1
|
Medina-Jaudes N, Adoa D, Williams A, Amulen C, Carmone A, Dowling S, Joseph J, Katureebe C, Nabitaka V, Musoke A, Namusoke Magongo E, Nabwire Chimulwa T. Predicting Lost to Follow-Up Status Using an Adolescent HIV Psychosocial Attrition Risk Assessment Tool: Results From a Mixed Methods Prospective Cohort Study in Uganda. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:439-446. [PMID: 38180899 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low retention in care for adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) has been a key driver of suboptimal viral load suppression rates in Uganda. The objective of this study was to develop a psychosocial risk assessment tool and evaluate its ability to predict the risk of attrition of ALHIV between the ages 15 and 19 years. SETTING The study was conducted in 20 facilities in Central and Western Uganda from August 2021 through July 2022. METHODS A mixed methods prospective cohort study was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, the Adolescent Psychosocial Attrition Risk Assessment tool was developed and revised using feedback from focus group discussions and interviews. In the second phase, the ability of the Adolescent Psychosocial Attrition Risk Assessment tool to predict attrition among ALHIV was evaluated using diagnostic accuracy tests. RESULTS A total of 597 adolescents between the ages 15 and 19 years were enrolled, of which 6% were lost to follow-up at the end of the study period. A 20-question tool was developed, with 12 questions being responded to affirmatively by >50% of all participants. Using a cut-off score of 6 or more affirmative answers translated to an area under the curve of 0.58 (95% CI: 0.49 to 0.66), sensitivity of 55% (95% CI: 36% to 72%), and specificity of 61% (95% CI: 56% to 65%). CONCLUSION Although the Adolescent Psychosocial Attrition Risk Assessment tool was not effective at predicting lost to follow-up status among ALHIV, the tool was useful for identifying psychosocial issues experienced by ALHIV and may be appropriate to administer during routine care visits to guide action.
Collapse
|
2
|
Kose J, Howard T, Lenz C, Masaba R, Akuno J, Woelk G, Fraaij PL, Rakhmanina N. Experiences of adolescents and youth with HIV testing and linkage to care through the Red Carpet Program (RCP) in Kenya. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296786. [PMID: 38241210 PMCID: PMC10798534 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296786] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Adolescents and youth living with HIV (AYLHIV) experience worse health outcomes compared to adults. We aimed to understand the experiences of AYLHIV in care in the youth-focused Red-Carpet program in Kenya to assess the quality of service provision and identify programmatic areas for optimization. We conducted focus group discussions among 39 AYLHIV (15-24 years) and structured analysis into four thematic areas. Within the HIV testing theme, participants cited fear of positive results, confidentiality and stigma concerns, and suggested engaging the community and youth in HIV testing opportunities. Within the HIV treatment adherence theme, participants cited forgetfulness, stigma, adverse side effects, lack of family support, and treatment illiteracy as barriers to adherence. Most participants reported positive experiences with healthcare providers and peer support. In terms of the HIV status disclosure theme, AYLHIV cited concerns about their future capacity to conceive children and start families and discussed challenges with understanding HIV health implications and sharing their status with friends and partners. Youth voices informing service implementation are essential in strengthening our capacity to optimize the support for AYLHIV within the community, at schools and healthcare facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith Kose
- Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
- Erasmus MC, Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tyriesa Howard
- Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Cosima Lenz
- Technical Strategy and Innovation, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Rose Masaba
- Country Program, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Job Akuno
- Country Program, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Godfrey Woelk
- Research Department, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Pieter Leendert Fraaij
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Division, Erasmus MC-Sophia/ Erasmus University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Natella Rakhmanina
- Technical Strategy and Innovation, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bosma CB, Toromo JJ, Ayers MJ, Foster ED, McHenry M, Enane LA. Effects of economic interventions on pediatric and adolescent HIV care outcomes: a systematic review. AIDS Care 2024; 36:1-16. [PMID: 37607246 PMCID: PMC10843852 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2240071] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Economic insecurity and poverty present major barriers to HIV care for young people. We conducted a systematic review of the current evidence for the effect of economic interventions on HIV care outcomes among pediatric populations encompassing young children, adolescents, and youth (ages 0-24). We conducted a search of PubMed MEDLINE, Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Global Health databases on October 12, 2022 using a search strategy curated by a medical librarian. Studies included economic interventions targeting participants <25 years in age which measured clinical HIV outcomes. Study characteristics, care outcomes, and quality were independently assessed, and findings were synthesized. Title/abstract screening was performed for 1934 unique records. Thirteen studies met inclusion criteria, reporting on nine distinct interventions. Economic interventions included incentives (n = 5), savings and lending programs (n = 3), and government cash transfers (n = 1). Study designs included three randomized controlled trials, an observational cohort study, a matched retrospective cohort study, and pilot intervention studies. While evidence is very limited, some promising findings were observed supporting retention and viral suppression, particularly for those with suboptimal care engagement or with detectable viral load. There is a need to further study and optimize economic interventions for children and adolescents living with HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher B. Bosma
- Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Judith J. Toromo
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Morgan J. Ayers
- Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Erin D. Foster
- Ruth Lilly Medical Library, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Berkeley Library, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Megan McHenry
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Indiana University Center for Global Health Equity, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Leslie A. Enane
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Indiana University Center for Global Health Equity, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ingabire C, Watnick D, Gasana J, Umwiza F, Munyaneza A, Kubwimana G, Murenzi G, Anastos K, Adedimeji A, Ross J. Experiences of stigma and HIV care engagement in the context of Treat All in Rwanda: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1817. [PMID: 37726734 PMCID: PMC10507909 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16752-y] [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: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 'Treat All' policies recommending immediate antiretroviral therapy (ART) soon after HIV diagnosis for all people living with HIV (PLHIV) are now ubiquitous in sub-Saharan Africa. While early ART initiation and retention is effective at curtailing disease progression and transmission, evidence suggests that stigma may act as a barrier to engagement in care. This study sought to understand the relationships between HIV stigma and engagement in care for PLHIV in Rwanda in the context of Treat All. METHODS Between September 2018 and March 2019, we conducted semi-structured, qualitative interviews with adult PLHIV receiving care at two health centers in Kigali, Rwanda. We used a grounded theory approach to data analysis to develop conceptual framework describing how stigma influences HIV care engagement in the context of early Treat All policy implementation in Rwanda. RESULTS Among 37 participants, 27 (73%) were women and the median age was 31 years. Participants described how care engagement under Treat All, including taking medications and attending appointments, increased their visibility as PLHIV. This served to normalize HIV and use of ART but also led to high levels of anticipated stigma in the health center and community at early stages of treatment. Enacted stigma from family and community members and resultant internalized stigma acted as additional barriers to care engagement. Nonetheless, participants described how psychosocial support from care providers and family members helped them cope with stigma and promoted continued engagement in care. CONCLUSIONS Treat All policy in Rwanda has heightened the visibility of HIV at the individual and social levels, which has influenced HIV stigma, normalization, psychosocial support and care engagement in complex ways. Leveraging the individual and community support described by PLHIV to deliver evidence-based, peer or provider-delivered stigma reduction interventions may aid in attaining Treat All goals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles Ingabire
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda.
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Dana Watnick
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Josephine Gasana
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Francine Umwiza
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Athanase Munyaneza
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gallican Kubwimana
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gad Murenzi
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Adebola Adedimeji
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Ross
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Goldstein MH, Moore S, Mohamed M, Byrd R, Curtis MG, Rice WS, Camacho-Gonzalez A, Zanoni BC, Hussen SA. A qualitative analysis examining intersectional stigma among young adults living with HIV in Atlanta, Georgia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289821. [PMID: 37561729 PMCID: PMC10414665 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289821] [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: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV-related stigma is a barrier to engagement in care for young adults living with HIV. Other intersecting forms of stigma (e.g., racism, sexism, homophobia), may worsen HIV-related stigma and impact engagement in care. From November 2020 to February 2021, we conducted 20 in-depth qualitative interviews among young adults living with HIV attending a large, comprehensive HIV care center in Atlanta, Georgia. Semi-structured interview guides based on Earnshaw and Chaudoir's HIV Stigma Framework and the theory of intersectionality facilitated discussion around experiences with various forms of stigma and its possible influence on healthcare engagement. Using the social-ecological model, we used thematic analysis to contextualize how young adults living with HIV experienced intersectional stigma and enacted, anticipated, and internalized HIV stigma in both healthcare and non-healthcare settings. Most participants identified as male, Black/African American, and gay. Participants described stigma at intrapersonal, interpersonal, clinic, and community levels. Intrapersonal stigma was associated with delayed care seeking, isolation, and fear of disclosure. Interpersonal stigma included discrimination from family and friends and avoidance of close relationships to elude disclosure. At the clinic level, stigma included negative experiences with staff in HIV and non-HIV healthcare settings, which contributed to decreased engagement in care. Stigma in the community included differential treatment from employers, community leaders, and religious community and was associated with feelings of helplessness related to current societal inequalities. Coping/motivating mechanisms for stigma included prioritizing health, eliciting support from the medical care team and peers. Our findings show different intersecting stigmas are barriers to healthcare at multiple levels for young adults living with HIV, potentially exacerbating existing health and social disparities. To improve engagement in care among young adults living with HIV, future interventions should address the different mechanisms of stigma at community, clinic, interpersonal and intrapersonal levels by enhancing social support and improving healthcare structural competency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine H. Goldstein
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Shamia Moore
- Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Munira Mohamed
- College of Arts and Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Rosalind Byrd
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Michael G. Curtis
- Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Whitney S. Rice
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Andres Camacho-Gonzalez
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Brian C. Zanoni
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Sophia A. Hussen
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Govender K, Nyamaruze P, Cowden RG, Pillay Y, Bekker LG. Children and young women in eastern and southern Africa are key to meeting 2030 HIV targets: time to accelerate action. Lancet HIV 2023; 10:e343-e350. [PMID: 37149293 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(23)00012-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
New HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths among children and adolescent girls and young women (aged 15-24 years) in eastern and southern Africa continue to occur at unacceptably high rates. The COVID-19 pandemic has also severely undermined ongoing initiatives for HIV prevention and treatment, threatening to set the region back further in its efforts to end AIDS by 2030. Major impediments exist to attaining the UNAIDS 2025 targets among children, adolescent girls, young women, young mothers living with HIV, and young female sex workers residing in eastern and southern Africa. Each population has specific but overlapping needs with regard to diagnosis and linkage to and retention in care. Urgent action is needed to intensify and improve programmes for HIV prevention and treatment, including sexual and reproductive health services for adolescent girls and young women, HIV-positive young mothers, and young female sex workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaymarlin Govender
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division, School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
| | - Patrick Nyamaruze
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division, School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Richard G Cowden
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yogan Pillay
- Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chiang SS, Waterous PM, Atieno VF, Bernays S, Bondarenko Y, Cruz AT, de Oliveira MCB, Del Castillo Barrientos H, Enimil A, Ferlazzo G, Ferrand RA, Furin J, Hoddinott G, Isaakidis P, Kranzer K, Maleche-Obimbo E, Mansoor H, Marais BJ, Mohr-Holland E, Morales M, Nguyen AP, Oliyo JO, Sant'Anna CC, Sawyer SM, Schaaf HS, Seddon JA, Sharma S, Skrahina A, Starke JR, Triasih R, Tsogt B, Welch H, Enane LA. Caring for Adolescents and Young Adults With Tuberculosis or at Risk of Tuberculosis: Consensus Statement From an International Expert Panel. J Adolesc Health 2023; 72:323-331. [PMID: 36803849 PMCID: PMC10265598 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Background: Despite being a preventable and treatable disease, tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of death among young people globally. Each year, an estimated 1.8 million adolescents and young adults (AYAs; 10–24 years old) develop TB. In 2019, an estimated 161,000 AYAs died of the disease. AYAs have unique developmental, psychosocial, and healthcare needs, but these needs have been neglected in both TB care and research agendas. In order to improve outcomes in this age group, the specific needs of AYAs must be considered and addressed. Methods: Through a consensus process, an international panel of 34 clinicians, researchers, TB survivors, and advocates with expertise in child/adolescent TB and/or adolescent health proposed interventions for optimizing AYA engagement in TB care. The process consisted of reviewing the literature on TB in AYAs; identifying and discussing priority areas; and drafting and revising proposed interventions until consensus, defined a priori , was reached. Results: The panel acknowledged the dearth of evidence on best practices for identifying and managing AYAs with TB. The final consensus statement, based on expert opinion, proposes nine interventions to reform current practices that may harm AYA health and well-being, and nine interventions to establish high-quality AYA-centered TB services. Conclusion: AYA-specific interventions for TB care and research are critical for improving outcomes in this age group. In the absence of evidence on best practices, this consensus statement from an international group of experts can help address the needs of AYA with TB or at risk for TB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia S Chiang
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island.
| | - Patricia M Waterous
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sarah Bernays
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yaroslava Bondarenko
- Department of Phthisiology and Pulmonology, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Andrea T Cruz
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Márcia C B de Oliveira
- Department of Pediatrics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Department of Pediatrics, Souza Marques School of Medicine, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Anthony Enimil
- Child Health Department, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana; Child Health Directorate, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Gabriella Ferlazzo
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa; Médecins Sans Frontières, Mumbai, India
| | - Rashida Abbas Ferrand
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom; Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jennifer Furin
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Sentinel Project on Pediatric Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Graeme Hoddinott
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Petros Isaakidis
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa; Médecins Sans Frontières, Mumbai, India
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | - Ben J Marais
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Clemax Couto Sant'Anna
- Department of Pediatrics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Susan M Sawyer
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Peadiatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - H Simon Schaaf
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - James A Seddon
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sangeeta Sharma
- Department of Paediatrics, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases, New Delhi, India
| | - Alena Skrahina
- Clinical Department, The Republican Research and Practica Centre for Pulmonology and TB, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Jeffrey R Starke
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Rina Triasih
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada/Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Henry Welch
- Department of Pediatrics, Souza Marques School of Medicine, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea; Port Moresby General Hospital, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Leslie A Enane
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Global Health, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indianapolis, Indiana.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Beres LK, Mwamba C, Bolton-Moore C, Kennedy CE, Simbeza S, Topp SM, Sikombe K, Mukamba N, Mody A, Schwartz SR, Geng E, Holmes CB, Sikazwe I, Denison JA. Trajectories of re-engagement: factors and mechanisms enabling patient return to HIV care in Zambia. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26067. [PMID: 36840391 PMCID: PMC9958345 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While disengagement from HIV care threatens the health of persons living with HIV (PLWH) and incidence-reduction targets, re-engagement is a critical step towards positive outcomes. Studies that establish a deeper understanding of successful return to clinical care among previously disengaged PLWH and the factors supporting re-engagement are essential to facilitate long-term care continuity. METHODS We conducted narrative, patient-centred, in-depth interviews between January and June 2019 with 20 PLWH in Lusaka, Zambia, who had disengaged and then re-engaged in HIV care, identified through electronic medical records (EMRs). We applied narrative analysis techniques, and deductive and inductive thematic analysis to identify engagement patterns and enablers of return. RESULTS We inductively identified five trajectories of care engagement, suggesting patterns in patient characteristics, experienced barriers and return facilitators that may aid intervention targeting including: (1) intermittent engagement;(2) mostly engaged; (3) delayed linkage after testing; (4) needs time to initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART); and (5) re-engagement with ART initiation. Patient-identified periods of disengagement from care did not always align with care gaps indicated in the EMR. Key, interactive re-engagement facilitators experienced by participants, with varied importance across trajectories, included a desire for physical wellness and social support manifested through verbal encouragement, facility outreach or personal facility connections and family instrumental support. The mechanisms through which facilitators led to return were: (1) the promising of living out one's life priorities; (2) feeling valued; (3) fostering interpersonal accountability; (4) re-entry navigation support; (5) facilitated care and treatment access; and (6) management of significant barriers, such as depression. CONCLUSIONS While preliminary, the identified trajectories may guide interventions to support re-engagement, such as offering flexible ART access to patients with intermittent engagement patterns instead of stable patients only. Further, for re-engagement interventions to achieve impact, they must activate mechanisms underlying re-engagement behaviours. For example, facility outreach that reminds a patient to return to care but does not affirm a patient's value or navigate re-entry is unlikely to be effective. The demonstrated importance of positive health facility connections reinforces a growing call for patient-centred care. Additionally, interventions should consider the important role communities play in fostering treatment motivation and overcoming practical barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Beres
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chanda Mwamba
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Carolyn Bolton-Moore
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Caitlin E Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sandra Simbeza
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Stephanie M Topp
- College of Public Health Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kombatende Sikombe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Public Health Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Njekwa Mukamba
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Aaloke Mody
- University of Washington St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sheree R Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elvin Geng
- University of Washington St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Charles B Holmes
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Izukanji Sikazwe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Julie A Denison
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mental Health Problems Across the HIV Care Continuum for Adolescents Living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review. AIDS Behav 2023:10.1007/s10461-023-03981-w. [PMID: 36650389 PMCID: PMC10350473 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-03981-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Mental health problems (e.g., anxiety, depression) are frequently experienced by adolescents living with HIV (ALWH) and can worsen HIV-related outcomes. This scoping review synthesizes the existing research on ALWHs' mental health problems at multiple steps along the HIV care continuum in sub-Saharan Africa. Searching PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO identified 34 peer-reviewed studies that met inclusion criteria. Most studies assessed ALWHs' mental health problems at the "Engaged or Retained in Care" continuum step, are cross-sectional, focus on depression and anxiety, and used measures developed in high-income countries. Studies identify mental health problems among ALWH as prevalent and barriers to care. Significant gaps remain in understanding how mental health problems and their relationships with HIV-related health outcomes shift across the continuum. Additional attention is needed, especially at the HIV testing and viral suppression steps, to generate a more comprehensive understanding of mental health needs and priority timepoints for intervention for ALWH.
Collapse
|
10
|
Carries S, Mkhwanazi Z, Sigwadhi L, Moshabela M, Nyirenda M, Goudge J, Govindasamy D. An economic incentive package to support the wellbeing of caregivers of adolescents living with HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa: a feasibility study protocol for a pilot randomised trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:3. [PMID: 36624520 PMCID: PMC9827020 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01237-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mental and financial strain linked to unpaid caregiving has been amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic. In sub-Saharan Africa, carers of adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) are critical for maintenance of optimum HIV treatment outcomes. However, the ability of caregivers to provide quality care to ALHIV is undermined by their ability to maintain their own wellbeing due to multiple factors (viz. poverty, stigma, lack of access to social support services) which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic incentives, such as cash incentives combined with SMS reminders, have been shown to improve wellbeing. However, there is a lack of preliminary evidence on the potential of economic incentives to promote caregiver wellbeing in this setting, particularly in the context of a pandemic. This protocol outlines the design of a parallel-group pilot randomised trial comparing the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of an economic incentive package versus a control for improving caregiver wellbeing. METHODS Caregivers of ALHIV will be recruited from public-sector HIV clinics in the south of the eThekwini municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the following groups: (i) the intervention group (n = 50) will receive three cash payments (of ZAR 350, approximately 23 USD), coupled with a positive wellbeing message over a 3-month period; (ii) the control group (n = 50) will receive a standard message encouraging linkage to health services. Participants will be interviewed at baseline and at endline (12 weeks) to collect socio-demographic, food insecurity, health status, mental health (stigma, depressive symptoms) and wellbeing data. The primary outcome measure, caregiver wellbeing, will be measured using the CarerQoL instrument. A qualitative study will be conducted alongside the main trial to understand participant views on participation in the trial and their feedback on study activities. DISCUSSION This study will provide scientific direction for the design of a larger randomised controlled trial exploring the effects of an economic incentive for improving caregiver wellbeing. The feasibility of conducting study activities and delivering the intervention remotely in the context of a pandemic will also be provided. TRIAL REGISTRATION PACTR202203585402090. Registry name: Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR); URL: https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/ ; Registration. date: 24 March 2022 (retrospectively registered); Date first participant enrolled: 03 November 2021.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stanley Carries
- grid.415021.30000 0000 9155 0024Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Zibuyisile Mkhwanazi
- grid.415021.30000 0000 9155 0024Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lovemore Sigwadhi
- grid.11956.3a0000 0001 2214 904XBiostatistics Unit, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Mosa Moshabela
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Makandwe Nyirenda
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa ,grid.415021.30000 0000 9155 0024Burden of Disease Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jane Goudge
- grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135Centre for Health Policy, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Darshini Govindasamy
- grid.415021.30000 0000 9155 0024Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Nagenda MC, Crowley T. Contextual Factors Influencing Self-Management of Adolescents and Youth Living with HIV: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Lesotho. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:238. [PMID: 36612559 PMCID: PMC9819797 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Background: HIV treatment outcomes of adolescents and youth living with HIV (AYLWH) are lagging. One way to improve outcomes is through supporting AYLWH to acquire self-management skills. Although self-management is associated with improved health outcomes, condition-specific, individual/family, and social/environmental contextual factors influence self-management. We aimed to describe factors influencing the self-management of AYLWH in Lesotho. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used. AYLWH (n = 183) aged 15−24 were conveniently sampled from two HIV treatment sites in Lesotho. Participants completed self-report questionnaires in English or Sesotho. Results: Participants (89.1% female) had high HIV self-management scores (mean 92.7%, SD 5.3%) that corresponded with treatment outcomes (98.9% adherent and 100% viral load < 1000 copies/mL). This might be attributed to condition-specific factors, including once-daily doses (100%) and longer duration of treatment (81.4% on ART for more than 10 years). Participants were older (median age 22), and the majority (61.7%) had stable living conditions. Individual strengths were associated with higher self-management scores (p < 0.01) and mental health problems with lower self-management scores (p < 0.05). Most (97.9%) were satisfied with their health care services. Conclusions: Uncomplicated treatment regimens, longer duration of treatment, stable living conditions, individual strengths, good mental health, and satisfaction with healthcare services have a positive influence on self-management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mapaseka Chabalala Nagenda
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Talitha Crowley
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Antelman G, Jahanpour O, Machalo T, Audi C, van de Ven R, Rutaihwa M, Lankiewicz E, Baird S. Adolescent support club attendance and self-efficacy associated with HIV treatment outcomes in Tanzania. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000065. [PMID: 36962483 PMCID: PMC10021176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
HIV treatment outcomes may be improved by ameliorating psychosocial challenges adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) face. This analysis describes participation in existing facility-based adolescent clubs and the associations between club attendance, adolescent well-being and HIV treatment outcomes. Data were collected through interviews with a sub-sample of adolescents age 10-19 years and medical record abstraction of all adolescents attending HIV services at seven clinics in Tanzania. Independent variables included adolescent club attendance, self-esteem, self-efficacy, mental distress, social capital and other health utilization or HIV experience characteristics. Study outcomes included visit adherence, viral suppression (<1000 cp/ml), and retention. Of 645 adolescents attending HIV services, 75% attended clubs at least once with a median of eight club sessions attended over a two-year period. Mental distress was prevalent, with 67% of the adolescents scoring above a recognized cut-off of ≥5. Adolescents who attended 10 or more clubs, compared to those not attending any clubs over a two-year period were at an almost three-fold increased odds of having good visit adherence (odds ratio [OR] 2.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25, 5.94). Club attendance was also associated with sustained retention in the following year: adolescents who attended some clubs (1-9) had three-times the odds of being retained (OR 3.01; 95%CI: 1.86, 4.87) while those who attended 10+ had over seven-times the odds (OR 7.29; 95%CI: 4.34, 12.22). Among the 154 adolescents who were interviewed, being in the top self-efficacy tertile was positively associated with viral suppression (OR 3.04, 95%CI: 1.08, 8.60) and retention (OR 4.44, 95%CI: 1.19, 17.40). Attending the HIV clinic with a guardian/treatment supporter (OR 3.29, 95%CI: 1.17, 9.22) was also associated with viral suppression. Self-efficacy, social capital and treatment support are associated with better health outcomes among adolescents. However, many ALHIV either never attended or did not regularly attend clubs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ola Jahanpour
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AID Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Thomas Machalo
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AID Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Cosette Audi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AID Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | | | | | - Elise Lankiewicz
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Sarah Baird
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hendricks LA, Young T, Van Wyk SS, Matheï C, Hannes K. Storyboarding HIV Infected Young People's Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in Lower- to Upper Middle-Income Countries: A New-Materialist Qualitative Evidence Synthesis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11317. [PMID: 36141589 PMCID: PMC9517626 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Young people living with perinatal infections of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (YLPHIV) face a chronic disease, with treatment including adherence to lifelong antiretroviral treatment (ART). The aim of this QES was to explore adherence to ART for YLPHIV as an assemblage within the framework of the biopsychosocial model with a new materialist perspective. We searched up to November 2021 and followed the ENTREQ and Cochrane guidelines for QES. All screening, data extraction, and critical appraisal were done in duplicate. We analysed and interpreted the findings innovatively by creating images of meaning, a storyboard, and storylines. We then reported the findings in a first-person narrative story. We included 47 studies and identified 9 storylines. We found that treatment adherence has less to do with humans' preferences, motivations, needs, and dispositions and more to do with how bodies, viruses, things, ideas, institutions, environments, social processes, and social structures assemble. This QES highlights that adherence to ART for YLPHIV is a multisensorial experience in a multi-agentic world. Future research into rethinking the linear and casual inferences we are accustomed to in evidence-based health care is needed if we are to adopt multidisciplinary approaches to address pressing issues such as adherence to ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynn A. Hendricks
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 3000, South Africa
- Research Group SoMeTHin’K (Social, Methodological and Theoretical Innovation/Kreative), Faculty of Social Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Taryn Young
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 3000, South Africa
| | - Susanna S. Van Wyk
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 3000, South Africa
| | - Catharina Matheï
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Katholieke Universiteit, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karin Hannes
- Research Group SoMeTHin’K (Social, Methodological and Theoretical Innovation/Kreative), Faculty of Social Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Burns R, Venables E, Odhoch L, Kocholla L, Wanjala S, Mucinya G, Bossard C, Wringe A. Slipping through the cracks: a qualitative study to explore pathways of HIV care and treatment amongst hospitalised patients with advanced HIV in Kenya and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. AIDS Care 2022; 34:1179-1186. [PMID: 34445917 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1966697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Advanced HIV causes substantial mortality in sub-Saharan Africa despite widespread antiretroviral therapy coverage. This paper explores pathways of care amongst hospitalised patients with advanced HIV in rural Kenya and urban Democratic Republic of the Congo, with a view to understanding their care-seeking trajectories and poor health outcomes. Thirty in-depth interviews were conducted with hospitalised patients with advanced HIV who had previously initiated first-line antiretroviral therapy, covering their experiences of living with HIV and care-seeking. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and translated before being coded inductively and analysed thematically. In both settings, participants' health journeys were defined by recurrent, severe symptoms and complex pathways of care before hospitalisation. Patients were often hospitalised after multiple failed attempts to obtain adequate care at health centres. Most participants managed their ill-health with limited support networks, lived in fragile economic situations and often experienced stress and other mental health concerns. Treatment-taking was sometimes undermined by strict messaging around adherence that was delivered in health facilities. These findings reveal a group of patients who had "slipped through the cracks" of health systems and social support structures, indicating both missed opportunities for timely management of advanced HIV and the need for interventions beyond hospital and clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rose Burns
- Epicentre, Médecins sans Frontières, Paris, France
| | - Emilie Venables
- Southern Africa Medical Unit: Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa.,University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Lilian Kocholla
- Homabay County Teaching and Referral Hospital, Homa Bay, Kenya
| | | | - Gisele Mucinya
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Alison Wringe
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shulock K, Beima-Sofie K, Apriyanto H, Njuguna I, Mburu C, Mugo C, Itindi J, Onyango A, Wamalwa D, John-Stewart G, O'Malley G. "It's about making adolescents in charge of their health": policy-makers' perspectives on optimizing the health care transition among adolescents living with HIV in Kenya. AIDS Care 2022; 34:1127-1134. [PMID: 34482776 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1971606] [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] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACTThe health care transition (HCT) from pediatric to adult care is a potential contributor to poor clinical outcomes among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV). In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), there is limited information on effective tools and processes to prepare and support ALHIV through this transition. This study elicited perspectives of policy-makers regarding barriers and facilitators to successful HCT among ALHIV in Kenya. Twenty in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with policy-makers using a semi-structured guide. Using the socio-ecological model (SEM) as an organizing framework, directed content and thematic network analyses methods were used to characterize themes related to key influences on HCT processes and to describe actionable recommendations for improved tools and resources. Policy-makers identified multilevel support, including the development of a triadic relationship between the caregiver, healthcare worker (HCW) and adolescent, as an essential strategy for improved HCT success. Across the SEM, policy-makers described the importance of actively engaging adolescents in their care to promote increased ownership and autonomy over health decisions. At the structural level, the need for more comprehensive HCT guidelines and improved HCW training was highlighted. Expanded HCT tools and guidelines, that emphasize supportive relationships and intensified adolescent engagement, may improve HCT processes and outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Shulock
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Haris Apriyanto
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Irene Njuguna
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Kenyatta National Hospital, Research and Programs, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Caren Mburu
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cyrus Mugo
- Kenyatta National Hospital, Research and Programs, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Alvin Onyango
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Dalton Wamalwa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- 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
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Toromo JJ, Apondi E, Nyandiko WM, Omollo M, Bakari S, Aluoch J, Kantor R, Fortenberry JD, Wools-Kaloustian K, Elul B, Vreeman RC, Enane LA. "I have never talked to anyone to free my mind" - challenges surrounding status disclosure to adolescents contribute to their disengagement from HIV care: a qualitative study in western Kenya. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1122. [PMID: 35658924 PMCID: PMC9167528 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13519-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV, ages 10–19) experience complex barriers to care engagement. Challenges surrounding HIV status disclosure or non-disclosure to adolescents may contribute to adolescent disengagement from HIV care or non-adherence to ART. We performed a qualitative study to investigate the contribution of disclosure challenges to adolescent disengagement from HIV care. Methods This was a qualitative study performed with disengaged ALHIV and their caregivers, and with healthcare workers (HCW) in the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) program in western Kenya. Inclusion criteria for ALHIV were ≥1 visit within the 18 months prior to data collection at one of two clinical sites and nonattendance ≥60 days following their last scheduled appointment. HCW were recruited from 10 clinics. Analysis was conducted by multiple independent coders, and narratives of disclosure and care disengagement were closely interrogated. Overarching themes were elucidated and summarized. Results Interviews were conducted with 42 disengaged ALHIV, 32 caregivers, and 28 HCW. ALHIV were average age 17.0 (range 12.9–20.9), and 95% indicated awareness of their HIV diagnosis. Issues surrounding disclosure to ALHIV presented important barriers to HIV care engagement. Themes centered on delays in HIV status disclosure; hesitancy and reluctance among caregivers to disclose; struggles for adolescents to cope with feelings of having been deceived prior to full disclosure; pervasive HIV stigma internalized in school and community settings prior to disclosure; and inadequate and unstructured support after disclosure, including for adolescent mental health burdens and for adolescent-caregiver relationships and communication. Both HCW and caregivers described feeling inadequately prepared to optimally handle disclosure and to manage challenges that may arise after disclosure. Conclusions Complex challenges surrounding HIV status disclosure to adolescents contribute to care disengagement. There is need to enhance training and resources for HCW, and to empower caregivers to support children and adolescents before, during, and after HIV status disclosure. This should include counseling caregivers on how to provide children with developmentally-appropriate and accurate information about their health from an early age, and to support adolescent-caregiver communication and relationships. Optimally integrating peer support can further promote ALHIV wellbeing and retention in care. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13519-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith J Toromo
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Winstone M Nyandiko
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Child Health and Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Mark Omollo
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Salim Bakari
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Josephine Aluoch
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Rami Kantor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Brown University Apert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - J Dennis Fortenberry
- Section of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Batya Elul
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Child Health and Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Health System Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Arnhold Institute for Global Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Leslie A Enane
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA. .,Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
HIV Care Disengagement and Antiretroviral Treatment Discontinuation in Mexico: A Qualitative Study Based on the Ecological Model Among Men Who Have Sex With Men. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2022; 33:468-477. [PMID: 35608885 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT In 2018, 24% of Mexican men living with HIV were disengaged from HIV care, which impedes their use of antiretroviral treatment (ART). To identify HIV care disengagement and/or ART discontinuation factors using an ecological framework, we conducted 22 semi-structured interviews with men who have sex with men from the HIV state clinic of Tabasco, Mexico. HIV care disengagement was attributed to interpersonal, organizational, and community factors, whereas ART discontinuation was attributed to intrapersonal and interpersonal factors. Intrapersonal factors were burden of ART, substance use, mental health problems, and feeling well or ill. Interpersonal factors included family stigma or support, and partner discouragement. Factors at the organizational level were HIV care-related: inconvenient follow-ups, negative provider interactions, and reentry obstacles; and work-related: absences, work stigma, and travel. Community factors were social stigma and economic means. Interventions should target multiple levels of interdependent factors, distinguishing between HIV care disengagement and ART discontinuation factors.
Collapse
|
18
|
Enane LA, Apondi E, Liepmann C, Toromo JJ, Omollo M, Bakari S, Scanlon M, Wools-Kaloustian K, Vreeman RC. 'We are not going anywhere': a qualitative study of Kenyan healthcare worker perspectives on adolescent HIV care engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055948. [PMID: 35354627 PMCID: PMC8968109 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) may be vulnerable to widescale impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and to health system responses which impact HIV care. We assessed healthcare worker (HCW) perspectives on impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent HIV care delivery and engagement in western Kenya. METHODS We performed in-depth qualitative interviews with HCW at 10 clinical sites in the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare in Kenya, from January to March, 2021. Semistructured interviews ascertained pandemic-related impacts on adolescent HIV care delivery and retention. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 22 HCWs from 10 clinics. HCWs observed adolescent financial hardships, unmet basic needs and school dropouts during the pandemic, with some adolescents relocating to rural homes, to partners or to the street. Marked increases in adolescent pregnancies and pregnancy complications were described, as well as barriers to family planning and antenatal care. Transportation challenges and restrictions limited access to care and prompted provision of multi-month refills, refills at local dispensaries or transfer to local facilities. Adolescent-friendly services were compromised, resulting in care challenges and disengagement from care. Clinic capacities to respond to adolescent needs were limited by funding cuts to multidisciplinary staff and resources. HCW and youth peer mentors (YPMs) demonstrated resilience, by adapting services, taking on expanded roles and leveraging available resources to support adolescent retention and access to care. CONCLUSIONS ALHIV are uniquely vulnerable, and adolescent-friendly services are essential to their treatment. The combined effects of the pandemic, health system changes and funding cuts compromised adolescent-friendly care and limited capacity to respond to adolescent needs. There is a need to reinforce adolescent-friendly services within programmes and funding structures. Support for expanded YPM roles may facilitate dedicated, scalable and effective adolescent-friendly services, which are resilient and sustainable in times of crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Enane
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Claire Liepmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Judith J Toromo
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Mark Omollo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Salim Bakari
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Michael Scanlon
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Global Health and Health Systems Design, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, New York City, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Myers C, Apondi E, Toromo JJ, Omollo M, Bakari S, Aluoch J, Sang F, Njoroge T, Morris Z, Kantor R, Braitstein P, Nyandiko WM, Wools-Kaloustian K, Elul B, Vreeman RC, Enane LA. "Who am I going to stay with? Who will accept me?": family-level domains influencing HIV care engagement among disengaged adolescents in Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25890. [PMID: 35192747 PMCID: PMC8863355 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV, ages 10-19) have developmentally specific needs in care, and have lower retention compared to other age groups. Family-level contexts may be critical to adolescent HIV outcomes, but have often been overlooked. We investigated family-level factors underlying disengagement and supporting re-engagement among adolescents disengaged from HIV care. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were performed with 42 disengaged ALHIV, 32 of their caregivers and 28 healthcare workers (HCW) in the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) program in western Kenya, from 2018 to 2020. Disengaged ALHIV had ≥1 visit within the 18 months prior to data collection at one of two sites and nonattendance ≥60 days following their last scheduled appointment. HCW were recruited from 10 clinics. Transcripts were analysed through thematic analysis. A conceptual model for family-level domains influencing adolescent HIV care engagement was developed from these themes. RESULTS Family-level factors emerged as central to disengagement. ALHIV-particularly those orphaned by the loss of one or both parents-experienced challenges when new caregivers or unstable living situations limited support for HIV care. These challenges were compounded by anticipated stigma; resultant non-disclosure of HIV status to household members; enacted stigma in the household, with overwhelming effects on adolescents; or experiences of multiple forms of trauma, which undermined HIV care engagement. Some caregivers lacked finances or social support to facilitate care. Others did not feel equipped to support adolescent engagement or adherence. Regarding facilitators to re-engagement, participants described roles for household disclosure; and solidarity from caregivers, especially those also living with HIV. Family-level domains influencing HIV care engagement were conceptualized as follows: (1) adolescent living situation and contexts; (2) household material resources or poverty; (3) caregiver capacities and skills to support adolescent HIV care; and (4) HIV stigma or solidarity at the household level. CONCLUSIONS Family-level factors are integral to retention in care for ALHIV. The conceptual model developed in this study for family-level influences on care engagement may inform holistic approaches to promote healthy outcomes for ALHIV. Developmentally appropriate interventions targeting household relationships, disclosure, HIV stigma reduction, HIV care skills and resources, and economic empowerment may promote adolescent engagement in HIV care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Myers
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Judith J Toromo
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Mark Omollo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Salim Bakari
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Josephine Aluoch
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Festus Sang
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Tabitha Njoroge
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Zariel Morris
- Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Rami Kantor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Brown University Apert Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Epidemiology, Indiana University Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Winstone M Nyandiko
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Batya Elul
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Health System Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.,Arnhold Institute for Global Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Leslie A Enane
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Audi C, Jahanpour O, Antelman G, Guay L, Rutaihwa M, van de Ven R, Woelk G, Baird SJ. Facilitators and barriers to antiretroviral therapy adherence among HIV-positive adolescents living in Tanzania. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2274. [PMID: 34903209 PMCID: PMC8670050 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12323-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with HIV face substandard outcomes along the continuum of care, including higher rates of poor adherence and virologic failure. Support groups have been identified as a method to improve adherence, but there is insufficient evidence regarding their effectiveness. This study seeks to examine the protective influences for and barriers to antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence in HIV-positive adolescents living in Tanzania. METHODS This is a qualitative study conducted in Tanzania from January to March 2018. The sample of adolescents aged 10-19 (n = 33) was purposefully selected based on age, gender, and support group attendance to capture a broad range of experiences. Participants completed an in-depth interview, covering topics such as retention in HIV services, support group experiences, and joys and challenges of adolescent life. Interviews were coded and themes related to ART adherence were identified and summarized. RESULTS Support groups helped promote adherence by improving adolescents' knowledge and confidence. Participants associated joining support groups with an improvement in health. Almost every participant described the significant positive influence a treatment supporter had on adherence. Adolescents' daily schedules and emotional state served as a barrier to adherence. Furthermore, adherence was negatively impacted by participants' fear of accidental disclosure. CONCLUSION Logistical and psychosocial factors can hinder adherence. Interventions that provide both education and psychosocial support, such as peer support groups, have the potential to improve health outcomes for this population, but may not address more persistent barriers to adherence rooted in lack of treatment support from family members or friends who have not been disclosed to, or lack of transportation funds/food security.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cosette Audi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20036, USA.
| | - Ola Jahanpour
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Gretchen Antelman
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20036, USA
| | - Laura Guay
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20036, USA
| | - Mastidia Rutaihwa
- National AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Godfrey Woelk
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20036, USA
| | - Sarah J Baird
- Department of Global Health, George Washington University, Washington, D.C., USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Supporting adolescents living with HIV within boarding schools in Kenya. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260278. [PMID: 34855779 PMCID: PMC8638902 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescents and youth living with HIV (AYLHIV) are a uniquely vulnerable population facing challenges around adherence, disclosure of HIV status and stigma. Providing school-based support for AYLHIV offers an opportunity to optimize their health and wellbeing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of school-based supportive interventions for AYLHIV in Kenya. From 2016–2019, with funding from ViiV Healthcare, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation implemented the innovative Red Carpet Program (RCP) for AYLHIV in participating public healthcare facilities and boarding schools in Homa Bay and Turkana Counties in Kenya. In this analysis, we report the implementation of the school-based interventions for AYLHIV in schools, which included: a) capacity building for overall in-school HIV, stigma and sexual and reproductive health education; b) HIV care and treatment support; c) bi-directional linkages with healthcare facilities; and d) psychosocial support (PSS). Overall, 561 school staff and 476 school adolescent health advocates received training to facilitate supportive environments for AYLHIV and school-wide education on HIV, stigma, and sexual and reproductive health. All 87 boarding schools inter-linked to 66 regional healthcare facilities to support care and treatment of AYLHIV. Across all RCP schools, 546 AYLHIV had their HIV status disclosed to school staff and received supportive care within schools, including treatment literacy and adherence counselling, confidential storage and access to HIV medications. School-based interventions to optimize care and treatment support for AYLHIV are feasible and contribute to advancing sexual and reproductive health within schools.
Collapse
|
22
|
Testing for saturation in qualitative evidence syntheses: An update of HIV adherence in Africa. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258352. [PMID: 34665831 PMCID: PMC8525762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A systematic review of randomised trials may be conclusive signalling no further research is needed; or identify gaps requiring further research that may then be included in review updates. In qualitative evidence synthesis (QES), the rationale, triggers, and methods for updating are less clear cut. We updated a QES on adherence to anti-retroviral treatment to examine if thematic saturation renders additional research redundant. Methods We adopted the original review search strategy and eligibility criteria to identify studies in the subsequent three years. We assessed studies for conceptual detail, categorised as ‘rich’ or ‘sparse’, coding the rich studies. We sought new codes, and appraised whether findings confirmed, extended, enriched, or refuted existing themes. Finally, we examined if the analysis impacted on the original conceptual model. Results After screening 3895 articles, 301 studies met the inclusion criteria. Rich findings from Africa were available in 82 studies; 146 studies were sparse, contained no additional information on specific populations, and did not contribute to the analysis. New studies enriched our understanding on the relationship between external and internal factors influencing adherence, confirming, extending and enriching the existing themes. Despite careful evaluation of the new literature, we did not identify any new themes, and found no studies that refuted our theory. Conclusions Updating an existing QES using the original question confirmed and sometimes enriched evidence within themes but made little or no substantive difference to the theory and overall findings of the original review. We propose this illustrates thematic saturation. We propose a thoughtful approach before embarking on a QES update, and our work underlines the importance of QES priority areas where further primary research may help, and areas where further studies may be redundant.
Collapse
|
23
|
Enane LA, Apondi E, Aluoch J, Bakoyannis G, Lewis Kulzer J, Kwena Z, Kantor R, Chory A, Gardner A, Scanlon M, Goodrich S, Wools-Kaloustian K, Elul B, Vreeman RC. Social, economic, and health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescents retained in or recently disengaged from HIV care in Kenya. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257210. [PMID: 34506555 PMCID: PMC8432853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV, ages 10-19) experience complex challenges to adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and remain in care, and may be vulnerable to wide-scale disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. We assessed for a range of effects of the pandemic on ALHIV in western Kenya, and whether effects were greater for ALHIV with recent histories of being lost to program (LTP). METHODS ALHIV were recruited from an ongoing prospective study at 3 sites in western Kenya. The parent study enrolled participants from February 2019-September 2020, into groups of ALHIV either 1) retained in care or 2) LTP and traced in the community. Phone interviews from July 2020-January 2021 assessed effects of the pandemic on financial and food security, healthcare access and behaviors, and mental health. Responses were compared among the parent study groups. RESULTS Phone surveys were completed with 334 ALHIV or their caregivers, including 275/308 (89.3%) in the retained group and 59/70 (84.3%) among those LTP at initial enrollment. During the pandemic, a greater proportion of LTP adolescents were no longer engaged in school (45.8% vs. 36.4%, p = 0.017). Over a third (120, 35.9%) of adolescents reported lost income for someone they relied on. In total, 135 (40.4%) did not have enough food either some (121, 36.2%) or most (14, 4.2%) of the time. More LTP adolescents (4/59, 6.8% vs. 2/275, 0.7%, p = 0.010) reported increased difficulties refilling ART. Adolescent PHQ-2 and GAD-2 scores were ≥3 for 5.6% and 5.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating socioeconomic effects for Kenyan ALHIV and their households. ALHIV with recent care disengagement may be especially vulnerable. Meanwhile, sustained ART access and adherence potentially signal resilience and strengths of ALHIV and their care programs. Findings from this survey indicate the critical need for support to ALHIV during this crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A. Enane
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Josephine Aluoch
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Giorgos Bakoyannis
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Jayne Lewis Kulzer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Zachary Kwena
- Research, Care and Treatment Programme, Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rami Kantor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Brown University Apert Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Ashley Chory
- Department of Health System Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Adrian Gardner
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Michael Scanlon
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Suzanne Goodrich
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Batya Elul
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Rachel C. Vreeman
- Department of Health System Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, New York, New York, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Simms V, Bernays S, Chibanda D, Chinoda S, Mutsinze A, Beji‐Chauke R, Mugurungi O, Apollo T, Sithole D, Verhey R, Weiss HA, Willis N. Risk factors for HIV virological non-suppression among adolescents with common mental disorder symptoms in Zimbabwe: a cross-sectional study. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25773. [PMID: 34402199 PMCID: PMC8368838 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents are at increased risk of HIV virological non-suppression compared to adults and younger children. Common mental disorders such as anxiety and depression are a barrier to adherence and virological suppression. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with virological non-suppression among adolescents living with HIV (ALWH) in Zimbabwe who had symptoms of common mental disorders. METHODS We utilized baseline data from a cluster-randomized controlled trial of a problem-solving therapy intervention to improve mental health and HIV viral suppression of ALWH. Sixty clinics within 10 districts were randomized 1:1 to either the intervention or control arm, with the aim to recruit 14 adolescents aged 10 to 19 per clinic. Adolescents were eligible if they scored ≥7 on the Shona Symptom Questionnaire measuring symptoms of common mental disorders. Multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for factors associated with non-suppression, defined as viral load ≥1000 copies/mL. RESULTS Between 2 January and 21 March 2019 the trial enrolled 842 participants aged 10 to 19 years (55.5% female, 58.8% aged <16). Most participants (N = 613) were taking an NNRTI-based ART regimen (13 PI-based, 216 unknown) and median duration on ART was six years (IQR three to nine years, 240 unknown). Of the 833 with viral load data 292 (35.1%) were non-suppressed. Virological non-suppression was independently associated with male sex (adjusted OR (aOR) = 1.43, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.97), and with not knowing one's own HIV status (aOR = 1.77, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.88), or knowing one's status but not disclosing it to anyone (aOR = 1.99, 95% CI 1.36 to 2.93), compared to adolescents who knew their status and had disclosed it to someone. CONCLUSIONS ALWH with symptoms of common mental disorders have high prevalence of virological non-suppression in Zimbabwe, especially if they do not know their status or have not disclosed it. In general adolescents should be informed of their HIV status, with encouragement on the beneficial health and social effects of viral suppression, to incentivise adherence. Efforts to strengthen the operationalization of disclosure guidelines for adolescents should now be prioritized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Simms
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology GroupLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Sarah Bernays
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Dixon Chibanda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- Friendship BenchHarareZimbabwe
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of Zimbabwe College of Health SciencesHarareZimbabwe
| | | | | | | | - Owen Mugurungi
- AIDS & TB UnitMinistry of Health and Child CareHarareZimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Apollo
- AIDS & TB UnitMinistry of Health and Child CareHarareZimbabwe
| | - Dorcas Sithole
- Mental Health ServicesMinistry of Health and Child CareHarareZimbabwe
| | | | - Helen A Weiss
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology GroupLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Laycock KM, Eby J, Arscott-Mills T, Argabright S, Caiphus C, Kgwaadira B, Lowenthal ED, Steenhoff AP, Enane LA. Towards quality adolescent-friendly services in TB care. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2021; 25:579-583. [PMID: 34183104 PMCID: PMC8259119 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.21.0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K M Laycock
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, The Children´s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - J Eby
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children´s Hospital, and Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women´s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - T Arscott-Mills
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children´s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - S Argabright
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - C Caiphus
- Botswana National TB Programme, Ministry of Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - B Kgwaadira
- Botswana National TB Programme, Ministry of Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - E D Lowenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children´s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - A P Steenhoff
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, The Children´s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - L A Enane
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Enane LA, Apondi E, Omollo M, Toromo JJ, Bakari S, Aluoch J, Morris C, Kantor R, Braitstein P, Fortenberry JD, Nyandiko WM, Wools‐Kaloustian K, Elul B, Vreeman RC. "I just keep quiet about it and act as if everything is alright" - The cascade from trauma to disengagement among adolescents living with HIV in western Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25695. [PMID: 33838007 PMCID: PMC8035676 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There are approximately 1.7 million adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV, ages 10 to 19) globally, including 110,000 in Kenya. While ALHIV experience poor retention in care, limited data exist on factors underlying disengagement. We investigated the burden of trauma among disengaged ALHIV in western Kenya, and its potential role in HIV care disengagement. METHODS We performed in-depth qualitative interviews with ALHIV who had disengaged from care at two sites, their caregivers and healthcare workers (HCW) at 10 sites, from 2018 to 2020. Disengagement was defined as not attending clinic ≥60 days past a missed scheduled visit. ALHIV and their caregivers were traced through phone calls and home visits. Interviews ascertained barriers and facilitators to adolescent retention in HIV care. Dedicated questions elicited narratives surrounding traumatic experiences, and the ways in which these did or did not impact retention in care. Through thematic analysis, a conceptual model emerged for a cascade from adolescent experience of trauma to disengagement from HIV care. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 42 disengaged ALHIV, 34 caregivers and 28 HCW. ALHIV experienced a high burden of trauma from a range of stressors, including experiences at HIV disclosure or diagnosis, the loss of parents, enacted stigma and physical or sexual violence. A confluence of factors - trauma, stigma and isolation, and lack of social support - led to hopelessness and depression. These factors compounded each other, and resulted in complex mental health burdens, poor antiretroviral adherence and care disengagement. HCW approaches aligned with the factors in this model, suggesting that these areas represent targets for intervention and provision of trauma-informed care. CONCLUSIONS Trauma is a major factor underlying disengagement from HIV care among Kenyan adolescents. We describe a cascade of factors representing areas for intervention to support mental health and retention in HIV care. These include not only the provision of mental healthcare, but also preventing or addressing violence, trauma and stigma, and reinforcing social and familial support surrounding vulnerable adolescents. In this conceptualization, supporting retention in HIV care requires a trauma-informed approach, both in the individualized care of ALHIV and in the development of strategies and policies to support adolescent health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Enane
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global HealthDepartment of PediatricsIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Moi Teaching and Referral HospitalEldoretKenya
| | - Mark Omollo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Judith J Toromo
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global HealthDepartment of PediatricsIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Salim Bakari
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Josephine Aluoch
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Clemette Morris
- Indiana University‐Purdue University‐IndianapolisIndiana UniversityIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Rami Kantor
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineBrown University Apert Medical SchoolProvidenceRIUSA
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Department of EpidemiologyIndiana University Fairbanks School of Public HealthIndianapolisINUSA
- Dalla Lana School of Public HealthDivision of EpidemiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoONCanada
- Department of MedicineCollege of Health SciencesSchool of MedicineMoi UniversityEldoretKenya
| | - J Dennis Fortenberry
- Division of Adolescent MedicineDepartment of PediatricsIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Winstone M Nyandiko
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Department of Child Health and PediatricsCollege of Health SciencesSchool of MedicineMoi UniversityEldoretKenya
| | - Kara Wools‐Kaloustian
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Batya Elul
- Department of EpidemiologyMailman School of Public HealthColumbia UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
- Department of Health System Design and Global HealthIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNYUSA
- Arnhold Institute for Global HealthNew YorkNYUSA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Aurpibul L, Sophonphan J, Malee K, Kerr SJ, Sun LP, Ounchanum P, Kosalaraksa P, Ngampiyaskul C, Kanjanavanit S, Chettra K, Suwanlerk T, Mellins CA, Paul R, Robbins RN, Ananworanich J, Puthanakit T. HIV-related enacted stigma and increase frequency of depressive symptoms among Thai and Cambodian adolescents and young adults with perinatal HIV. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 32:246-256. [PMID: 33334266 PMCID: PMC10849772 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420960602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
HIV-related enacted stigma and social problems may increase risk for depression and/or behavioral problems among adolescents and young adults with perinatal HIV(AYA-PHIV), yet few studies have explored stigma in AYA-PHIV residing in low-to-middle income regions, including Southeast Asia. We assessed HIV-related enacted stigma and social problems in AYA-PHIV who participated in the RESILIENCE study (clinicaltrials.gov identification: U19AI53741) in Thailand and Cambodia using specific questions during structured in-person interviews. Depression was measured by the Child Depression Inventory for children <15 years, or the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scales for youth ≥15 years); behavioral problems were measured by the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL-caregiver report). Among 195 AYA-PHIV (median age 16.9 years), 25.6% reported a lifetime experience of enacted stigma, while 10.8% experienced social problems due to HIV infection. The frequency of depressive symptoms was nearly two-fold higher among AYA-PHIV with compared to those without HIV-related enacted stigma (34.7% vs. 16.0%, p = 0.005). Caregiver-reported behavioral problems were detected in 14.6% of all AYA-PHIV, with no differences between those with and without HIV-related enacted stigma. Low household income and caregiver mental health problems were independent risk factors for depressive symptoms; HIV-related enacted stigma was also associated with increased risk, warranting targeted services to support AYA-PHIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Aurpibul
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Jiratchaya Sophonphan
- The HIV Netherlands Australia Thailand Research Collaboration (HIV-NAT), The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Center, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kathleen Malee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stephen J Kerr
- The HIV Netherlands Australia Thailand Research Collaboration (HIV-NAT), The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Center, Bangkok, Thailand
- Biostatistics Excellence Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ly Penh Sun
- National Center for HIV/AIDS Dermatology and STDs, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | | | - Pope Kosalaraksa
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | | | | | - Kea Chettra
- National Center for HIV/AIDS Dermatology and STDs, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Tulathip Suwanlerk
- The HIV Netherlands Australia Thailand Research Collaboration (HIV-NAT), The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Center, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Claude A Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert Paul
- Missouri Institute of Mental Health, University of Missouri-St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Reuben N Robbins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jintanat Ananworanich
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thanyawee Puthanakit
- The HIV Netherlands Australia Thailand Research Collaboration (HIV-NAT), The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Center, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Enane LA, Christenson JC. Global emerging resistance in pediatric infections with TB, HIV, and gram-negative pathogens. Paediatr Int Child Health 2021; 41:65-75. [PMID: 33305992 PMCID: PMC8243638 DOI: 10.1080/20469047.2020.1853350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Infants, children and adolescents are at risk of life-threatening, antimicrobial-resistant infections. Global burdens of drug-resistant TB, HIV and gram-negative pathogens have a particular impact on paediatric age groups, necessitating a paediatric-focused agenda to address emerging resistance. Dedicated approaches are needed to find, successfully treat and prevent resistant infections in paediatric populations worldwide. Challenges include the diagnosis and identification of resistant infections, limited access to novel antimicrobials or to paediatric-friendly formulations, limited access to research and clinical trials and implementation challenges related to prevention and successful completion of treatment. In this review, the particular complexities of emerging resistance in TB, HIV and gram-negative pathogens in children, with attention to both clinical and public health challenges, are highlighted. Key principles of a paediatric-focused agenda to address antimicrobial resistance are outlined. They include quality of care, increasing equitable access to key diagnostics, expanding antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention across global settings, and health system strengthening. Increased access to research studies, including clinical trials, is needed. Further study and implementation of care models and strategies for child- or adolescent-centred management of infections such as HIV and TB can critically improve outcome and avoid development of resistance. As the current global pandemic of a novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, threatens to disrupt health systems and services for vulnerable populations, this is a critical time to mitigate against a potential surge in the incidence of resistant infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Enane
- Department of Pediatrics Indiana University School of Medicine, Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - John C Christenson
- Department of Pediatrics Indiana University School of Medicine, Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|