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Zhou Y, Tang K, Lu H, Chen H, Xie H, Li Z, Huang J, Fang N, Chen S, Wang H, He Q, Chen H, Liu X, Lan G, Zhu Q, Chen Y, Zhang X, Ruan Y, Liang S. Behavioral and emotional difficulties and HIV treatment outcomes among HIV-infected children in rural southwestern China. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2023; 17:51. [PMID: 37072804 PMCID: PMC10114443 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-023-00601-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have not clearly demonstrated the impact of behavioral and emotional problems (BEDs) on treatment outcomes among HIV-infected children on antiretroviral therapy (ART). This study aimed to describe the prevalence of BEDs among this population and identify the factors associated with HIV treatment outcomes. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in Guangxi, China, between July and August 2021. HIV-infected children answered questionnaires about BEDs, physical health, social support, and whether they have missed doses in the past month. BEDs were assessed using the Chinese version of the self-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ-C). The self-reported survey data were linked to participants' HIV care information that was obtained from the national surveillance database. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify factors that were associated with missed doses in the past month and virological failure. RESULTS The study sample was 325 HIV-infected children. HIV-infected children had a higher proportion of abnormal scores on SDQ-C total difficulties compared to their peers in the general population (16.9 vs 10.0%; P = 0.002). An abnormal SDQ-C total difficulties score (AOR = 2.06, 95%CI: 1.10-3.88) and infrequency of receiving assistance and support from parents over the past 3 months (AOR = 1.85, 95%CI: 1.12-3.06) were significantly associated with missed doses in the past month. Between the ages of 14-17 years (AOR = 2.66, 95% CI: 1.37-5.16), female (AOR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.20-4.08), and suboptimal adherence (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.32-4.57) were significantly associated with virological failure. CONCLUSIONS Children's mental health plays a role in HIV treatment outcomes. Psychological interventions should be promoted in pediatric HIV care clinics to improve children's mental health status and HIV treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (SKLID), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Kailing Tang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Hongyan Lu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Hongli Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (SKLID), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Haomin Xie
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Zeyu Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Jinghua Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Ningye Fang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Siya Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Qin He
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Huanhuan Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Xiu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (SKLID), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Guanghua Lan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Qiuying Zhu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China
| | - Xiangjun Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 881 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.
| | - Yuhua Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (SKLID), National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Shujia Liang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, 530028, China.
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Daltro ACB, Almeida CS, Unfried AGC, de Aquino TR, Travassos AGÁ. Virological failure and adherence to antiretroviral therapy in adolescents and young adults living with human immunodeficiency virus. Trop Med Int Health 2023; 28:162-174. [PMID: 36647818 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection remains a major public health challenge. Infected young people at any age are less likely to adhere to care in a timely manner and to maintain a suppressed VL. This review aims to identify factors associated with virologic failure and adherence to drug therapy in adolescents and young adults (10-24 years) living with HIV. METHODS Systematic review using the PubMed and Virtual Health Library databases and including articles published between 2009 and 2021. Data were analysed in six categories: individual factors, pharmacological/therapy-related aspects, factors related to HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) infection, HIV/AIDS stigma, social support and health system/services. The study's protocol was registered on the PROSPERO platform (CRD42020167581). RESULTS A total of 19,819 articles were found in the initial search and 31 studies were included in this systematic review. Most studies were carried out on the African continent. Male sex, alcohol use, low education, adverse effects of medication, lack of social support, stigma related to HIV/AIDS, need for transportation to access the health service and forgetfulness were linked to poor adherence to therapy. Good adherence was achieved with sufficient nutrition, good social support, greater confidence in the use of therapy and fewer ART side effects. Low levels of CD4, alcohol use, substance abuse, low education, non-adherence to medication and forgetfulness were linked to virological failure. CONCLUSION Individual, social and structural factors constitute barriers to adherence to ART among adolescent and young adults. It is necessary to know the difficulties related to the use of therapy to work out specific strategies that create conditions to improve medication adherence and viral suppression, reducing the levels of virological failure in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carla Santos Almeida
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Medicine, State University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Talita Rocha de Aquino
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Medicine, State University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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Malo VF, Ritchwood TD, Hart LJ, Atujuna M. A qualitative analysis of family support for adolescent HIV care in South Africa. AIDS Care 2023; 35:425-430. [PMID: 36120906 PMCID: PMC10020124 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2121956] [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: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Compared to other age groups, South African adolescents living with HIV (ALWH) have the lowest rates of retention in HIV care and medication adherence. While previous research suggests that familial social support may improve treatment retention and adherence within this population, we know little about the influence of differential types of social support on HIV-related outcomes. Thus, the purpose of this study is to qualitatively characterize the influence of type of familial social support on treatment retention and adherence among ALWH. We interviewed adolescents living with perinatally-acquired HIV (n = 20), their caregivers (n = 19), and community stakeholders (n = 20) in Cape Town, South Africa. Data were coded using deductive and inductive approaches to content analysis. We identified four types of familial social support: instrumental, appraisal, emotional, and informational support. Families provided instrumental support through logistical assistance, including transportation to appointments and pill reminders. Families also provided both emotional support and appraisal support, encouraging ALWH to adhere to their medication regimens by reflecting upon its importance to their futures. For informational support, families often educated ALWH about their HIV status and strategies for disease self-management. In characterizing familial social support, our findings highlight potential targets of future interventions to improve HIV-related outcomes among ALWH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tiarney D. Ritchwood
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, US
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, US
| | - Lauren J. Hart
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, US
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Kouamou V, Machekano R, Mapangisana T, Maposhere C, Mutetwa R, Manasa J, Shamu T, McCarty K, Munyati S, Mutsvangwa J, Bogoshi M, Israelski D, Katzenstein D. Clinic-based SAMBA-II vs centralized laboratory viral load assays among HIV-1 infected children, adolescents and young adults in rural Zimbabwe: A randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281279. [PMID: 36787296 PMCID: PMC9928130 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Zimbabwe, children, adolescents and young adults living with HIV (CALWH) who are on public health antiretroviral therapy (ART) have inadequate viral load (VL) suppression. We assessed whether a clinic-based VL monitoring could decrease 12-month virologic failure rates among these CALWH. METHODS The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03986099. CALWH in care at Chidamoyo Christian Hospital (CCH) and 8 rural outreach sites (ROS) on long-term community-based ART were randomized (1:1) to 6 monthly VL monitoring by COBAS®Ampliprep®/Taqman48® HIV-1 at the provincial referral laboratory (PRL) as per standard of care (SOC) or by the clinic-based SAMBA II assay, Diagnostics for the Real World, at CCH. VL suppression, turn-around-time (TAT) for VL results, drug switching and drug resistance in second-line failure were assessed at 12 months. RESULTS Of 390 CALWH enrolled 347 (89%) completed 12 months follow-up. Median (IQR) age and ART duration were 14.1 (9.7-18.2) and 6.4 (3.7-7.9) years, respectively. Over half (57%) of the participants were female. At enrolment, 78 (20%) had VL ≥1,000 copies/ml and VL suppression of 80% was unchanged after 12 months, with no significant difference between the SOC (81%) and the clinic-based (80%) arms (p = 0.528). Median (IQR) months to confirmatory VL result at CCH vs PRL was 4.0 (2.1-4.4) vs 4.5 (3.5-6.3) respectively; p = 0.027 at 12 months. Drug switching was documented among 26/347 (7%) participants with no difference between the median (IQR) time to switch in SOC vs clinic-based arms (5.1 (3.9-10.0) months vs 4.4 (2.5-8.4) respectively; p = 0.569). Out of 24 confirmed second-line failures, only 4/19 (21%) had protease inhibitor resistance. CONCLUSION In rural Zimbabwe, the clinic-based SAMBA II assay was able to provide confirmatory VL results faster than the SOC VL assay at the PRL. However, this rapid TAT did not allow for a more efficient drug switch among these CALWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinie Kouamou
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Caroline Maposhere
- Department of Molecular Biology, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Reggie Mutetwa
- Department of Molecular Biology, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Justen Manasa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- African Institute for Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tinei Shamu
- Newlands Clinic, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Shungu Munyati
- Department of Molecular Biology, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Junior Mutsvangwa
- Department of Molecular Biology, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Mampedi Bogoshi
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Dennis Israelski
- Gilead Sciences Inc, Foster City, California, United States of America
| | - David Katzenstein
- Department of Molecular Biology, Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
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Sileo KM, Wanyenze RK, Anecho A, Luttinen R, Semei C, Mukasa B, Musoke W, Vermund SH, Dworkin SL, Dovidio JF, Taylor BS, Kershaw TS. Protocol for the pilot quasi-experimental controlled trial of a gender-responsive implementation strategy with providers to improve HIV outcomes in Uganda. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2022; 8:264. [PMID: 36564795 PMCID: PMC9783690 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-022-01202-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antiretroviral treatment (ART) is the most effective clinical intervention for reducing morbidity and mortality among persons living with HIV. However, in Uganda, there are disparities between men and women in viral load suppression and related HIV care engagement outcomes, which suggests problems with the implementation of ART. Gender norms are a known driver of HIV disparities in sub-Saharan Africa, and patient-provider relationships are a key factor in HIV care engagement; therefore, the role of gender norms is important to consider in interventions to achieve the equitable provision of treatment and the quality of ART counseling. METHODS The overall research objective of this study is to pilot test an implementation strategy (i.e., methods to improve the implementation of an evidence-based intervention) to increase providers' capacity to provide gender-responsive treatment and counseling to men and women on HIV treatment in Uganda. Delivered to HIV providers, this group training adapts evidence-based strategies to reduce gender biases and increase skills to deliver gender-specific and transformative HIV counseling to patients. The implementation strategy will be piloted through a quasi-experimental controlled trial. Clinics will be randomly assigned to either the intervention or control conditions. The trial will assess feasibility and acceptability and explore barriers and facilitators to implementation and future adoption while gathering preliminary evidence on the implementation strategy's effectiveness by comparing changes in patient (N = 240) and provider (N = 80-140) outcomes across intervention and control clinics through 12-month follow-up. Quantitative data will be descriptively analyzed, qualitative data will be analyzed through thematic analysis, and these data will be mixed during the presentation and interpretation of results where appropriate. DISCUSSION This pilot intervention trial will gather preliminary evidence on the acceptability, feasibility, and potential effect of a novel implementation strategy to improve men and women's HIV care engagement, with the potential to reduce gender disparities in HIV outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05178979 , retrospectively registered on January 5, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Sileo
- Department of Public Health, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - R K Wanyenze
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - A Anecho
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - R Luttinen
- Department of Demography, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - C Semei
- Mildmay Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - S H Vermund
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - S L Dworkin
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Washington Bothell, Bothell, WA, USA
| | - J F Dovidio
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - B S Taylor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Joe R. & Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - T S Kershaw
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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Patel RC, Oyaro P, Thomas KK, Wagude J, Mukui I, Brown E, Hassan SA, Kinywa E, Oluoch F, Odhiambo F, Oyaro B, Kingwara L, Karauki E, Yongo N, Otieno L, John-Stewart GC, Abuogi LL. Point-of-care HIV viral load and targeted drug resistance mutation testing versus standard care for Kenyan children on antiretroviral therapy (Opt4Kids): an open-label, randomised controlled trial. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2022; 6:681-691. [PMID: 35987208 PMCID: PMC9482947 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(22)00191-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feasible, scalable, and cost-effective approaches to ensure virological suppression among children living with HIV are urgently needed. The aim of the Opt4Kids study was to determine the effect of point of care viral load and targeted drug resistance mutation testing in improving virological suppression among children on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Kenya. METHODS In this open-label, individually randomised controlled trial, we enrolled children living with HIV aged 1-14 years and who were either newly initiating or already receiving ART at five study facilities in Kenya. Participants were randomly allocated 1:1 to receive the intervention of point-of-care viral load testing every 3 months, targeted drug resistance mutation testing, and clinical decision support (point-of-care testing) or to receive the standard care (control group), stratified by facility site and age groups (1-9 years vs 10-14 years). Investigators were masked to the randomised group. The primary efficacy outcome was virological suppression (defined as a viral load of <1000 copies per mL) by point-of-care viral load testing at 12 months after enrolment in all participants with an assessment. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03820323. FINDINGS Between March 7, 2019, and December 31, 2020, we enrolled 704 participants. Median age at enrolment was 9 years (IQR 7-12), 344 (49%) participants were female and 360 (51%) were male, and median time on ART was 5·8 years (IQR 3·1-8·6). 536 (76%) of 704 had documented virological suppression at enrolment. At 12 months after enrolment, the proportion of participants achieving virological suppression in the intervention group (283 [90%] of 313 participants with a 12 month point-of-care viral load test) did not differ from that in the control group (289 [92%] of 315; risk ratio [RR] 0·99, 95% CI 0·94-1·03; p=0·55). We identified 138 episodes of viraemia in intervention participants, of which 107 (89%) samples successfully underwent drug resistance mutation testing and 91 (85%) had major drug resistance mutations. The median turnaround time for viral load results was 1 day (IQR 0-1) in the intervention group and 15 days (10-21) in the control group. INTERPRETATION Point-of-care viral load testing decreased turnaround time and targeted drug resistance mutation testing identified a high prevalence of HIV drug resistance mutations in children living with HIV, but the combined approach did not increase rates of virological suppression. Further research in combination interventions, including point-of-care viral load and drug resistance mutation testing coupled with psychosocial support, is needed to optimise virological suppression for children living with HIV. FUNDING National Institutes of Mental Health of the US National Institutes of Health, Thrasher Research Fund.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rena C Patel
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Irene Mukui
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Shukri A Hassan
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Francesca Odhiambo
- Family AIDS Care and Education Services, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Boaz Oyaro
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-CDC, Kisian, Kenya
| | - Leonard Kingwara
- National HIV Reference Laboratory, Kenya Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Lindah Otieno
- Family AIDS Care and Education Services, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Grace C John-Stewart
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Departments of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lisa L Abuogi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
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7
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Perez A, Brittain K, Phillips N, Stein DJ, Zar HJ, Myer L, Hoare J. HIV-Related Stigma and Psychological Adjustment Among Perinatally HIV-Infected Youth in Cape Town, South Africa. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:434-442. [PMID: 34318399 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03398-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The effect of chronic HIV-infection on psychological adjustment, including the impact of HIV-related stigma in perinatally HIV-infected (PHIV+) youth across Africa is largely unknown. This study examined psychological adjustment and HIV-related stigma using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and a 10-item stigma questionnaire in a cohort of PHIV+ youth in Cape Town, South Africa. The relationships between SDQ scores, elevated viral load, and suboptimal antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence were also explored. Among 473 PHIV+ youth (aged 9-14 years, on ART > 6 months at enrollment), higher perceived HIV-related stigma was associated with higher scores across all adolescent and caregiver-reported SDQ difficulty subscales. Higher socioeconomic status (SES) was associated with lower scores on adolescent self- and caregiver-reported hyperactivity subscales. Higher adolescent-reported prosocial scores were associated with lower odds of self-reported suboptimal ART adherence, and higher caregiver-reported conduct scores were associated with higher odds of elevated viral load. No associations were observed between perceived HIV-related stigma and treatment outcomes. These findings highlight the potentially detrimental impact of perceived stigma on psychological adjustment in PHIV+ youth. The use of psychosocial metrics and interventions aimed at reducing illness related stigma in PHIV+ youth is also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Perez
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Research, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kirsty Brittain
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Research, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nicole Phillips
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health in the Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Research Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Dan J Stein
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health in the Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Research Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Heather J Zar
- Department of Paediatrics & Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Medical Research Council Unit on Child & Adolescent Health, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Research, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jacqueline Hoare
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health in the Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- South African Medical Research Council Research Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Cape Town, South Africa.
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8
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Callen G, Chory A, Sang F, Munyoro D, Aluoch J, Scanlon M, Enane L, McHenry M, Wools-Kaloustian K, Apondi E, Vreeman R. A Qualitative Examination of Perceived Stigma and its Sources Among Adolescents Living With HIV in Western Kenya. Glob Pediatr Health 2022; 9:2333794X211065335. [PMID: 35024383 PMCID: PMC8744199 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x211065335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Adolescents (10-19 years) living with HIV (ALWH) face unique challenges in controlling HIV long-term, including stigma and perception of stigma within their communities. Methods. We conducted a qualitative investigation of the sources of perceived HIV-related stigma with ALWH in western Kenya. Forty-six ALWH on ART, aware of their status, and engaged in care were enrolled. Interviews explored perceived stigma by probing the individuals and experiences that adolescents identify as causing or perpetuating their ongoing fears. Results. Participants (54% male, mean age 17.4) reported ongoing fears of stigmatization related to friends and peers not living with HIV. They described previous enacted and first-hand observations of stigma, most often occurring in pre-adolescence, by age mates or peers at school as the most common cause for their ongoing fears. Conclusions. Perceived stigma is prevalent among ALWH and develops from experiences in pre-adolescence. Anti-HIV stigma interventions addressing educators and children in school settings to combat perceived stigma at its source should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant Callen
- Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Ashley Chory
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health,
Department of Health Systems Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at
Mt. Sinai, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Festus Sang
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Dennis Munyoro
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | | | - Michael Scanlon
- Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Leslie Enane
- Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Megan McHenry
- Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital,
Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Rachel Vreeman
- Academic Model Providing Access to
Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health,
Department of Health Systems Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at
Mt. Sinai, New York City, NY, USA
- Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
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Madiba S, Mohlabane N. Attendance of psychosocial teen clubs and self-reported antiretroviral medication adherence: a cross section study of adolescents with perinatal HIV in the Kingdom of Lesotho. AIMS Public Health 2021; 8:541-552. [PMID: 34395704 PMCID: PMC8334641 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2021044] [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: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To address the problem of poor adherence among adolescents with perinatal HIV (PHIV), all clinics in Lesotho offer adolescent-friendly services and psychosocial support to improve their overall health outcomes and adherence. As a result, most adolescents with PHIV attend Teen Clubs as part of the package of youth-friendly HIV services. This study set out to determine whether attending Teen Clubs facilitates treatment adherence among adolescents with PHIV. Methods In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from 130 adolescents aged 10–19 years who were aware of their HIV status and had attended three or more Teen Club sessions in selected clinics in rural district in Lesotho. Adherence was measured through self-report of last pills missed, based on the 7-days recall of pills taken. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Results The median age of adolescents was 15 years, 56% were female, 37.7% were orphans, 41% were being cared for by their grandparents, 6.9% were living with siblings with no adult figure, and two were living on their own. The majority (93%) reported optimal adherence, 92% had not missed a clinic appointment in the past 30 days, and 74.4% knew that if they skipped doses, the viral load would increase and they would get sick. Over half (56%) had been reminded by their caregivers to take their medication and 96% talked to their caregivers regularly about their medication. Conclusion A supportive environment provided through the Teen Clubs and in the home were the main facilitators for adherence. Strategies to improve adherence among adolescents should consider the importance of the involvement of caregivers in the adolescents' visits to their clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sphiwe Madiba
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ntaoleng Mohlabane
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
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10
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Bongfen MC, Torpey K, Ganle J, Ankomah A. Level of adherence and associated factors among HIV-positive adolescents on antiretroviral therapy in Cameroon. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2021; 19:269-275. [PMID: 33337976 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2020.1833055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aim: Globally, there were over 250 000 new HIV infections among adolescents in 2017, with a higher proportion of these in sub-Saharan Africa. In Cameroon, UNICEF estimated over 4 200 new HIV infections in adolescents in 2015; by 2016, there were over 40 000 adolescents who had HIV. Given that the number of adolescents living with HIV in Cameroon is on the increase, there is a need to better understand the factors influencing adherence to treatment. The objective of this study was to assess the factors associated with adherence among adolescents in Cameroon. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 460 HIV+ adolescents who were receiving antiretroviral therapy were sampled randomly from nine health facilities. Questionnaires and data extraction forms were used to collect data. Descriptive (frequencies and proportions) and inferential (chi-square and multivariate logistic regression) statistical analyses methods were used to analyse the data. Statistical significance was set at p = 0.05 and 95% confidence level. Results: The level of adherence to antiretroviral therapy among the adolescents was 83%. Twelve out of 30 independent variables examined showed significant statistical association with adherence at the bivariate level. In the multivariable logistic regression analyses, however, only two variables significantly predicted adherence - experiencing side effects (AOR = 2.63; 95% CI = 1.14, 6.09; p = 0.02), and internalized stigma (AOR = 2.51; 95% CI = 1.04, 6.04; p = 0.04). Conclusion: Adherence to treatment among adolescents in Cameroon was found to be suboptimal. There is a need for more individualized, targeted medication counselling for adolescents and their guardians as well as strategies to reduce internalized stigma and improve adherence to antiretroviral treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mbuwir Charlotte Bongfen
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kwasi Torpey
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - John Ganle
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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11
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Kidman R, Nachman S, Kohler HP. Interest in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among adolescents and their caregivers in Malawi. AIDS Care 2020; 32:23-31. [PMID: 32178529 PMCID: PMC8073398 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1742861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Over a third of new HIV infections occur in adolescents aged 10-19 globally. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) could be a powerful tool for prevention. Understanding more about the drivers of PrEP interest could inform implementation strategies among this age group. Moreover, family dynamics may play a uniquely critical role for this younger age group, thus it is important to gauge whether caregivers would support their children's use of PrEP. We surveyed 2,089 adolescents (aged 10-16) and their caregivers in Malawi during 2017-2018. Data were collected on PrEP interest, factors that may facilitate PrEP use, and preferences for PrEP modality. We used multivariate logistic regression to estimate the association between the above characteristics and PrEP interest. We find that young adolescents are engaging in behaviors that would put them at substantial risk of acquiring HIV, would likely benefit from PrEP, are largely (82%) interested in using such, would prefer to get an injection over taking a daily pill, and are considerably discouraged by the prospect of side effects. Endorsement by caregivers was even greater (87%). Our findings demonstrate initial support for adolescent PrEP, and suggest parents may be a surprising advocate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Kidman
- Program in Public Health and Department of Family, Population and Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University (State University of New York), Stony Brook, USA
| | - Sharon Nachman
- Department of Pediatrics, Stony Brook University (State University of New York), Stony Brook, USA
| | - Hans-Peter Kohler
- Department of Sociology and Population Studies Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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12
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Thior I, Rowley E, Mavhu W, Kruse-Levy N, Messner L, Falconer-Stout ZJ, Mugurungi O, Ncube G, Leclerc-Madlala S. Urban-rural disparity in sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviors of HIV-positive adolescent girls and young women and their perspectives on their male sexual partners: A cross-sectional study in Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230823. [PMID: 32324764 PMCID: PMC7179911 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We conducted a cross sectional survey in Zimbabwe to describe urban-rural disparity in socio-demographic characteristics and sexual behaviors of HIV-positive adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and their male sexual partners. Between September and November 2016, we interviewed 360 sexually active HIV positive AGYW, aged 15––24 years attending ART and PMTCT clinics in urban and rural health facilities in Harare and Mazowe district respectively. HIV positive AGYW in rural areas as compared to those in urban areas were older, less educated, more frequently married or cohabiting, had lower number of male sexual partners in their lifetime and in the last 12 months preceding the survey. They were mostly heterosexually infected, more likely to disclose their status to a family member and to be more adherent to ART (OR = 2.5–95% CI = 1.1–5.5). Most recent male sexual partners of HIV positive AGYW in urban areas as compared to those from rural areas were mainly current or former boyfriends, single, more educated, less likely to have a child with them and to engage in couple voluntary counseling and testing (CVCT). They were more likely to patronize dancing and drinking venues and involved in transactional sex (OR = 2.2–95% CI: 1.2–4). They were also more likely to be circumcised (OR = 2.3–95% CI: 1.3–4.1) and to use condom more consistently in the last 12 months preceding the survey. Our study findings called for the strengthening of HIV prevention interventions in urban areas among HIV positive AGYW who had more than one partner in their lifetime or are patronizing dancing and drinking venues. In Zimbabwe, promotion of CVCT, index testing, male circumcision and condom use should be sustained to engage male sexual partners of both urban and rural HIV positive AGYW in HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibou Thior
- PATH, Washington, D.C, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Webster Mavhu
- Centre for Sexual Health & HIV/AIDS Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Lyn Messner
- EnCompass LLC, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Owen Mugurungi
- AIDS and TB, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Getrude Ncube
- AIDS and TB, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
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13
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Nabunya P, Bahar OS, Chen B, Dvalishvili D, Damulira C, Ssewamala FM. The role of family factors in antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence self-efficacy among HIV-infected adolescents in southern Uganda. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:340. [PMID: 32183762 PMCID: PMC7077174 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8361-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescents living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa are a vulnerable group at the intersection of poverty and health disparities. The family is a vital microsystem that provides financial and emotional support to achieve optimal antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. In this study, we explore the association between family factors and ART adherence self-efficacy, a significant psychological concept playing a critical role in ART adherence. Methods Data from an NIH-funded study called Suubi + Adherence, an economic empowerment intervention for HIV positive adolescents (average age = 12.4 years) in southern Uganda was analyzed. We conducted multilevel regression analyses to explore the protective family factors, measured by family cohesion, child-caregiver communication and perceived child-caregiver support, associated with ART adherence self-efficacy. Results The average age was 12.4 years and 56.4% of participants were female. The average household size was 5.7 people, with 2.3 children> 18 years. Controlling for sociodemographic and household characteristics, family cohesion (β = 0.397, p = 0.000) and child-caregiver communication (β = 0.118, p = 0.026) were significantly associated with adherence self-efficacy to ART. Conclusion Findings point to the need to strengthen family cohesion and communication within families if we are to enhance adherence self-efficacy among adolescents living with HIV. Trial registration This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number: NCT01790373) on 13 February 2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St. Louis, Brown School of Social Work, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| | | | - Bin Chen
- Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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14
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Humphrey JM, Genberg BL, Keter A, Musick B, Apondi E, Gardner A, Hogan JW, Wools‐Kaloustian K. Viral suppression among children and their caregivers living with HIV in western Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25272. [PMID: 30983148 PMCID: PMC6462809 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the central role of caregivers in managing HIV treatment for children living with HIV, viral suppression within caregiver-child dyads in which both members are living with HIV is not well described. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of children living with HIV <15 years of age and their caregivers living with HIV attending HIV clinics affiliated with the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) in Kenya between 2015 and 2017. To be included in the analysis, children and caregivers must have had ≥1 viral load (VL) during the study period while receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥6 months, and the date of the caregiver's VL must have occurred ±90 days from the date of the child's VL. The characteristics of children, caregivers and dyads were descriptively summarized. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the odds of viral non-suppression (≥ 1000 copies/mL) in children, adjusting for caregiver and child characteristics. RESULTS Of 7667 children who received care at AMPATH during the study period, 1698 were linked to a caregiver living with HIV and included as caregiver-child dyads. For caregivers, 94% were mothers, median age at ART initiation 32.8 years, median CD4 count at ART initiation 164 cells/mm3 and 23% were not virally suppressed. For children, 52% were female, median age at ART initiation 4.2 years, median CD4 values at ART initiation were 15% (age < 5 years) and 396 cells/mm3 (age ≥ 5 years), and 38% were not virally suppressed. In the multivariable model, children were found more likely to not be virally suppressed if their caregivers were not suppressed compared to children with suppressed caregivers (aOR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.86 to 3.10). Other characteristics associated with child viral non-suppression included caregiver ART regimen change prior to the VL, caregiver receipt of a non-NNRTI-based regimen at the time of the VL, younger child age at ART initiation and child tuberculosis treatment at the time of the VL. CONCLUSIONS Children were at higher risk of viral non-suppression if their caregivers were not virally suppressed compared to children with suppressed caregivers. A child's viral suppression status should be closely monitored if his or her caregiver is not suppressed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Becky L Genberg
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Alfred Keter
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Beverly Musick
- Department of BiostatisticsIndiana UniversityIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Edith Apondi
- Department of PaediatricsMoi Teaching and Referral HospitalEldoretKenya
| | - Adrian Gardner
- Department of MedicineIndiana UniversityIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Joseph W Hogan
- Department of BiostatisticsBrown UniversityProvidenceRIUSA
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15
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Cluver L, Meinck F, Toska E, Orkin FM, Hodes R, Sherr L. Multitype violence exposures and adolescent antiretroviral nonadherence in South Africa. AIDS 2018; 32:975-983. [PMID: 29547438 PMCID: PMC6037279 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES HIV-positive adolescents have low-ART adherence, with consequent increased risks of mortality, morbidity, and viral resistance. Despite high rates of violence against children in the Africa region, no known studies have tested impacts on HIV-positive adolescents. We examine associations of ART adherence with adolescent violence victimization by caregivers, teachers, peers, community members, and healthcare providers. DESIGN AND METHODS HIV-positive adolescents were interviewed (n = 1060), and clinic biomarker data collected. We sampled all 10-19-year olds ever ART-initiated within 53 clinics in 180 South African communities (90.1% reached). Analyses examined associations between nonadherence and nine violence types using sequential multivariate logistic regressions. Interactive and additive effects were tested with regression and marginal effects. RESULTS Past-week self-reported ART nonadherence was 36%. Nonadherence correlated strongly with virologic failure (OR 2.3, CI 1.4-3.8) and symptomatic pulmonary tuberculosis (OR 1.49, CI 1.18-2.05). Four violence types were independently associated with nonadherence: physical abuse by caregivers (OR 1.5, CI 1.1-2.1); witnessing domestic violence (OR 1.8, CI 1.22-2.66); teacher violence (OR 1.51, CI 1.16-1.96,) and verbal victimization by healthcare staff (OR 2.15, CI 1.59-2.93). Past-week nonadherence rose from 25% with no violence to 73.5% with four types of violence exposure. CONCLUSION Violence exposures at home, school, and clinic are major and cumulating risks for adolescent antiretroviral nonadherence. Prevention, mitigation, and protection services may be essential for the health and survival of HIV-positive adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Cluver
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town
| | - Franziska Meinck
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, UK
- OPTENTIA Research Focus Group, School of Behavioural Sciences, North-West University, Vanderbeijlpark
| | - Elona Toska
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town
| | - F. Mark Orkin
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, UK
- MRC Development Pathways to Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rebecca Hodes
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Department of Global Health, University College London, UK
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16
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Ammon N, Mason S, Corkery JM. Factors impacting antiretroviral therapy adherence among human immunodeficiency virus-positive adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. Public Health 2018; 157:20-31. [PMID: 29501984 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2017.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Eighty-two percent of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive adolescents live in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite the availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART), adherence levels are suboptimal, leading to poor outcomes. This systematic review investigated factors impacting ART adherence among adolescents in SSA, including religious beliefs and intimate relationships. METHODS A systematic review was conducted between June and August 2016 using eight electronic databases, including Cochrane and PubMed. Published, ongoing and unpublished research, conducted in SSA from 2004 to 2016, was identified and thematic analysis was used to summarise findings. RESULTS Eleven studies from eight SSA countries, published in English between 2011 and 2016, reported on factors impacting ART adherence among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV). Forty-four barriers and 29 facilitators to adherence were identified, representing a complex web of factors. The main barriers were stigma, ART side-effects, lack of assistance and forgetfulness. Facilitators included caregiver support, peer support groups and knowledge of HIV status. CONCLUSIONS Stigma reflects difficult relations between ALHIV and their HIV-negative peers and adults. Most interventions target only those with HIV, suggesting a policy shift towards the wider community could be beneficial. Recommendations include engaging religious leaders and schools to change negative societal attitudes. Limitations of the review include the urban settings and recruitment of predominantly vertically infected participants in most included studies. Therefore, the findings cannot be extrapolated to ALHIV residing in rural locations or horizontally infected ALHIV, highlighting the need for further research in those areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Ammon
- Picturing Health, PO Box 122, Zomba, Malawi.
| | - S Mason
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9AB, UK.
| | - J M Corkery
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane Campus, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9AB, UK.
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Denison JA, Packer C, Stalter RM, Banda H, Mercer S, Nyambe N, Katayamoyo P, Mwansa JK, McCarraher DR. Factors Related to Incomplete Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among Adolescents Attending Three HIV Clinics in the Copperbelt, Zambia. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:996-1005. [PMID: 29103190 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1944-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa, where the majority of the world's HIV-positive adolescents reside. We assessed individual, household, and HIV self-management characteristics associated with a 48-hour treatment gap in the preceding 3 months, and a pharmacy medication possession ratio (MPR) that assessed the number of ART pills dispensed divided by the number of ART pills required in the past 6 months, among 285 Zambians, ages 15-19 years. Factors significantly associated with a 48-hour treatment gap were being male, not everyone at home being aware of the adolescent's HIV status, and alcohol use in the past month. Factors associated with an MPR < 90% included attending the clinic alone, alcohol use in the past month, and currently not being in school. Findings support programs to strengthen adolescents' HIV management skills with attention to alcohol use, family engagement, and the challenges adolescents face transitioning into adulthood, especially when they are no longer in school.
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18
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Vreeman RC, Ayaya SO, Musick BS, Yiannoutsos CT, Cohen CR, Nash D, Wabwire D, Wools-Kaloustian K, Wiehe SE. Adherence to antiretroviral therapy in a clinical cohort of HIV-infected children in East Africa. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0191848. [PMID: 29466385 PMCID: PMC5842873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and associated factors for a large HIV-infected pediatric cohort followed by sites of the East Africa International Epidemiologic Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) consortium. METHODS This study utilized prospectively collected clinical data from HIV-infected children less than 13 years of age who initiated ART within 4 clinical care programs (with 26 clinical sites) in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania and were followed for up to 6 years. Programs used one of 3 adherence measures, including 7-day quantitative recall, 7-day categorical recall, and clinician pill assessments. We fit a hierarchical, three-level, logistic-regression model to examine adherence, with observations nested within patient, and patients within the 26 sites providing pediatric HIV data to this analysis. RESULTS In East Africa, 3,304 children, 52.0% male, were enrolled in care and were subsequently observed for a median of 92 weeks (inter-quartile range [IQR] 50.3-145.0 weeks). Median age at ART initiation was 5.5 years ([IQR] 3.0-8.5 years). "Good" adherence, as reported by each clinic's measures, was extremely high, remaining on average above 90% throughout all years of follow-up. Longer time on ART was associated with higher adherence (adjusted Odds Ratio-aOR-per log-transformed week on ART: 1.095, 95% Confidence Interval-CI-[1.052-1.150].) Patients enrolled in higher-volume programs exhibited higher rates of clinician-assessed adherence (aOR per log-500 patients: 1.174, 95% CI [1.108-1.245]). Significant site-level variability in reported adherence was observed (0.28), with even higher variability among patients (0.71). In a sub-analysis, being an orphan at the start of ART was strongly associated with lower ART adherence rates (aOR: 0.919, 95% CI [0.864-0.976]). CONCLUSIONS Self-reported adherence remained high over a median of 1.8 years in HIV care, but varied according to patient-level and site-level factors. Consistent adherence monitoring with validated measures and attention to vulnerable groups is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C. Vreeman
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- Regenstrief Institute, Inc, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - Samuel O. Ayaya
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Beverly S. Musick
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Constantin T. Yiannoutsos
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- R.M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Denis Nash
- City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Deo Wabwire
- Makerere University–Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- Regenstrief Institute, Inc, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Sarah E. Wiehe
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- Regenstrief Institute, Inc, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
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McHugh G, Simms V, Dziva Chikwari C, Mujuru H, Nathoo K, Chonzi P, Munyati S, Dauya E, Bandason T, Busza J, Ferrand RA. Familial silence surrounding HIV and non-disclosure of HIV status to older children and adolescents. AIDS Care 2018; 30:830-835. [PMID: 29397759 PMCID: PMC5964448 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1434118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Increasing numbers of children with HIV are surviving to adolescence and beyond, many of whom are orphaned. Disclosure of childrens' and adolescents' HIV status has been shown to improve adherence and retention in HIV treatment programmes. We investigated caregiving arrangements and intra-familial experience of HIV and its relationship to HIV disclosure to older children and adolescents. Children aged 6–15 years, newly diagnosed with HIV infection or previously diagnosed but not engaged in HIV care, were recruited from seven primary care clinics in Harare, Zimbabwe. Their caregivers responded to a nurse-led questionnaire. Family history of HIV, disclosure of HIV status to the child and reasons for non-disclosure were ascertained. The association between sociodemographics, caregiving, family HIV history and other characteristics and non-disclosure of HIV status to the child was determined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. We recruited 385 participants, median age = 11 years (IQR: 9–13); 52% were female. Disclosure had occurred in 79% of children aged 11–15 years and 19% of children aged 6–10 years. Age under 11 years (adjusted OR [aOR] = 18.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 10.64–33.55; p < 0.001), being male [aOR]= 2.56, 95% CI = 1.49–4.54; p = 0.001, being unaware of the parents’ HIV status [aOR]= 32.42, 95% CI = 13.19–79.71; p < 0.001, and being newly diagnosed [aOR]= 2.52, 95% CI = 1.29–4.91; p = 0.007, were independently associated with non-disclosure. Disclosure outside of the family occurred infrequently and included friends of family (7%), school teacher (8%), school headmaster (4%) and church pastor (6%). High non-disclosure rates were present as well as a lack of discussion about HIV within the family. Disclosure outside of family was low reflecting difficulty in caregivers’ ability to discuss HIV with their child or surrounding community. HIV programmes need to support families in the disclosure process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace McHugh
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Victoria Simms
- b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe.,b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Hilda Mujuru
- c Department of Paediatrics , University of Zimbabwe , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Kusum Nathoo
- c Department of Paediatrics , University of Zimbabwe , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | | | - Shungu Munyati
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Ethel Dauya
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Joanna Busza
- b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Rashida A Ferrand
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe.,b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
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Loss to follow-up among children and adolescents growing up with HIV infection: age really matters. J Int AIDS Soc 2017; 20:21737. [PMID: 28715158 PMCID: PMC5577636 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.1.21737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally, increasing numbers of HIV-infected children are reaching adolescence due to antiretroviral therapy (ART). We investigated rates of loss-to-follow-up (LTFU) from HIV care services among children as they transition from childhood through adolescence. METHODS Individuals aged 5-19 years initiated on ART in a public-sector HIV clinic in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, between 2005 and 2009 were included in a retrospective cohort study. Participants were categorized into narrow age-bands namely: 5-9 (children), 10-14 (young adolescents) and 15-19 (older adolescents). The effect of age at ART initiation, current age (using a time-updated Lexis expansion) and transitioning from one age group to the next on LTFU was estimated using Poisson regression. RESULTS Of 2273 participants, 1013, 875 and 385 initiated ART aged 5-9, 10-14 and 15-19 years, respectively. Unlike those starting ART as children, individuals starting ART as young adolescents had higher LTFU rates after moving to the older adolescent age-band (Adjusted rate ratio (ARR) 1.54; 95% CI: 0.94-2.55) and similarly, older adolescents had higher LTFU rates after transitioning to being young adults (ARR 1.79; 95% CI: 1.05-3.07). In older adolescents, the LTFU rate among those who started ART in that age-band was higher compared to the rate among those starting ART at a younger age (ARR = 1.70; 95% CI: 1.05, 2.77). This however did not hold true for other age-groups. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents had higher rates of LTFU compared to other age-groups, with older adolescents at particularly high risk in all analyses. Age-updated analyses that examine movement across narrow age-bands are paramount in understanding how developmental heterogeneity in children affects HIV outcomes.
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Ferrand RA, Simms V, Dauya E, Bandason T, Mchugh G, Mujuru H, Chonzi P, Busza J, Kranzer K, Munyati S, Weiss HA, Hayes RJ. The effect of community-based support for caregivers on the risk of virological failure in children and adolescents with HIV in Harare, Zimbabwe (ZENITH): an open-label, randomised controlled trial. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2017; 1:175-183. [PMID: 29104904 PMCID: PMC5656092 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(17)30051-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children and adolescents have poorer HIV treatment outcomes than adults. We aimed to assess the effect of community-based support for caregivers of HIV-infected children and adolescents, who are key mediators to children engaging with care, on treatment outcomes. METHODS In this open-label, randomised contolled trial, we recruited children aged 6-15 years with newly-diagnosed HIV attending primary health-care clinics in Harare, Zimbabwe. Children were randomly assigned to receive decentralised primary health-care clinic-based HIV care (control group), according to national guidelines for 18 months, or decentralised care plus structured support visits by trained community health workers (intervention group) according to national guidelines for 18 months. Primary outcomes were the proportion of participants who died or had an HIV viral load of 400 copies per mL or higher at 12 months after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation (among those who started ART within 6 months of enrolment); and the proportion who missed two or more scheduled clinic visits by 18 months post-enrolment (among all participants). Analyses were complete-case, modified-intention-to-treat. This trial is registered with the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry, number PACTR201212000442288. FINDINGS Between January, 2013, and January, 2015, 470 participants tested HIV-positive at seven study primary health-care clinics and were screened for eligibility. Of the 334 eligible children and adolescents, 166 were randomly assigned to the intervention group and 168 to the control group. The median age of participants was 11 years (IQR 8-13) and 178 (53%) were girls. Among the 238 participants who started ART within 6 months of enrolment, the proportion who died or had a viral load of 400 copies/mL or higher at 12 months post-ART initiation was significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group (31 [33%] of 94 participants vs 42 [49%] of 86 participants, respectively, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0·46, 95% CI 0·23-0·89; p=0·02). The proportion of children missing two or more scheduled visits was similar in the intervention group and control group (27 [17%] of 155 vs 30 [18%] of 165, aOR 0·92, 95% CI 0·49-1·74; p=0·79). One participant withdrew from the trial 240 days after enrolment and 12 died during follow-up (five in the intervention group; seven in the control group). INTERPRETATION Community-based support for caregivers has high potential for scalability and could have a substantial effect on HIV virological suppression in children and adolescents, a group with disproportionately poor treatment outcomes. FUNDING Wellcome Trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashida A Ferrand
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Victoria Simms
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ethel Dauya
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Grace Mchugh
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hilda Mujuru
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Joanna Busza
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- National Reference Laboratory, Research Centre Borstel, Germany
| | - Shungu Munyati
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Helen A Weiss
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Richard J Hayes
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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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
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an update on the HIV treatment cascade in children and adolescents. We reviewed the literature on the steps in the cascade, for the period 2014-2015. RECENT FINDINGS There remains high attrition of children with regards to early testing and linking those patients who are positive to early treatment. Barriers to screening and testing in children and adolescents are multifactorial. Linkage to pre-antiretroviral therapy care and retention in care are the main steps at which attrition occurs. There are a number of new formulations available for use in adolescents and children which offer more options for antiretroviral therapy treatment. Adherence levels appear to be reasonable in Africa and Asia; however, achieving viral load suppression remains a challenge. SUMMARY We have a long way to go to achieve decreased attrition at each step of the cascade and retain patients in care. Recent improvements in each step of the cascade are bringing us closer to achieving treatment success.
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Pretorius L, Gibbs A, Crankshaw T, Willan S. Interventions targeting sexual and reproductive health and rights outcomes of young people living with HIV: a comprehensive review of current interventions from sub-Saharan Africa. Glob Health Action 2015; 8:28454. [PMID: 26534721 PMCID: PMC4631708 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v8.28454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 08/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A growing number of young people (ages 10–24) are living with HIV (YPLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). These YPLWH have particular needs and challenges related to their sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Contextual factors including gender inequalities, violence, stigma, and discrimination and lack of tailored services undermine YPLWH's SRHR. Objective Understand the scope and impact of interventions targeting YPLWH to improve SRH-related outcomes in SSA. Design We undertook a review to synthesise evaluated interventions (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods) aimed at improving the SRH outcomes of YPLWH in SSA with outcomes based on a World Health Organization framework of comprehensive SRHR approaches for women living with HIV. Using inclusion criteria, only six interventions were identified. Results Interventions sought to improve a range of direct and indirect SRH outcomes, including sexual behaviour, adherence, disclosure, and mental health. Four overarching issues emerged: 1) all interventions were structured according to cognitive behavioural therapy theories of behaviour change – while showing promise they do not tackle the wider gender, social, and economic contexts that shape YPLWH's SRH; 2) ‘significant others’ were included in two of the interventions, but further work needs to consider how to leverage parental/guardian support appropriately; 3) interventions only accessed young people who were already linked to care, participants were likely to have better SRH outcomes than those potentially more vulnerable YPLWH; and 4) none of the interventions explored the sexuality of young people. Conclusions There have been a limited number of evaluated interventions to strengthen SRH of YPLWH in SSA, and gaps exist in addressing the SRHR needs of YPLWH. Intervention approaches require greater scope and depth, including the need to address structural and contextual challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandri Pretorius
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa;
| | - Andrew Gibbs
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa
| | - Tamaryn Crankshaw
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa
| | - Samantha Willan
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa
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Lowenthal ED, Marukutira T, Tshume O, Chapman J, Anabwani GM, Gross R. Prediction of HIV Virologic Failure Among Adolescents Using the Pediatric Symptom Checklist. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:2044-8. [PMID: 25855047 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1061-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Psychosocial dysfunction is a risk factor for treatment non-adherence among children and adolescents. A previous study showed that high scores on the Pediatric Symptom Checklist (PSC) were associated with a history of HIV virologic failure. We assessed whether high scores on the PSC could predict virologic failure in HIV-infected youth. Caregivers of 234 adolescents between the ages of 10 and 16 years were asked to complete a PSC at baseline. Elevated PSC scores were associated with virologic failure in the subsequent 6 months. PSC scores may help guide resource utilization when viral load monitoring is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth D Lowenthal
- Departments of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3535 Market Street, Room 1513, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA.
| | - Tafireyi Marukutira
- Botswana-Baylor Children's Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Ontibile Tshume
- Botswana-Baylor Children's Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Jennifer Chapman
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3535 Market Street, Room 1513, Philadelphia, 19104, PA, USA
| | - Gabriel M Anabwani
- Botswana-Baylor Children's Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Robert Gross
- Departments of Medicine (Infectious Diseases) and Epidemiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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