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Magdy M, Zaki A, Osman SO, Abd El-Wahab EW, Abd Elhameed A. Predictors of Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among People Living with HIV in Northern Egypt. Ann Glob Health 2024; 90:58. [PMID: 39309762 PMCID: PMC11414466 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.4491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Adherence to medications is a crucial factor in achieving the best therapeutic outcomes for patients who have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Little is known about the rate and predictors of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Egypt. Objectives: To assess the degree of adherence to ART among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Egypt and to explore the predictors of non-adherence. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2021 to December 2021 on 785 PLWHA attending an ART clinic at the main fever hospital in Alexandria, Egypt. Data collection was done using an interviewing questionnaire and pharmacy database records. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to identify the predictors of adherence to ART. Results: The overall adherence rate to ART among the study subjects was 66.7%. Female sex (Adjusted Odds Ratio [95% CI]: 1.73 [1.01-2.96]), intravenous drug use (AOR [95% CI]: 2.87 [1.27-6.49]), fair satisfaction with the health service at ART clinics (OR [95% CI]: 1.86 [1.27-2.73]) appeared as independent predictors of poor adherence. Conclusion: The degree of adherence to ART among PLWHA in Egypt is noticeably high, although it was influenced by several patient-, healthcare-, and community-related factors. This work provides an accurate, standardized tool to measure adherence and identify factors that contribute to non-adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Magdy
- Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Statistics, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, 21561 Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Adel Zaki
- Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Statistics, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, 21561 Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Sherif Omar Osman
- Tropical Health Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, 21561 Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ekram W. Abd El-Wahab
- Tropical Health Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, 21561 Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Abd Elhameed
- Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Statistics, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, 21561 Alexandria, Egypt
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Ashaba S, Baguma C, Tushemereirwe P, Nansera D, Maling S, Zanon BC, Tsai AC. Correlates of HIV treatment adherence self-efficacy among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in southwestern Uganda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003600. [PMID: 39231105 PMCID: PMC11373852 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa is sub-optimal compared to younger children and older adults. Adherence self-efficacy is one of the intrapersonal factors most strongly correlated with ART adherence. The role of adherence self-efficacy in ART adherence among AYLHIV is not well studied in Uganda. We enrolled 300 AYLHIV between October and December 2021 from an HIV clinic in southwestern Uganda. We collected information on adherence self-efficacy, HIV stigma, depression, self-management, and social skills. We used linear regression to estimate the association between adherence self-efficacy and the covariates of interest. At multivariable adjustment self-management (b = 0.29, 95% CI 0.23-0.35, p<0.001) and social skills (b = 0.16, 95% CI 0.08-0.24; p<0.001) were statistically significantly associated with adherence self-efficacy. The findings imply that interventions directed at enhancing self-management and social skills in AYLHIV may increase adherence self-efficacy and, potentially, HIV outcomes among AYLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scholastic Ashaba
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Charles Baguma
- Global Health Collaborative, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Patricia Tushemereirwe
- Global Health Collaborative, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Denis Nansera
- Department of Pediatrics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Samuel Maling
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Brian C. Zanon
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Goergia, United States of America
- Department of Pediatric Infectious, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Alexander C. Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Global Health and Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Thurman TR, Luckett B, Zani B, Nice J, Taylor TM. Can Support Groups Improve Treatment Adherence and Reduce Sexual Risk Behavior among Young People Living with HIV? Results from a Cohort Study in South Africa. Trop Med Infect Dis 2024; 9:162. [PMID: 39058204 PMCID: PMC11281618 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed9070162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa experience poorer HIV outcomes than adults, including lower ART adherence and virologic suppression. They also have high rates of unprotected sex, increasing the risk of adverse sexual health outcomes and onward transmission. This one-arm, pre-post study investigates a structured 14-session support group aiming to boost treatment adherence and sexual protective behavior for AYLHIV in South Africa. Logistic and Poisson regression analyses were performed on self-reported pre- and post-intervention survey data collected approximately 7.5 months apart from a cohort of 548 AYLHIV. Participants were significantly more likely to report at least 95% adherence at follow-up and rate their health as "good;" they also demonstrated greater treatment knowledge and had fewer absences from school overall and due to illness. Among sexually active AYLHIV, contraception use at last sex increased significantly, while condom use did not. Effects were small, and greater programmatic emphasis on adherence and multifaceted service packages is likely necessary to promote viral suppression. Nonetheless, the intervention addresses an important gap in service provision for AYLHIV in South Africa. Findings denote the potential for incorporating care and treatment components into sexual and reproductive health interventions tailored for AYLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonya R. Thurman
- Tulane International, Cape Town 7806, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Brian Luckett
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Babalwa Zani
- Tulane International, Cape Town 7806, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Johanna Nice
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Tory M. Taylor
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA;
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Tunje A, Persson HÅ, Jerene D, Hallstrom I. Intervention fidelity and factors affecting the process of implementing a mobile phone text messaging intervention among adolescents living with HIV: a convergent mixed-methods study in southern Ethiopia. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e077128. [PMID: 38960459 PMCID: PMC11227767 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the intervention fidelity and explore contextual factors affecting the process of implementing a mobile phone text messaging intervention in improving adherence to and retention in care among adolescents living with HIV, their families and their healthcare providers in southern Ethiopia. DESIGN A convergent mixed-methods design guided by the process evaluation theoretical framework and the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance framework was used alongside a randomised controlled trial to examine the fidelity and explore the experiences of participants in the intervention. SETTING Six hospitals and five health centres provide HIV treatment and care to adolescents in five zones in southern Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS Adolescents (aged 10-19), their families and their healthcare providers. INTERVENTION Mobile phone text messages daily for 6 months or standard care (control). RESULTS 153 participants were enrolled in the process evaluation. Among the 153 enrolled in the intervention arm, 78 (49.02%) were male and 75 (43.8%) were female, respectively. The mean and SD age of the participants is 15 (0.21). The overall experiences of implementing the text messages reminder intervention were described as helpful in terms of treatment support for adherence but had room for improvement. During the study, 30 700 text messages were sent, and fidelity was high, with 99.4% successfully delivered text messages during the intervention. Barriers such as failed text messages delivery, limitations in phone ownership and technical limitations affected fidelity. Technical challenges can hinder maintenance, but a belief in the future of digital communication permeates the experiences of the text message reminders. CONCLUSIONS Overall fidelity was high, and participants' overall experiences of mobile phone text messages were expressed as helpful. Contextual factors, such as local telecommunications networks and local electric power, as well as technical and individual factors must be considered when planning future interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER PACTR202107638293593.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abayneh Tunje
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University Faculty of Medicine, Lund, Sweden
- Public Health, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Helene Åvik Persson
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University Faculty of Medicine, Lund, Sweden
| | - Degu Jerene
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Inger Hallstrom
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University Faculty of Medicine, Lund, Sweden
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Gittings L, Ncube N, Ronan A, Chimatira I, Hatane L. Empowering and supporting frontline providers in the paediatric-adolescent HIV response: results from participatory priority-setting and group discussions in twenty-four sites in twelve high HIV-burden African countries. AIDS Care 2024; 36:60-75. [PMID: 38315800 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2308023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Children and adolescents living with HIV in Africa experience poor outcomes across the HIV cascade of care. Paediatric and adolescent-friendly services are crucial to their well-being, and recent years have seen a call for urgent service improvements. While frontline health workers are responsible for these services, less attention has been given to their contextual realities, and what constitutes an enabling service delivery environment. We engaged participatory priority-setting and group discussions across twenty-four sites in twelve high HIV-burden African countries in November 2022 with 801 frontline paediatric-adolescent providers. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and priority mapping. We constructed a socio-ecological model for supportive and empowering service delivery environments for frontline paediatric-adolescent HIV services. Individual-level themes related to well-being, self-care and mental health. Interpersonal themes included supportive supervision/mentorship, teamwork and acknowledgement. At the organisational level, resources, physical infrastructure and confidential spaces were included. The community level included feeling appreciated and positive stakeholder relationships. The structural level included funding, discriminatory SRHR policies and guidelines. Results provide insight into priorities, challenges and needs of frontline providers in the paediatric-adolescent HIV response. Improving the well-being of HIV-affected children and adolescents requires greater investment and attention to creating more caring, supportive environments for their frontline providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Gittings
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nokuzola Ncube
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Agnes Ronan
- Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa (PATA), Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Luann Hatane
- Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa (PATA), Cape Town, South Africa
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Nice J, Saltzman L, Thurman TR, Zani B. Latent class analysis of ART barriers among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Care 2024; 36:45-53. [PMID: 38422434 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2307389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This study examined adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in South Africa. Using survey data from 857 youth on ART, the study employed latent class analysis to identify subgroups based on self-reported reasons for missed ART doses. Three distinct classes emerged: the largest class (85%) occasionally forgot to take their medication or missed a dose because others were around, the second class (9%) missed doses only due to feeling sick, and the third class (6%) faced multiple barriers such as forgetting, feeling sick, worrying about side effects, or doubting the effectiveness of ART. Youth who reported multiple barriers to adherence had significantly lower adjusted odds (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.16-0.78) of reporting 90% past month adherence compared to those who occasionally forgot their medication. Additionally, contextual factors such as food security, being treated well at the clinic, and being accompanied to the clinic were associated with higher odds of adherence. The findings highlight the importance of considering co-occurring barriers to adherence and tailoring interventions accordingly. Addressing contextual factors, such as ensuring food security and providing supportive clinic environments, is also crucial for promoting optimal adherence among adolescents and young adults living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Nice
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- International Health and Sustainable Development department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Leia Saltzman
- Tulane University School of Social Work, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tonya R Thurman
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- International Health and Sustainable Development department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane International LLC, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Babalwa Zani
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane International LLC, Cape Town, South Africa
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Zhou S, Cluver L, Knight L, Edun O, Sherman G, Toska E. Longitudinal Trajectories of Antiretroviral Treatment Adherence and Associations With Durable Viral Suppression Among Adolescents Living With HIV in South Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:171-179. [PMID: 38771754 PMCID: PMC11115368 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared with other age groups, adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) are estimated to have lower levels of adherence to antiretroviral treatment. Despite this, we lack evidence on adolescents' adherence patterns over time to inform the customization of intervention strategies. SETTING Eastern Cape province, South Africa. METHODS We analyzed data from a cohort of ALHIV (N = 1046, aged 10-19 years at baseline) recruited from 53 public health facilities. The cohort comprised 3 waves of data collected between 2014 and 2018 and routine viral load data from the National Institute for Communicable Disease data warehouse (2014-2019). Durable viral suppression was defined as having suppressed viral load (<1000 copies/mL) at ≥2 consecutive study waves. Group-based multitrajectory model was used to identify adherence trajectories using 5 indicators of self-reported adherence. Logistic regression modeling evaluated the associations between adherence trajectories and durable viral suppression. RESULTS Overall, 933 ALHIV (89.2%) completed all 3 study waves (55.1% female, mean age: 13.6 years at baseline). Four adherence trajectories were identified, namely, "consistent adherence" (49.8%), "low start and increasing" (20.8%), "gradually decreasing" (23.5%), and "low and decreasing" (5.9%). Adolescents experiencing inconsistent adherence trajectories were more likely to be older, live in rural areas, and have sexually acquired HIV. Compared with the consistent adherence trajectory, the odds of durable viral suppression were lower among adolescents in the low start and increasing (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.41 to 0.95), gradually decreasing (aOR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.59), and the low and decreasing adherence (aOR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.62) trajectories. CONCLUSIONS Adherence to antiretroviral treatment remains a challenge among ALHIV in South Africa. Identifying adolescents at risk of nonadherence, based on their adherence trajectories may inform the tailoring of adolescent-friendly support strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyanai Zhou
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa & Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom & Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucia Knight
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa & School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Olanrewaju Edun
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gayle Sherman
- Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute of Communicable Diseases, a division of the National Health Laboratory Service, South Africa & Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa & Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Gittings L, Hodes R, Kom P, Mbula S, Pantelic M. 'Remember there is that thing called confidentiality': experiences of institutional discrimination in the health system among adolescent boys and young men living with HIV in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024; 26:575-587. [PMID: 37480578 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2023.2232023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents and men are two populations that perform poorly within the HIV cascade of care, having worse AIDS-related health outcomes, and experiencing higher levels of HIV-related stigma. This paper explores institutional health system discrimination as experienced by adolescent boys with perinatally-acquired HIV, situating them within the social and gendered contexts of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Life history narratives (n = 36) and in-depth semi-structured interviews (n = 32) with adolescent boys living with HIV aged 13-22 were conducted in 2017-2018. In-depth semi-structured interviews with biomedical and traditional health practitioners (n = 14), analysis of health facility files (n = 41) and clinic observations were also conducted. Together, triangulated sources point to an incongruence between the complex needs of adoelscent boys and young men living with HIV and their experiences within the health system. Two institutional discrimination-related deterrents to retention in care were identified: (1) lack of confidentiality due to health facility layouts and practices that visibilised people living with HIV; and (2) mistreatment in the form of shouting. This article contributes to the limited literature on the experiences of young men within the HIV continuum of care, focusing on how stigma influences how young men experience and engage with the health sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Gittings
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rebecca Hodes
- Department of Anthropology, Archaeology and Social Development, Humanities Faculty, Pretoria University, South Africa
| | - Phakamani Kom
- Oxford Research South Africa, East London, South Africa
| | | | - Marija Pantelic
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Zamudio-Haas S, Mahaka I, Chapwanya G, Dunbar MS, Lightfoot M. "I am still human and worth a life:" a qualitative study of the impacts of a community based, peer-led, treatment support model for young adults living with HIV in Zimbabwe. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1367584. [PMID: 38721533 PMCID: PMC11078516 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1367584] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background A persistent treatment gap remains between children and adults living with HIV. The Zvandiri program, developed by Africaid, is one of the few models of differentiated service delivery for children, adolescents, and youth that has been shown to improve outcomes along the HIV care continuum, employing Community Adolescent Treatment Supporters (CATS) to offer peer counseling and patient navigation. Our qualitative study provides an in-depth analysis of the feelings and experiences Zimbabwean youth had following an HIV diagnosis, and the ways that CATS facilitated linkage and retention in care. Methods We conducted in-depth interviews in Shona with adolescents and young adults who were recently diagnosed with HIV in Zimbabwe. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and then translated to English. Interviews were coded in Dedoose using a structured a priori codebook. We wrote semi-structured summary memos for each interview. We co-conducted thematic analysis, guided by interpretive phenomenology with a team of Zimbabwean and American experienced qualitative researchers and community partners. We co-developed memos to elaborate and understand key themes across interviews. Results Most of our interview participants recounted an immediate sense of loss upon testing HIV positive and a fear that "there was no hope for the future." CATS played a pivotal role for youth, providing emotional, educational, and logistical support to facilitate treatment initiation, adherence, and persistence in care. The CATS program supported youth through multiple approaches: group sessions, individual meetings, and via text or phone. While CATS offered counseling and comfort to participants, they emphasized the long-term importance of identifying at least one other person in participants' lives who could know their status and support them around HIV. Conclusion Our findings delineate some of the key concerns that face youth after receiving an HIV diagnosis and the ways that a community-based adherence peer navigation program supported participants to navigate both their feelings and the health care system. Results can inform practice at community-based agencies that are implementing or considering peer youth navigation programs and garner support for policy to fund interventions for youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Zamudio-Haas
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Marguerita Lightfoot
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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10
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Rakhmanina N. Are we ready for long-acting HIV treatment for adolescents? Lancet HIV 2024; 11:e200-e201. [PMID: 38538156 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(24)00039-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Natella Rakhmanina
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Childrens' National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA; The George Washington University, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA; The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, USA.
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11
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Arroyo-Jiménez C, Benjet C, Robles R, Caballero-Suárez NP, Gálvez-Hernández CL, Ordoñez-Ortega J, Suárez-Maldonado MT, Xochihua L. Social and mental health characteristics of adolescents living with HIV in Mexico: Implications for adherence to antiretroviral treatment. J Health Psychol 2024; 29:289-302. [PMID: 37933118 DOI: 10.1177/13591053231207474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Mexico is the third Latin American country with the most children and adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (ALHIV). There is a lack of information on the characteristics of this population. We aimed to describe the social and mental health characteristics of Mexican ALHIV. A census was conducted of all adolescent patients with HIV at a pediatric hospital (n = 47; mean age 14.39, S.D. = 3.65) and their caregivers. We collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, family, intelligence, mental health, adverse life events, substance use, treatment, knowledge of Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) and HIV, and biomarkers. Most cases were transmitted vertically and self-reported ART adherence was above 90%. Some obstacles to adherence were medicine discomfort, believing that they did not need it, and forgetfulness. The vulnerabilities were intellectual disability, adverse life events, possible mental health problems, and little knowledge of their illness and treatment. These findings suggest the importance of interventions to improve the perception and knowledge of HIV and ART to increase ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Corina Benjet
- Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico
| | - Rebeca Robles
- Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico
| | - Nancy Patricia Caballero-Suárez
- Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIENI) del Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias (INER), Mexico
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Park JW, Wilson-Barthes MG, Dulin AJ, Hogan JW, Mugavero MJ, Napravnik S, Carey MP, Fava JL, Dale SK, Earnshaw VA, Johnson B, Dougherty-Sheff S, Agil D, Howe CJ. Multilevel Resilience and HIV Virologic Suppression Among African American/Black Adults in the Southeastern United States. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:313-325. [PMID: 37043167 PMCID: PMC10092932 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01520-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess overall and by neighborhood risk environments whether multilevel resilience resources were associated with HIV virologic suppression among African American/Black adults in the Southeastern United States. SETTING AND METHODS This clinical cohort sub-study included 436 African American/Black participants enrolled in two parent HIV clinical cohorts. Resilience was assessed using the Multilevel Resilience Resource Measure (MRM) for African American/Black adults living with HIV, where endorsement of a MRM statement indicated agreement that a resilience resource helped a participant continue HIV care despite challenges or was present in a participant's neighborhood. Modified Poisson regression models estimated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) for virologic suppression as a function of categorical MRM scores, controlling for demographic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics at or prior to sub-study enrollment. We assessed for effect measure modification (EMM) by neighborhood risk environments. RESULTS Compared to participants with lesser endorsement of multilevel resilience resources, aPRs for virologic suppression among those with greater or moderate endorsement were 1.03 (95% confidence interval: 0.96-1.11) and 1.03 (0.96-1.11), respectively. Regarding multilevel resilience resource endorsement, there was no strong evidence for EMM by levels of neighborhood risk environments. CONCLUSIONS Modest positive associations between higher multilevel resilience resource endorsement and virologic suppression were at times most compatible with the data. However, null findings were also compatible. There was no strong evidence for EMM concerning multilevel resilience resource endorsement, which could have been due to random error. Prospective studies assessing EMM by levels of the neighborhood risk environment with larger sample sizes are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee Won Park
- Center for Epidemiologic Research, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Box G-S121-2, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, USA
- Program in Epidemiology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Marta G Wilson-Barthes
- Center for Epidemiologic Research, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Box G-S121-2, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Akilah J Dulin
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Joseph W Hogan
- Department of Biostatistics, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Michael J Mugavero
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Sonia Napravnik
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michael P Carey
- Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Joseph L Fava
- Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sannisha K Dale
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Valerie A Earnshaw
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Bernadette Johnson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Sarah Dougherty-Sheff
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Deana Agil
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chanelle J Howe
- Center for Epidemiologic Research, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Box G-S121-2, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, USA.
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13
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Jordaan JI, Phillips N, Hoare J. Living through a pandemic: depression and anxiety experienced by youth living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Care 2024; 36:44-52. [PMID: 38029423 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2282072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Youth living with HIV (YLHIV) face significant psychosocial challenges and are at increasedrisk of developing depression and anxiety. This study aims to invesBgate symptoms ofdepression, anxiety and associaBons with psychosocial factors in YLHIV during the first andthird waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. This longitudinal study enrolled 135 YLHIV (ages 12-21) in Cape Town, South Africa. Measures administered telephonically included theCoRonavIruS Health Impact Survey (CRISIS quesBonnaire), Center for Epidemiologic StudiesDepression Scale (CES-D), Beck Anxiety Inventory and Beck Youth Inventory. During the firstwave of COVID-19, 7.5% and 8.0% of YLHIV were depressed (<18 and ≥18 years,respecBvely), and 10% and 4% of parBcipants were anxious (<18 and ≥18 years). During thethird wave, 8.9% and 40.6% of YLHIV were depressed (<18 and ≥18 years), and 13.3% and12.5% (<18 and ≥18 years) were anxious. Depression and anxiety were measured using cutoffscores provided by clinical measures. Symptoms of depression and anxiety in YLHIVescalated over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Socio-economic factors, substanceuse, disrupted support and stability concerns were associated with depression and anxiety.These data highlight the increasing need of mental health support and social intervenBonsfor YLHIV in post-pandemic South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannere I Jordaan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nicole Phillips
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jacqueline Hoare
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Musanje K, Kamya MR, Kasujja R, Vanderplasschen W, Sinclair DL, Baluku MM, Odokonyero RF, Namisi CP, Mukisa J, White RG, Camlin CS. The Effect of a Group-Based Mindfulness and Acceptance Training on Psychological Flexibility and Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Among Adolescents in Uganda: An Open-Label Randomized Trial. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2024; 23:23259582241236260. [PMID: 38446992 PMCID: PMC10919136 DOI: 10.1177/23259582241236260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is lower in adolescents with HIV (AWH) than in any other age group, partly due to self-regulatory challenges during development. Mindfulness and acceptance training have been shown to support psychological flexibility, a self-regulatory skill that potentially improves adolescent adherence to medication. We assessed the effect of weekly group-based mindfulness and acceptance training sessions on ART adherence among older adolescents (15-19 years) in Kampala, Uganda. One hundred and twenty-two AWH (median age 17, range 15-19 years, 57% female) receiving care at a public health facility in Kampala were randomized 1:1 to receive 4 weekly 90-min group sessions facilitated by experienced trainers or standard-of-care ART services. The training involved (Session 1) clarifying values, (Session 2) skillfully relating to thoughts, (Session 3) allowing and becoming aware of experiences non-judgmentally, and (Session 4) exploring life through trial and error. At baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up, psychological flexibility was measured using the Avoidance and Fusion Questionnaire for Youth (AFQ-Y8), and self-reported ART adherence was assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). At baseline, the intervention and standard-of-care arms had similar psychological flexibility (AFQ-Y8 score:15.45 ± 0.82; 15.74 ± 0.84) and ART adherence (MMAS-8 score: 5.32 ± 0.24; 5.13 ± 0.23). Retention through the study was moderate (71%). Completion of mindfulness and acceptance training was associated with a significant reduction in psychological inflexibility at the 3-month follow-up (AFQ-Y8 score: 12.63 ± 1.06; 14.05 ± 1.07, P = .006). However, no significant differences were observed in self-reported adherence to ART at the 3-month follow-up (MMAS-8 score: 5.43 ± 0.23; 4.90 ± 0.33, P = .522). Group-based mindfulness and acceptance training improved psychological flexibility in this population of adolescents on ART in Uganda but did not significantly improve ART adherence. Future research should explore integrated approaches that combine behavioral management training with other empowerment aspects to improve ART adherence among AWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khamisi Musanje
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Educational, Social and Organizational Psychology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rosco Kasujja
- Department of Mental Health and Community Psychology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Martin M. Baluku
- Department of Educational, Social and Organizational Psychology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Charles P. Namisi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Mukisa
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ross G. White
- School of Psychology, Queens University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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15
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Mabasa RA, Madiba S, Mothiba TM. Structural, Familial, and Psychosocial Factors Affecting Long-Term Antiretroviral Treatment Adherence amongst Adolescents Living with Perinatally Acquired HIV in Limpopo, South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:7074. [PMID: 37998305 PMCID: PMC10671703 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20227074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
After more than two decades of the expansion of antiretroviral treatment (ART) in adolescents living with perinatal HIV (APHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa, there is still poorly sustained long-term adherence to ART due to multifactorial factors with the consequence of increased mortality and morbidity. There are little data available on the familial and structural factors which affect sustenance to long-term adherence to ART. A qualitative exploratory design was used to conduct in-depth interviews with 21 APHIV attending HIV care and management in the rural health facilities of Vhembe district in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Transcripts were translated verbatim into English, and data were analyzed using Tesch's eight steps of qualitative data analysis. The sample consisted of APHIV 10-19 years old who were aware of their HIV status, and all had received ART for more than 5 years. They lived in extended, disrupted, grandparent- and child-headed households. They experienced food insecurities due to poverty or orphanhood, as well as living in disrupted households, which deterred them from long-term adherence. In addition, dependency on social support grants to sustain their livelihoods affected long-term adherence. APHIV had challenges with structural factors such as inconsistent clinic attendance, clashes between school activities and clinic appointments, and the lack of transport fare to the clinic, which affected adherence. Although APHIV were on one-pill fixed-dose ART, they were not able to sustain long-term adherence due to various familial, structural, and psychosocial challenges. In addition to institution-based interventions, there is a need for family, community-based, and multi-sectorial interventions to support long-term ART adherence among APHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rirhandzu Austice Mabasa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Executive Deans Office, University of Limpopo, Polokwane 0700, South Africa; (S.M.); (T.M.M.)
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16
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Pitpitan EV, Wiginton JM, Bejarano-Romero R, Baker DA. Promoting HIV care continuum outcomes among people who use drugs and alcohol: a systematic review of randomized trials evaluating behavioral HIV care interventions published from 2011 to 2023. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2182. [PMID: 37936103 PMCID: PMC10629072 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17113-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use remains a robust predictor of HIV infection and a serious impediment to HIV care continuum progression for people living with HIV. The primary research question of this systematic review is focused on understanding the extent to which behavioral HIV care interventions have been efficacious in helping people who live with HIV and who use substances along the HIV care continuum. METHODS Using PubMed and ProQuest databases, we performed a systematic review of randomized trials of behavioral HIV care continuum interventions among people who use substances published from 2011 to August 2023, since the beginning of the treatment-as-prevention era. RESULTS We identified 11 studies (total participants: N = 5635), ten intentionally targeting substance-using populations. Four studies involved samples using ≥ 1 substance (e.g., alcohol, opioids, stimulants, marijuana); four involved injection drug use; one involved methamphetamine use; and one involved alcohol use. One study targeted a population with incidental substance use (i.e., alcohol, injection drug use, non-injection drug use reported in most participants). Each study defined one or more HIV care outcomes of interest. Viral suppression was an outcome targeted in 9/11 studies, followed by uptake of antiretroviral therapy (ART; 7/11), ART adherence (6/11), retention in care (5/11), and linkage to care (3/11). While most (nine) of the studies found significant effects on at least one HIV care outcome, findings were mostly mixed. Mediated (2/11) and moderated (2/11) effects were minimally examined. CONCLUSIONS The results from this systematic review demonstrate mixed findings concerning the efficacy of previous HIV care interventions to improve HIV care continuum outcomes among people who use substances. However, heterogeneity of study components (e.g., diversity of substances used/assessed, self-report vs. objective measures, attrition) prevent broad deductions or conclusions about the amenability of specific substance-using populations to HIV care intervention. More coordinated, comprehensive, and targeted efforts are needed to promote and disentangle intervention effects on HIV care continuum outcomes among substance-using populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen V Pitpitan
- School of Social Work, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA, 92182-4119, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - John Mark Wiginton
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Raul Bejarano-Romero
- San Diego State University, University of California-San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Interdisciplinary Research on Substance Use, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Dania Abu Baker
- San Diego State University, University of California-San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Interdisciplinary Research on Substance Use, San Diego, CA, USA
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Zhou S, Toska E, Langwenya N, Edun O, Cluver L, Knight L. Exploring Self-reported Adherence Measures to Screen for Elevated HIV Viral Load in Adolescents: A South African Cohort Study. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3537-3547. [PMID: 37067612 PMCID: PMC10589188 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
The timely identification of ART non-adherence among adolescents living with HIV presents a significant challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings where virologic monitoring is suboptimal. Using South African adolescent cohort data (N = 933, mean age 13.6 ± 2.89 years, 55.1% female, follow-up = 2014-2018), we examined the association between elevated viral load (VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL) and seven self-reported adherence measures on missed doses, and clinic appointments -with varying recall timeframes. The best performing measures, which were significantly associated with elevated viral load in covariate-adjusted models are: any missed dose -past 3 days (sensitivity = 91.6% [95%CI: 90.3-92.8], positive predictive value (PPV) = 78.8% [95%CI: 77.2-80.4]), -past week (sensitivity = 87% [95%CI: 85.4-88.6], PPV = 78.2% [95%CI: 76.5-79.9]), -past month (sensitivity = 79.5% [95%CI: 77.5-81.4], PPV = 78.2% [95%CI: 76.4-79.9]), any past-month days missed (sensitivity = 86.7% [95%CI: 85.1-88.3], PPV = 77.9% [95%CI:76.2-79.6]), and any missed clinic appointment (sensitivity = 88.3% [95%CI: 86.8-89.8], PPV = 78.4% [95%CI: 76.8-79.9]). Combining the three best performing measures missed dose -past 3 days, -past week, and any past-year missed clinic appointment increased sensitivity to 96.4% while maintaining a PPV of about 78%. The discriminatory power of simple and easy-to-administer self-reported adherence measures in detecting elevated viral load warrants consideration in resource-limited settings and may contribute to the aims of the new Global Alliance to End AIDS in children and adolescents by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyanai Zhou
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa.
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nontokozo Langwenya
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Olanrewaju Edun
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucia Knight
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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18
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Altamirano J, Odero IA, Omollo M, Awuonda E, Ondeng’e K, Kang JL, Behl R, Ndivo R, Baiocchi M, Barsosio HC, Sarnquist CC. Understanding ART Adherence among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Western Kenya: A Cross-Sectional Study of Barriers and Facilitators. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6922. [PMID: 37887660 PMCID: PMC10606388 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20206922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV remains a leading cause of death for adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa. This population has a high incidence of HIV and other comorbidities, such as experiencing violence, and low antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. To reach global HIV goals, data are needed on the specific adherence barriers for AGYW living with HIV, so interventions can be targeted effectively. METHODS Cross-sectional data were collected at urban and rural health facilities in and around Kisumu County, western Kenya, from January to June 2022, from AGYW 15-24 years of age who were living with HIV. Surveys included questions on intimate partner violence, mental health issues, food security, and orphanhood. Adherence was categorized using viral load testing where available and the Center for Adherence Support Evaluation (CASE) adherence index otherwise. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between potential explanatory variables and adherence. FINDINGS In total, 309 AGYW participated. AGYW with experiences of emotional violence (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.94, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.03-3.66), moderate or severe depression (OR = 3.19, 95% CI = 1.47-6.94), and/or substance use (OR = 2.71, 95% CI = 1.24-5.92) had significantly higher odds of poor adherence when compared to AGYW without these respective experiences. Physical and sexual violence, food insecurity, and orphanhood were not associated with poor adherence in this cohort. INTERPRETATION Elucidating the risk factors associated with poor adherence among AGYW living with HIV allows us to identify potential targets for future interventions to improve ART adherence and HIV care outcomes. Mental health and violence prevention interventions, including combination interventions, may prove to be promising approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Altamirano
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
| | - Isdorah A. Odero
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu 40100, Kenya; (I.A.O.); (M.O.); (E.A.); (K.O.); (R.N.); (H.C.B.)
| | - Mevis Omollo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu 40100, Kenya; (I.A.O.); (M.O.); (E.A.); (K.O.); (R.N.); (H.C.B.)
| | - Eucabeth Awuonda
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu 40100, Kenya; (I.A.O.); (M.O.); (E.A.); (K.O.); (R.N.); (H.C.B.)
| | - Ken Ondeng’e
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu 40100, Kenya; (I.A.O.); (M.O.); (E.A.); (K.O.); (R.N.); (H.C.B.)
| | - Jennifer L. Kang
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (J.L.K.); (R.B.); (C.C.S.)
| | - Rasika Behl
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (J.L.K.); (R.B.); (C.C.S.)
| | - Richard Ndivo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu 40100, Kenya; (I.A.O.); (M.O.); (E.A.); (K.O.); (R.N.); (H.C.B.)
| | - Michael Baiocchi
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
| | - Hellen C. Barsosio
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu 40100, Kenya; (I.A.O.); (M.O.); (E.A.); (K.O.); (R.N.); (H.C.B.)
| | - Clea C. Sarnquist
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (J.L.K.); (R.B.); (C.C.S.)
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Dufour I, Fougère Y, Goetghebuer T, Hainaut M, Mbiya B, Kakkar F, Yombi JC, Van der Linden D. Gen Z and HIV-Strategies for Optimizing the Care of the Next Generation of Adolescents Living with HIV. Viruses 2023; 15:2023. [PMID: 37896800 PMCID: PMC10611287 DOI: 10.3390/v15102023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of adolescents living with HIV represents a particular challenge in the global response to HIV. The challenges specific to this age group include difficulties engaging and maintaining them in care, challenges with transition to adult care, and limited therapeutic options for treatment-experienced patients, all of which have been jeopardized by the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper summarizes some of the challenges in managing adolescents living with HIV, as well as some of the most recent and innovative therapeutic approaches in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inès Dufour
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Yves Fougère
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada; (Y.F.); (F.K.)
- Centre d’Infectiologie Mère-Enfant (CIME), Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Tessa Goetghebuer
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint-Pierre, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (T.G.); (M.H.)
| | - Marc Hainaut
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint-Pierre, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (T.G.); (M.H.)
| | - Benoît Mbiya
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Mbujimayi, Mbujimayi 06201, Democratic Republic of the Congo;
- Sickle Cell Reference Center, Clinique Pédiatrique de Mbujimayi, Pediatrics Clinic of Mbujimayi, Mbujimayi 06201, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Fatima Kakkar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada; (Y.F.); (F.K.)
- Centre d’Infectiologie Mère-Enfant (CIME), Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Jean Cyr Yombi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium;
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1348 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Dimitri Van der Linden
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1348 Brussels, Belgium;
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Service of Specialized Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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Ramos NNV, Fronteira I, Martins MDRO. Comprehensive Knowledge of HIV and AIDS and Related Factors in Angolans Aged between 15 and 49 Years. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6816. [PMID: 37835086 PMCID: PMC10572943 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20196816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
A comprehensive knowledge of HIV and AIDS among men and women in Africa is reportedly low. To the best of our knowledge, no studies using any definition of comprehensive knowledge of HIV and AIDS have been conducted in Angola. To address this gap, we aimed to describe the comprehensive knowledge held by individuals aged between 15 and 49 years regarding HIV and AIDS and some associated factors, using the most recent Angolan demographic and health survey (DHS). Using an observational, cross-sectional design, we analyzed data collected from 19,785 individuals aged between 15 and 49 years for the 2016 DHS in Angola. We conducted a logistic regression analysis of descriptive and complex samples to examine the data and to unravel possible factors associated with having a comprehensive knowledge of HIV and AIDS. Almost half of the respondents (47.7%) had a general comprehensive knowledge of HIV and AIDS. Individuals who watched television (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.40; 95% CI: 2.11, 2.72) or read newspapers and magazines (aOR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.72, 2.30) more than once a week had higher odds of having a comprehensive knowledge of HIV and AIDS compared to those who did not. Similarly, having completed primary education and above (aOR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.67, 2.00) or living in urban areas (aOR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.34, 1.71) increased the likelihood of individuals having a comprehensive knowledge of HIV and AIDS compared to their counterparts. These results reflect inequalities that require further attention at either a research or a political level. Nevertheless, we consider that these results can assist decision-makers in advocating for continuous investment in HIV health literacy and in adapting global solutions to local Angolan contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neida Neto Vicente Ramos
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon, 1249-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Fronteira
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon, 1249-008 Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, National School of Public Health, NOVA University of Lisbon, 1249-008 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria do Rosário O. Martins
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon, 1249-008 Lisbon, Portugal
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Okegbe T, Williams J, Plourde KF, Oliver K, Ddamulira B, Caparrelli K. Impact of COVID-19 on HIV Adolescent Programming in 16 Countries With USAID-Supported PEPFAR Programs. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 93:261-271. [PMID: 36989134 PMCID: PMC10287048 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted access to critical health services, resulting in diminished gains in HIV epidemic control. This review assesses the magnitude of the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on HIV services for adolescents. METHODS PEPFAR Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting programmatic data were analyzed from across 16 USAID-supported adolescent care and treatment programs for fiscal year 2020 (FY20; October 2019-September 2020). Descriptive statistics were used to calculate absolute number and percent change between the pre-COVID-19 (Quarters 1-2; October 2019-March 2020) and COVID-19 periods (Quarters 3-4; April 2020-September 2020) for clinical cascade indicators. All analyses were conducted in Microsoft Excel. RESULTS The number of HIV tests conducted during COVID-19 decreased by 21.4% compared with pre-COVID-19, with a subsequent 28% decrease in adolescents identified living with HIV. The rate of proxy linkage to antiretroviral therapy increased between periods, from 86.9% to 90.4%. There was a 25.9% decrease in treatment initiations among adolescents during COVID-19. During FY20, viral load coverage rates for adolescents dropped from 81.6% in FY20Q1 to 76.5% in FY20Q4, whereas the rates of viral load suppression for adolescents increased from 76.1% in FY20Q1 to 80.5% in FY20Q4. CONCLUSION There was a substantial decrease in case-finding, treatment initiations, and viral load coverage rates for adolescents supported in USAID/PEPFAR programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional health systems adaptations and strategies are required to ensure adolescents have continued access to HIV services during pandemic disruptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tishina Okegbe
- GHTASC, Credence Management Solutions LLC, Supporting the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Office of HIV/AIDS, Washington, DC
| | - Jessica Williams
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | | | - Barbara Ddamulira
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; and
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22
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Njuguna I, John-Stewart G. Multilevel interventions for young people with HIV. Lancet HIV 2023; 10:e489-e490. [PMID: 37541704 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(23)00138-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Njuguna
- Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi 20723-00202, Kenya; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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23
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Byansi W, Nabunya P, Muwanga J, Mwebembezi A, Damulira C, Mukasa B, Zmachinski L, Nattabi J, Brathwaite R, Namuwonge F, Bahar OS, Neilands TB, Mellins CA, Ssewamala FM. The relationship between life satisfaction, personal health, quality of life, and medication adherence among adolescents living with HIV in southwestern Uganda. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 31:1177-1184. [PMID: 37576468 PMCID: PMC10414752 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-021-01632-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) are at high risk for adherence to antiretroviral (ART) treatment and poor health-seeking behaviors, both of which potentially compromise their quality of and satisfaction with life. This study, therefore, seeks to examine the relationship between physical health, pediatric quality of life, life satisfaction, and medication adherence among ALHIV in southwestern Uganda. Methods Baseline data from the Suubi+Adherence study, 2012-2018, that recruited 702 adolescents, aged 10-16 years, living with HIV in Uganda were analyzed. To account for overdispersion, negative binomial regression analyses were used to examine the impact of physical health, pediatric quality of life, and life satisfaction on self-reported medication adherence. We controlled for participants' socio-demographic factors. Results Results indicated that after adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, adolescents' reported satisfaction with life was associated with a decrease in the reported number of days missed taking medication by 41.2% (IRR (incidence risk ratio)=0.588; p (p-value)=0.014). On the other hand, the low level of pediatric quality of life was associated with a 5% increase in the reported number of days missed taking medication (IRR=1.055, p=0.044). Personal health was not statistically significant in the model. Conclusion Our study findings indicated that quality of life and life satisfaction are significantly associated with antiretroviral (ART) medication among ALHIV. Hence, strengthening existing support systems and creating additional support for optimal ART adherence and treatment outcomes for ALHIV in low-resource communities might be beneficial. Moreover, with the increasing HIV prevalence rates among adolescents, effective and comprehensive efforts that are responsive to the special needs of ALHIV must be developed to ensure optimal adherence to ART medication as it leads to low vertical infection and superinfection rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Byansi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Joelynn Muwanga
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | | | - Christopher Damulira
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Plot 23 Circular Rd, Masaka, Uganda
| | | | - Lily Zmachinski
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Plot 23 Circular Rd, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Rachel Brathwaite
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Plot 23 Circular Rd, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Claude A. Mellins
- Columbia University Medical Center, 630 West 168th Street New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
- Reach the Youth Uganda
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24
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Nutor JJ, Gyamerah AO, Alhassan RK, Duah HO, Thompson RGA, Wilson N, Harris O, Gutierrez J, Hoffmann TJ, Getahun M, Santos GM. Influence of depression and interpersonal support on adherence to antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:42. [PMID: 37386514 PMCID: PMC10308781 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00538-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor adherence and under-utilization of antiretroviral therapy (ART) services have been major setbacks to achieving 95-95-95 policy goals in Sub-Saharan Africa. Social support and mental health challenges may serve as barriers to accessing and adhering to ART but are under-studied in low-income countries. The purpose of this study was to examine the association of interpersonal support and depression scores with adherence to ART among persons living with HIV (PLWH) in the Volta region of Ghana. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 181 PLWH 18 years or older who receive care at an ART clinic between November 2021 and March 2022. The questionnaire included a 6-item simplified ART adherence scale, the 20-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the 12-item Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12 (ISEL-12). We first used a chi-squared or Fisher's exact test to assess the association between these and additional demographic variables with ART adherence status. We then built a stepwise multivariable logistic regression model to explain ART adherence. RESULTS ART adherence was 34%. The threshold for depression was met by 23% of participants, but it was not significantly associated with adherence in multivariate analysis(p = 0.25). High social support was reported by 48.1%, and associated with adherence (p = 0.033, aOR = 3.45, 95% CI = 1.09-5.88). Other factors associated with adherence included in the multivariable model included not disclosing HIV status (p = 0.044, aOR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.03-4.54) and not living in an urban area (p = 0.00037, aOR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.11-0.52). CONCLUSION Interpersonal support, rural residence, and not disclosing HIV status were independent predictors of adherence to ART in the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry John Nutor
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Akua O Gyamerah
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Kaba Alhassan
- Centre for Health Policy and Implementation Research, Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Henry Ofori Duah
- College of Nursing, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Rachel G A Thompson
- Language Center, College of Humanities, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Accra, Ghana
| | - Natalie Wilson
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Orlando Harris
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jose Gutierrez
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas J Hoffmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Office of Research, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Monica Getahun
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Glenn-Milo Santos
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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25
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Nabunya P, Samuel K, Ssewamala FM. The effect of family support on self-reported adherence to ART among adolescents perinatally infected with HIV in Uganda: A mediation analysis. J Adolesc 2023; 95:834-843. [PMID: 36810778 PMCID: PMC10257769 DOI: 10.1002/jad.12157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study examined the mechanisms through which family support affects self-reported adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adolescents perinatally infected with HIV in Uganda. METHODS Longitudinal data from 702 adolescent boys and girls (10-16 years) were analyzed. Structural equation models were conducted to assess the direct, indirect, and total effects of family support on adherence. RESULTS Results showed a significant indirect effect of family support on adherence (β = .112, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.052-0.173, p < .001). Specific indirect effects of family support through saving attitudes (β = .058, 95% CI: 0.008-0.108, p = .024), and communication with the guardian (β = .056, 95% CI: 0.012-0.100), p = .013), as well as the total effect of family support on adherence (β = .146 (95% CI: 0.032-0.259, p = .012), were statistically significant. Mediation contributed 76.7% of the total effects. CONCLUSION Findings support strategies to help promote family support and strengthen open communication between adolescents living with HIV and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kizito Samuel
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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26
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MacCarthy S, Mendoza-Graf A, Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Wagner Z, Saya U, Chemusto H, Mukasa B, Linnemayr S. A qualitative exploration of health-related present bias among HIV-positive adults in Uganda. AIDS Care 2023; 35:883-891. [PMID: 34802344 PMCID: PMC9123094 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.2004298] [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: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Decision-making errors such as present bias (PB) can have important consequences for health behaviors, but have been largely studied in the financial domain. We conducted a mixed-method study on PB in the context of ART adherence among clinic-enrolled adults in Uganda (n = 39). Specifically, we quantified PB by asking about preferences between medication available sooner to minimize headaches versus available later to cure headaches. We describe demographic similarities among PB participants and qualitatively explored how participants reflected on their PB (or absence thereof) in the context of health. Participants reporting PB were predominantly male, single/unmarried, older, had higher levels of education and income and more advanced HIV progression. Three common reasons for more present-biased choices provided were: (1) wanting to avoid pain, (2) wanting to return to work, and (3) fear of one's health worsening if s/he did not address their illness immediately. While PB in the financial domain often suggests that poorer individuals are more likely to prefer immediate rewards over their wealthier counterparts, our results suggest poor health is potentially a driving factor of PB. Further research is needed to build on these finding and inform how programs can frame key messages regarding ART adherence to patients displaying PB.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03494777.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Indiana University School of Public Health, 1025 E. 7th Street, Bloomington, IN
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, 525 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Uzaib Saya
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA
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27
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Brown MJ, Amoatika D, Kaur A, Addo PNO, Yoo-Jeong M. Psychosocial Protective and Risk Factors of Quality of Life Outcomes Among Older Adults Living With HIV. AIDS Behav 2023:10.1007/s10461-023-03989-2. [PMID: 36717423 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-03989-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
HIV continues to be a public health issue for older adults. Previous studies have examined predictors of quality of life (QoL) among people living with HIV (PLWH), but the majority have been in international settings and have not focused on older adults living with HIV (OALH). The aim of this study was to examine the associations between psychosocial protective and risk factors (resilience, internalized HIV-related stigma, and depression), and overall and domains (physical, psychological, independence, social, environmental, and spiritual) of QoL among OALH. Data were obtained from 156 OALH living in South Carolina. Resilience was positively associated with all QoL domains except the spiritual domain. Internalized HIV-related stigma was associated with all QoL domains except the psychological and environmental domains. Depression was associated with the overall QoL measure and all domains. Interventions aimed at increasing resilience, attenuating internalized HIV-related stigma and depressive symptoms may be warranted for OALH, which may improve overall and varying domains of QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique J Brown
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA. .,South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA. .,Rural and Minority Health Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, SC, Columbia, USA. .,Office for the Study on Aging, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, SC, Columbia, USA.
| | - Daniel Amoatika
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Amandeep Kaur
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Prince Nii Ossah Addo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Moka Yoo-Jeong
- School of Nursing, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, MA, Boston, USA
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28
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Baba H, Bouqdayr M, Saih A, Bensghir R, Ouladlahsen A, Sodqi M, Marih L, Zaidane I, Kettani A, Abidi O, Wakrim L. Association between Methylene-Tetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T Polymorphism and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infection in Morocco. Lab Med 2023; 54:23-29. [PMID: 36036632 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmac081] [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: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection varies substantially among individuals. One of the factors influencing viral infection is genetic variability. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism is a genetic factor that has been correlated with different types of pathologies, including HIV-1. The MTHFR gene encodes the MTHFR enzyme, an essential factor in the folate metabolic pathway and in maintaining circulating folate and methionine at constant levels, thus preventing the homocysteine accumulation. Several studies have shown the role of folate on CD4+ T lymphocyte count among HIV-1 subjects. In this case-control study we aimed to determine the association between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and HIV-1 infection susceptibility, AIDS development, and therapeutic outcome among Moroccans. The C677T polymorphism was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction followed by fragment length polymorphism digestion in 214 participants living with HIV-1 and 318 healthy controls. The results of the study revealed no statistically significant association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and HIV-1 infection (P > .05). After dividing HIV-1 subjects according to their AIDS status, no significant difference was observed between C677T polymorphism and AIDS development (P > .05). Furthermore, regarding the treatment response outcome, as measured by HIV-1 RNA viral load and CD4+ T cell counts, no statistically significant association was found with MTHFR C677T polymorphism. We conclude that, in the genetic context of the Moroccan population, MTHFR C677T polymorphism does not affect HIV-1 infection susceptibility, AIDS development, or response to treatment. However, more studies should be done to investigate both genetic and nutritional aspects for more conclusive results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanâ Baba
- Virology Unit, Immuno-virology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco.,Laboratory of Biology and Health, URAC 34, Hassan II University-Casablanca, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sik, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Meryem Bouqdayr
- Virology Unit, Immuno-virology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco.,Laboratory of Biology and Health, URAC 34, Hassan II University-Casablanca, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sik, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Asmae Saih
- Virology Unit, Immuno-virology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco.,Laboratory of Biology and Health, URAC 34, Hassan II University-Casablanca, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sik, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Rajaa Bensghir
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Ahd Ouladlahsen
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mustapha Sodqi
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Latifa Marih
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Imane Zaidane
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Anass Kettani
- Laboratory of Biology and Health, URAC 34, Hassan II University-Casablanca, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sik, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Omar Abidi
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics and Medical Genomics, Institut Supérieur des Professions Infirmières et Techniques de Santé (ISPITS) de Casablanca , Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Lahcen Wakrim
- Virology Unit, Immuno-virology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
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29
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Dietrich JJ, Jonas K, Cheyip M, Appollis TM, Ariyo O, Beauclair R, Lombard C, Gray GE, Mathews C. Examining the Relationship Between Psychosocial Factors with Knowledge of HIV-Positive Status and Antiretroviral Therapy Exposure Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women Living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:231-244. [PMID: 35841462 PMCID: PMC9841063 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03759-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) living with HIV have poor antiretroviral therapy (ART) outcomes. We examined the relationship between psychosocial factors with knowledge of HIV-positive status and antiretroviral therapy exposure among AGYW living with HIV in South Africa. Participants 15-24 years responded to a survey including socio-demographics, psychosocial factors, and HIV testing. Blood was collected to determine HIV status and ART exposure. Multivariable analyses were conducted using R. Of 568 participants with HIV, 356 had knowledge of their HIV-positive status. Social support from family [aOR 1.14 (95% CI 1.04-1.24)] or from a special person [aOR 1.12 (95% CI 1.02-1.23)] was associated with knowledge of HIV-positive status. Resilience [aOR 1.05 (95% CI 1.01-1.08)] was the only psychosocial factor associated with a higher odds of ART exposure. Social support and resilience may increase knowledge of HIV-positive status and ART exposure among South African AGYW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janan J. Dietrich
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kim Jonas
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mireille Cheyip
- Division of Global Health Protection, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Tracy McClinton Appollis
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Roxanne Beauclair
- The South African Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation (DST-NRF) Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Carl Lombard
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, University of Stellenbosch, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Glenda E. Gray
- Office of the President, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Catherine Mathews
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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30
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Mengesha MM, Teshome A, Ajema D, Tura AK, Hallström IK, Jerene D. The association between HIV diagnosis disclosure and adherence to anti-retroviral therapy among adolescents living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285571. [PMID: 37167342 PMCID: PMC10174542 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nine in ten of the world's 1.74 million adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (ALHIV) live in Sub-Saharan Africa. Suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and poor viral suppression are important problems among adolescents. To guide intervention efforts in this regard, this review presented pooled estimates on the prevalence of adherence and how it is affected by disclosure of HIV status among ALHIV in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS A comprehensive search in major databases (Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), PubMed, Ovid/MEDLINE, HINARI, and Google Scholar) with additional hand searches for grey literature was conducted to locate observational epidemiologic studies published in English up to November 12, 2022 with the following inclusion criteria: primary studies that reported disclosure of HIV status as an exposure variable, had positive adherence to ART as an outcome, and conducted among adolescents and children. The COVIDENCE software was used for a title/abstract screening, full-text screening, the JBI quality assessment checklist, and data extraction. Random effects model was used to pool estimates. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis were also conducted by age groups and type of adherence measures used. RESULTS This meta-analysis combines the effect estimates from 12 primary studies with 4422 participants. The prevalence of good adherence to ART was 73% (95% CI (confidence interval): 56 to 87; I2 = 98.63%, P = <0.001), and it was higher among adolescents who were aware of their HIV status, 77% (95% CI: 56 to 92; I2 = 98.34%, P = <0.001). Overall, knowledge of HIV status was associated with increased odds of adherence (odds ratio (OR) = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.21 to 2.94; I2 = 79.8%, P = <0.001). This was further supported in a subgroup analysis by age (seven studies, pooled OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.06 to 3.37; I2 = 81.3%, P = <0.0001) and whether primary studies controlled for confounding factors (six studies provided adjusted estimates, pooled OR = 2.61, 95% CI: 1.22 to 5.57; I2 = 88.1%, P = <0.001) confirmed this further. CONCLUSIONS Our meta-analysis and systematic review revealed that knowledge of one's HIV status was associated with adherence to ART, particularly among adolescents. The findings underscored the importance of encouraging disclosure in order to enhance adherence among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melkamu Merid Mengesha
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Awugchew Teshome
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Dessalegn Ajema
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Abera Kenay Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | | | - Degu Jerene
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Child and Family Health, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, Hague, The Netherlands
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31
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Hlophe LD, Tamuzi JL, Shumba CS, Nyasulu PS. Barriers and facilitators to anti-retroviral therapy adherence among adolescents aged 10 to 19 years living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: A mixed-methods systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0276411. [PMID: 37200399 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) significantly affects adolescents globally, with the sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) reporting a high burden of the disease. HIV testing, treatment, and retention to care are low among adolescents. We conducted a mixed-method systematic review to assess anti-retroviral therapy (ART) adherence; barriers and facilitators to ART adherence and ART outcomes among adolescents living with HIV and on ART in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS We conducted searches in four scientific databases for studies conducted between 2010 and March 2022 to identify relevant primary studies. Studies were screened against inclusion criteria and assessed for quality, and data was extracted. Meta-analysis of rates and odd ratios was used to plot the quantitative studies and meta-synthesis summarized the evidence from qualitative studies. RESULTS A total of 10 431 studies were identified and screened against the inclusion/ exclusion criteria. Sixty-six studies met the inclusion criteria (41 quantitative, 16 qualitative, and 9 mixed-methods study designs). Fifty-three thousand two hundred and seventeen (53 217) adolescents (52 319 in quantitative studies and 899 in qualitative studies) were included in the review. Thirteen support focused interventions for improved ART adherence were identified from quantitative studies. The plotted results from the meta-analysis found an ART adherence rate of 65% (95%CI 56-74), viral load suppression was 55% (95%CI 46-64), un-suppressed viral load rate of 41% (95%CI 32-50), and loss to follow up of 17% (95%CI 10-24) among adolescents. Meta-synthesis found six themes of barriers to ART (social, patient-based, economic, health system-based, therapy-based, and cultural barriers) in both the qualitative and quantitative studies, and three themes of facilitators to ART were also identified (social support, counselling, and ART education and secrecy or confidentiality) from qualitative studies. CONCLUSION ART adherence remains low among adolescents in SSA despite multiple interventions implemented to improve ART adherence. The low adherence rate may hinder the attainment of the UNAIDS 2030 targets. Additionally, various barriers to ART adherence due to lack of support have been reported among this age group. However, interventions aimed at improving social support, educating, and counselling adolescents may improve and sustain ART adherence. TRIAL REGISTRATION Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021284891.
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Affiliation(s)
- Londiwe D Hlophe
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eswatini, Mbabane, Kingdom of Eswatini
| | - Jacques L Tamuzi
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Peter S Nyasulu
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Gittings L, Colvin C, Hodes R. Traditional and biomedical health practices of adolescent boys and young men living with perinatally-acquired HIV in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2205917. [PMID: 37156226 PMCID: PMC10660542 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2205917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Men are less vulnerable to HIV acquisition than women, but have poorer HIV-related health outcomes. They access HIV services less, and are more likely to die on antiretroviral therapy. The adolescent epidemic presents further challenges, and AIDS-related illness is the leading cause of death among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. We explored the health practices of adolescent boys and young men (aged 13-22) living with perinatally-acquired HIV and the processes through which these practices are formed and sustained. We engaged health-focused life history narratives (n = 35), semi-structured interviews (n = 32) and analysis of health facility files (n = 41), alongside semi-structured interviews with traditional and biomedical health practitioners (n = 14) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Participants did not access traditional products and services for HIV, a finding that deviates from much of the literature. Findings suggest that health practices are mediated not only by gender and culture, but also childhood experiences of growing up deeply embedded in the biomedical health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Gittings
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christopher Colvin
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Rebecca Hodes
- Centre for Sexualities, AIDS & Gender, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Historical and Heritage Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Lahai M, Theobald S, Wurie HR, Lakoh S, Erah PO, Samai M, Raven J. Factors influencing adherence to antiretroviral therapy from the experience of people living with HIV and their healthcare providers in Sierra Leone: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1327. [PMID: 36348488 PMCID: PMC9644013 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08606-x] [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: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the primary mode of treatment for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It slows disease progression and reduces the spread of infection. HIV treatment is also known to require a high level of adherence of over 90% to achieve good treatment outcomes and viral load suppression. In Sierra Leone, about 70% of People Living with HIV (PLHIV) are non-adherent in their first year of treatment. Understanding the reasons behind this high rate of non-adherence from the perspectives of both PLHIV and health workers is critical for developing strategies to improve adherence. This qualitative study is rooted in the field of public health services. It identifies the barriers and facilitators influencing adherence to antiretroviral treatment in Sierra Leone. METHODS: A qualitative study design using in-depth interviews of four healthcare workers and 16 PLHIV in two districts in Sierra Leone- Freetown and Bo. The interviews were analyzed using a grounded theory approach to identify emerging themes from the data. RESULTS The study identified several facilitators and barriers to ART adherence at the personal, community, and health system levels. The facilitators included perceived benefits of ART, family support, having an informal caregiver, receiving free ART medicines, and belonging to peer support groups. The identified barriers were stigma and discrimination, frequency of medication, use of traditional medicine, lack of money for food and transport, work barriers, inadequate medicines and test kits, limited health workers, and long distances to clinics. CONCLUSIONS Our study emphasized the need for implementing behavioural change communication programmes and activities to reduce stigma and discrimination in the community. Knowledge of the facilitators and barriers to antiretroviral therapy could provide relevant information for more responsive and equitable programmes supporting adherence implementation in low- and middle-income countries. This study also identifies the vital need for community integration of HIV treatment services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lahai
- grid.442296.f0000 0001 2290 9707Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, 00232 Sierra Leone
| | - Sally Theobald
- grid.48004.380000 0004 1936 9764Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Haja R. Wurie
- grid.442296.f0000 0001 2290 9707College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Sulaiman Lakoh
- grid.442296.f0000 0001 2290 9707College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Patrick O. Erah
- grid.413068.80000 0001 2218 219XFaculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - Mohamed Samai
- grid.442296.f0000 0001 2290 9707College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Joanna Raven
- grid.48004.380000 0004 1936 9764Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Dvalishvili D, Ssewamala FM, Nabunya P, Sensoy Bahar O, Kizito S, Namuwonge F, Namatovu P. Impact of Family-Based Economic Empowerment Intervention, Suubi+Adherence (2012-2018) on Multidimensional Poverty for Adolescents Living with HIV (ALWHIV) in Uganda. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14326. [PMID: 36361203 PMCID: PMC9657112 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Children growing up in poverty are disproportionately affected by diseases, including HIV. In this study, we use data from Suubi+Adherence, a longitudinal randomized control trial (2012-2018) with 702 adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV), to examine the effectiveness of a family-based multifaceted economic empowerment (EE) intervention in addressing economic instability and multidimensional poverty among ALWHIV in Southern Uganda. We constructed a Multidimensional Poverty Index of individual and household indicators, including health, assets, housing and family dynamics. We computed the proportion of multidimensionally poor children (H), estimated poverty intensity (A) and adjusted headcount ratio (M0). Using repeated measures at five-time points (baseline, years 1, 2, 3 and 4-post baseline) across two study arms: treatment (receiving the EE intervention) vs. control arm (not receiving EE), we find that both the incidence and proportion of multidimensional poverty decreased in the treatment arm vs. the control arm. Given that there is a direct link between economic instability and poor health outcomes, these findings are informative. They point to the potential for family EE interventions to decrease multidimensional poverty among vulnerable children, including ALWHIV, impacting their overall wellbeing and ability to meet their treatment needs and improve HIV care continuum outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fred. M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Phionah Namatovu
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Uganda Office, Masaka 961105, Uganda
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Li T, Qu H, Ding H, Deng H, Chen Y. Profiling of proteome changes in plasma of HIV-infected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy. Proteomics Clin Appl 2022; 16:e2100099. [PMID: 35920599 DOI: 10.1002/prca.202100099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Antiretroviral therapy (ART) prevents human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 onward transmission and disease progression, leading to excellent prognosis in people living with HIV-1 (PWH). However, side effects, complications, and impaired immune reconstitution persist in some patients treated with ART. We aimed to profile proteome changes in plasma before and after ART to identify the molecular pathways altered by ART. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Quantitative proteomics analysis based on tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling was used to profile proteome changes of paired plasma samples from HIV-1 patients before receiving ART and after ART treatment. RESULTS A total of 1398 protein groups (PGs) were identified, in which 18 proteins were downregulated and 50 were upregulated in plasma from ART treated patients. Based on Ingenuity Pathway analysis (IPA), gap junction signaling and actin cytoskeleton signaling were enriched among upregulated proteins, while downregulated proteins were mainly participated in IL-15 signaling pathway. Patients with the low level of CSF1R and the high levels of MINPP1 and TGM3 showed better CD4+ T-cell recovery. CONCLUSIONS The present study provided plasma proteome changes after ART to elucidate the underlying mechanistic pathways in response to ART, and also identified potential targets to prompt immune reconstitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Qu
- Department of Obstetric & Gynecology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haibo Ding
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Haiteng Deng
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuling Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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36
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Orth Z, Van Wyk B. Rethinking mental health wellness among adolescents living with HIV in the African context: An integrative review of mental wellness components. Front Psychol 2022; 13:955869. [PMID: 36204730 PMCID: PMC9530459 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.955869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) are considered to be at heightened risk for developing mental health problems in comparison to their peers due to the burden of living with a stigmatized condition and managing a chronic condition. Poorer mental health outcomes among ALHIV are associated with lower rates of adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART). It is necessary to improve mental wellness among ALHIV as this acts as a buffer against developing mental health problems which, if left untreated can evolve into mental health disorders. Research on mental wellness concepts among ALHIV is underdeveloped which is associated with a lack of appropriate measures of mental wellness. We conducted an integrative review to conceptualize mental wellness and consider the critical components for measuring mental wellness in ALHIV. Method An integrative review of published literature focusing on mental wellness of ALHIV in the African context was conducted. The process was guided by the PRISMA operational steps. As part of our problem identification phase, we drew on findings from a previous systematic review of mental wellness instruments and a qualitative photovoice study on exploring the experiences of ALHIV, to develop an initial framework of 13 mental wellness concepts and behaviors which informed the search strategy. Results The review included 17 articles from which we identified six mental wellness concepts: Connectedness, Sense of Coherence (SOC), Self-esteem, Self-acceptance, Hope for the Future and Spirituality as well as six behaviors facilitating mental wellness: Coping, Resilience, Purpose in Life (goals), Self-efficacy, Adherence Self-efficacy, and Leisure Activities. All of these concepts and behaviors have been noted in our previous research (systematic review and qualitative work), with the exception of adherence self-efficacy. Based on the findings from this review and our previous work, we adapted the Salutogenic Model of Health developed by Antonovsky in 1987, to propose a Salutogenic Model of Mental Wellness (SMoMW) for ALHIV in the African context. This SMoMW may be used to develop an age and culturally appropriate measure of mental wellness for ALHIV. Conclusion The findings from this review used to conceptualize mental wellness among ALHIV which can be used to develop a measurement of mental wellness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaida Orth
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Johnson KJ, Bahar OS, Nattabi J, Migadde H, Ssentumbwe V, Damulira C, Kivumbi A, Niyonzima N, Ssewamala FM. Pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer in an HIV-infected rural sub-Saharan African population. AIDS Care 2022; 34:1111-1117. [PMID: 34670451 PMCID: PMC9021330 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1990201] [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: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Youth living with HIV (YLWHIV) have an increased cancer risk. Our objective is to describe the prevalence of medical record (MR) reported suspected cancers in a contemporary cohort of YLWHIV in Uganda that was assembled through MR reviews of patients 10 to 24 years old across 35 Ugandan HIV care health facilities. Clinical data were abstracted to identify suspected cancer cases and information about HIV care. Among 3728 YLWHIV, we identified eight suspected cancer cases. The most common suspected types were Kaposi sarcoma (n=4) followed by lymphoma (n=3). Challenges encountered in data abstraction were missing data for several variables and confirmatory cancer diagnostic information. In follow-up of suspected cases referred for diagnosis at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), none had diagnosis records in UCI files. In addition, ∼18% of patients (n=686) were lost-to-follow-up (LTF) defined as not having returned to the clinic in ≥183 days and three patients died from presumed Kaposi sarcoma. Although our results suggest that cancer is rare in YLWHIV, the possibility that the cancer burden is higher cannot be excluded due to incomplete information in MRs and high LTF rates. Further, our study raises concern that patients referred for diagnosis are not accessing potential life-saving care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Herbert Migadde
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Vicent Ssentumbwe
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | | | - Apollo Kivumbi
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka, Uganda
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Lowenthal ED, Ohrenshall R, Moshashane N, Bula B, Chapman J, Marukutira T, Tshume O, Gross R, Mphele S. Reasons for discordance between antiretroviral adherence measures in adolescents. AIDS Care 2022; 34:1135-1143. [PMID: 34424796 PMCID: PMC8863993 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1968998] [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: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents with suboptimal medication taking may deceive caregivers about non-adherence. We conducted a 5-year longitudinal study of adolescents monitored simultaneously with both easily manipulated (e.g., self-report) and hard to manipulate (e.g., microelectronic data) strategies. Adolescents with repeatedly high adherence on the former and low adherence on the latter were invited along with their parental figures ("parents") to participate. We conducted focus groups and semi-structured interviews, separately for adolescents and parents, to elucidate drivers of discordant measures. Forty-seven adolescents and 26 parents participated in focus groups and 4 adolescents were interviewed. Adolescents described hiding pills, discarding pills, and lying. Their motivations included fear of disappointing those who care about them, desire to avoid admonishment by parents and clinic staff, and desire to avoid remedial adherence counseling. Both adolescents and parents considered negative feedback for prior poor adherence to be key motivation to hide current poor adherence from clinic staff. Providing positive feedback for truth-telling, rather than for "evidence" of excellent adherence, might help adolescent patients and their parents to develop stronger treatment alliances with each other and with clinic staff. Such alliances would allow adherence interventions to be better targeted and more fruitful in increasing adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth D Lowenthal
- Department of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Global Health Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Rachel Ohrenshall
- Department of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Neo Moshashane
- Department of Psychology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Boineelo Bula
- Department of Psychology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Jennifer Chapman
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Global Health Center, Philadelphia, 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
| | - Robert Gross
- Departments of Medicine (Infectious Diseases) and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Seipone Mphele
- Department of Psychology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
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Jaafari Z, McFarland W, Eybpoosh S, Tabatabaei SVA, Bafti MS, Ranjbar E, Sharifi H. Barriers and facilitators of access to HIV prevention, care, and treatment services among people living with HIV in Kerman, Iran: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1097. [PMID: 36038874 PMCID: PMC9422119 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08483-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Low access to HIV prevention, care, and treatment services among people living with HIV (PLWH) is a barrier to the control of the epidemic worldwide. The present study aimed to assess the barriers and facilitators to HIV services among PLWH in Kerman, Iran. Methods In this qualitative study, a convenience sample of 25 PLWH who had received HIV prevention, treatment, or care services, and six PLWH who had not yet received services were recruited between August-October 2020. Data were collected using a semi-structured, face-to-face interview. Data were examined by inductive content analysis using MAXQDA 10 software. Results Nine categories of facilitators and 11 categories of barriers to HIV services were identified. Facilitating factors included: maintaining health status, feeling scared, trust in the health system, how they were treated by service providers, provision of suitable hours by the service provider center, changing attitudes towards HIV in society, acceptance of the disease by the patient's family, hope for the future and feeling the need for consulting services. Barriers included financial problems, side effects and belief in efficacy, distance and transportation problems, fear of being recognized, stigma towards PLWH, organization of services, improper treatment by service providers, unsuitable hours by the service provider center, lack of trust in the health system, lack of family support, and inadequate or low-quality service. Conclusion Many facilitators and barriers to HIV prevention, treatment, and care are amenable to change and better management by healthcare and service providers. Addressing these factors is likely to increase the willingness to use services by those who have never previously accessed them. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-08483-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Jaafari
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Willi McFarland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sana Eybpoosh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Vahid Ahmadi Tabatabaei
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Ebrahim Ranjbar
- Behavioral Disease Counseling Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Akankunda S, Nambi Najjuma J, Tayebwa S, Byamugisha B, Ariho S, Bahati R. The Role of Mass Media Campaigns in Improving Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Among Adolescents Living with HIV in Southwestern Uganda. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:397-407. [PMID: 36039117 PMCID: PMC9419725 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s375789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Akankunda
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Sandra Tayebwa
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Benjamen Byamugisha
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Sabastian Ariho
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Ronald Bahati
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
- Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Correspondence: Ronald Bahati, Bishop Stuart University, Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, P. o Box 09, Mbarara City, Uganda, Tel +256701512551, Email
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Revegue MHDT, Jesson J, Dago-Akribi HA, Dahourou D, Ogbo P, Moh C, Amoussou-Bouah U, N’Gbeche MS, Eboua FT, Kouassi EM, Kouadio K, Cacou MC, Horo A, Msellati P, Sturm G, Leroy V. [Sexual and reproductive health of adolescents living with HIV in pediatric care programs in Abidjan : Structured provision of care and perceptions of health care workers in 2019]. Rev Epidemiol Sante Publique 2022; 70:163-176. [PMID: 35752510 PMCID: PMC9926011 DOI: 10.1016/j.respe.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The majority of adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) reside in sub-Saharan Africa, with sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs to be met. The health care facilities and professionals involved have a major role to assume in the quality of SRH services offered to these teenagers. OBJECTIVE To investigate the SRH services offered to ALHIV subjects in pediatric facilities in Abidjan, Ivory-Coast. METHODS In 2019 we conducted an exploratory cross-sectional study using qualitative and quantitative methods in three pediatric facilities caring for ALHIV subjects (CIRBA, CTAP and CePReF) and participating in the IeDEA (International epidemiologic databases to Evaluate AIDS project) in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. This study included: (1) an inventory of SRH services, using a questionnaire and direct observation, describing their adaptation to the teenagers' needs and their inclusion in provision of care; (2 an assessment by means of semi-structured interviews of 14 health professionals' perceptions of the SRH needs of the ALHIV subjects with whom they worked. Quantitative data were expressed in percentages and qualitative data from the interviews were analyzed through inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS The care provided in the three facilities was poorly adapted to the teenagers' needs. Few SRH services were effectively provided to the ALHIV subjects in the different centers. The services essentially consisted in condom distribution and organization of SRH-based focus groups. Exceptionally, hormonal contraception was offered to teenage girls. Barriers to the services were largely due to poorly equipped facilities, particularly in terms of SRH offer, health professionals' experience, and support provided for ALHIV subjects and their parents. The health professionals were desirous of SRH skill-building programs enabling them to deliver optimal, adequately contextualized SRH services to the teenagers. CONCLUSIONS In pediatric programs addressed to ALHIV subjects in three Abidjan facilities, the teenagers' SRH needs remain unmet. It is urgently necessary to strengthen the health facilities by means of improved equipment, enhanced awareness of teenagers' needs, and training programs enabling the health professionals to provide more adapted sexual and reproductive health services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J. Jesson
- Inserm, Université de Toulouse 3, CERPOP, Toulouse, France
| | - H. Aka Dago-Akribi
- Département de psychologie, Université de Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - D.L. Dahourou
- Département biomédical et de santé publique, Institut de recherche en sciences de la santé (IRSS/CNRST), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso,Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - P. Ogbo
- Centre intégré de recherches biocliniques, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - C. Moh
- Département de psychologie, Université de Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire,Programme PACCI, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | | | - M-S. N’Gbeche
- Centre de prise en charge, de recherche et de formation, CePReF, Aconda, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - F. Tanoh Eboua
- Department de pédiatrie, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Yopougon, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - E. Messou Kouassi
- Centre de prise en charge, de recherche et de formation, CePReF, Aconda, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - K. Kouadio
- Centre intégré de recherches biocliniques, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - M-C. Cacou
- Département de psychologie, Université de Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - A. Horo
- Service de gynécologie obstétrique, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Yopougon, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - P. Msellati
- Programme PACCI, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire,UMI TransVIHMI, Institut de recherche pour le développement, Montpellier, France
| | - G. Sturm
- Laboratoire cliniques psychopathologique et interculturelle EA4591, Université de Toulouse 2, Toulouse, France,Service universitaire de psychiatrie de l’enfant et de l’adolescent (SUPEA), CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - V. Leroy
- Inserm, Université de Toulouse 3, CERPOP, Toulouse, France
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DeAtley T, Harrison A, Mtukushe B, Maughan-Brown B, Muloiwa R, Hoare J, Galárraga O, Kuo C. Conditional Economic Incentives for HIV Treatment Adherence: Aligning Adolescent Developmental Hallmarks with Behavioral Economic Theory to Improve HIV Treatment Adherence. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:272-277. [PMID: 35797651 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescent-tailored antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence interventions take place within the context of unique developmental stage. Suboptimal ART adherence among adolescents living with HIV in South Africa underscores that interventions are urgently needed to improve adherence. We conducted semistructured in-depth interviews with 35 adolescents aged 10-19 years living with HIV. In addition, 14 clinicians and 35 caregivers were interviewed to provide a diverse perspective on barriers and facilitators of medication adherence for adolescents living with HIV (ALWH). Thematic coding was utilized for this analysis. Our main findings were organized by following a priori themes: (1) acceptability of conditional economic incentives (CEIs) as an adherence intervention strategy for adolescents, (2) predicted behavioral impacts, and the (3) durability of CEIs to ensure medication adherence for adolescents in the long term. Subthemes that emerged included CEIs as tool to overcome competing demands, increasing intrinsic motivation and orientation toward the future, and optimal timing of the intervention. Exposure to a CEI intervention during early adolescence (ages 10-13) may be a particularly helpful intervention as CEIs may have long-lasting effects given that habit-formation behavior is developed during early adolescence. There is little consensus on effect duration from the perspective of adolescents, clinicians, and caregivers. Future studies should continue to explore the impact of CEIs for long-term ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa DeAtley
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Abigail Harrison
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Bulelwa Mtukushe
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brendan Maughan-Brown
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rudzani Muloiwa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jackie Hoare
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Peninsula Medical School, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Caroline Kuo
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Gittings L, Medley S, Logie CH, Ralayo N, Cluver L, Petersen N, Chen-Charles J, Toska E. Art-based reflections from 12 years of adolescent health and development-related research in South Africa. Health Promot Int 2022; 37:ii83-ii96. [PMID: 35748288 PMCID: PMC9226653 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper presents empirical and methodological findings from an art-based, participatory process with a group (n = 16) of adolescent and young advisors in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. In a weekend workshop, participants reflected on their participation in 12 years of health and development-related research through theatre, song, visual methodologies and semi-structured interviews. Empirical findings suggest that participants interpreted the group research encounter as a site of empowerment, social support and as a socio-political endeavour. Through song, theatre and a mural illustration, they demonstrated that they value 'unity' in research, with the aim of ameliorating the conditions of adolescents and young people in other parts of South Africa and the continent. Methodological findings document how participants deployed art-based approaches from South Africa's powerful history of activism, including the struggle against apartheid, the fight for anti-retroviral therapy and more recent social movements towards decolonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Gittings
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, 12 University Avenue South, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Sally Medley
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER, UK
| | - Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1V4, Canada
- Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, 76 Grenville Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 1N8, Canada
| | - Nokubonga Ralayo
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, 12 University Avenue South, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, J-Block, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Nabeel Petersen
- INTERFER, 151 Main Rd. Plumstead, Cape Town, 7801, South Africa
| | - Jenny Chen-Charles
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, 12 University Avenue South, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER, UK
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Jackson C, Rehman AM, McHugh G, Gonzalez-Martinez C, Ngwira LG, Bandason T, Mujuru H, Odland JO, Corbett EL, Ferrand RA, Simms V. Risk factors for sustained virological non-suppression among children and adolescents living with HIV in Zimbabwe and Malawi: a secondary data analysis. BMC Pediatr 2022; 22:340. [PMID: 35690762 PMCID: PMC9188224 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-022-03400-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated risk factors for sustained virological non-suppression (viral load ≥ 1000 copies/ml on two tests 48 weeks apart) among children and adolescents accessing HIV care in public sector clinics in Harare, Zimbabwe and Blantyre, Malawi. METHODS Participants were enrolled between 2016 and 2019, were aged 6-19 years, living with HIV, had chronic lung disease (FEV z-score < -1) and had taken antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least six months. We used multivariate logistic regression to identify risk factors for virological non-suppression after 48 weeks, among participants who were non-suppressed at enrolment. RESULTS At enrolment 258 participants (64.6%) were on first-line ART and 152/347 (43.8%) had virological non-suppression. After 48 weeks 114/313 (36.4%) were non-suppressed. Participants non-suppressed at baseline had almost ten times higher odds of non-suppression at follow-up (OR = 9.9, 95%CI 5.3-18.4, p < 0.001). Of those who were non-suppressed at enrolment, 87/136 (64.0%) were still non-suppressed at 48 weeks. Among this group non-suppression at 48 weeks was associated with not switching ART regimen (adjusted OR = 5.55; 95%CI 1.41-21.83); p = 0.014) and with older age. Twelve participants switched regimen in Zimbabwe and none in Malawi. CONCLUSIONS Viral non-suppression was high among this group and many with high viral load were not switched to a new regimen, resulting in continued non-suppression after 48 weeks. Further research could determine whether improved adherence counselling and training clinicians on regimen switches can improve viral suppression rates in this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION Secondary cohort analysis of data from BREATHE trial (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02426112 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christi Jackson
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Andrea M Rehman
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Grace McHugh
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Lucky G Ngwira
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hilda Mujuru
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jon O Odland
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of General Hygiene I.M. Sechenov First, Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Elizabeth L Corbett
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Rashida A Ferrand
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Victoria Simms
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
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45
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Okonji EF, Wyk BV, Mukumbang FC. Applying the biopsychosocial model to unpack a psychosocial support intervention designed to improve antiretroviral treatment outcomes for adolescents in South Africa. Pan Afr Med J 2022; 41:166. [PMID: 35655671 PMCID: PMC9120740 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2022.41.166.31985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescents (10 to 19 years) living with HIV (ALHIV) experience disproportionately poor adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) compared to other age groups. Several barriers, including psychosocial challenges, contribute to this observation. Psychosocial support (PSS) interventions show promising results as a strategy to deal with the biological and psychosocial challenges faced by ALHIV. However, there is dearth of information on how psychosocial support interventions designed to improve treatment adherence and retention in care among ALHIV are effective. In this commentary, we used the biopsychosocial model to formulate hypotheses on how the components of a PSS intervention could improve adherence and retention in ART care. Psychological wellbeing, coping strategies, social support, self-efficacy, and disclosure are key components in the intervention designed to improve ART adherence and retention in care. The management of ALHIV for improved ART adherence and retention requires recognising and addressing the complex biological, psychological and social issues peculiar to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emeka Francis Okonji
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, P Bag X17, Bellville, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Brian Van Wyk
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, P Bag X17, Bellville, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Ferdinand Che Mukumbang
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, P Bag X17, Bellville, Cape Town 7535, South Africa.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United State of America
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46
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Villiera JB, Katsabola H, Bvumbwe M, Mhango J, Khosa J, Silverstein A, Nyondo-Mipando AL. Factors associated with antiretroviral therapy adherence among adolescents living with HIV in the era of isoniazid preventive therapy as part of HIV care. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000418. [PMID: 36962329 PMCID: PMC10022349 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
High levels of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) are essential to promoting viral suppression and consequential good treatment outcomes. Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa are less adherent to ART compared to adults, leading to lower rates of viral suppression and immunological recovery. We conducted a mixed-method study utilizing a convergent parallel approach to explore factors associated with ART adherence among ALHIV in the era of isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) as part of HIV care. The quantitative data were collected from patient records from the period between 1 February 2017 and 31 January 2018 (6 months before and after IPT introduction), while qualitative data was collected from purposively selected patients and healthcare workers by in-depth interviews through a pretested interview guide. A total of 385 patient records (age 10-19 years) were analyzed in the two time periods, while 16 ALHIV (age 10-19 years) and three healthcare workers directly involved in adolescent care were interviewed. Quantitative data utilized logistic regression to measure the strength of association between IPT addition and ART adherence, whereas, qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. The mean age of participants in the quantitative section was 14.3 years (SD 2.7) and 178 were females, while the median age for adolescents interviewed was 14 (IQR 12-17) and 8 were females. Overall, we found an interaction of factors that influenced ART adherence. Added pill burden, on its own, did not affect ART adherence. Commonly reported factors that led to poor adherence were lack of status disclosure within the family, school pressure, and inadequate support from guardians and parents. According to retrospective patient records, complex ART regimens also worsened adherence (p = 0.0462). ART regimen was independently associated with adherence (OR 2.11 95% CI 0.97-4.53). Being on ART for a longer duration, enrolment into teen clubs, clinical psychosocial support, and self-reinforcement techniques were suggested to improve ART adherence. The interplay of multiple factors leads to poor rates of adherence. The introduction of IPT to ART packages may not independently affect ART adherence. Readily available psychosocial services and the presence of peer and guardian support is critical to optimal ART adherence. There is a need for ART centers that provide HIV care to adolescents to consider integrating psychosocial and other youth-friendly services into day-to-day clinic operations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hilary Katsabola
- Baylor College of Medicine Children’s Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Menard Bvumbwe
- Baylor College of Medicine Children’s Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Joseph Mhango
- Baylor College of Medicine Children’s Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Justice Khosa
- St John of God Hospitaller Services, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Alinane Linda Nyondo-Mipando
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
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47
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Amha H, Denekew B, Asnakew S. Depressive symptoms and associated factors among adults attending antiretroviral therapy clinic in Debre Markos comprehensive specialized hospital, Amhara, Ethiopia. SAGE Open Med 2022; 10:20503121221100992. [PMID: 35646359 PMCID: PMC9134454 DOI: 10.1177/20503121221100992] [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: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of depressive symptoms among adults attending anti-retroviral therapy follow up at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Methods Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted, and a systematic sampling technique was used to select the 266 participants. Depressive symptoms were assessed by using patient health questionnaire 9. A binary logistic regression analysis with an odds ratio and a 95% confidence interval was used to assess the strength of associations in SPSS version 20 and a p-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results In this study, the prevalence of depressive symptoms among HIV-positive individuals was 39.1% with 95% confidence interval (33.7%-45.3%). Multivariable analysis showed that participants who had age group > 40 (adjusted odds ratio = 5.26, 95% confidence interval (2.24-12.35)), presence of perceived stigma and discrimination (adjusted odds ratio = 7.5, 95% confidence interval = (3.77-14.9)), poor medication adherence (adjusted odds ratio = 6.05, 95% confidence interval = (2.86-12.80)), and poor social support (adjusted odds ratio = 2.53, 95% confidence interval = (1.25-5.12)) were significantly associated with depression. Conclusion The prevalence of depressive symptoms in this study was found to be significantly high. Age > 40 years old, the presence of perceived stigma and discrimination, poor medication adherence, and a lack of social support were found to be associated factors of depressive symptoms. It would be better for clinicians to give special emphasis to those patients who were stigmatized, who had compliance problems, and poor social support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haile Amha
- Department of Nursing, College of
Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Bethlehem Denekew
- Department of Nursing, College of
Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Sintayehu Asnakew
- Department of Psychiatry, College of
Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
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48
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Okonji EF, Wyk BV, Mukumbang FC. Two-year retention in care for adolescents on antiretroviral therapy in Ehlanzeni district, South Africa: a baseline cohort analysis. AIDS Care 2022; 35:374-384. [PMID: 35357245 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2057409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) struggle to remain engaged in HIV-related care and adhere to antiretroviral treatment (ART) due to a myriad of physical, psychological and cognitive-developmental challenges. We report on the profile of ALHIV aged 10-19 years on ART and the clinical factors associated with their retention in care. A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted with 16,108 ALHIV, aged 10-19 years, who were enrolled in 136 ART clinics in the Ehlanzeni district. Anonymised data were obtained from electronic medical records (Tier.net). Trends in retention in care among adolescents on ART was described using Kaplan-Meier survival estimates. Cox proportional analysis was performed to identify factors associated with retention in care over 2 years. More than half (53%) were females, and median duration on ART was 8 months. Retention in care among adolescents at months 6, 12, 18 and 24 was 90.5%, 85.4%, 80.8% and 76.2%, respectively. After controlling for confounders, risk of dying or lost to follow up increased for female adolescents (aHR = 1.28, 95% CI 1.10-1.49); being initiated on ART while pregnant (aHR = 2.72, 95% CI 1.99-3.69); history of TB infection (aHR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.10-2.65); and started ART at age 10-14 years (aHR = 2.45, 95% CI 1.96-3.05), and 15-19 years (aHR = 9.67, 95% CI 7.25-12.89). Retention in care among adolescents on ART over two-year period was considerably lower than the UNAIDS 2030 target of 95%. Of particular concern for intervention is the lower rates of retention in care among females and pregnant adolescents and starting ART between the ages of 10 and 19 years. Family or caregivers and peer support groups centred interventions designed to promote early initiation and retention in care through early case identification are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emeka F Okonji
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brian Van Wyk
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ferdinand C Mukumbang
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of global Health, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Jesson J, Crichton S, Quartagno M, Yotebieng M, Abrams EJ, Chokephaibulkit K, Le Coeur S, Aké‐Assi M, Patel K, Pinto J, Paul M, Vreeman R, Davies M, Ben‐Farhat J, Van Dyke R, Judd A, Mofenson L, Vicari M, Seage G, Bekker L, Essajee S, Gibb D, Penazzato M, Collins IJ, Wools‐Kaloustian K, Slogrove A, Powis K, Williams P, Matshaba M, Thahane L, Nyasulu P, Lukhele B, Mwita L, Kekitiinwa‐Rukyalekere A, Wanless S, Goetghebuer T, Thorne C, Warszawski J, Galli L, van Rossum AM, Giaquinto C, Marczynska M, Marques L, Prata F, Ene L, Okhonskaya L, Navarro M, Frick A, Naver L, Kahlert C, Volokha A, Chappell E, Pape JW, Rouzier V, Marcelin A, Succi R, Sohn AH, Kariminia A, Edmonds A, Lelo P, Lyamuya R, Ogalo EA, Odhiambo FA, Haas AD, Bolton C, Muhairwe J, Tweya H, Sylla M, D'Almeida M, Renner L, Abzug MJ, Oleske J, Purswani M, Teasdale C, Nuwagaba‐Biribonwoha H, Goodall R, Leroy V. Growth and CD4 patterns of adolescents living with perinatally acquired HIV worldwide, a CIPHER cohort collaboration analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25871. [PMID: 35255197 PMCID: PMC8901148 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents living with HIV are subject to multiple co-morbidities, including growth retardation and immunodeficiency. We describe growth and CD4 evolution during adolescence using data from the Collaborative Initiative for Paediatric HIV Education and Research (CIPHER) global project. METHODS Data were collected between 1994 and 2015 from 11 CIPHER networks worldwide. Adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV infection (APH) who initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) before age 10 years, with at least one height or CD4 count measurement while aged 10-17 years, were included. Growth was measured using height-for-age Z-scores (HAZ, stunting if <-2 SD, WHO growth charts). Linear mixed-effects models were used to study the evolution of each outcome between ages 10 and 17. For growth, sex-specific models with fractional polynomials were used to model non-linear relationships for age at ART initiation, HAZ at age 10 and time, defined as current age from 10 to 17 years of age. RESULTS A total of 20,939 and 19,557 APH were included for the growth and CD4 analyses, respectively. Half were females, two-thirds lived in East and Southern Africa, and median age at ART initiation ranged from <3 years in North America and Europe to >7 years in sub-Saharan African regions. At age 10, stunting ranged from 6% in North America and Europe to 39% in the Asia-Pacific; 19% overall had CD4 counts <500 cells/mm3 . Across adolescence, higher HAZ was observed in females and among those in high-income countries. APH with stunting at age 10 and those with late ART initiation (after age 5) had the largest HAZ gains during adolescence, but these gains were insufficient to catch-up with non-stunted, early ART-treated adolescents. From age 10 to 16 years, mean CD4 counts declined from 768 to 607 cells/mm3 . This decline was observed across all regions, in males and females. CONCLUSIONS Growth patterns during adolescence differed substantially by sex and region, while CD4 patterns were similar, with an observed CD4 decline that needs further investigation. Early diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment in early childhood to prevent growth retardation and immunodeficiency are critical to improving APH growth and CD4 outcomes by the time they reach adulthood.
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50
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Kalomo EN, Shamrova D, Jun JS, Kaddu MN, Kalb A. Risk and protective factors for depressive symptoms among the youth living with HIV in Namibia. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2022; 21:65-76. [PMID: 35361060 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2022.2041054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND : Namibia has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates among young people living with HIV and AIDS. The study of mental well-being among this vulnerable population is emerging as an important area of public health research. METHODS : This study examined how gender, social support, food insecurity, HIV-related stigma, HIV treatment adherence and HIV transmission knowledge are related to depressive symptoms among young people living with HIV in rural northern Namibia. Data were collected from 188 participants from the Zambezi region. RESULTS : The hierarchical regression analysis revealed that being a female infected with HIV, having perceived food insecurity, experiencing more HIV-related stigma and having low levels of social support can exacerbate the severity of depressive symptoms in this sample of Namibian youth. DISCUSSION : Our findings point to the need to expand social support interventions, enhance socio-economic programmes and reduce HIV-related stigma among young people living with HIV, especially those residing in rural, HIV endemic, resource-limited communities in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dasha Shamrova
- School of Social Work, Wichita State University, Wichita, USA
| | - Jung Sim Jun
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work, Kansas State University, Manhattan, USA
| | | | - Amy Kalb
- School of Social Work, Wichita State University, Wichita, USA
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