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Poon PKM, Wong NS, Leung WS, Wong BCK, Kwong TS, Kwan TH, Lui GCY, Tsang OTY, Lee MP, Wong KH, Lee SS. The differential impacts of early detection and accelerated antiretroviral therapy on the epidemiologic trend of sexually acquired HIV infection in Hong Kong. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274498. [PMID: 36103496 PMCID: PMC9473389 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274498] [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: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives
To assess impacts of early detection and prompt antiretroviral therapy (ART) on the latest epidemiologic situation to inform intervention strategy.
Methods
We analysed data from two clinical cohorts in Hong Kong where sexual transmission accounted for the majority of HIV infections. The two cohorts comprised patients newly diagnosed in 2007–2008 and 2016–2018 respectively. Secular trend and differences between men who have sex with men (MSM) and heterosexual patients were examined. Predictors of late presentation (defined as CD4 ≤350 or AIDS-defining illness within 3 months of diagnosis) and prolonged interval between diagnosis and ART initiation were assessed by multivariable regressions.
Results
There were 1,136 newly diagnosed HIV patients with 644 in the first and 492 in the second cohort, a majority (91.7%) presented with sexually acquired infection. There were less MSM in the first than the second cohort (50.3%% vs 87.8%, χ2 = 117.05, p<0.001). The mean (SD) number of days between diagnosis and ART initiation decreased from 514.3 (516.1) to 61.8 (94.2) days across the two cohorts. Younger age, non-Chinese, outpatient-based service and lower CD4 count were predictors of faster ART initiation in the first but not in the second cohort. Interval between diagnosis and ART initiation became highly uniform among groups in the second cohort. Nearly 60% were classified as late presenters in both cohorts. Heterosexuals (aOR 1.58, 95% CI 1.13–2.19) had a higher risk of late presentation.
Conclusions
There was remarkable improvement in acceleration of ART initiation. Clinical implementation of accelerated ART recommendations has been effective for both MSM and heterosexuals. Late presentation was more marked among heterosexuals and remained a problem. The continued phenomenon of late presentation could offset the epidemiologic gains from accelerated ART initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kwok-ming Poon
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ngai-sze Wong
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai-shing Leung
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bonnie Chun-kwan Wong
- Department of Health, Special Preventive Programme, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tsz-shan Kwong
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tsz-ho Kwan
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Grace Chung-yan Lui
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Owen Tak-yin Tsang
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Man-po Lee
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ka-hing Wong
- Department of Health, Special Preventive Programme, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shui-shan Lee
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- * E-mail:
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Biondi BE, Vander Wyk B, Schlossberg EF, Shaw A, Springer SA. Factors associated with retention on medications for opioid use disorder among a cohort of adults seeking treatment in the community. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2022; 17:15. [PMID: 35255967 PMCID: PMC8899775 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-022-00299-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) (MOUD; buprenorphine and methadone) reduces opioid use and overdose. Discontinuation of MOUD can quickly lead to relapse, overdose and death. Few persons who initiate MOUD are retained on treatment, thus it is critical to identify factors associated with retention. METHODS Evaluated data was from an ongoing prospective cohort study of adults aged 18 or older with DSM-5 moderate to severe OUD seeking MOUD in the community and followed for 6 months. Participants were considered retained on MOUD through 6 months if they reported taking MOUD at every study interview without discontinuation. A high dose of MOUD was defined as a methadone dose > 85 mg or buprenorphine dose ≥ 16 mg. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to assess factors associated with 6-month MOUD retention. RESULTS A total of 118 participants (73% male, 58% white, 36% with HIV) were included. Buprenorphine was initiated by 58% and 42% started methadone. MOUD retention was 49% and 58% among buprenorphine and methadone, respectively, at 6-months. In adjusted models, a high MOUD dose (OR = 4.71, 95% CI 2.05-10.84) and higher pain interference (OR = 1.59, 95% CI 1.15-2.19) was associated with MOUD retention. CONCLUSIONS Adequate dosing of MOUD leads to improved retention on MOUD. Further, persons with high pain interference at baseline had higher odds of retention on MOUD. Both methadone and buprenorphine have analgesic effects, thus those with high pain interference could have dual benefits of MOUD for treating OUD and pain. Interventions should be tailored to improve adequate MOUD dosing to improve retention on MOUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanne E Biondi
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brent Vander Wyk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Esther F Schlossberg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, Yale AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Albert Shaw
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, Yale AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sandra A Springer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, Yale AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research On AIDS, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Disease, Yale AIDS Program, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
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GLICK JL, RUSSO RG, HUANG AKH, JIVAPONG B, RAMASAMY V, ROSMAN LM, PELAEZ DL, SHERMAN SG. ART uptake and adherence among female sex workers (FSW) globally: A scoping review. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:254-284. [PMID: 33301704 PMCID: PMC8190161 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1858137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We conducted the first scoping literature review on ART uptake and adherence among Female Sex Workers (FSW), following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Sociological Abstracts. Eligibility criteria included: reporting an ART uptake or adherence result among FSW aged 18 or older; peer-reviewed; published in English between 1996 and 2018. Our search identified 6,735 studies; 30 met eligibility requirements. ART uptake ranges from 0 to 100% and adherence ranges from 50-90%, depending on measurement methods. Uptake and adherence influencing factors are mapped onto a social ecological model (SEM). Knowledge and beliefs, substance use, food insecurity and sex-work engagement were negatively associated, while older age, relationships and social support were positively associated with ART uptake and adherence. Standardised methods to measure uptake and adherence prevalence must be established for data comparison. Evidence regarding ART uptake and adherence barriers and facilitators span multiple SEM levels, although more research is needed regarding structural and occupational level influencers. Results suggest that the multi-level ART uptake and adherence barriers faced by FSW require complex multi-level evidence-based interventions. Study findings can inform ART interventions, future research, and offer guidance to other support services with FSW, such as PrEP interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. GLICK
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA,Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Rienna G. RUSSO
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Aimee Kao-Hsuan HUANG
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Belinda JIVAPONG
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | | | - Lori M. ROSMAN
- Welch Medical Library, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Danielle L PELAEZ
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Susan G. SHERMAN
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
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Petrakis I, Springer SA, Davis C, Ralevski E, Gu L, Lew R, Hermos J, Nuite M, Gordon AJ, Kosten TR, Nunes EV, Rosenheck R, Saxon AJ, Swift R, Goldberg A, Ringer R, Ferguson R. Rationale, design and methods of VA-BRAVE: a randomized comparative effectiveness trial of two formulations of buprenorphine for treatment of opioid use disorder in veterans. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2022; 17:6. [PMID: 35101115 PMCID: PMC8802273 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-022-00286-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To address the US opioid epidemic, there is an urgent clinical need to provide persons with opioid use disorder (OUD) with effective medication treatments for OUD (MOUD). Formulations of sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone (SL-BUP/NLX) are considered the standard of care for OUD including within the Veterans Healthcare Administration (VHA). However, poor retention on MOUD undermines its effectiveness. Long-acting injectable monthly buprenorphine (INJ-BUP) (e.g., Sublocade®) has the potential to improve retention and therefore reduce opioid use and overdose. Designing and conducting studies for OUD pose unique challenges. The strategies and solutions to some of these considerations in designing Cooperative Studies Program (CSP) 2014, Buprenorphine for Treating Opioid Use Disorder in Veterans (VA-BRAVE), a randomized, 20-site, clinical effectiveness trial comparing INJ-BUP to SL-BUP/NLX conducted within the VHA may provide valuable guidance for others confronted with similar investigation challenges. Methods This 52-week, parallel group, open-label, randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluates the comparative effectiveness of two current FDA-approved formulations of buprenorphine: (1) daily SL-BUP/NLX vs. (2) monthly (28-day) INJ-BUP for Veterans with moderate to severe OUD (n = 952). The primary outcomes are (1) retention in MOUD and (2) opioid abstinence. Secondary outcomes include measures of other drug use, psychiatric symptoms, medical outcomes including prevalence rates of HIV, hepatitis B and C as well as social outcomes (housing instability, criminal justice involvement), service utilization and cost-effectiveness. Special considerations in conducting a comparative effectiveness trial with this population and during COVID-19 pandemic were also included. Discussion The evaluation of the extended-release formulation of buprenorphine compared to the standard sublingual formulation in real-world VHA settings is of paramount importance in addressing the opioid epidemic. The extent to which this new treatment facilitates retention, decreases opioid use, and prevents severe sequelae of OUD has not been studied in any long-term trial to date. Positive findings in this trial could lead to widespread adoption of MOUD, and, if proven superior INJ-BUP, by clinicians throughout the VHA and beyond. This treatment has the potential to reduce opioid use among Veterans, improve medical, psychological, and social outcomes, and save lives at justifiable cost. Trial registration Registered at Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04375033
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismene Petrakis
- Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Sandra A Springer
- Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Cynthia Davis
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, Cooperative Studies Program Coordinating Center (CSPCC), Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Ralevski
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lucy Gu
- Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robert Lew
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plain, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John Hermos
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plain, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Adam J Gordon
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement, and Analytic Sciences (IDEAS) Center, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Program for Addiction Research, Clinical Care, Knowledge and Advocacy (PARCKA), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Thomas R Kosten
- Department of Psychiatry, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Edward V Nunes
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert Rosenheck
- Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Andrew J Saxon
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction Treatment and Education, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Robert Swift
- Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, RI, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Alexa Goldberg
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, Cooperative Studies Program Clinical Research Pharmacy Coordinating Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Robert Ringer
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, Cooperative Studies Program Clinical Research Pharmacy Coordinating Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Ryan Ferguson
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, Cooperative Studies Program Coordinating Center (CSPCC), Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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5
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Lloyd AR, Savage R, Eaton EF. Opioid use disorder: a neglected human immunodeficiency virus risk in American adolescents. AIDS 2021; 35:2237-2247. [PMID: 34387219 PMCID: PMC8563394 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In 2017 alone, 783 000 children aged 12-17 years misused opioids with 14 000 using heroin. Opioid misuse and opioid use disorder (OUD) in adolescents and young adults are significant barriers to ending the HIV epidemic. To address these synergistic scourges requires dedicated practitioners and improved access to life-saving evidence-based treatment. Adolescents and young adults make up over one in five new HIV diagnoses even though they are less likely to be tested or know they are infected. Adolescents and young adults living with HIV are less likely to be retained in care or achieve virological suppression. OUD further leads to increased rates of risky behaviours (like sex without condoms), deceased retention in HIV care and decreased rates of viral suppression in this vulnerable population. Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are recommended for adolescents and young adults with severe OUD and help retain youth in HIV treatment and decrease risk of death. However, due to stigma and lack of experience prescribing MOUD in adolescents, MOUD is often perceived as a last line option. MOUD remains difficult to access for adolescents with a shortage of providers and decreased options for treatment as compared to adults. Addiction treatment is infection prevention, and integrated addiction and HIV services are recommended to improve health outcomes. A multipronged approach including patient education, provider training and policy changes to improve access to treatment and harm reduction are urgently needed confront the drug use epidemic in youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey R Lloyd
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Rebekah Savage
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Ellen F Eaton
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabamas, USA
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6
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Biondi BE, Mohanty S, Wyk BV, Montgomery RR, Shaw AC, Springer SA. Design and implementation of a prospective cohort study of persons living with and without HIV infection who are initiating medication treatment for opioid use disorder. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2021; 21:100704. [PMID: 33490708 PMCID: PMC7807244 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2021.100704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Opioid use disorder (OUD) negatively impacts the HIV continuum of care for persons living with HIV. Medication treatment for OUD (MOUD) may have differential biological effects in individuals with HIV and OUD. To address the question of modulation of immune responses by MOUDs, we describe state of the art systems biology approaches to carry out the first prospective, longitudinal study of persons with and without HIV infection with OUD initiating MOUD. Methods A prospective cohort study of persons with DSM-5 diagnosed OUD who are living with and without HIV infection and initiating treatment with methadone or buprenorphine is underway to assess biological effects of these medications on immunobiological outcomes. Results We describe the recruitment, laboratory, and statistical methods of this study as well as the protocol details. Of those screened for enrollment into the study, 468 (36%) were eligible and 135 were enrolled thus far. Retention through month 6 has been high at 80%. Conclusions This study will use state of the art systems biology approaches to carry out the first prospective, longitudinal studies of persons living with and without HIV with DSM-5 OUD initiating treatment with MOUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanne E Biondi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Subhasis Mohanty
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Brent Vander Wyk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ruth R Montgomery
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Albert C Shaw
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 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, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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Glick JL, Russo R, Jivapong B, Rosman L, Pelaez D, Footer KHA, Sherman SG. The PrEP Care Continuum Among Cisgender Women Who Sell Sex and/or Use Drugs Globally: A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1312-1333. [PMID: 31807973 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02733-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
HIV prevalence among cisgender female sex workers (FSW) and/or women who use drugs (WWUD) is substantially higher compared to similarly aged women. Consistent with PRISMA guidelines, we conducted the first systematic review on the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) continuum among FSW and/or WWUD, searching PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Sociological Abstracts. Eligibility criteria included: reporting a PrEP related result among FSW and/or WWUD aged 18 + ; peer-reviewed; and published in English between 2012 and 2018. Our search identified 1365 studies; 26 met eligibility requirements, across the following groups: FSW (n = 14), WWUD (n = 9) and FSW-WWUD (n = 3). Studies report on at least one PrEP outcome: awareness (n = 12), acceptability (n = 16), uptake (n = 4), and adherence (n = 8). Specific barriers span individual and structural levels and include challenges to daily adherence, cost, and stigma. Combining health services and long-acting PrEP formulas may facilitate better PrEP uptake and adherence. The limited number of studies indicates a need for more research.
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Tran BX, Nguyen LH, Tran TT, Latkin CA. Social and structural barriers for adherence to methadone maintenance treatment among Vietnamese opioid dependence patients. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190941. [PMID: 29346444 PMCID: PMC5773191 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) services may reduce the risk of HIV transmission if patients completely adhere to the treatment. Identifying adherence patterns and potential related factors is vital for the sustainability of MMT program in Vietnam. This study examined social and structural factors associated with adherence to MMT among patients in different service delivery models. Materials and methods A total of 510 patients at three MMT clinics in Hanoi were interviewed. Measures of self-reported adherence included the number of missed doses in the past 7 days and the level of adherence in the past 30 days using a visual analog scale (VAS) scoring from 0 (non-adherence) to 100 (perfect adherence). Multivariate regressions were employed to identify factors associated with non-adherence to MMT. Results A total of 17.7% of participants reported incomplete MMT adherence in the last 30 days and 8.3% reported missing a dose in the last seven days, respectively. Living with HIV/AIDS, poor self-care and usual activities, and disclosure of health issues to spouses or intimate partners were associated with non-adherence. Those patients with pain or depression were more likely to report better adherence. Disclosing health status to spouse/partner increased the risk of incomplete adherence, while disclosing to friends reduced the number of missed dose in the last seven days. Patients attending clinics with comprehensive services had a lower VAS score of adherence compared to those enrolling in clinics with only MMT and general health care. Conclusions Sustaining the compliance of patients to MMT is principal in the rapid expansion of this service in Vietnam. It is necessary to address the complexity of health care demands of drug users, their difficulties to be rehabilitated into workforce and society, and the stigmatization to maximize the outcomes of MMT program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tung Thanh Tran
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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9
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Lee SS, Newman R. Methadone maintenance-lessons from two systems in China. Harm Reduct J 2017; 14:66. [PMID: 28946906 PMCID: PMC5613321 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-017-0193-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In Hong Kong, methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) was launched in the 1970s, almost 30 years before the counterpart programme’s inauguration in Mainland China. Both were established in response to perceived public crises—addiction-related crime and HIV outbreak, respectively—and both are now regular services under two systems in the same country. Effectiveness of MMT in achieving the stated goals was evident in each case and provides useful lessons on strategies for dealing with the varied concerns related to illicit drug use. Today, with changing patterns of drug addiction, increasing competition for resources, and changing attitudes towards addiction and its treatment, the two MMT systems are confronted with similar challenges to achieve sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shui-Shan Lee
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2/F Postgraduate Education Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Robert Newman
- Beth Israel Medical Center (President Emeritus), New York, USA
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10
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Olding M, Enns B, Panagiotoglou D, Shoveller J, Harrigan PR, Barrios R, Kerr T, Montaner JSG, Nosyk B. A historical review of HIV prevention and care initiatives in British Columbia, Canada: 1996-2015. J Int AIDS Soc 2017; 20:21941. [PMID: 28953322 PMCID: PMC5640311 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.1.21941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION British Columbia has made significant progress in the treatment and prevention of HIV since 1996, when Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) became available. However, we currently lack a historical summary of HIV prevention and care interventions implemented in the province since the introduction of HAART and how they have shaped the HIV epidemic. Guided by a socio-ecological framework, we present a historical review of biomedical and health services, community and structural interventions implemented in British Columbia from 1996-2015 to prevent HIV transmission or otherwise enhance the cascade of HIV care. METHODS We constructed a historical timeline of HIV interventions implemented in BC between 1996 and 2015 by reviewing publicly available reports, guidelines and other documents from provincial health agencies, community organizations and AIDS service organizations, and by conducting searches of peer-reviewed literature through PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE. We collected further programmatic information by administering a data collection form to representatives from BC's regional health authorities and an umbrella agency representing 45 AIDS Service organizations. Using linked population-level health administrative data, we identified key phases of the HIV epidemic in British Columbia, as characterized by distinct changes in HIV incidence, HAART uptake and the provincial HIV response. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION In total, we identified 175 HIV prevention and care interventions implemented in BC from 1996 to 2015. We identify and describe four phases in BC's response to HIV/AIDS: the early HAART phase (1996-1999); the harm reduction and health service scale-up phase (2000-2005); the early Treatment as Prevention phase (2006-2009); and the STOP HIV/AIDS phase (2010-present). In doing so, we provide an overview of British Columbia's universal and centralized HIV treatment system and detail the role of community-based and provincial stakeholders in advancing innovative prevention and harm reduction approaches, as well as "seek, test, treat and retain" strategies. CONCLUSIONS The review provides valuable insight into British Columbia's HIV response, highlights emerging priorities, and may inform future efforts to evaluate the causal impact of interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Olding
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ben Enns
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Jean Shoveller
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - P Richard Harrigan
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of AIDS, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Rolando Barrios
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of AIDS, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of AIDS, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Julio S. G. Montaner
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of AIDS, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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11
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Willingness to pay for opioid agonist treatment among opioid dependent people who inject drugs in Ukraine. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017. [PMID: 28628853 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the context of decreasing external and limited Ukrainian governmental funding for opioid agonist treatments (OAT) for opioid dependent people who inject drugs in Ukraine, information on sustainable financial models is needed. METHODS Data on 855 opioid dependent people who inject drugs (PWID) were drawn from a cross-sectional nationwide survey of 1613 PWID. They comprised 434 participants who were receiving OAT and 421 who were on OAT in the past or have never been on OAT and were interested in receiving the treatment. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with willingness-to-pay (WTP) for OAT, stratified by OAT experience. Variation in the price which respondents were willing to pay for OAT and its effect on their monthly income among PWID with different OAT experience were assessed as a continuous variable using one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS Overall, 378 (44%) expressed WTP for OAT. Factors independently associated with WTP differed by OAT experience. Among those using OAT, independent predictors of WTP included: city (Dnipro - aOR=1.9; 95%CI=1.1-4.8 and Lviv - (aOR=2.2; 95%CI=1.1-4.8) compared to those elsewhere in Ukraine), higher income (aOR=1.8; 95%CI=1.2-2.7) and receiving psychosocial counseling (aOR=1.8; 95%CI=1.2-2.7). Among those who had previously been on OAT, positive attitude towards OAT (aOR=1.3; 95%CI=1.1-1.6) and family support of OAT (aOR=2.5; 95%CI=1.1-5.7) were independently associated with WTP. Among PWID who had never been on OAT, being male (aOR=2.2; 95%CI=1.1-4.2), younger age (aOR=1.9; 95%CI=1.2-3.2), higher income (aOR=2.0; 95%CI=1.2-3.4) and previous unsuccessful attempts to enter OAT (aOR=2.3; 95%CI=1.1-4.7) were independently associated with WTP. PWID were willing to commit a large percentage of their monthly income for OAT, which, however, varied significantly based on OAT experience: current OAT: 37% of monthly income, previous OAT: 53%, and never OAT: 60% (p-value=0.0009). CONCLUSIONS WTP for OAT was substantial among PWID in Ukraine, supporting the implementation of self-pay or co-payment programs. Such strategies, however, must remain affordable, provide better access to OAT, and consider specific needs of PWID.
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Nguyen LH, Nguyen HTT, Nguyen HLT, Tran BX, Latkin CA. Adherence to methadone maintenance treatment and associated factors among patients in Vietnamese mountainside areas. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PREVENTION AND POLICY 2017; 12:31. [PMID: 28595642 PMCID: PMC5465686 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-017-0115-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication adherence is essential to achieve successful methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). However, treatment adherence among MMT patients in the mountainous setting in Vietnam has not been yet investigated. This study aimed to explore the medication adherence and associated factors in MMT patients in Tuyen Quang, a mountainous province. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two MMT clinics namely Tuyen Quang and Son Duong. Convenience sampling method was used to recruit patients. Adherence to MMT was assessed by using three questions: 1) number of days that they missed doses in the last 4 days; 2) whether they missed doses during the last weekend and 3) when they missed a dose within the last 3 months. Adherence was considered optimal if patients reported 'no' to three questions. Socioeconomic status, health status (measured by EuroQol-5 Dimensions - 5 Levels - EQ5D5L and Visual analogue scale - VAS), substance use and abuse and methods to support adherence were also collected. RESULTS Among 241 patients, 34.4% reported optimal adherence. Self-help was the most popular (89.2%) method used to support adherence. Risk factors of missing doses and suboptimal adherence included higher education and economic status; being a worker/farmer; longer duration of treatment; and suffering pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression. Protective factors were older age, having problems in usual activities/self-care, higher EQ-VAS and EQ-5D index; and reminded by mobile phone and family members. CONCLUSIONS This study found a high sub-optimal adherence rate among MMT patients in a mountainous setting in Vietnam. Measuring adherence by using several simple items could be used periodically to monitor the treatment adherence in the clinical setting. Family and mobile phone support would have a potential role in supporting patients to adhere treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Hoang Nguyen
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Huong Thu Thi Nguyen
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam.,Thanh Nhan Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl A Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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13
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Van Nguyen H, Nguyen HLT, Mai HT, Le HQ, Tran BX, Hoang CD, Le HT, Nguyen CT, Tran TD, Latkin CA, Vu TMT. Stigmatization among methadone maintenance treatment patients in mountainous areas in northern Vietnam. Harm Reduct J 2017; 14:1. [PMID: 28056990 PMCID: PMC5217586 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-016-0127-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stigma and discrimination may adversely affect the benefits of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) for drug users, especially in disadvantaged settings. This study assessed stigma and discrimination against MMT patients in the mountainous and rural areas in Vietnam and explored their associated factors to inform implementation strategies. Methods We interviewed 241 MMT patients in two clinics: one in Tuyen Quang Province’s inner city and the other in Son Duong District, to assess stigma and discrimination that patients perceived and experienced. Socioeconomic status, health behaviors, health status, and history of drug abuse were examined. Multivariate linear and logistic regression models were used to explore factors associated with stigma and discrimination. Results The majority of respondents reported experiencing stigma and discrimination including blame/judgment (95.1%), shame (95.1%), disclosure (71.4%), and the fear of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission by others (74.1%). Unemployed patients were more likely to experience discrimination (Coef = −1.18, 95% CI = −1.87; −0.89). Those who were taking an antiretroviral were more likely to disclose their health status (Coef = 2.27, 95% CI = 0.6; 3.94). In addition, a higher likelihood of being blamed/judged and shamed was associated with those who suffered from anxiety/depression (Coef = 1.59, 95% CI = 0.24; 2.93 and Coef = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.36; 1.79, respectively). Conclusions MMT patients in these mountainous areas perceived high levels of stigma and discrimination which were associated with mental health disorders, unemployment, and HIV infection. These findings highlighted the importance of reducing drug use and HIV-related stigma against high-risk populations. Besides, psychosocial and familial supports, as well as job referrals, also play crucial roles in terms of promoting quality of life among MMT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung Van Nguyen
- Authority of HIV/AIDS Control, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Hue Thi Mai
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Hai Quan Le
- Tuyen Quang Provincial AIDS Prevention Center, Tuyen Quang, Vietnam
| | - Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Canh Dinh Hoang
- Authority of HIV/AIDS Control, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Huong Thi Le
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Cuong Tat Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Tho Dinh Tran
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Vietnam-Germany Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Carl A Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thuc Minh Thi Vu
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, National Otolaryngology Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
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14
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Linton SL, Cooper HLF, Kelley ME, Karnes CC, Ross Z, Wolfe ME, Chen YT, Friedman SR, Des Jarlais D, Semaan S, Tempalski B, Sionean C, DiNenno E, Wejnert C, Paz-Bailey G. Associations of place characteristics with HIV and HCV risk behaviors among racial/ethnic groups of people who inject drugs in the United States. Ann Epidemiol 2016; 26:619-630.e2. [PMID: 27576908 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Investigate whether characteristics of geographic areas are associated with condomless sex and injection-related risk behavior among racial/ethnic groups of people who inject drugs (PWID) in the United States. METHODS PWID were recruited from 19 metropolitan statistical areas for 2009 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance. Administrative data described ZIP codes, counties, and metropolitan statistical areas where PWID lived. Multilevel models, stratified by racial/ethnic groups, were used to assess relationships of place-based characteristics to condomless sex and injection-related risk behavior (sharing injection equipment). RESULTS Among black PWID, living in the South (vs. Northeast) was associated with injection-related risk behavior (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.21-4.17; P = .011), and living in counties with higher percentages of unaffordable rental housing was associated with condomless sex (AOR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.00-1.04; P = .046). Among white PWID, living in ZIP codes with greater access to drug treatment was negatively associated with condomless sex (AOR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.88-1.00; P = .038). CONCLUSIONS Policies that increase access to affordable housing and drug treatment may make environments more conducive to safe sexual behaviors among black and white PWID. Future research designed to longitudinally explore the association between residence in the south and injection-related risk behavior might identify specific place-based features that sustain patterns of injection-related risk behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabriya L Linton
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA.
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Mary E Kelley
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Conny C Karnes
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Zev Ross
- ZevRoss Spatial Analysis, Ithaca, NY
| | - Mary E Wolfe
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Yen-Tyng Chen
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Samuel R Friedman
- Institute for Infectious Disease Research, National Development and Research Institutes, New York, NY
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- Baron Edmond de Rothschild Chemical Dependency Institute, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, New York, NY
| | - Salaam Semaan
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Barbara Tempalski
- Institute for Infectious Disease Research, National Development and Research Institutes, New York, NY
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15
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Determinants of willingness to enroll in opioid agonist treatment among opioid dependent people who inject drugs in Ukraine. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 165:213-20. [PMID: 27370527 PMCID: PMC5094181 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coverage with opioid agonist treatments (OAT) that include methadone and buprenorphine is low (N=8400, 2.7%) for the 310,000 people who inject drugs (PWID) in Ukraine. In the context of widespread negative attitudes toward OAT in the region, patient-level interventions targeting the barriers and willingness to initiate OAT are urgently needed. METHODS A sample of 1179 PWID with opioid use disorder not currently on OAT from five regions in Ukraine was assessed using multivariable logistic regression for independent factors related to willingness to initiate OAT, stratified by their past OAT experience. RESULTS Overall, 421 (36%) PWID were willing to initiate OAT. Significant adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for covariates associated with the willingness to initiate OAT common for both groups included: higher injection frequency (previously on OAT: aOR=2.7; never on OAT: aOR=1.8), social and family support (previously on OAT: aOR=2.0; never on OAT: aOR=2.0), and positive attitude towards OAT (previously on OAT: aOR=1.3; never on OAT: aOR=1.4). Among participants previously on OAT, significant correlates also included: HIV-negative status (aOR=2.6) and depression (aOR=2.7). Among participants never on OAT, however, living in Kyiv (aOR=4.8) or Lviv (aOR=2.7), previous imprisonment (aOR=1.5), registration at a Narcology service (aOR=1.5) and recent overdose (aOR=2.6) were significantly correlated with willingness to initiate OAT. CONCLUSIONS These findings emphasize the need for developing interventions aimed to eliminate existing negative preconceptions regarding OAT among PWID with opioid use disorder in Ukraine, which should be tailored to meet the needs of specific characteristics of PWID in geographically distinct setting based upon injection frequency, prior incarceration, and psychiatric and HIV status.
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Samo RN, Agha A, Shah SA, Altaf A, Memon A, Blevins M, Qian HZ, Vermund SH. Risk Factors for Loss to Follow-Up among People Who Inject Drugs in a Risk Reduction Program at Karachi, Pakistan. A Case-Cohort Study. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147912. [PMID: 26840414 PMCID: PMC4739707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retention of male people who inject drugs (PWIDs) is a major challenge for harm reduction programs that include sterile needle/syringe exchange in resource-limited settings like Pakistan. We assessed the risk factors for loss to follow-up among male PWIDs enrolled in a risk reduction program in Karachi, Pakistan. METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study among 636 HIV-uninfected male PWIDs enrolled during March-June 2009 in a harm reduction program for the estimation of incidence rate. At 24 months post-enrollment, clients who had dropped out of the program were defined as lost to follow-up and included as cases for case-cohort study. RESULTS The median age of the participants was 29 years (interquartile range: 23-36). Active outreach accounted for 76% (483/636) of cohort recruits. Loss to follow-up at 24 months was 25.5% (162/636). In multivariable logistic regression, younger age (AOR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.92-0.99, p = 0.028), clients from other provinces than Sindh (AOR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.01-2.22, p = 0.046), having no formal education (AOR: 3.44, 95% CI: 2.35-4.90, p<0.001), a history of incarceration (AOR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.14-2.46, p<0.008), and being homeless (AOR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.00-2.19, p<0.049) were associated with loss to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Our cohort retained 74.5% of male PWIDs in Karachi for 24 months. Its loss to follow up rate suggested substantial ongoing programmatic challenges. Programmatic enhancements are needed for the highest risk male PWIDs, i.e., younger men, men not from Sindh Province, men who are poorly educated, formerly incarcerated, and/or homeless.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rab Nawaz Samo
- Polio Eradication Initiative, World Health Organization, Larkana, Pakistan
- * E-mail:
| | - Ajmal Agha
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Arshad Altaf
- Bridge Consultants Foundation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Meridith Blevins
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health & Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Han-Zhu Qian
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health & Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Sten H. Vermund
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health & Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
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17
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Hoang TV, Ha TTT, Hoang TM, Nhu NT, Quoc NC, Tam NTM, Mills S. Impact of a methadone maintenance therapy pilot in Vietnam and its role in a scaled-up response. Harm Reduct J 2015; 12:39. [PMID: 26471235 PMCID: PMC4608299 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-015-0075-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a dual response to the HIV epidemic and the high level of injecting drug use in Vietnam, the Ministry of Health (MOH) initiated a pilot methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) program in Hai Phong and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) in early 2009. The objectives of the pilot were to provide evidence on whether MMT could be successfully implemented in Vietnam and scaled up to other localities. METHODS A prospective study was conducted among 965 opiate drug users admitted to the pilot. Data on demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, substance use behaviors (including heroin use), and blood-borne virus infection (HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C) were collected at treatment initiation and then again at 3-, 6-, 9-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month intervals thereafter. RESULTS Twenty-four months after treatment initiation, heroin use as measured by urine test or self-report had reduced from 100 % of participants at both sites to 14.6 % in Hai Phong and 22.9 % in HCMC. When adjusted for multiple factors in Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) logistic regression modeling, independent predictors of continued heroin use after 24 months of MMT in HCMC were the following: poor methadone adherence (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.7, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.8-7.8); currently on antiretroviral treatment (ART) (AOR = 1.8, 95 % CI 1.4-2.4); currently on TB treatment (AOR = 2.2, 95 % CI 1.4-3.4); currently experiencing family conflict (AOR = 1.6, 95 % CI 1.1-2.4); and currently employed (AOR = 0.8, 95 % CI 0.6-1.0). For Hai Phong participants, predictors were the following: currently on ART (AOR = 2.0, 95 % CI = 1.4-3.0); currently experiencing family conflict (AOR = 2.0, 95 % CI = 1.0-3.9); and moderate adherence to methadone (AOR = 2.1, 95 % CI = 1.2-1.9). In Hai Phong, the percentage of participants who were employed had also increased by end of study from 35.0 to 52.8 %, while in HCMC the level remained relatively unchanged, between 52.2 and 55.1 %. DISCUSSION Study findings were used in multiple fora to convince policymakers and the public on the significant and vital role MMT can play in reducing heroin use and improving quality of life for individuals and families. Four years after this study was completed, Vietnam had expanded MMT to 162 clinics in 44 provinces serving 32,000 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tran Vu Hoang
- Partners in Health Research, 47 Yen Phu Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Tran Thi Thanh Ha
- FHI 360, 7th floor, Hanoi Tourist Building, 8 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Tran Minh Hoang
- Hanoi Medical University, No. 1, Ton That Tung Street, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Nguyen To Nhu
- FHI 360, 7th floor, Hanoi Tourist Building, 8 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Nguyen Cuong Quoc
- FHI 360, 7th floor, Hanoi Tourist Building, 8 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Nguyen thi Minh Tam
- Vietnam Administration for AIDS Control, Vietnam Ministry of Health, 5th floor, 138a Giang Vo Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Stephen Mills
- FHI 360, 19th Floor, Sindhorn Building, Wittayu Road, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Joseph B, Kerr T, Puskas CM, Montaner J, Wood E, Milloy MJ. Factors linked to transitions in adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-infected illicit drug users in a Canadian setting. AIDS Care 2015; 27:1128-36. [PMID: 25915438 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2015.1032205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
HIV-positive people who use illicit drugs typically achieve lower levels of adherence to antiretroviral therapy and experience higher rates of sub-optimal HIV/AIDS treatment outcomes. Given the dearth of longitudinal research into ART adherence dynamics, we sought to identify factors associated with transitioning into and out of optimal adherence to ART in a longitudinal study of HIV-infected people who use illicit drugs (PWUD) in a setting of universal no-cost HIV/AIDS treatment. Using data from a prospective cohort of community-recruited HIV-positive illicit drug users confidentially linked to comprehensive HIV/AIDS treatment records, we estimated longitudinal factors associated with losing or gaining ≥95% adherence in the previous six months using two generalized linear mixed-effects models. Among 703 HIV-infected ART-exposed PWUD, becoming non-adherent was associated with periods of homelessness (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.52, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.56-4.07), active injection drug use (AOR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.01-1.56) and incarceration (AOR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.10-2.17). Periods of sex work (AOR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.34-0.75) and injection drug use (AOR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.50-0.77) were barriers to becoming optimally adherent. Methadone maintenance therapy was associated with becoming optimally adherent (AOR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.50-2.33) and was protective against becoming non-adherent (AOR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.41-0.65). In conclusion, we identified several behavioural, social and structural factors that shape adherence patterns among PWUD. Our findings highlight the need to consider these contextual factors in interventions that support the effective delivery of ART to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenden Joseph
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,b Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Cathy M Puskas
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,c Faculty of Health Sciences , Simon Fraser University , Burnaby , Canada
| | - Julio Montaner
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,b Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,b Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,b Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , BC , Canada
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Lin CK, Hung CC, Peng CY, Chao E, Lee TSH. Factors associated with methadone treatment duration: a Cox regression analysis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0123687. [PMID: 25875531 PMCID: PMC4397075 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0123687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined retention rates and associated predictors of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) duration among 128 newly admitted patients in Taiwan. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain demographic and drug use history. Daily records of methadone taken and test results for HIV, HCV, and morphine toxicology were taken from a computerized medical registry. Cox regression analyses were performed to examine factors associated with MMT duration. MMT retention rates were 80.5%, 68.8%, 53.9%, and 41.4% for 3, 6, 12, and 18 months, respectively. Excluding 38 patients incarcerated during the study period, retention rates were 81.1%, 73.3%, 61.1%, and 48.9% for 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months, respectively. No participant seroconverted to HIV and 1 died during the 18-months follow-up. Results showed that being female, imprisonment, a longer distance from house to clinic, having a lower methadone dose after 30 days, being HCV positive, and in the New Taipei city program predicted early patient dropout. The findings suggest favorable MMT outcomes of HIV seroincidence and mortality. Results indicate that the need to minimize travel distance and to provide programs that meet women's requirements justify expansion of MMT clinics in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Kuang Lin
- Education Center for Humanities and Social Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chun Hung
- Department of Psychiatry, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Yi Peng
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - En Chao
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tony Szu-Hsien Lee
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
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HIV risk reduction with buprenorphine-naloxone or methadone: findings from a randomized trial. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2014; 66:288-93. [PMID: 24751432 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Compare HIV injecting and sex risk in patients being treated with methadone (MET) or buprenorphine-naloxone (BUP). METHODS Secondary analysis from a study of liver enzyme changes in patients randomized to MET or BUP who completed 24 weeks of treatment and had 4 or more blood draws. The initial 1:1 randomization was changed to 2:1 (BUP:MET) after 18 months due to higher dropout in BUP. The Risk Behavior Survey measured HIV risk before 30 days at baseline and weeks 12 and 24. RESULTS Among 529 patients randomized to MET, 391 (74%) were completers; among 740 randomized to BUP, 340 (46%) were completers; 700 completed the Risk Behavior Survey. There were significant reductions in injecting risk (P < 0.0008) with no differences between groups in mean number of times reported injecting heroin, speedball, other opiates, and number of injections; or percent who shared needles; did not clean shared needles with bleach; shared cookers; or engaged in front/back loading of syringes. The percent having multiple sex partners decreased equally in both groups (P < 0.03). For males on BUP, the sex risk composite increased; for males on MET, the sex risk decreased resulting in significant group differences over time (P < 0.03). For females, there was a significant reduction in sex risk (P < 0.02) with no group differences. CONCLUSIONS Among MET and BUP patients who remained in treatment, HIV injecting risk was equally and markedly reduced; however, MET retained more patients. Sex risk was equally and significantly reduced among females in both treatment conditions, but it increased for males on BUP and decreased for males on MET.
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Cao X, Wu Z, Rou K, Li L, Lin C, Wang C, Luo W, Pang L, Yin W, Li J. Retention and its predictors among methadone maintenance treatment clients in China: a six-year cohort study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2014; 145:87-93. [PMID: 25448082 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.09.776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate factors associated with retention among the first cohort of drug users attending methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) clinics in China. METHODS A six-year cohort of 1511 drug users was enrolled in the first 8 MMT clinics in China in 2004 and followed between March, 2004 and December, 2010. Six-year retention rates were calculated and compared by methadone dosage, clinic location, and length of follow-up. Factors associated with retention were evaluated using Cox proportional hazard regression models. RESULTS The overall retention rate over 6-year was 35.7%. Highest drop-out occurred within the first 12 months of treatment. The retention rates for the 6-year by low (≤ 30 mg/day), medium (31-60 mg/day), and high (>60 mg/day) methadone dosage groups were 20.8%, 34.8% and 53.2%, respectively (p < 0.001). The highest 6-year retention rate among eight clinics was 43.8%, while the lowest one was 17.7% (p < 0.001). The results from Cox proportional hazard models indicate that clients having >30 mg daily methadone dosage (p < 0.001), having relatives receiving MMT (p = 0.027), and having >10% urine morphine positive result (p < 0.001) were more likely to be retained in MMT over the six-year period. It has also found that drug injection (p = 0.005) and needle sharing (p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with better retention. CONCLUSIONS Health workers should adjust individuals' methadone dosages as a method to prevent early treatment termination. Further studies are needed to explore the impact of severity of opiate addiction on long-term retention of MMT clients. Careful assessment of drug users upon MMT enrollment may be helpful for providing additional care to clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobin Cao
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Zunyou Wu
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China.
| | - Keming Rou
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Li Li
- Semel Institute Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chunqing Lin
- Semel Institute Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Changhe Wang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Luo
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Pang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Wenyuan Yin
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Yunnan Institute of Drug Abuse, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Zhou K, Zhuang G. Retention in methadone maintenance treatment in mainland China, 2004-2012: a literature review. Addict Behav 2014; 39:22-9. [PMID: 24090627 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2013.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) was implemented in mainland China since 2004. Numerous individual studies have investigated MMT retention but the overview still remains unclear. The aim of the study was to review MMT retention rates and predicting factors in mainland China during 2004-2012. METHODS Chinese and English databases of literature were searched for studies reporting on retention rates and predicting factors in non-transfer MMT patients of fixed-site clinics in mainland China (2004-2012). Qualitative methods were used to synthesize the results. RESULTS Nineteen studies were eligible for review, with sample size ranging from 29 to 3758. Retention rates varied between 30.0% at 6 months in Shanghai and 70.3% at 12 months in Xi'an. Predicting factors were non-treatment including sociodemographics (n=14), support system and social function (n=9), economic status (n=2) and psychological status (n=1), and treatment-related including drug use (n=15), methadone use (n=12), MMT clinics (n=9), MMT participation (n=7), awareness on MMT (n=5) and HIV serostatus (n=3). Methadone dose (n=12) and age (n=7) were the first two important specific factors. CONCLUSIONS In mainland China, MMT retention rates are heterogeneous and relatively lower, and predicting factors mainly focus on objective aspects. Future work should further explore subjective predicting factors regarding MMT retention.
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Abstract
HIV-infected persons entering the criminal justice system (CJS) often experience suboptimal healthcare system engagement and social instability, including homelessness. We evaluated surveys from a multisite study of 743 HIV-infected jail detainees prescribed or eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) to understand correlates of healthcare engagement prior to incarceration, focusing on differences by housing status. Dependent variables of healthcare engagement were: (1) having an HIV provider, (2) taking ART, and (3) being adherent (≥95% of prescribed doses) to ART during the week before incarceration. Homeless subjects, compared to their housed counterparts, were significantly less likely to be engaged in healthcare using any measure. Despite Ryan White funding availability, insurance coverage remains insufficient among those entering jails, and having health insurance was the most significant factor correlated with having an HIV provider and taking ART. Individuals interfacing with the CJS, especially those unstably housed, need innovative interventions to facilitate healthcare access and retention.
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Gowing L, Farrell MF, Bornemann R, Sullivan LE, Ali R. Oral substitution treatment of injecting opioid users for prevention of HIV infection. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2011:CD004145. [PMID: 21833948 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd004145.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injecting drug users are vulnerable to infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and other blood borne viruses as a result of collective use of injecting equipment as well as sexual behaviour OBJECTIVES To assess the effect of oral substitution treatment for opioid dependent injecting drug users on risk behaviours and rates of HIV infections SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO to May 2011. We also searched reference lists of articles, reviews and conference abstracts SELECTION CRITERIA Studies were required to consider the incidence of risk behaviours, or the incidence of HIV infection related to substitution treatment of opioid dependence. All types of original studies were considered. Two authors independently assessed each study for inclusion DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently extracted key information from each of the included studies. Any differences were resolved by discussion or by referral to a third author. MAIN RESULTS Thirty-eight studies, involving some 12,400 participants, were included. The majority were descriptive studies, or randomisation processes did not relate to the data extracted, and most studies were judged to be at high risk of bias. Studies consistently show that oral substitution treatment for opioid-dependent injecting drug users with methadone or buprenorphine is associated with statistically significant reductions in illicit opioid use, injecting use and sharing of injecting equipment. It is also associated with reductions in the proportion of injecting drug users reporting multiple sex partners or exchanges of sex for drugs or money, but has little effect on condom use. It appears that the reductions in risk behaviours related to drug use do translate into reductions in cases of HIV infection. However, because of the high risk of bias and variability in several aspects of the studies, combined totals were not calculated. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Oral substitution treatment for injecting opioid users reduces drug-related behaviours with a high risk of HIV transmission, but has less effect on sex-related risk behaviours. The lack of data from randomised controlled studies limits the strength of the evidence presented in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Gowing
- Discipline of Pharmacology, University of Adelaide, Frome Road, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia, 5005
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25
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Zhao L, Holzemer WL, Johnson M, Tulsky JP, Rose CD. HIV infection as a predictor of methadone maintenance outcomes in Chinese injection drug users. AIDS Care 2011; 24:195-203. [PMID: 21780984 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2011.596520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This paper's design is descriptive and correlational based on retrospective self-report survey data collected in Kunming city, China. The study investigated the difference between a group of Chinese HIV positive (N=36) and negative (N=131) opioid dependent adults maintained on methadone treatment. Comparisons were based on their quality of life (QOL), methadone treatment adherence, adverse symptom occurrence related to methadone treatment, and HIV-related behavior changes. No significant differences were found between the two groups in age, methadone maintenance dose, methadone adherence, sex desire, and drug craving level. Participants who were HIV positive reported significantly lower scores on physical health and total health-related qualify of life. They also reported greater engagement in injection related risk behavior before methadone treatment than those who tested HIV negative. For both groups, sexual and injection risk behavior significantly decreased following initiation of methadone treatment. A regression model revealed that those infected with HIV, associated significantly with higher likelihood of reporting constipation and lack of appetite, and higher frequency of reporting abdominal pain and nausea than HIV negative patients. The primary implication of these findings is that HIV positive persons in methadone treatment may require more focused services to meet their special HIV care and substance treatment needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhao
- Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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26
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Chen NE, Meyer JP, Springer SA. Advances in the prevention of heterosexual transmission of HIV/AIDS among women in the United States. Infect Dis Rep 2011; 3. [PMID: 23745166 PMCID: PMC3671603 DOI: 10.4081/idr.2011.e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in testing and treatment, the incidence of HIV/AIDS in the United States has remained stagnant with an estimated 56,300 new infections every year. Women account for an increasing proportion of the epidemic. The vulnerability of women to HIV stems from both increased biologic susceptibility to heterosexual transmission and also the social, economic, and structural disadvantages they often confront. This review describes the main reasons for the increased vulnerability of U.S. women to HIV transmission with particular emphasis on specific highrisk groups including: non-Hispanic blacks, women who use drugs, women with a history of incarceration, and victims of intimate partner violence. Although behavioral approaches to HIV prevention may be effective, pragmatic implementation is often difficult, especially for women who lack sociocultural capital to negotiate condoms with their male partners. Recent advances in HIV prevention show promise in terms of female-initiated interventions. These notably include female condoms, non-specific vaginal microbicides, and antiretroviral oral and vaginal pre-exposure prophylaxis. In this review, we will present evidence in support of these new female-initiated interventions while also emphasizing the importance of advocacy and the political support for these scientific advances to be successful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine E Chen
- Yale AIDS Program, Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
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27
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Abstract
Research conducted during the first 20 years of the AIDS epidemic provided a solid foundation of data supporting methadone treatment as HIV prevention. Drug users in methadone treatment were consistently found to reduce the frequency of drug use, risk behaviors, and infections. These data have been consistent over time and across cultural settings and have been used to promote the expansion of drug treatment as a prevention intervention. More recently, data have emerged suggesting the prevention potential of medication-assisted treatments other than methadone (buprenorphine/naloxone and naltrexone). Still, with a few notable exceptions, global drug treatment coverage for opiate injectors remains remarkably low and only a few treatment interventions for stimulant use have shown efficacy in reducing HIV risk. Importantly, more recent data provide support for the role of drug treatment programs in improving access and adherence to antiretroviral treatment and that injection drug users in substance abuse treatment are more likely to achieve sustained viral suppression. While important challenges remain in maximizing its impact, the scientific literature provides strong evidence of the efficacy of drug treatment as an HIV prevention strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Metzger
- HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Division, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Anand P, Springer SA, Copenhaver MM, Altice FL. Neurocognitive impairment and HIV risk factors: a reciprocal relationship. AIDS Behav 2010; 14:1213-26. [PMID: 20232242 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-010-9684-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment among populations at risk for HIV poses a significant barrier to managing risk behaviors. The impact of HIV and several cofactors, including substance abuse and mental illness, on cognitive function is discussed in the context of HIV risk behaviors, medication adherence, and risk-reduction interventions. Literature suggests that cognitive impairment is intertwined in a close, reciprocal relationship with both risk behaviors and medication adherence. Not only do increased risk behaviors and suboptimal adherence exacerbate cognitive impairment, but cognitive impairment also reduces the effectiveness of interventions aimed at optimizing medication adherence and reducing risk. In order to be effective, risk-reduction interventions must therefore take into account the impact of cognitive impairment on learning and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pria Anand
- Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510-2283, USA
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29
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Jiao M, Greanya ED, Haque M, Yoshida EM, Soos JG. Methadone maintenance therapy in liver transplantation. Prog Transplant 2010. [PMID: 20929104 DOI: 10.7182/prtr.20.3.r8n4k17212158k62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis due to chronic infection with hepatitis C virus remains by far the most common reason for liver transplantation in North America. Currently, parenteral use of street drugs is the most common means of acquiring hepatitis C. Methadone maintenance therapy is an accepted form of treatment for chronic opiate (eg, heroin) addiction and, not surprisingly, a significant proportion of methadone-treated patients have chronic hepatitis C. The feasibility of liver transplant candidacy in hepatitis patients who require methadone maintenance therapy is controversial, and some transplant centers require patients to withdraw from such therapy in order for the transplant process to move forward. Thus stable patients with end-stage cirrhosis who are receiving methadone maintenance are left in a most difficult situation: discontinue methadone and accept the side effects of withdrawal with the risk of recidivism to use of street opiates, an absolute contraindication for transplantation, or continue methadone therapy and risk exclusion from the transplant process. The issue of methadone replacement therapy in end-stage cirrhosis and the posttransplant literature on the subject are explored in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Modi Jiao
- University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario
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30
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Abstract
Drug use continues to be a major factor fueling the global epidemic of HIV infection. This article reviews the current literature on the ability of drug treatment programs to reduce HIV transmission among injection and noninjection drug users. Most data come from research on the treatment of opiate dependence and provide strong evidence on the effectiveness of medication-assisted treatment for reducing the frequency of drug use, risk behaviors, and HIV infections. This has been a consistent finding since the epidemic began among diverse populations and cultural settings. Use of medications other than methadone (such as buprenorphine/naloxone and naltrexone) has increased in recent years with promising data on their effectiveness as HIV prevention and as new treatment options for communities heavily affected by opiate use and HIV infection. However, few treatment interventions for stimulant abuse and dependence have shown efficacy in reducing HIV risk. The cumulative literature provides strong support of drug treatment programs for improving access and adherence to antiretroviral treatment. Drug users in substance abuse treatment are significantly more likely to achieve sustained viral suppression, making viral transmission less likely. Although there are challenges to implementing drug treatment programs for maximum impact, the scientific literature leaves no doubt about the effectiveness of drug treatment as an HIV prevention strategy.
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31
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Jiao M, Greanya ED, Haque M, Yoshida EM, Soos JG. Methadone Maintenance Therapy in Liver Transplantation. Prog Transplant 2010; 20:209-14; quiz 215. [DOI: 10.1177/152692481002000303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis due to chronic infection with hepatitis C virus remains by far the most common reason for liver transplantation in North America. Currently, parenteral use of street drugs is the most common means of acquiring hepatitis C. Methadone maintenance therapy is an accepted form of treatment for chronic opiate (eg, heroin) addiction and, not surprisingly, a significant proportion of methadone-treated patients have chronic hepatitis C. The feasibility of liver transplant candidacy in hepatitis patients who require methadone maintenance therapy is controversial, and some transplant centers require patients to withdraw from such therapy in order for the transplant process to move forward. Thus stable patients with end-stage cirrhosis who are receiving methadone maintenance are left in a most difficult situation: discontinue methadone and accept the side effects of withdrawal with the risk of recidivism to use of street opiates, an absolute contraindication for transplantation, or continue methadone therapy and risk exclusion from the transplant process. The issue of methadone replacement therapy in end-stage cirrhosis and the posttransplant literature on the subject are explored in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Modi Jiao
- University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario (MJ), Vancouver General Hospital (EDG, JGS), University of British Columbia (MH, EMY), British Columbia Transplant (MJ, EDG, MH, EMY, JGS), Vancouver, BC
| | - Erica D. Greanya
- University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario (MJ), Vancouver General Hospital (EDG, JGS), University of British Columbia (MH, EMY), British Columbia Transplant (MJ, EDG, MH, EMY, JGS), Vancouver, BC
| | - Mazhar Haque
- University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario (MJ), Vancouver General Hospital (EDG, JGS), University of British Columbia (MH, EMY), British Columbia Transplant (MJ, EDG, MH, EMY, JGS), Vancouver, BC
| | - Eric M. Yoshida
- University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario (MJ), Vancouver General Hospital (EDG, JGS), University of British Columbia (MH, EMY), British Columbia Transplant (MJ, EDG, MH, EMY, JGS), Vancouver, BC
| | - John G. Soos
- University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario (MJ), Vancouver General Hospital (EDG, JGS), University of British Columbia (MH, EMY), British Columbia Transplant (MJ, EDG, MH, EMY, JGS), Vancouver, BC
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Managing la malilla: Exploring drug treatment experiences among injection drug users in Tijuana, Mexico, and their implications for drug law reform. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2010; 21:459-65. [PMID: 20800464 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2010.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2010] [Revised: 06/25/2010] [Accepted: 06/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In August 2009, Mexico reformed its drug laws and decriminalized small quantities of drugs for personal use; offenders caught three times will be mandated to enter drug treatment. However, little is known about the quality or effectiveness of drug treatment programs in Mexico. We examined injection drug users' (IDUs) experiences in drug treatment in Tijuana, Mexico, with the goal of informing program planning and policy. METHODS We examined qualitative and quantitative data from Proyecto El Cuete, a multi-phased research study on HIV risk among IDUs in Tijuana. Phase I consisted of 20 in-depth interviews and Phase II employed respondent-driven sampling to recruit 222 IDUs for a quantitative survey. We also reviewed national drug policy documents, surveillance data, and media reports to situate drug users' experiences within the broader sociopolitical context. RESULTS Participants in the qualitative study were 50% male with a mean age of 32; most injected heroin (85.0%) and methamphetamine (60.0%). The quantitative sample was 91.4% male with a mean age of 35; 98.2% injected heroin and 83.7% injected heroin and methamphetamine together. The majority of participants reported receiving treatment: residential treatment was most common, followed by methadone; other types of services were infrequently reported. Participants' perceptions of program acceptability and effectiveness were mixed. Mistreatment emerged as a theme in the qualitative interviews and was reported by 21.6% of Phase II participants, primarily physical (72.0%) and verbal (52.0%) abuse. CONCLUSIONS Our results point to the need for political, economic, and social investment in the drug treatment system before offenders are sentenced to treatment under the revised national drug law. Resources are needed to strengthen program quality and ensure accountability. The public health impact of the new legislation that attempts to bring drug treatment to the forefront of national drug policy should be systematically evaluated.
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Degenhardt L, Mathers B, Vickerman P, Rhodes T, Latkin C, Hickman M. Prevention of HIV infection for people who inject drugs: why individual, structural, and combination approaches are needed. Lancet 2010; 376:285-301. [PMID: 20650522 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(10)60742-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 330] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
HIV can spread rapidly between people who inject drugs (through injections and sexual transmission), and potentially the virus can pass to the wider community (by sexual transmission). Here, we summarise evidence on the effectiveness of individual-level approaches to prevention of HIV infection; review global and regional coverage of opioid substitution treatment, needle and syringe programmes, and antiretroviral treatment; model the effect of increased coverage and a combination of these three approaches on HIV transmission and prevalence in injecting drug users; and discuss evidence for structural-level interventions. Each intervention alone will achieve modest reductions in HIV transmission, and prevention of HIV transmission necessitates high-coverage and combined approaches. Social and structural changes are potentially beneficial components in a combined-intervention strategy, especially when scale-up is difficult or reductions in HIV transmission and injection risk are difficult to achieve. Although further evidence is needed on how to optimise combinations of interventions in different settings and epidemics, we know enough now about which actions are effective: the challenge is to deliver these well and to scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Pattanaphesaj J, Teerawattananon Y. Reviewing the evidence on effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of HIV prevention strategies in Thailand. BMC Public Health 2010; 10:401. [PMID: 20604975 PMCID: PMC2912810 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-10-401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2009] [Accepted: 07/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Following universal access to antiretroviral therapy in Thailand, evidence from National AIDS Spending Assessment indicates a decreasing proportion of expenditure on prevention interventions. To prompt policymakers to revitalize HIV prevention, this study identifies a comprehensive list of HIV/AIDs preventive interventions that are likely to be effective and cost-effective in Thailand. Methods A systematic review of the national and international literature on HIV prevention strategies from 1997 to 2008 was undertaken. The outcomes used to consider the effectiveness of HIV prevention interventions were changes in HIV risk behaviour and HIV incidence. Economic evaluations that presented their results in terms of cost per HIV infection averted or cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained were also included. All studies were assessed against quality criteria. Results The findings demonstrated that school based-sex education plus life-skill programs, voluntary and routine HIV counselling and testing, male condoms, street outreach programs, needle and syringe programs, programs for the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission, male circumcision, screening blood products and donated organs for HIV, and increased alcohol tax were all effective in reducing HIV infection among target populations in a cost-effective manner. Conclusion We found very limited local evidence regarding the effectiveness of HIV interventions amongst specific high risk populations. This underlines the urgent need to prioritise health research resources to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of HIV interventions aimed at reducing HIV infection among high risk groups in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juntana Pattanaphesaj
- Health Intervention and Technology Assessment Program, Ministry of Public Health, Tiwanon Road, Muang, Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand.
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35
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Vlahov D, Robertson AM, Strathdee SA. Prevention of HIV infection among injection drug users in resource-limited settings. Clin Infect Dis 2010; 50 Suppl 3:S114-21. [PMID: 20397939 PMCID: PMC3114556 DOI: 10.1086/651482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Injection drug use contributes to considerable global morbidity and mortality associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and AIDS and other infections due to blood-borne pathogens through the direct sharing of needles, syringes, and other injection equipment. Of approximately 16 million injection drug users (IDUs) worldwide, an estimated 3 million are HIV infected. The prevalence of HIV infection among IDUs is high in many countries in Asia and eastern Europe and could exacerbate the HIV epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa. This review summarizes important components of a comprehensive program for prevention of HIV infection in IDUs, including unrestricted legal access to sterile syringes through needle exchange programs and enhanced pharmacy services, treatment for opioid dependence (ie, methadone and buprenorphine treatment), behavioral interventions, and identification and treatment of noninjection drug and alcohol use, which accounts for increased sexual transmission of HIV. Evidence supports the effectiveness of harm-reduction programs over punitive drug-control policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Vlahov
- Center for Urban Epidemiologic Studies, New York Academy of Medicine, New York, New York 10029, USA.
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36
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Higgs P, Yohannes K, Hellard M, Maher L. Factors influencing a self-limiting HIV outbreak among ethnic Vietnamese injecting drug users in Melbourne, Australia. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2009; 19:1690-1701. [PMID: 19949219 DOI: 10.1177/1049732309352470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Successful HIV prevention programs-such as sterile needle and syringe programs-have ensured that incidence and prevalence of HIV among people who inject drugs remains low in Australia. However, between 1999 and 2006, 20 of the 46 injecting-related HIV notifications in Melbourne (Australia's second-largest city) were ethnic Vietnamese heroin users. Through in-depth interviews we explored and documented the coping tactics and strategies of 9 ethnic Vietnamese heroin injectors. We explored their experiences of living with HIV, and in this article identify factors that appear to have contributed to limiting the spread of HIV beyond this cluster of people. The data reveal factors associated with this self-limiting outbreak, including consciously avoiding opioid withdrawal and having closed injecting networks. Early and effective engagement with participants by health care workers also appears to have played an important role in containing the transmission of HIV within this group of ethnic Vietnamese heroin injectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Higgs
- National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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37
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Qian HZ, Hao C, Ruan Y, Cassell HM, Chen K, Qin G, Yin L, Schumacher JE, Liang S, Shao Y. Impact of methadone on drug use and risky sex in China. J Subst Abuse Treat 2008; 34:391-7. [PMID: 17869049 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2007.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2007] [Revised: 06/08/2007] [Accepted: 07/01/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the impact of methadone on drug-using and risky sexual behaviors among 557 heroin injection drug users in one of the first methadone programs in China. Structured questionnaires were administered to collect data on methadone utilization, drug use, and risky sexual behaviors. Blood samples were tested for blood-borne infections. Multivariate logistic analyses revealed that, among opioid-addicted individuals, methadone participants were less likely to use or inject drugs and share needles than nonparticipants. They also were less likely to have multiple sexual partners or have unprotected sex. Those currently enrolled in methadone maintenance had lower risk of using and injecting drugs than those who were no longer receiving methadone. Data suggest positive, short-term impact on these important behaviors, but further studies are needed to examine the long-term impact of methadone treatment on disease rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Zhu Qian
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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Gowing L, Farrell M, Bornemann R, Sullivan L, Ali R. Substitution treatment of injecting opioid users for prevention of HIV infection. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2008:CD004145. [PMID: 18425898 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd004145.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injecting drug users are vulnerable to infection with HIV and other blood borne viruses as a result of collective use of injecting equipment as well as sexual behaviour. OBJECTIVES To assess the effect of oral substitution treatment for opioid dependent injecting drug users on rates of HIV infections, and high risk behaviours. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO to March 2007. We also searched reference lists of articles, reviews and conference abstracts SELECTION CRITERIA Studies were required to consider the incidence of risk behaviours, or the incidence of HIV infection related to substitution treatment of opioid dependence. All types of original studies were considered. Two reviewers independently assessed studies for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS One reviewer extracted data from included studies, assessed quality and confirmed decisions by consulting with all other reviewers. MAIN RESULTS Thirty-three studies, involving 10,400 participants, were included. The majority were not randomised controlled studies and there were problems of confounding and bias. The studies varied in several aspects limiting the extent of quantitative analysis. Studies consistently show that oral substitution treatment for opioid-dependent injecting drug users is associated with statistically significant reductions in illicit opioid use, injecting use and sharing of injecting equipment. It is also associated with reductions in the proportion of injecting drug users reporting multiple sex partners or exchanges of sex for drugs or money, but has little effect on condom use. It appears that the reductions in risk behaviours related to drug use do translate into reductions in cases of HIV infection. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Oral substitution treatment for injecting opioid users reduces drug-related behaviours with a high risk of HIV transmission, but has less effect on sex-related risk behaviours. The lack of data from randomised controlled studies limits the strength of the evidence presented in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Gowing
- University of Adelaide, Department of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology, DASC Evidence-Bsed Practice Unit, Adelaide, Australia, 5005.
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Lee KC, Lim WW, Lee SS. High prevalence of HCV in a cohort of injectors on methadone substitution treatment. J Clin Virol 2008; 41:297-300. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2007.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2007] [Revised: 08/30/2007] [Accepted: 09/20/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Pang TTP, Lee SS. Measuring the geographic coverage of methadone maintenance programme in Hong Kong by using geographic information system (GIS). Int J Health Geogr 2008; 7:5. [PMID: 18234088 PMCID: PMC2268919 DOI: 10.1186/1476-072x-7-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2007] [Accepted: 01/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE While access and utilization form core components in assessing the effectiveness of a health service, the concept of coverage is often neglected. In this study we propose to develop a GIS-based methodological framework for the measurement of district-based geographic coverage to examine the service effectiveness of methadone treatment programme (MTP) in Hong Kong on a regular basis. METHODS To overcome the incompatibility of spatial units, population data and data of heroin addiction of the year 2001 are interpolated by population-weighted and area-weighted algorithms. Standard overlay and proximity analytical functions are used to delineate altogether 20 accessible zones around each methadone clinic at a fixed 1.5 km Euclidean distance. Geographic coverage here is defined as the percentage of heroin addicts covered by a methadone clinic within the accessible zone by district. RESULTS A total of 6413 out of 11000 reported heroin addicts are found geographically covered. The average geographic coverage in Hong Kong is 44.6%, with the figure varying from 0% to 96% by district. One district having no clinic results in 0% coverage whereas another without a clinic yields 15.3% coverage from the clinic in adjacent district. Maps illustrating district-based geographic coverage are generated. CONCLUSION As continuous data collection is required for a monitoring system, the simplified approach facilitates the handling of large volume data and relevant data analysis. It is concluded that the number of methadone clinics is as important as their locations. Geographic coverage could become an important consideration for monitoring harm reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tak Ting P Pang
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
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Lee SS. A humble service that has delivered public health good. Public Health 2007; 121:884-6. [PMID: 17570450 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2007.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2006] [Revised: 01/04/2007] [Accepted: 02/22/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S S Lee
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
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Sullivan LE, Metzger DS, Fudala PJ, Fiellin DA. Decreasing international HIV transmission: the role of expanding access to opioid agonist therapies for injection drug users. Addiction 2005; 100:150-8. [PMID: 15679744 DOI: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2004.00963.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To examine the role of expanded access to opioid agonist treatment as a means to decrease international HIV transmission. DESIGN Review of the English language literature via Medline. MEASUREMENTS Estimates of prevalence rates for injection drug use, HIV infection and treatment effect sizes for changes in opioid use, opioid injection, needle-sharing, injection-related HIV risk behavior and cost. FINDINGS An estimated 12.6 million injection drug users internationally accounted for 10% of the 4.2 million new HIV infections in 2003. Ninety-three of the 136 countries (68%) that report injection drug use identify HIV infection related to this behavior. Observational studies of methadone treatment demonstrate decreases in opioid use, opioid injection, needle-sharing and lower rates of HIV prevalence and incidence. The effectiveness of buprenorphine in demonstrating similar findings is expected, although implementations and research are still emerging. The cost-effectiveness of opioid agonist treatment has been established. The barriers to international adoption of opioid agonist treatment, despite the research evidence and international guidelines, are discussed. CONCLUSIONS Untreated opioid dependence leads to HIV transmission, on an international level. Opioid agonist treatments are associated with reductions in the frequency of opioid use, fewer injections and injection-related HIV risk behaviors and lower rates of HIV prevalence and incidence. Despite international recommendations, treatment for opioid-dependent injection drug users with methadone and buprenorphine is limited. Research, implementation efforts and political strategies to expand access to opioid agonist treatment are needed in order to combat the spread of HIV, especially in the developing world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn E Sullivan
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520-8025, USA.
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Muula AS, Mfutso-Bengo JM. Important but neglected ethical and cultural considerations in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Malawi. Nurs Ethics 2004; 11:479-88. [PMID: 15362357 DOI: 10.1191/0969733004ne726oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Southern African countries have the highest HIV infection rates in the world. In most of the countries in the region, the rate among adults is at least 10%. The fight against HIV/ AIDS has mostly been inadequate owing to the lack of proper consideration of ethical and cultural issues. In this article, the authors discuss the ethical and cultural dilemmas concerning HIV/AIDS, with Malawi as a case in point. It is argued that increasing financial resources alone, as exemplified by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria initiative, without proper attention to ethical issues, morals and appropriate legal obligations, are unlikely to reduce the spread of HIV in southern Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adamson S Muula
- Department of Community Health, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Private Bag 360, Blantyre 3, Malawi.
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Chan MKT, Lee SS. Can the low HIV prevalence in Hong Kong be maintained? AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2004; 16:18-26. [PMID: 15262562 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.16.3.5.18.35533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Hong Kong is an area with low HIV prevalence. Public health services provided through the methadone clinics and public sexually transmitted diseases clinics have contributed to the control of HIV in Hong Kong. Nevertheless, surveillance indicates that HIV infections are increasing, especially in young male Chinese. The seropositivity rate of HIV in injection drug users is also increasing. A significant number of sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis and gonorrhoea, continue to occur. Continuing vigilance is required to prevent an increase in HIV infections.
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Booth RE, Corsi KF, Mikulich-Gilbertson SK. Factors associated with methadone maintenance treatment retention among street-recruited injection drug users. Drug Alcohol Depend 2004; 74:177-85. [PMID: 15099661 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2003.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2003] [Revised: 12/04/2003] [Accepted: 12/05/2003] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study examined factors associated with methadone maintenance retention, defined as remaining in treatment for a minimum of 90 days, among street recruited injection drug users (IDUs). Targeted sampling methods were used to establish recruitment quotas in Denver census tracks. A total of 577 IDUs were randomly assigned to either a risk reduction intervention, focusing on safer injection and sex behaviors, or motivational interviewing, addressing more sweeping lifestyle changes including drug treatment. All subjects who wanted treatment were provided transportation, rapid intake and a waiver of the intake fee. In addition, 50% were randomly assigned a coupon for 90 days of free treatment. Overall, 33% entered treatment and of these, 60% remained for at least 90 days. Factors associated with retention included higher methadone dose, free treatment, greater contacts with the clinic and counselor rating of patient cooperation. Although desire for treatment, or motivation, was associated in univariate analyses with greater retention, there were no differences observed between the motivational interviewing and risk reduction interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E Booth
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, 1741 Vine Street, Denver, CO 80206, USA.
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Lim WL, Xing H, Wong KH, Wong MC, Shao YM, Ng MH, Lee SS. The lack of epidemiological link between the HIV type 1 infections in Hong Kong and Mainland China. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2004; 20:259-62. [PMID: 15117447 DOI: 10.1089/088922204322996473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood samples were collected from 139 newly reported HIV-1 infections in Hong Kong over a 3-year period between 1999 and 2001, representing 22.8% of all reported cases. A majority of the patients were male (85.6%), Chinese (74%), and adult (97.1%) and acquired HIV-1 through sexual transmission (88.2%). The B and CRF01_AE were the major subtypes detected--49.6% and 44.6%, respectively. Over time, the frequency of CRF01_AE subtype increased, the B subtype decreased, and new subtypes of C (4) 2.8%, B' (1) 0.7%, and CRF07_BC (3) 2.2% emerged. The CRF01_AE subtype was commoner in female, Chinese, heterosexuals, and injection drug users whereas B subtype was commoner in male, white, and people with homosexual/bisexual contacts. There was no common source of infection from the analysis except a discernible cluster of Vietnamese injection drug users with the CRF01_AE subtype. The molecular findings did not suggest an epidemiological link between HIV infection in Hong Kong and Mainland China. Hong Kong's longstanding and extensive methadone treatment network may have contributed to the phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- W L Lim
- Department of Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Hong Kong
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