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Safren SA, Lee JS, Andersen LS, Stanton AM, Kagee A, Kirakosian N, O'Cleirigh C, Joska JA. The salience of structural barriers and behavioral health problems to ART adherence in people receiving HIV primary care in South Africa. AIDS Care 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38359349 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2308750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Multilevel factors (individual and structural) influence adherence to antiretroviral therapy, particularly in high HIV prevalence areas such as South Africa. The present study examined the relative importance of structural barriers to HIV care and behavioral health factors, depression and alcohol use, in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, South Africa. People receiving HIV care in six primary care clinics in Khayelitsha (N = 194) completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, the Structural Barriers to Medication Taking questionnaire, and a qualitative rating of past-two-week adherence. Correlations were employed to examine associations among these variables, and hierarchical regression analysis was used to examine the unique effects of structural barriers over and above depression and alcohol use as predictors of adherence. Participants were primarily Black South African (99%) women (83%), and 41 years old on average. All four variables were significantly correlated. The hierarchical regression analysis showed that among behavioral health predictors, alcohol use alone significantly predicted ART adherence (b = -.032, p = .002). When structural barriers was added to the model, it was the only significant unique predictor of ART adherence (b = -1.58, p < .001). Findings highlight the need to consider structural vulnerabilities in HIV care in South Africa when developing behavioral health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A Safren
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Jasper S Lee
- Behavioral Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lena S Andersen
- Global Health Section, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Amelia M Stanton
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ashraf Kagee
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Norik Kirakosian
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Conall O'Cleirigh
- Behavioral Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John A Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Lee JS, Bainter SA, Tsai AC, Andersen LS, Stanton AM, Magidson JF, Kagee A, Joska JA, O'Cleirigh C, Safren SA. Intersecting Relationships of Psychosocial and Structural Syndemic Problems Among People with HIV in South Africa: Using Network Analysis to Identify Influential Problems. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:1741-1756. [PMID: 36309936 PMCID: PMC10148921 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03906-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In South Africa, little is known about interrelationships between syndemic problems among people with HIV (PWH). A better understanding of syndemic problems may yield important information regarding factors amenable to mitigation. We surveyed 194 PWH in Khayelitsha, outside of Cape Town, South Africa. We used network analysis to examine the frequency of 10 syndemic problems and their interrelationships. Syndemic problems among PWH in South Africa were common; 159 (82.8%) participants reported at least 2 co-occurring syndemic problems and 90 (46.9%) endorsed 4 or more. Network analysis revealed seven statistically significant associations. The most central problems were depression, substance use, and food insecurity. Three clusters of syndemics were identified: mood and violence; structural factors; and behavioral factors. Depression, substance use, and food insecurity commonly co-occur among PWH in sub-Saharan Africa and interfere with HIV outcomes. Network analysis can identify intervention targets to potentially improve HIV treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasper S Lee
- Behavioral Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, One Bowdoin Sq, 7th Floor, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Sierra A Bainter
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Alexander C Tsai
- Center for Global Health and Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lena S Andersen
- Global Health Section, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Ashraf Kagee
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - John A Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Conall O'Cleirigh
- Behavioral Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, One Bowdoin Sq, 7th Floor, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Steven A Safren
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
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Guan M, Guan H. Associations between treatment burden, self-reported treatment qualities, antiretroviral therapy obtainment, and health-related quality of life among Ugandan PLWH. COST EFFECTIVENESS AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION 2023; 21:25. [PMID: 37041641 PMCID: PMC10091552 DOI: 10.1186/s12962-023-00434-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding related risk factors of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) could avoid treatment failure and provide an insight of personalized treatment approach among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH). The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with self-reported treatment qualities and domains of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among PLWH in Uganda. METHOD Data were from "Life on antiretroviral therapy: People's adaptive coping and adjustment to living with HIV as a chronic condition in Wakiso District, Uganda" in English. The World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire was used to assess the HRQoL of 263 PLWH in the sample. Considering variance inflation factors, multiple regression analyses were performed to assess the associations between demographic factors, ART obtainment, treatment burden, and self-reported treatment qualities, associations between demographic factors, self-reported treatment qualities, and HRQoL, and association between ART obtainment and HRQoL. Controlling for the confounding effects, several regression anatomies were employed to explore the associations between self-reported treatment qualities and six domains of HRQoL. RESULTS In the sample, the geographical distribution were urban (5.70%), semi-urban (37.26%), and rural (57.03%). 67.30% of the participants were females. The mean age of the sample was 39.82 years (standard deviation = 9.76) ranging from 22 to 81 years. Multiple logistic regressions reported statistically significant associations of distance to ART facility with self-reported quality of services, advice, manners, and counseling, statistically significant association between self-reported manners quality and four domains of HRQoL, and statistically significant association between TASO membership and domains of HRQoL. Plots from regression anatomies reported that self-reported treatment qualities had statistically significant associations with six domains of HRQoL. CONCLUSIONS Treatment burden, self-reported treatment qualities, ART obtainment, and TASO were possible determinants of individual domains of HRQoL among PLWH in Uganda. PLWH's HRQoL might be improved by promoting medical quality and optimizing ART obtainment in the healthcare providers' practice. Findings in this study had important implications for the redesign of clinical guidelines, healthcare delivery, and health care co-ordination among PLWH globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Guan
- Family Issues Center, Xuchang University, Xuchang City, Henan province, China
- International Issues Center, Xuchang University, Xuchang City, Henan province, China
- School of Business, Xuchang University, Xuchang City, Henan province, China
| | - Hongyi Guan
- Middle School of Xuchang City, Grade 7 Class 18, No, Xuchang City, Henan province, China.
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Enslin D, Mallya P. Factors influencing treatment adherence in hypertension and HIV management in South Africa: A comparative literature review. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2022; 64:e1-e10. [PMID: 36073101 PMCID: PMC10064525 DOI: 10.4102/safp.v64i1.5434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension (HTN) is the most significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in South Africa (SA), with one in three people over the age of 25 suffering from HTN. Whilst human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are the leading causes of death in South Africa, CVD is in the top 10 causes of death, demonstrating the importance of detecting and controlling blood pressure early on. This study aimed to review adherence factors to antihypertensive medication and antiretroviral therapy (ART) and evaluate the resulting factors influencing adherence discrepancies within the South African population. METHODS A comprehensive literature review was carried out. PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane and Embase were searched for English publications between 2000 and 2021. RESULTS A total of 50 articles covering quantitative and qualitative studies were included. Many studies identified poor adherence levels to antihypertensive treatment, reaching a substandard adherence rate of 41.9%, whilst most studies on the HIV-positive population reported good levels of adherence, with adherence rates of more than 90%. Being of the male gender, advanced age, low socioeconomic status and a low level of education were associated with unsatisfactory adherence rates in both groups. Within the HIV group, more participants had better knowledge concerning the extent of their disease and its required treatments. CONCLUSION The results present substandard adherence levels to antihypertensives compared with antiretroviral (ARV) adherence, despite the influence of more non-adherence factors in the HIV group. The authors recommend better adherence counselling for patients with HTN during every clinic visit, regular healthcare worker training and the implementation of ART adherence programmes in patients with hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Enslin
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales, Pontypridd.
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Boncyk M, Shemdoe A, Ambikapathi R, Mosha D, Froese SL, Verissimo CK, Mwanyika-Sando M, Killewo J, Leyna GH, Gunaratna NS, Patil CL. Exploring drivers of food choice among PLHIV and their families in a peri-urban Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1068. [PMID: 35637504 PMCID: PMC9150378 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13430-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A nutritious diet is critical to minimizing disease progression of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and maximizing treatment efficacy. In low resource settings, meeting the food preference needs of people living with the HIV (PLHIV) can be achieved with a supportive food environment when HIV status is disclosed. However, less is known about family-level strategies related to building a supportive food environment. The Diet, Environment, and Choices of positive living (DECIDE), a mixed-methods observational study conducted in peri-urban Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, explored food preferences as influenced by the personal, family, and external food domains. Methods We completed a qualitative analysis of data generated from 40 interviews (n = 20 PLHIV and n = 20 family members) aimed at exploring the dynamics of food choice for using a family perspective. We expanded on Turner’s food environment framework and drew on Giddens’ structuration theory to guide our data collection and analysis. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, translated from Kiswahili to English, coded, and organized into themes. Results We found PLHIV personal food preferences were influenced by organoleptic properties, medications, disease stage, and gender norms. Family members were knowledgeable about the importance of nutritious food for HIV treatment and prioritized these needs to avoid HIV-related stigma and fulfill family obligations. With high prices of nutritious foods (animal source foods, fruits), family members strategized to secure preferred foods for the PLHIV by, 1) forgoing their own food preferences; 2) reallocating food within the household; 3)making food substitutions; and 4) leveraging external networks. These strategies were increasingly employed as the disease progressed. Conclusion The use of this expanded framework that included a family perspective on PLHIV food choice illuminated the various households decision-making dynamics that took place in this low resource community. Family members of PLHIV tried to buffer the limitations imposed by the external food environment, especially as the disease progressed. In the context of HIV status disclosure, integrating a family perspective into HIV nutrition interventions and programs has the potential to influence health outcomes and slow disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Boncyk
- Department of Public Health, Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA.
| | | | | | - Dominic Mosha
- Tanzania Food and Nutrition Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Savannah L Froese
- Department of Public Health, Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA.,Department of Nutrition Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA
| | | | | | - Japhet Killewo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Germana H Leyna
- Tanzania Food and Nutrition Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Crystal L Patil
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, USA
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Vanyoro K. Suspicious bodies: anti-citizens and biomedical anarchists in South Africa’s public health care system. ANTHROPOLOGY SOUTHERN AFRICA 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/23323256.2022.2044360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kudakwashe Vanyoro
- African Centre for Migration & Society, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Tunje A, Jerene D, Kristensson Hallström I. Antiretroviral Therapy and Retention in Care Experiences and Needs of Adolescents Living with HIV in Southern Ethiopia. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2021; 13:999-1007. [PMID: 34858061 PMCID: PMC8631828 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s339413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescents with HIV are faced with challenges when taking care of their medication, which affects their treatment adherence. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the experiences and needs of adolescents living with HIV regarding their antiretroviral therapy adherence and retention in care in southern Ethiopia. Methods An inductive qualitative study design was applied to explore adolescents’ experiences and needs regarding antiretroviral treatment adherence and retention in care in southern Ethiopia. Eighteen adolescents were selected from five HIV care and treatment facilities by purposive sampling. The interviews followed an interview guide, translated into the participants’ national language. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and the first author developed a coding frame for the analysis by using NVivo software including meaning units and codes, which were discussed by all authors. Then, sub-themes and themes were identified and analyzed by qualitative content analysis. Results The results were described in two themes: barriers and facilitators for treatment adherence and retention in care. Barriers were described in seven subthemes and facilitators in three subthemes. Forgetting to take medication, hiding information, or non-disclosure of HIV status, being afraid to collect treatment drugs, being in an orphanage, and school activities were described as barriers while support from health care workers, families, personal motivation to cope with medication-related problems were described as facilitators for antiretroviral therapy adherence and retention in care. Conclusion Adherence is a major challenge among adolescents living with HIV in Ethiopia, with barriers that are unique to this age group and their living conditions. Therefore, interventions should be targeted to address privacy barriers, stigma, and lack of support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abayneh Tunje
- Child and Family Health, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: Abayneh Tunje Tel +251920011972 Email
| | - Degu Jerene
- Child and Family Health, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, The Hague, Netherlands
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Brown LL, Perkins JM, Hargrove JL, Pahl KE, Mogoba P, van Zyl MA. Correlates of Safety Strategy Use Among South African Women Living With HIV and at Risk of Intimate Partner Violence. Violence Against Women 2021; 28:1505-1522. [PMID: 34157908 PMCID: PMC8692488 DOI: 10.1177/10778012211021108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) and HIV are correlated and endemic in South Africa. However, safety strategy use to prevent IPV among HIV-positive women is understudied. This study assesses correlates of specific safety strategy use among 166 Black South African women recently experiencing IPV and testing positive for HIV. Associations were observed between consultation with formal (i.e., counselors, clergy, IPV specialists) and informal networks (i.e., friends/family) and participant language (isiZulu, isiXhosa, Sesotho, and English), past year IPV, and engaging in HIV care. Future HIV-IPV programs should consider how characteristics of different IPV safety strategies may influence strategy uptake and ultimately HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Lauren Brown
- Meharry Medical College, School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,Nashville CARES, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jessica Mayson Perkins
- Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.,Vanderbilt Institute of Global HealthUniversity, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | | | - Phepo Mogoba
- University of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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Gumede SB, Venter WDF, Lalla-Edward ST. Understanding adherence in virally suppressed and unsuppressed human immunodeficiency virus-positive urban patients on second-line antiretroviral treatment. South Afr J HIV Med 2020; 21:1107. [PMID: 32934834 PMCID: PMC7479367 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v21i1.1107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence may assist in designing effective support interventions. Objectives This study elicited perspectives on how to promote treatment adherence from virologically suppressed and unsuppressed patients receiving second-line ART. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted with randomly selected patients active on second-line ART, from five public health facilities in the Johannesburg inner city. Data were collected on demographics, clinical information, participant’s experiences and ART knowledge. Virological failure was defined as exceeding 1000 copies/mL. Results The study sample comprised 149 participants; of which 47.7% (n = 71) were virally unsuppressed and 69.1% (n = 103) were women; the median age of the participants was 42 years (interquartile range [IQR] 36–47 years). Experiencing medication-related difficulties in taking second-line ART (p = 0.003), finding second-line regimen more difficult to take than a first-line regimen (p = 0.001) and experiencing side effects (p < 0.001) were all subjective predictors of virological failure. Participants’ recommendations for improving adherence included the introduction of a single tablet regimen (31.6%, n = 55), reducing the dosage to once daily (26.4%, n = 46) and reducing the pill size for second-line regimen (4.0%, n = 7). Conclusion The results of this study highlight the importance of improving patients’ knowledge about adherence and motivation to continue ART use despite the persistence of side effects and difficulties with taking medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siphamandla B Gumede
- Ezintsha, a sub-division of Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Public Health, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Willem D F Venter
- Ezintsha, a sub-division of Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Samanta T Lalla-Edward
- Ezintsha, a sub-division of Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Thorpe J, Viney K, Hensing G, Lönnroth K. Income security during periods of ill health: a scoping review of policies, practice and coverage in low-income and middle-income countries. BMJ Glob Health 2020; 5:e002425. [PMID: 32540963 PMCID: PMC7299014 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-002425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a reminder that insufficient income security in periods of ill health leads to economic hardship for individuals and hampers disease control efforts as people struggle to stay home when sick or advised to observe quarantine. Evidence on income security during periods of ill health is growing but has not previously been reviewed as a full body of work concerning low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). We performed a scoping review to map the range, features, coverage, protective effects and equity of policies that aim to provide income security for adults whose ill health prevents them from participating in gainful work. A total of 134 studies were included, providing data from 95% of LMICs. However, data across the majority of these countries were severely limited. Collectively the included studies demonstrate that coverage of contributory income-security schemes is low, especially for informal and low-income workers. Meanwhile, non-contributory schemes targeting low-income groups are often not explicitly designed to provide income support in periods of ill health, they can be difficult to access and rarely provide sufficient income support to cover the needs of eligible recipients. While identifying an urgent need for more research on illness-related income security in LMICs, this review concludes that scaling up and diversifying the range of income security interventions is crucial for improving coverage and equity. To achieve these outcomes, illness-related income protection must receive greater recognition in health policy and health financing circles, expanding our understanding of financial hardship beyond direct medical costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Thorpe
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kerri Viney
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University Research Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Gunnel Hensing
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Goteborg, Sweden
| | - Knut Lönnroth
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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Knight L, Schatz E, Lewis KR, Mukumbang FC. 'When you take pills you must eat': Food (in)security and ART adherence among older people living with HIV. Glob Public Health 2019; 15:97-110. [PMID: 31318639 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2019.1644361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
South Africa has increasing numbers of persons living with HIV on antiretroviral treatment (ART). There is evidence for a relationship between food, food security and HIV. Despite increasing rates of people older than 50 living with HIV coinciding with greater levels of co-morbidity, the existing research is largely limited to those aged 15-49 years. In this paper, we therefore explore how older people living with HIV (OPLWH) in two urban communities within South Africa negotiate and ensure they have sufficient access to food and how food insecurity may affect their retention in care and ART adherence. This study used exploratory qualitative semi-structured in-depth interviews with 23 OPLWH to collect data in isiXhosa. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Factors at the community, household and individual levels influence (a) access to sufficient and quality food, and (b) beliefs about ART and food based on (mis)understandings of messaging from health care providers. The results demonstrate the need to explore further and clarify the nutritional guidelines that OPLWH receive from providers to ensure this does not result in reduced adherence or retention in care. They also demonstrate the role that social welfare and family or kin obligations plays in ensuring the food security of OPLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Knight
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Enid Schatz
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Kaleea R Lewis
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Ferdinand C Mukumbang
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa
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Mahroug ER, Sher-Locketz C, Desmirean MS, Abayomi EA, Tomuleasa C, Grewal R. Castleman's disease in the HIV-endemic setting. Cancer Manag Res 2018; 10:4553-4563. [PMID: 30349387 PMCID: PMC6190808 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s175648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Castleman’s disease (CD), first described by Benjamin Castleman in 1954, is a giant or angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia, described as a rare monotypic polyclonal B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder with an incompletely understood pathogenesis and variable clinical behavior. This study aimed to determine the incidence of CD diagnosis over an 11-year period. Additionally, the study aimed to describe the demographic, laboratory, and pathological features of CD. Methods This is a retrospective study where the demographic and laboratory data were retrieved from the Tygerberg Academic Hospital (TAH) patient electronic records and Tygerberg Lymphoma Study Group (TLSG) and statistical analysis performed on the patients diagnosed with CD. Results Fifty-four patients were diagnosed with CD during this period. The median age at presentation was 39 years (range: 9–58). HIV serology was available in 53 patients, of which 51 were HIV-positive and two were HIV-negative. The history of initiation of antiretroviral therapy at diagnosis was available in 43 patients (38 on treatment, four were not on treatment, and one defaulted treatment). The median CD4 count was 232.50 cells/μL (range: 2–883). The HIV viral load was performed in 43 patients at diagnosis, which was <49 HIV-1 RNA copies/μL in more than half of the patients (58%). Diagnosis was made on lymph node biopsies in 53 patients, with one case diagnosed on a spleen biopsy. Kaposi sarcoma was found on the same tissue biopsy in 13 cases. A bone marrow biopsy was performed in 31 patients. The predominant features noted were a disorganized hypercellular marrow with plasmocytosis. Conclusion CD is a rare polyclonal B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. However, we demonstrated a significant increase in the incidence of HIV-associated multicentric CD over the last decade in our area in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esam-Rajab Mahroug
- Division of Haematology, Department of Pathology, University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Candice Sher-Locketz
- Division of Haematology, Department of Pathology, University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Minodora-Silvia Desmirean
- Department of Pathology, Military Hospital of Cluj Napoca, Cluj Napoca, Romania.,Department of Hematology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania,
| | - Emmanuel-Akinola Abayomi
- Division of Haematology, Department of Pathology, University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Hematology, Nigeria Institute for Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Ciprian Tomuleasa
- Department of Hematology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania, .,Research Center for Functional Genomics and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania, .,Department of Hematology, Ion Chiricuta Clinical Research Center, Cluj Napoca, Romania,
| | - Ravnit Grewal
- Division of Haematology, Department of Pathology, University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Pathology, South African Bioinformatics Institute, University of The Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Background: As test and treat rolls out, effective interventions are needed to address the determinants of outcomes across the HIV treatment continuum and ensure that people infected with HIV are promptly tested, initiate treatment early, adhere to treatment, and are virally suppressed. Communication approaches offer viable options for promoting relevant behaviors across the continuum. Conceptual Framework: This article introduces a conceptual framework, which can guide the development of effective health communication interventions and activities that aim to impact behaviors across the HIV treatment continuum in low- and medium-income countries. The framework includes HIV testing and counseling, linkage to care, retention in pre-antiretroviral therapy and antiretroviral therapy initiation in one single-stage linkage to care and treatment, and adherence for viral suppression. The determinants of behaviors vary across the continuum and include both facilitators and barriers with communication interventions designed to focus on specific determinants presented in the model. At each stage, relevant determinants occur at the various levels of the social–ecological model: intrapersonal, interpersonal, health services, community, and policy. Effective health communication interventions have mainly relied on mHealth, interpersonal communication through service providers and peers, community support groups, and treatment supporters. Discussion: The conceptual framework and evidence presented highlight areas across the continuum where health communication can significantly impact treatment outcomes to reach the 90-90-90 goals by strategically addressing key behavioral determinants. As test and treat rolls out, multifaceted health communication approaches will be critical.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify the range and frequency of patient-reported barriers and facilitators to antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). DESIGN Studies from 2005 to 2016 were identified by searching 10 electronic databases and through additional hand and web-searching. METHODS Inclusion criteria were HIV-positive adults taking ART based in any SSA country, qualitative study or quantitative survey and included at least one patient-reported barrier or facilitator to ART adherence. Exclusion criteria were only including data from treatment-naive patients initiating ART, only single-dose treatment, participants residing outside of SSA and reviews. RESULTS After screening 11 283 records, 154 studies (161 papers) were included in this review. Forty-three barriers and 30 facilitators were reported across 24 SSA countries. The most frequently identified barriers across studies were forgetting (n = 76), lack of access to adequate food (n = 72), stigma and discrimination (n = 68), side effects (n = 67) and being outside the house or travelling (n = 60). The most frequently identified facilitators across studies were social support (n = 60), reminders (n = 55), feeling better or healthier after taking ART (n = 35), disclosing their HIV status (n = 26) and having a good relationship with a health provider (n = 22). CONCLUSION This review addresses the gap in knowledge by collating all the patient-reported barriers and facilitators to ART adherence in SSA. Current barriers measures need to be adapted or new tools developed to include the wide variety of factors identified. The factors that have the greatest impact need to be isolated so interventions are developed that reduce the barriers and enhance the facilitators.
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Barroso J, Leblanc NM, Flores D. It's Not Just the Pills: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis of HIV Antiretroviral Adherence Research. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2017; 28:462-478. [PMID: 28286006 DOI: 10.1016/j.jana.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) improves the health and longevity of people living with HIV infection (PLWH) and also prevents transmission of the virus. Yet, lack of adherence to ART regimens has been a persistent problem, even with simpler regimens. Guidelines that deal with ART adherence are based almost solely on quantitative studies; this focus ignores the context and complexity of patients' lives. Guidelines are also focused on the individual. We argue that the solution is to include the broader communities in which patients live, and to deal with systemic disparities that persist worldwide; this can be done in part through demedicalizing HIV care for healthy PLWH. We present findings from a qualitative meta-synthesis of 127 studies conducted around the world on the last two pillars of the HIV treatment cascade: starting and remaining on ART until optimal viral suppression is achieved. We use Maslow's hierarchy of needs to frame our findings.
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Pérez-Salgado D, Compean-Dardón MS, Ortiz-Hernández L. Inseguridad alimentaria y adherencia al tratamiento antirretroviral en personas con VIH de México. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232017222.10792016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumen Los objetivos del artículo son: 1) Analizar la relación entre inseguridad alimentaria (IA) y adherencia al tratamiento antiretroviral (TAR) en personas con VIH/SIDA. 2) Evaluar la contribución de cuatro posibles mediadores (responsabilidades laborales y familiares, falta de recursos para cubrir necesidades, distrés psicológico y efectos secundarios del TAR) a dicha asociación. Estudio transversal con una muestra (n = 557) de personas con VIH atendidas en dos instituciones públicas de la ciudad de México. Las variables fueron indagadas mediante un cuestionario. Mediante modelos de regresión logística se evaluó si los mediadores explicaban la asociación entre IA y adherencia al TAR. Las personas con IA moderada tuvieron mayor probabilidad de omisión en el mes previo (OR = 2.10) y baja adherencia (OR = 3.35). La baja adherencia en las personas con IA fue explicada por los efectos secundarios (14.9%), las necesidades insatisfechas (12.5%), las responsabilidades (4.8%) y el distrés psicológico (2.0%). La IA puede limitar los beneficios de las políticas de acceso universal al TAR pues puede estar asociada con menor adherencia a ésta. Se requiere adecuar los servicios de salud para reducir el efecto de la IA.
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Heestermans T, Browne JL, Aitken SC, Vervoort SC, Klipstein-Grobusch K. Determinants of adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-positive adults in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. BMJ Glob Health 2016; 1:e000125. [PMID: 28588979 PMCID: PMC5321378 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2016-000125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The rapid scale up of antiretroviral treatment (ART) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has resulted in an increased focus on patient adherence. Non-adherence can lead to drug-resistant HIV caused by failure to achieve maximal viral suppression. Optimal treatment requires the identification of patients at high risk of suboptimal adherence and targeted interventions. The aim of this review was to identify and summarise determinants of adherence to ART among HIV-positive adults. DESIGN Systematic review of adherence to ART in SSA from January 2002 to October 2014. METHODS A systematic search was performed in 6 databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, Popline, Global Health Library) for qualitative and quantitative articles. Risk of bias was assessed. A meta-analysis was conducted for pooled estimates of effect size on adherence determinants. RESULTS Of the 4052 articles screened, 146 were included for final analysis, reporting on determinants of 161 922 HIV patients with an average adherence score of 72.9%. Main determinants of non-adherence were use of alcohol, male gender, use of traditional/herbal medicine, dissatisfaction with healthcare facility and healthcare workers, depression, discrimination and stigmatisation, and poor social support. Promoters of adherence included counselling and education interventions, memory aids, and active disclosure among people living with HIV. Determinants of health status had conflicting influence on adherence. CONCLUSIONS The sociodemographic, psychosocial, health status, treatment-related and intervention-related determinants are interlinked and contribute to optimal adherence. Clinics providing ART in SSA should therefore design targeted interventions addressing these determinants to optimise health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Heestermans
- Julius Global Health, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joyce L Browne
- Julius Global Health, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Susan C Aitken
- Ndlovu Research Consortium, Elandsdoorn, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sigrid C Vervoort
- University Medical Centre Utrecht Cancer Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kerstin Klipstein-Grobusch
- Julius Global Health, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Abstract
This study assessed adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia and explored the sociocultural context in which they relate to their regimen requirements. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 105 patients on ART and observations held at the study clinic. We analyzed data using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Our findings indicate that study participants are highly adherent to dose but less adherent to dose schedule. Strict dose time instructions were reported as stressful and unrealistic. The discrepancy between adherence to dose and dose schedule could be explained by time perception, difficulty with the strictness of medication regimens, or beliefs about dose timing adherence. Care providers should acknowledge the complexities of medication practices and engage in shared decision-making to incorporate patients' perspectives and identify effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yordanos M Tiruneh
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
- Center for Gerontology and Health Care Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Box G-S121-6, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
| | - Ira B Wilson
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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van Rooyen H, Essack Z, Rochat T, Wight D, Knight L, Bland R, Celum C. Taking HIV Testing to Families: Designing a Family-Based Intervention to Facilitate HIV Testing, Disclosure, and Intergenerational Communication. Front Public Health 2016; 4:154. [PMID: 27547750 PMCID: PMC4974258 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2016.00154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Facility-based HIV testing does not capture many adults and children who are at risk of HIV in South Africa. This underscores the need to provide targeted, age-appropriate HIV testing for children, adolescents, and adults who are not accessing health facilities. While home-based counseling and testing has been successfully delivered in multiple settings, it also often fails to engage adolescents. To date, the full potential for testing entire families and linking them to treatment has not been evaluated. METHODS The steps to expand a successful home-based counseling and testing model to a family-based counseling and testing approach in a high HIV prevalence context in rural South Africa are described. The primary aim of this family-based model is to increase uptake of HIV testing and linkage to care for all family members, through promoting family cohesion and intergenerational communication, increasing HIV disclosure in the family, and improving antiretroviral treatment uptake, adherence, and retention. We discuss the three-phased research approach that led to the development of the family-based counseling and testing intervention. RESULTS The family-based intervention is designed with a maximum of five sessions, depending on the configuration of the family (young, mixed, and older families). There is an optional additional session for high-risk or vulnerable family situations. These sessions encourage HIV testing of adults, children, and adolescents and disclosure of HIV status. Families with adolescents receive an intensive training session on intergenerational communication, identified as the key causal pathway to improve testing, linkage to care, disclosure, and reduced stigma for this group. The rationale for the focus on intergenerational communication is described in relation to our formative work as well as previous literature, and potential challenges with pilot testing the intervention are explored. CONCLUSION This paper maps the process for adapting a novel and largely successful home-based counseling and testing intervention for use with families. Expanding the successful home-based counseling and testing model to capture children, adolescents, and men could have significant impact, if the pilot is successful and scaled-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi van Rooyen
- Human and Social Development Program, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Zaynab Essack
- Human and Social Development Program, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- School of Law, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Tamsen Rochat
- Human and Social Development Program, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Developmental Pathways to Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Section of Child of Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Daniel Wight
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lucia Knight
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ruth Bland
- Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, UK
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Bipath P, Levay PF, Viljoen M. Tryptophan depletion in context of the inflammatory and general nutritional status of a low-income South African HIV-infected population. JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2016; 35:5. [PMID: 26887418 PMCID: PMC5026021 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-016-0042-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The essential amino acid tryptophan cannot be synthesised in the body and must be acquired through dietary intake. Oxidation of tryptophan, due to immune induction of the enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), is considered to be the main cause of tryptophan depletion in HIV infection and AIDS. We examined plasma tryptophan levels in a low-income sub-Saharan HIV-infected population and compared it to that of developed countries. Tryptophan levels were further examined in context of the general nutritional and inflammatory status. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 105 HIV-positive patients recruited from the Kalafong Hospital in Pretoria, South Africa, and 60 HIV-negative controls. RESULTS Patient tryptophan levels were in general markedly lower than those reported for developed countries. In contrast to reports from developed countries that showed tryptophan levels on average to be 18.8 % lower than their control values, tryptophan levels in our study were 44.1 % lower than our controls (24.4 ± 4.1 vs. 43.6 ± 11.9 μmol/l; p < 0.001). Tryptophan levels correlated with both CD4 counts (r = 0.341; p = 0.004) and with pro-inflammatory activity as indicated by neopterin levels (r = -0.399; p = 0.0001). Nutritional indicators such as albumin and haemoglobin correlated positively with tryptophan and negatively with the pro-inflammatory indicators neopterin, interleukin 6 and C-reactive protein. The most probable causes of the lower tryptophan levels seen in our population are food insecurity and higher levels of inflammatory activity. CONCLUSIONS We contend that inflammation-induced tryptophan depletion forms part of a much wider effect of pro-inflammatory activity on the nutritional profile of HIV-infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyesh Bipath
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Peter F Levay
- Department of Internal Medicine (Kalafong Hospital), School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Margaretha Viljoen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, 0007, Pretoria, South Africa.
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Singer AW, Weiser SD, McCoy SI. Does Food Insecurity Undermine Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy? A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:1510-26. [PMID: 25096896 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0873-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of research has identified food insecurity as a barrier to antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. We systematically reviewed and summarized the quantitative literature on food insecurity or food assistance and ART adherence. We identified nineteen analyses from eighteen distinct studies examining food insecurity and ART adherence. Of the thirteen studies that presented an adjusted effect estimate for the relationship between food insecurity and ART adherence, nine found a statistically significant association between food insecurity and sub-optimal ART adherence. Four studies examined the association between food assistance and ART adherence, and three found that ART adherence was significantly better among food assistance recipients than non-recipients. Across diverse populations, food insecurity is an important barrier to ART adherence, and food assistance appears to be a promising intervention strategy to improve ART adherence among persons living with HIV. Additional research is needed to determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of food assistance in improving ART adherence and other clinical outcomes among people living with HIV in the era of widespread and long-term treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda W Singer
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA,
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Cohen CR, Steinfeld RL, Weke E, Bukusi EA, Hatcher AM, Shiboski S, Rheingans R, Scow KM, Butler LM, Otieno P, Dworkin SL, Weiser SD. Shamba Maisha: Pilot agricultural intervention for food security and HIV health outcomes in Kenya: design, methods, baseline results and process evaluation of a cluster-randomized controlled trial. SPRINGERPLUS 2015; 4:122. [PMID: 25992307 PMCID: PMC4429425 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-015-0886-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite advances in treatment of people living with HIV, morbidity and mortality remains unacceptably high in sub-Saharan Africa, largely due to parallel epidemics of poverty and food insecurity. METHODS/DESIGN We conducted a pilot cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a multisectoral agricultural and microfinance intervention (entitled Shamba Maisha) designed to improve food security, household wealth, HIV clinical outcomes and women's empowerment. The intervention was carried out at two HIV clinics in Kenya, one randomized to the intervention arm and one to the control arm. HIV-infected patients >18 years, on antiretroviral therapy, with moderate/severe food insecurity and/or body mass index (BMI) <18.5, and access to land and surface water were eligible for enrollment. The intervention included: 1) a microfinance loan (~$150) to purchase the farming commodities, 2) a micro-irrigation pump, seeds, and fertilizer, and 3) trainings in sustainable agricultural practices and financial literacy. Enrollment of 140 participants took four months, and the screening-to-enrollment ratio was similar between arms. We followed participants for 12 months and conducted structured questionnaires. We also conducted a process evaluation with participants and stakeholders 3-5 months after study start and at study end. DISCUSSION Baseline results revealed that participants at the two sites were similar in age, gender and marital status. A greater proportion of participants at the intervention site had a low BMI in comparison to participants at the control site (18% vs. 7%, p = 0.054). While median CD4 count was similar between arms, a greater proportion of participants enrolled at the intervention arm had a detectable HIV viral load compared with control participants (49% vs. 28%, respectively, p < 0.010). Process evaluation findings suggested that Shamba Maisha had high acceptability in recruitment, delivered strong agricultural and financial training, and led to labor saving due to use of the water pump. Implementation challenges included participant concerns about repaying loans, agricultural challenges due to weather patterns, and a challenging partnership with the microfinance institution. We expect the results from this pilot study to provide useful data on the impacts of livelihood interventions and will help in the design of a definitive cluster RCT. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01548599.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig R Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA ; Center of Expertise in Women's Health & Empowerment, University of California Global Health Institute, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Rachel L Steinfeld
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA
| | - Elly Weke
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Abigail M Hatcher
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA ; Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Stephen Shiboski
- Departments of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Richard Rheingans
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Kate M Scow
- Department of Soil Science and Soil Microbial Biology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA USA
| | - Lisa M Butler
- Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Phelgona Otieno
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shari L Dworkin
- Departments of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA ; Center of Expertise in Women's Health & Empowerment, University of California Global Health Institute, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Sheri D Weiser
- Departments of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA ; Center of Expertise in Women's Health & Empowerment, University of California Global Health Institute, San Francisco, CA USA
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Cost-effectiveness of socioeconomic support as part of HIV care for the poor in an urban community-based antiretroviral program in Uganda. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 67:e76-83. [PMID: 25032486 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Socioeconomic support reduced nonretention in a community-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) program in Uganda. However, resource implications of expanding socioeconomic support are large, and cost-effectiveness analysis can inform budget priorities. We compared the incremental benefits and costs of providing education, food, or both forms of support (dual support) with existing ART services from a health care provider's perspective. METHODS Costs and outcome data were collected from a cohort of 2371 adult patients with HIV receiving education, food, or dual support from Reach Out Mbuya between 2004 and 2010. The primary outcome was averted loss to follow-up. The number of follow-up days was calculated for each patient along with accrued service and fixed program costs for the alternative forms of socioeconomic support in USD by standard costing methods. The socioeconomic support types were compared incrementally over the study period. RESULTS After 7 years, 762 (33%) of the patients were loss to follow-up with 42% of them receiving food. In the presence of providing ART, education support was less costly and more effective than the alternatives. The average unit cost for education, food, and dual support were $237, $538, and $776, respectively. The average total annual costs were $88,643 for education, $538,005 for food, and $103,045 for dual support. CONCLUSIONS Compared with food or dual support, investing in education of the children of ART patients is less costly and more effective in improving patient retention. Reach Out Mbuya should embrace this paradigm shift and channel its resources more efficiently and effectively by focusing on education support.
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Determinants of Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence among Women in Southern Malawi: Healthcare Providers' Perspectives. AIDS Res Treat 2014; 2014:489370. [PMID: 25610641 PMCID: PMC4291129 DOI: 10.1155/2014/489370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Revised: 12/07/2014] [Accepted: 12/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. The purpose of this study was to explore healthcare providers' perspectives on antiretroviral (ART) adherence in two ART clinics in southern Malawi. Nonadherence to ART is a significant hindrance to the success of HIV/AIDS treatment. Methods. A one-on-one semistructured interview was conducted with eight healthcare providers in two ART clinics in rural and urban southern Malawi. The interviews were focused on factors facilitating or hindering ART adherence and strategies to improve adherence. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and content-analyzed with the use of the constant comparison approach. Results. Of the eight participants, 63% were between the ages of 20 and 30 years and 37% were HIV counselors. Factors facilitating adherence include patients' belief and knowledge, HIV/AIDS education, and a supportive network. Barriers to adherence include discrimination, nondisclosure of HIV status, food insecurity, medication side effects, religion, misinformation, and staff and drug shortages. Strategies to improve adherence were identified by participants to include nutritional/food supplementation for malnourished or undernourished patients and patient counseling. Conclusions. There is a need for collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, patients, and faith-based organizations to identify and address hindrances and facilitators to patients' adherence. Further research is needed to develop strategies addressing religion, staff, and drug shortages.
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Young S, Wheeler AC, McCoy SI, Weiser SD. A review of the role of food insecurity in adherence to care and treatment among adult and pediatric populations living with HIV and AIDS. AIDS Behav 2014; 18 Suppl 5:S505-15. [PMID: 23842717 PMCID: PMC3888651 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-013-0547-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is critical for reducing HIV/AIDS morbidity and mortality. Food insecurity (FI) is emerging as an important barrier to adherence to care and treatment recommendations for people living with HIV (PLHIV), but this relationship has not been comprehensively examined. Therefore, we reviewed the literature to explore how FI may impact ART adherence, retention in medical care, and adherence to health care recommendations among PLHIV. We found data to support FI as a critical barrier to adherence to ART and to other health care recommendations among HIV-infected adults, HIV-infected pregnant women and their HIV-exposed infants, and child and adolescent populations of PLHIV. Associations between FI and ART non-adherence were seen in qualitative and quantitative studies. We identified a number of mechanisms to explain how food insecurity and ART non-adherence may be causally linked, including the exacerbation of hunger or ART side effects in the absence of adequate food and competing resource demands. Interventions that address FI may improve adherence to care and treatment recommendations for PLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sera Young
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, 113 Savage Hall, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA,
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Kapesa A, Magesa D, William A, Kaswija J, Seni J, Makwaya C. Determinants of immunological failure among clients on the first line treatment with highly active antiretroviral drugs in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2014. [DOI: 10.12980/apjtb.4.2014apjtb-2013-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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Kekwaletswe CT, Morojele NK. Alcohol use, antiretroviral therapy adherence, and preferences regarding an alcohol-focused adherence intervention in patients with human immunodeficiency virus. Patient Prefer Adherence 2014; 8:401-13. [PMID: 24729688 PMCID: PMC3976236 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s55547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary objectives of this study were to determine the association between alcohol and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and the perceived appropriateness and acceptability of elements of an adherence counseling program with a focus on alcohol-related ART nonadherence among a sample of ART recipients in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) clinics in Tshwane, South Africa. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study with purposive sampling. The sample comprised 304 male and female ART recipients at two President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief-supported HIV clinics. Using an interview schedule, we assessed patients' alcohol use (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test), other drug use, level of adherence to ART, and reasons for missing ART doses (AIDS Clinical Trials Group adherence instrument). Additionally, patients' views were solicited on: the likely effectiveness of potential facilitators; the preferred quantity, duration, format, and setting of the sessions; the usefulness of having family members/friends attend sessions along with the patient; and potential skill sets to be imparted. RESULTS About half of the male drinkers' and three quarters of the female drinkers' Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test scores were suggestive of hazardous or harmful drinking. Average self-reported ART adherence was 89.7%. There was a significant association between level of alcohol use and degree of ART adherence. Overall, participants perceived two clinic-based sessions, each of one hour's duration, in a group format, and facilitated by a peer or adherence counselor, as most appropriate and acceptable. Participants also had a favorable attitude towards family and friends accompanying them to the sessions. They also favored an alcohol-focused adherence counseling program that employs motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy-type approaches. CONCLUSION The association between alcohol use and ART nonadherence points to a need for alcohol-focused ART adherence interventions. Patients' perceptions suggest their amenability to clinic-based brief motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy-type adherence interventions delivered by lay persons in group settings. Further research should investigate how best to implement such interventions in the existing health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie T Kekwaletswe
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Unit, Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Neo K Morojele
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Unit, Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Ruud KW, Srinivas SC, Toverud EL. Knowledge of HIV and its treatment among health care providers in South Africa. Int J Clin Pharm 2013; 36:352-9. [PMID: 24366678 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-013-9902-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In South Africa, availability of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs has increased largely in the public sector since it became available in 2004. Follow-up of stabilized patients on ARV drugs are done in primary health care (PHC) facilities run by nurses, often without specialized training. This has deep impact on the patients' drug adherence. OBJECTIVE To investigate health care providers' (HCPs) knowledge about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The aim was also to investigate nurses' knowledge and experience regarding adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting. SETTING Public PHC clinics in one district of the Eastern Cape Province. METHOD Personal interviews, using a structured questionnaire, were conducted with 102 HCPs (nurses and auxiliary staff) working at six PHC facilities, one community health centre and one health post. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Knowledge about HIV and ART among nurses and auxiliary staff. RESULTS Both nurses and auxiliary staff had some basic knowledge about symptoms of HIV and modes of transmission, but great uncertainty was seen regarding specific topics including ARV drugs, ADRs and HIV complications. The PHC staff were uncertain about how to administer ARV drugs--with or without food--and some of them would advice their patients not to take ARV drugs at times when food was lacking. Both nurses and auxiliary staff knew that HIV was treated with ARV drugs. Only 60 % of the HCPs claimed that ART was the only effective treatment for HIV, whereas 39 % claimed that nutritious food also could treat HIV. Nurses showed lacking ability to manage ADRs. They also had very little knowledge about ADR reporting, and very few had ever submitted a report at all. CONCLUSION The study shows that both nurses and auxiliary staff are unable to provide the patients with adequate advice about administration of the ARV drugs and management of ADRs. Serious lack of knowledge among HCPs regarding the treatment of HIV presents structural barriers to the patients' adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Wabø Ruud
- Department of Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Pb 1068 Blindern, 0316, Oslo, Norway
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