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Jaiswal J, Griffin M, LoSchiavo C, Cox A, Hascher K, Dunlap K, Walters S, Burton WM, Grin B, Mumba M, Eaton E. Challenges to Providing Integrated HIV Prevention in Substance Use Treatment Settings: Frontline Staff Perspectives on HIV and Sex-Related, Education, Communication and Stigma. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 58:1866-1873. [PMID: 37818832 PMCID: PMC10873058 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2257308] [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] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Substance use treatment settings can play a critical role in ending the HIV epidemic. Community-based methadone clinics are potentially useful sites to offer biomedical HIV prevention, but little is known about how clinicians and other clinic staff communicate with patients about sexual behavior and HIV-related topics. METHODS Thirty semi-structured interviews were conducted at two methadone clinics in Northern New Jersey. Participants included medical providers (physicians, RNs, DNPs), methadone counselors, intake coordinators, lab technicians, and other auxiliary staff members. Results: Three major themes were identified: (1) HIV education is primarily provided by external organizations, (2) there is limited staff-patient communication around HIV and sexual behaviors, and (3) HIV stigma is prevalent among staff and patients. CONCLUSION To implement PrEP in methadone treatment settings, clinic staff must be able to engage in non-judgmental communication about HIV and sex with patients. Additionally, federal and state funding for HIV prevention in substance use treatment settings must be prioritized to enable clinics to access the necessary training and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Jaiswal
- Family and Community Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marybec Griffin
- Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Caleb LoSchiavo
- Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Amanda Cox
- Institute of Data and Analytics, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | | | - Kandyce Dunlap
- Department of Health Science, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | | | - Wanda M Burton
- Department of Nursing, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Benjamin Grin
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Mercy Mumba
- Department of Nursing, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Ellen Eaton
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama-Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Saleem HT, Knight D, Yang C, Kidorf M, Latkin C, Nkya IH. HIV Stigma, HIV status disclosure, and ART adherence in the context of an integrated opioid use disorder and HIV treatment setting in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. AIDS Care 2023; 35:91-94. [PMID: 35109727 PMCID: PMC9343474 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2032575] [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] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about social factors, including stigma, that affect antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among people enrolled in opioid use disorder treatment (OUDT) in the context of integrated OUDT and HIV treatment models. We qualitatively examined the relationship between HIV stigma, HIV status disclosure, and ART adherence among clients living with HIV at an OUDT clinic with integrated HIV services in Tanzania. We conducted in-depth interviews with 25 clients receiving HIV care at an OUDT clinic in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania between January and April 2020. HIV stigma, particularly anticipated stigma, and HIV status disclosure were key factors that affected ART adherence. Participants feared non-voluntary HIV status disclosure to and HIV stigma from their peers enrolled in OUDT. Most participants reported concealing their HIV status from peers at the OUDT clinic and not associating with other clients living with HIV at the clinic. Reducing HIV stigma and enhancing clinic structures and procedures to maintain privacy and confidentiality are essential to mitigating the effects of stigma on ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneefa T Saleem
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Deja Knight
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Cui Yang
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael Kidorf
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Iddi Haruna Nkya
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Dickson-Gomez J, Krechel S, Katende D, Johnston B, Twaibu W, Glasman L, Ogwal M, Musinguzi G. The Role of Context in Integrating Buprenorphine into a Drop-In Center in Kampala, Uganda, Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10382. [PMID: 36012015 PMCID: PMC9407835 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Africa has long borne the brunt of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic, until recently, the continent has been considered largely free of illicit drug use and injection drug use in particular. In Uganda, the number of people who use or inject drugs (PWUD and PWID, respectively) has increased, and PWID are a key population at high risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, harm reduction practices, including providing clean injection equipment and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), have only recently been piloted in the country. This project aims to integrate buprenorphine into a harm reduction drop-in center (DIC). METHODS The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used to guide our preparations to integrate buprenorphine into existing practices at a harm reduction DIC. We conducted key informant interviews with members of a community advisory board and DIC staff to document this process, its successes, and its failures. RESULTS Results indicate that criminalization of drug use and stigmatization of PWUD challenged efforts to provide buprenorphine treatment in less regulated community settings. CONCLUSIONS DIC staff and their commitment to harm reduction and advocacy facilitated the process of obtaining necessary approvals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Dickson-Gomez
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Sarah Krechel
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Dan Katende
- Uganda Harm Reduction Network, Kampala 31762, Uganda
| | - Bryan Johnston
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Wamala Twaibu
- Uganda Harm Reduction Network, Kampala 31762, Uganda
| | - Laura Glasman
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Moses Ogwal
- School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala 7072, Uganda
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Haldane V, Jung AS, De Foo C, Shrestha P, Urdaneta E, Turk E, Gaviria JI, Boadas J, Buse K, Miranda JJ, Strathdee SA, Barratt A, Kazatchkine M, McKee M, Legido-Quigley H. Integrating HIV and substance misuse services: a person-centred approach grounded in human rights. Lancet Psychiatry 2022; 9:676-688. [PMID: 35750060 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(22)00159-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Integrating HIV-related care with treatment for substance use disorder provides an opportunity to better meet the needs of people living with these conditions. People with substance use disorder are rendered especially vulnerable by prevailing policies, structural inequalities, and stigmatisation. In this Series paper we analyse existing literature and empirical evidence from scoping reviews on integration designs for the treatment of HIV and substance use disorder, to understand barriers to and facilitators of care integration and to map ways forward. We discuss how approaches to integration address two core gaps in current models: a failure to consider human rights when incorporating the perspectives of people living with HIV and people who use drugs, and a failure to reflect critically on structural factors that determine risk, vulnerability, health-care seeking, and health equity. We argue that successful integration requires a person-centred approach, which is grounded in human rights, treats both concerns holistically, and reconnects with underlying social, economic, and political inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Haldane
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anne-Sophie Jung
- School of Politics and International Studies, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | - Chuan De Foo
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore; National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Pami Shrestha
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore; National University Health System, Singapore
| | | | - Eva Turk
- Institute for Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Medical Faculty, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Juan I Gaviria
- Coordinación de Vigilancia Epidemiologica e Infectologia, Hospital del Instituto Ecuatoriano del Seguro Social (IESS) Sur de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Jesus Boadas
- Centro de Rehabilitación Mental ANSALUD, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Kent Buse
- The George Institute for Global Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - J Jaime Miranda
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru; The George Institute for Global Health, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Ashley Barratt
- Positive21, London, UK; ReShape/International HIV Partnerships-European Chemsex Forum, London, UK
| | | | - Martin McKee
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Helena Legido-Quigley
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore; National University Health System, Singapore; Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Mitra S, Grant C, Nolan S, Mohd Salleh NA, Milloy MJ, Richardson L. Assessing the Temporality Between Transitions onto Opioid Agonist Therapy and Engagement with Antiretroviral Therapy in a Cohort of HIV-Positive People Who Use Opioids Daily. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1933-1942. [PMID: 34977956 PMCID: PMC9859621 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03543-y] [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] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A robust evidence-base describes the beneficial association between opioid agonist therapy (OAT) and HIV-related outcomes among people living with HIV and opioid use disorder. While some evidence suggests the stabilizing effect of OAT on antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment engagement, less is understood about the potential for an inverse relationship. We sought to examine the relationship between transitions in ART engagement and transitions onto OAT. We used data from a prospective cohort of people living with HIV who use drugs in Vancouver, Canada-a setting with no-cost access to ART and low or no-cost access to OAT among low-income residents. Restricting the sample to those who reported daily or greater opioid use, we used generalized linear mixed-effects models to estimate the relationships between our primary outcome of transitions onto OAT (methadone or buprenorphine/naloxone) and transitions (1) onto ART and (2) into ART adherence. Subsequent analyses assessed the temporal sequencing of transitions. Between 2005 and 2017, among 433 participants, 48.3% reported transitioning onto OAT at least once. In concurrent analyses, transitions onto ART were positively and significantly associated with transitions onto OAT. Temporal sequencing revealed that transitions into OAT were also positively and significantly associated with subsequent transitions onto ART. OAT's potential to facilitate the uptake of ART points to the continued need to scale-up low-threshold, client-centered substance use services integrated alongside HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjana Mitra
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies Program, University of British Columbia, 270-2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada,British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, University of British Columbia, 400-1045 Howe, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Cameron Grant
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, University of British Columbia, 400-1045 Howe, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Seonaid Nolan
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, University of British Columbia, 400-1045 Howe, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 317-2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nur Afiqah Mohd Salleh
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - M.-J. Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, University of British Columbia, 400-1045 Howe, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 317-2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Lindsey Richardson
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, University of British Columbia, 400-1045 Howe, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada,Department of Sociology, University of British Columbia, 6303 NW Marine Drive, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada
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Nguyen Thu T, Dinh TTT, Nguyen Bich D, Hoffman K, Nguyen Thu H, Edsall A, Bart G, Korthuis PT, Le Minh G. Stigma as a barrier to integrated substance use and HIV care in Vietnam: A qualitative examination of patient and provider perspectives. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2022; 23:182-197. [PMID: 35635379 PMCID: PMC9708927 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2022.2080785] [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] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Integration of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and HIV care can increase antiretroviral therapy coverage among people with opioid use disorder (OUD). However, implementation of integrated treatment models remains limited. Stigma towards people with OUD poses a barrier to initiation of, and adherence to, HIV treatment. We sought to understand the extent of stigma towards SUD and HIV among people with OUD in Vietnam, and the effect of stigma on integrated OUD and HIV treatment services utilization. Between 2013 and 2015, we conducted in-depth interviews with 43 patients and 43 providers at 7 methadone clinics and 8 HIV clinics across 4 provinces in Vietnam. We used thematic analysis with a mixed deductive and inductive approach at the semantic level to analyze key topics. Two main themes were identified: (1) Confidentiality concerns about HIV status make patients reluctant to receive integrated care at HIV clinics, given the requirements for daily buprenorphine dosing at HIV clinics. (2) Provider stigma existed mostly toward people with OUD and seemed to center on the belief that substance use causes a deterioration in one's morals, and was most frequently manifested in the form of providers' apprehensive approach towards patients. Concerns regarding stigmatization may cause patients to feel reluctant to receive treatment for both OUD and HIV at a single integrated clinic. Interventions to reduce stigma at the clinic and policy levels may thus serve to improve initiation of and adherence to integrated care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kim Hoffman
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | | | | | - Gavin Bart
- Hennepin Healthcare and University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Kudrina I, Puzhko S, Filion KB, Gore G, Paraskevopoulos E, Windle S, Martel MO, Eisenberg MJ. Effectiveness of interventions for prevention of common infections in people who use opioids: a protocol for a systematic review of systematic reviews. Syst Rev 2021; 10:298. [PMID: 34782008 PMCID: PMC8591821 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-021-01852-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The North American opioid crisis is driven by opioid-related mortality and morbidity, including opioid use-associated infections (OUAIs), resulting in a substantial burden for society. Users of legal and illegal opioids are at an increased risk of OUAIs compared to individuals not using opioids. As reported for hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), bacterial, fungal, and other infections, OUAIs transmission and acquisition risks may be modifiable. Several systematic reviews (SRs) synthetized data regarding interventions to prevent infections in persons using drugs (e.g., opioid substitution therapy, needle and syringes exchange programs, psycho-social interventions); however, their conclusions varied. Therefore, SR of published SRs is needed to synthesize the highest level of evidence on the scope and effectiveness of interventions to prevent OUAIs in people using opioids legally or illegally. METHODS We will comprehensively search for SRs in the PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Epistemonikos, and Google Scholar databases from inception to November 2020. Data selection and extraction for each SR will be performed independently by two researchers, with disagreements resolved by consensus. All SRs regarding interventions with evaluated effectiveness to prevent OUAI in legal and/or illegal opioid users will be eligible. Risk of bias assessment will be performed using the AMSTAR2 tool. The results will be qualitatively synthesized, and a typology of interventions' effectiveness with a statement on the strength of evidence for each category will be created. DISCUSSION Our pilot search of PubMed resulted in 379 SRs analyzing the effectiveness of interventions to prevent HCV and HIV in persons who inject different types of drugs, including opioids. Of these 379 SRs, 8 evaluated primary studies where participants used opioids and would therefore be eligible for inclusion. The search results thus justify the application of SR of SRs approach. Comprehensive data on the scope and effectiveness of existing interventions to prevent OUAIs will help policy-makers to plan and implement preventive interventions and will assist clinicians in the guidance for their patients using opioids. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION Registered in PROSPERO on 30 July 2020 ( #195929 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Kudrina
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 5858 Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 300, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1 Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 1650 Cedar Ave., Montreal, QC H3G 1A4 Canada
| | - Svetlana Puzhko
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 5858 Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 300, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1 Canada
| | - Kristian B. Filion
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Purvis Hall, 1020 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A2 Canada
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2 Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University Health Center, McGill University, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Suite D05-2212, Montreal, QC H4A3JI Canada
| | - Genevieve Gore
- Schulich Library of Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Engineering, McGill University, 3459 rue McTavish, Montreal, QC H3A OC9 Canada
| | - Elena Paraskevopoulos
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 5858 Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 300, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1 Canada
- Queensway Carleton Hospital, 3045 Baseline Rd, Ottawa, ON K2H 8P4 Canada
| | - Sarah Windle
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Purvis Hall, 1020 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A2 Canada
| | - Marc O. Martel
- Department of Anesthesia, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 1650 Cedar Ave., Montreal, QC H3G 1A4 Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, 2001 Avenue McGill College, Suite 500, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1 Canada
| | - Mark J. Eisenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Purvis Hall, 1020 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A2 Canada
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2 Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 3605 de la Montagne, Montreal, Qc H3G 2M1 Canada
- Division of Cardiology, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2 Canada
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Kraef C, Bentzon A, Skrahina A, Mocroft A, Peters L, Lundgren JD, Chkhartishvili N, Podlekareva D, Kirk O. Improving healthcare for patients with HIV, tuberculosis and hepatitis C in eastern Europe: a review of current challenges and important next steps. HIV Med 2021; 23:48-59. [PMID: 34468073 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13163] [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: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In some eastern European countries, serious challenges exist to meet the HIV-, tuberculosis (TB)- and hepatitis-related target of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Some of the highest incidence rates for HIV and the highest proportion of multi-drug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis worldwide are found in the region. The purpose of this article is to review the challenges and important next steps to improve healthcare for people living with TB, HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) in eastern Europe. METHODS References for this narrative review were identified through systematic searches of PubMed using pre-idientified key word for articles published in English from January 2000 to August 2020. After screening of titles and abstracts 37 articles were identified as relevant for this review. Thirty-eight further articles and sources were identified through searches in the authors' personal files and in Google Scholar. RESULTS Up to 50% of HIV/MDR-TB-coinfected individuals in the region die within 2 years of treatment initiation. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage for people living with HIV (PLHIV) and the proportion virological suppressed are far below the UNAIDS 90% targets. In theory, access to various diagnostic tests and treatment of drug-resistant TB exists, but real-life data point towards inadequate testing and treatment. New treatments could provide elimination of viral HCV in high-risk populations but few countries have national programmes. CONCLUSION Some eastern European countries face serious challenges to achieve the sustainable development goal-related target of 3.3 by 2030, among others, to end the epidemics of AIDS and tuberculosis. Better integration of healthcare systems, standardization of health care, unrestricted substitution therapy for all people who inject drugs, widespread access to drug susceptibility testing, affordable medicines and a sufficiently sized, well-trained health workforce could address some of those challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Kraef
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Disease, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Adrian Bentzon
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alena Skrahina
- Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Pulmonology and Tuberculosis, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Amanda Mocroft
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Clinical Research, Epidemiology, Modelling and Evaluation (CREME), Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lars Peters
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens D Lundgren
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Disease, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nikoloz Chkhartishvili
- Infectious Diseases, AIDS & Clinical Immunology Research Center, Tbilisi, Georgia.,Caucasus International University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Daria Podlekareva
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Disease, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Kirk
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Disease, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Association of Substance Use Disorders with Engagement in Care and Mortality among a Clinical Cohort of People with HIV in Washington, DC. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:2289-2300. [PMID: 33521909 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03157-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are common among people with HIV and can prevent achievement of optimal health outcomes. Using data from a longitudinal HIV cohort study in the District of Columbia (2011-2018), we calculated the prevalence and correlates of SUD (alcohol, stimulant, and/or opioid use disorders) and determined the association of SUD with engagement in HIV care, ART prescription, viral suppression, and mortality. Of 8420 adults, 3168 (37.6%) had a history of any SUD, most commonly history of alcohol use disorder (29.6%). SUDs disproportionately affected Black individuals (aOR 1.33) and heterosexuals (aOR 1.18), and women had a lower risk of SUD (aOR 0.65). SUD was not associated with engagement in care, ART prescription, or viral suppression. SUD was associated with mortality (aHR 1.31). Addressing alcohol use disorder and preventable causes of death among people with HIV and substance use disorders should be priorities for clinical care and public health.
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Nguemo Djiometio JB, Djiadeu P, Mbuagbaw L, Njoroge I, Nelson LE, Kahan M. Individuals' experiences of the integration of substance use/addiction and HIV/AIDS services in community settings: a qualitative systematic review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 18:2687-2693. [PMID: 32740031 DOI: 10.11124/jbisrir-d-19-00391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objectives of this systematic review are: i) to identify, appraise, and synthesize the best available evidence on individuals' experiences of the integration of substance use/addiction and HIV/AIDS services in community settings, and ii) to identify barriers to and facilitators of the integration of the services. INTRODUCTION The integration of drug use treatment and HIV services has shown to improve HIV prevention, decrease HIV infection and progression, while improving access to social and support services among substance users. Combined pharmacological and behavioral drug use treatments have been proven to diminish behaviors that increase HIV risk, decrease incidence of the disease, and improve adherence to antiretroviral therapy among individuals who use drugs and are HIV-positive. INCLUSION CRITERIA The populations of interest in this review include patients who have experienced integrated substance use/addiction and HIV services, as well as health care professionals and policy makers who have been involved in developing or implementing integrated substance use/addiction and HIV/AIDS services. Eligible studies will focus on the views, attitudes, understandings, and perceptions of patients, health care professionals, and policy makers resulting from experience in developing or implementing strategies that have or could inform the integration of substance use/addiction and HIV/AIDS services in community settings. METHODS Searches will be conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINHAL. The search for unpublished studies will include OpenGrey, Grey Matters, New York Academy of Medicine's Grey Literature Report, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. Selected studies will be critically appraised by two independent reviewers for methodological quality. Data will be extracted and then synthesized following the JBI meta-aggregative approach. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO CRD42020185858.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B Nguemo Djiometio
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Faculty of Community Services, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Substance Use Service/META:PHI, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Pascal Djiadeu
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Lawrence Mbuagbaw
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Irene Njoroge
- Substance Use Service/META:PHI, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - LaRon E Nelson
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Meldon Kahan
- Substance Use Service/META:PHI, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Bentzon AK, Panteleev A, Mitsura V, Borodulina E, Skrahina A, Denisova E, Tetradov S, Podlasin R, Riekstina V, Kancauskiene Z, Paduto D, Mocroft A, Trofimova T, Miller R, Post F, Grezesczuk A, Lundgren JD, Inglot M, Podlekareva D, Bolokadze N, Kirk O. Healthcare delivery for HIV-positive people with tuberculosis in Europe. HIV Med 2021; 22:283-293. [PMID: 33215809 PMCID: PMC9801686 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a 2013 survey, we reported distinct discrepancies in delivery of tuberculosis (TB) and HIV services in eastern Europe (EE) vs. western Europe (WE). OBJECTIVES To verify the differences in TB and HIV services in EE vs. WE. METHODS Twenty-three sites completed a survey in 2018 (EE, 14; WE, nine; 88% response rate). Results were compared across as well as within the two regions. When possible, results were compared with the 2013 survey. RESULTS Delivery of healthcare was significantly less integrated in EE: provision of TB and HIV services at one site (36% in EE vs. 89% in WE; P = 0.034), and continued TB follow-up in one location (42% vs. 100%; P = 0.007). Although access to TB diagnostics, standard TB and HIV drugs was generally good, fewer sites in EE reported unlimited access to rifabutin/multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) drugs, HIV integrase inhibitors and opioid substitution therapy (OST). Compared with 2013, routine usage of GeneXpert was more common in EE in 2018 (54% vs. 92%; P = 0.073), as was access to moxifloxacin (46% vs. 91%; P = 0.033), linezolid (31% vs. 64%; P = 0.217), and bedaquiline (0% vs. 25%; P = 0.217). Integration of TB and HIV services (46% vs. 39%; P = 1.000) and provision of OST to patients with opioid dependency (54% vs. 46%; P = 0.695) remained unchanged. CONCLUSION Delivery of TB and HIV healthcare, including integration of TB and HIV care and access to MDR-TB drugs, still differs between WE and EE, as well as between individual EE sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- A K Bentzon
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Department of Infectious Disease, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A Panteleev
- Department of HIV/TB, TB Hospital 2, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - V Mitsura
- Gomel State Medical University, Gomel, Belarus
| | - E Borodulina
- Department of Phthisiology and Pulmonology, Samara State Medical University of Minzdrav of Russia, Samara, Russia
| | - A Skrahina
- Republican Research and Practical Clinic for Pulmonology, Minsk, Belarus
| | - E Denisova
- Botkin Hospital of Infectious Disease, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - S Tetradov
- Dr. Victor Babes Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - R Podlasin
- Wojewodski Szpital Zakanzy/Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - V Riekstina
- Clinic of TB and Lung Diseases, Riga, Latvia
| | - Z Kancauskiene
- Clinic for Communicable Diseases and AIDS, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - D Paduto
- Gomel Region Clinic for Hygiene, Svetlogorsk, Belarus
| | - A Mocroft
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - T Trofimova
- Clinic for Prevention and Control of AIDS, Novgorod, Russia
| | - R Miller
- Mortimer Market Clinic, London, UK
| | - F Post
- King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - A Grezesczuk
- Medical University Teaching Hospital, Bialystok, Poland
| | - J D Lundgren
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Department of Infectious Disease, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M Inglot
- Wroclaw University School of Medicine, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - D Podlekareva
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Department of Infectious Disease, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - N Bolokadze
- Infectious Diseases, AIDS and Clinical Immunology Research Clinic, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - O Kirk
- CHIP (Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections), Department of Infectious Disease, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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12
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Fleming T, Collins AB, Bardwell G, Fowler A, Boyd J, Milloy MJ, Small W, McNeil R. A qualitative investigation of HIV treatment dispensing models and impacts on adherence among people living with HIV who use drugs. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246999. [PMID: 33635886 PMCID: PMC7909635 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) dispensing is strongly associated with treatment adherence. Among illicit drug-using populations, whom experience greater structural barriers to adherence, directly administered antiretroviral therapy (DAAT) is often regarded as a stronger predictor of optimal adherence over self-administered medications. In Vancouver, Canada, people living with HIV (PLHIV) who use drugs and live in low-income housing are a critical population for treatment support. This group is typically able to access two key DAAT models, daily delivery and daily pickup, in addition to ART self-administration. This ethno-epidemiological qualitative study explores how key dispensing models impact ART adherence among PLHIV who use drugs living in low-income housing, and how this is framed by structural vulnerability. Semi-structured interviews lasting 30-45 minutes were conducted between February and May 2018 with 31 PLHIV who use drugs recruited from an ongoing prospective cohort of PLHIV who use drugs. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using QSR International's NVivo 12 software. Interviews focused on housing, drug use, and HIV management. Models that constrained agency were found to have negative impacts on adherence and quality of life. Treatment interruptions were framed by structural vulnerabilities (e.g., housing vulnerability) that impacted ability to maintain adherence under certain dispensing models, and led participants to consider other models. Participants using DAAT models which accounted for their structural vulnerabilities (e.g., mobility issues, housing instability), credited these models for their treatment adherence, but also acknowledged factors that constrained agency, and the negative impacts this could have on both adherence, and quality of life. Being able to integrate ART into an established routine is key to supporting ART adherence. ART models that account for the structural vulnerability of PLHIV who use drugs and live in low-income housing are necessary and housing-based supports could be critical, but the impacts of such models on agency must be considered to ensure optimal adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Fleming
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alexandra B. Collins
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Geoff Bardwell
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Al Fowler
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jade Boyd
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - M. J. Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Will Small
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Ryan McNeil
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Program in Addiction Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
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13
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Salleh NAM, Voon P, Karamouzian M, Milloy MJ, Richardson L. Methadone maintenance therapy service components linked to improvements in HIV care cascade outcomes: A systematic review of trials and observational studies. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 218:108342. [PMID: 33097340 PMCID: PMC7750271 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The beneficial links between engagement in methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) and HIV treatment outcomes have been extensively described. Nevertheless, people who use drugs (PWUD) continue to experience suboptimal HIV treatment outcomes. In this systematic review, we sought to identify components of MMT service provision that are associated with improvements in HIV care outcomes across the HIV care cascade. METHODS We searched for peer-reviewed studies in online databases. To be eligible for inclusion in this review, studies must have involved a population or sub-population of PWUD engaged in MMT; report improved uptake of HIV testing, exposure to ART, or HIV-1 RNA plasma viral load suppression; provide details on MMT services; and be published in English between 1 January 2006 until 31 December 2018. RESULTS Out of the 5594 identified records, 22 studies were eligible for this systematic review. Components of MMT services associated with HIV care cascade outcomes described in the studies were classified in three categories of care models: 1) standard MMT care with adequate doses, 2) standard MMT care and alongside additional medical component(s), and 3) standard MMT care, additional medical component(s) as well as informational or instrumental social support. CONCLUSION The few studies identified reflect a scarcity of evidence on the role of social support to increase the benefits of MMT for PWUD who are living with HIV. Further research is needed to assess the role of medical and social service components in MMT care delivery in advancing PWUD along the HIV care cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- NA Mohd Salleh
- Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Program, University of
British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC,
Canada,Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of
Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pauline Voon
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC,
Canada,School of Population and Public Health, University of
British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC,
Canada,School of Population and Public Health, University of
British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,HIV/STI Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for
HIV Surveillance, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC,
Canada,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia,
Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lindsey Richardson
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Sociology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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14
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Sereda Y, Kiriazova T, Makarenko O, Carroll JJ, Rybak N, Chybisov A, Bendiks S, Idrisov B, Dutta A, Gillani FS, Samet JH, Flanigan T, Lunze K. Stigma and quality of co-located care for HIV-positive people in addiction treatment in Ukraine: a cross-sectional study. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25492. [PMID: 32372534 PMCID: PMC7201176 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Co-located treatment for HIV and opioid use disorder has been shown to improve care outcomes for HIV-positive people who inject drugs (PWID) in Ukraine. However, patients continue to be stigmatized for both HIV and substance use. This study aimed to assess whether co-located care for HIV-positive PWID receiving opioid agonist treatment (OAT) services in Ukraine is associated with less stigma and better perceived quality of HIV services. METHODS This cross-sectional study enrolled 191 HIV-positive PWID who received OAT services at three healthcare facilities providing substance use treatment (OAT only) and at four facilities that provided co-located care (both OAT and HIV treatment) in six regions in Ukraine during July-September, 2017. Primary outcomes were HIV stigma (Berger scale), substance use stigma (Substance Abuse Stigma Scale) and intersectional stigma (both stigma forms above 75th percentile). Secondary outcome was quality of HIV care, a composite score based on a package of received services. Linear and ordinal regressions were used to assess the predictors of selected outcomes. RESULTS Study participants were 75% male, mean age 40 ± 7 years; 47% received co-located care, and 10.5% had both high HIV and substance use stigma. Co-located care was neither associated with HIV nor substance use stigma but it was linked to better quality of HIV care (adjusted odds ratio: 4.13; 95% CI: 2.31, 7.54). HIV stigma was associated with suicide attempts (adjusted beta (aβ): 5.90; 95% CI: 2.05, 9.75), and substance use stigma was linked to poor mental health (aβ: -0.26; 95% CI: -0.44, -0.08) and lower likelihood of receipt of services from non-governmental organization (NGO; aβ: -6.40; 95% CI: -10.23, -2.57). CONCLUSION One in ten people with HIV in this cohort who received OAT services experienced high levels of both HIV and substance use stigma, which was associated with poorer mental health and less NGO support. Co-located HIV and OAT services were linked to better perceived quality of HIV care, but did not seem to reduce stigma for this key population. Stigma interventions for PWID, possibly delivered involving NGOs, may be an approach to mitigate this challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliia Sereda
- Ukrainian Institute on Public Health Policy ConsultantKyivUkraine
| | | | | | - Jennifer J Carroll
- Elon UniversityElonNCUSA
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRIUSA
| | - Natasha Rybak
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRIUSA
| | | | | | - Bulat Idrisov
- Bashkir State Medical UniversityUfaRussia
- Federal Research Institute for Health Organization and Informatics of Ministry of Health of the Russian FederationMoscowRussia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and TechnologyMoscowRussia
| | | | - Fizza S Gillani
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRIUSA
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15
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Dickson-Gomez J, Twaibu W, Christenson E, Dan K, Anguzu R, Homedi E, Mbona Tumwesigye N. Injection and sexual risk among people who use or inject drugs in Kampala, Uganda: An exploratory qualitative study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231969. [PMID: 32320448 PMCID: PMC7176107 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have seen rapid increases in injection drug use since 2008. In Uganda, the Global Sate of Harm report and studies conducted by Makerere University Crane Surveys have estimated HIV prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) at approximately 17%. The objective of the research was to document injection and other drug-related risks among people who use drugs in Uganda to develop comprehensive HIV/HCV prevention interventions. Methods Between August and September 2018, we conducted qualitative interviews among male and female people who use drugs. Interview topics included the availability and accessibility of clean syringes, injection risks, overdose, sexual-risk behaviors, and the availability and accessibility of harm reduction and drug treatment services. Results Participants reported several injection-related risks including sharing and reusing syringes, pooling and mixing drugs in the same container, measuring drugs using syringes, getting prefilled injections from dealers, being injected by other people who inject drugs, and using contaminated water or blood to dilute drugs. Participants reported a scarcity of harm reduction services, although a few appear to have participated in the syringe exchange pilot conducted by the Uganda Harm Reduction Network (UHRN). Even fewer reported knowing organizations that helped people who use drugs abstain from or reduce their use. Medication assisted therapy (MAT) and naloxone to reverse overdoses are not currently available. Conclusions Comprehensive prevention and treatment services are needed in Uganda and should include expanded syringe exchange programs, social network HIV testing, HCV testing, provision of naloxone and MAT, and linkage to and retention in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Dickson-Gomez
- Division of Epidemiology, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Erica Christenson
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Katende Dan
- Uganda Harm Reduction Network, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ronald Anguzu
- Division of Epidemiology, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Ethan Homedi
- Division of Epidemiology, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
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16
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Larance B, Campbell G, Moore T, Nielsen S, Bruno R, Lintzeris N, Cohen M, Hall W, Mattick R, O'Donnell C, Degenhardt L. Concerns and Help-Seeking Among Patients Using Opioids for Management of Chronic Noncancer Pain. PAIN MEDICINE 2019; 20:758-769. [PMID: 29762767 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pny078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The safety and efficacy of long-term opioid treatment for chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) remains controversial. This study examined whether patients who report problematic opioid use sought help and/or perceived barriers to help-seeking. METHODS Data were collected from 1,086 people prescribed opioids for CNCP via a large prospective cohort called the Pain and Opioids IN Treatment (POINT) study. Patients' characteristics and help-seeking were examined according to scores on the Prescribed Opioids Difficulties Scale (PODS). RESULTS Participants scoring "intermediate" (17%) or "high" (30%) on the PODS were younger and reported more complex pain presentations, higher opioid doses, poorer physical health, moderate to severe anxiety and depression, aberrant behavior, past month opioid use disorder and help-seeking (compared with the "low" PODS group, 53%). One-quarter (26%) had sought help, most commonly from a primary care physician, specialist pain clinic, family member/partner, counselor/psychologist, and the Internet. Participants in the "high" PODS group were more likely to have sought help from an alcohol or other drug service, addiction specialist, or drug information helpline. Common barriers to help-seeking were desire for self-management and concern that their opioid treatment may be discontinued. Although 35% met criteria for likely opioid use disorder, only 4.8% reported lifetime treatment with methadone or buprenorphine; participants' ratings indicated significant perceived stigma associated with these medications. CONCLUSIONS The PODS is effective in identifying patients who are concerned about their opioid use. Strategies to address stigma related to drug treatment, including better integration of primary health, specialist pain, and addiction services, are important in reducing opioid-related harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briony Larance
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gabrielle Campbell
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Teleri Moore
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Suzanne Nielsen
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,The Langton Centre, South East Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD) Drug and Alcohol Services, Sydney New South Wales, Australia
| | - Raimondo Bruno
- School of Medicine (Psychology), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Nicholas Lintzeris
- The Langton Centre, South East Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD) Drug and Alcohol Services, Sydney New South Wales, Australia.,Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Milton Cohen
- St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wayne Hall
- Centre for Youth Substance Abuse, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia
| | - Richard Mattick
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Courtney O'Donnell
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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17
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Mohd Salleh NA, Fairbairn N, Nolan S, Barrios R, Shoveller J, Richardson L, Milloy MJ. Dispensation of antiretroviral therapy and methadone maintenance therapy at the same facility in a low-barrier setting linked to optimal adherence to HIV treatment. HIV Med 2019; 20:606-614. [PMID: 31359615 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to examine the association between dispensation of methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) at the same facility, across multiple low-barrier dispensing outlets, and achieving optimal adherence to ART among people who use illicit drugs (PWUD). METHODS We used data from the AIDS Care Cohort to Evaluate Exposure to Survival Services (ACCESS) study, a long-running study of a community-recruited cohort of HIV-positive PWUD, linked to comprehensive HIV clinical records in Vancouver, Canada, a setting of no-cost, universal access to HIV care. The longitudinal relationship between MMT-ART dispensation at the same facility and the odds of ≥ 95% ART adherence was analysed using multivariable generalized linear mixed-effects modelling. We conducted a further analysis using a marginal structural mode with inverse probability of treatment weights as a sensitivity analysis. RESULTS This study included data on 1690 interviews of 345 ART- and MMT-exposed participants carried out between June 2012 and December 2017. In the final multivariable model, MMT-ART dispensation, compared with nondispensation at the same facility, was associated with greater odds of achieving ≥ 95% adherence [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.56; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.26-1.96]. A marginal structural model estimated a 1.48 (95% CI 1.15-1.80) greater odds of ≥ 95% adherence among participants who reported MMT-ART dispensation at the same facility compared with those who did not. CONCLUSIONS The odds of achieving optimal adherence to ART were 56% higher during periods in which MMT and ART medications were dispensed at the same facility, in a low-barrier setting. Our findings highlight the need to consider a simpler integrated approach with medication dispensation at the same facility in low-threshold settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Mohd Salleh
- Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - N Fairbairn
- BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - S Nolan
- BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - R Barrios
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - J Shoveller
- BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - L Richardson
- BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Sociology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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18
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"Someone who is in this thing that I am suffering from": The role of peers and other facilitators for task sharing substance use treatment in South African HIV care. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 70:61-69. [PMID: 31082664 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
South Africa is home to the largest number of people living with HIV/AIDS in the world. Alongside the HIV/AIDS epidemic, problematic alcohol and other drug (AOD) use is prevalent and associated with poor HIV treatment and secondary HIV prevention outcomes. International guidelines and local policy both support the integration of mental health care and AOD treatment into HIV care, yet barriers exist to implementation. This study aimed to explore patient and provider perspectives on the integration of HIV and AOD treatment services in Cape Town, South Africa. This included barriers and facilitators to task sharing AOD treatment in HIV care and preferences for a task shared approach to integrating AOD treatment in HIV care, including who should deliver the behavioural intervention. We conducted thirty semi-structured qualitative interviews with HIV and AOD treatment staff, providers, and people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) with moderate, problematic AOD use and difficulties (personal or structural) adhering to HIV treatment. Findings illustrated several key themes: (1) the separation between AOD and HIV services (a "siloed treatment experience"), even in the context of geographic co-location; (2) low AOD treatment literacy among HIV patients and providers, including a low awareness of existing AOD use services, even when co-located; (3) substance use stigma as a barrier to HIV and AOD treatment integration; (4) a strong patient preference for peer interventionists; and (5) the role of community health workers (CHWs) in detecting AOD use among some PLWH who had not followed up in HIV care. These findings will inform a future type 1 hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial, guided by the RE-AIM framework, to evaluate a task shared, evidence-based intervention to address problematic AOD use and improve HIV medication adherence in this setting.
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19
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Gunn J, Higgs P. Directly observed hepatitis C treatment with opioid substitution therapy in community pharmacies: A qualitative study. Res Social Adm Pharm 2019; 16:1298-1301. [PMID: 31003763 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hepatitis C virus (HCV) will only be eliminated through successful engagement with people who inject drugs (PWID), however some of this population experience socioeconomic and individual issues that can lead to poor HCV treatment adherence. A key sub-group of (PWID) are those who receive opioid substitution therapy (OST). In Australia, OST is most often delivered under direct supervision by a community pharmacist every day or multiple times a week. This regular interaction could be an ideal opportunity to enhance direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment adherence under directly observed therapy (DOT) by the pharmacist. AIM The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of OST patients with a lived experience of HCV to understand whether or not dispensing DAAs in the same way as, or simultaneously with OST would benefit HCV treatment. METHODS Data collection occurred from June to August 2017. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of PWID living with HCV and on OST programs (n = 12) in Melbourne, Australia. Interviews were voice recorded and transcribed in verbatim. Interpretive phenomenology guided analysis of the data. RESULTS Themes reported by participants that provide insight into the suitability of DOT of DAAs include: Adherence and non-adherence to DAA treatment; Mixed views towards DOT of DAAs; Experiences and perceptions of OST providers; and Perceived stigma in the pharmacy. CONCLUSIONS Community pharmacies offering OST may be an effective place for DOT of HCV treatment, but is likely only to benefit people who face significant challenges to adherence. We suggest that a positive pharmacist-patient relationship, high OST adherence, and commitment to reducing stigma in the pharmacy would be necessary for the intervention to be effective. Further research is needed to evaluate the expanded-role of community pharmacies in improving DAA adherence and eliminating HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Gunn
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Peter Higgs
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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20
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Guise A, Ndimbii J, Igonya EK, Owiti F, Strathdee SA, Rhodes T. Integrated and differentiated methadone and HIV care for people who use drugs: a qualitative study in Kenya with implications for implementation science. Health Policy Plan 2019; 34:110-119. [PMID: 30789208 PMCID: PMC6481284 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czz002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrating methadone and HIV care is a priority in many low- and middle-income settings experiencing a growing challenge of HIV epidemics linked to injecting drug use. There is as yet little understanding of how to integrate methadone and HIV care in these settings and how such services can be implemented; such a gap reflects, in part, limitations in theorizing an implementation science of integrated care. In response, we qualitatively explored the delivery of methadone after its introduction in Kenya to understand integration with HIV care. Semi-structured interviews with people using methadone (n = 30) were supplemented by stakeholder interviews (n = 2) and participant observation in one city. Thematic analysis was used, that also drew on Mol's logic of care as an analytical framework. Respondents described methadone clinic-based care embedded in community support systems. Daily observed clinic care was challenging for methadone and stigmatizing for HIV treatment. In response to these challenges, integration evolved and HIV care differentiated to other sites. The resulting care system was acceptable to respondents and allowed for choice over locations and approaches to HIV care. Using Mol's logic of care as an analytical framework, we explore what led to this differentiation in integrated care. We explore co-production and experimentation around HIV care that compares with more limited experimentation for methadone. This experimentation is bounded by available discourses and materials. The study supports continued integration of services whilst allowing for differentiation of these models to adapt to client preferences. Co-location of integrated services must prioritize clinic organization that prevents HIV status disclosure. Our analysis fosters a material perspective for theory of implementation science and integration of services that focuses attention on local experimentation shaped by context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Guise
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, USA
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - James Ndimbii
- Kenya AIDS NGOs Consortium, Regent Management Suites, Argwings Kodhek Road, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Emmy Kageha Igonya
- School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Frederick Owiti
- School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Steffanie A Strathdee
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tim Rhodes
- Centre for Research on Drugs and Health Behaviour, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, UK
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Hassan S, Cooke A, Saleem H, Mushi D, Mbwambo J, Lambdin BH. Evaluating the Integrated Methadone and Anti-Retroviral Therapy Strategy in Tanzania Using the RE-AIM Framework. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16050728. [PMID: 30823440 PMCID: PMC6427450 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16050728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
There are an estimated 50,000 people who inject drugs in Tanzania, with an HIV prevalence in this population of 42%. The Integrated Methadone and Anti-Retroviral Therapy (IMAT) strategy was developed to integrate HIV services into an opioid treatment program (OTP) in sub-Saharan Africa and increase anti-retroviral therapy (ART) initiation rates. In this paper, we evaluate the IMAT strategy using an implementation science framework to inform future care integration efforts in the region. IMAT centralized HIV services into an OTP clinic in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania: HIV diagnosis, ART initiation, monitoring and follow up. A mixed-methods, concurrent design, was used for evaluation: quantitative programmatic data and semi-structured interviews with providers and clients addressed 4 out of 5 components of the RE-AIM framework: reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation. Results showed high reach: 98% of HIV-positive clients received HIV services; effectiveness: 90-day ART initiation rate doubled, from 41% pre-IMAT to 87% post-IMAT (p < 0.001); proportion of HIV-positive eligible clients on ART increased from 71% pre-IMAT to 98% post-IMAT (p < 0.001). There was high adoption and implementation protocol fidelity. Qualitative results informed barriers and facilitators of RE-AIM components. In conclusion, we successfully integrated HIV care into an OTP clinic in sub-Saharan Africa with increased rates of ART initiation. The IMAT strategy represents an effective care integration model to improve HIV care delivery for OTP clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saria Hassan
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
| | - Alexis Cooke
- San Francisco Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA.
| | - Haneefa Saleem
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Dorothy Mushi
- Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar-Es-Salaam 11000, Tanzania.
| | - Jessie Mbwambo
- Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar-Es-Salaam 11000, Tanzania.
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Mburu G, Limmer M, Holland P. HIV risk behaviours among women who inject drugs in coastal Kenya: findings from secondary analysis of qualitative data. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:10. [PMID: 30728012 PMCID: PMC6364406 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0281-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Injecting drug users are at high risk of HIV infection globally. Research related to female drug users is rare in Kenya, yet it is required to inform the development of gender-sensitive HIV prevention and harm reduction services in East Africa, where injecting drug use is on the rise. Methods This study aimed to document the nature of HIV risks encountered by women who inject drugs in the Mombasa and Kilifi, Kenya. Secondary data analysis was conducted on an existing dataset from a 2015 primary qualitative study involving 24 interviews and 3 focus group discussions with 45 women who inject drugs. These were complemented with five interviews with key stakeholders involved in the provision of services to women who inject drugs. Guided by the social ecology theory, a thematic analysis was conducted to identify the nature of HIV risks and their underlying determinants. Results HIV risk behaviours fell into two broad categories: unsafe injecting and unprotected sex. These risks occurred in the form of sharing of needles, unprotected oral, anal, and vaginal sex, sexual assaults, injecting drug use during sex, sex work, and other types of transactional sex. The primary determinants underlying these risks were a low-risk perception, inequitable gender power, economic pressures, and poor availability of needles and condoms. These social-ecological determinants did not exist in isolation, but intersected with each other to create powerful influences which exposed women to HIV. Social-ecological determinants exerted constant influence and created a persistent ‘HIV risk environment’ that was involuntarily experienced by women. Conclusion Individual, interpersonal, and societal-structural factors intersect to produce HIV risk behaviours. As a minimum, these risks will require a combination of multifaceted micro-level interventions including self-efficacy training, risk assessment skills, couple counselling, and universal access to the recommended harm reduction package. In addition, the current focus on micro-level interventions in Kenya needs to shift to incorporate macro-level interventions, including livelihood, employability, and gender norms-transforming interventions, to mitigate economic and gender-related drivers of HIV risks. In the Kenyan context, injecting drug use during sex work is emerging as an increasingly important HIV risk behaviour needing to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitau Mburu
- Division of Health Research, University of Lancaster, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK.
| | - Mark Limmer
- Division of Health Research, University of Lancaster, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK
| | - Paula Holland
- Division of Health Research, University of Lancaster, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK
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Horyniak D, Strathdee SA, West BS, Meacham M, Rangel G, Gaines TL. Predictors of injecting cessation among a cohort of people who inject drugs in Tijuana, Mexico. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 185:298-304. [PMID: 29482055 PMCID: PMC5889739 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Little is known about the cessation of injecting drug use (IDU) among people who inject drugs (PWID) in low and middle-income settings, where access to effective interventions for reducing drug use (e.g., opioid substitution treatment; OST), may be limited. We measured the incidence and identified predictors of IDU cessation among a cohort of PWID in Tijuana, Mexico. METHODS Data were drawn from 621 participants in Proyecto El Cuete IV, a prospective cohort of PWID recruited in 2011 and interviewed biannually to 2016. A multivariable Extended Cox model was constructed to identify socio-demographic, drug use, risk environment and health-related predictors of IDU cessation (no IDU for ≥six months). RESULTS 141 participants (23%) reported at least one IDU cessation event during follow-up. The crude IDU cessation rate was 7.3 per 100 person-years (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 6.2-8.7). IDU cessation was negatively associated with injecting at least daily on average and heroin/methamphetamine co-injection in the past six months, and positively associated with testing HIV positive at baseline, being on methadone maintenance therapy in the past six months, and recent arrest. Concern for personal safety was also independently associated with IDU cessation. CONCLUSIONS The rate of IDU cessation among PWID in Tijuana was low. These findings underscore the importance of expansion of services including OST to help reduce drug use and facilitate IDU cessation for those who wish to do so. In this setting, interventions addressing individual-level economic barriers as well as broader social and structural barriers to harm reduction services are integral.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Horyniak
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, United States,Behaviours and Health Risks Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Steffanie A. Strathdee
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, United States
| | - Brooke S. West
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, United States
| | - Meredith Meacham
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, United States
| | - Gudelia Rangel
- United States-Mexico Border Health Commission, Tijuana, BC, 22320, Mexico
| | - Tommi L. Gaines
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, United States,Correspondence: Tommi L. Gaines, Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093, Phone: 858-246-0600,
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Michlig GJ, Westergaard RP, Lam Y, Ahmadi A, Kirk GD, Genz A, Keruly J, Hutton H, Surkan PJ. Avoidance, meaning and grief: psychosocial factors influencing engagement in HIV care. AIDS Care 2018; 30:511-517. [PMID: 29338328 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1425366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Although the introduction of antiretroviral therapy has rendered HIV a chronic illness, inconsistent engagement in HIV care by key populations limits its public health impact. Poor engagement in care is especially prevalent among vulnerable populations with mental health and substance use disorders. Beyond structural and health system considerations, psychosocial factors may present challenges to sustained engagement. We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews with 31 primarily African American, urban-based individuals, many with past or current drug use and mental disorders, living with HIV. Participants identified several psychosocial barriers that detract from their motivation to attend appointments and take medication. These included mental distress or detachment over a lack of purpose in life; denial about the need to be engaged in care; insufficient trust in the efficacy of care or the health system; deaths of loved ones leading to bereavement or loss of social support; and engagement in specific avoidance behaviors like drugs and alcohol. The study findings suggest that more comprehensive HIV care, which integrates mental health and substance abuse services in order to enhance meaning and address coping and grief, may be important. Considering these services in addition to improving the logistical components of care such as cues/reminders, accessibility, and patient-provider communication may improve intervention packages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia J Michlig
- a International Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Ryan P Westergaard
- b University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health , Madison , WI , USA
| | - Yukyan Lam
- a International Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Azal Ahmadi
- a International Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Gregory D Kirk
- a International Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA.,c Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Andrew Genz
- a International Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Jeanne Keruly
- c Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Heidi Hutton
- c Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Pamela J Surkan
- a International Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
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Mburu G, Ngin C, Tuot S, Chhoun P, Pal K, Yi S. Patterns of HIV testing, drug use, and sexual behaviors in people who use drugs: findings from a community-based outreach program in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2017; 12:27. [PMID: 29202872 PMCID: PMC5715614 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-017-0094-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who use drugs are an important priority for HIV programs. However, data related to their utilization of HIV services are limited. This paper reports patterns of HIV testing, drug use, and risk and service perception among people who use drugs. Study participants were receiving HIV and harm reduction services from a community-based program in Phnom Penh, comprised of itinerant peer-led outreach and static drop-in centers. Methods This was a mixed-methods study conducted in 2014, comprising of a quantitative survey using a structured questionnaire, followed by two focus group discussions among a sub-sample of survey participants. Participants were recruited from hotspots in five HIV high-burden communes using a two-stage cluster sampling method. Quantitative descriptive analyses and qualitative thematic analyses were performed. Results This study included 151 people who use drugs with a mean age of 31.2 (SD = 6.5) years; 77.5% were male and 39.1% were married. The most common drugs used were methamphetamines (72.8%) and heroin (39.7%), and 38.0% injected drugs in the past 3 months. Overall, 83.3% had been tested for HIV in the past 6 months, of whom 62.5% had been tested by peers through community-based outreach. However, there were ongoing HIV risks: 37.3% were engaging in sex on drugs, only 35.6% used a condom at last sexual intercourse, and 10.8% had had a sexually transmitted infection in the last 6 months. Among people who reported injecting drugs in the past 3 months, 27.5% reported re-using needles/syringes. Almost half (46.5%) perceived themselves as being at lower risk of HIV compared to the general population. Qualitative results contextualized the findings of low perception of HIV risks and suggested that although services were often unavailable on weekends, at night, or during national holidays, peer-led community-based outreach was highly accepted. Conclusions A peer-led community-based approach was effective in reaching people who use drugs with HIV and harm reduction interventions. To mitigate ongoing HIV risks, expanding access to combination prevention interventions and implementing strategies to enable people who use drugs to objectively assess their HIV risks are required. Additionally, community-based programs should collect data along the care continuum, to enable decentralized tracking of progress towards 90–90–90 goals at local levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitau Mburu
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Chanrith Ngin
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sovannary Tuot
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Pheak Chhoun
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Khuondyla Pal
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Siyan Yi
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. .,Center for Global Health Research, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA.
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Ayon S, Ndimbii J, Jeneby F, Abdulrahman T, Mlewa O, Wang B, Ragi A, Mburu G. Barriers and facilitators of access to HIV, harm reduction and sexual and reproductive health services by women who inject drugs: role of community-based outreach and drop-in centers. AIDS Care 2017; 30:480-487. [PMID: 29067855 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2017.1394965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
There is limited data regarding women who inject drugs, and how harm-reduction services can be made more women-centered. This study explored experiences of Kenyan women who inject drugs, with regard to access to HIV, harm reduction and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. A total of 45 women who inject drugs and 5 key stakeholders participated in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis of the data revealed that stigma, long distances, lack of confidentiality, user fees, multiple appointments, drug users' unfamiliarity with health facilities, disconnect in communication with healthcare providers, and healthcare providers' lack of understanding of women's needs were factors that impede women's access to health services. Community-based services, comprising of outreach and drop-in centers mitigate these barriers by building trust, educating women on their health and rights, linking women to health facilities, sensitizing health providers on the needs of women who inject drugs, and integrating women's SRH services into community-based harm-reduction outreach. Inclusion of SRH services into community-based harm-reduction activities increased women's interest and access to harm-reduction interventions. These findings underscore the need to strengthen community-based programming for women who inject drugs, and to integrate SRH services into needle and syringe exchange programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Ayon
- a Kenya AIDS NGO Consortium , Nairobi , Kenya
| | | | - Fatma Jeneby
- b Muslim Education and Welfare Association , Mombasa , Kenya
| | | | | | | | - Allan Ragi
- a Kenya AIDS NGO Consortium , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Gitau Mburu
- e Division of Health Research , University of Lancaster , UK
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