Buffering effects of general and medication-specific social support on the association between substance use and HIV medication adherence

Effects of a medication adherence app among medically underserved adults with chronic illness: a randomized controlled trial

For individuals living with a chronic illness who require use of long-term medications, adherence is a vital aspect of successful symptom management and outcomes. This study investigated the effect of a smartphone app on adherence, self-efficacy, knowledge, and medication social support in a medically underserved adult population with various chronic illnesses. Participants were randomized to a group who used the app for one month or a control group provided with a printed medication list. Compared to the control group, participants receiving the intervention had significantly greater medication adherence (Cohen's d = -0.52, p = .014) and medication self-efficacy (Cohen's d = 0.43, p = .035). No significant effects were observed related to knowledge or social support. The findings suggest use of the app could positively impact chronic disease management in a medically underserved population in the United States.

Psychosocial factors associated with medication burden among community-dwelling older people with multimorbidity

BACKGROUND

Older people with multimorbidity are often prescribed multiple medication treatments, leading to difficulties in self-managing their medications and negative experiences in medication use. The perceived burden arising from the process of undertaking medication self-management practices has been described as medication burden. Preliminary evidence has suggested that patients' demographic and clinical characteristics may impact their medication burden. Little is known regarding how psychosocial factors affect medication burden in older people with multimorbidity. The aim of this study was to identify psychosocial factors associated with medication burden among community-dwelling older people with multimorbidity.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional study. A total of 254 older people with three or more chronic conditions were included in the analysis. Participants were assessed for demographics, medication burden, psychosocial variables (depression, medication-related knowledge, beliefs, social support, self-efficacy, and satisfaction), disease burden, and polypharmacy. Medication burden was measured using items from the Treatment Burden Questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate linear regression models explored factors associated with medication burden.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 70.90 years. Participants had an average of 4.40 chronic conditions, and over one-third had polypharmacy. Multivariate analysis showed that the participants' satisfaction with medication treatments (β = -0.32, p < 0.001), disease burden (β = 0.25, p = 0.009), medication self-efficacy (β = -0.21, p < 0.001), polypharmacy (β = 0.15, p = 0.016), and depression (β = 0.14, p = 0.016) were independently associated with medication burden. Other factors, including demographic characteristics, medication knowledge, medication beliefs, medication social support, and the number or specific types of chronic conditions, were not independently associated with medication burden.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor medication treatment satisfaction, great disease burden, low medication self-efficacy, polypharmacy, and depression may increase individuals' medication burden. Understanding psychosocial aspects associated with medication burden provides an important perspective for identifying older people who are overburdened by their medication treatments and offering individualised treatments to relieve their burden.

Validation and adaption of an Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model of medication adherence in older patients with multimorbidity

OBJECTIVE

To test and adapt the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills (IMB) model in explaining medication adherence for older patients with multimorbidity.

METHODS

Older patients with at least three chronic conditions (N = 254) were recruited from community health centers in Changsha, China. All participants completed a self-administrated questionnaire assessing adherence information, personal motivation, social motivation, behavioral skills, medication adherence, depressive symptoms, medication treatment satisfaction, treatment burden, and disease burden. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the hypothesized models and relationships between variables.

RESULTS

The final extended IMB model could explain 52.0% of the variance in adherence. Personal motivation (β = 0.29, p < 0.001), behavioral skills (β = 0.36, p < 0.001), and medication treatment satisfaction (β = 0.23, p = 0.001) had a positive direct effect on adherence. Information, social motivation, personal motivation, medication treatment satisfaction, and treatment burden could also affect adherence indirectly through multiple pathways.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that an extended IMB model could be used to conceptualize determinants of medication adherence among older patients with multimorbidity.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Adherence improvement programs might be more effective if targeting psychosocial factors, including adherence information, motivation, behavioral skills, treatment burden, and medication treatment satisfaction.

The Effect of Initial Patient Experiences and Life Stressors on Predicting Lost to Follow-Up in Patients New to an HIV Clinic

We conducted a prospective cohort study of 450 patients new to an HIV clinic in Houston, TX, to examine the roles of life stressors and initial care experiences in predicting being lost to follow-up in the first year of care. Patients completed a self-administered survey following their initial provider visit. In logistic regression models, patients who reported better experiences with the HIV provider at the first visit were less likely to be lost to follow-up at 6 months (aOR = 0.866, p = 0.038) and 12 months (aOR = 0.825, p = 0.008). Patients with a higher burden of stressful life events were more likely to be lost to follow-up at 6 months (aOR = 1.232, p = 0.037) and 12 months (aOR = 1.263, p = 0.029). Assessments of patient experience and life stressors at the initial visit have potential to predict patients at risk of dropping out of care.

Stigma, Social Support, and Substance Use in Diverse Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women Living with HIV in the US Southeast

OBJECTIVES

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) rates in the southeast United States are high and substance use is common among people living with HIV (PLWH). This study used baseline data from the weCare intervention study to examine factors associated with the use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana among racially and ethnically diverse young gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and transgender women in the southeast who were newly diagnosed as having HIV, not linked to care, out of care, and/or not virally suppressed.

METHODS

Self-reported data were collected from 196 GBMSM and transgender women living with HIV via Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview at enrollment. Measures assessed demographics; stigma; social support; basic and clinical service needs; HIV disclosure; social media use; and recent use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. Logistic regression identified correlates of past 30-day substance use.

RESULTS

In multivariable analysis, increased age and needing basic support services were associated with past 30-day tobacco, cigarette, electronic cigarette, and/or hookah use. Increased HIV-related stigma and needing basic support services were associated with past 30-day marijuana use. Being White and needing clinical support services were associated with infrequent or no past 30-day marijuana use.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-related stigma and needing basic support services were associated with substance use among GBMSM and transgender women living with HIV in the southeastern United States. Routine screening for basic needs could identify GBMSM and transgender women living with HIV at risk for substance use and offer insight into intervention leverage points.

Mental health and implications for antiretroviral adherence in a multiethnic Asian cohort

OBJECTIVES

Research suggests a high prevalence of depression and anxiety in people living with HIV, resulting in negative health outcomes and poorer help-seeking behaviours when undetected. Subsequent disease progression and non-adherence to treatment constitute a significant barrier to HIV treatment. This paper aims to identify the risk factors for the development of psychological distress and non-adherence to antiretroviral medication in people living with HIV.

METHODS

An HIV outpatient clinical service screened for anxiety and depressive symptoms. As part of a retrospective analysis of the cohort, independent sample t-test and χ² test were conducted to examine differences between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients in demographic variables such as mode of transmission and disclosure to family; clinical indicators such as psychiatric history and history of alcohol and substance use; and outcome variables such as current psychological distress and non-adherence. Binary logistic regression was conducted to determine predictors of psychological distress and non-adherence.

RESULTS

After adjusting for age, no history of alcohol use and psychiatric history were found to be significant risk factors for psychological distress during the programme. Older patients were less likely to be symptomatic during the programme. After adjusting for age, having received intervention and psychiatric history, significant risk factors for non-adherence to antiretroviral medication were mode of transmission, history of smoking and being symptomatic during the programme.

CONCLUSION

Significant psychological distress occurring early in HIV care predicts future non-adherence to antiretroviral treatment, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention for psychological distress in people living with HIV. Mental health interventions should be intercalated with treatment adherence interventions to improve HIV treatment outcomes.

A community-based nurse-led medication self-management intervention in the improvement of medication adherence in older patients with multimorbidity: protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Background

Older patients suffering from multimorbidity are at high risk of medication nonadherence. It has been well established that self-management support is an effective strategy to enhance medication adherence for patients with chronic conditions. However, little is known about the effect of the medication self-management intervention in older patients with multimorbidity. This paper presents the protocol for a study that aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-led medication self-management intervention in improving medication adherence and health outcomes for community-dwelling older patients with multimorbidity.

Methods

The study protocol follows the recommendations of the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials 2013 statement. This study is a multicentre, single-blind, two-arm randomised controlled trial. Older patients with multimorbidity will be recruited from three community health centres in Changsha, China. A total of 136 participants will be randomly allocated to receive usual care or usual care plus the medication self-management intervention. The intervention will be delivered by community nurses. The 6-week intervention includes three face-to-face education sessions and two weekly follow-up phone calls. Participants in the control group continue to receive all respects of usual care offered by community healthcare providers, including chronic disease management, drug prescription, referral to hospital specialists, health education and consultations regarding patients’ diseases and treatments during centre visits. The primary outcome is medication adherence as measured by the 5-item Medication Adherence Report Scale. Secondary outcomes include medication self-management capacity (medication knowledge, medication beliefs, medication social support, medication skills, and medication self-efficacy), treatment experiences (medication treatment satisfaction and treatment burden), quality of life, and utilisation of healthcare services. All outcomes will be measured at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at 3-month post-intervention.

Discussion

This study will provide evidence about the effectiveness of a medication self-management intervention, delivered by nurses, for older patients with multimorbidity and adherence problems. It is expected that the results of the study, if proven effective in improving patients’ adherence and health outcomes, will provide evidence-based self-management support strategies for healthcare providers in routine chronic disease management in community settings.

Trial registration

The trial is registered at ChiCTR.org.cn (ChiCTR2000030011; date February 19, 2020).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-021-02097-x.

Social Support Mitigates Negative Impact of Food Insecurity on Antiretroviral Adherence Among Postpartum Women in Western Kenya

Food insecurity (FI), low social support, and low health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are associated with self-reported nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among postpartum women, but these relationships have not been evaluated using objective adherence indicators. Hair samples were therefore analyzed among 83 postpartum Kenyan women living with HIV on efavirenz and nevirapine ART drug regimens in an observational cohort (NCT02974972). FI (0-27), social support (0-40), and HRQoL (8-40) in the prior month were also assessed. In multivariable models, each point increase in FI and decrease in HRQoL were associated with a 45.1% (95% CI: -64.3%, -15.6%) and 10.5% decrease (95% CI: 1.0%, 22.1%) in hair ART drug concentrations respectively, when social support was held constant. A significant interaction between social support and FI (β = 0.02, p = 0.017) indicated that greater social support was predicted to mitigate the negative impacts of FI on ART adherence. Addressing these modifiable barriers could improve ART adherence during this critical period.

Effectiveness of an Intervention for Improving Treatment Adherence, Service Utilization and Viral Load Among HIV-Positive Adult Alcohol Users

This study evaluates whether a group intervention that included cognitive remediation improved ART adherence, service utilization, and viral load among HIV-positive adults with a history of alcohol abuse. HIV-seropositive adults (n = 243), recruited from community-based organizations were randomized to the Holistic Health Recovery Program (HHRP-A) or a comparison condition. Both conditions included eight group sessions; outcomes (adherence, service utilization, and viral load) and processes (social support and stress) were measured. Data were collected at baseline, immediately post-intervention, 3 months, and 6 months follow-up. Participants were ≥ 18 and ≤ 60 ([Formula: see text] years old), 71% male, and 79.6% black. Participants randomized to HHRP-A were more likely to report adequate ART adherence and to report an undetectable viral load at 6 months post-intervention. Participants in the HHRP-A condition showed significantly greater improvement in social support than the comparison group. Providing comprehensive health promotion interventions that incorporate cognitive remediation strategies, could improve health outcomes for HIV-positive substance users.

Examining and adapting the information-motivation-behavioural skills model of medication adherence among community-dwelling older patients with multimorbidity: protocol for a cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Multimorbidity is highly prevalent among older patients and has been shown to be associated with poor health outcomes and lower quality of life. Adherence to medication treatments is essential in order to maximise the efficacy of treatments and improve health outcomes. However, nearly half of the older patients with multimorbidity fail to adhere to their medications, which can result in an increased risk of adverse health events, lower quality of life and higher healthcare cost. Only a few studies have explored the underlying mechanism and influencing factors of medication adherence among older patients with multimorbidity, which are inadequate to provide robust evidence for the development and evaluation of the medication adherence interventions. This study aims to examine and adapt the information-motivation-behavioural skills (IMB) model, a widely used social behaviour theory, to explain the medication adherence behaviour among community-dwelling older patients with multimorbidity.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A cross-sectional study will be conducted in community settings in China. Around 309 older patients with multimorbidity will be recruited to complete questionnaires on adherence knowledge, adherence motivation, adherence self-efficacy, medication adherence, medication treatment satisfaction, depressive symptoms, treatment burden, disease burden and basic demographic information. Structural equation modelling will be used to analyse and validate the relationships among variables in the IMB model.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been approved by the Survey and Behavioral Research Ethics Committee of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (reference number SBRE-18-675). The study results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented in academic conferences and workshops.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR1900024804.

Patterns of alcohol use and associated characteristics and HIV-related outcomes among a sample of African-American women living with HIV

BACKGROUND

Alcohol use is common among people living with HIV and negatively impacts care and outcomes. African-American women living with HIV are subject to vulnerabilities that may increase risk for alcohol use and associated HIV-related outcomes.

METHODS

We used baseline data from a randomized controlled trial of an HIV-related stigma-reduction intervention among African-American women living with HIV in Chicago and Birmingham (2013-2015). Patterns of alcohol use [any use, unhealthy alcohol use (UAU), heavy episodic drinking (HED)] were measured using the AUDIT-C. We assessed demographic, social, and clinical characteristics which may influence alcohol use and HIV-related outcomes which may be influenced by patterns of alcohol use in bivariate and multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

Among 220 African-American women living with HIV, 54 % reported any alcohol use, 24 % reported UAU, and 27 % reported HED. In bivariate analysis, greater depressive symptoms, lower religiosity, lower social support, marijuana, and crack/cocaine use were associated with patterns of alcohol use (p < 0.05). Marijuana and cocaine/crack use were associated with patterns of alcohol use in adjusted analysis (p < 0.05). In adjusted analysis, any alcohol use and HED were associated with lower likelihood of ART adherence (ARR = 0.72, 95 % CI: 0.53-0.97 and ARR = 0.65, 95 % CI: 0.44-0.96, respectively), and UAU was associated with lack of viral suppression (ARR = 0.78, 95 % CI: 0.63-0.96).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest any and unhealthy alcohol use is common and associated with poor HIV-related outcomes in this population. Regular alcohol screening and intervention should be offered, potentially targeted to subgroups (e.g., those with other substance use).

HIV Disclosure to Family Members and Medication Adherence: Role of Social Support and Self-efficacy

Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) is vital to people living with HIV (PLWH) by suppressing the virus and in turn preventing onward HIV transmission and reducing AIDS-related morbidity and mortality, the rates of optimal ART adherence continuously remain low. Disclosure of HIV status is considered to be a critical predictor of ART adherence. However, few studies have explored the mechanisms underlying the association between disclosure and medication adherence. The current study aims to examine the mediating role of social support and self-efficacy underlying the relationship between HIV disclosure to family members and ART adherence. PLWH in China provided data on HIV disclosure, ART adherence, perceived social support on medication adherence, adherence self-efficacy, and social-demographic information. The path analyses revealed that disclosure to family members had significant indirect effects on adherence via social support and self-efficacy. Our findings suggested that HIV disclosure might positively affect ART adherence through two psychosocial pathways: social support and self-efficacy. Future intervention to improve medication adherence among PLWH should consider targeting these two factors.

Syndemic factors associated with adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-positive adult heterosexual men

BACKGROUND

Suboptimal adherence to HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART) and concomitant lack of viral control can have severe consequences for health and onward transmission among persons living with HIV. Little is known about the barriers and facilitators of optimal ART adherence among heterosexual HIV-positive men.

METHODS

Structural equation modeling (SEM) was performed to test a theory-derived model of ART adherence using data from a cross-sectional sample of 317 HIV-positive self-identified heterosexual men residing in New York City. We assessed a conceptual model in which mental health (depression, anxiety) and substance use dependence mediated the effects of socio-structural factors (HIV-related stigma, social support) on ART adherence, and subsequently, undetectable viral load.

RESULTS

Structural equation modeling analyses indicated that men who reported higher levels of HIV-related stigma tended to experience higher levels of general anxiety, which in turn was associated with reduced probability of optimal ART adherence. Moreover, men who reported higher levels of social support tended to exhibit less dependence on illicit substance use, which in turn was associated with increased probability of optimal ART adherence. African-American men reported lower ART adherence compared to other racial/ethnic groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support the hypothesis that substance use dependence and mental health problems, particularly anxiety, may be primary drivers of suboptimal ART adherence among heterosexual men, and that socio-structural factors such as HIV-related stigma and social support are potential modifiable antecedents of these drivers.

DSM-5 substance use disorder symptom clusters and HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence

This study examines self-reported 30-day antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among 101 people living with HIV and substance use disorders (SUD) in New York City in terms of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual - 5th Edition (DSM-5) SUD symptom clusters: impaired control, social impairment, risky use and pharmacological criteria. Overall, 60.4% met DSM-5 criteria for stimulant, 55.5% for alcohol, 34.7% for cannabis and 25.7% for opioid SUD. Of the 76 participants with a current ART prescription, 75.3% reported at least 90% 30-day adherence. Participants with vs. without alcohol SUD were significantly less likely to report ART adherence (64.3% vs. 88.2%, p = .017). Endorsement of social impairment significantly differed among adherent vs. non-adherent participants with alcohol SUDs (74.1% vs. 100%, p = .038) and with opioid SUDs (94.1% vs. 50.0%, p = .040). Understanding specific SUD symptom clusters may assist providers and patients in developing strategies to improve ART adherence.

Factors associated with antiretroviral therapy adherence in adults: an integrative review of literature

AIDS is an advanced clinical manifestation of HIV infection. It generates severe immunodeficiency and associated infections that may lead to death. The antiretroviral therapy (ART) has reduced the morbimortality of HIV/AIDS, but its benefits depend on ART adherence. This integrative review followed the PICO method to identify factors associated with adult adherence to ART. Empirical papers published between January 2010 and December 2016 in the Medline, SciELO, Lilacs and PePSIC databases were included. We analyzed 125 papers regarding the characteristics of studies, adherence measures and associated factors. Results showed a wide variety in the definition of adherence and the use of measures for its monitoring, as well as several adherence-associated factors. These were categorized as follows: 1- Individual variables; 2- Treatment characteristics; 3- HIV/aids infection characteristics; 4- Relationship with the health services; 5- Social support. Health services should characterize the users' profiles, systematize adherence measures and regionally assess adherence-associated factors for the early detection of non-adherence to ART and implementation of effective intervention plans.

The Association of Trauma with the Physical, Behavioral, and Social Health of Women Living with HIV: Pathways to Guide Trauma-informed Health Care Interventions

BACKGROUND

Trauma is increasingly recognized as a near-universal experience among women living with HIV (WLHIV) and a key contributor to HIV acquisition, morbidity, and mortality.

METHODS

We present data from the baseline analysis of a planned intervention trial of the impact of trauma-informed health care on physical, behavioral, and social health outcomes of WLHIV in one clinic, with a particular focus on quality of life and viral suppression. Data were collected through interviewer-administered surveys and electronic health record data abstraction.

RESULTS

Among 104 WLHIV, 97.1% of participants reported having experienced lifetime trauma, and participants had experienced on average 4.2 out of 10 Adverse Childhood Experiences. WLHIV with more lifetime trauma were significantly more likely to report post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety symptoms; significantly more likely to report potentially harmful alcohol and drug use; and had a significantly poorer quality of life. In addition, women who had experienced more lifetime trauma were significantly less likely to report being on and adhering to HIV medications, although trauma was not significantly associated with having an undetectable HIV viral load.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that trauma is associated with much of the morbidity and mortality experienced by WLHIV. The results of this study support the implementation and study of trauma-informed approaches to health care for WLHIV.

Psychosocial Factors Associated with Problem Drinking Among Substance Users with Poorly Controlled HIV Infection

Aims

We aimed to identify psychosocial factors related to problem drinking among patients with poorly controlled human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

Short Summary

We aimed to identify psychosocial factors related to problem drinking among those with poorly controlled HIV infection. Increased levels of interpersonal conflict were associated with greater severity of alcohol problems. Poorer mental health, medical mistrust and less satisfaction with one's physician related to excessive drinking.

Methods

This secondary analysis used baseline data from a large multisite randomized controlled trial of substance users whose HIV infection was currently poorly controlled, from 11 urban hospitals across the USA. Participants were HIV-infected adult inpatients (n = 801; 67% male, 75% African American) with substance use histories. Participants self-reported on their drinking, perceived health, mental health, social relationships and patient-provider relationship. Structural equation models examined psychosocial factors associated with problem drinking, controlling for demographic covariates.

Results

Increased levels of interpersonal conflict were associated with greater severity of alcohol problems. Poorer mental health, medical mistrust and less satisfaction with one's physician were associated with excessive drinking.

Conclusions

Several psychosocial factors, including interpersonal conflict, poor mental health (i.e. anxiety, depression and somatization), medical mistrust and less satisfaction with one's provider, were associated with problem drinking among HIV-infected substance users with poorly controlled HIV infection. The co-occurrence of these concerns highlights the need for comprehensive services (including attention to problem drinking, social services, mental health and quality medical care) in this at-risk group.

Models of care for populations with chronic conditions and mental/behavioral health comorbidity

Recent decades have seen increased interest in the integration of mental and physical healthcare. Healthcare reform in the US has provided an opportunity for integration of evidence-based mental health programmes. Three quarters of patients with behavioural health disorders are seen in medical settings, where behavioural problems are largely unaddressed. The human and economic toll of unaddressed mental and behavioural health needs is enormous and often hidden from view, since the behavioural or mental health implications of medical conditions like heart disease and diabetes have only recently begun to be appreciated. This paper has three goals: (1) to review models of integrated services delivery, providing a framework for making sense of strategies for integration; (2) to consider some evidence for clinical outcomes when care is integrated; and (3) to highlight some factors that enhance or impede integration in practice. The review concludes with comments on where the field is going.

Psychosocial complications of HIV/AIDS-metabolic disorder comorbidities among patients in a rural area of southeastern United States

As people living with HIV experience longer life-expectancies resulting from antiretroviral therapy, comorbid conditions are increasing, particularly metabolic disorders. There is potential for psychosocial factors such as stigma experiences, depression, and alcohol use to complicate both HIV infection and metabolic disorders, including diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia. While the impact of these psychosocial factors on HIV infection alone are widely studied, their role in potentially complicating HIV co-morbid metabolic conditions has received little attention. This study examined the association between HIV-related stigma and depression, and the potential role of alcohol use as a mediating factor in a clinical sample of patients with comorbid HIV infection and metabolic conditions. Results demonstrated that HIV stigma is associated with depression and this relationship is in part accounted for by alcohol use. Our results indicate that interventions aiming to improve the health of people living with HIV and co-morbid metabolic disorders should prioritize addressing alcohol use as it is related to sources of stress, such as stigma, and depression.

Using the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST) to optimize an HIV care continuum intervention for vulnerable populations: a study protocol

BACKGROUND

More than half of persons living with HIV (PLWH) in the United States are insufficiently engaged in HIV primary care and not taking antiretroviral therapy (ART), mainly African Americans/Blacks and Hispanics. In the proposed project, a potent and innovative research methodology, the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST), will be employed to develop a highly efficacious, efficient, scalable, and cost-effective intervention to increase engagement along the HIV care continuum. Whereas randomized controlled trials are valuable for evaluating the efficacy of multi-component interventions as a package, they are not designed to evaluate which specific components contribute to efficacy. MOST, a pioneering, engineering-inspired framework, addresses this problem through highly efficient randomized experimentation to assess the performance of individual intervention components and their interactions. We propose to use MOST to engineer an intervention to increase engagement along the HIV care continuum for African American/Black and Hispanic PLWH not well engaged in care and not taking ART. Further, the intervention will be optimized for cost-effectiveness. A similar set of multi-level factors impede both HIV care and ART initiation for African American/Black and Hispanic PLWH, primary among them individual- (e.g., substance use, distrust, fear), social- (e.g., stigma), and structural-level barriers (e.g., difficulties accessing ancillary services). Guided by a multi-level social cognitive theory, and using the motivational interviewing approach, the study will evaluate five distinct culturally based intervention components (i.e., counseling sessions, pre-adherence preparation, support groups, peer mentorship, and patient navigation), each designed to address a specific barrier to HIV care and ART initiation. These components are well-grounded in the empirical literature and were found acceptable, feasible, and promising with respect to efficacy in a preliminary study.

METHODS/DESIGN

Study aims are: 1) using a highly efficient fractional factorial experimental design, identify which of five intervention components contribute meaningfully to improvement in HIV viral suppression, and secondary outcomes of ART adherence and engagement in HIV primary care; 2) identify mediators and moderators of intervention component efficacy; and 3) using a mathematical modeling approach, build the most cost-effective and efficient intervention package from the efficacious components. A heterogeneous sample of African American/Black and Hispanic PLWH (with respect to age, substance use, and sexual minority status) will be recruited with a proven hybrid sampling method using targeted sampling in community settings and peer recruitment (N = 512).

DISCUSSION

This is the first study to apply the MOST framework in the field of HIV prevention and treatment. This innovative study will produce a culturally based HIV care continuum intervention for the nation's most vulnerable PLWH, optimized for cost-effectiveness, and with exceptional levels of efficacy, efficiency, and scalability.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02801747 , Registered June 8, 2016.

Adherence-Specific Social Support Enhances Adherence to Calcium Supplementation Regimens among Pregnant Women

Background: WHO guidelines recommend integrating calcium supplementation into antenatal care (ANC) alongside iron and folic acid (IFA) to reduce maternal mortality. However, supplementation programs face multiple barriers, and strategies to improve adherence are needed. An adherence partner is someone whom pregnant women ask to support adherence at home.Objectives: This study 1) assessed adherence partner acceptability, feasibility, and associations with calcium and IFA supplement adherence and 2) examined relations between social support and adherence.Methods: This secondary analysis is from a trial integrating calcium supplementation into ANC in Kenya. ANC providers were trained on calcium and IFA supplementation and counseling, provided with behavior change materials, and given adequate supplement supplies. Pregnant women from 16 government health facilities were recruited (n = 1036); sociodemographic and adherence data were collected at baseline and at 4- to 6-wk follow-up visits. Adherence was measured with pill counts and self-reports. Culturally adapted scales measured social support in general and specific to adherence. Mixed-effects regression analyses were used to examine factors associated with adherence partners, social support, and adherence.Results: Most participants received information about adherence partners (91%) and had a partner at follow-up (89%). Participants with adherence partners reported higher adherence support (OR: 2.10; 95% CI: 1.32, 3.34). Mean ± SD adherence was high for calcium (88.3% ± 20.7%) and IFA (86.1% ± 20.9%). Adherence support was positively associated with calcium adherence at follow-up by using pill counts (OR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.1, 2.6) and self-report data (OR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.2, 2.9), but there was not a direct relation between adherence partners and adherence.Conclusions: Adherence support enhanced adherence to calcium supplements. The adherence partner strategy was highly acceptable and feasible but warrants further study. This research demonstrates the importance of adherence support and suggests that interventions to increase household-level support for antenatal micronutrient supplementation may be needed to implement the WHO guidelines. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02238704.

Psychosocial group interventions to improve psychological well-being in adults living with HIV

BACKGROUND

Being diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and labelled with a chronic, life-threatening, and often stigmatizing disease, can impact on a person's well-being. Psychosocial group interventions aim to improve life-functioning and coping as individuals adjust to the diagnosis.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the effectiveness of psychosocial group interventions for improving the psychological well-being of adults living with HIV/AIDS.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following electronic databases up to 14 March 2016: the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) published in the Cochrane Library (Issue 2, 2016), PubMed (MEDLINE) (1996 to 14 March 2016), Embase (1996 to 14 March 2016), and Clinical Trials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs that compared psychosocial group interventions with versus control (standard care or brief educational interventions), with at least three months follow-up post-intervention. We included trials that reported measures of depression, anxiety, stress, or coping using standardized scales.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened abstracts, applied the inclusion criteria, and extracted data. We compared continuous outcomes using mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), and pooled data using a random-effects model. When the included trials used different measurement scales, we pooled data using standardized mean difference (SMD) values. We reported trials that we could not include in the meta analysis narratively in the text. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 16 trials (19 articles) that enrolled 2520 adults living with HIV. All the interventions were multifaceted and included a mix of psychotherapy, relaxation, group support, and education. The included trials were conducted in the USA (12 trials), Canada (one trial), Switzerland (one trial), Uganda (one trial), and South Africa (one trial), and published between 1996 and 2016. Ten trials recruited men and women, four trials recruited homosexual men, and two trials recruited women only. Interventions were conducted with groups of four to 15 people, for 90 to 135 minutes, every week for up to 12 weeks. All interventions were conducted face-to-face except two, which were delivered by telephone. All were delivered by graduate or postgraduate trained health, psychology, or social care professionals except one that used a lay community health worker and two that used trained mindfulness practitioners.Group-based psychosocial interventions based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may have a small effect on measures of depression, and this effect may last for up to 15 months after participation in the group sessions (SMD -0.26, 95% CI -0.42 to -0.10; 1139 participants, 10 trials, low certainty evidence). Most trials used the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), which has a maximum score of 63, and the mean score in the intervention groups was around 1.4 points lower at the end of follow-up. This small benefit was consistent across five trials where participants had a mean depression score in the normal range at baseline, but trials where the mean score was in the depression range at baseline effects were less consistent. Fewer trials reported measures of anxiety, where there may be little or no effect (four trials, 471 participants, low certainty evidence), stress, where there may be little or no effect (five trials, 507 participants, low certainty evidence), and coping (five trials, 697 participants, low certainty evidence).Group-based interventions based on mindfulness have not demonstrated effects on measures of depression (SMD -0.23, 95% CI -0.49 to 0.03; 233 participants, 2 trials, very low certainty evidence), anxiety (SMD -0.16, 95% CI -0.47 to 0.15; 62 participants, 2 trials, very low certainty evidence), or stress (MD -2.02, 95% CI -4.23 to 0.19; 137 participants, 2 trials, very low certainty evidence). No mindfulness based interventions included in the studies had any valid measurements of coping.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Group-based psychosocial interventions may have a small effect on measures of depression, but the clinical importance of this is unclear. More high quality evidence is needed to assess whether group psychosocial intervention improve psychological well-being in HIV positive adults.

Contextualizing Psychosocial Determinants of Alcohol Use by Age Cohorts of Adults Living With HIV, Ages 50 and Older

We examined the influence of age on associations between affective states, social support, and alcohol use by age cohorts. We recruited 96 older Black adults living with HIV from the southeastern United States in 2013 and 2014. Participants completed questionnaires assessing demographics, psychological function, and substance use. Hierarchical regression analyses assessed the relationship between psychosocial factors and alcohol use in a 50- to 59-year-old group, and a 60-years-and-older age group. After controlling for covariates, trait anger, state anger, and life stress were positively associated with alcohol consumption in the younger group, while social support was negatively associated with alcohol consumption in the older group. Interventions should target negative affective states in 50- to 59-year-old adults with HIV, and preserve social support for adults with HIV as they age, as such interventions will likely have an impact on these individuals' alcohol consumption and longstanding quality of life.

Retaining HIV Patients in Care: The Role of Initial Patient Care Experiences

Cross-sectional studies have shown an association between better patient experiences and health outcomes. However, the direction of causality remains unclear. Our prospective study seeks to determine whether better initial patient experiences predict subsequent retention in HIV care. We enrolled patients new to an HIV clinic in Houston, Texas, from August 26, 2013 to November 18, 2013. The patients' overall experience with the HIV provider was based on six items; overall experience with the HIV clinic was based on five items. We measured subsequent retention over the first 6 months and entire first year of HIV care. Analyses included 140 patients. Sixty-one percent were non-Hispanic black, 41 % were diagnosed with HIV within the last 3 months, and 36 % had a CD4 cell count <200. Thirty three percent were totally satisfied with their initial HIV provider experience and 32 % were totally satisfied with their initial HIV clinic experience. Retention was 68 % over the first 6 months and 51 % over the first year. Satisfaction with the HIV provider at the initial visit significantly predicted 6-month retention in care (aOR = 3.56, p = 0.006). Similar results were found for satisfaction with the HIV clinic (aOR = 4.67, p = 0.002). Neither of the patient experience measures at the initial visit predicted 12-month retention. Patients with better initial care experiences have significantly greater retention in HIV care. The effect of better initial care experiences was limited in duration. Consistently improving patient care experiences, not only at baseline but also on subsequent visits, may be a way to increase retention in HIV care.

Proof of Concept of a Mobile Health Short Message Service Text Message Intervention That Promotes Adherence to Oral Anticancer Agent Medications: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

This multisite, randomized controlled trial assigned 75 adult cancer patients prescribed an oral anticancer agent to either an experimental group that received daily text messages for adherence for 21 days plus usual care or a control group that received usual care.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Measures were administered at baseline, weekly (Weeks 1-8), and at exit (Week 9). A satisfaction survey was conducted following the intervention. Acceptability, feasibility, and satisfaction were examined. Primary outcomes were adherence and symptoms. Secondary outcomes were depressive symptoms, self-efficacy, cognition, physical function, and social support. Mixed or general linear models were used for the analyses comparing trial groups. Effect sizes (ES) were estimated to gauge clinical significance.

RESULTS

Regarding acceptability, 57.2% (83 of 145) of eligible patients consented, 88% (n = 37 of 42) receiving text messages read them most or all of the time, and 90% (n = 38) were satisfied. The differences between experimental and control groups' ES were 0.29 for adherence, 0.21 for symptom severity, and 0.21 for symptom interference, and differences were not statistically significant. Furthermore, perceived social support was higher (p = 0.04; ES = 0.54) in the experimental group.

CONCLUSIONS

Proof of concept and preliminary efficacy of a mobile health intervention using text messages to promote adherence for patients prescribed oral anticancer agents were demonstrated. Patients accepted and had high satisfaction with the intervention, and adherence improved after the intervention. Text messages show promise. Additional research is needed prior to use in practice.

Adult Cancer Patient Recruitment and Enrollment into Cell Phone Text Message Trials

INTRODUCTION

Text messaging (TMs) on cell phones is emerging as an effective means of delivering behavioral interventions. However, little is known about TM use in adult cancer patients. The present study aimed to extend knowledge on acceptability of a TM intervention in adult cancer patients; examine factors of those screened and enrolled; and compare recruitment at a large national specialty pharmacy versus community-based cancer clinics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Screening, enrollment, and baseline data collected in two randomized controlled trials examining the efficacy of TMs on medication adherence or symptom severity in adults prescribed oral anticancer agents were linked. Chi-square, Fisher's exact, t-tests, and generalized linear modeling were used to examine sociodemographics, cancer type and stage, depressive symptoms, self-efficacy, social support, and symptoms.

RESULTS

The cancer clinics screened 293 patients, 43% were eligible, and 56% consented. The specialty pharmacy screened 169 patients, 72% were eligible, and 74% consented. Mean age was 58 years and did not differ by recruitment setting. Later stage disease (p = 0.01) and higher number of symptoms (p < 0.01), and symptom severity (p = 0.02) and interference (p = 0.01) were observed among patients recruited at the specialty pharmacy. No group differences were found for depression, physical function, cognition, self-efficacy, or social support.

DISCUSSION

Adult cancer patients were likely to participate in a TM intervention trial. Recruiting through the specialty pharmacy reached a population with higher cell phone ownership and TM usage; with greater interest in a TM intervention compared to the cancer clinics.

Facilitators of HIV Medical Care Engagement Among Former Prisoners

Linkage to and retention in medical care is a concern for HIV-positive individuals leaving custody settings in the United States. The minimal existing research points to low rates of entry into care in the months following release and lapsed viral control among releasees who are subsequently reincarcerated. We conducted seven small focus group discussions with 27 HIVpositive individuals who were recently incarcerated in a California State prison to understand those factors that facilitated linkage to and retention in HIV care following their release. We used a consensual approach to code and analyze the focus group transcripts. Four main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) interpersonal relationships, (2) professional relationships, (3) coping strategies and resources, and (4) individual attitudes. Improving HIV-related outcomes among individuals after their release from prison requires strengthening supportive relationships, fostering the appropriate attitudes and skills, and ensuring access to resources that stabilize daily living and facilitate the process of accessing care.

Adherence to Early Antiretroviral Therapy: Results From HPTN 052, a Phase III, Multinational Randomized Trial of ART to Prevent HIV-1 Sexual Transmission in Serodiscordant Couples

BACKGROUND

Combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-1-infected individuals prevents sexual transmission if viral load is suppressed.

METHODS

Participants were HIV-1-infected partners randomized to early ART (CD4 350-550) in HPTN052 (n = 886, median follow-up = 2.1 years), a clinical trial of early ART to prevent sexual transmission of HIV-1 in serodiscordant couples at 13 sites in 9 countries. Adherence was assessed through pill count (dichotomized at <95%) and through self-report items. Predictors of adherence were mental health and general health perceptions, substance use, binge drinking, social support, sexual behaviors, and demographics. Viral suppression was defined as HIV plasma viral load <400 copies per milliliter. Adherence counseling and couples' counseling about safer sex were provided. Logistic and linear regression models using generalized estimating equation for repeated measurements were used.

FINDINGS

Through pill count, 82% of participants were adherent at 1 month and 83.3% at 1 year. Mental health was the only psychosocial variable associated with adherence [pill count, odds ratios (OR) = 1.05, 95% confidence intervals (CIs): 1.00 to 1.11; self-report parameter estimate, OR = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.04], although regional differences emerged. Pill count (OR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.30) and self-report (OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.14 to 1.77) adherence were associated with viral suppression.

INTERPRETATION

Although adherence was high among individuals in stable relationships taking ART for prevention, mental health and adherence covaried. Assessing and intervening on mental health in the context of promoting adherence to ART as prevention should be explored. Adherence and couples' counseling, feedback about viral suppression, and/or altruism may also help explain the magnitude of adherence observed.

A randomized controlled trial of the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a texting intervention on medication adherence in adults prescribed oral anti-cancer agents: study protocol

AIM

The aim of this study was to report a study protocol that examines feasibility, preliminary efficacy and satisfaction of a text message intervention on the outcome of medication adherence in adult patients prescribed oral anti-cancer agents.

BACKGROUND

Administration of oral anti-cancer agents occurs in the home setting, requiring patients to self-manage the regimen as prescribed. However, many barriers to medication adherence exist: regimens are often complex, with cycling of two or more medications; side effects of treatment; most cancer patients are older with comorbid conditions and competing demands; and cognitive decline and forgetfulness may occur. Research indicates patients miss nearly one-third of the prescribed oral anti-cancer agent dosages. Text message interventions have been shown to improve medication adherence in chronic conditions other than cancer. However, a majority of those patients were less than 50 years of age and most cancer patients are diagnosed later in life.

DESIGN

A two-group randomized controlled trial with repeated measures.

METHODS

Seventy-five adult patients newly prescribed an oral anti-cancer agent will be recruited (project funded in April 2013) from community cancer centres and a specialty pharmacy. Participants will be randomized to either a control group (n = 25; usual care) or an intervention group (n = 50; usual care plus text messages timed to medication regimen). Outcome measures include: medication adherence, feasibility and satisfaction with the intervention. Data will be collected over 8 weeks: baseline, weekly and exit.

DISCUSSION

Standardized text message intervention protocol and detailed study procedures have been developed in this study to improve medication adherence.

Determinants of non-adherence to antiretroviral therapy in adult hospitalized patients, Northwest Ethiopia

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the rate of antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and to identify any determinants among adult patients.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 351 ART patients in the ART clinic of the University of Gondar referral hospital. Data were collected by a pretested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire from May to June 2014. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine factors significantly associated with adherence.

RESULTS

Of 351 study subjects, women were more predominant than men (64.4% versus 35.6%). Three hundred and forty (96.9%) patients agreed and strongly agreed that the use of ART is essential in their life, and approximately 327 (93.2%) disclosed their sero-status to family. Seventy-nine (22.5%) participants were active substance users. The level of adherence was 284 (80.9%). Three hundred forty-one (97.2%) respondents had good or fair adherence. Among the reasons for missing doses were forgetfulness (29 [43.3%]), missing appointments (14 [20.9%]), running out of medicine (9 [13.4%]), depression, anger, or hopelessness (4 [6.0%]), side effects of the medicine used (2 [3.0%]), and nonbelief in the ART (2 [3.0%]). The variables found significantly associated with non-adherence were age (P-value 0.017), employment (P-value 0.02), HIV disclosure (P-value 0.04), and comfortability to take ART in the presence of others (P-value 0.02).

CONCLUSION

From this study, it was determined that forgetfulness (43.3%) was the most common reason for missing doses. Also, employment and acceptance in using ART in the presence of others are significant issues observed for non-adherence. Hence, the ART counselor needs to place more emphasis on the provision and use of memory aids.

Multilevel challenges to engagement in HIV care after prison release: a theory-informed qualitative study comparing prisoners' perspectives before and after community reentry

Background

Although prison provides the opportunity for HIV diagnosis and access to in-prison care, following release, many HIV-infected inmates experience clinical setbacks, including nonadherence to antiretrovirals, elevations in viral load, and HIV disease progression. HIV-infected former inmates face numerous barriers to successful community reentry and to accessing healthcare. However, little is known about the outcome expectations of HIV-infected inmates for release, how their post-release lives align with pre-release expectations, and how these processes influence engagement in HIV care following release from prison.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews (24 pre- and 13 post-release) with HIV-infected inmates enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of a case management intervention to enhance post-release linkage to care. Two researchers independently coded data using a common codebook. Intercoder reliability was strong (kappa = 0.86). We analyzed data using Grounded Theory methodology and Applied Thematic Analysis. We collected and compared baseline sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics of all cohort participants who did and did not participate in the qualitative interviews using Fisher’s Exact Tests for categorical measures and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests for continuous measures.

Results

Most participants were heterosexual, middle-aged, single, African American men and women with histories of substance use. Substudy participants were more likely to anticipate living with family/friends and needing income assistance post-release. Most were taking antiretrovirals prior to release and anticipated needing help securing health benefits and medications post-release. Before release, most participants felt confident they would be able to manage their HIV. However, upon release, many experienced intermittent or prolonged periods of antiretroviral nonadherence, largely due to substance use relapse or delays in care initiation. Substance use was precipitated by stressful life experiences, including stigma, and contact with drug-using social networks. As informed by the Social Cognitive Theory and HIV Stigma Framework, findings illustrate the reciprocal relationships among substance use, experiences of stigma, pre- and post-release environments, and skills needed to engage in HIV care.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the need for comprehensive evidence-based interventions to prepare inmates to transition from incarceration to freedom, particularly those that strengthen linkage to HIV care and focus on realities of reentry, including stigma, meeting basic needs, preventing substance abuse, and identifying community resources.

Stigma, social support, and treatment adherence among HIV-positive patients in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Our study assessed the influence of HIV-related stigma on treatment adherence among people living with HIV in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and whether social support had a moderating effect on this relationship. We recruited 128 patients living with HIV from Sansai Hospital, a community hospital in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and collected data through structured interviews. All forms of HIV-related stigma considered in this study (personalized experience, disclosure, negative self-image, and public attitudes) were negatively correlated with adherence to anti-retroviral regimens. Multiple linear regression indicated that total HIV-related stigma was more predictive of treatment adherence than any individual stigma type, after adjusting for socio-demographic and health characteristics. Tests of interaction showed that social support did not appear to moderate the association between HIV stigma and treatment adherence. Our findings suggest that community and government efforts to improve public perceptions about people living with HIV might promote treatment adherence behaviors among HIV-positive patients.

Project VOGUE: A partnership for increasing HIV knowledge and HIV vaccine trial awareness among House Ball leaders in Western New York

Men who sleep with men (MSM) and transgender individuals of color, the largest demographic in the House Ball community (HBC) are amongst the group at highest risk for HIV infection in the United States. The HBC have limited access to culturally appropriate HIV education. This study aimed to develop a partnership with HBC leaders to uncover strategies for increasing HIV prevention knowledge, including participation in HIV vaccine trials. To this end a research institution-community-HBC partnership was established. In-depth qualitative and quantitative data were collected from the 14 HBC leaders in western New York, revealing that knowledge of HIV and related vaccine trials was limited. Barriers to increasing HIV knowledge included fear of peer judgment, having inaccurate information about HIV, and lack of education. Among the HBC, community partnerships will further aid in the development of future HIV prevention programs and increase individuals' willingness to participate in future HIV vaccine trials.

Health status, sexual and drug risk, and psychosocial factors relevant to postrelease planning for HIV+ prisoners

The prevalence of HIV infection among male prison inmates is significantly higher than in the U.S. population. Adequate planning to ensure continued medication adherence and continuity of care after release is important for this population. This study describes the prerelease characteristics of 162 incarcerated HIV-positive men (40 from jails and 122 from prisons). The results include a demographic description of the sample and the participants' sexual risk behaviors, substance use, health status and HIV medication adherence, health care utilization, mental health, and family and social support. The results highlight a potentially high level of need for services and low levels of support and social connectedness. Postrelease planning should include support for improving HIV medication adherence as well as reducing both sexual and injection drug-related transmission risk for these individuals.

Health impact of incarceration on HIV-positive African American males: a qualitative exploration

Previous research suggests that incarceration can have a negative effect on health. These health effects have an especially profound impact on HIV-positive individuals. As such, the current study investigates how incarceration affects the health of 12 African American HIV-positive formerly incarcerated males recruited via an AIDS Service Organization. Individuals were enrolled via purposive sampling and engaged in a series of in-depth interviews over a yearlong period (n=46). Participants ranged in age from 33 to 61 years. Most had finished high school, were not employed at time of first and last interview, and most were primarily residing at a homeless shelter. The time incarcerated ranged among participants from 3 months to 3 years. Findings suggest that health is impacted via limited and delayed access to medication, stigma, and poor quality of medical care while incarcerated. Health continues to worsen after release, largely due to incarceration's impact on individuals' social context. Macro-level policy limits opportunity to fulfill basic needs such as housing and hinders one's ability to be gainfully employed. Moreover, stigma, loss of social support, and a delay in accessing HIV-related services deleteriously impacts individuals' mental and physical health status. Implications for practice, policy and future research are also discussed.

Three types of self-efficacy associated with medication adherence in patients with co-occurring HIV and substance use disorders, but only when mood disorders are present

Background

Adherence with medication regimens for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a life-saving behavior for people with HIV infection, yet adherence is challenging for many individuals with co-occurring substance use and/or mood disorders. Medication-taking self-efficacy, which is the confidence that one can take one’s medication as prescribed, is associated with better adherence with HIV medication. However, little is known about the influence that other kinds of self-efficacy have on adherence with HIV medication, especially among HIV-infected individuals with co-occurring substance use and/or mood disorders. We sought to examine the relationship between adherence with HIV medication among substance users and three specific kinds of self-efficacy, ie, one’s confidence that one can communicate with medical providers, get support, and manage one’s mood. We further sought to examine whether symptoms of depression and anxiety moderate these relationships.

Methods

Patients were recruited from three HIV clinics in the southeastern United States as part of an integrated study of treatment for HIV and substance use.

Results

We interviewed 154 patients with HIV and substance use who reported taking HIV medications. Based on symptoms of depression and anxiety using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety, 63% had probable depression and/or anxiety. Higher levels of self-efficacy in provider communication (β = 3.86, P < 0.01), getting needed support (β = 2.82, P < 0.01), and mood management (β = 2.29, P < 0.05) were related to better self-reported adherence with HIV medication among study participants with probable depression and/or anxiety. The three kinds of self-efficacy were not associated with medication adherence among participants with HIV and substance use only.

Conclusion

In the search for mutable factors to improve medication adherence among individuals triply diagnosed with HIV, substance use, and mood disorders, these findings support previous research indicating the benefit of enhancing self-efficacy, and further point to three specific kinds of self-efficacy that may benefit medication adherence, ie, provider communication, getting support, and mood management.

Differential predictors of medication adherence in HIV: findings from a sample of African American and Caucasian HIV-positive drug-using adults

Modest or even occasional nonadherence to combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) can result in adverse clinical outcomes. African Americans demonstrate lower rates of adherence than Caucasians or Latinos. Identifying factors that influence medication adherence among African Americans is a critical step toward reducing HIV/AIDS disease progression and mortality. In a sample of 181 African American (n=144) and Caucasian (n=37) HIV-positive drug-using individuals [age (M=42.31; SD=6.6) education (M=13.41; SD=2.1)], we examined the influence of baseline drug use, literacy, neurocognition, depression, treatment-specific social support, and patient satisfaction with health care provider on medication adherence averaged over the course of 6 months (study dates 2002-2006). Our findings suggest differential baseline predictors of medication adherence for African Americans and Caucasians, such that patient satisfaction with provider was the strongest predictor of follow-up medication adherence for African Americans whereas for Caucasians depressive symptoms and treatment-specific social support were predictive of medication adherence (after controlling for duration of drug use).

Food insecurity, depression and the modifying role of social support among people living with HIV/AIDS in rural Uganda

Depression is common among people living with HIV/AIDS and contributes to a wide range of worsened HIV-related outcomes, including AIDS-related mortality. Targeting modifiable causes of depression, either through primary or secondary prevention, may reduce suffering as well as improve HIV-related outcomes. Food insecurity is a pervasive source of uncertainty for those living in resource-limited settings, and cross-sectional studies have increasingly recognized it as a critical determinant of poor mental health. Using cohort data from 456 men and women living with HIV/AIDS initiating HIV antiretroviral therapy in rural Uganda, we sought to (a) estimate the association between food insecurity and depression symptom severity, (b) assess the extent to which social support may serve as a buffer against the adverse effects of food insecurity, and (c) determine whether the buffering effects are specific to certain types of social support. Quarterly data were collected by structured interviews and blood draws. The primary outcome was depression symptom severity, measured by a modified Hopkins Symptom Checklist for Depression. The primary explanatory variables were food insecurity, measured with the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale, and social support, measured with a modified version of the Functional Social Support Questionnaire. We found that food insecurity was associated with depression symptom severity among women but not men, and that social support buffered the impacts of food insecurity on depression. We also found that instrumental support had a greater buffering influence than emotional social support. Interventions aimed at improving food security and strengthening instrumental social support may have synergistic beneficial effects on both mental health and HIV outcomes among PLWHA in resource-limited settings.

Alcohol Consumption, Progression of Disease and Other Comorbidities, and Responses to Antiretroviral Medication in People Living with HIV

The present paper describes the possible connection between alcohol consumption and adherence to medicine used to treat human deficiency viral (HIV) infection. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has a positive influence on longevity in patients with HIV, substantially reducing morbidity and mortality, including resource-poor settings such as South Africa. However, in a systematic comparison of HAART outcomes between low-income and high-income countries in the treatment of HIV-patients, mortality was higher in resource-poor settings. Specifically, in South Africa, patients often suffer from concomitant tuberculosis and other infections that may contribute to these results. Alcohol influences the use of medicine for opportunistic infections (e.g., pneumonia, tuberculosis), or coinfections HIV-hepatitis viruses-B (HBV) and C (HCV), cytomegalovirus, or herpes simplex virus. Furthermore, alcohol use may negatively impact on medication adherence contributing to HIV progression. The materials used provide a data-supported approach. They are based on analysis of published (2006–2011) world literature and the experience of the authors in the specified topic. Intended for use by health care professionals, these recommendations suggest approaches to the therapeutic and preventive aspects of care. Our intention was to fully characterize the quality of evidence supporting recommendations, which are reflecting benefit versus risk, and assessing strength or certainty.

Management of HCV and HIV infections among people who inject drugs

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Despite a high burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV infection among IDUs and the advent of effective therapies, assessment and treatment remain limited. The current review focuses on the management of HCV and HIV among IDUs, focusing particularly on recent strategies to enhance assessment, uptake and response to HCV and HIV treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

There are compelling data demonstrating that with the appropriate programs, treatment for HIV and HCV among IDUs is successful. However, assessment and treatment for HCV and HIV lags far behind the numbers of IDUs who could benefit from therapy, related to systems, provider and patient-related barriers to care. Strategies for enhancing assessment and treatment for HCV and HIV have been developed, including novel models integrating HCV/HIV care within existing community-based and drug and alcohol clinics, innovative methods for education delivery (including peer-support models) and directly observed therapy.

SUMMARY

As we move forward, research must move beyond demonstrating that HCV and HIV infections can be successfully treated among IDUs. There is clear evidence that this is both feasible and effective. Novel strategies to enhance assessment, uptake and response to treatment should be evaluated among IDUs to elucidate mechanisms to enhance care for this underserved population.