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Shen Y, Franks J, Reidy W, Olsen H, Wang C, Mushimbele N, Mazala RT, Tchissambou T, Malele F, Kilundu A, Bingham T, Djomand G, Mukinda E, Ewetola R, Abrams EJ, Teasdale CA. Pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake concerns in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Key population and healthcare workers perspectives. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280977. [PMID: 37917646 PMCID: PMC10621847 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Key populations (KP) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), including female sex workers (SW), are disproportionally affected by HIV. Quantitative feedback surveys were conducted at seven health facilities in DRC with 70 KP clients enrolled in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services to measure benefits and concerns. The surveys also assessed satisfaction with PrEP services and experiences of stigma at the health facilities. Thirty healthcare workers (HCW) were surveyed to measure attitudes, beliefs, and acceptability of providing services to KP. KP client survey participants were primarily female SW. KP clients reported that the primary concern about taking PrEP was fear of side effects (67%) although few KP reported having experienced side effect (14%). HCW concurred with clients that experienced and anticipated side effects were a primary PrEP uptake concern, along with costs of clinic visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhan Shen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, United States of America
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, CUNY SPH, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Julie Franks
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - William Reidy
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Halli Olsen
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Chunhui Wang
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Trista Bingham
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Gaston Djomand
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Elie Mukinda
- Democratic Republic of the Congo Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kinshasa, DRC
| | - Raimi Ewetola
- Democratic Republic of the Congo Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kinshasa, DRC
| | - Elaine J. Abrams
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Chloe A. Teasdale
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, United States of America
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, CUNY SPH, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
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2
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Zhang L, Song Y, Zheng X, Liu Y, Chen H. The experience of healthcare workers to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) implementation in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1224461. [PMID: 37693715 PMCID: PMC10484594 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1224461] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis has been extensively documented. However, there are substantial gaps between the actual implementation of pre-exposure prophylaxis and the ideal goal, especially in low-and middle-income countries. Healthcare workers play critical roles in the pre-exposure prophylaxis implementation, and they have more multi-level experiences about the barriers of pre-exposure prophylaxis implementation and how to facilitate it. However, the evidence aiming to synthesize their experiences is limited. Objective This study aims to aggregate the healthcare workers' experiences of providing pre-exposure prophylaxis in low-and middle-income countries, and find the barriers, facilitators, and recommendations of pre-exposure prophylaxis implementation. Methods The ENTREQ (Enhancing transparency in reporting the synthesis of qualitative research) statement was used to guide the design and reporting of this qualitative meta-synthesis. A comprehensive search was conducted from inception of databases to 16th March 2023 in four databases: PubMed, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Embase, Web of Science. The quality appraisal was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. JBI's meta-aggregation approach was used to guide the data extraction and synthesis, and the JBI ConQual approach was used to evaluate the evidence level of the synthesized findings. Results Fourteen articles with good methodological quality were included in this review. A total of 122 findings were extracted and 117 findings with credibility ratings of "unequivocal" or "equivocal" were included in this meta-synthesis. The eligible findings were aggregated into 13 new categories and subsequently developed into 3 synthesized findings: the barriers, facilitators, and recommendations of pre-exposure prophylaxis implementation in low-and middle-income countries. The overall ConQual score of all three synthesized findings was rated as "low." Conclusion This review aggregated the experience of health care workers implementing pre-exposure prophylaxis in low-and middle-income countries and we could focus on the following key points to promote the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis: improve knowledge about pre-exposure prophylaxis, create a supportive environment, address medication-related barriers, increase the human resources and financial investments, and diversify the providing models. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/. The protocol of this review has been registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, CRD42023411604).
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Affiliation(s)
- Liao Zhang
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuqing Song
- School of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xutong Zheng
- School of Nursing, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Liu
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Chen
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Goymann H, Mavuso M, McMahon SA, Hettema A, Hughey AB, Matse S, Dlamini P, Kahn K, Bärnighausen T, Jahn A, Bärnighausen K. 'We Should Not Be Quiet but We Should Talk': Qualitative Accounts of Community-Based Communication of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:842-856. [PMID: 37403738 PMCID: PMC10426252 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231181207] [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] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Community leaders play an important role in the acceptance of public health services, but little is known about their willingness to facilitate HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) roll-out in Eswatini. We conducted in-depth interviews (n = 25) with purposefully selected male and female community leaders in Eswatini. We analysed our data inductively using a thematic analysis approach. Community leaders feel they are important communicators of culturally appropriate PrEP messaging. Our participants described a complex social space within their communities influenced by religion, tradition, values, and HIV stigma. Community leaders use their position to provide leverage for unique, effective, and easily accessible messages and platforms to reach the community in a manner that ensures trust, relatability, familiarity, and shared faith. Community leaders feel that they are trusted and see trust manifesting in the conversations they are able to engage in, and have a reach that extends beyond formal health services. Existing PrEP programming should embed community leader participation in PrEP programming and engage the trust, knowledge, and potential of community leaders to support PrEP uptake and acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Goymann
- Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Africa Health Research Institute, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Albrecht Jahn
- Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kate Bärnighausen
- Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Chebet JJ, McMahon SA, Tarumbiswa T, Hlalele H, Maponga C, Mandara E, Ernst K, Alaofe H, Baernighausen T, Ehiri JE, Geldsetzer P, Nichter M. Motivations for pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake and decline in an HIV-hyperendemic setting: findings from a qualitative implementation study in Lesotho. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:43. [PMID: 37415180 PMCID: PMC10324220 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00535-x] [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: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has demonstrated clinical efficacy in preventing HIV infection, yet its uptake remains low. This study, conducted in five PrEP implementing districts in Lesotho, examined factors motivating persons at risk of HIV infection to adopt or reject PrEP when offered freely. METHODS In-depth interviews were undertaken with stakeholders directly engaged with PrEP policy (n = 5), program implementation (n = 4), and use (current PrEP users = 55, former PrEP users = 36, and PrEP decliners (n = 6)). Focus group discussions (n = 11, 105 total participants) were conducted with health staff directly providing HIV and PrEP services. RESULTS Demand for PrEP was reported highest among those at greatest risk for HIV acquisition: those in serodiscordant relationships and/or engaged in sex work. Culturally sensitive PrEP counseling was described as an opportunity to transfer knowledge, build trust, and address user concerns. Conversely, top-down counseling resulted in PrEP distrust and confusion about HIV status. Key motivations for PrEP uptake revolved around sustaining core social relationships, desire for safer conception, and caring for ailing relatives. The decline of PrEP initiation was driven by a combination of individual-level factors (risk perception, perceived side effects, disbelief of the drug's efficacy and PrEP's daily pill regimen), societal factors (lack of social support and HIV-related stigma), and structural factors related to PrEP access. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest strategies for effective national PrEP rollout and implementation include: (1) demand creation campaigns which highlight positive aspects of PrEP, while simultaneously addressing apprehensions for uptake; (2) strengthening health provider counseling capacity; and (3) addressing societal and structural HIV-related stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy J. Chebet
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ USA
| | - Shannon A. McMahon
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Social and Behavioral Interventions, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Kacey Ernst
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ USA
| | - Halimatou Alaofe
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ USA
| | - Till Baernighausen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Durban, South Africa
| | - John E. Ehiri
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ USA
| | - Pascal Geldsetzer
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Mark Nichter
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ USA
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ USA
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Basdav J, Reddy P, Haffejee F. Motivators for oral PrEP uptake and adherence in the eThekwini municipality, KwaZulu-Natal. AIDS Care 2023:1-16. [PMID: 37144287 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2208322] [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: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a single daily pill that prevents a seropositive HIV status. Since 2016, South Africa has staggered PrEP roll-out, with uptake levels not reaching optimal goals. The aim of this study was to determine motivation behind PrEP initiation and adherence among South African users. A phenomenological qualitative study (n = 15) was used. Participants were purposively recruited from two primary healthcare clinics in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Three themes were identified: motivation for PrEP uptake, PrEP adherence and PrEP awareness. Initiation was influenced by healthcare professionals. Responsibility for one's well-being, serodiscordant relationships and sexual partner's behavioural patterns contributed toward initiation. Most were fully compliant, using reminders to negate medication forgetfulness. The internet and healthcare professionals served as information sources, however, few were aware of PrEP prior to this. Innovative ways are required to increase awareness levels and increase uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotika Basdav
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Poovendhree Reddy
- Department of Community Health Studies, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Firoza Haffejee
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
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Hamoonga TE, Mutale W, Hill LM, Igumbor J, Chi BH. " PrEP protects us": Behavioural, normative, and control beliefs influencing pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake among pregnant and breastfeeding women in Zambia. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1084657. [PMID: 37152481 PMCID: PMC10154634 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1084657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women at elevated HIV risk, uptake has been low in Zambia. Methods In in-depth interviews, we explored beliefs about PrEP among 24 HIV-negative pregnant and breastfeeding Zambian women. Thematic analysis was used to identify behavioural, normative and control beliefs likely to influence PrEP uptake. Results Most women viewed PrEP as a good method of protecting themselves and their babies from HIV infection. Partners were cited as key referents in decision making about PrEP use. Many women felt that PrEP use was not entirely in their control. Most reported that they would not use PrEP if their partners did not approve. Health care providers with negative attitudes, long distance to clinics, and extended waiting times were cited as barriers to PrEP uptake. Conclusion HIV-negative pregnant and breastfeeding women had a positive attitude towards PrEP but barriers to uptake are multifaceted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Twaambo Euphemia Hamoonga
- School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Lauren M. Hill
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Jude Igumbor
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Benjamin H. Chi
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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7
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Daniels J, De Vos L, Bezuidenhout D, Atujuna M, Celum C, Hosek S, Bekker LG, Medina-Marino A. "I know why I am taking this pill": Young women navigation of disclosure and support for PrEP uptake and adherence in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0000636. [PMID: 36962727 PMCID: PMC10021316 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
There is limited understanding of the dynamic interplay between adolescent girl's and young women's (AGYW) disclosure and social support for using oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and adherence. Towards this, we conducted interviews with 42 AGYW enrolled in The Community PrEP Study who exhibited either high or low blood concentrations of tenofovir-diphosphate (TFV-DP) in dried blood spots. Guided by Theories of Practice, interviews and analysis focused on AGYW perspectives and experiences with PrEP disclosure, support and adherence. AGYW with high TFV-DP blood concentrations described larger social support networks and disclosure events. In contrast, those with low TFV-DP blood concentrations described disclosing to fewer people, resulting in limited social support. Participants discussed partner support, however, this support was not described as consequential to adherence, irrespective of TFV-DP levels. Those with high levels of TFV-DP in their blood described the ability to navigate social scrutiny and changes in social support, while those with low levels of TFV-DP in their blood were more likely to question their own continued use of PrEP. To facilitate AGYW's prevention-effective use of PrEP, expanded skill-building for disclosure and resiliency against changes to social support should be examined as part of PrEP services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Daniels
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Lindsey De Vos
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
| | - Dana Bezuidenhout
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, United States of America
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Connie Celum
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Sybil Hosek
- Departments of Psychiatry and Infectious Disease, Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andrew Medina-Marino
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Departments of Psychiatry and Infectious Disease, Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
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8
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Berner-Rodoreda A, Vandormael A, Bärnighausen K, Mavuso M, Dlamini P, Matse S, Hettema A, Bärnighausen T, McMahon SA. Cultural Repertoires and Situated Selections as an Alternative Framework to Hegemonic Masculinities: Findings From Eswatini. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231152110. [PMID: 36823951 PMCID: PMC9969463 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231152110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the 1980s studies on men have frequently utilized Connell's framework of hegemonic masculinities. We critically appraise this framework in the context of a population-based HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis study in Eswatini. Our findings highlight that men confidently show variation in their behavior and choices, which manifest across different men and within the same men acting in particular situations and over the life course. This led us to interrogate the hegemonic masculinities framework on the following grounds: Men's choices and behavior do not seem to fit the model of aspiring to a hegemonic ideal; the delineation of masculine traits as hegemonic or subordinate remain vague in terms of "responsibility," "fidelity," and "consideration for others"; the binary gender concept underpinning hegemonic masculinities seems outdated. Building on the work of Hirsch and Kachtan, we propose cultural repertoires as an alternative framework which also bridges the gender divide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alain Vandormael
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health,
Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kate Bärnighausen
- School of Public Health, University of
the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Sindy Matse
- Eswatini National AIDS Program,
Ministry of Health, Eswatini, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Anita Hettema
- Clinton Health Access Initiative
Eswatini, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health,
Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Shannon A. McMahon
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health,
Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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9
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Mudzingwa EK, de Vos L, Atujuna M, Fynn L, Mugore M, Hosek S, Celum C, Bekker LG, Daniels J, Medina-Marino A. Factors influencing adolescent girls and young women's uptake of community-based PrEP services following home-based HIV testing in Eastern Cape, South Africa: a qualitative study. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3726-3739. [PMID: 35653046 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03702-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Home-based service delivery has been used to improve access to HIV testing and antiretroviral initiation across sub-Saharan Africa, but it has yet to be leveraged to improve pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake. We interviewed 37 adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Eastern Cape, South Africa to explore why they chose to initiate PrEP or not following home-based HIV testing and referral for PrEP, and what influenced time to PrEP initiation. Participants reported that home visits provided a source of trusted information and a way to involve family members in their PrEP initiation decisions, motivating some to start PrEP. AGYW who initiated PrEP were more likely to qualitatively perceive themselves to be at high risk for HIV compared with those who never initiated PrEP. Integrating home-based HIV testing with PrEP education and referral may be a valuable way to reduce familial barriers and boost PrEP uptake among AGYW in South Africa. Trial registration: NCT03977181. Retrospectively registered on June 6, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Krogstad Mudzingwa
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Lindsey de Vos
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, Eastern Cape Province, Buffalo City Metro, South Africa
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lauren Fynn
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Matinatsa Mugore
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sybil Hosek
- Department of Psychiatry, Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joseph Daniels
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Andrew Medina-Marino
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, Eastern Cape Province, Buffalo City Metro, South Africa.
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, 10 Rochester Rd, Vincent, East London, South Africa.
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10
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Inghels M, Kim HY, Tanser F, Hettema A, McMahon SA, Oldenburg CE, Matse S, Kohler S, Geldsetzer P, Bärnighausen T. PrEP uptake and delivery setting preferences among clients visiting six healthcare facilities in Eswatini. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3345-3355. [PMID: 35429309 PMCID: PMC9474345 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03646-0] [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] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Due to the high HIV incidence among the general population of Eswatini, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-exposed individuals is recommended. However, little is known about PrEP uptake and preferences in PrEP delivery healthcare setting among the general population. We conducted a secondary analysis of a randomized trial that aimed to increase PrEP uptake. All clients eligible for PrEP in one of six public-sector healthcare facilities in Eswatini were included. PrEP uptake was stratified by initial reason for visit (e.g. outpatient). Preferences in PrEP delivery setting were collected among those clients who initiated PrEP. A total of 1782 clients had their HIV acquisition risk assessed. Of these, 72% (1277/1782) were considered at risk by healthcare providers and, among them, 40% (517/1277) initiated PrEP. Uptake was higher among clients visiting specifically to initiate PrEP (93%), followed by HIV testing visits (45.8%) and outpatient visits (40%). Among those who initiated PrEP, preferred delivery settings were outpatient services (31%), HIV testing services (26%), family planning (21%) and antenatal services (14%). Men or those at high risk of HIV acquisition were more likely to prefer HIV testing and outpatient services, while young women were more likely to visit and express a preference for antenatal and family planning services. Outpatient services and HIV testing services could be preferable choices for PrEP delivery integration, due to the high PrEP uptake and delivery setting preferences of the populations who use these services. Antenatal and family planning could also be considered with a view to targeting the youngest women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Inghels
- Lincoln International Institute for Rural Health, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, LN6 7TS, Lincoln, UK.
- Centre Population et Développement, UMR 196 Paris Descartes - IRD), SageSud (ERL INSERM 1244), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Paris, France.
| | - Hae-Young Kim
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- KwaZulu-Natal Innovation and Sequencing Platform, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
| | - Frank Tanser
- Lincoln International Institute for Rural Health, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, LN6 7TS, Lincoln, UK.
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Anita Hettema
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, H100, Mbabane, Eswatini, Swaziland.
| | - Shannon A McMahon
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 21205, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Catherine E Oldenburg
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, 94115, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, 94122, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, 94158, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Sindy Matse
- Eswatini Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini, Swaziland.
| | - Stefan Kohler
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité?Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Pascal Geldsetzer
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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11
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Ssempijja V, Nakigozi G, Ssekubugu R, Kagaayi J, Kigozi G, Nalugoda F, Nantume B, Batte J, Kigozi G, Yeh PT, Nakawooya H, Serwadda D, Quinn TC, Gray RH, Wawer MJ, Grabowski KM, Chang LW, van't Hoog A, Cobelens F, Reynolds SJ. High Rates of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Eligibility and Associated HIV Incidence in a Population With a Generalized HIV Epidemic in Rakai, Uganda. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:291-299. [PMID: 35259129 PMCID: PMC9177156 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The utility of using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) eligibility assessments to identify eligibility in general populations has not been well studied in sub-Saharan Africa. We used the Rakai Community Cohort Study to conduct a cross-sectional analysis to estimate PrEP eligibility and a cohort analysis to estimate HIV incidence associated with PrEP eligibility. METHODS Based on Uganda's national PrEP eligibility tool, we defined eligibility as reporting at least one of the following HIV risks in the past 12 months: sexual intercourse with more than one partner of unknown HIV status; nonmarital sex act without a condom; sex engagement in exchange for money, goods, or services; or experiencing genital ulcers. We used log-binomial and modified Poisson models to estimate prevalence ratios for PrEP eligibility and HIV incidence, respectively. FINDINGS We identified 12,764 participants among whom to estimate PrEP eligibility prevalence and 11,363 participants with 17,381 follow-up visits and 30,721 person-years (pys) of observation to estimate HIV incidence. Overall, 29% met at least one of the eligibility criteria. HIV incidence was significantly higher in PrEP-eligible versus non-PrEP-eligible participants (0.91/100 pys versus 0.41/100 pys; P < 0.001) and independently higher in PrEP-eligible versus non-PrEP-eligible female participants (1.18/100 pys versus 0.50/100 pys; P < 0.001). Among uncircumcised male participants, HIV incidence was significantly higher in PrEP-eligible versus non-PrEP-eligible participants (1.07/100 pys versus 0.27/100 pys; P = 0.001), but there was no significant difference for circumcised male participants. INTERPRETATION Implementing PrEP as a standard HIV prevention tool in generalized HIV epidemics beyond currently recognized high-risk key populations could further reduce HIV acquisition and aid epidemic control efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Ssempijja
- Clinical Monitoring Research Program Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda;
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - James Batte
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda;
| | | | - Ping Teresa Yeh
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - David Serwadda
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda;
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda;
| | - Thomas C. Quinn
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Ronald H. Gray
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda;
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Maria J. Wawer
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda;
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Kate M. Grabowski
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda;
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and
| | - Larry W. Chang
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda;
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Anja van't Hoog
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Frank Cobelens
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Steven J. Reynolds
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda;
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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12
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Roche SD, Barnabee G, Omollo V, Mogaka F, Odoyo J, Bukusi EA, Morton JF, Johnson R, Celum C, Baeten JM, O’Malley G. Implementation strategies for integrating pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention and family planning services for adolescent girls and young women in Kenya: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:422. [PMID: 35354456 PMCID: PMC8969252 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07742-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Across sub-Saharan Africa, ministries of health have proposed integrating pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention into family planning (FP) services to reach adolescent girls and young women (AGYW); however, evidence on effective implementation strategies is still limited. We conducted a qualitative study of integrated PrEP-FP service implementation at two FP clinics in Kisumu, Kenya. METHODS From June 2017 to May 2020, the Prevention Options for Women Evaluation Research (POWER) study enrolled 1000 sexually active, HIV-negative AGYW age 16 to 25. Actions taken to implement PrEP were captured prospectively in 214 monitoring and evaluation documents and 15 interviews with PrEP implementers. We analysed data using conventional and directed content analysis, with the latter informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) compilation. RESULTS POWER deployed a variety of implementation strategies to train and educate stakeholders (e.g., having new providers shadow PrEP providers); develop stakeholder interrelationships (e.g., organizing support teams with protected time to reflect on implementation progress and make refinements); provide technical assistance; and change physical infrastructure and workflow. Although these strategies reportedly influenced contextual factors across four of the five CFIR domains, they primarily interacted with contextual factors relevant to inner setting, especially implementation climate and readiness for implementation. Overall, implementing PrEP proved easier and less labor-intensive at a private, youth-friendly clinic than a public FP clinic, largely because the baseline structural characteristics (e.g., space, workflow) and organizational mission of the former were more conducive to offering AGYW-centered care. Nevertheless, adoption of PrEP delivery among non-study staff at both sites was low, likely due to the widespread perception that PrEP was not within their scope of work. CONCLUSIONS Some FP clinics may be "lower-hanging fruit" than others for PrEP implementation. Approaching PrEP implementation as a behavioral intervention for FP providers may help ensure that providers have the requisite capability, opportunity, and motivation to adopt the clinical innovation. In particular, PrEP implementers should assess the need for implementation strategies that support providers' clinical decision-making, establish worker expectations and accountability, and address workload constraints. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trial Number: NCT03490058 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie D. Roche
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
| | - Gena Barnabee
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
| | - Victor Omollo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Felix Mogaka
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jennifer F. Morton
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
| | - Rachel Johnson
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, USA
| | - Gabrielle O’Malley
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 USA
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13
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Harrison A, Bhengu N, Miller L, Exner T, Tesfay N, Magutshwa S, Khumalo S, Bergam S, Hoffman S, Hanass-Hancock J. “You tell him that ‘baby, I am protecting myself’”: Women’s agency and constraint around willingness to use pre-exposure prophylaxis in the Masibambane Study. WOMEN'S HEALTH 2022; 18:17455057221087117. [PMID: 35306944 PMCID: PMC8935570 DOI: 10.1177/17455057221087117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To explore women’s willingness to consider using pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention in the context of gendered relationship dynamics, in Durban, South Africa. Methods: As formative research prior to development of a gender-informed intervention to introduce pre-exposure prophylaxis to young, urban, educated women, we conducted six focus-group discussions and eight in-depth interviews with 46 women ages 18–25 years, who were not current pre-exposure prophylaxis users. Women were recruited from clinic and community settings using a criterion-based snowball sampling technique. Qualitative data were coded and analyzed thematically, with a team-based consensus approach for final coding, analytical decisions, and data interpretation. Results: Women clearly understood the benefits of pre-exposure prophylaxis for themselves and their partners, focusing on promoting health and their right to protect themselves from HIV infection. At the same time, and in accordance with findings from other studies, women were realistic about the concerns that would arise among male partners, including disapproval, loss of trust, possible loss of the relationship, and in some instances, the potential for violence, if they were to propose pre-exposure prophylaxis use. To resolve this tension, some women advocated for covert use as the best option for themselves and others argued for disclosure, proposing various approaches to working with partners to adopt pre-exposure prophylaxis. The suggestion that both partners use pre-exposure prophylaxis was made repeatedly. Thus, women sought to avoid discussions of trust or lack of trust and a partner’s possible infidelities, choosing instead to focus on preserving or even building a relationship through suggesting pre-exposure prophylaxis use. Conclusion: Women offered diverse narratives on agency and constraint in relation to choosing pre-exposure prophylaxis as a future prevention strategy, as well as ways to engage with their male partners about pre-exposure prophylaxis. These findings speak to the need for interventions to bolster women’s confidence, sense of empowerment, and their communication and decision-making skills for successful HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Harrison
- Brown University School of Public Health, Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Nonhlonipho Bhengu
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Lori Miller
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York, NY, USA
| | - Theresa Exner
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nonkululeko Tesfay
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Slindile Magutshwa
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Silindile Khumalo
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Scarlett Bergam
- Brown University, School of Public Health, International Health Institute, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Susie Hoffman
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jill Hanass-Hancock
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
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14
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Brault MA, Christie S, Aquino S, Rendin A, Manchia A, Curry LA, Linnander EL. Project Last Mile and the development of the Girl Champ brand in eSwatini: engaging the private sector to promote uptake of health services among adolescent girls and young women. SAHARA J 2021; 18:52-63. [PMID: 33685358 PMCID: PMC7946024 DOI: 10.1080/17290376.2021.1894224] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In eSwatini and across sub-Saharan Africa, adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are at significantly higher risk of HIV infection and poorer sexual and reproductive health (SRH) than their male counterparts. AGYW demonstrate low demand for SRH services, further contributing to poor outcomes. Strategic marketing approaches, including those used by multinational corporations, have potential to support demand creation for SRH services among AGYW, but there is limited empirical evidence on the direct application of private-sector strategic marketing approaches in this context. Therefore, we examined how Project Last Mile worked with eSwatini's Ministry of Heath to translate strategic marketing approaches from the Coca-Cola system to attract AGYW to SRH services. We present qualitative market research using the ZMET® methodology with 12 young Swazi women (ages 15-24), which informed development of a highly branded communication strategy consistent with other successful gain-framing approaches. Qualitative in-depth interviews with 19 stakeholders revealed receptivity to the market research findings, and highlighted local ownership over the strategic marketing process and brand. These results can inform similar efforts to translate strategic marketing to support demand generation in pursuit of public health goals to reduce HIV risk and improve SRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie A. Brault
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sarah Christie
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Global Health Leadership Initiative, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | | | | | | | - Leslie A. Curry
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Global Health Leadership Initiative, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Erika L. Linnander
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Global Health Leadership Initiative, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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15
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Ongolly FK, Dolla A, Ngure K, Irungu EM, Odoyo J, Wamoni E, Peebles K, Mugwanya K, Mugo NR, Bukusi EA, Morton J, Baeten JM, O’Malley G. "I Just Decided to Stop:" Understanding PrEP Discontinuation Among Individuals Initiating PrEP in HIV Care Centers in Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 87:e150-e158. [PMID: 33492024 PMCID: PMC8026512 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) discontinuation rates in clinical trials and demonstration projects have been well characterized; however, little is known about discontinuation in routine public health settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding discontinuation in nonstudy settings is important for establishing expectations for PrEP continuation in national programs and for facilitating effective PrEP scale-up. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with 46 individuals who had initiated PrEP at 25 HIV comprehensive care clinics (CCCs) in central and western Kenya and whose clinic records indicated they had discontinued. RESULTS Many of our study participants discontinued PrEP when their perceived risk decreased (eg, hiatus or end of a sexual relationship or partner known to be living with HIV became virally suppressed). Others reported discontinuation due to side effects, daily pill burden, preference for condoms, or their partner's insistence. Participant narratives frequently described facility level factors such as stigma-related discomforts with accessing PrEP at CCCs, inconvenient clinic location or operating hours, long wait times, and short refill dates as discouraging factors, suggesting actionable areas for improving PrEP access and continuation. CONCLUSION Clients frequently make intentional decisions to discontinue PrEP as they weigh different prevention options within the context of complex lives. Many clients will decide to discontinue PrEP when perceiving themselves to be at reduced risk and PrEP counseling must include provisions for addressing seasons of risk. PrEP will not be the right prevention method for everyone, or forever. Expanding PrEP access points and increasing sex-positive messaging may facilitate PrEP being a better option for many.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annabel Dolla
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth M. Irungu
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Wamoni
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kathryn Peebles
- Department of Epidemiology, Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kenneth Mugwanya
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nelly R. Mugo
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jennifer Morton
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute; Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gabrielle O’Malley
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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16
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Muhumuza R, Ssemata AS, Kakande A, Ahmed N, Atujuna M, Nomvuyo M, Bekker LG, Dietrich JJ, Tshabalala G, Hornschuh S, Maluadzi M, Chibanda-Stranix L, Nematadzira T, Weiss HA, Nash S, Fox J, Seeley J. Exploring Perceived Barriers and Facilitators of PrEP Uptake among Young People in Uganda, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:1729-1742. [PMID: 33954824 PMCID: PMC8213546 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01880-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective HIV prevention strategy. Few studies have explored adolescents and young people's perspectives toward PrEP. We conducted 24 group discussions and 60 in-depth interviews with males and females aged 13-24 years in Uganda, Zimbabwe, and South Africa between September 2018 and February 2019. We used the framework approach to generate themes and key concepts for analysis following the social ecological model. Young people expressed a willingness to use PrEP and identified potential barriers and facilitators of PrEP uptake. Barriers included factors at individual (fear of HIV, fear of side effects, and PrEP characteristics), interpersonal (parental influence, absence of a sexual partner), community (peer influence, social stigma), institutional (long waiting times at clinics, attitudes of health workers), and structural (cost of PrEP and mode of administration, accessibility concerns) levels. Facilitators included factors at individual (high HIV risk perception and preventing HIV/desire to remain HIV negative), interpersonal (peer influence, social support and care for PrEP uptake), community (adequate PrEP information and sensitization, evidence of PrEP efficacy and safety), institutional (convenient and responsive services, provision of appropriate and sufficiently resourced services), and structural (access and availability of PrEP, cost of PrEP) levels. The findings indicated that PrEP is an acceptable HIV prevention method. PrEP uptake is linked to personal and environmental factors that need to be considered for successful PrEP roll-out. Multi-level interventions needed to promote PrEP uptake should consider the social and structural drivers and focus on ways that can inspire PrEP uptake and limit the barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Muhumuza
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Andrew Sentoogo Ssemata
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ayoub Kakande
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Nadia Ahmed
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mangxilana Nomvuyo
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Janan Janine Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gugulethu Tshabalala
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Stefanie Hornschuh
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mamakiri Maluadzi
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Helen Anne Weiss
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Stephen Nash
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julie Fox
- Department of Infectious Diseases, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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17
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Berner-Rodoreda A, Geldsetzer P, Bärnighausen K, Hettema A, Bärnighausen T, Matse S, McMahon SA. "It's hard for us men to go to the clinic. We naturally have a fear of hospitals." Men's risk perceptions, experiences and program preferences for PrEP: A mixed methods study in Eswatini. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237427. [PMID: 32966307 PMCID: PMC7510987 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Few studies on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) have focused on men who have sex with women. We present findings from a mixed-methods study in Eswatini, the country with the highest HIV prevalence in the world (27%). Our findings are based on risk assessments, in-depth interviews and focus-group discussions which describe men’s motivations for taking up or declining PrEP. Quantitatively, men self-reported starting PrEP because they had multiple or sero-discordant partners or did not know the partner’s HIV-status. Men’s self-perception of risk was echoed in the qualitative data, which revealed that the hope of facilitated sexual performance or relations, a preference for pills over condoms and the desire to protect themselves and others also played a role for men to initiate PrEP. Trust and mistrust and being able or unable to speak about PrEP with partner(s) were further considerations for initiating or declining PrEP. Once on PrEP, men’s sexual behavior varied in terms of number of partners and condom use. Men viewed daily pill-taking as an obstacle to starting PrEP. Side-effects were a major reason for men to discontinue PrEP. Men also worried that taking anti-retroviral drugs daily might leave them mistaken for a person living with HIV, and viewed clinic-based PrEP education and initiation processes as a further obstacle. Given that men comprise only 29% of all PrEP users in Eswatini, barriers to men’s uptake of PrEP will need to be addressed, in terms of more male-friendly services as well as trialing community-based PrEP education and service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pascal Geldsetzer
- Institute of Global Health, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Kate Bärnighausen
- Institute of Global Health, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
- University of the Witwatersrand School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anita Hettema
- Clinton Health Access Initiative Swaziland, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Institute of Global Health, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sindy Matse
- Eswatini Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Shannon A. McMahon
- Institute of Global Health, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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18
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Irungu EM, Baeten JM. PrEP rollout in Africa: status and opportunity. Nat Med 2020; 26:655-664. [PMID: 32405065 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-0872-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Following recommendations by the World Health Organization in 2015, and key clinical trials, countries in sub-Saharan Africa, the region with the highest burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), developed policies that incorporate pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) into national HIV-prevention strategies. By the end of 2019, more than one third of people receiving PrEP globally were in Africa. Crucial understandings gained from early rollout among at-risk populations, such as HIV-serodiscordant couples, adolescent girls and young women, female sex workers, and men who have sex with men, include the importance of strategies for maintaining persistent adherence to PrEP and novel approaches to making PrEP services accessible, simplified and efficient. This Perspective will discuss the current status of these programs and how to further widen their implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Irungu
- College of Health Sciences, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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