Utilization of medical treatments and adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-positive adults with histories of childhood sexual abuse

Childhood sexual abuse and antiretroviral therapy adherence among older adults living with HIV: a mixed methods study

Findings on the association between childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence have been varied, with some studies showing a relationship, or a lack thereof. However, to our knowledge, no study has examined this association among older adults living with HIV (OALH). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the association between CSA and ART adherence among OALH using a mixed methods approach. This study, which involved a concurrent design, had two phases. The first phase comprised in-depth, semi-structured interviews of 24 adults aged 50 and older living with HIV in South Carolina. The second phase included data from 91 OALH. Thematic analysis and multivariable regression models, adjusting for age, gender, race, and income, were used to determine the association between CSA and ART adherence. The main theme emerging from the qualitative data was that CSA was not linked with ART adherence. However, contrastingly, quantitative analyses revealed a negative statistically significant association between CSA and ART adherence (adjusted β: -3.35; 95% CI: -5.37, -1.34). This difference in findings could be due to the hidden impact of trauma and/or the use of different study populations. Future research should assess mediating pathways between CSA and ART adherence.

Clinic screening for adverse childhood experiences in people living with HIV to Improve Care Delivery

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with negative health outcomes; however, screening for ACEs is not routinely performed among people living with HIV (PLWH). We conducted a single-center, cross-sectional pilot study to define the (1) prevalence of ACEs in PLWH and (2) acceptability of ACEs screening in routine out-patient clinical care. One hundred participants completed screening: median age of participants was 49 years (interquartile range: 38.5-59.5), 73% male, 66% Non-Hispanic Black/African American, and 47% gay/lesbian. Clinically significant ACEs score, defined as ≥4, was reported in 51%. High ACEs score was more common among participants <50 years old (64.7% vs. 36.7%; p < 0.01), but the prevalence of ACEs ≥4 did not differ by gender, race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. Among participants with ≥4 ACEs, 44.4% screened negative on both PHQ-9 and PC-PTSD screens. The majority of participants (89%) reported a positive experience with ACEs screening. The prevalence of clinically significant ACEs in this clinic population of PLWH was more than twice that reported in the general population. Routine ACEs screening can improve delivery of trauma-informed care in the HIV primary care setting.

Age and Sex Disparities in Sexual Trauma, Depressive Symptoms, and Antiretroviral Adherence Among People Living with HIV in the Deep South: A Mediation Analysis

People living with HIV (PLWH) have a higher risk of experiencing sexual assault compared to populations without HIV. Prior studies have shown independent associations between sexual assault, depression, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. However, research analyzing the potential mediating effects of depressive symptoms between sexual assault and ART adherence, and the associated age and sex disparities, especially among PLWH in the Southern United States, is lacking. Therefore, the current study sought to determine whether depressive symptoms mediate the association between sexual assault and ART adherence and to evaluate the associated age and sex disparities among PLWH in South Carolina. Data were collected from 337 individuals who received HIV care from an immunology center in South Carolina. Crude and adjusted path analysis models stratified by age and sex were used to determine the association between sexual assault, depressive symptoms, and ART adherence. Depressive symptoms were associated with ART adherence among adults aged 18-34 (β = - 0.281, p = .018) and 35-49 (β = - 0.185, p = .005), and men (β = - 0.205, p = .011). Sexual assault was associated with depressive symptoms (β = 0.211, p = .001) and with ART adherence (β = - 0.172, p = .010) among adults 35-49. Among men (β = - 0.238; p = .029) and women (β = - 0.344, p = .001), sexual assault was associated with ART adherence; among women, sexual assault was associated with depressive symptoms (β = 0.280, p = .006). Depressive symptoms mediated the association between sexual assault and ART adherence among adults 35-49 (β = - 0.039, p = .035). Interventions addressing depressive symptoms may improve ART adherence among adults aged 18-34 and 35-49 and men. Programs also addressing depressive symptoms and using trauma-informed approaches may improve ART adherence, especially among middle-age populations, men, and women.

Childhood Sexual Trauma and Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) has been shown to be more prevalent among populations living with HIV. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is crucial for populations living with HIV as it significantly increases the likelihood of attaining and maintaining viral suppression. Previous findings on the association between CSA and ART adherence have been mixed. The current mixed-methods systematic review aimed to identify quantitative and qualitative studies from CINAHL, PsycInfo, PubMed, and Web of Science examining the relationship between CSA and ART adherence. Authors were also contacted if relevant data were unpublished. Studies had to be published from January 1, 2000 to April 1, 2019, written in English, and examined CSA as an exposure and ART adherence as an outcome. Four domains were combined: 1) childhood sexual abuse; 2) child; 3) antiretroviral; and 4) adherence. Eight quantitative and two qualitative studies were retained. The results showed that four quantitative studies found no association while the other four found factors such as timing of victimization, mental health and gender influenced the association between CSA and ART adherence. Themes emerging from the qualitative studies included use of ART evoking memories of CSA; CSA impacting mental health; and mental health treatment improving ART adherence. Mixed insights included the intricate links between CSA and ART adherence and the role of external factors on the relationship. ART adherence intervention programs may be needed for people who have experienced CSA. However, future studies are needed that will examine the association between CSA and ART adherence and include subgroup analyses.

Process and Outcome Evaluation of a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Intervention for Cisgender and Transgender African American Women Living with HIV/AIDS

There is a need for evidence-based contextualized mental health interventions for persons living with HIV/AIDS. In the current study, the primary researcher conducted open trials with African American women living with HIV/AIDS (AAWLWHA) to examine the acceptability and feasibility of Project UPLIFT, a mindfulness-based cognitive therapy intervention that has demonstrated effectiveness in persons living with epilepsy. Women were recruited for a tele-delivered phone intervention group separated by gender identity, as well as participated in pre- and post-test assessments. Additionally, data on acceptability was collected. Both cis- and transgender women were highly satisfied with the intervention and demonstrated improvement in depressive and stress symptoms. The intervention seemed to be particularly feasible for cisgender women, though more qualitative mental health research may be warranted with transgender women. The current research has implications for the utility of mindfulness-based interventions such as UPLIFT, with AAWLWHA.

Screening for Traumatic Experiences and Mental Health Distress Among Women in HIV Care in Cape Town, South Africa

Traumatic events can negatively affect clinical outcomes among HIV positive women, particularly when those events result in ongoing psychological distress. Consequently, there have been calls to integrate screening and treatment of traumatic experiences and associated mental health disorders into HIV care. In South Africa, screening for traumatic experiences and mental health is not a routine part of HIV care. The goal of this study was to examine the prevalence of traumatic experiences and mental health distress among women in an HIV clinic in Cape Town, South Africa, and to explore the acceptability of routine screening in this setting. Seventy HIV positive women were screened following referral from health care workers in the clinic. Among the participants, 51% reported a history of sexual abuse and 75% reported physical intimate partner violence (physical IPV). Among all participants, 36% met screening criteria for depression; among those with traumatic experiences (n = 57), 70% met screening criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Compared with reporting no sexual abuse or physical IPV, having experienced both sexual abuse and physical IPV was significantly associated with higher odds of depression, while reporting either sexual abuse or physical IPV individually was not significantly associated with increased odds of depression. Among women reporting sexual abuse, 61% were disclosing their experience for the first time during the screening; 31% of women with physical IPV experience were disclosing for the first time. Overall, 98% of participants thought screening should be routine and extended to all women as part of clinic care. Screening women for sexual abuse and physical IPV may be an important component of ensuring HIV care engagement.

Examining the association between stress and antiretroviral therapy adherence among women living with HIV in Toronto, Ontario

BACKGROUND

We aimed to identify the association between stress and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among women in HIV care in Toronto, Ontario participating in the Ontario HIV Treatment Network Cohort Study (OCS) between 2007 and 2012.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted cross-sectional analyses with women on ART completing the AIDS Clinical Trial Group (ACTG) Adherence Questionnaire. Data closest to, or at the last completed interview, were collected from medical charts, through record linkage with Public Health Ontario Laboratories, and from a standardized self-reported questionnaire comprised of socio-demographic and psycho-socio-behavioral measures (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT)), and stress measures (National Population Health Survey). Logistic regression was used to quantify associations with optimal adherence (≥95% adherence defined as missing ≤ one dose of ART in the past 4 weeks).

RESULTS

Among 307 women, 65.5% had optimal adherence. Women with suboptimal compared to optimal adherence had higher median total stress scores (6.0 [interquartile range (IQR): 3.0-8.1] vs. 4.1 [IQR: 2.0-7.1], p = 0.001), CES-D scores (16 [IQR: 6-28] vs. 12 [IQR: 3-22], p = 0.008) and reports of hazardous and harmful alcohol use (31.1% vs. 17.9%, p = 0.008). In our multivariable model, we found an increased likelihood of optimal adherence with the absence of hazardous and harmful alcohol use (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR)=2.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.12-4.32) and a decreased likelihood of optimal adherence with more self-reported stress (AOR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.33-0.94).

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions supporting optimal ART adherence should address stress and include strategies to reduce or eliminate hazardous and harmful alcohol use for women living with HIV.

ImPlementation REsearCh to DEvelop Interventions for People Living with HIV (the PRECluDE consortium): Combatting chronic disease comorbidities in HIV populations through implementation research

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) prevented premature mortality and improved the quality of life among people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH), such that now more than half of PLWH in the United States are 50 years of age and older. Increased longevity among PLWH has resulted in a significant rise in chronic, comorbid diseases. However, the implementation of guideline-based interventions for preventing, treating, and managing such age-related, chronic conditions among the HIV population is lacking. The PRECluDE consortium supported by the Center for Translation Research and Implementation Science at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute catalyzes implementation research on proven-effective interventions for co-occurring heart, lung, blood, and sleep diseases and conditions among PLWH. These collaborative research studies use novel implementation frameworks with HIV, mental health, cardiovascular, and pulmonary care to advance comprehensive HIV and chronic disease healthcare in a variety of settings and among diverse populations.

Enhancing patient and organizational readiness for cardiovascular risk reduction among Black and Latinx patients living with HIV: Study protocol

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an increasingly important cause of morbidity and mortality among people living with HIV (PLWH) now that HIV is a manageable chronic disease. Identification and treatment of comorbid medical conditions for PLWH, including CVD and its risk factors, typically lack a critical component of care: integrated care for histories of trauma. Experiences of trauma are associated with increased HIV infection, CVD risk, inconsistent treatment adherence, and poor CVD outcomes. To address this deficit among those at greatest risk and disproportionately affected by HIV and trauma-i.e., Black and Latinx individuals-a novel culturally-congruent, evidence-informed care model, "Healing our Hearts, Minds and Bodies" (HHMB), has been designed to address patients' trauma histories and barriers to care, and to prepare patients to engage in CVD risk reduction. Further, in recognition of the need to ensure that PLWH receive guideline-concordant cardiovascular care, implementation strategies have been identified that prepare providers and clinics to address CVD risk among their Black and Latinx PLWH. The focus of this paper is to describe the hybrid Type 2 effectiveness/implementation study design, the goal of which is to increase both patient and organizational readiness to address trauma and CVD risk among 260 Black and Latinx PLWH recruited from two HIV service organizations in Southern California. This study is expected to produce important information regarding the value of the HHMB intervention and implementation processes and strategies designed for use in implementing HHMB and other evidence-informed programs in diverse, resource-constrained treatment settings, including those that serve patients living in deep poverty. Clinical trials registry: NCT04025463.

Mental health and retention in HIV care: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Mental health (MH) diagnoses, which are prevalent among persons living with HIV infection, might be linked to failed retention in HIV care. This review synthesized the quantitative evidence regarding associations between MH diagnoses or symptoms and retention in HIV care, as well as determined if MH service utilization (MHSU) is associated with improved retention in HIV care.

METHOD

A comprehensive search of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Synthesis database of electronic (e.g., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO) and manual searches was conducted to identify relevant studies published during January 2002-August 2017. Effect estimates from individual studies were pooled by using random-effects meta-analysis, and a moderator analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

Forty-five studies, involving approximately 57,334 participants in total, met the inclusion criteria: 39 examined MH diagnoses or symptoms, and 14 examined MHSU. Overall, a significant association existed between MH diagnoses or symptoms, and lower odds of being retained in HIV care (odds ratio, OR = 0.94; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.90, 0.99]). Health insurance status (β = 0.004; Z = 3.47; p = .001) significantly modified the association between MH diagnoses or symptoms and retention in HIV care. In addition, MHSU was associated with an increased odds of being retained in HIV care (OR = 1.84; 95% CI [1.45, 2.33]).

CONCLUSIONS

Results indicate that MH diagnoses or symptoms are a barrier to retention in HIV care and emphasize the importance of providing MH treatment to HIV patients in need. (PsycINFO Database Record

Still I rise: The need for self-validation and self-care in the midst of adversities faced by Black women with HIV

OBJECTIVES

Psychosocial factors of trauma and abuse, racial discrimination, HIV stigma, and gender-related stressors (e.g., prioritizing others' needs) have been associated with antiretroviral treatment (ART) nonadherence and poor viral suppression among Black women living with HIV (BWLWH). To inform the development of an intervention addressing these psychosocial factors to improve ART adherence, the authors sought the insight of BWLWH.

METHOD

Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted with 30 BWLWH to gather information on their experiences with trauma, racism, HIV stigma, gender-related stressors, ART adherence, and coping strategies, and their insights on the proposed intervention. Participants' interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded using thematic content analysis and grounded theory.

RESULTS

Participants shared (a) their experiences with trauma/abuse, racism, HIV-stigma, gender-related stress, and medication adherence; (b) coping strategies they use (e.g., social support, awareness [acknowledging systemic racism], assertiveness, selective disclosure of HIV status, and prioritizing the self); (c) how each of these adversities relate to their medication adherence and how they found ways to self-validate and practice self-primacy and self-care, including medication adherence in spite of adversities; and (d) enthusiasm for the proposed intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Culturally adapted interventions are needed to improve the health of BWLWH by enhancing coping strategies for the multiple adversities they face and promoting self-validation, self-primacy, and self-care in spite of adversities. (PsycINFO Database Record

Behavioral Interventions Targeting Alcohol Use Among People Living with HIV/AIDS: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Alcohol use is often reported among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) and is associated with increased sexual risk and poor medication adherence. This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of behavioral interventions addressing alcohol use among PLWHA. Twenty-one studies (N = 8461 PLWHA) that evaluated an individual-level intervention addressing alcohol use alone or as part of a more comprehensive alcohol/HIV intervention, included a control condition, and were available through December 2016 were included. Independent raters coded study, sample, and intervention content. Weighted mean effect sizes, using random-effects models, were calculated. Results indicate that interventions reduced alcohol consumption, increased condom use, and improved medication adherence relative to controls (d +s = 0.10-0.24). Plasma viral load was also reduced in intervention versus control participants (d + = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.02, 0.26; k = 7). These findings show that behavioral interventions addressing alcohol use can successfully reduce alcohol consumption and also improve HIV-related outcomes among PLWHA.

Substance Use Disorders, Violence, Mental Health, and HIV: Differentiating a Syndemic Factor by Gender and Sexuality

This paper measures syndemic substance use disorder, violence, and mental health and compares the syndemic among HIV-infected heterosexual men, heterosexual women, and men who have sex with men (MSM). Data were from a sample of high needs substance-using, HIV-infected people in South Florida between 2010 and 2012 (n = 481). We used confirmatory factor analysis to measure a syndemic latent variable and applied measurement invariance models to identify group differences in the data structure of syndemic co-morbidities among heterosexual men, heterosexual women, and MSM. We found that variables used to measure the syndemic fit each sub-group, supporting that substance use disorder, violence, and mental health coincide in HIV-infected individuals. Heterosexual men and MSM demonstrated similar syndemic latent variable factor loadings, but significantly different item intercepts, indicating that heterosexual men had larger mean values on substance use disorder, anxiety, and depression than MSM. Heterosexual men and heterosexual women demonstrated significantly different syndemic variable factor loadings, indicating that anxiety and depression contribute more (and substance use contributes less) to the syndemic in heterosexual men compared to heterosexual women. MSM and heterosexual women demonstrated similar syndemic latent variable factor loadings and intercepts, but had significantly different factor residual variances indicating more variance in violent victimization and depression for MSM and more variance in stress for heterosexual women than what is captured by the observed syndemic indicators. Furthermore, heterosexual women had a larger syndemic factor mean than MSM, indicating that the syndemic burden is greater among heterosexual women than MSM. Our findings support that measurement invariance can elucidate differences in the syndemic to tailor interventions to sub-group needs.

Mental Health Burden Among Impoverished HIV-Positive Patients in Peru

HIV and poor mental health are intricately related. In settings of poverty, both are often rooted in structural factors related to material and social deprivation. We performed a qualitative analysis to understand factors contributing to poor emotional health and its impact among impoverished Peruvian HIV-infected individuals. We conducted focus group discussions with patients and providers consisting of semistructured, open-ended questions. Qualitative analysis provided insight into the profound impact of depression, isolation, stigma, and lack of social support among these patients. Living with HIV contributed significantly to mental health problems experienced by HIV-positive individuals; furthermore, long-standing stressors-such as economic hardship, fragmented family relationships, and substance use-shaped patients' outlooks, and may have contributed not only to current emotional hardship but to risk factors for contracting HIV as well. Once diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, many patients experienced hopelessness, stigma, and socioeconomic marginalization. Patients tended to rely on informal sources of support, including peers and community health workers, and rarely used formal mental health services. In resource-poor settings, the context of mental health problems among HIV-positive individuals must be framed within the larger structural context of poverty and social exclusion. Optimal strategies to address the mental health problems of these individuals should include integrating mental health services into HIV care, task shifting to utilize community health workers where human resources are scarce, and interventions aimed at poverty alleviation.

Multiple syndemic psychosocial factors are associated with reduced engagement in HIV care among a multinational, online sample of HIV-infected MSM in Latin America

Latin America has some of the highest levels of antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage of any developing region in the world. Early initiation and optimal adherence to ART are necessary for improved health outcomes and reduction in onward transmission. Previous work has demonstrated the role of psychosocial problems as barriers to uptake and adherence to ART, and recently, a syndemic framework has been applied to the role of multiple psychosocial syndemic factors and adherence to ART, in the USA. However, to our knowledge, these associations have not been investigated outside of the USA, nor in a multi-country context. To address these gaps, we assessed the association between multiple co-occurring psychosocial factors and engagement in HIV-related medical care and adherence to ART among a large, multinational sample of sexually-active HIV-infected men who have sex with men in Latin America.

Among the 2020 respondents, 80.7% reported currently receiving HIV-related medical care, 72.3% reported currently receiving ART; among those, 62.5% reported 100% adherence. Compared with experiencing no psychosocial health problems, experiencing five or more psychosocial health problems is associated with 42% lower odds of currently receiving HIV-related medical care (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.36, 0.95) and of currently receiving ART (aOR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.38, 0.91). The number of psychosocial health problems experienced was associated with self-reported ART adherence in a dose–response relationship; compared to those with none of the factors, individuals with one syndemic factor had 23% lower odds (aOR = 0.77, 95% CI 0.60, 0.97) and individuals with five or more syndemic factors had 72% lower odds (aOR = 0.28, 95% CI 0.14, 0.55) of reporting being 100% adherent to ART. Addressing co-occurring psychosocial problems as potential barriers to uptake and adherence of ART in Latin America may improve the effectiveness of secondary prevention interventions.

Barriers to HIV Medication Adherence: Examining Distinct Anxiety and Depression Symptoms among Women Living with HIV Who Experienced Childhood Sexual Abuse

Experiencing sexual violence in childhood or adolescence is highly prevalent among some women living with HIV, often resulting in anxiety and depression symptoms in adulthood. Anxiety and depression have been associated with HIV medication nonadherence, yet little research has assessed distinct components of anxiety and depression as risk factors of HIV medication nonadherence. The current study examined distinct symptom components of anxiety and depression as predictors of HIV medication non-adherence among women living with HIV and childhood sexual abuse enrolled in a coping intervention. This secondary analysis included a sample of 85 women living with HIV and childhood sexual abuse and being prescribed antiretroviral medication who completed measures on anxiety, depression, and medication adherence. Results from a logistic regression analysis suggest that distinct components of anxiety may be related to medication nonadherence among this population. Targeted mental health interventions for this population may increase adherence to antiretroviral medication.

Methods to Obtain a Representative Sample of Ryan White-Funded Patients for a Needs Assessment in Los Angeles County: Results from a Replicable Approach

The Health Resources and Services Administration requires that jurisdictions receiving Ryan White (RW) funding justify need, set priorities, and provide allocations using evidence-based methods. Methods and results from the 2011 Los Angeles Coordinated HIV/AIDS Needs Assessment-Care (LACHNA-Care) study are presented. Individual-level weights were applied to expand the sample from 400 to 18 912 persons, consistent with the 19 915 clients in the system. Awareness, need, and utilization for medical outpatient care were high (>90%). Other services (eg, child care) had limited awareness (21%). Majority of participants reported at least 1 service gap (81%). Lack of insurance (risk ratio [RR] = 3.0, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5-6.2), substance use (RR = 2.9, 95% CI: 1.3-6.4), and past lapses in medical care (RR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.3-5.9) were associated with gaps. Within clusters, past incarceration was associated with gaps for housing (RR = 13.5, 95% CI: 3.5-52.1), transportation (RR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.2-8.4), and case management (RR = 4.0, 95% CI: 1.3-12.2). Applied methods resulted in representative data instrumental to RW program planning efforts.

Emergency department use among HIV-infected released jail detainees

Release from short-term jail detention is highly destabilizing, associated with relapse to substance use, recidivism, and disrupted health care continuity. Little is known about emergency department (ED) use, potentially a surrogate for medical, psychiatric, or social instability, by people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) leaving jails. All ED visits were reviewed from medical records for a cohort of 109 PLHWA in the year following release from county jail in Connecticut, between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2010. Primary outcomes were frequency and timing of ED visits, modeled using multivariate negative binomial regression and Cox proportional hazards regression, respectively. Demographic, substance use, and psychiatric disorder severity factors were evaluated as potential covariates. Overall, 71 (65.1%) of the 109 participants made 300 unique ED visits (2.75 visits/person-year) in the year following jail-release. Frequency of ED use was positively associated with female sex (incidence rate ratios, IRR 2.40 [1.36-4.35]), homelessness (IRR 2.22 [1.15-4.41]), and recent substance use (IRR 2.47 [1.33-4.64]), and inversely associated with lifetime drug severity (IRR 0.01 [0-0.10]), and being retained in HIV primary care (IRR 0.80 [0.65-0.99]). Those in late or sustained HIV care used the ED sooner than those not retained in HIV primary care (median for late retention 16.3 days, median for sustained retention 24.9 days, median for no retention not reached at 12 months, p value 0.004). Using multivariate modeling, those who used the ED earliest upon release were more likely to be homeless (HR 1.98 [1.02-3.84]), to be retained in HIV care (HR 1.30 [1.04-1.61]), and to have recently used drugs (HR 2.51 [1.30-4.87]), yet had a low lifetime drug severity (HR 0.01 [0.00-0.14]). Among PLWHA released from jail, frequency of ED use is high, often soon after release, and is associated with social and drug-related destabilizing factors. Future interventions for this specific population should focus on addressing these resource gaps, ensuring housing, and establishing immediate linkage to HIV primary care after release from jail.

The syndemic illness of HIV and trauma: implications for a trauma-informed model of care

BACKGROUND

People living with HIV infection are disproportionately burdened by trauma and the resultant negative health consequences, making the combination of HIV infection and trauma a syndemic illness. Despite the high co-occurrence and negative influence on health, trauma and posttraumatic sequelae in people living with HIV infection often go unrecognized and untreated because of the current gaps in medical training and lack of practice guidelines.

OBJECTIVE

We set out to review the current literature on HIV infection and trauma and propose a trauma-informed model of care to target this syndemic illness.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, and Cochrane review databases for articles that contained the following search terms: HIV AND either trauma (specifically violent trauma), PTSD, intimate partner violence (IPV), abuse, or trauma-informed care. Articles were limited to primary clinical research or metanalyses published in English. Articles were excluded if they referred to HIV-associated posttraumatic stress disorder or HIV-associated posttraumatic growth.

RESULTS

We confirm high, but variable, rates of trauma in people living with HIV infection demonstrated in multiple studies, ranging from 10%-90%. Trauma is associated with (1) increased HIV-risk behavior, contributing to transmission and acquisition of the virus; (2) negative internal and external mediators also associated with poor health and high-risk HIV behavior; (3) poor adherence to treatment; (4) poor HIV-related and other health outcomes; and (5) particularly vulnerable special populations.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should consider using a model of trauma-informed care in the treatment of people living with HIV infection. Its adoption in different settings needs to be matched to available resources.

Depression and adherence to antiretroviral therapy in low-, middle- and high-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

We investigated the associations between depressive symptoms and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among people living with HIV (PLHIV). We searched the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL databases for studies that reported an association between depression and adherence to ART as a primary or secondary outcome. We used a random-effect model to pool the risk estimates from the individual studies. The odds ratio (OR) with their 95 % CIs were used as summary estimates. Of 2861 citations, 111 studies that recruited 42,366 PLHIV met our inclusion criteria. When reported, the rate of PLHIV with depressive symptoms ranged from 12.8 to 78 % and the proportion of PLHIV who achieved good adherence (≥ 80 %) ranged from 20 to 98 %. There were no significant differences in rate of depressive symptoms in PLHIV by country income group; however, the proportion of PLHIV who achieved good adherence was significantly higher in lower-income countries (as defined in the 2012 World Bank Country Income Groups) (pooled rate=86 %) compared to higher-income countries (pooled rate=67.5 %; p< .05). We found that the likelihood of achieving good ART adherence was 42 % lower among those with depressive symptoms compared to those without (pooled OR=0.58, 95 % CI 0.55 to 0.62). The relationship between depressive symptoms and adherence to ART was consistent across the country's income group, study design and adherence rates. We found that the magnitude of the association significantly decreases with more recent publications and increasing study sample size. The higher the prevalence of depressive symptoms of PLHIV recruited in the studies, the lower the likelihood of achieving good adherence to ART. In conclusion, the likelihood of achieving good adherence was lower among those with depressive symptoms compared to those without.

Psychosocial correlates of gender-based violence among HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women in three US cities

Gender-based violence (GBV) is common among women with and at risk for HIV, yet little is known about the GBV associated psychological factors that could be modifiable through behavioral interventions. The current study examined the associations between some of these psychological factors (i.e., hopelessness, consideration of future consequences, self esteem), mental health symptoms, substance abuse, and GBV among a sample of 736 HIV-infected and sociodemographically similar uninfected participants in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS). Results indicated high rates of lifetime GBV among the sample (58%), as well as high rates of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) (22.2%). HIV-infected women were more likely to be hopeless and to experience lower consideration of future consequences as compared to uninfected women. Multivariable analysis indicated that current non-injection drug use and a history of injection drug use were the main correlates of GBV and CSA, even when other psychosocial variables were included in analytic models. Being born outside of the US reduced the likelihood of GBV and CSA. Future research directions and intervention implications are discussed.

Abuse and resilience in relation to HAART medication adherence and HIV viral load among women with HIV in the United States

Abuse is highly prevalent among HIV+ women, leading to behaviors, including lower adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) that result in poor health outcomes. Resilience (functioning competently despite adversity) may buffer the negative effects of abuse. This study investigated how resilience interacted with abuse history in relation to HAART adherence, HIV viral load (VL), and CD4+ cell count among a convenience sample of 138 HIV+ women from the Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center/Cook County Health and Hospital Systems site of the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS). Resilience was measured by the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). HAART adherence (≥95% vs. <95% self reported usage of prescribed medication) and current or prior sexual, physical, or emotional/domestic abuse, were reported during structured interviews. HIV viral load (≥20 vs. <20 copies/mL) and CD4+ count (200 vs. <200 cells/mm) were measured with blood specimens. Multiple logistic regressions, controlling for age, race, income, enrollment wave, substance use, and depressive symptoms, indicated that each unit increase in resilience was significantly associated with an increase in the odds of having ≥95% HAART adherence and a decrease in the odds of having a detectable viral load. Resilience-Abuse interactions showed that only among HIV+ women with sexual abuse or multiple abuses did resilience significantly relate to an increase in the odds of ≥95% HAART adherence. Interventions to improve coping strategies that promote resilience among HIV+ women may be beneficial for achieving higher HAART adherence and viral suppression.

Gender moderates the influence of psychosocial factors and drug use on HAART adherence in the context of HIV and childhood sexual abuse

This study aimed to examine gender moderation within a stress and coping model of HIV medication adherence in adults with a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Sequelae of CSA, including negative coping, psychological distress, and drug use, interfere with adherence to highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). These obstacles to adherence are likely moderated by gender. Gender may particularly influence the mediational effect of drug use on adherence. Participants included 206 adults living with HIV/AIDS and CSA. Categorical/continuous variable methodology in a structural equation modeling framework was used to test a multigroup model with women and men. Gender significantly moderated several effects in the model. For women, the effect of psychological distress on HAART adherence was mediated by drug use and the effect of drug use on viral load was mediated by HAART adherence. Among men, drug use did not significantly impact adherence. Since gender appears to moderate the effect of drug use on medication adherence, it is particularly important to address drug use within the context of HIV disease management in women with a history of CSA. Further, interventions to increase HAART adherence should take trauma history, gender, and drug abuse into account when assessing efficacy.

The relationship between sexual trauma, peritraumatic dissociation, posttraumatic stress disorder, and HIV-related health in HIV-positive men

This study tested a novel extension of P. P. Schnurr and B. L. Green's (2004) model of the relationships between trauma symptoms and health outcomes with specific application to HIV-positive men. A diverse sample of 167 HIV-positive men recruited from San Francisco Bay Area HIV clinics completed demographic, medical, trauma history, and symptom questionnaires. Mediation analyses were conducted using the method proposed by R. Baron and D. Kenny (1986). Regression analyses found that sexual revictimization (SR) significantly mediated the relationship between child sexual abuse and peritraumatic dissociation (PD), and PD mediated the relationship between SR and current posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptom severity. PTS symptoms partially mediated the relationship between SR and current HIV symptom severity. The findings indicate that among HIV-positive men, sexually revictimized men constitute a vulnerable group that is prone to PD, which places them at risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and worsened HIV-related health. Furthermore, traumatic stress symptoms were associated with worse HIV-related symptoms, suggesting that PTS symptoms mediate the link between trauma and health outcomes. This study highlights the need for future research to identify the biobehavioral mediators of the PTSD-health relationship in HIV-positive individuals.

Medical service use among individuals receiving HIV prevention services in Los Angeles County

Timely provision of medical services among communities at increased risk of HIV infection is crucial to detect the infection and to further prevent the spread of HIV. In the US, about one third of HIV cases were identified in the later stage of infection. The current study utilized the Gelberg-Andersen behavioral model for predicting medical service use among people who were at risk of HIV infection. The candidate variables included: social support, attitudinal, and behavioral variables. The data were collected from clients of HIV prevention agencies in Los Angeles County in 2004 who participated in the Countywide Risk Assessment Survey (CRAS). Using a logistic regression model, the study suggested that factors that were positively associated with use of medical services included living in a treatment center/halfway house or mission/shelter, experience of physical/sexual abuse, and ever receiving HIV testing/counseling. Factors inversely associated with medical service use were male gender, education, and consumption of alcohol. Analysis was conducted using SAS 9.3. Most of the findings are consistent with the Gelberg-Andersen model. The exception was that victims of physical or sexual abuse were more likely to use services instead of less likely as predicted by the model.

A cross-sectional survey of childhood trauma and compliance with general health care among adult primary care outpatients

OBJECTIVE

Beyond the examination of medication compliance among individuals with substance abuse or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), few studies have examined relationships between childhood trauma and health care compliance in adulthood-the focus of the present study.

METHOD

Using a cross-sectional approach and a self-report survey methodology, we examined 5 types of childhood trauma (ie, witnessing violence, physical neglect, emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse) in relationship to 4 measures of general health care compliance (ie, self-rated general conscientiousness with medical treatment; 5 items pertaining to general health care compliance such as scheduling regular dental checkups, timely arrival for doctor's appointments, and timely completion of laboratory work; 2 medication compliance items; and the Medical Outcomes Study general adherence score) among a sample of adult primary care outpatients (N = 272). Data were collected in March 2014.

RESULTS

According to findings, some health care adherence variables demonstrated relationships with the summed childhood trauma score, whereas others did not. It could be interpreted that the more subjective health care compliance variables (eg, self-rated conscientiousness with regard to medical treatment) demonstrated no relationship with a summed childhood trauma score, whereas the more objective health care compliance variables (eg, frequency of regular dental checkups, ability to remember to take all medications, Medical Outcomes Study general adherence score) did demonstrate statistically significant relationships with a summed childhood trauma score (most at P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with histories of childhood trauma demonstrate some deficits with health care compliance in comparison to those without childhood trauma. One interpretation is that the mistreated appear to believe that they are fairly compliant with health care treatment, but objective variables appear to suggest otherwise.

High rates of lifetime and recent violence observed among harder-to-reach women living with HIV

This study examined the prevalence and correlates associated with lifetime and recent violence among a sample of harder-to-reach human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive women living in British Columbia (BC), Canada. Interviewer-led surveys with 1000 participants gathered quantitative data on social, economic, and structural characteristics such as housing status, relationship status, family structure, history of drug use, and sexual behavior. Logistic regression analysis modeled associations between independent variables and experiences of violence at baseline. Cox regression analyses with time-dependent covariates determined correlates of lifetime and recent violence among HIV-positive women. Of the 249 women in the study, an overwhelming proportion of women (81%) reported experiences of violence in their lifetime. Among those, 22% reported recent experiences of violence, and 56% of the women reported more than five violent episodes in their lifetime. Lifetime violence was independently associated with HIV-related stigma (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14-5.70), previous tobacco use (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.10-7.07), ever having a drinking problem (AOR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.28-6.23), and ever having received care for a mental health condition (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.06-5.52). Recent violence was associated with the current illicit drug use (AOR = 2.60, 95% CI = 1.14-5.90), and currently residing in unstable housing (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI = 1.31-5.78). This study underscores the need to consider potential experiences of historical and current violence as part of comprehensive care for women living with HIV.

HIV-infected men who have sex with men and histories of childhood sexual abuse: implications for health and prevention

A personal history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is prevalent and deleterious to health for people living with HIV (PLWH), and current statistics likely underrepresent the frequency of these experiences. In the general population, the prevalence of CSA appears to be higher in men who have sex with men (MSM) than heterosexual men, but there are limited data available for HIV-infected MSM. CSA is associated with poor mental and physical health and may contribute to high rates of HIV risk behaviors, including unprotected sex and substance abuse. CSA exposure is also associated with low engagement in care for PLWH. More information is needed regarding CSA experiences of HIV-infected MSM to optimize health and wellbeing for this population and to prevent HIV transmission. This article reviews the epidemiology, implications, and interventions for MSM who have a history of CSA.

Recent trauma is associated with antiretroviral failure and HIV transmission risk behavior among HIV-positive women and female-identified transgenders

Trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder disproportionally affect HIV-positive women. Studies increasingly demonstrate that both conditions may predict poor HIV-related health outcomes and transmission-risk behaviors. This study analyzed data from a prevention-with-positives program to understand if socio-economic, behavioral, and health-related factors are associated with antiretroviral failure and HIV transmission-risk behaviors among 113 HIV-positive biological and transgender women. An affirmative answer to a simple screening question for recent trauma was significantly associated with both outcomes. Compared to participants without recent trauma, participants reporting recent trauma had over four-times the odds of antiretroviral failure (AOR 4.3; 95% CI 1.1-16.6; p = 0.04), and over three-times the odds of reporting sex with an HIV-negative or unknown serostatus partner (AOR 3.9; 95% CI 1.3-11.9; p = 0.02) and <100% condom use with these partners (AOR 4.5; 95% CI 1.5-13.3; p = 0.007). Screening for recent trauma in HIV-positive biological and transgender women identifies patients at high risk for poor health outcomes and HIV transmission-risk behavior.

Emergency department use by released prisoners with HIV: an observational longitudinal study

BACKGROUND

Many people living with HIV access healthcare systems through the emergency department (ED), and increased ED use may be indicative of disenfranchisement with primary HIV care, under-managed comorbid disease, or coincide with use of other healthcare resources. The goal of this study was to investigate ED use by HIV-infected prisoners transitioning to communities.

METHODS

We evaluated ED use by 151 HIV-infected released prisoners who were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of directly administered versus self-administered antiretroviral therapy in Connecticut. Primary outcomes were quantity and type of ED visits and correlates of ED use were evaluated with multivariate models by Poisson regression.

RESULTS

In the 12 months post-release, there were 227 unique ED contacts made by 85/151 (56%) subjects. ED visits were primarily for acute febrile syndromes (32.6%) or pain (20.3%), followed by substance use issues (19.4%), trauma (18%), mental illness (11%), and social access issues (4.4%). Compared to those not utilizing the ED, users were more likely to be white, older, and unmarried, with less trust in their physician and poorer perceived physical health but greater social support. In multivariate models, ED use was correlated with moderate to severe depression (IRR = 1.80), being temporarily housed (IRR = 0.54), and alcohol addiction severity (IRR = 0.21) but not any surrogates of HIV severity.

CONCLUSIONS

EDs are frequent sources of care after prison-release with visits often reflective of social and psychiatric instability. Future interventions should attempt to fill resource gaps, engage released prisoners in continuous HIV care, and address these substantial needs.

Substance use: impact on adherence and HIV medical treatment

Substance use is highly prevalent among people living with HIV/AIDS, is often comorbid with other mental health problems, related to poor HIV medical outcomes, and, is associated with poor medication and treatment adherence. The current review reports on the recent state of the literature in terms of substance use and its relation to HIV medication and treatment adherence, and offers recommendations for advancing treatment and secondary HIV prevention efforts. Identifying substance users within HIV primary care and developing, evaluating, and refining integrative substance use-mental health-adherence interventions may be clinically important targets for effective disease management and may contribute to secondary HIV prevention efforts.

Relationships among childhood trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder, and dissociation in men living with HIV/AIDS

This study examined the relationships among dissociation, childhood trauma and sexual abuse, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in HIV-positive men. Data were collected from 167 men enrolled in a randomized clinical trial that examined a group therapy intervention to decrease HIV-related risk behavior and trauma-related stress symptoms. Participants completed the Trauma History Questionnaire, the Impact of Events Scale-Revised, and the Stanford Acute Stress Reaction Questionnaire. Overall, 35.3% of the participants reported having experienced childhood sexual abuse. A total of 55.7% of the sample met diagnostic criteria for PTSD. The intensity of dissociative symptoms that participants endorsed was positively associated with experience of childhood sexual abuse (r = .20, p < .01). Dissociative symptoms were also positively associated with specific PTSD symptoms, notably hyperarousal (r = .69, p < .001). Hierarchical regression indicated that hyperarousal symptoms accounted for more of the variance in dissociation than childhood sexual abuse. These results suggest that childhood sexual abuse may be involved in the development of dissociative symptoms in the context of adulthood stress reactions. Furthermore, the pattern of the association between dissociation and PTSD is consistent with the possibility of a dissociative PTSD subtype among HIV-positive men.

Time to first annual HIV care visit and associated factors for patients in care for HIV infection in 10 US cities

BACKGROUND

Visiting a medical provider less frequently than clinical circumstances would suggest is appropriate has been reported to be associated with worse clinical outcomes for patients living with HIV infection. Patients with less frequent attendance to HIV care also may be systematically underrepresented in research or surveillance studies that enroll patients sequentially over a specified enrollment period - for example several months. For both reasons, understanding factors associated with time to care visit is important.

METHODS

We used data from the Adult and Adolescent Spectrum of HIV Disease (ASD) project, a multi-site clinical outcomes surveillance system that enrolled and followed patients in care for HIV prospectively from 1990 to 2004. For this analysis, we used data from all patients observed in ASD at least one time before 1 January 2003, and who had at least one HIV care visit in 2003. We documented time to first annual HIV care visit for each patient, and used Kaplan-Meier plots and proportional hazards regression to describe factors associated with longer time to care visit.

RESULTS

A total of 12,135 patients had ≥1 care visit during 2003 and were included in the analysis. Of these, 81%, 88%, and 95% had their first visit within three, four, and six months, respectively. In multivariate analysis, having a delayed (later) care visit was associated with not ever having had an AIDS diagnosis, having an HIV RNA concentration ≥10,000 copies/mL, having a current CD4 count <100 cells/µL, having no health insurance, and not being currently prescribed antiretroviral therapy. Having a delayed care visit was not associated with race/ethnicity or age.

CONCLUSIONS

Having a delayed first annual HIV care visit was associated with higher viremia, lower CD4 cell count, and lack of health insurance. Interventions to address these factors are likely to ameliorate some of the consequences of HIV. For studies enrolling patients in care for HIV over a finite time period, an enrollment period of four-six months should sufficiently reflect the patient population seen in a one-year period, including those attending care infrequently.

Substance abuse, violence, and HIV in women: a literature review of the syndemic

Women in the United States are increasingly affected by HIV/AIDS. The SAVA syndemic-synergistic epidemics of substance abuse, violence, and HIV/AIDS-is highly prevalent among impoverished urban women and potentially associated with poor HIV outcomes. A review of the existing literature found 45 articles that examine SAVA's impact on (1) HIV-associated risk-taking behaviors, (2) mental health, (3) healthcare utilization and medication adherence, and (4) the bidirectional relationship between violence and HIV status. Overall, results confirm the profound impact of violence and victimization and how it is intertwined with poor decision making, increased risk taking and negative health consequences, particularly in the context of substance abuse. Among current findings, there remain diverse and inconsistent definitions for substance abuse, violence, mental illness, adherence, and healthcare utilization that confound interpretation of data. Future studies require standardization and operationalization of definitions for these terms. Development and adaptation of evidence-based interventions that incorporate prevention of violence and management of victimization to target this vulnerable group of women and thereby promote better health outcomes are urgently needed.

A mixed-methods approach to synthesizing evidence on mediators of intervention effects

Greater understanding of the mechanisms (mediators) by which behavioral-change interventions work is critical to developing theory and refining interventions. Although systematic reviews have been advocated as a method for exploring mediators, this is rarely done. One challenge is that intervention researchers typically test only two paths of the mediational model: the effect of the intervention on mediators and on outcomes. The authors addressed this challenge by drawing information not only from intervention studies but also from observational studies that provide data on associations between potential mediators and outcomes. They also reviewed qualitative studies of participants' perceptions of why and how interventions worked. Using data from intervention (n = 37) and quantitative observational studies (n = 55), the authors conducted a meta-analysis of the mediation effects of eight variables. Qualitative findings (n = 6) contributed to more in-depth explanations for findings. The methods used have potential to contribute to understanding of core mechanisms of behavioral-change interventions.

Sexual minority status and trauma symptom severity in men living with HIV/AIDS

Traumatic experiences are common among populations living with HIV; furthermore, the minority stress model indicates that sexual minority group members, such as men who have sex with men (MSM), are more likely to experience negative psychological outcomes after exposure to trauma, given the stress of minority stigma. The current study examined the prevalence of traumatic events and the impact of these events on trauma symptoms in a sample of 113 MSM and 51 men who have sex with women (MSW) who are living with HIV/AIDS. Rates of experiencing trauma were similar for both MSM and MSW. However, MSM, as sexual minority group members, were more likely to report symptoms of trauma and dissociation than MSW. The current study indicates that MSM may experience additional negative psychological outcomes after exposure to trauma. Findings are discussed in the context of implications for HIV prevention with sexual minority group members.

Nanoformulated antiretroviral drug combinations extend drug release and antiretroviral responses in HIV-1-infected macrophages: implications for neuroAIDS therapeutics

We posit that improvements in pharmacokinetics and biodistributions of antiretroviral therapies (ART) for human immunodeficiency virus type one-infected people can be achieved through nanoformulationed drug delivery systems. To this end, we manufactured nanoparticles of atazanavir, efavirenz, and ritonavir (termed nanoART) and treated human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) in combination therapies to assess antiretroviral responses. This resulted in improved drug uptake, release, and antiretroviral efficacy over monotherapy. MDM rapidly, within minutes, ingested nanoART combinations, at equal or similar rates, as individual formulations. Combination nanoART ingested by MDM facilitated individual drug release from 15 to >20 days. These findings are noteworthy as a nanoART cell-mediated drug delivery provides a means to deliver therapeutics to viral sanctuaries, such as the central nervous system during progressive human immunodeficiency virus type one infection. The work brings us yet another step closer to realizing the utility of nanoART for virus-infected people.

Analyses of nanoformulated antiretroviral drug charge, size, shape and content for uptake, drug release and antiviral activities in human monocyte-derived macrophages

Long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART) for human immunodeficiency virus type one (HIV-1) infection shows limitations in pharmacokinetics and biodistribution while inducing metabolic and cytotoxic aberrations. In turn, ART commonly requires complex dosing schedules and leads to the emergence of viral resistance and treatment failures. We posit that the development of nanoformulated ART could preclude such limitations and affect improved clinical outcomes. To this end, we wet-milled 20 nanoparticle formulations of crystalline indinavir, ritonavir, atazanavir, and efavirenz, collectively referred to as "nanoART," then assessed their performance using a range of physicochemical and biological tests. These tests were based on cell-nanoparticle interactions using monocyte-derived macrophages and their abilities to uptake and release nanoformulated drugs and affect viral replication. We demonstrate that physical characteristics such as particle size, surfactant coating, surface charge, and most importantly shape are predictors of cell uptake and antiretroviral efficacy. These studies bring this line of research a step closer to developing nanoART that can be used in the clinic to affect the course of HIV-1 infection.

The impact of shame on health-related quality of life among HIV-positive adults with a history of childhood sexual abuse

Childhood sexual abuse is prevalent among people living with HIV, and the experience of shame is a common consequence of childhood sexual abuse and HIV infection. This study examined the role of shame in health-related quality of life among HIV-positive adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse. Data from 247 HIV-infected adults with a history of childhood sexual abuse were analyzed. Hierarchical linear regression was conducted to assess the impact of shame regarding both sexual abuse and HIV infection, while controlling for demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors. In bivariate analyses, shame regarding sexual abuse and HIV infection were each negatively associated with health-related quality of life and its components (physical well-being, function and global well-being, emotional and social well-being, and cognitive functioning). After controlling for demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors, HIV-related, but not sexual abuse-related, shame remained a significant predictor of reduced health-related quality of life, explaining up to 10% of the variance in multivariable models for overall health-related quality of life, emotional, function and global, and social well-being and cognitive functioning over and above that of other variables entered into the model. Additionally, HIV symptoms, perceived stress, and perceived availability of social support were associated with health-related quality of life in multivariable models. Shame is an important and modifiable predictor of health-related quality of life in HIV-positive populations, and medical and mental health providers serving HIV-infected populations should be aware of the importance of shame and its impact on the well-being of their patients.

Mental health treatment to reduce HIV transmission risk behavior: a positive prevention model

Secondary HIV prevention, or "positive prevention," is concerned with reducing HIV transmission risk behavior and optimizing the health and quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The association between mental health and HIV transmission risk (i.e., sexual risk and poor medication adherence) is well established, although most of this evidence is observational. Further, a number of efficacious mental health treatments are available for PLWHA yet few positive prevention interventions integrate mental health treatment. We propose that mental health treatment, including behavioral and pharmacologic interventions, can lead to reductions in HIV transmission risk behavior and should be a core component of secondary HIV prevention. We present a conceptual model and recommendations to guide future research on the effect of mental health treatment on HIV transmission risk behavior among PLWHA.

Barriers to HIV care: an exploration of the complexities that influence engagement in and utilization of treatment

This study is an exploration of engagement in outpatient medical care, medication utilization, and barriers to treatment utilization among 24 predominantly low-income, ethnic minority adults who were admitted to an urban hospital for HIV-related illnesses. A semi-structured interview was administered during the sample's hospital stay to explore patterns of service use and identify barriers to care. The majority of the sample was connected to an outpatient provider and satisfied with the care they received; however, most missed treatment appointments and skipped medication dosages. Health and treatment-related barriers, competing demands, and co-occurring mental health symptoms and illicit substance use were identified as barriers to care. Multiple obstacles indigenous to the individual, their treatment, and the environment prevented consistent treatment use among an economically disadvantaged ethnic minority sample: Implications and future directions in engaging vulnerable populations into health care for HIV are discussed.

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy in conflict areas: a study among patients receiving treatment from Lacor Hospital, Uganda

The interaction between limited resources, living in conflict areas, and complexity of HIV treatment may impact negatively on adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Nonadherence may lead to development of resistant strains that may further increase the costs of management. The aim of this study was to compare the level of adherence to ART among internally displaced persons (IDPs) and non-IDPs and determine the factors associated with nonadherence. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to February 2008 among adults receiving ART from Lacor Hospital. Systematic sampling was used to select 200 participants. Adherence was assessed through patients' self-reports over a 4-day period. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed in SPSS version 12 (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL). Patients were considered to be adherent if they took 95% or more of their medicines. Adherence rates among IDP and non-IDP patients were compared using Mann-Whitney U test. Factors associated with nonadherence were determined using logistic regression. The overall mean 4-day adherence was 99.5%. There was no significant difference in adherence between IDPs and non-IDPs (99.6% and 99.5%, respectively). Being on first-line regimen of ART (odds ratio [OR] = 22.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.48-333.33) and feeling that staff at the health centre were condemning (OR = 22.22, 1.53-333.33) were independently associated with nonadherence. Our study was limited in using only self-reports to assess adherence. In conclusion, patients in conflict areas can achieve high levels of adherence. Interventions to reduce nonadherence should address health provider-patient interaction and patients on first-line regimens.