1
|
Wiginton JM, Maksut JL, Scheim AI, Zlotorzynska M, Sanchez TH, Baral SD. Intersecting Sexual Behavior and Gender Identity Stigmas Among Transgender Women in the United States: Burden and Associations with Sexual Health. AIDS Behav 2023:10.1007/s10461-023-04028-w. [PMID: 36952112 PMCID: PMC10034890 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04028-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, a context of multiple marginalization shapes sexual health disparities experienced by transgender women. Using data from 396 transgender women with negative or unknown HIV status, we performed exploratory factor analysis on responses to gender identity and sexual behavior stigma items and regressed sexual health outcomes on extracted factors via modified Poisson regression with robust variance estimation. Overall, 97.2% of participants endorsed ≥ 1 gender identity stigma; 67.2% endorsed ≥ 1 sexual behavior stigma; and 66.9% endorsed ≥ 1 of each. Extracted factors included gender-identity social stigma, reflecting experiences related to family, fearfulness in public, and verbal harassment (α = 0.68); gender-identity institutional stigma/violence, reflecting experiences related to healthcare, police interactions, and interpersonal violence (α = 0.73); and global sexual behavior stigma, reflecting experiences related to family, friends, and healthcare, as well as police interactions, fearfulness in public, verbal harassment, and interpersonal violence (α = 0.83). Gender-identity social stigma was significantly, positively associated with testing for HIV and testing for sexually transmitted infections. Gender-identity institutional stigma/violence and global sexual behavior stigma were both significantly, positively associated with condomless anal sex, sex work, testing for HIV, testing for sexually transmitted infections, and use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Stigma-mitigation remains critical to improve quality of life and sexual health for transgender women in the United States.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Mark Wiginton
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
- San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Jessica L Maksut
- Center for Public Health & Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Ayden I Scheim
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Nesbitt Hall, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Maria Zlotorzynska
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1581 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1581 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Center for Public Health & Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Saalim K, Amu-Adu P, Amoh-Otu RP, Akrong R, Abu-Ba’are GR, Stockton MA, Vormawor R, Torpey K, Nyblade L, Nelson LE. Multi-level manifestations of sexual stigma among men with same-gender sexual experience in Ghana. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:166. [PMID: 36694150 PMCID: PMC9872747 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15087-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual stigma and discrimination toward men who have same-gender sexual experiences are present across the globe. In Ghana, same-gender sexual desires and relationships are stigmatized, and the stigma is sanctioned through both social and legal processes. Such stigma negatively influences health and other material and social aspects of daily life for men who have sex with men (MSM). However, there is evidence that stigma at the interpersonal level can intersect with stigma that may be operating simultaneously at other levels. Few studies provide a comprehensive qualitative assessment of the multi-level sexual stigma derived from the direct narratives of men with same-gender sexual experience. To help fill this gap on sexual stigma, we qualitatively investigated [1] what was the range of sexual stigma manifestations, and [2] how sexual stigma manifestations were distributed across socioecological levels in a sample of Ghanaian MSM. From March to September 2020, we conducted eight focus group discussions (FGDs) with MSM about their experiences with stigma from Accra and Kumasi, Ghana. Data from the FGDs were subjected to qualitative content analysis. We identified a range of eight manifestations of sexual stigma: (1) gossiping and outing; (2) verbal abuse and intrusive questioning; (3) non-verbal judgmental gestures; (4) societal, cultural, and religious blaming and shaming; (5) physical abuse; (6) poor-quality services; (7) living in constant fear and stigma avoidance; and (8) internal ambivalence and guilt about sexual behavior. Sexual stigma manifestations were unevenly distributed across socioecological levels. Our findings are consistent with those of existing literature documenting that, across Africa, and particularly in Ghana, national laws and religious institutions continue to drive stigma against MSM. Fundamental anti-homosexual sentiments along with beliefs associating homosexuality with foreign cultures and immorality drive the stigmatization of MSM. Stigma experienced at all socioecological levels has been shown to impact both the mental and sexual health of MSM. Deeper analysis is needed to understand more of the lived stigma experiences of MSM to develop appropriate stigma-reduction interventions. Additionally, more community-level stigma research and interventions are needed that focus on the role of family and peers in stigma toward MSM in Ghana.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Melissa A. Stockton
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY USA
| | | | | | | | - LaRon E. Nelson
- Yale School of Nursing, New Haven, CT USA
- Yale Institute for Global Health, New Haven, CT USA
- Yale Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, New Haven, CT USA
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dibble KE, Baral SD, Beymer MR, Stahlman S, Lyons CE, Olawore O, Ndour C, Turpin Nunez G, Toure-Kane C, Leye Diouf N, Diouf D, Drame FM, Mboup S, Murray SM. Stigma and healthcare access among men who have sex with men and transgender women who have sex with men in Senegal. SAGE Open Med 2022; 10:20503121211069276. [PMID: 35517371 PMCID: PMC9066634 DOI: 10.1177/20503121211069276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Cisgender gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men and transgender women experience HIV incidence disparities in Senegal. These analyses determined how depression and different stigma mechanisms related to sexual behavior are associated with healthcare access, sexually transmitted infection testing, and HIV testing among cisgender gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men and transgender women across three cities in western Senegal. Methods: Logistic regression assessed the relationship of three stigma scales (stigma from family and friends, anticipated healthcare stigma, and general social stigma) and depression with these outcomes. Results: Depression and stigma were not associated with healthcare access, sexually transmitted infection testing, or HIV testing. However, individuals who had disclosed their sexual identity to a medical provider were more likely to test for HIV. Conclusions: Sexual behavior stigma experienced by cisgender gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men and trans women in Senegal may not limit access to routine healthcare, but may limit disclosure of sexual orientation and practices, limiting access to appropriate HIV prevention services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kate E Dibble
- Department of Epidemiology, Key Populations Program, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Key Populations Program, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew R Beymer
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shauna Stahlman
- Department of Epidemiology, Key Populations Program, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carrie E Lyons
- Department of Epidemiology, Key Populations Program, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Oluwasolape Olawore
- Department of Epidemiology, Key Populations Program, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Cheikh Ndour
- Division de La Lutte Contre Le Sida et Les IST, Ministry of Health, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Gnilane Turpin Nunez
- Department of Epidemiology, Key Populations Program, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Coumba Toure-Kane
- Molecular Biology Unit, National Reference Center for HIV and STDs, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Nafissatou Leye Diouf
- Institut de Recherche en Santé de Surveillance Epidemiologique et de Formations, Dakar, Senegal
| | | | | | - Souleymane Mboup
- Institut de Recherche en Santé de Surveillance Epidemiologique et de Formations, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Sarah M Murray
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ndione AG, Procureur F, Senne JN, Cornaglia F, Gueye K, Ndour CT, Lépine A. Sexuality-Based Stigma and Access to Care: Intersecting Perspectives Between Health Care Providers and Men Who Have Sex With Men in HIV Care Centres in Senegal. Health Policy Plan 2022; 37:587-596. [PMID: 35147679 PMCID: PMC9113117 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czac010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Senegal face a challenging socio-legal context, marked by homophobia and the illegality of homosexuality. In addition, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence among MSM is 27.6%, 46 times greater than the one in the general population (0.5%). Nevertheless, access to healthcare by MSM may be hampered by stigmatizing attitudes from health facility staff (medical and non-medical). This article describes the health facility staff/MSM relationship and analyses its effects on access to healthcare by MSM. The data used were collected through a field survey based on observations and qualitative interviews conducted in 2019 and 2020 with 16 MSM, 1 non-governmental organization (NGO) staff and 9 healthcare providers in Dakar (the capital city) and Mbour (secondary city on the West Coast) hospitals. The data were subject to a thematic analysis assisted by the ATLAS software. The relationship between MSM and healthcare providers is ambiguous. On the one hand, healthcare providers are torn between their professional duty to treat MSM and the cost of being stigmatized by other colleagues. Therefore, they often limit their empathy with MSM within the hospital context. On the other hand, MSM, trusting in the confidentiality of healthcare providers, feel safe in the care pathway. However, we identify the following stigmatizing factors limiting access to care include (1) fear of meeting a relative, (2) difficult relationships with non-medical support staff (mainly security guards), (3) HIV status disclosure and (4) potential conflicts with other MSM. This study is unique as it includes non-medical staff in its respondents. It shows that hospitals are divided into several areas, based on the stigma perceived by MSM. It is important to map out MSM’s care trajectories and spaces and to identify all types of staff working within them, including non-medical staff, and enrol them in stigma reduction interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Khady Gueye
- Ministry of Health and Social Action of Senegal
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sekoni AO, Jolly K, Gale NK. Hidden healthcare populations: using intersectionality to theorise the experiences of LGBT+ people in Nigeria, Africa. Glob Public Health 2020; 17:134-149. [PMID: 33287671 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1849351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Minority population groups are often excluded or marginalised within health systems and in health research and policy. This article argues that theories of intersectionality can help us to understand these issues and develops the concept of 'hidden healthcare populations' - using the case of people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Plus (LGBT+) in Nigeria, in sub-Saharan Africa. The findings present original qualitative data from a seldom heard population group about instances of abuse, rejection and marginalisation by healthcare providers working in public and private healthcare facilities, and the attempts of LGBT+ people to resist and survive in that context. We extend theoretical understandings of intersectionality in global public health and explore how the concept relates to the social determinants of health. The article has significant implications for policy and healthcare education and responds to a call from the World Health Organisation to generate context-specific data to guide interventions targeted at minority population groups. Additionally, our discussion has wider significance because it highlights the Western-centric nature of much theory in health policy - and offers analysis and reinterpretation that incorporates queer, postcolonial, African perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Jolly
- Institute of Applied Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Nicola Kay Gale
- Health Services Management Centre, School of Social Policy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Augustinavicius JL, Baral SD, Murray SM, Jackman K, Xue QL, Sanchez TH, Nowak RG, Crowell TA, Zlotorzynska M, Olawore O, Lyons CE, Njindam IM, Tamoufe U, Diouf D, Drame F, Kouanda S, Kouame A, Charurat ME, Anato S, Mothopeng T, Mnisi Z, Kane JC. Characterizing Cross-Culturally Relevant Metrics of Stigma Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Across 8 Sub-Saharan African Countries and the United States. Am J Epidemiol 2020; 189:690-697. [PMID: 31942619 PMCID: PMC7608078 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwz270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Overcoming stigma affecting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) is a foundational element of an effective response to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic. Quantifying the impact of stigma mitigation interventions necessitates improved measurement of stigma for MSM around the world. In this study, we explored the underlying factor structure and psychometric properties of 13 sexual behavior stigma items among 10,396 MSM across 8 sub-Saharan African countries and the United States using cross-sectional data collected between 2012 and 2016. Exploratory factor analyses were used to examine the number and composition of underlying stigma factors. A 3-factor model was found to be an adequate fit in all countries (root mean square error of approximation = 0.02-0.05; comparative fit index/Tucker-Lewis index = 0.97-1.00/0.94-1.00; standardized root mean square residual = 0.04-0.08), consisting of "stigma from family and friends," "anticipated health-care stigma," and "general social stigma," with internal consistency estimates across countries of α = 0.36-0.80, α = 0.72-0.93, and α = 0.51-0.79, respectively. The 3-factor model of sexual behavior stigma cut across social contexts among MSM in the 9 countries. These findings indicate commonalities in sexual behavior stigma affecting MSM across sub-Saharan Africa and the United States, which can facilitate efforts to track progress on global stigma mitigation interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jura L Augustinavicius
- Correspondence to Dr. Jura L. Augustinavicius, Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, 7th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21205 (e-mail: )
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hessou SPH, Glele-Ahanhanzo Y, Adekpedjou R, Ahoussinou C, Djade CD, Biaou A, Johnson CR, Boko M, Alary M. HIV incidence and risk contributing factors among men who have sex with men in Benin: A prospective cohort study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233624. [PMID: 32516307 PMCID: PMC7282649 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with Men (MSM) are a key population in the transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. In Benin, there is a lack of strategic information to offer appropriate interventions for these populations who live hidden due to their stigmatization and discrimination. The objective is to identify contributing factors that affect HIV incidence in the MSM population. Study of a prospective cohort of 358 HIV-negative MSM, aged 18 years and over, reporting having had at least one oral or anal relationship with another man during the last 12 months, prior to recruitment. The monitoring lasted 30 months with a follow-up visit every six months. Univariate analyses and a Cox proportional hazards multivariate regression were used to examine the association between bio-behavioral, socio-demographic and knowledge-related characteristics with HIV incidence. The retention rate for the follow-up of the 358 participants was 94.5%. On the 813.5 person-years of follow-up, 48 seroconversions with an HIV incidence of 5.91 per 100 person-years were observed (95% CI: 4.46–7.85). Factors associated with the high risk of HIV were age (HR = 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2–0.8), living in couple (HR = 0.5 95% CI: 0.2–0.96) and the lack of condom systematic use with a male partner during high-risk sex (HR = 3.9; 95% CI: 1.4–11.1). HIV incidence is high within MSM population and particularly among young people. Targeted, suitable and cost-effective interventions for the delivery of the combination prevention package in an environment free of stigma and discrimination are necessary and vital for reaching the 90x90x90 target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Septime P. H. Hessou
- National Reference Centre for AIDS Research and Care (CNRRPEC-CNHU/Bénin), Cotonou, Bénin
- Population Health and Best Practices in Health Axis Quebec City University Hospital Research Center Laval University, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Québec, Canada
- Inter-faculty Centre for Training and Research in Environment for Development (CIFRED), Abomey-Calavi University (UAC), Calavi, Bénin
- * E-mail:
| | - Yolaine Glele-Ahanhanzo
- Regional Institute of Public Health (IRSP), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Ouidah, Bénin
| | - Rhéda Adekpedjou
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Clement Ahoussinou
- Institute for the Analysis of Communication and Social Groups, Missereté, Bénin
| | - Codjo D. Djade
- Population Health and Best Practices in Health Axis Quebec City University Hospital Research Center Laval University, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Christian R. Johnson
- Inter-faculty Centre for Training and Research in Environment for Development (CIFRED), Abomey-Calavi University (UAC), Calavi, Bénin
| | - Michel Boko
- Inter-faculty Centre for Training and Research in Environment for Development (CIFRED), Abomey-Calavi University (UAC), Calavi, Bénin
| | - Michel Alary
- Population Health and Best Practices in Health Axis Quebec City University Hospital Research Center Laval University, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Balogun A, Bissell P, Saddiq M. Negotiating access to the Nigerian healthcare system: the experiences of HIV-positive men who have sex with men. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2020; 22:233-246. [PMID: 30957653 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2019.1582802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men in sub-Saharan Africa continue to have a disproportionately higher burden of HIV than their counterparts in the general population. In this qualitative study, barriers to participants accessing healthcare services in Nigeria, a country where same-sex relationships are criminalised and considered societally abhorrent, were explored. Four focus group discussions and 21 semi-structured interviews were conducted with HIV-positive men who have sex with men recruited from 3 NGOs in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria in 2016. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using NVivo. The findings of this study revealed the numerous barriers these men encounter accessing general (government and private) healthcare facilities. Data were organised into two categories: barriers associated with the wider legal context in relation to HIV-positive men who have sex with men and those with service delivery. There were barriers reported in relation to accessing an emerging service, which had hitherto sought to address some barriers encountered in general healthcare facilities. Findings point to the importance of facilitating a more enabling social and political environment whereby men who have sex with men can freely access healthcare services, potentially through these facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abisola Balogun
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paul Bissell
- School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK
| | - Muhammad Saddiq
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kushwaha S, Lalani Y, Maina G, Ogunbajo A, Wilton L, Agyarko-Poku T, Adu-Sarkodie Y, Boakye F, Zhang N, Nelson LE. "But the moment they find out that you are MSM…": a qualitative investigation of HIV prevention experiences among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Ghana's health care system. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:770. [PMID: 28974257 PMCID: PMC5627492 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4799-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of HIV in Ghana is 1.3%, compared to 17% among men who have sex with men (MSM). There is limited empirical data on the current health care climate and its impact on HIV prevention services for Ghanaian MSM. The purposes of this study were to investigate (1) MSM’s experiences using HIV prevention resources, (2) what factors, including health care climate factors, influenced MSM’s use of prevention resources and (3) MSM self-identified strategies for improving HIV/sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention among MSM in Ghanaian communities. Methods We conducted 22 focus groups (n = 137) with peer social networks of MSM drawn from three geographic communities in Ghana (Accra, Kumasi, Manya Krobo). The data were examined using qualitative content analysis. Interviews with individual health care providers were also conducted to supplement the analysis of focus group findings to provide more nuanced illuminations of the experiences reported by MSM. Results There were four major findings related to MSM experiences using HIV prevention resources: (1) condom quality is low, condom access is poor, and condom use is disruptive, (2) inaccurate information undermines HIV testing (3), stigma undermines HIV testing, and (4) positive attitudes towards HIV prevention exist among MSM. The main healthcare climate factors that affected prevention were that MSM were not free to be themselves, MSM were not understood by healthcare providers, and that MSM did not feel that healthcare providers cared about them. To improve HIV prevention MSM suggested increased education tailored to MSM should be provided to enable self-advocacy and that education and awareness are needed to protect human rights of MSM in Ghana. Conclusion MSM in Ghana are exposed to negative health care climates. Health care spaces that are unsupportive of MSM’s autonomy undermine the uptake of prevention measures such as condoms, HIV testing, and accurate sexual health education. These findings contribute to knowledge to inform development of HIV prevention interventions for MSM in Ghana, such as culturally appropriate sexual health education, and digital technology to connect individuals with resources supportive of MSM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Geoffrey Maina
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Nursing, 214-1301 Central Avenue, Prince Albert, SK, Canada.
| | | | - Leo Wilton
- State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA.,University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Yaw Adu-Sarkodie
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana
| | | | - Nanhua Zhang
- Division of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - LaRon E Nelson
- University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.,St. Michael's Hospital, Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Diop M, Diouf A, Seck SM, Lo G, Ka D, Massaly A, Dieye A, Fall NM, Cisse-Diallo VMP, Diallo-Mbaye K, Lakhe NA, Fortes-Déguénonvo L, Ndour CT, Soumaré M, Seydi M. [Prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen and its associated factors in Senegalese military personnel sent on mission to Darfur]. Pan Afr Med J 2017; 26:154. [PMID: 28533877 PMCID: PMC5429464 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2017.26.154.11594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Au Sénégal, 85% de la population adulte ont été en contact avec le virus de l'hépatite B et environ 11% sont porteurs chroniques de l'antigène de surface de ce virus (AgHBs). Cette infection est peu documentée dans l'armée sénégalaise. L'objectif de cette étude était d'évaluer la prévalence de l'AgHBs chez des militaires sénégalais envoyés en mission au Darfour (Soudan) et d'identifier les facteurs associés. Méthodes Nous avons mené une étude transversale du 1er juillet 2014 au 31 juillet 2014 chez des militaires sénégalais en mission au Darfour. La recherche de l'AgHBs a été effectuée dans le sérum des participants par la méthode immunochromatographique. La recherche de facteurs associés a été réalisée à l'aide d'une régression logistique multivariée. Résultats Notre étude a porté sur 169 militaires de sexe masculin. L'âge moyen était de 36,6 ans ± 9,5. Des antécédents d'hépatopathie chronique au niveau familial, d'exposition sanguine et d'exposition sexuelle ont été retrouvés respectivement chez 12,4% ; 24,9% et 45,6% de la population d'étude. L'AgHBs a été retrouvé chez 24 participants [14,2% (IC95% = 8,9-19,5)]. Après ajustement sur les facteurs de confusion potentiels, l'âge (OR=0,9 IC95% =0,9-1,0), un niveau d'étude universitaire (OR= 9,5 IC95% =1,3-67,1) et l'exposition sexuelle (OR=3,3; IC95% =1,0-10,3) étaient apparus associés de façon indépendante à l'hépatite B. Conclusion Notre étude retrouve une prévalence élevée de l'AgHBs et souligne la nécessité d'une évaluation plus poussée de l'hépatite B chez cette population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moustapha Diop
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Chnu de Fann, Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Assane Diouf
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Chnu de Fann, Dakar, Sénégal.,Ecole de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal (ESPUM), Québec, Canada
| | | | - Gora Lo
- Centre Médical Inter Armée Sud, Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Daye Ka
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Chnu de Fann, Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Aminata Massaly
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Chnu de Fann, Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Alassane Dieye
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Chnu de Fann, Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Ndeye Maguette Fall
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Chnu de Fann, Dakar, Sénégal
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Maserigne Soumaré
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Chnu de Fann, Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Moussa Seydi
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Chnu de Fann, Dakar, Sénégal
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lee VC, Sullivan PS, Baral SD. Global travel and HIV/STI epidemics among MSM: what does the future hold? Sex Health 2017; 14:51-58. [DOI: 10.1071/sh16099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Infectious disease epidemics occur within dynamic systems and environments that shape risk and, ultimately, the spread of infectious diseases. Gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately impacted by HIV everywhere in the world. Several emerging trends present risks for sustained or increased HIV acquisition and transmission, and the growth of global travel in the context of emerging online platforms for social/sexual networking is discussed here. Four factors associated with travel that could potentiate HIV transmission are highlighted: different patterns of sexual risk behaviours during travel; the growth of online tools to meet sex partners more efficiently; the global heterogeneity of HIV strains; and the potential for diassortative mixing of men from high- and low-HIV prevalence areas. Prevention tools and services must rise to these challenges, and innovative mobile applications and programs have played, and will continue to play, an important role in supporting MSM at risk for or living with HIV during their periods of travel.
Collapse
|
12
|
Bórquez A, Cori A, Pufall EL, Kasule J, Slaymaker E, Price A, Elmes J, Zaba B, Crampin AC, Kagaayi J, Lutalo T, Urassa M, Gregson S, Hallett TB. The Incidence Patterns Model to Estimate the Distribution of New HIV Infections in Sub-Saharan Africa: Development and Validation of a Mathematical Model. PLoS Med 2016; 13:e1002121. [PMID: 27622516 PMCID: PMC5021265 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Programmatic planning in HIV requires estimates of the distribution of new HIV infections according to identifiable characteristics of individuals. In sub-Saharan Africa, robust routine data sources and historical epidemiological observations are available to inform and validate such estimates. METHODS AND FINDINGS We developed a predictive model, the Incidence Patterns Model (IPM), representing populations according to factors that have been demonstrated to be strongly associated with HIV acquisition risk: gender, marital/sexual activity status, geographic location, "key populations" based on risk behaviours (sex work, injecting drug use, and male-to-male sex), HIV and ART status within married or cohabiting unions, and circumcision status. The IPM estimates the distribution of new infections acquired by group based on these factors within a Bayesian framework accounting for regional prior information on demographic and epidemiological characteristics from trials or observational studies. We validated and trained the model against direct observations of HIV incidence by group in seven rounds of cohort data from four studies ("sites") conducted in Manicaland, Zimbabwe; Rakai, Uganda; Karonga, Malawi; and Kisesa, Tanzania. The IPM performed well, with the projections' credible intervals for the proportion of new infections per group overlapping the data's confidence intervals for all groups in all rounds of data. In terms of geographical distribution, the projections' credible intervals overlapped the confidence intervals for four out of seven rounds, which were used as proxies for administrative divisions in a country. We assessed model performance after internal training (within one site) and external training (between sites) by comparing mean posterior log-likelihoods and used the best model to estimate the distribution of HIV incidence in six countries (Gabon, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Swaziland, and Zambia) in the region. We subsequently inferred the potential contribution of each group to transmission using a simple model that builds on the results from the IPM and makes further assumptions about sexual mixing patterns and transmission rates. In all countries except Swaziland, individuals in unions were the single group contributing to the largest proportion of new infections acquired (39%-77%), followed by never married women and men. Female sex workers accounted for a large proportion of new infections (5%-16%) compared to their population size. Individuals in unions were also the single largest contributor to the proportion of infections transmitted (35%-62%), followed by key populations and previously married men and women. Swaziland exhibited different incidence patterns, with never married men and women accounting for over 65% of new infections acquired and also contributing to a large proportion of infections transmitted (up to 56%). Between- and within-country variations indicated different incidence patterns in specific settings. CONCLUSIONS It is possible to reliably predict the distribution of new HIV infections acquired using data routinely available in many countries in the sub-Saharan African region with a single relatively simple mathematical model. This tool would complement more specific analyses to guide resource allocation, data collection, and programme planning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annick Bórquez
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Anne Cori
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Erica L. Pufall
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Emma Slaymaker
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Price
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jocelyn Elmes
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Basia Zaba
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amelia C. Crampin
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tom Lutalo
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Mark Urassa
- Mwanza Research Centre, National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Simon Gregson
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy B. Hallett
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Schwartz SR, Nowak RG, Orazulike I, Keshinro B, Ake J, Kennedy S, Njoku O, Blattner WA, Charurat ME, Baral SD. The immediate eff ect of the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act on stigma, discrimination, and engagement on HIV prevention and treatment services in men who have sex with men in Nigeria: analysis of prospective data from the TRUST cohort. Lancet HIV 2016; 2:e299-306. [PMID: 26125047 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(15)00078-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In January, 2014, the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act was signed into law in Nigeria, further criminalising same-sex sexual relationships. We aimed to assess the immediate effect of this prohibition act on stigma, discrimination, and engagement in HIV prevention and treatment services in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Nigeria. METHODS The TRUST cohort study uses respondent-driven sampling to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of engagement of MSM in HIV prevention and treatment services at a clinical site located with a community-based organisation trusted by the MSM community. TRUST is a prospective implementation research cohort of MSM (≥16 years) in Abuja, Nigeria. We compared HIV clinical outcomes and stigma, including fear and avoidance of health care, across baseline and quarterly visits before and after implementation of the the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act. Outcomes assessed were measures of stigma and discrimination, loss to follow-up, antiretroviral therapy status, and viral load. We compared outcomes before and after the legislation with χ2 statistics, and estimated incident stigma-related events and loss to follow-up with Poisson regression. FINDINGS Between March 19, 2013, and Aug 7, 2014, 707 MSM participated in baseline study procedures, contributing to 756 before legislation (prelaw) and 420 after legislation (postlaw) visits. Reported history of fear of seeking health care was significantly higher in postlaw visits than in prelaw visits (n=161 [38%] vs n=187 [25%]; p<0・0001), as was avoidance of health care (n=118 [28%] vs n=151 [20%]; p=0・001). In incidence analyses, of 192 MSM with follow-up data and no history of an event at baseline, reported fear of seeking health care was higher in the postlaw than the prelaw period (n=144; incidence rate ratio 2・57, 95% CI 1・29–5・10; p=0・007); loss to follow-up and incident healthcare avoidance were similar across periods. Of the 161 (89%) of 181 HIV-infected MSM with HIV viral loads available, those who had disclosed sexual behaviour with a health-care provider were more often virally suppressed at baseline than those with no previous disclosure (18 [29%] of 62 vs 13 [13%] of 99 men; p=0・013). INTERPRETATION These analyses represent individual-level, quantitative, real-time prospective data for the health-related effects resulting from the enactment of legislation further criminalising same-sex practices. The negative effects of HIV treatment and care in MSM reinforce the unintended consequences of such legislation on global goals of HIV eradication. Strategies to reach MSM less likely to engage in HIV testing and care in highly stigmatised environments are needed to reduce time to HIV diagnosis and treatment. FUNDING National Institutes of Health.
Collapse
|
14
|
Thomann M. HIV vulnerability and the erasure of sexual and gender diversity in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Glob Public Health 2016; 11:994-1009. [PMID: 26894990 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2016.1143524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In the fight against concentrated HIV epidemics, men who have sex with men (MSM) are often framed as a homogeneous population, with little attention paid to sexual and gender diversity and its impact on HIV vulnerability. This article draws on ethnographic research conducted in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire among les branchés - a local term encompassing several categories of same-sex desire and practice. In the context of increased HIV prevention programming targeting Ivoirian sexual and gender minorities, such diversity is effectively erased. This obfuscation of difference has particularly negative impacts for travestis, who may be at higher risk for HIV infection, though research and prevention efforts in which they are grouped with 'MSM' render them underrepresented and make their vulnerability difficult to quantify. Branchés whose class and/or ethnic backgrounds compound their stigmatised status as sexual and gender minorities also bear the burden of this exclusion. Furthermore, some branchés deploy 'MSM' as a form of self-identification, further complicating who such categories represent. By highlighting the ways in which constructions of gender and sexuality within HIV/AIDS programming obscure complex social realities, I aim to reorient thinking around the development of purposeful HIV programming that engages the complexity of sexual and gender minority experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Thomann
- a Sociomedical Sciences , Columbia University , New York City , NY , USA.,b International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Programs (ICAP), Columbia University , New York City , NY , USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jobson G, Struthers H, McIntyre J. "In the fell clutch of circumstance": HIV and men who have sex with men in sub-Saharan Africa. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2016; 12:164-72. [PMID: 25637162 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-014-0249-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have been repeatedly found to have high risk of HIV infection, and in spite of the differing nature of the HIV epidemic in the general population between East and Southern Africa, and West and Central Africa, MSM are disproportionately affected by HIV across the entire region. Recent research has examined the drivers of HIV risk, and the dynamics of the MSM HIV epidemic in greater detail. However, this growing knowledge has generally not been translated into effective HIV prevention interventions. In part, this is due to the highly stigmatised and frequently criminalised nature of same-sex sexualities in much of the region. Without human-rights-based advocacy targeting governments and interventions aiming to decrease stigma and homophobia, translating research into effective HIV interventions for MSM in SSA at the scale needed to reduce HIV transmission in this population remains highly unlikely.
Collapse
|
16
|
Abara WE, Garba I. HIV epidemic and human rights among men who have sex with men in sub-Saharan Africa: Implications for HIV prevention, care, and surveillance. Glob Public Health 2015; 12:469-482. [PMID: 26514443 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2015.1094107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent research has presented evidence that men who have sex with men (MSM) bear a disproportionate burden of HIV and are at increased risk for HIV in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, many countries in SSA have failed to address the needs of MSM in national HIV/AIDS programmes. Furthermore, many MSM face structural barriers to HIV prevention and care, the most significant of which include laws that criminalise male-to-male sexual contact and facilitate stigma and discrimination. This in turn increases the vulnerability of MSM to acquiring HIV and presents barriers to HIV prevention, care, and surveillance. This relationship illustrates the link between human rights, social justice, and health outcomes and presents considerable challenges to addressing the HIV epidemic among MSM in SSA. The response to the HIV epidemic in SSA requires a non-discriminatory human rights approach to all at-risk groups, including MSM. Existing international human rights treaties, to which many SSA countries are signatories, and a 'health in all policies' approach provides a strong basis to reduce structural barriers to HIV prevention, care, surveillance, and research, and to ensure that all populations in SSA, including MSM, have access to the full range of rights that help ensure equal opportunities for health and wellness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Winston E Abara
- a Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine , Satcher Health Leadership Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine , Atlanta, GA , USA
| | - Ibrahim Garba
- a Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine , Satcher Health Leadership Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine , Atlanta, GA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ruiseñor-Escudero H, Vu A, Wirtz AL, Familiar-Lopez I, Berry M, Mfochive I, Engineer C, Farhad A, Tschakarjan S, Wisse E, Paikan FM, Burnham G. Cross-sectional assessments of participants' characteristics and loss to follow-up in the first Opioid Substitution Therapy Pilot Program in Kabul, Afghanistan. Harm Reduct J 2015; 12:28. [PMID: 26337832 PMCID: PMC4559065 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-015-0062-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Kabul has over 12,000 people who inject drugs (PWID), most of them heroin users, and opioid substitution therapy has recently been introduced as an effective method to reduce opioid use. We aimed to evaluate a pilot Opioid Substitution Therapy Pilot Program (OSTPP) in Kabul, Afghanistan, particularly to (1) describe characteristics of the participants enrolled in the program and (2) identify factors associated with client retention in the OSTPP. Findings Two cross-sectional surveys evaluated participants attending the OSTPP at baseline (n = 83) and 18 months after (n = 57). Questionnaires assessed socio-demographic, drug use behavior, and general and mental health factors. After 18 months, 57 participants remained in the OSTPP. Participants lost to follow-up were younger (p < 0.01) and married (p < 0.01) and had no family contact (p < 0.01). Participants at 18 months reported no criminal activity in the last month and only two (3.5 %) reported heroin use in the last month, constituting significant decreases from baseline. Conclusions While preliminary results are promising, further evaluation is needed to determine the feasibility of implementing OSTPP in this setting and effectiveness in reducing injection risk behaviors in Afghanistan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Horacio Ruiseñor-Escudero
- Department of Psychiatry, Michigan State University, College of Ostheopathic Medicine, 965 E Fee Hall Suite A227, Lansing, MI, 48824, USA. .,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Alexander Vu
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 5801 Smith Avenue, Suite 3220, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Andrea L Wirtz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Itziar Familiar-Lopez
- Department of Psychiatry, Michigan State University, College of Ostheopathic Medicine, 965 E Fee Hall Suite A227, Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Mark Berry
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Iliassou Mfochive
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Cyrus Engineer
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Department of Interprofessional Health Studies, Towson University, Baltimore, MD, 21252, USA
| | | | | | - Ernst Wisse
- Medecins du Monde, Kabul, Afghanistan.,Medecins du Monde, 63 rue de Marcadet, Paris, 75018, France
| | | | - Gilbert Burnham
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Dijkstra M, van der Elst EM, Micheni M, Gichuru E, Musyoki H, Duby Z, Lange JMA, Graham SM, Sanders EJ. Emerging themes for sensitivity training modules of African healthcare workers attending to men who have sex with men: a systematic review. Int Health 2015; 7:151-62. [PMID: 25596188 PMCID: PMC4427535 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihu101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [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: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensitivity training of front-line African health care workers (HCWs) attending to men who have sex with men (MSM) is actively promoted through national HIV prevention programming in Kenya. Over 970 Kenyan-based HCWs have completed an eight-modular online training free of charge (http://www.marps-africa.org) since its creation in 2011. Before updating these modules, we performed a systematic review of published literature of MSM studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa (sSA) in the period 2011-2014, to investigate if recent studies provided: important new knowledge currently not addressed in existing online modules; contested information of existing module topics; or added depth to topics covered already. We used learning objectives of the eight existing modules to categorise data from the literature. If data could not be categorised, new modules were suggested. Our review identified 142 MSM studies with data from sSA, including 34 studies requiring module updates, one study contesting current content, and 107 studies reinforcing existing module content. ART adherence and community engagement were identified as new modules. Recent MSM studies conducted in sSA provided new knowledge, contested existing information, and identified new areas of MSM service needs currently unaddressed in the online training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maartje Dijkstra
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, P.O. Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Elise M van der Elst
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, P.O. Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Murugi Micheni
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, P.O. Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Evanson Gichuru
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, P.O. Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Helgar Musyoki
- National AIDS and STI Control Programme, P.O. Box 19361-00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Zoe Duby
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Anzio Road, Observatory 7705, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joep M A Lange
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health Development, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22700 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Global Health, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22700 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susan M Graham
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, P.O. Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Eduard J Sanders
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, P.O. Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya Department of Global Health, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22700 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Holland CE, Papworth E, Billong SC, Kassegne S, Petitbon F, Mondoleba V, Moukam LV, Macauley I, Eyene Ntsama SP, Yomb YR, Eloundou J, Mananga F, Tamoufe U, Baral SD. Access to HIV Services at Non-Governmental and Community-Based Organizations among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) in Cameroon: An Integrated Biological and Behavioral Surveillance Analysis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122881. [PMID: 25906046 PMCID: PMC4408025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Men who have sex with men (MSM) are more likely to be living with HIV than other adult men in low- and middle-income countries. MSM experience barriers to accessing HIV services including a lack of available specialized care, and community-level stigma and discrimination. This study aims to examine the uptake of HIV services at non-governmental and community-based organizations (NGOs/CBOs) to identify ways to improve coverage of HIV prevention and treatment among MSM. Methods An Integrated Biological and Behavioral Surveillance (IBBS) survey was conducted in Yaoundé and Douala, Cameroon in 2011 using the respondent driven sampling (RDS) method to recruit and interview 239 MSM in Yaoundé and 272 MSM in Douala. Results MSM in Yaoundé were statistically significantly more likely to have accessed NGO/CBO services or been reached by an outreach worker in the past 12 months if they had any STI symptoms (aOR 2.17 CI 1.02-4.59. p=0.04), or if they had a larger MSM social network (aOR 1.02 CI 1.01-1.04. p<0.01). MSM in Douala were more likely to have accessed NGO/CBO services or been reached by an outreach worker in the past 12 months if they were living with HIV (aOR 3.60 CI 1.35-9.60. p=0.01), or if they reported higher numbers of male sexual partners (aOR 1.17 CI 1.00-1.36. p=0.046). Compared to men in Douala, MSM in Yaoundé were significantly less likely to have accessed NGO/CBO services or been reached by an outreach worker in the past 12 months (aOR 0.22 CI 0 .14-0.34. p=<0.01). Conclusions With appropriate funding and resources, community-based organizations that provide care specifically for MSM can improve access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care services. Additionally, using social networks to reach MSM can connect greater numbers of the population to effective HIV interventions, which will improve health outcomes and decrease onward transmission of HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire E. Holland
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, United States of America
- * E-mail: .
| | - Erin Papworth
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, United States of America
| | - Serge C. Billong
- Central Technical Group, National AIDS Control Committee, Ministry of Public Health, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Valentin Mondoleba
- Cameroon National Association for Family Welfare (CAMNAFAW), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Laure Vartan Moukam
- Association Camerounaise pour le Marketing Sociale (ACMS), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Stefan D. Baral
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Globally, HIV infection remains a significant issue for key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers. A review of recent articles was conducted for west African countries to assess the burden of disease among female sex workers and MSM, access to services and identify barriers to implementation of services for key populations. RECENT FINDINGS In west Africa, key populations engage in high-risk practices for the acquisition of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Available HIV prevalence data fluctuate across and within countries for both MSM and female sex workers and may be five to ten times as high as that of the general population. HIV prevalence varied from 15.9% in The Gambia to 68% in Benin among female sex workers, whereas it ranged from 9.8% in The Gambia to 34.9% in Nigeria for MSM. Yet, important data gaps exist, including key populations size estimations in several countries as well as HIV prevalence, incidence and other biomarkers of HIV risk. Because of sociocultural, legal, political and economic challenges, exacerbated by a poor health system infrastructure, the HIV response is not strategically directed toward programs for key populations in countries with concentrated epidemics. Noteworthy is the low coverage of prevention care and treatment interventions offered to key populations. SUMMARY Sufficient planning and political will with legal and structural frameworks that reconcile public health and human rights are needed to prioritize HIV prevention, care and treatment programming for key populations programs in west Africa.
Collapse
|
21
|
Nelson LE, Wilton L, Agyarko-Poku T, Zhang N, Zou Y, Aluoch M, Apea V, Hanson SO, Adu-Sarkodie Y. Predictors of condom use among peer social networks of men who have sex with men in Ghana, West Africa. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0115504. [PMID: 25635774 PMCID: PMC4312093 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghanaian men who have sex with men (MSM) have high rates of HIV infection. A first step in designing culturally relevant prevention interventions for MSM in Ghana is to understand the influence that peer social networks have on their attitudes and behaviors. We aimed to examine whether, in a sample of Ghanaian MSM, mean scores on psychosocial variables theorized to influence HIV/STI risk differed between peer social networks and to examine whether these variables were associated with condom use. We conducted a formative, cross-sectional survey with 22 peer social networks of MSM (n = 137) in Ghana. We assessed basic psychological-needs satisfaction, HIV/STI knowledge, sense of community, HIV and gender non-conformity stigmas, gender equitable norms, sexual behavior and condom use. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, generalized estimating equations, and Wilcoxon two sample tests. All models were adjusted for age and income, ethnicity, education, housing and community of residence. Mean scores for all psychosocial variables differed significantly by social network. Men who reported experiencing more autonomy support by their healthcare providers had higher odds of condom use for anal (AOR = 3.29, p<0.01), oral (AOR = 5.06, p<0.01) and vaginal (AOR = 1.8, p<0.05) sex. Those with a stronger sense of community also had higher odds of condom use for anal sex (AOR = 1.26, p<0.001). Compared to networks with low prevalence of consistent condom users, networks with higher prevalence of consistent condom users had higher STD and HIV knowledge, had norms that were more supportive of gender equity, and experienced more autonomy support in their healthcare encounters. Healthcare providers and peer social networks can have an important influence on safer-sex behaviors in Ghanaian MSM. More research with Ghanaian MSM is needed that considers knowledge, attitudes, and norms of their social networks in the development and implementation of culturally relevant HIV/STI prevention intervention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- LaRon E. Nelson
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States of America
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Leo Wilton
- State University of New York at Binghamton, College of Community and Public Affairs, Department of Human Development, Binghamton, NY, United States of America
- Faculty of Humanities, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Nanhua Zhang
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Yuanshu Zou
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Marilyn Aluoch
- University of South Florida, College of Nursing, Tampa, FL, United States of America
| | - Vanessa Apea
- Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Barts & the Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Yaw Adu-Sarkodie
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, School of Medical Sciences, Kumasi, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Baral SD, Friedman MR, Geibel S, Rebe K, Bozhinov B, Diouf D, Sabin K, Holland CE, Chan R, Cáceres CF. Male sex workers: practices, contexts, and vulnerabilities for HIV acquisition and transmission. Lancet 2015; 385:260-73. [PMID: 25059939 PMCID: PMC4504188 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(14)60801-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Male sex workers who sell or exchange sex for money or goods encompass a very diverse population across and within countries worldwide. Information characterising their practices, contexts where they live, and their needs is limited, because these individuals are generally included as a subset of larger studies focused on gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) or even female sex workers. Male sex workers, irrespective of their sexual orientation, mostly offer sex to men and rarely identify as sex workers, using local or international terms instead. Growing evidence indicates a sustained or increasing burden of HIV among some male sex workers within the context of the slowing global HIV pandemic. Several synergistic facilitators could be potentiating HIV acquisition and transmission among male sex workers, including biological, behavioural, and structural determinants. Criminalisation and intersectional stigmas of same-sex practices, commercial sex, and HIV all augment risk for HIV and sexually transmitted infections among male sex workers and reduce the likelihood of these people accessing essential services. These contexts, taken together with complex sexual networks among male sex workers, define this group as a key population underserved by current HIV prevention, treatment, and care services. Dedicated efforts are needed to make those services available for the sake of both public health and human rights. Evidence-based and human rights-affirming services dedicated specifically to male sex workers are needed to improve health outcomes for these men and the people within their sexual networks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan David Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - M Reuel Friedman
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Kevin Rebe
- Anova Health Institute, Health4Men, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | - Claire E Holland
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Stephenson R, Hast M, Finneran C, Sineath CR. Intimate partner, familial and community violence among men who have sex with men in Namibia. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2014; 16:473-87. [PMID: 24735113 PMCID: PMC4492211 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2014.889753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men in sub-Saharan Africa are known to experience high levels of violence, yet little research has focused on their perceptions of intimate partner violence (IPV). This study examines the perceived typologies and sources of multiple forms of violence, including IPV, family/community violence and discrimination from healthcare workers, among men who have sex with men in Namibia. Focus-group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted with a 52 men residing in five cities across Namibia. Results indicate that violence, in varying forms, is commonplace in the lives of men who have sex with men in this community, and may be associated with HIV testing patterns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rob Stephenson
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, USA
| | - Marisa Hast
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, USA
| | - Catherine Finneran
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, USA
| | - Craig R. Sineath
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
A pilot cohort study to assess the feasibility of HIV prevention science research among men who have sex with men in Dakar, Senegal. J Int AIDS Soc 2013; 16 Suppl 3:18753. [PMID: 24321115 PMCID: PMC3852354 DOI: 10.7448/ias.16.4.18753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2013] [Revised: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately burdened by HIV in Senegal, across sub-Saharan Africa and throughout the world. This is driven in part by stigma, and limits health achievements and social capital among these populations. To date, there is a limited understanding of the feasibility of prospective HIV prevention studies among MSM in Senegal, including HIV incidence and cohort retention rates. METHODS One hundred and nineteen men who reported having anal sex with another man in the past 12 months were randomly selected from a sampling frame of 450 unique members of community groups serving MSM in Dakar. These men were enrolled in a 15-month pilot cohort study implemented by a community-based partner. The study included a structured survey instrument and biological testing for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B virus at two time points. RESULTS Baseline HIV prevalence was 36.0% (43/114), with cumulative HIV prevalence at study end being 47.2% (51/108). The annualized incidence rate was 16% (8/40 at risk for seroconversion over 15 months of follow-up, 95% confidence interval 4.6-27.4%). Thirty-seven men were lost to follow up, including at least four deaths. Men who were able to confide in someone about health, emotional distress and sex were less likely to be HIV positive (OR 0.36, p < 0.05, 95% CI 0.13, 0.97). CONCLUSIONS High HIV prevalence and incidence, as well as mortality in this young population of Senegalese MSM indicate a public health emergency. Moreover, given the high burden of HIV and rate of incident HIV infections, this population appears to be appropriate for the evaluation of novel HIV prevention, treatment and care approaches. Using a study implemented by community-based organizations, there appears to be feasibility in implementing interventions addressing the multiple levels of HIV risk among MSM in this setting. However, low retention across arms of this pilot intervention, and in the cohort, will need to be addressed for larger-scale efficacy trials to be feasible.
Collapse
|
25
|
Epidemiology of HIV among female sex workers, their clients, men who have sex with men and people who inject drugs in West and Central Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2013; 16 Suppl 3:18751. [PMID: 24321113 PMCID: PMC3852130 DOI: 10.7448/ias.16.4.18751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction
The West and Central Africa (WCA) sub-region is the most populous region of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with an estimated population of 356 million living in 24 countries. The HIV epidemic in WCA appears to have distinct dynamics compared to the rest of SSA, being more concentrated among key populations such as female sex workers (FSWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID) and clients of FSWs. To explore the epidemiology of HIV in the region, a systematic review of HIV literature among key populations in WCA was conducted since the onset of the HIV epidemic. Methods
We searched the databases PubMed, CINAHL and others for peer-reviewed articles regarding FSWs, MSM and PWID in 24 countries with no date restriction. Inclusion criteria were sensitive and focused on inclusion of any HIV prevalence data among key populations. HIV prevalence was pooled, and in each country key themes were extracted from the literature. Results
The search generated 885 titles, 214 abstracts and 122 full articles, of which 76 met inclusion and exclusion criteria providing HIV prevalence data. There were 60 articles characterizing the burden of disease among FSWs, eight for their clients, one for both, six for MSM and one for PWID. The pooled HIV prevalence among FSWs was 34.9% (n=14,388/41,270), among their clients was 7.3% (n=435/5986), among MSM was 17.7% (n=656/3714) and among PWID from one study in Nigeria was 3.8% (n=56/1459). Conclusions
The disproportionate burden of HIV among FSWs appears to be consistent from the beginning of the HIV epidemic in WCA. While there are less data for other key populations such as clients of FSWs and MSM, the prevalence of HIV is higher among these men compared to other men in the region. There have been sporadic reports among PWID, but limited research on the burden of HIV among these men and women. These data affirm that the HIV epidemic in WCA appears to be far more concentrated among key populations than the epidemics in Southern and Eastern Africa. Evidence-based HIV prevention, treatment and care programmes in WCA should focus on engaging populations with the greatest burden of disease in the continuum of HIV care.
Collapse
|
26
|
|
27
|
Lo MS. Confidant par excellence, advisors and healers: women traders' intersecting identities and roles in Senegal. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2013; 15 Suppl 4:S467-S481. [PMID: 23701191 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2013.793404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Characteristics associated with West African women traders often hinge on their resilience, ingenuity and savvy business practices under precarious economic conditions and changing ecologies. Moreover, traders are defined, identified and classified by their trade and the commodities associated with their trading practice. However, a social analysis and ethnography of trading practices challenges this taxonomy and suggests the relational and social embeddedness of such economic transactions and the unexpected intersecting roles traders perform as confidants, advisers and healers. This paper examines the multiple roles that Senegalese traders embody and perform and the vast repertoire of knowledge and cultural registers they employ as advisers on sexuality, matrimonial affairs and conjugality. It posits to reframe trade and the marketplace, not only as a fulcrum of economic transaction, but also as locus of affective interactions, performative-counselling practices and fluid space where traders impart knowledge to their female clientele on a wide spectrum of issues such as sexuality, conjugality and the aesthetics of intimacy. Lastly, it seeks to unveil new analytics and theorising on the evolving, embodied and performative roles of women traders and market women, while proving contextual and culturally-textured insights on 'counselling' and its interpretation in Senegal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marieme S Lo
- a New College, Women and Gender Studies Institute, University of Toronto , Toronto , Canada
| |
Collapse
|