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Howell J, Deane-King J, Maguire R. Factors Associated with PrEP Stigma Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men (gbMSM): A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2024:1-30. [PMID: 38511847 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2024.2326891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV. While pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective at preventing HIV acquisition, uptake of PrEP among gbMSM is low, which may in part be due to stigma associated with PrEP use. This systematic review aimed to explore experiences of PrEP stigma and to identify factors associated with this. Four databases were searched for papers including terms relating to (i) gbMSM, (ii) PrEP, and (iii) stigma, with narrative synthesis used to analyze results. After screening, 70 studies were included in the final analysis. Experiences of PrEP stigma were found to be characterized by a number of stereotypes and came from a range of sources. Five categories of factors were associated with stigma: (i) healthcare-related factors, (ii) cultural and contextual factors, (iii) sociodemographic factors, (iv) peer-discussion, and (v) psychosocial factors. These findings suggest that stigma can be a common experience for gbMSM. However, some are more at risk than others. Interventions aimed at reducing PrEP stigma may be useful in increasing uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Howell
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | | | - Rebecca Maguire
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
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2
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John SA, Zapata JP, Dang M, Pleuhs B, O'Neil A, Hirshfield S, Walsh JL, Petroll AE, Quinn KG. Exploring preferences and decision-making about long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among young sexual minority men 17-24 years old. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5116. [PMID: 36991027 PMCID: PMC10052280 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32014-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Intramuscular cabotegravir for long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (i.e., LAI-PrEP) was approved by the U.S. FDA in 2021. We sought to explore LAI-PrEP decision-making among a nationwide sample of young sexual minority men (YSMM) 17-24 years old. In 2020, HIV-negative/unknown YSMM (n = 41) who met CDC criteria for PrEP were recruited online to participate in synchronous online focus groups eliciting preferences and opinions about LAI-PrEP, as well as the impact of a potential self-administered option. Data were analyzed using inductive and deductive thematic analysis with constant comparison. Preferences and decision-making about LAI-PrEP varied widely among YSMM, with participants frequently comparing LAI-PrEP to oral PrEP regimens. We identified five key themes related to LAI-PrEP decision-making including concerns about adherence to PrEP dosing and clinic appointments, awareness and knowledge of PrEP safety and efficacy data, comfort with needles, minimizing PrEP stigma, and considerations of self-administration. YSMM acknowledged more PrEP options as beneficial to supporting uptake and persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A John
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
| | - Juan P Zapata
- Department of Psychology, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Madeline Dang
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Benedikt Pleuhs
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Andrew O'Neil
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, STAR Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer L Walsh
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Andrew E Petroll
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Katherine G Quinn
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
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Sang JM, Wang L, Moore DM, Barath J, Lal A, Hart TA, Skakoon-Sparling S, Noor SW, Chown S, Lambert G, Cox J, Jollimore J, Parlette A, Apelian H, Grace D, Lachowsky NJ. Examining Associations Between Resilience and PrEP Use Among HIV-negative GBM in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. AIDS Behav 2023. [PMID: 36867322 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04031-1] [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: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the association between resilience and PrEP use among a population-based sample of Canadian gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM). Sexually active GBM aged ≥ 16 years old were recruited via respondent-driven sampling (RDS) in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver from 02/2017 to 07/2019. We conducted a pooled cross-sectional analysis of HIV-negative/unknown GBM who met clinical eligibility for PrEP. We performed multivariable RDS-II-weighted logistic regression to assess the association between scores on the Connor-Davidson Resilience-2 Scale and PrEP. Mediation analyses with weighted logistic and linear regression were used to assess whether the relationship between minority stressors and PrEP use was mediated by resilience. Of 1167 PrEP-eligible GBM, 317 (27%) indicated they took PrEP in the past six months. Our multivariable model found higher resilience scores were associated with greater odds of PrEP use in the past six months (aOR = 1.13, 95%CI = 1.00, 1.28). We found that resilience reduced the effect of the association between heterosexist discrimination and PrEP use. Resilience also mediated the relationship between internalized homonegativity and PrEP use and mediated the effect of the association between LGBI acceptance concern and PrEP use. Overall, PrEP-eligible GBM with higher resilience scores had a greater odds of PrEP use in the past six months. We also found mixed results for the mediating role of resilience between minority stress and PrEP use. These findings underline the continued importance of strength-based factors in HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Sang
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Lu Wang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David M Moore
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Justin Barath
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Allan Lal
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Trevor A Hart
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Syed W Noor
- School of Human Sciences, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Sarah Chown
- Engage Community-Advisory Committee, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gilles Lambert
- Direction régionale de santé publique -Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Ile-de- Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Joseph Cox
- Direction régionale de santé publique -Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Ile-de- Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Nathan J Lachowsky
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Community-Based Research Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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4
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Santos LAD, Grangeiro A, Couto MT. HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) among men who have sex with men: peer communication, engagement and social networks. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1413-812320222710.06542022en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has renewed optimism in controlling the HIV epidemic, despite its continued growth among men who have sex with men (MSM). The popularity of dating-sexual dating apps and digital media platforms in exchanging information and experiences about PrEP on peer social networks is recognized. However, studies on contexts, motivations, and scope in HIV prevention are scarce. The article aims to understand the dynamics of virtual and face-to-face peer networks among MSM for the decision to use PrEP, its disclosure, and publicity. Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 48 PrEP users from five Brazilian cities. Most interviewees share information and experiences about PrEP in peer social networks. However, its publication reveals tensions arising from the permanence of stigmas associated with homosexuality and HIV. The protagonism in exposing the use of PrEP expresses commitment to attracting new users. The relevance of peer social networks in sharing experiences and information about PrEP has the potential to diversify the target audience and expand and democratize PrEP coverage in the country.
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Santos LAD, Grangeiro A, Couto MT. HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) among men who have sex with men: peer communication, engagement and social networks. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2022; 27:3923-3937. [PMID: 36134798 DOI: 10.1590/1413-812320222710.06542022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has renewed optimism in controlling the HIV epidemic, despite its continued growth among men who have sex with men (MSM). The popularity of dating-sexual dating apps and digital media platforms in exchanging information and experiences about PrEP on peer social networks is recognized. However, studies on contexts, motivations, and scope in HIV prevention are scarce. The article aims to understand the dynamics of virtual and face-to-face peer networks among MSM for the decision to use PrEP, its disclosure, and publicity. Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 48 PrEP users from five Brazilian cities. Most interviewees share information and experiences about PrEP in peer social networks. However, its publication reveals tensions arising from the permanence of stigmas associated with homosexuality and HIV. The protagonism in exposing the use of PrEP expresses commitment to attracting new users. The relevance of peer social networks in sharing experiences and information about PrEP has the potential to diversify the target audience and expand and democratize PrEP coverage in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorruan Alves Dos Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Av. Dr. Arnaldo 455, Cerqueira César. 01246-903 São Paulo SP Brasil.
| | - Alexandre Grangeiro
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina, USP. São Paulo SP Brasil
| | - Marcia Thereza Couto
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina, USP. São Paulo SP Brasil
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Rogers BG, Sosnowy C, Zanowick-Marr A, Chan PA, Mena LA, Patel RR, Goedel WC, Arnold T, Chu C, Galipeau D, Montgomery MC, Curoe K, Underwood A, Villalobos J, Gomillia C, Nunn AS. Facilitators for retaining men who have sex with men in pre-exposure prophylaxis care in real world clinic settings within the United States. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:673. [PMID: 35931953 PMCID: PMC9354303 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07658-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can significantly reduce HIV acquisition especially among communities with high HIV prevalence, including men who have sex with men (MSM). Much research has been finding suboptimal PrEP persistence; however, few studies examine factors that enhance PrEP persistence in real-world settings. METHODS We interviewed 33 patients who identified as MSM at three different PrEP clinics in three regions of the U.S. (Northeast, South, Midwest). Participants were eligible if they took PrEP and had been retained in care for a minimum of 6 months. Interviews explored social, structural, clinic-level and behavioral factors that influencing PrEP persistence. RESULTS Through thematic analysis we identified the following factors as promoting PrEP persistence: (1) navigation to reduce out-of-pocket costs of PrEP (structural), (2) social norms that support PrEP use (social), (3) access to LGBTQ + affirming medical providers (clinical), (4) medication as part of a daily routine (behavioral), and (5) facilitation of sexual health agency (belief). DISCUSSION In this sample, persistence in PrEP care was associated with structural and social supports as well as a high level of perceived internal control over protecting their health by taking PrEP. Patients might benefit from increased access, LGBTQ + affirming medical providers, and communications that emphasize PrEP can promote sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke G. Rogers
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA ,grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - C. Sosnowy
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - A. Zanowick-Marr
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - P. A. Chan
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA ,grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - L. A. Mena
- grid.410721.10000 0004 1937 0407Department of Population Health Science, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216 USA ,grid.410721.10000 0004 1937 0407Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216 USA
| | - R. R. Patel
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - W. C. Goedel
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - T. Arnold
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - C. Chu
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - D. Galipeau
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - M. C. Montgomery
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - K. Curoe
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - A. Underwood
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - J. Villalobos
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - C. Gomillia
- grid.410721.10000 0004 1937 0407Department of Population Health Science, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216 USA
| | - A. S. Nunn
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903 USA
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Zapata JP, Dang M, Quinn KG, Horvath KJ, Stephenson R, Dickson-Gomez J, John SA. COVID-19-Related Disruptions to HIV Testing and Prevention Among Young Sexual Minority Men 17-24 Years Old: A Qualitative Study Using Synchronous Online Focus Groups, April-September 2020. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:303-314. [PMID: 34773214 PMCID: PMC8589091 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02166-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Prior research has highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on HIV prevention services within the U.S., but few studies have explored this impact through an exploratory, qualitative lens. In this study, we sought to highlight the voices of young sexual minority men (YSMM) 17-24 years old and explored the perceived impact of the pandemic on HIV prevention among a diverse, nationwide sample of YSMM who participated in synchronous online focus group discussions between April and September 2020. Forty-one YSMM described the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on HIV testing and prevention services, including limited and disrupted access to HIV testing, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and HIV post-exposure prophylaxis. COVID-19-related challenges were compounded by ongoing, pre-COVID-19 barriers experienced by YSMM in the U.S. For instance, many YSMM relocated back home with family, causing men to avoid HIV prevention services for fear of outing themselves to relatives. YSMM also worried about placing their family at increased risk of COVID-19 by attending clinical appointments. YSMM who did seek HIV prevention services, including access to PrEP, experienced significant barriers, including limited appointment availability and services not tailored to YSMM. Further efforts are needed to support YSMM re-engaging in HIV prevention during and after the COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Madeline Dang
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Katherine G Quinn
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Julia Dickson-Gomez
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Steven A John
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
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Miller SJ, Harrison SE, Sanasi-Bhola K. A Scoping Review Investigating Relationships between Depression, Anxiety, and the PrEP Care Continuum in the United States. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111431. [PMID: 34769945 PMCID: PMC8583073 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men and transgender women in the United States are at increased risk for HIV and may benefit from pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a once-a-day pill to prevent HIV. Due to stigma and discrimination, sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations are also at risk for depression and anxiety. This scoping review sought to identify literature addressing relationships between the PrEP care continuum, depression, and anxiety among SGM individuals and others at high risk for HIV. We conducted a systematic review of four databases (i.e., PubMed, PsycInfo, Web of Science, Google Scholar) and identified 692 unique articles that were screened for inclusion criteria, with 51 articles meeting the final inclusion criteria. Data were extracted for key study criteria (e.g., geographic location, participant demographics, study design, main findings). Results suggest that while depression and anxiety are not associated with PrEP awareness or willingness to use, they can be barriers to seeking care and to PrEP adherence. However, empirical studies show that taking PrEP is associated with reductions in anxiety. Findings suggest the need to implement mental health screenings in PrEP clinical care. In addition, addressing systemic and structural issues that contribute to mental health disorders, as well as PrEP-related barriers, is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Miller
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA;
| | - Sayward E. Harrison
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA;
- South Carolina Smart State Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Kamla Sanasi-Bhola
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29203, USA;
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