, 65.5%, and 61.3%, respectively. Age ≥ 40 years (aHR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.05-2.29; p = 0.026), low level of education (aHR:1.62; 95% CI: 1.11-2.36; p = 0,013), unspecified level of education (aHR:2.18; 95% CI: 1.37-3.47; p = 0.001) and unemployment (aHR:1.52; 95% CI: 1.07-2.16; p = 0.019) were independently associated with attrition from care. Factors associated with AHD at baseline were age ≥ 40 (aOR: 2.77; 95% CI: 1.38-5.57, p = 0.004), unspecified level of education (aOR: 3.80; 95% CI: 1.58-9.16, p = 0.003) and presence of clinical symptoms at baseline (aOR: 23.81; 95% CI: 10.7-52.98; p < 0.001). Sex workers were independently less likely to have an AHD at presentation (aOR: 0.23; 95% CI: 0.05-0.96, p = 0.044). Conclusion Sociodemographic determinants influenced retention in care more than clinical factors. The presence of clinical symptoms and sociodemographic determinants were the main factors associated with AHD at baseline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaja Raberahona
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Joseph Raseta Befelatanana Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Rado Rakotomalala
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Joseph Raseta Befelatanana Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Volatiana Andriananja
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Joseph Raseta Befelatanana Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Johary Andriamamonjisoa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Joseph Raseta Befelatanana Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Etienne Rakotomijoro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Joseph Raseta Befelatanana Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | | | - Rivonirina Andry Rakotoarivelo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Tambohobe Fianarantsoa, University of Fianarantsoa, Fianarantsoa, Madagascar
| | - Mamy Jean de Dieu Randria
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Joseph Raseta Befelatanana Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
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30
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Han WM, Broom J, Bopage R, Templeton DJ, Edmiston N, Petoumenos K. Investigating rates and predictors of viral blips, low-level viraemia and virological failure in the Australian HIV observational database. Trop Med Int Health 2024; 29:42-56. [PMID: 38009461 PMCID: PMC11108647 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13951] [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: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Australia has made significant progress towards achieving the UNAIDS's 95-95-95 cascade targets including HIV viral suppression. To investigate the burden of HIV viraemia, we assessed viral blips, low-level viraemia (LLV) and virologic failure (VF) in an Australian cohort. METHODS We studied the proportion of people with viral suppression, viral blips, LLV and VF in the Australian HIV observational database (AHOD) between 2010 and 2021. The association between blips or LLV, and VF was investigated using Cox regression, and predictors of viral blips and LLV were assessed using repeated-measured logistic regression. RESULTS Among 2544 AHOD participants who were in follow-up and on antiretroviral therapy (ART) from 1 January 2010 (88.7% male), 444 had experienced VF (incidence rate: 2.45 [95% CI: 2.23-2.69] per 100 person-years [PY]) during 18,125 PY of follow-up (a median of 7.6 years). The proportion of people with VF decreased over time, whereas rates of blips and LLV remained stable. Participants with blips (hazard ratio, 2.89; 95% CI: 2.31-3.61) and LLV (4.46; 95% CI: 3.38-5.89) were at increased risk of VF. Hepatitis B co-infection, longer documented treatment interruption duration, younger age and lower CD4 at ART initiation, and protease inhibitors-based initial regimen were associated with an increased risk of VF. Common predictors of blips and LLV such as higher HIV-1 RNA and lower CD4 at ART initiation, longer treatment interruption, more VL testing and types of care settings (hospitals vs. sexual health services) were identified. CONCLUSIONS Blips and LLV predict subsequent VF development. We identified important predictors of HIV viraemia including VF among individuals on INSTI-based regimens to help direct HIV management plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Win Min Han
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jennifer Broom
- Infectious Diseases Research Network, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Rohan Bopage
- Western Sydney Sexual Health Centre and Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - David J Templeton
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Sexual Health Medicine and Sexual Assault Medical Service, Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, Australia
- Discipline of Medicine, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Natalie Edmiston
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
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31
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Mudra Rakshasa-Loots A, van Wyhe KS, Naidoo S, Daizana N, Laughton B, Boyana T. Taking lead from the community: What do young people living with HIV want us to research? PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002605. [PMID: 38079383 PMCID: PMC10712858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Priority setting workshops enable researchers to take the lead from people with relevant lived experience, and design research which authentically responds to community needs. Large-scale global priority setting exercises have previously identified key research questions related to paediatric and adolescent HIV treatment, prevention, and service delivery. However, priority setting workshops focused on the needs of young people living with HIV are lacking in southern Africa. Here, we report the outcome of a priority setting workshop organised in Cape Town, South Africa with 19 young people living with HIV and their parents and caregivers. Workshops were facilitated by trained research and clinical staff, who provided a plain-language introduction to research questions for the attendees. During the day-long workshop, attendees developed a list of research questions concerning HIV-related physical health, mental health, and psychosocial support and later voted on the order of importance for the questions which they had collectively identified. Facilitators did not prompt any questions or amend the phrasing of questions generated by the attendees. A cure for HIV was highlighted as the most important research priority for young people living with HIV. Other priorities for young people included the effects of antiretroviral therapy on the body, the brain, and their social relationships, causes of emotional issues such as depression and mood swings, and potential interventions to reduce HIV-related stigma in schools through positive education for teachers and students. Research priorities for parents and caregivers included improving antiretroviral adherence through long-acting injections, mental health impacts of HIV status disclosure without consent, and improving support provided by local community clinics. The research questions identified through this workshop may be used by researchers to develop future studies which truly benefit young people living with HIV in South Africa and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arish Mudra Rakshasa-Loots
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Edinburgh Neuroscience, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kaylee S. van Wyhe
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- ACSENT Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Shalena Naidoo
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ntuthu Daizana
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Barbara Laughton
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tembela Boyana
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Wu F, Simonetti FR. Learning from Persistent Viremia: Mechanisms and Implications for Clinical Care and HIV-1 Cure. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:428-439. [PMID: 37955826 PMCID: PMC10719122 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00674-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: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this review, we discuss what persistent viremia has taught us about the biology of the HIV-1 reservoir during antiretroviral therapy (ART). We will also discuss the implications of this phenomenon for HIV-1 cure research and its clinical management. RECENT FINDINGS While residual viremia (RV, 1-3 HIV-1 RNA copies/ml) can be detected in most of people on ART, some individuals experience non-suppressible viremia (NSV, > 20-50 copies/mL) despite optimal adherence. When issues of drug resistance and pharmacokinetics are ruled out, this persistent virus in plasma is the reflection of virus production from clonally expanded CD4+ T cells carrying proviruses. Recent work has shown that a fraction of the proviruses source of NSV are not infectious, due to defects in the 5'-Leader sequence. However, additional viruses and host determinants of NSV are not fully understood. The study of NSV is of prime importance because it represents a challenge for the clinical care of people on ART, and it sheds light on virus-host interactions that could advance HIV-1 remission research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengting Wu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Francesco R Simonetti
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Lee MJ, Godakandaarachchi P, Collins S, Racz M, Sharp A, Fidler S, Fox J. Understanding participant perspectives around HIV-1 cure-related studies involving antiretroviral analytical treatment interruptions in the United Kingdom. J Virus Erad 2023; 9:100360. [PMID: 38188642 PMCID: PMC10770752 DOI: 10.1016/j.jve.2023.100360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background To test efficacy, HIV cure-related trials often require a period of intensively monitored interruption of antiretroviral therapy (ART) (analytical treatment interruption or ATI). As individuals who started ART during primary HIV-1 infection (PHI) are often recruited, we have asked people already enrolled into an observational PHI study about their willingness and concerns around participating in cure-related studies involving ATIs. Methods People who were diagnosed with PHI and started ART, attending two London HIV clinics, provided informed consent to complete a digital survey in clinic between 21/07/21 to October 31, 2023. Questions comprised sociodemographics, motivations, concerns and practical considerations influencing willingness to participate in studies involving ATIs. Hierarchical clustering of responses was performed using the 'pheatmap' R statistical package and ranked from most to least concerned. Responses were cross-referenced with enrolment into an ATI study which recruited from this cohort. Results Of 352 eligible participants, 75 completed the survey. The majority were white, cisgender men who have sex with men, 34/75 (45 %) were born outside the UK. 29 (39 %) expressed interest in joining ATI studies. Participants who were interested or unsure in joining ATI studies were primarily motivated (53/65, 82 % very or moderately interested) by an altruistic desire to help scientific research. Across all participants, onward HIV transmission was the predominant concern (67/75, 89 % very or moderately concerned), and similar levels of concerns reported if the HIV-1 viral load threshold to restarting ART was increased from 500 to 50 000 copies/mL. Most participants preferred weekly (23/65, 35 %) or fortnightly (11/65, 17 %) viral load monitoring during an ATI. Before taking part in a study involving an ATI, participants stated they would prefer to discuss this with their HIV doctor (55/65, 85 %). Conclusion In this small survey, 39 % of respondents expressed interest in joining studies involving ATIs, primarily for altruistic reasons. Participants were more interested in joining a potential ATI study if a novel intervention was included than simply an ATI alone. The main concern expressed was risk of viral transmission. To inform practical and study design considerations for future ATI studies, unrestricted access for mitigation of transmission risk should be included, and regular, frequent viral load monitoring is preferred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming J. Lee
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, UK
| | | | | | - Mariusz Racz
- Harrison Wing, Department of HIV, Guy's and St Thomas Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Alice Sharp
- Harrison Wing, Department of HIV, Guy's and St Thomas Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Sarah Fidler
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Julie Fox
- Harrison Wing, Department of HIV, Guy's and St Thomas Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UK
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Rodriguez Gonzalez H, Volcan AI, Castonguay BJU, Carda-Auten J, Ruiz C, Peretti M, Suarez A, Kerrigan D, Wohl DA, Barrington C. "What Is the Benefit?": Perceptions and Preferences for Long-Acting Injectable Antiretroviral Therapy Among People Living With HIV. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2023; 35:467-483. [PMID: 38096455 PMCID: PMC10785827 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2023.35.6.467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapy (LA-ART) expands treatment options for people living with HIV (PLWH). This qualitative study characterizes LA-ART awareness, perceptions, and preferences among PLWH engaged in HIV care. From 2019 through 2021, we conducted semistructured in-depth interviews with 71 PLWH sampled from three clinics in three U.S. settings (North Carolina, Washington, DC, Massachusetts). Transcripts were analyzed using narrative and thematic techniques. Participant mean age was 46 years (range 24-72); most were cisgender men (55%) and virally suppressed (73%). Most participants had not heard of LA-ART and reacted with a mix of excitement and cautiousness. Potential LA-ART benefits included easier adherence, privacy, and effectiveness; concerns included effectiveness, side effects, costs, and increased clinic visits. Participants appreciated that LA-ART could support achieving and sustaining viral suppression. To inform their decision, participants wanted more information and convenient access and administration. Findings indicated that a shared decision-making approach and economic and logistical support for PLWH could facilitate LA-ART uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humberto Rodriguez Gonzalez
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Andrea Isabel Volcan
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Breana Jae Uhrig Castonguay
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jessica Carda-Auten
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Carolina Ruiz
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Matteo Peretti
- Fenway Institute at Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Angela Suarez
- Program Integration and Evaluation, La Clinica Del Pueblo, Washington, D.C
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, D.C
| | - David Alain Wohl
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Clare Barrington
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Nelson FA, Louis H, Benjamin I, A Timothy R. The iron group transition-metal (Fe, Ru, Os) coordination of Se-doped graphitic carbon (Se@g-C 3N 4) nanostructures for the smart therapeutic delivery of zidovudine (ZVD) as an antiretroviral drug: a theoretical calculation perspective. RSC Adv 2023; 13:34078-34096. [PMID: 38020013 PMCID: PMC10660211 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra06885d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study employed density functional theory (DFT) computational techniques at the ωB97XD/def2svp level of theory to comprehensively explore the electronic behavior of Fe-group transition metal (Fe, Ru, Os) coordination of Se-doped graphitic carbon (Se@g-C3N4) nanosystems in the smart delivery of zidovudine (ZVD), an antiretroviral drug. The HOMO-LUMO results of the interactions show a general reduction in energy gap values across all complexes in the following order: ZVD_Se@C3N4 < ZVD_Ru_Se@C3N4 < ZVD_Fe_Se@C3N4 < ZVD_Os_Se@C3N4. ZVD_Se@C3N4 exhibits the smallest post-interaction band gap of 3.783 eV, while ZVD_Os_Se@C3N4 presents the highest energy band gap of 5.438 eV. Results from the corrected adsorption energy (BSSE) revealed that Os_Se@C3N4 and Ru_Se@C3N4 demonstrated more negative adsorption energies of -2.67 and -2.701 eV, respectively, pointing to a more favorable interaction between ZVD and these systems, thus potentially enhancing the drug delivery efficiency. The investigation into the drug release mechanism from the adsorbents involved a comprehensive examination of the dipole moment and the influence of pH, shedding light on the controlled release of ZVD. Additionally, investigating the energy decomposition analysis (EDA) revealed that ZVD_Ru_Se@C3N4 and ZVD_Fe_Se@C3N4 exhibited the same total energy of -787.7 kJ mol-1. This intriguing similarity in their total energy levels suggested that their stability was governed by factors beyond reactivity, possibly due to intricate orbital interactions. Furthermore, analyzing the bond dissociation energies showed that all systems exhibited negative enthalpy values, indicating that these systems were exothermic at both surface and interaction levels, thus suggesting that these processes emitted heat, contributing to the surrounding thermal energy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Favour A Nelson
- Computational and Bio-simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
| | - Hitler Louis
- Computational and Bio-simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Centre for Herbal Pharmacology and Environmental Sustainability, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education Kelambakkam 603103 Tamil Nadu India
| | - Innocent Benjamin
- Computational and Bio-simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Department of Microbiology, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
| | - Rawlings A Timothy
- Computational and Bio-simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
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Abstract
This Viewpoint discusses the importance of the US Congress reauthorizing funding for the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, a program developed in 2003 that has played a critical role in fighting HIV/AIDS worldwide as well as other emerging infections and noncommunicable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Gandhi
- Center for AIDS Research, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Eric Goosby
- Center for Global Health Delivery, Diplomacy, and Economics, Institute for Global Health, University of California, San Francisco
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Rodriguez MG, Syros A, Rodriguez AE, Serota DP. The Perils of Overly Sensitive Viral Load Testing for Persons With Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Open Forum Infect Dis 2023; 10:ofad494. [PMID: 37849507 PMCID: PMC10578508 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of "undetectable = untransmittable (U = U)" has been revolutionary in both the prevention and treatment of persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Most studies proving the concept of U = U used an HIV RNA (viral load [VL]) cutoff of 200 copies/mL to define being undetectable. Since then, increasingly sensitive commercial VL assays, sometimes down to a lower limit of detection (LLD) of 20 copies/mL, lead to confusion about the definition of "undetectable" and when someone is truly considered untransmittable. VLs between the LLD and 200 copies/mL have been associated with future virologic failure; however, no data exist to suggest that intervening in those patients leads to any meaningful benefits. In the absence of a demonstrable benefit of reporting such low VLs, we view this practice as harmful. We suggest recommendations for adjusting VL reporting and improving provider counseling, and call for research designs to mitigate the harms of overly sensitive VL testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria G Rodriguez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Alina Syros
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Allan E Rodriguez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - David P Serota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Hill K, Kuo I, Shenoi SV, Desruisseaux MS, Springer SA. Integrated Care Models: HIV and Substance Use. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:286-295. [PMID: 37698755 PMCID: PMC11034717 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00667-9] [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: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Behaviors and practices associated with substance use contribute to lack of HIV virologic suppression and onward transmission. In the USA, many recent HIV outbreaks have been connected with substance use. Evidence-based strategies for integrating care of those at risk for and living with HIV and who use substances continue to evolve. This review, based on scientific and medical literature through March 2023, provides an overview and evaluation of initiatives for integrated care aimed to serve patients at risk for and with HIV and a substance use disorder. RECENT FINDINGS Integrated care services can improve health outcomes for patients at risk for and with HIV and a substance use disorder; for instance, treatment for an opioid use disorder can help improve HIV viral suppression. Brick-and-mortar facilities can provide successful care integration with appropriate clinic leadership to support multidisciplinary care teams, up-to-date provider training, and sufficient pharmacy stock for substance use treatment. Delivering healthcare services to communities (e.g., mobile healthcare clinics and pharmacies, telehealth) may prove to be an effective way to provide integrated services for those with or at risk of HIV and substance use disorders. Incorporating technology (e.g., mobile phone applications) may facilitate integrated care. Other venues, including harm reduction programs and carceral settings, should be targets for integrated services. Venues providing healthcare should invest in integrated care and support legislation that increases access to services related to HIV and substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Hill
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Irene Kuo
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health at The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sheela V Shenoi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
- Yale Institute of Global Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- The Veterans Administration Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mahalia S Desruisseaux
- Yale Institute of Global Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sandra A Springer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.
- The Veterans Administration Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.
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Zhou Y, Cui M, Hong Z, Huang S, Zhou S, Lyu H, Li J, Lin Y, Huang H, Tang W, Sun C, Huang W. High Genetic Diversity of HIV-1 and Active Transmission Clusters among Male-to-Male Sexual Contacts (MMSCs) in Zhuhai, China. Viruses 2023; 15:1947. [PMID: 37766353 PMCID: PMC10535991 DOI: 10.3390/v15091947] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Monitoring genetic diversity and recent HIV infections (RHIs) is critical for understanding HIV epidemiology. Here, we report HIV-1 genetic diversity and RHIs in blood samples from 190 HIV-positive MMSCs in Zhuhai, China. MMSCs with newly reported HIV were enrolled from January 2020 to June 2022. A nested PCR was performed to amplify the HIV polymerase gene fragments at HXB2 positions 2604-3606. We constructed genetic transmission network at both 0.5% and 1.5% distance thresholds using the Tamura-Nei93 model. RHIs were identified using a recent infection testing algorithm (RITA) combining limiting antigen avidity enzyme immunoassay (LAg-EIA) assay with clinical data. The results revealed that 19.5% (37/190) were RHIs and 48.4% (92/190) were CRF07_BC. Two clusters were identified at a 0.5% distance threshold. Among them, one was infected with CRF07_BC for the long term, and the other was infected with CRF55_01B recently. We identified a total of 15 clusters at a 1.5% distance threshold. Among them, nine were infected with CRF07_BC subtype, and RHIs were found in 38.8% (19/49) distributed in eight genetic clusters. We identified a large active transmission cluster (n = 10) infected with a genetic variant, CRF79_0107. The multivariable logistic regression model showed that clusters were more likely to be RHIs (adjusted OR: 3.64, 95% CI: 1.51~9.01). The RHI algorithm can help to identify recent or ongoing transmission clusters where the prevention tools are mostly needed. Prompt public health measures are needed to contain the further spread of active transmission clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhou
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR, China;
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai 519060, China; (H.L.); (H.H.)
| | - Mingting Cui
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China;
| | - Zhongsi Hong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519001, China
| | - Shaoli Huang
- School of Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Shuntai Zhou
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Hang Lyu
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai 519060, China; (H.L.); (H.H.)
| | - Jiarun Li
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai 519060, China; (H.L.); (H.H.)
| | - Yixiong Lin
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai 519060, China; (H.L.); (H.H.)
| | - Huitao Huang
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai 519060, China; (H.L.); (H.H.)
| | - Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510315, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health and Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Guangzhou 510315, China
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou 510315, China
| | - Caijun Sun
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China;
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Wenyan Huang
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhuhai 519060, China; (H.L.); (H.H.)
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Seale A, Baggaley R, Vojnov L, Doherty M. Role of viral suppression in HIV treatment and prevention and its potential in addressing harmful laws and discrimination. Sex Health 2023; 20:181-185. [PMID: 37407497 DOI: 10.1071/sh23048] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organization's (WHO) global public health mandate includes a focus on expanding access to HIV testing, antiretroviral therapy (ART) and treatment monitoring to improve the clinical management of HIV, achieve sustained viral suppression, and prevent HIV-related incidence, morbidity, and mortality. This article documents key moments in research and WHO policies that have informed how ART is applied within HIV programs, including as a prevention tool with the potential to support efforts to address HIV-related discrimination. For more than 20years, WHO has promoted the benefits of HIV treatment including as part of the approach to prevent the mother-to-child transmission (vertical transmission) of HIV. WHO guidance has followed, and continues to follow, the evolving evidence. In 2023, WHO continues to clarify that there is zero risk of sexual HIV transmission when a person living with HIV has an undetectable viral load and an almost zero or negligible risk of sexual transmission when a person living with HIV has a viral load of ≤1000copies/mL - helping to evolve the focus of community campaigns and health worker training to include a focus on 'virally suppressed' while also continuing to emphasise the ultimate goal of achieving an undetectable viral load. This evolution does two things: first, it strongly reasserts the evidence around there being no chance of transmission if a person has an undetectable viral load; and second, it provides an extremely strong degree of confidence that, similarly, individuals who are virally suppressed will not pass on the virus sexually. WHO is now encouraging positive and clear messaging to highlight that the consistent use of ART prevents onwards HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Seale
- Department of Global HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Baggaley
- Department of Global HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lara Vojnov
- Department of Global HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Meg Doherty
- Department of Global HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
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