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Yigit I, Budhwani H, Rainer CB, Claude K, Muessig KE, Hightow-Weidman LB. Associations Between PrEP Stigma, PrEP Confidence, and PrEP Adherence: Conditional Indirect Effects of Anticipated HIV Stigma. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 97:99-106. [PMID: 39250643 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has linked stigma surrounding preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to poor HIV prevention outcomes, including PrEP adherence. However, there remains a limited understanding of the mechanisms through which PrEP stigma affects PrEP adherence, specifically among sexual and gender minority (SGM) youth. In this study, we aimed to investigate the indirect effect of PrEP stigma on PrEP adherence through PrEP confidence and the moderating role of anticipated HIV stigma. METHODS Participants included 235 SGM youth, assigned male sex at birth, aged 16-24, and self-reported HIV-negative, with an active PrEP prescription from the Prepared, Protected, emPowered randomized controlled trial. Participants were recruited from 9 clinics in the United States between 2019 and 2021. Using baseline data, we tested cross-sectional indirect and conditional indirect effects using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Process with confidence intervals and 2000 resamples. RESULTS We found significant indirect effects, suggesting that PrEP stigma was negatively associated with PrEP confidence, which in turn resulted in both monthly and weekly optimal PrEP adherence (Indirect effects: B = -0.11, Standard Error [SE] = 0.05, CI: [-0.244 to -0.032]; B = -0.09, SE = 0.04, CI: [-0.191 to -0.014], respectively). Anticipated HIV stigma moderated these indirect effects (B = -0.11, SE = 0.08, CI: [-0.315 to -0.001]; B = -0.09, SE = 0.06, CI: [-0.245 to -0.001], respectively), suggesting that the conditional indirect effects were significant at high but not low levels of anticipated HIV stigma. CONCLUSION Results suggest that SGM youth who are on PrEP anticipating HIV stigma experience a compounding effect of PrEP stigma on PrEP confidence, consequently leading to suboptimal adherence. Interventions addressing the intersectionality of PrEP and HIV stigmas and enhancing confidence could improve PrEP adherence, particularly among SGM youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Yigit
- College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL; and
| | - Henna Budhwani
- College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL; and
- Institute on Digital Health and Innovation, Florida State University (FSU), Tallahassee, FL
| | - Crissi B Rainer
- College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL; and
- Institute on Digital Health and Innovation, Florida State University (FSU), Tallahassee, FL
| | - Kristina Claude
- College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL; and
- Institute on Digital Health and Innovation, Florida State University (FSU), Tallahassee, FL
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL; and
- Institute on Digital Health and Innovation, Florida State University (FSU), Tallahassee, FL
| | - Lisa B Hightow-Weidman
- College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL; and
- Institute on Digital Health and Innovation, Florida State University (FSU), Tallahassee, FL
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Stannah J, Flores Anato JL, Pickles M, Larmarange J, Mitchell KM, Artenie A, Dumchev K, Niangoran S, Platt L, Terris-Prestholt F, Singh A, Stone J, Vickerman P, Phillips A, Johnson L, Maheu-Giroux M, Boily MC. From conceptualising to modelling structural determinants and interventions in HIV transmission dynamics models: a scoping review and methodological framework for evidence-based analyses. BMC Med 2024; 22:404. [PMID: 39300441 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03580-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Including structural determinants (e.g. criminalisation, stigma, inequitable gender norms) in dynamic HIV transmission models is important to help quantify their population-level impacts and guide implementation of effective interventions that reduce the burden of HIV and inequalities thereof. However, evidence-based modelling of structural determinants is challenging partly due to a limited understanding of their causal pathways and few empirical estimates of their effects on HIV acquisition and transmission. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of dynamic HIV transmission modelling studies that evaluated the impacts of structural determinants, published up to August 28, 2023, using Ovid Embase and Medline online databases. We appraised studies on how models represented exposure to structural determinants and causal pathways. Building on this, we developed a new methodological framework and recommendations to support the incorporation of structural determinants in transmission dynamics models and their analyses. We discuss the data and analyses that could strengthen the evidence used to inform these models. RESULTS We identified 17 HIV modelling studies that represented structural determinants and/or interventions, including incarceration of people who inject drugs (number of studies [n] = 5), violence against women (n = 3), HIV stigma (n = 1), and housing instability (n = 1), among others (n = 7). Most studies (n = 10) modelled exposures dynamically. Almost half (8/17 studies) represented multiple exposure histories (e.g. current, recent, non-recent exposure). Structural determinants were often assumed to influence HIV indirectly by influencing mediators such as contact patterns, condom use, and antiretroviral therapy use. However, causal pathways' assumptions were sometimes simple, with few mediators explicitly represented in the model, and largely based on cross-sectional associations. Although most studies calibrated models using HIV epidemiological data, less than half (7/17) also fitted or cross-validated to data on the prevalence, frequency, or effects of exposure to structural determinants. CONCLUSIONS Mathematical models can play a crucial role in elucidating the population-level impacts of structural determinants and interventions on HIV. We recommend the next generation of models reflect exposure to structural determinants dynamically and mechanistically, and reproduce the key causal pathways, based on longitudinal evidence of links between structural determinants, mediators, and HIV. This would improve the validity and usefulness of predictions of the impacts of structural determinants and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Stannah
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Jorge Luis Flores Anato
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Michael Pickles
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- HPTN Modelling Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Joseph Larmarange
- Centre Population et Développement, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Kate M Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Nursing and Community Health, Glasgow Caledonian University, London, UK
| | - Adelina Artenie
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Serge Niangoran
- Programme PAC-CI, CHU de Treichville, Site ANRS, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Lucy Platt
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK
| | | | - Aditya Singh
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Delhi, India
| | - Jack Stone
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew Phillips
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Leigh Johnson
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mathieu Maheu-Giroux
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Boily
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- HPTN Modelling Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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Jain R, Wong CS, Tan RKJ. Fear really comes from the unknowns: exploring the impact of HIV stigma and discrimination on quality of life for people living with HIV in Singapore through the minority stress model. Sex Health 2024; 21:SH23204. [PMID: 39250598 DOI: 10.1071/sh23204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Background Structural stigma and institutionalised discrimination towards people living with HIV remain pervasive in many settings. However, qualitative explorations of experiences of stigma, health and social service engagement, and quality of life among people living with HIV in Singapore remain under-researched. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 73 participants in Singapore. These included 56 people living with HIV (30 men who have sex with men, 23 heterosexual men, and 3 women) and 17 stakeholders including healthcare professionals and other allied workers. Interviews focused on participant perspectives or experiences of HIV diagnosis, navigating healthcare, attitudes towards HIV, and impact of HIV on relationships. Data were analysed through inductive thematic analysis. Results Our findings were framed within a minority stress model, highlighting the distal and proximal stressors relating to living with HIV. With regard to distal stressors, participants highlighted that they had experienced or were aware of institutionalised discrimination towards people living with HIV across various aspects of their lives. These included experiences - overt and covert - of discrimination in education, workplace, and healthcare settings. With regard to proximal stressors, participants highlighted the role of anticipated stigma and the stress of concealment. This included participants' fear of potential legal and/or social repercussions resulting from the disclosure of their HIV status, actions that they may not be able to anticipate and articulate. Although employers may not overtly discriminate, the fear of such anticipated discrimination influenced decisions to conceal HIV status in job applications and workplaces. This restricted agency for the people living with HIV in our study by affecting their regular medical follow-ups, socialising behaviours, and overall quality of life. Consequently, many participants felt that concealment of their status, and forgoing potential educational, employment, and even health opportunities, were the only ways of protecting themselves from such forms of stigma and discrimination. Conclusions This study found that anticipated stigma and discrimination diminished the quality of life of people living with HIV in Singapore. Implementing an anti-discrimination framework could address the unpredictability and alleviate the manifold unknowns of anticipated stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Jain
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chen Seong Wong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore; and National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore, Singapore; and Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rayner Kay Jin Tan
- National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore, Singapore; and Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
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4
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Forney DJ, Sheehan DM, Dale SK, Li T, De La Rosa M, Spencer EC, Sanchez M. The Impact of HIV-Related Stigma on Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Retention in HIV Care Among Adults Living with HIV in Florida. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:2498-2508. [PMID: 37495905 PMCID: PMC10811278 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01715-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our study examines the effects of distinct HIV stigma subtypes on retention in care and racial-ethnic differences among persons with HIV (PWH). METHODS Using Florida Medical Monitoring Project 2015-2017 data, we analyzed patients' clinical and behavioral characteristics. We analyzed 89,889 PWH in Florida (50.0% non-Hispanic Blacks, 20.8% Hispanics, 29.2% non-Hispanic whites). HIV stigma subtypes, negative self-image, anticipated stigma, personalized stigma, and retention in care were examined with logistic regressions. RESULTS People with high negative self-image and anticipated stigma were less likely to be retained (CI: 0.84-0.92; 0.47-0.53). The association between HIV-related stigma subtypes and retention in care differed between Black, White, and Hispanic participants. Negative self-image was associated with higher retention rates among Hispanics (CI: 5.64-9.26) and Whites (CI: 1.04-1.27), while low retention rates among Blacks (0.617-0.686). The likelihood of staying in care was lower across all racial-ethnic groups when the anticipated stigma was high or moderate. In contrast, personalized stigma increased retention across all racial-ethnic groups. CONCLUSION Results showed that distinct types of HIV stigma differentially impact retention, and these associations differ by race and ethnicity. Future interventions should address the effect HIV stigma subtypes have on racially minoritized PWH retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derrick J Forney
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, USA.
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA.
- Center for HIV Research and Mental Health (CHARM), University of Miami, Coral Gables, USA.
| | - Diana M Sheehan
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Miami, USA
| | - Sannisha K Dale
- Center for HIV Research and Mental Health (CHARM), University of Miami, Coral Gables, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Miami, USA
| | - Tan Li
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | - Mario De La Rosa
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | | | - Mariana Sanchez
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, USA
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA
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Ojeda VD, Jaeger MB, Hiller-Venegas S, Parker T, Lyles M, Castillo S, Vega G, Moreno M, Schuler B, Groneman A, Berliant E, Romero N, Edwards TM, Jimenez C, Lister Z, Barksdale J, Bazzi A, Gaines T, Gilmer T. Lifetime HIV testing among three samples of adults with histories of incarceration in Southern California. AIDS Care 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38958153 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2372724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACTJustice-impacted persons may inconsistently access HIV testing. This cross-sectional secondary analysis investigates lifetime HIV testing prevalence among adults with prior histories of incarceration in Southern California, United States, participating in health-focused programming (n = 3 studies). Self-reported demographic and lifetime HIV testing data were collected between 2017-2023; descriptive analyses were conducted. Across the three samples, at least 74% of participants were male; Latino and African American individuals accounted for nearly two-thirds of participants. Lifetime HIV testing ranged from 72.8% to 84.2%. Males were significantly more likely than females to report never being tested in two samples and accounted for >95% of those never tested. No statistically significant differences in testing were observed by race/ethnicity. Single young adults (ages 18-26) were less likely than their partnered peers to report testing. HIV testing is critical for ensuring that individuals access prevention and treatment. HIV testing among justice-impacted adults in this study was higher than in the general population, potentially due to opt-out testing in correctional settings. Nevertheless, these findings underscore the importance of implementing targeted interventions to reduce structural (e.g., health insurance, access to self-testing kits) and social barriers (e.g., HIV stigma) to increase HIV testing among justice-impacted males and single young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria D Ojeda
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Melissa B Jaeger
- Global Health Program, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sarah Hiller-Venegas
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tamara Parker
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Maurice Lyles
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Silvia Castillo
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Gustavo Vega
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Melissa Moreno
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Briana Schuler
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Arthur Groneman
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Emily Berliant
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Natalie Romero
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Todd M Edwards
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Cielo Jimenez
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Zephon Lister
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jerrica Barksdale
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Angela Bazzi
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tommi Gaines
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Todd Gilmer
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
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6
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Workneh BS, Zegeye AF, Tamir TT, Ali MS, Ayenew T, Mekonen EG. Individual and community level factors associated with discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS among women of reproductive age in three sub-Saharan African countries: evidence from the most recent demographic and health survey (2021/22). BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1503. [PMID: 38840148 PMCID: PMC11151550 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19022-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV-related stigma and discrimination significantly affects health, and well-being, willingness to be tested for HIV, initiation and adherence to antiretroviral therapy, and quality of life. However, the findings of the prior studies revealed that the prevalence of discrimination against people living with HIV is high. Thus, we aimed to assess the magnitude of discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS and associated factors in three sub-Saharan African countries. METHODS The appended and most recent Demographic and Health Survey dataset of three sub-Saharan African countries from 2021 to 2022 was used for data analysis. A total of 56,690 women aged 15-49 years were included in this study as a weighted sample. The determinants of discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS were determined using a multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model. Significant factors associated with discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS in the multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression model were declared significant at p-values < 0.05. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and confidence interval (CI) were used to interpret the results. RESULT The overall prevalence of discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS was 28.19% (95% CI: 27.74%, 28.64%). In the multivariable analysis, individual level (being young, being an internet user, being tested for HIV, and having comprehensive knowledge about HIV) and community level (being a rural dweller) were factors associated with discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS. CONCLUSION The prevalence of discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS in three sub-Saharan African countries was high. Individual and community-level variables were associated with discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS. Therefore, special consideration should be given to rural dwellers and young adults. In addition, better to strengthen the accessibility of Internet and HIV testing services, and improve HIV-related education to reduce the magnitude of discriminatory attitudes against people living with HIV/AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belayneh Shetie Workneh
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Alebachew Ferede Zegeye
- Department of Medical Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Tarik Tamir
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Seid Ali
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Temesgen Ayenew
- Department of Emergency and critical care nursing, College of health sciences, Debremarkos Markos University, Debre Markos, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Enyew Getaneh Mekonen
- Department of Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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West BS, Darisheva M, McCrimmon T, Zholnerova N, Grigorchuk E, Starbird L, Terlikbayeva A, Primbetova S, Baiserkin B, Musina Z, Kasymbekova S, Cordingley O, Frye VA. Scaling Up HIV Self-Testing and Linkage to Care Among Women Who Exchange Sex and/or Use Drugs in Kazakhstan. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2024; 36:216-228. [PMID: 38917303 PMCID: PMC11440631 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2024.36.3.216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
HIV testing is the point of entry for linkage to treatment and prevention and is critically important to ending the HIV epidemic. HIV self-testing (HST) is an acceptable, user-controlled tool that can address testing barriers, which is especially important for populations who need to test frequently, like women who exchange or trade sex for money or other needed resources (WES) and women who use drugs. HST is feasible and acceptable among WES, but research among WES who also use drugs is limited, particularly in places like Kazakhstan, where HIV rates remain high and where scale-up of HST and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is in process. To develop effective programming, there is a need to develop tailored services for WES and/or use drugs that address key barriers. We discuss opportunities to increase HST and linkage to services among WES and/or use drugs in Kazakhstan, with a focus on stigma reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Laura Starbird
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | | | | | - Zhanat Musina
- Kazakh Scientific Center of Dermatology and Infectious Diseaseas
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Plant A, Sparks P, Creech DN, Morgan T, Klausner JD, Rietmeijer C, Montoya JA. Developing an mHealth program to improve HIV care continuum outcomes among young Black gay and bisexual men. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1247. [PMID: 38714973 PMCID: PMC11075214 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18652-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young Black gay and bisexual men (YBGBM) in the United States face significant disparities in HIV care outcomes. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have shown promise with improving outcomes for YBGBM across the HIV care continuum. METHODS We developed an mHealth application using human-centered design (HCD) from 2019-2021 in collaboration with YBGBM living with HIV and with HIV service providers. Our HCD process began with six focus groups with 50 YBGBM and interviews with 12 providers. These insights were used to inform rapid prototyping, which involved iterative testing and refining of program features and content, with 31 YBGBM and 12 providers. We then collected user feedback via an online survey with 200 YBGBM nationwide and usability testing of a functional prototype with 21 YBGBM. RESULTS Focus groups and interviews illuminated challenges faced by YBGBM living with HIV, including coping with an HIV diagnosis, stigma, need for social support, and a dearth of suitable information sources. YBGBM desired a holistic approach that could meet the needs of those newly diagnosed as well as those who have been living with HIV for many years. Program preferences included video-based content where users could learn from peers and experts, a range of topics, a community of people living with HIV, and tools to support their health and well-being. Providers expressed enthusiasm for an mHealth program to improve HIV care outcomes and help them serve clients. Rapid prototyping resulted in a list of content topics, resources, video characteristics, community features, and mHealth tools to support adherence, retention, goal setting, and laboratory results tracking, as well as tools to help organization staff to support clients. Online survey and usability testing confirmed the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of the content, tools, and features. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the potential of a video-based mHealth program to address the unique needs of YBGBM living with HIV, offering support and comprehensive information through a user-friendly interface and videos of peers living with HIV and of experts. The HCD approach allowed for continuous improvements to the concept to maximize cultural appropriateness, utility, and potential effectiveness for both YBGBM and HIV service organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Plant
- Sentient Research, 231 North Walnuthaven Drive, West Covina, CA, 91790, USA.
| | - Paul Sparks
- Sentient Research, 231 North Walnuthaven Drive, West Covina, CA, 91790, USA
| | | | - Ta'Jalik Morgan
- Sentient Research, 231 North Walnuthaven Drive, West Covina, CA, 91790, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1975 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | | | - Jorge A Montoya
- Sentient Research, 231 North Walnuthaven Drive, West Covina, CA, 91790, USA
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9
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Eaton LA, Huedo-Medina T, Earnshaw VA, Kalichman M, Watson RJ, Driver R, Chandler CJ, Kalinowski J, Kalichman SC. Randomized Clinical Trial of Stigma Counseling and HIV Testing Access Interventions to Increase HIV Testing Among Black Sexual Minority Men and Transwomen. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2024; 25:650-660. [PMID: 37898978 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-023-01603-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Advances in HIV prevention tools have outpaced our ability to ensure equitable access to these tools. Novel approaches to reducing known barriers to accessing HIV prevention, such as stigma and logistical-related factors, are urgently needed. To evaluate the efficacy of a randomized controlled trial with four intervention arms to address barriers to HIV/STI testing uptake (primary outcome) and PrEP use, depression, and HIV test results (secondary outcomes). We tested a 2 × 2 research design: main effect 1-stigma-focused vs. health information evaluation-focused counseling, main effect 2-offering HIV/STI testing appointments in person vs. at home with a counselor via video chat, and the interaction of the main effects. Participants (N = 474) residing in the southeastern USA were screened and enrolled in a longitudinal trial. Intervention efficacy was established using generalized linear modeling with binomial or Poisson distributions. Intervention efficacy demonstrated an increase in HIV/STI testing uptake when testing was made available at home with a counselor via video chat vs. in person (83% vs. 75% uptake, p < .05), and participants were also more likely to test positive for HIV over the course of the study in the at-home condition (14.5% vs. 9.4%, p < .05). Stigma-focused counseling resulted in lower depression scores and greater uptake of PrEP among participants < 30 years of age when compared with health information counseling (15.4% vs. 9.6%, p < .05). In order to prevent further disparities between HIV prevention advances and access to HIV prevention tools, we must prioritize improvements in linking people to care. Novel interventions, such as those proposed here, offer a practical, evidence-based path to addressing long-standing barriers to HIV prevention strategies. Trial registration: NCT03107910.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Eaton
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 2006 Hillside Rd, Storrs, CT, 06279-1248, USA.
| | | | - Valerie A Earnshaw
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | | | - Ryan J Watson
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 2006 Hillside Rd, Storrs, CT, 06279-1248, USA
| | - Redd Driver
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cristian J Chandler
- Center for Health Services Research, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jolaade Kalinowski
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 2006 Hillside Rd, Storrs, CT, 06279-1248, USA
| | - Seth C Kalichman
- Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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10
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Aggarwal A, Zhang R, Qiao S, Wang B, Lwatula C, Menon A, Ostermann J, Li X, Harper G. Physician-Patient Interaction Quality Mediates the Association Between HIV-Related Stigma and HIV-Prevention Behaviors Among Sexual Minority Men in Zambia. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1559-1569. [PMID: 37874436 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04171-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
HIV-related stigma is a major challenge to HIV prevention for sexual minority men (SMM) in Zambia, but little is known about the underlying mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate whether physician-patient interaction quality mediates the relationship between HIV-related stigma and HIV-prevention behaviors among SMM. Data were collected using a cross-sectional survey from 194 SMM (aged: mean = 24.08, SD = 4.27) across four districts in Zambia between February and November 2021. Participants were asked about their demographic characteristics, HIV-related stigma, SMM-related stigma, physician-patient interaction quality, HIV-testing intention, and use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Path analysis was used to test the mediation effect of physician-patient interaction quality in the associations of HIV-related stigma/SMM-related stigma with HIV-testing intention and current PrEP use. Higher self-reported physician-patient interaction quality was negatively associated with HIV-related stigma (β = - 0.444, z = - 2.223, p < 0.05), and positively associated with HIV-testing intention (β = 0.039, z = 5.121, p < 0.001) and current PrEP use (β = 0.008, z = 2.723, p < 0.01). HIV-related stigma among SMM had a significant and negative indirect effect on HIV-testing intention (β = - 0.017, z = - 2.006, p < 0.05), and current PrEP use (β = - 0.004, z = - 2.009, p < 0.05) through physician-patient interaction quality. Contrary to our expectations, SMM-related stigma did not have a significant and negative indirect effect on HIV prevention behaviors through physician-patient interaction quality. Health interventions need to improve physician-patient interaction quality by offering healthcare provider training, targeting HIV-related stigma in healthcare settings, and devising inclusive healthcare policies to promote HIV prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Aggarwal
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Ran Zhang
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Shan Qiao
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA.
| | - Bo Wang
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Boston, USA
| | | | - Anitha Menon
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jan Ostermann
- Department of Health Service Policy and Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Gary Harper
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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11
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Luvuno ZPB, Wiafe E, Mpofana N, Urusla MM, Nxumalo CT. Fast-track interventions for HIV and AIDS epidemic control among key populations: A rapid review. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2024; 16:e1-e12. [PMID: 38708735 PMCID: PMC11079388 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v16i1.4088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeted interventions for key populations remain critical for realisation of epidemic control for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection because of the causal relationship between HIV infection in the general population and among key population groups. AIM To consolidate evidence on the fast-track interventions towards achieving HIV epidemic control among key populations. METHODS A rapid scoping review was conducted using the methodological framework by Arksey and O' Malley. The Population, Intervention, Context and Outcome (PICO) framework was used to identify relevant studies using key words with Boolean operators in electronic data bases, namely CINHAL, Web of Science, Psych Info and Sabinet. Studies were extracted using a modified data extraction tool, and results were presented narratively. RESULTS A total of 19 articles were included in this review. Most articles were primary studies (n = 17), while another involved the review of existing literature and policies (n = 2) and routinely collected data (n = 1). Most studies were conducted in the United States of America (n = 6), while another were conducted in China, Kenya, Botswana, South Africa and Mozambique. All studies revealed findings on tested interventions to achieve HIV epidemic control among key populations. CONCLUSION Effective interventions for HIV epidemic control were stand-alone behavioural preventive interventions, stand-alone biomedical preventive strategies and combination prevention approaches. Furthermore, the findings suggest that effective activities to achieve HIV epidemic control among key populations should be centred around prevention.Contribution: The findings of this study have policy and practice implications for high HIV burden settings such as South Africa in terms of interventions to facilitate realisation of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) 95-95-95 targets, thereby contributing to HIV epidemic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zamasomi P B Luvuno
- Centre for Rural Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard Campus, Durban.
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12
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Dai Z, Wu Y, Liu X, Fu J, Si M, Chen X, Wang H, Xiao W, Huang Y, Yu F, Mi G, Su X. Characteristics and influencing factors of anticipated HIV stigma among HIV-negative/unknown MSM in China: A regression mixture model. Brain Behav 2024; 14:e3472. [PMID: 38549560 PMCID: PMC10979188 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anticipated HIV stigma among men who have sex with men's (MSM) has a severe negative effect on their physical and mental health wellbeing and hence requires specific attention. The current study aims to identify the characteristics and the psychosocial influencing factors of anticipated HIV stigma in MSM using regression mixture model (RMM) and to determine the cut-off point of the seven-item Anticipated HIV Stigma Questionnaire (AHSQ) using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-negative/unknown MSM from Blued online platform in China from December 16th, 2020 to March 1st, 2021, enrolling 1394 participants. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, perceived social support, anticipated HIV stigma, depressive symptoms, and HIV knowledge. Latent profile analysis was performed to identify different profiles of anticipated HIV stigma level. Chi-square test, analysis of variance, and RMM analysis were conducted to explore the influencing factors in different profiles. ROC analyses were carried out to identify the cut-off value of anticipated stigma. RESULTS Among the participants, three profiles of anticipated stigma were identified: "low anticipated HIV stigma" (12.0%), "moderate anticipated HIV stigma" (52.1%), and "severe anticipated HIV stigma" (35.9%). RMM analysis showed that higher income and higher levels of knowledge were positively associated with moderate anticipated HIV stigma, whereas full-time job and social support were negatively associated with moderate anticipated HIV stigma; higher income, depressive symptoms, and knowledge were positively associated with severe anticipated HIV stigma, whereas minor ethnicity and social support were negatively associated with severe anticipated HIV stigma. ROC curve of the AHSQ showed that the optimal cut-off value of ≥16 could indicate positive anticipated HIV stigma. CONCLUSION The study focuses on the level of anticipated HIV stigma and its psycho-socio influencing factors among HIV-negative/unknown MSM. It provides evidence for implementing relevant psychological interventions to HIV-negative/unknown MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwei Dai
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yijin Wu
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Xin Liu
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jiaqi Fu
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Mingyu Si
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Weijun Xiao
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yiman Huang
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Public WelfareBeijingChina
| | | | - Xiaoyou Su
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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13
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Mahlalela NB, Manne-Goehler J, Ohene-Kwofie D, B Adams L, Montana L, Kahn K, Rohr JK, Bärnighausen T, Gómez-Olivé FX. The Association Between HIV-Related Stigma and the Uptake of HIV Testing and ART Among Older Adults in Rural South Africa: Findings from the HAALSI Cohort Study. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1104-1121. [PMID: 38286975 PMCID: PMC10896802 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04222-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) remain critical for curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS, but stigma can impede access to these services. Using data from the Health and Aging in Africa: A Longitudinal Study of an INDEPTH Community in South Africa (HAALSI), we used a multivariable logistic regression to examine the correlation between HIV-related stigma, HIV testing and ART uptake in older adults. We used four questions to measure stigma, with three assessing social stigma (reflecting social distancing preferences) and one assessing anticipated stigma (disclosure concern). We combined the three social stigma questions to generate a social stigma score ranging from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating higher stigma. Anticipated stigma was prevalent 85% (95% CI 0.84-0.86), and social stigma was also frequent 25% (95% CI 0.24-0.27). Higher social stigma scores correlated with decreased HIV testing for all participants with social stigma. Compared to those with a score of 0, odds of testing decreased with higher stigma scores (OR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.53-0.81, p = 0.000) for a score of 1 and (OR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.38-0.83, p = 0.004) for a score of 3. ART uptake also decreased with higher social stigma scores among people living with HIV (PLWH), although it was significant for those with a score of 2 (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.19-0.87, p = 0.020). These findings emphasize that HIV-related stigma hampers testing and ART uptake among older adults in rural South Africa. Addressing stigma is crucial for improving testing rates, early diagnosis, and treatment initiation among the older population and achieving UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nomsa B Mahlalela
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Jennifer Manne-Goehler
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Ohene-Kwofie
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Leslie B Adams
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Livia Montana
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- The DHS Program, ICF, Rockville MD, USA
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Julia K Rohr
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Mtubatuba, South Africa
| | - Francesc X Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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14
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Abrantes R, Pimentel V, Miranda MNS, Silva AR, Diniz A, Ascenção B, Piñeiro C, Koch C, Rodrigues C, Caldas C, Morais C, Faria D, Gomes da Silva E, Teófilo E, Monteiro F, Roxo F, Maltez F, Rodrigues F, Gaião G, Ramos H, Costa I, Germano I, Simões J, Oliveira J, Ferreira J, Poças J, Saraiva da Cunha J, Soares J, Fernandes S, Mansinho K, Pedro L, Aleixo MJ, Gonçalves MJ, Manata MJ, Mouro M, Serrado M, Caixeiro M, Marques N, Costa O, Pacheco P, Proença P, Rodrigues P, Pinho R, Tavares R, Correia de Abreu R, Côrte-Real R, Serrão R, Sarmento e Castro R, Nunes S, Faria T, Baptista T, Simões D, Mendão L, Martins MRO, Gomes P, Pingarilho M, Abecasis AB. Determinants of HIV late presentation among men who have sex with men in Portugal (2014-2019): who's being left behind? Front Public Health 2024; 12:1336845. [PMID: 38500732 PMCID: PMC10947991 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1336845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction HIV late presentation (LP) remains excessive in Europe. We aimed to analyze the factors associated with late presentation in the MSM population newly diagnosed with HIV in Portugal between 2014 and 2019. Methods We included 391 newly HIV-1 diagnosed Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), from the BESTHOPE project, in 17 countrywide Portuguese hospitals. The data included clinical and socio-behavioral questionnaires and the viral genomic sequence obtained in the drug resistance test before starting antiretrovirals (ARVs). HIV-1 subtypes and epidemiological surveillance mutations were determined using different bioinformatics tools. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between predictor variables and late presentation (LP). Results The median age was 31 years, 51% had a current income between 501-1,000 euros, 28% were migrants. 21% had never been tested for HIV before diagnosis, with 42.3% of MSM presenting LP. 60% were infected with subtype B strains. In the multivariate regression, increased age at diagnosis, higher income, lower frequency of screening, STI ever diagnosed and higher viral load were associated with LP. Conclusion Our study suggests that specific subgroups of the MSM population, such older MSM, with higher income and lower HIV testing frequency, are not being targeted by community and clinical screening services. Overall, targeted public health measures should be strengthened toward these subgroups, through strengthened primary care testing, expanded access to PrEP, information and promotion of HIV self-testing and more inclusive and accessible health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Abrantes
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Victor Pimentel
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mafalda N. S. Miranda
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Silva
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - António Diniz
- U. Imunodeficiência, Hospital Pulido Valente, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bianca Ascenção
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Carmela Piñeiro
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmo Koch
- Centro de Biologia Molecular, Serviço de Imunohemoterapia do Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Rodrigues
- Serviço de Medicina 1.4, Hospital de São José, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cátia Caldas
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia Morais
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Domitília Faria
- Serviço de Medicina 3, Hospital de Portimão, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Portimão, Portugal
| | | | - Eugénio Teófilo
- Serviço de Medicina 2.3, Hospital de Santo António dos Capuchos, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fátima Monteiro
- Centro de Biologia Molecular, Serviço de Imunohemoterapia do Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fausto Roxo
- Hospital de Dia de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital Distrital de Santarém, Santarém, Portugal
| | - Fernando Maltez
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital Curry Cabral, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fernando Rodrigues
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Guilhermina Gaião
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Hospital de Sta Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Helena Ramos
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Centro Hospitalar do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Costa
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular (LMCBM, SPC, CHLO-HEM), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel Germano
- Serviço de Medicina 1.4, Hospital de São José, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Simões
- Serviço de Medicina 1.4, Hospital de São José, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joaquim Oliveira
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José Ferreira
- Serviço de Medicina 2, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - José Poças
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal, Portugal
| | - José Saraiva da Cunha
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jorge Soares
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra Fernandes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular (LMCBM, SPC, CHLO-HEM), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Kamal Mansinho
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Liliana Pedro
- Serviço de Medicina 3, Hospital de Portimão, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Portimão, Portugal
| | | | | | - Maria José Manata
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital Curry Cabral, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Margarida Mouro
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital de Aveiro, Centro Hospitalar Baixo Vouga, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Serrado
- U. Imunodeficiência, Hospital Pulido Valente, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Micaela Caixeiro
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Dr. Fernando da Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Nuno Marques
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Garcia da Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - Olga Costa
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Biologia Molecular, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Pacheco
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Dr. Fernando da Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Paula Proença
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Paulo Rodrigues
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - Raquel Pinho
- Serviço de Medicina 3, Hospital de Portimão, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Portimão, Portugal
| | - Raquel Tavares
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Correia de Abreu
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Unidade de Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Rita Côrte-Real
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Biologia Molecular, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rosário Serrão
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Sofia Nunes
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital de Aveiro, Centro Hospitalar Baixo Vouga, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Telo Faria
- Unidade Local de Saúde do Baixo Alentejo, Hospital José Joaquim Fernandes, Beja, Portugal
| | - Teresa Baptista
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daniel Simões
- Grupo de Ativistas em Tratamentos (GAT), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luis Mendão
- Grupo de Ativistas em Tratamentos (GAT), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M. Rosário O. Martins
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Perpétua Gomes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular (LMCBM, SPC, CHLO-HEM), Lisbon, Portugal
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, Almada, Portugal
| | - Marta Pingarilho
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana B. Abecasis
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
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15
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D'Anna LH, Chang K. Healthcare discrimination, anticipated HIV stigma, and income as predictors of HIV testing among a community sample of YBMSM. AIDS Care 2024; 36:212-219. [PMID: 37607018 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2240068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) are at particular risk for HIV, and knowing one's HIV status is key to preventing new HIV infections. Data were derived from a community-based study involving 250 YBMSM to examine the relationships between race-based discrimination experienced in healthcare settings, anticipated HIV stigma, household income and lifetime HIV testing. Lifetime HIV testing was regressed on racial discrimination in healthcare settings, anticipated HIV stigma, and income, and a significant 3-way interaction was found. To help interpret the 3-way interaction, lifetime HIV testing was regressed on racial discrimination in healthcare settings and anticipated HIV stigma in two separate models; with low-income and higher-income YBMSM. Anticipated HIV stigma was found to predict HIV testing among low-income YBMSM. A significant interaction was detected such that low-income YBMSM with low levels of anticipated HIV stigma were more likely to get tested for HIV regardless of experiences with healthcare discrimination, while low-income YBMSM who reported greater anticipated HIV stigma and more experiences of healthcare discrimination were less likely to get tested for HIV. Understanding the complexity of potential barriers is crucial for developing interventions to increase HIV testing within this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hoyt D'Anna
- Center for Health Equity Research, California State University, Long Beach
| | - Kyle Chang
- Center for Health Equity Research, California State University, Long Beach
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16
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Toledo LDSG, Palmieri P, Ribeiro GDR, Silva AD, Bastos FI. Barriers and facilitators for HIV rapid testing among transgender women and gay and other men who have sex with men in Brazil: A scoping review. Glob Public Health 2024; 19:2360982. [PMID: 38937916 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2024.2360982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Transgender women (TGW) and men who have sex with other men (MSM) often encounter disparities in accessing HIV testing, leading to delayed diagnoses and worse prognoses. We analysed barriers and facilitators for accessing HIV rapid testing by TGW and MSM in Brazil, 2004-2023. Citations were included whether the study population consisted of individuals aged ≥18y old, and studies addressed HIV testing and have been conducted in Brazil. The study protocol was based on Joanna Briggs' recommendations for scoping reviews. We included 11 studies on TGW and 17 on MSM. The belief that one is not at risk of contracting HIV infection, fear expressed in different ways (e.g. lack of confidentiality) and younger age were the main barriers. Feeling at risk for HIV infection, curiosity, and favourable characteristics of the setting where the testing takes place were cited as the main facilitators. Barriers and facilitators specifically for HIV self-testing included, respectively, concerns about conducting the test alone vs. autonomy/flexibility. Brazil is unlikely to achieve the UN' 95-95-95 goal without minimising testing disparities. Combating prejudice against TGW and MSM in testing settings, along with educational campaigns and transparent protocols to ensure confidentiality, can help increase HIV testing among these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paloma Palmieri
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gizele da Rocha Ribeiro
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Adriano da Silva
- National School of Public Health Sergio Arouca, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Francisco Inácio Bastos
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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17
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Ranjit YS, Krishnan A, Earnshaw VA, Weikum D, Ferro EG, Sanchez J, Altice FL. Psychometric Evaluation and Validation of the HIV Stigma Scale in Spanish among Men who have Sex with Men and Transgender Women. STIGMA AND HEALTH 2023; 8:437-444. [PMID: 38434589 PMCID: PMC10906740 DOI: 10.1037/sah0000302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Stigma and discrimination toward the LGBTQ community is pervasive and negatively impacts health. Validated measures of stigma in Spanish, however, are limited and none have specifically validated HIV-related stigma in Spanish-speaking men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in resource-limited settings. The aim of this study is to evaluate the psychometric properties of a standardized HIV Stigma Scale, translated to Spanish, including its factor structure. Measures consisted of self-reported socio-demographic measures of age, sex, sexual orientation, education, employment status, income, living situation, HIV stigma, depressive symptoms, and social support. Using SPSS AMOS 24, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the 10-item Wright HIV Stigma Scale translated to Spanish was conducted in 359 MSM and TGW with HIV recruited from HIV clinics in Lima, Peru. The path model with three sub-scales: enacted, anticipated and internalized stigma, with eight items had an adequate fit to the data. The Spanish version (HIV Stigma Scale-ES) and its dimensions are similar to the ones validated in English for people with HIV (not MSM). Each construct was deemed to be reliable and showed good construct validity. Given the need to better understand and measure stigma in Spanish-speaking MSM, the HIV Stigma Scale-ES can be a useful tool to examine stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Archana Krishnan
- Department of Communication, University at Albany, State University of New York
| | | | - Damian Weikum
- AIDS Program, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine
| | - Enrico G. Ferro
- AIDS Program, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine
| | - Jorge Sanchez
- Centro de Investigaciones Tecnologicas, Biomedicas y Medioambientales, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
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18
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Weinstein ER, Lozano A, Jones MA, Jimenez DE, Safren SA. Factors Associated with Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among a Community-Based Sample of Sexual Minority Older Adults with HIV. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3285-3293. [PMID: 36971877 PMCID: PMC11299000 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04048-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Older sexual minorities (e.g., gay, bisexual) living with HIV are at risk for poor HIV outcomes due to their frequent experience with both psychosocial challenges and structural barriers to care. This study utilized a stochastic search variable selection (SVSS) approach to explore potential psychosocial and structural factors associated with HIV-related health outcomes among a community-based sample of older sexual minorities (N = 150) in South Florida, an U.S. HIV-epidemic epicenter. After SVSS, a forward entry regression approach suggested unstable housing, illicit substance use, current nicotine use, and depression were all associated with poorer ART adherence among older sexual minority adults living with HIV. No associations between potential correlates and biological measures of HIV disease severity were observed. Findings highlight a need to focus on multiple levels of intervention that target a combination of psychosocial and structural factors to improve HIV-care outcomes among older sexual minorities and achieve Ending the HIV Epidemic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alyssa Lozano
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Megan A Jones
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, USA
| | - Daniel E Jimenez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
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19
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Zhang Y, Shi L, Fu G, Yang C, Zaller ND, Wei C, Yan H. Willingness to use and intention to adhere to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among men who have sex with men in Jiangsu Province, China. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1386-1394. [PMID: 37075742 PMCID: PMC10523904 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2200992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACTPre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a biomedical prevention approach that significantly reduces HIV acquisition. Our study aimed to explore factors associated with PrEP willingness and intention to adhere to PrEP among MSM through a cross-sectional survey in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, China. Location sampling (TLS) and online recruitment were used to recruit participants to gauge their PrEP willingness and intention to adhere. Of 309 HIV-negative/unknown serostatus MSM, 75.7% were willing to use PrEP and 55.3% had high intention to take PrEP daily. Willingness to use PrEP was positively associated with having a college degree or higher (AOR = 1.90, 95%CI: 1.11-3.26) and higher anticipated HIV stigma (AOR = 2.74, 95%CI: 1.13-6.61). Facilitators of intention to adhere included higher education levels (AOR = 2.12, 95%CI: 1.33-3.39) and higher anticipated HIV stigma (AOR = 3.65, 95%CI: 1.36-9.80), whereas a primary barrier was community homophobia (AOR = 0.43, 95%CI: 0.20-0.92). This study documented high willingness to use PrEP, yet lower intention to adhere to PrEP in a sample of MSM in China. Public interventions and programs to promote adherence of PrEP for MSM is urgently needed in China. Psychosocial factors should be addressed and taken into consideration for PrEP implementation and adherence programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Xuzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Xuzhou, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingen Shi
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Gengfeng Fu
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Cui Yang
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Nickolas D Zaller
- College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
| | | | - Hongjing Yan
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
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20
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Eaton LA, Layland EK, Driver R, Kalichman SC, Kalichman MO, Watson RJ, Kalinowski J, Chandler CJ, Earnshaw VA. Novel Latent Profile Analysis of a Test of Concept, Stigma Intervention to Increase PrEP Uptake Among Black Sexual Minority Men. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 94:1-9. [PMID: 37195906 PMCID: PMC10524435 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has demonstrated efficacy for HIV prevention, yet uptake of PrEP among populations in urgent need of prevention tools (eg, Black sexual minority men) is limited, and stigma and medical mistrust remain strong barriers to accessing PrEP. PURPOSE To evaluate a test of concept brief intervention to address stigma and medical mistrust as barriers to PrEP uptake using novel latent profile analysis. METHODS Participants (N = 177) residing in the southeastern US were randomized to 1 of 4 arms to establish the potential impact of a brief, stigma focused counseling intervention (referred to as Jumpstart ) to increase PrEP uptake. We estimated intervention effect size (Cramer's V) for PrEP uptake and then explored differential intervention effects across latent profiles of psychosocial barriers to PrEP use. RESULTS The intervention resulted in small, but meaningful effect size, with self-reported PrEP uptake increasing across Jumpstart conditions with the control condition reporting 24% uptake and Jumpstart plus text/phone calls (the most intensive intervention arm) reporting 37% uptake, and a similar pattern emerging for biologically confirmed PrEP use. Among participants 30 and older, Jumpstart participants were more likely to move to a postintervention profile with fewer barriers than control participants and reported the highest uptake of PrEP. CONCLUSIONS Addressing social/emotional barriers to PrEP uptake is an essential component of bridging the gap between advances being made in biomedical forms of HIV prevention, and establishing and supporting access to those advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Eaton
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
| | - Eric K Layland
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT
| | - Redd Driver
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | | | | | - Ryan J Watson
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
| | - Jolaade Kalinowski
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
| | - Cristian J Chandler
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT
- Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN; and
| | - Valerie A Earnshaw
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE
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21
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Harkness A, Lozano A, Bainter S, Mayo D, Hernandez Altamirano D, Rogers BG, Prado G, Safren SA. Engaging Latino sexual minority men in PrEP and behavioral health care: multilevel barriers, facilitators, and potential implementation strategies. J Behav Med 2023; 46:655-667. [PMID: 36472703 PMCID: PMC10442148 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-022-00371-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Latino sexual minority men (LSMM) are affected by HIV and behavioral health disparities. Evidence-based HIV-prevention and behavioral health (BH) services are not sufficiently scaled up to LSMM. The current study identified multilevel barriers and facilitators to LSMM's use of HIV-prevention and BH services. LSMM (N = 290) in South Florida, a US HIV epicenter, completed a battery of measures potentially associated with pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and BH treatment use. Stochastic search variable selection (SSVS) followed by multiple linear regression analyses identified variables associated with engagement in PrEP and BH treatment. Multilevel determinants of PrEP and BH treatment engagement were identified, with most identified determinants being at the relational level (e.g., stigma, discrimination based on income and immigration status, personal recommendation for treatment). Individual (e.g., knowledge, self-efficacy) and structural (e.g., financial stress) determinants were also identified. Accordingly, modifiable leverage points to enhance the reach of PrEP and BH treatment to LSMM include educating and enhancing the perceived relevance of services, de-stigmatizing and normalizing via peer examples, bolstering self-efficacy, and building trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Harkness
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
| | - Alyssa Lozano
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sierra Bainter
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Daniel Mayo
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | | | - Brooke G Rogers
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Guillermo Prado
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Steven A Safren
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
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22
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Fujii K, Hashimoto H. Socio-psychological factors associated with anticipated stigma toward COVID-19: a cross-sectional study in Japan. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1245. [PMID: 37370015 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16159-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The stigmatization against COVID-19 has become a public issue. However, it remains unknown which individual factor contributes to anticipated stigma formation. This study explored socio-psychological factors associated with anticipated stigma toward coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). METHODS We obtained cross-sectional data regarding 1,638 middle-aged community residents (mean age, 48.5 years) from a population-based survey in metropolitan Tokyo, Japan during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, when a regional public health emergency had been declared in December 2020 and January 2021. We hypothesized that perceived risk of infection, normative beliefs about preventive behaviors, and past experiences of stigmatization unrelated to COVID-19 would be associated with anticipated stigma. Modified Poisson regression was conducted to examine associations after adjustments for demographic and socioeconomic statuses. RESULTS Higher perceived risk (adjusted prevalence ratio [APR] = 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI, 1.08-1.27]), past experiences of stigmatization (APR = 1.09; 95% CI [1.00-1.19]), and higher normative beliefs about preventive behaviors (APR = 1.18; 95% CI [1.11-1.26]) were independently associated with anticipated stigma. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that intervention messages to increase risk perception and normative beliefs to enhance protective behaviors may have the unintended effect of increasing anticipated stigma in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kana Fujii
- Department of Health and Social Behavior, The University of Tokyo School of Public Health, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Hideki Hashimoto
- Department of Health and Social Behavior, The University of Tokyo School of Public Health, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
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23
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Wiginton JM, Tobin K, Maksut J, Davey-Rothwell M, Latkin C. Branched sexuality and sexual health among Black cisgender sexual minority men in Baltimore, Maryland: an exploratory study. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2023; 25:744-761. [PMID: 35830487 PMCID: PMC9898841 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2022.2096260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Branched sexuality - in form of combinations of sexual identity, behaviour and attraction (e.g. heterosexual identity, sex with men, attraction to women) that differ from coincident combinations (e.g. gay/homosexual/same-gender-loving identity, sex with men, attraction to men) - has been observed among Black sexual minority men and may correlate with sexual health. Using baseline survey data from Black sexual minority men (N = 323) enrolled in a sexual health intervention trial, we examined sexual identity, behaviour and attraction to determine the prevalence of branched sexuality and used modified Poisson regression with robust variance estimation to test associations with sexual health. Black sexual minority men reporting branched sexuality (n = 50, 15.5%) were marginally more likely to endorse negative condom-use attitudes compared to those reporting coincident sexuality (n = 273, 84.5%; adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.94, 2.32) and significantly more likely to endorse negative condom-use attitudes compared to those reporting gay/homosexual/same-gender-loving-coincident sexuality (aPR = 1.85, 95% CI = 01.07, 3.22). Those reporting branched sexuality were significantly less likely to report past-year testing for sexually transmitted infections compared to those reporting coincident (PR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.28, 0.94) or gay/homosexual/same-gender-loving-coincident sexuality (PR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.25, 0.84) in bivariate analyses only. Increased understanding of Black sexual minority men's sexuality and improved sexuality data collection efforts are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Mark Wiginton
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Karin Tobin
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jessica Maksut
- Center for Public Health & Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Melissa Davey-Rothwell
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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24
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Prasad R, Jaiswal A, Prasad R, Wanjari MB, Sharma DR. The Vital Role of Public Health Nurses in Perinatal HIV Prevention and Elimination. Cureus 2023; 15:e38704. [PMID: 37292570 PMCID: PMC10246483 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Perinatal HIV transmission remains a significant public health challenge, with an estimated 160,000 children newly infected with HIV each year. Public health nurses play a critical role in the prevention and elimination of perinatal HIV transmission through targeted interventions such as identification of pregnant women with HIV, referral and linkage to care, provision of antiretroviral therapy, and follow-up and retention in care for both mothers and infants. However, significant barriers to successful implementation exist, including stigma and discrimination, limited access to healthcare services, socioeconomic factors, and limited resources. Addressing these barriers will require a multifaceted approach that includes policy changes, community engagement, and targeted support and resources for affected families. In this review article, we provide an overview of the epidemiology of perinatal HIV transmission, current strategies for prevention and elimination, and the vital role of public health nurses in these efforts. We will also discuss the barriers to the successful implementation of public health nurse interventions and the future directions for research and practice in this field. Ultimately, the goal of perinatal HIV prevention and elimination can only be achieved through a sustained and collaborative effort across multiple sectors and stakeholders, with public health nurses playing a crucial role in this effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajnandini Prasad
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Arpita Jaiswal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, wardha, IND
| | - Roshan Prasad
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Mayur B Wanjari
- Department of Research and Development, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Dr Ranjana Sharma
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Smt. Radhikabai Meghe Memorial College of Nursing, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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25
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Semler M, Pax L, McNamara KF, Joyce C, Shore J, Morey C, Gawne E, Clark NM. Reported HIV-related stigma according to race and ethnicity. AIDS Care 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37128634 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2206097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) have long experienced structural, community, and personal stigma. We explored differences in experienced HIV-related stigma according to race/ethnicity using quantitative and qualitative measures. Sixty-four patients were enrolled in this study (22 White and 42 people of color [POC]). POC scored higher than White PLWHA on all 12 survey statements, with statistically significant differences in disclosure concerns and with one of the statements on public attitudes towards PLWHA. Common themes in the qualitative interview were HIV disclosure concerns and fear of rejection. These data demonstrate that stigma continues to be a significant concern for PLWHA, particularly POC, meaningfully impacting their lives. By acknowledging and working to reduce negative perceptions about PLWHA, physicians may improve care for their patients by developing more trusting relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Semler
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Laura Pax
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | | | - Cara Joyce
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
- Center for Health Outcomes and Informatics Research, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | | | - Craig Morey
- Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA
| | | | - Nina M Clark
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
- Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA
- Infectious Disease & Immunology Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
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26
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Rocha GM, Cândido RCF, de Carvalho NP, Carvalho EGA, Costa AAM, Machado IV, da Cruz Pimenta MP, de Paula Júnior JA, Guimarães MDC, de Pádua CAM. Strategies to increase HIV testing among men who have sex with men and transgender women: an integrative review. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:240. [PMID: 37072705 PMCID: PMC10111644 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08124-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) are disproportionately affected by HIV, with much higher incidence and prevalence rates than in the general population in different countries. There are several barriers to testing among MSM and TGW, such as low risk perception, anticipation of HIV-related stigma, discrimination of sexual orientation, in addition to difficulties related to care and access to health services. Therefore, analyzing the available evidence of the effectiveness of strategies for scaling up HIV testing among key populations is essential to point out potential knowledge gaps which may need to be addressed and develop public health policies to promote testing and early diagnosis of HIV infection. METHODS An integrative review was carried out to evaluate strategies for scaling up HIV testing in these populations. Search strategy was performed on eight electronic databases, without language restriction. We included clinical trials, quasi-experimental studies, and non-randomized studies. Study selection and data extraction were both performed independently by pairs and disagreements were solved by a third revisor. The screening of the studies was carried out through the selection of titles/abstracts and the reading of the full texts of the pre-selected studies based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Data extraction was performed using a structured form. RESULTS Thirty-seven publications referring to 35 studies were included, mostly being carried out in the United States of America and Australia. No studies were found evaluating disaggregated data on TGW. The studies were grouped into four types of intervention strategies: self-test distribution system (n = 10), organization of health services (n = 9), peer education (n = 6), and social marketing campaign (n = 10). Strategies that focused on the first three groups, combined or not, were more effective in increasing HIV testing among MSM. CONCLUSIONS Considering the diversity of interventions and the methodological heterogeneity of the included studies, strategies especially involving self-test distribution systems, associated with new information and communication technologies, should be evaluated in different communities and social contexts. Research evaluating specific studies on TGW population is still needed.
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27
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Religiosity and Engagement in HIV Care Among African American People Living with HIV. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023; 10:560-572. [PMID: 35079959 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01246-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
HIV continues to disproportionately impact Black/African Americans. New and innovative strategies are needed to increase and enhance engagement in HIV care. The Black/African American church is a powerful institution with the potential to enhance HIV care among congregants. This study examines perceptions on incorporating religiosity into engagement in HIV care for African Americans living with HIV among Black/African Americans persons living with HIV, church leaders and members, and HIV health and service providers. Findings indicated Black/African Americans living with HIV would be willing to engage in religiously tailored, joint church-health initiatives to increase engagement in care. Church leaders and members and HIV health and service providers also reported a willingness to provide religiously tailored services, and that providing these services would be both acceptable and feasible for implementation. These findings should be considered in future research designed to enhance engagement in HIV care for Black/African Americans living with HIV.
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28
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Lo Hog Tian JM, Watson JR, McFarland A, Parsons JA, Maunder RG, McGee A, Boni AR, Cioppa L, Ajiboye ME, Rourke SB. The cost of anticipating stigma: a longitudinal examination of HIV stigma and health. AIDS Care 2023:1-9. [PMID: 36942573 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2190575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Levels of HIV stigma remain high, however there is a limited understanding around how different types of stigma interact to impact health. This study uses data from two time points to examine how enacted and internalized stigma lead to worse health through anticipated stigma as a mediator. We recruited 341 participants in Ontario, Canada to complete the HIV Stigma Index survey at baseline (t1) from September 2018 to August 2019 and follow up (t2) approximately two years later. Mediation models were created with enacted and internalized stigma at t1 as the antecedents, anticipated stigma at t2 as the mediator, and physical health, mental health, and overall health at t2 as the outcomes. Only the model with internalized stigma (t1) as the antecedent had anticipated stigma (t2) as a significant mediator contributing to both decreased mental and overall health. This highlights the need to address internalized stigma and the potential for anticipated stigma interventions to be effective at improving the health and wellbeing of people living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Lo Hog Tian
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - James R Watson
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Abbey McFarland
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Janet A Parsons
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy and the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - A McGee
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anthony R Boni
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lynne Cioppa
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Monisola E Ajiboye
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- International Community of Women Living with HIV, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sean B Rourke
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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29
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Dai Z, Fu J, Qu Y, Wu Y, Si M, Chen X, Wang H, Xiao W, Huang Y, Yu F, Mi G, Su X. Depressive symptoms, perceived social support, and anticipated HIV stigma among HIV-negative/unknown men who have sex with men in China during the COVID-19 pandemic: A multicenter online cross-sectional study. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e2946. [PMID: 36917559 PMCID: PMC10097053 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence of depressive symptoms among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative/unknown men who have sex with men (MSM) in China and explore the relationship between perceived social support, anticipated HIV stigma, and depressive symptoms. METHODS Participants in this study were recruited from a gay social networking app (Blued) in China by convenience sampling from December 16, 2020 to March 1, 2021. Perceived Social Support Questionnaire, Anticipated HIV Stigma Questionnaire, and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale were used to measure the social support, anticipated HIV stigma, and depressive symptoms of participants. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to assess the reliability and validity of the measurement model. Structural equation modeling was employed to evaluate the association of perceived social support, anticipated HIV stigma, and depressive symptoms, as well as the mediation effects. RESULTS Overall, 47.70% (665/1394) of the participants had depressive symptoms. Perceived social support could have both direct and indirect effects on depressive symptoms with the mediating role of anticipated HIV stigma among HIV-negative/unknown MSM. CONCLUSION Tailored interventions regarding perceived social support and anticipated HIV stigma, such as group therapy, mutual support groups and mindfulness training, with the involvement of non-governmental or governmental organizations, should be taken into account to reduce depressive symptoms and stigma among HIV-negative/unknown MSM in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwei Dai
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaqi Fu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yimin Qu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yijin Wu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mingyu Si
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Weijun Xiao
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yiman Huang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Public Welfare, Beijing, China
| | | | - Xiaoyou Su
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Budhwani H, Yiğit İ, Maragh-Bass AC, Rainer CB, Claude K, Muessig KE, Hightow-Weidman LB. Development and Validation of the Youth Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Stigma Scale. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:929-938. [PMID: 36029425 PMCID: PMC9968821 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03829-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
To date, there are no established scales to assess PrEP stigma among youth. We validated the Youth PrEP Stigma Scale within the Adolescent Trials Network P3 study (2019-2021). Data from sexual and gender minority youth (16-24 years) who were prescribed PrEP across nine domestic sites were evaluated (N = 235). Descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, and correlation coefficients are reported. Results yielded a three-factor solution (PrEP Disapproval by Others, Enacted PrEP Stigma, and PrEP User Stereotypes) with strong factor loadings and Cronbach's alphas ranging from 0.83 to 0.90, suggesting excellent internal consistency. Correlations between this Scale, anticipated HIV stigma, perceived HIV risk, and disclosure of sexual identity were significant, indicating potential for robust application. Given the persistence of HIV infections among youth, stigma as a barrier to prevention, and expansion of PrEP modalities, the Youth PrEP Stigma Scale could enhance intervention and mechanistic research among youth at elevated risk for HIV acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henna Budhwani
- Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, College of Nursing, Florida State University, 32306, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
| | - İbrahim Yiğit
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, TED University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Allysha C Maragh-Bass
- Behavioral, Epidemiological, Clinical Sciences Division, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Crissi B Rainer
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kristina Claude
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lisa B Hightow-Weidman
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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McPherson KA, Reddy AK, Sajjadi NB, Deboy K, Gajjar S, Lad M, Hartwell M. Person-centred language and HIV research: a cross-sectional examination of stigmatising terminology in medical literature. Sex Transm Infect 2023; 99:110-115. [PMID: 35459753 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2021-055391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to quantify the use of person-centred language (PCL) in research journals that publish high volumes of HIV-related manuscripts. DESIGN In this cross-sectional study, we searched PubMed for HIV-related articles published between 1 January 2017 and 7 March 2021. After journal reduction and article randomisation, title and abstract screening was conducted among 500 studies in a masked, duplicate fashion. METHODS Studies that were included were systematically searched for prespecified, stigmatising terms, partial terms and phrases. Prevalence rates of non-person-centred terminology were totalled, and the total number of articles adherent to PCL guidelines were reported. Fisher's exact tests were used to determine associations between PCL adherence and article funding source, type of article, continent of origin and research, among others. RESULTS Among 237 studies included, 21.52% (51) of HIV-related publications in this cross-sectional analysis were found to be PCL adherent. Stigmatising labels such as 'HIV- or AIDS-infected' and 'HIV- or AIDS-person or patient' were used most frequently, with the former appearing in 57.38% of articles and the latter appearing in 30.80% of articles. CONCLUSION Despite numerous guidelines and requirements for the use of PCL in research, our findings suggest that an alarming number of HIV-related articles are not following these guidelines. This is concerning because this labelling likely contributes to the persistence of stigma in HIV-centred care. The intentional use of person-centred language in medical research has the potential to minimise the use of stigmatising language among medical professionals, in medical education, in medical records and patient encounters, and thus reduce stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen A McPherson
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Arjun K Reddy
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Nicholas B Sajjadi
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Kyle Deboy
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Swapnil Gajjar
- Department of Industrial Engineering & Management, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | | | - Micah Hartwell
- Office of Medical Student Research, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
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Loncar D, Izazola-Licea JA, Krishnakumar J. Exploring relationships between HIV programme outcomes and the societal enabling environment: A structural equation modeling statistical analysis in 138 low- and middle-income countries. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001864. [PMID: 37159438 PMCID: PMC10168546 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Countries worldwide have attempted to reduce the incidence of HIV and AIDS associated deaths with varying success, despite significant progress in antiretroviral treatment (ART) and condom use. A chief obstacles is that key populations affected face high levels of stigma, discrimination and exclusion, limiting the successful response to HIV. However, a gap exists in studies demonstrating the moderation effects of societal enablers on overall programme effectiveness and HIV outcomes using quantitative methods.Structural Equation Modeling was used for 138 countries covering a 12-year period to examine how the unfavorable societal enabling environment, including stigma and discrimination, unfavorable legal environment and lack of access to societal justice, gender inequality and other unfavorable development situations affect the effectiveness of HIV programmes and HIV outcomes, while controlling for potentially confounding variables. The results only showed statistical significance when all four societal enablers were modeled as a composite. The findings show the direct and indirect standardized effects of unfavorable societal enabling environments to AIDS-related mortality among PLHIV are statistically significant and positive (0.26 and 0.08, respectively). We hypothesize that this may be because an unfavorable societal enabling environment can negatively affect adherence to ART, quality of healthcare and health seeking behavior. Higher ranked societal environments increase the effect of ART coverage on AIDS related mortality by about 50% in absolute value, that is -0.61 as against -0.39 for lower ranked societal environments. However, mixed results were obtained on the impact of societal enablers on changes in HIV incidence through condom use. Results indicate that countries with better societal enabling environments had fewer estimated new HIV infections and fewer AIDS-related deaths. The failure to include societal enabling environments in HIV response undermines efforts to achieve the 2025 HIV targets, and the related 2030 Sustainable Development indicator to end AIDS, even if sufficient resources are mobilized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Loncar
- Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- ThinkWell, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Jaya Krishnakumar
- Institute of Economics and Econometrics Geneva School of Economics and Management, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Wilson EC, Turner CM, Dhakal M, Sharma S, Rai A, Lama R, Banik S, Arayasirikul S. Stigma as a barrier and sex work as a protective factor for HIV testing among trans women in Nepal. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001098. [PMID: 36963013 PMCID: PMC10022763 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Stigma towards trans women in Nepal creates individual and system-level risks for HIV. A critical protective factor is access to HIV prevention. Research is needed to determine the impact of stigma on HIV testing among trans women in Nepal. We conducted a secondary analysis of data collected using respondent driven sampling in 2019 on HIV risk among trans women in Nepal. Data analysis was restricted to trans women who were HIV negative at testing through the parent study. Descriptive statistics, tests for bivariable associations between HIV testing and stigma variables, and binomial Poisson regression were conducted to examine HIV testing outcomes. There were 173 participants who tested negative for HIV in our sample. The majority were under age 35 (59%) and most had a grade school education or less (64.7%). No trans women were homeless and most rented a room (70.5%) or owned their home (19.7%). The majority were currently sex workers (57.8%). Almost all HIV-negative trans women had ever been tested for HIV (90.8%), but only 53.5% in the last 3 months. The most frequently cited reason for not having been tested was thinking they were at low risk for HIV (40.9%) and being afraid of receiving a positive test result (22.7%). HIV and anti-trans stigma were high across most measures, including that almost all (94.2%) believed that most people in Nepal would discriminate against people with HIV. And most participants thought trans women were not accepted in Nepali Society (65.9%). Most participants also reported high social support (70.5%). Social cohesion among participants varied, with most experiencing medium (41.6%) or high (33.5%) social cohesion. Just over half had high social participation (55.5%). Participants who reported current sex work had lower prevalence of not testing for HIV in the last 3 months (prevalence ratio, PR = 0.54, 95% confidence interval, 95%CI = 0.32-0.92, p = 0.02). Every one-unit increase in social cohesion was associated with 1.05 times the prevalence of not testing for HIV in the last 3 months (95%CI = 1.01-1.09, p-value = 0.02). Trans women who did sex work were more likely to be HIV tested while those who were more socially connected to peers were less likely to have recently been tested for HIV. HIV stigma may result in fear of social rejection from peers if one tests positive. Interventions that focus on addressing stigma within trans women's social networks and strategies to mitigate HIV stigma in society may result in increased frequency of HIV testing among trans women in Nepal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C. Wilson
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Trans Research Unit for Equity (TRUE), Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Caitlin M. Turner
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Trans Research Unit for Equity (TRUE), Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | | | | | - Anuj Rai
- Blue Diamond Society, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Swagata Banik
- Department of Public Health & Prevention Sciences, Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Sean Arayasirikul
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Trans Research Unit for Equity (TRUE), Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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Zhao P, Wang J, Hall BJ, Sakyi K, Rafiq MY, Bodomo A, Wang C. HIV testing uptake, enablers, and barriers among African migrants in China: A nationwide cross-sectional study. J Glob Health 2022; 12:11015. [PMID: 36527361 PMCID: PMC9758700 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.12.11015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background African migrants in China face social, structural, and cultural barriers to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing with scarce information on their HIV testing behaviours. This study estimated the prevalence of HIV testing and its social and behavioural correlates to understand how to better provide HIV testing services for African migrants living in China. Methods We conducted a national cross-sectional survey among adult African migrants who lived in China for more than one month between January 19 to February 7, 2021. The survey was disseminated online through six African community organizations and via participant referrals. We collected data on HIV testing behaviours and history of HIV testing, social, and cultural factors and applied univariate and multivariable logistic regression to identify testing correlates. Results Among a total of 1305 participants, 72.9% (n = 951/1305) tested for HIV during their stay in China and yielded a self-reported HIV prevalence of 0.4% (n = 4/951). The most common reason for HIV testing was to comply with Chinese residence policy requirements (88.5%, n = 842/951); for not testing was "no need to be tested" (79.4%, n = 281/354). We found most African migrants have experienced low acculturation stress (54.5%, n = 750/1305), low social discrimination (65.6%, n = 856/1305), have a moderate stigma towards HIV (54.3%, n = 709/1305), and low community engagement around sexual health and HIV topics. In multivariable analysis, African migrants who were students (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.36, 95% CI = 2.40-4.71), living in student dormitories (aOR = 3.86, 95% CI = 1.51-9.84), received health services in China in past year (aOR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.25-2.23), had lifetime sexually transmitted infections (STI) testing (aOR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.23-3.10), had HIV testing before coming to China (aOR = 13.56, 95% CI = 9.36-19.65), and those engaged in community discussions of HIV and sexual health (aOR = 2.77, 95% CI = 1.31-5.83) were more likely to test for HIV in China. Conclusions Despite 73% of African migrants having tested for HIV in China, there are unmet needs and barriers identified in our study, such as language barriers. Access to HIV knowledge and testing services were the most important enablers for testing, including studentship, past STI/HIV testing, and community discussion on sexual health. Culturally appropriate and community-based outreach programs to provide information on HIV and testing venues for African migrants might be helpful to promote testing uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peizhen Zhao
- STD Control Department, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiayu Wang
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brian J Hall
- Center for Global Health Equity, New York University Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Kwame Sakyi
- Department of Public and Environmental Wellness, School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, Michigan, USA,Center for Learning and Childhood Development, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Adams Bodomo
- School of Liberal Arts, Xi'an University, Xi'an, China,African Studies Department, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Cheng Wang
- STD Control Department, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
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Sison OT, Baja ES, Bermudez ANC, Quilantang MIN, Dalmacion GV, Guevara EG, Garces-Bacsal RM, Hemingway C, Taegtmeyer M, Operario D, Biello KB. Association of anticipated HIV testing stigma and provider mistrust on preference for HIV self-testing among cisgender men who have sex with men in the Philippines. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2362. [PMID: 36527003 PMCID: PMC9756449 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14834-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND New HIV infections in the Philippines are increasing at an alarming rate. However, over three quarters of men who have sex with men (MSM) have never been tested for HIV. HIV self-testing (HIVST) may increase overall testing rates by removing barriers, particularly fear of stigmatization and mistrust of providers. This study aimed to determine if these factors are associated with preference for HIVST among Filipino cisgender MSM (cis-MSM), and whether there is an interaction between anticipated HIV testing stigma and provider mistrust on preference for HIVST. METHODS We conducted secondary analysis of a one-time survey of 803 cis-MSM who were recruited using purposive sampling from online MSM dating sites and MSM-themed bar locations in Metro Manila, Philippines. Summary statistics were computed to describe participant characteristics. Multivariable modified Poisson regression analyses were conducted to determine if anticipated HIV testing stigma and provider mistrust were associated with preference for HIVST among cis-MSM. Other variables such as age, education, monthly income, relationship status, HIV serostatus, and knowing where to get HIV testing were the minimal sufficient adjustment set in the analyses. RESULTS Average age of participants was 28.6 years (SD = 8.0); most had received college degrees (73%) and were employed (80%). Most respondents (81%) preferred facility-based testing, while 19% preferred HIVST. A high percentage of participants reported anticipated HIV testing stigma (66%) and provider mistrust (44%). Anticipated HIV testing stigma (aPR = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.01-2.25, p = 0.046) and provider mistrust (aPR = 1.49; 95% CI = 1.07-2.09, p = 0.020) were independently associated with a preference for HIVST. There was a positive, additive interaction between provider mistrust and anticipated HIV testing stigma on preference for HIVST (RERI = 1.13, 95% CI: 0.20-2.06; p = 0.017), indicating that the association between anticipated HIV testing stigma and preference for HIVST is greater among those with provider mistrust compared to those without provider mistrust. CONCLUSIONS HIVST should be offered as a supplement to traditional facility-based HIV testing services in the Philippines to expand testing and reach individuals who may not undergo testing due to anticipated HIV testing stigma and provider mistrust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T. Sison
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
- The Philippine Health Initiative for Research, Service, and Training, Brown University Global Health Initiative, Providence, RI USA
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Emmanuel S. Baja
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Amiel Nazer C. Bermudez
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
- The Philippine Health Initiative for Research, Service, and Training, Brown University Global Health Initiative, Providence, RI USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Ma. Irene N. Quilantang
- The Philippine Health Initiative for Research, Service, and Training, Brown University Global Health Initiative, Providence, RI USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Godofreda V. Dalmacion
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Ernest Genesis Guevara
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Rhoda Myra Garces-Bacsal
- Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 15551, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Charlotte Hemingway
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Palace Liverpool, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK
| | - Miriam Taegtmeyer
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Palace Liverpool, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK
- Tropical Infectious Disease Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, Liverpool, L7 8XP UK
| | - Don Operario
- The Philippine Health Initiative for Research, Service, and Training, Brown University Global Health Initiative, Providence, RI USA
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Katie B. Biello
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
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Oga E, Stockton MA, Stewart C, Kraemer J, Kimani J, Mbote D, Njuguna S, Nyblade L. Validating a measure of anticipated sex work-related stigma among male and female sex workers in Kenya. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3583-3595. [PMID: 35938397 PMCID: PMC10242293 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2105377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sex workers face different types of sex work-related stigma, which may include anticipated, perceived, experienced, or internalized stigma. Sex work stigma can discourage health care seeking and hamper STI and HIV prevention and treatment efforts. There is a paucity of validated sex work-related stigma measures, and this limits the ability to study the stigma associated with sex work. A cross-sectional survey was conducted that measured anticipated sex work-related stigma among male and female sex workers in Kenya (N = 729). We examined the construct validity and reliability of the anticipated stigma items to establish a conceptually and statistically valid scale. Our analysis supported a 15-item scale measuring five anticipated sex work stigma domains: gossip and verbal abuse from family; gossip and verbal abuse from healthcare workers; gossip and verbal abuse from friends and community; physical abuse; and exclusion. The scale demonstrated good face, content, and construct validity. Reliability was good for all subscales and the overall scale. The scale demonstrated good model fit statistics and good standardized factor loadings. The availability of valid and reliable stigma measures will enhance efforts to characterize and address stigma among sex workers and ultimately support the protection, health and well-being of this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Oga
- Center for Applied Public Health Research, RTI International, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Melissa A. Stockton
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Psychiatry, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Christin Stewart
- Global Health Division, International Development Group, RTI International, Washington DC, USA
| | - John Kraemer
- Global Health Division, International Development Group, RTI International, Washington DC, USA
- Department of Health Systems Administration, Georgetown University, Washington DC, USA
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi; Kenya
| | - David Mbote
- Kuria Foundation for Social Enterprise, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Laura Nyblade
- Global Health Division, International Development Group, RTI International, Washington DC, USA
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Dauria E, Skipalska H, Gopalakrishnan L, Savenko O, Sabadash L, Tolou-Shams M, Flanigan T, Navario P, Castillo TP. Exploratory qualitative study examining acceptability of strategies to improve access to substance use treatment and HIV prevention services for young adults on probation in Ukraine. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e061909. [PMID: 36418138 PMCID: PMC9685251 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adults <30 years' of age experience elevated HIV-rates in Ukraine. Young adults (YA) involved in the criminal justice system (CJS) are at an increased HIV-risk given elevated rates of substance use, engagement in high-risk sexual behaviour and insufficient healthcare access. The objective of this exploratory study was to investigate the acceptability of strategies to refer and link CJS-involved YA to HIV-prevention and substance use treatment services from CJS settings. DESIGN We conducted qualitative individual interviews with CJS-involved YA (18-24 years), and CJS stakeholders. Interviews were guided by the Social Ecological Model. Interviews with YA explored substance use and sexual behaviour, and acceptability of strategies to link YA to HIV-prevention and substance use treatment services from CJS. Stakeholder interviews explored system practices addressing HIV-prevention and substance use and addiction. Data were analysed using Inductive Thematic Analysis. SETTING Data were collected in three locales, prior to the 2022 Russian-Ukrainian conflict. PARTICIPANTS Thirty YA and 20 stakeholders. RESULTS Most YA were men, reported recent injection drug use and were M age=23 years. YA were receptive to linkage to HIV-prevention services from CJS; this was shaped by self-perceived HIV-risk and lack of access to HIV-prevention services. YA were less receptive to being referred to substance use treatment services, citing a lack of self-perceived need and mistrust in treatment efficacy. Stakeholders identified multilevel contextual factors shaping acceptability of HIV-prevention and substance use treatment from CJS (eg, stigma). CONCLUSIONS Findings should be reviewed as a historical record of the pre-conflict context. In that context, we identified strategies that may have been used to help curtail the transmission of HIV in a population most-at-risk, including CJS-involved YA. This study demonstrates that improving access to substance use treatment and HIV-prevention services via CJS linkage were acceptable if provided in the right conditions (eg, low or no-cost, confidential).
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Dauria
- Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | | | - Marina Tolou-Shams
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Peter Navario
- School of Public Health, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- HealthRight International, New York, New York, USA
| | - Theresa P Castillo
- School of Public Health, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- HealthRight International, New York, New York, USA
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Sun HT, Fan XR, Gu YZ, Lu YH, Qiu JL, Yang QL, Li JH, Gu J, Hao C. WeChat-based HIV E-report, A New Manner for HIV Serostatus Request and Disclosure and Their Associated Factors Among Men Who Have Sex with Men: Prospective Subgroup Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trails (Preprint). JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 11:e44513. [PMID: 37155223 DOI: 10.2196/44513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Requesting and disclosing HIV serostatus is associated with a reduction in HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM). However, the reliability of common methods for HIV serostatus requests and disclosure is unsatisfactory. Validated approaches for requesting and disclosing HIV serostatus are necessary. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the use of the HIV e-report as authentic evidence of HIV serostatus among the MSM community in Guangzhou, China. Additionally, the study aimed to explore its correlates with HIV serostatus requesting and disclosure receiving behavior. METHODS This study is a subgroup analysis of a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) that enrolled 357 participants during the first year. Participants in this RCT were recruited from the WeChat-based HIV testing service miniprogram developed by Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China. Participants completed web-based questionnaires at baseline and at the month 3 follow-up, which covered sociodemographic characteristics, HIV-related information, HIV serostatus requests, HIV serostatus disclosure receiving, and HIV e-report usage. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used for data analysis. RESULTS The WeChat-based HIV e-report was available in Guangzhou when the RCT project started. At the month 3 follow-up, 32.2% (115/357) of participants had their own HIV e-reports, and 37.8% (135/357) of them had received others' HIV e-reports. For HIV serostatus requests, 13.1% (27/205) and 10.5% (16/153) of participants started to use HIV e-reports to ask the HIV serostatus of regular and casual male sex partners, respectively. Of the regular and casual male sex partners, 27.3% (42/154) and 16.5% (18/109), respectively, chose HIV e-reports to disclose HIV serostatus. Compared to MSM who did not have HIV e-reports, those who said, "I had had my own HIV e-report(s) but hadn't sent to others" (multivariate odds ratio 2.71, 95% CI 1.19-6.86; P=.02) and "I had had my own HIV e-reports and had sent to others" (multivariate odds ratio 2.67, 95% CI 1.07-7.73; P=.048) were more likely to request HIV serostatus from their partners. Whereas no factor was associated with HIV serostatus disclosure received from partners. CONCLUSIONS The HIV e-report has been accepted by the MSM community in Guangzhou and could be applied as a new optional way for HIV serostatus request and disclosure. This innovative intervention could be effective in promoting infectious disease serostatus disclosure among the related high-risk population. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03984136; https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT03984136. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s12879-021-06484-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Tong Sun
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat‑Sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Ru Fan
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat‑Sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Zhou Gu
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Heng Lu
- Lingnan Community Support Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Ling Qiu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat‑Sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing-Ling Yang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat‑Sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing-Hua Li
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat‑Sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Gu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat‑Sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun Hao
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat‑Sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Kobrak P, Remien RH, Myers JE, Salcuni P, Edelstein Z, Tsoi B, Sandfort T. Motivations and Barriers to Routine HIV Testing Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in New York City. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3563-3575. [PMID: 35536518 PMCID: PMC9550690 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03679-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In-depth qualitative interviews explored the experiences and understandings of men 18-39 years old who have sex with men that could facilitate or prevent HIV testing and routine HIV testing. For many men who tested frequently, testing and routine testing were motivated by awareness of the benefit of prompt treatment; public health and provider encouragement to test periodically; responsibility towards sexual partners; and wanting to share a recent HIV-negative test result when seeking sex online. For some men, any testing was impeded by anxiety around possible HIV diagnosis that made testing a stressful occasion that required time and energy to prepare for. This anxiety was often compounded by stigma related to sex between men, having condomless sex, or having HIV. Routine testing could be further stigmatized as some men felt judged by testing providers or partners if they asked for a test or said they tested frequently. We describe efforts to promote testing and routine testing by countering fear and stigma associated with HIV and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kobrak
- New York City Health Department, HIV Prevention Program, 42-09 28 Street, Long Island City, NY, 11101, USA.
| | - Robert H Remien
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Paul Salcuni
- Relevant Healthcare Technologies, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zoe Edelstein
- New York City Health Department, HIV Prevention Program, 42-09 28 Street, Long Island City, NY, 11101, USA
| | - Benjamin Tsoi
- New York City Health Department, HIV Prevention Program, 42-09 28 Street, Long Island City, NY, 11101, USA
| | - Theodorus Sandfort
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Distribution of HIV Self-tests by Men Who have Sex with Men (MSM) to Social Network Associates. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:1716-1725. [PMID: 36318431 PMCID: PMC9628448 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03903-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Internet-recruited gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) were offered HIV self-tests (HIVSTs) after completing baseline, 3-, 6-, and 9-month follow-up surveys. The surveys asked about the use and distribution of these HIVSTs. Among 995 who reported on their distribution of HIVSTs, 667 (67.0%) distributed HIVSTs to their social network associates (SNAs), which resulted in 34 newly identified HIV infections among 2301 SNAs (1.5%). The main reasons participants reported not distributing HIVSTs included: wanting to use the HIVSTs themselves (74.9%); thinking that their SNAs would get angry or upset if offered HIVSTs (12.5%); or not knowing that they could give the HIVSTs away (11.3%). Self-testing programs can provide multiple HIVSTs and encourage the distribution of HIVST by MSM to their SNAs to increase awareness of HIV status among persons disproportionately affected by HIV.
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Weinstein ER, Lozano A, Jones MA, Safren SA, Harkness A. Factors Associated with Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Awareness Among Latino Sexual Minority Men in South Florida. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:405-412. [PMID: 36286577 PMCID: PMC9595620 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite their efficacy, biomedical HIV prevention tools such as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have been insufficiently scaled up and disseminated, especially among marginalized subgroups that face substantial HIV disparities. Given the minimal literature available on PEP among Latino sexual minority men (LSMM), this cross-sectional secondary analysis explored factors associated with PEP awareness among a group of LSMM living in South Florida, a US HIV epicenter. The parent study examined patterns of engagement in PrEP and behavioral health treatment services among LSMM (N = 290). The current secondary analysis (N = 243) identified factors associated with PEP awareness using three methods: stochastic search variable selection, participatory data science, and literature review-before being modeled using linear regression. Most participants (67.5%) reported having little to no awareness about PEP before initiating our study. Simple linear regression models suggested that higher PrEP knowledge (B = 0.17, SE = 0.02, p < 0.001), HIV knowledge (B = 0.15, SE = 0.04, p < 0.001), PrEP self-efficacy (B = 0.37, SE = 0.13, p < 0.05), and high perceived community norms for HIV testing (B = 0.29, SE = 0.14, p < 0.05) were each associated with LSMM's greater PEP awareness, while identity affirmation was associated with less PEP awareness (B = -0.13, SE = 0.05, p < 0.01). Results suggest the utility of our three-pronged variable selection approach and address gaps in PEP awareness and use among LSMM living in a US HIV epicenter to support Ending the HIV Epidemic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alyssa Lozano
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Megan A. Jones
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Steven A. Safren
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Audrey Harkness
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
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The Current Challenges Affecting the Quality of Care of HIV/AIDS in the Middle East: Perspectives from Local Experts and Future Directions. J Infect Public Health 2022; 15:1508-1513. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Lacombe‐Duncan A, Kattari L, Kattari SK, Scheim AI, Alexander F, Yonce S, Misiolek BA. HIV testing among transgender and nonbinary persons in Michigan, United States: results of a community-based survey. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25 Suppl 5:e25972. [PMID: 36225152 PMCID: PMC9557000 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transgender (trans) and nonbinary people (TNB) are disproportionately impacted by HIV. HIV testing is critical to engage TNB people in HIV prevention and care. Yet, scant literature has examined social and structural factors associated with HIV testing among TNB people of diverse genders and in geographies with potentially lower trans acceptance. We: (1) characterized the prevalence of never having been tested for HIV; and (2) identified associated factors, among TNB people in Michigan, United States. METHODS Data were from a community-based participatory cross-sectional survey (n = 539 sexually experienced TNB people). The prevalence of never having had an HIV test was reported overall and compared across socio-demographic, clinical, social and structural factors using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Approximately one-quarter (26.2%) of participants had never had an HIV test (20.8% transfeminine; 30.0% transmasculine; 17.8% nonbinary assigned male at-birth; and 32.0% nonbinary assigned female at-birth). In a multivariable socio-demographic model, older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for 1-year increase: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.96, p<0.001) and Black/African American race (vs. White) (aOR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.86, p<0.05) were associated with increased odds of HIV testing (aORs for never testing). In separate multivariable models controlling for socio-demographics, ever experiencing sexual violence (aOR: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.67, p<0.001), not accessed sexual/reproductive healthcare in the past 12 months (aOR: 4.46, 95% CI: 2.68, 7.43, p<0.001) and reporting a very/somewhat inclusive primary care provider (PCP) (aOR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.49, p<0.001) were associated with HIV testing (aORs for never testing). CONCLUSIONS Findings contribute to scant literature about gender-based differences in HIV testing inclusive of transmasculine and nonbinary people. Lack of statistically significant gender differences suggests that broad TNB interventions may be warranted. These could include training healthcare providers in trans-inclusive practices with sexual violence survivors and PCPs in trans-inclusive HIV prevention and care. Findings showing Black participants were less likely to have never had an HIV test suggest the promise of culturally tailored services, though further investigation is needed. Findings identify social and structural factors associated with HIV testing and can inform multi-level interventions to increase TNB person's HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leonardo Kattari
- School of Social Work, Michigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
| | - Shanna K. Kattari
- School of Social Work, University of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
- Department of Women's and Gender Studies, University of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Ayden I. Scheim
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Flyn Alexander
- School of Social Work, University of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Sophie Yonce
- Lyman Briggs College, Michigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
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Olakunde BO, Pharr JR, Adeyinka DA, Conserve DF. Nonuptake of HIV Testing Among Transgender Populations in the United States: Results from the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey. Transgend Health 2022; 7:430-439. [PMID: 36644483 PMCID: PMC9829162 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2020.0141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose In this study, we examined the nonuptake of HIV testing and the main reasons for never testing among transgender populations. Methods Data on 26,927 respondents from the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey were analyzed in this study. The main reasons for never testing were categorized as low risk perception; access related; fear or HIV-related stigma; and others. We performed weighted descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analyses, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and sexual orientation. Results Forty-five percent of the respondents had never tested for HIV. Trans women (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.07-1.25) and assigned female at birth genderqueer/nonbinary individuals (AFAB GQ/NB) (aOR=1.3, 95% CI=1.16-1.35) had significantly higher odds of reporting never testing for HIV compared with trans men. The most reported reason for never testing was low risk perception (87%). AFAB GQ/NB (aOR=1.4, 95% CI=1.22-1.66) had significantly higher odds of reporting low risk perception as the main reason for never testing for HIV relative to trans men. AFAB GQ/NB were less likely to report access related as the main reason for never testing (aOR=0.8, 95% CI=0.56-0.95). The odds of trans women and assigned male at birth GQ/NB individuals reporting fear or HIV-related stigma as the main reason for never testing were 1.7 (95% CI=1.13-2.55) and 2.8 (95% CI=1.69-4.70) times that of trans men. Both trans women (aOR=0.8, 95% CI=0.65-0.97) and AFAB GQ/NB (aOR=0.7, 95% CI=0.60-0.88) had lower odds of reporting others. The main reasons for never testing also varied by sociodemographic factors, including age, educational attainment, race/ethnicity, employment status, poverty, and sexual orientation. Conclusions HIV testing is suboptimal among transgender populations. Our findings also suggest that barriers to HIV testing vary by transgender populations, thus interventions for improved uptake should be population specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babayemi O. Olakunde
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
| | - Jennifer R. Pharr
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
| | - Daniel A. Adeyinka
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Donaldson F. Conserve
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Delabre RM, Moussa AB, Villes V, Elkhammas M, Ouarsas L, Castro Rojas Castro D, Karkouri M. Fear of stigma from health professionals and family/neighbours and healthcare avoidance among PLHIV in Morocco: results from the Stigma Index survey Morocco. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1705. [PMID: 36076214 PMCID: PMC9454179 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14010-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Enacted or anticipated stigma among people living with HIV (PLHIV) can negatively impact healthcare engagement. We identified factors associated with having avoided HIV health services for fear of stigma among PLHIV in Morocco. Methods The Stigma Index survey was conducted in Morocco in March-June 2016. Factors associated with avoiding HIV testing and treatment services for fear of stigma by (A) health personnel or family/neighbours and (B) health personnel and family/neighbours compared to people who did not avoid health services for fear of stigma from either of the two sources were assessed using multinomial logistic regression models. Results Among 583 respondents, 280 (48.0%) were women and median number of years living with HIV was 5[IQR:2–7]. Half of the respondents reported avoiding health services for fear of stigma by health personnel and/or family/neighbours: (A) n = 228, 39.1% and (B) n = 68, 11.7%. After adjustment on perceived health status, not having had easy access to antiretroviral treatment ((A) aRR [95% CI] = 1.76[1.16; 2.68]; (B) 2.18[1.11; 4.27]), discrimination by PLHIV ((A) 1.87[1.12; 3.13]; (B) 3.35[1.63; 6.88]) and exclusion from social activities ((A) 1.70[1.10; 2.61]; (B) 2.63[1.39; 5.00]) were associated with having avoided health services for fear of stigma by health personnel or/and family/neighbours. Being female (2.85[1.48; 5.47]), not having been referred for an HIV test for suspected symptoms 3.47[1.67; 7.22], having discussed sexual/reproductive health with a health professional (4.56[2.38; 8.71]), and not having the feeling to influence decisions on local projects for PLHIV (3.47[1.37; 7.83], were associated with having avoided health services for fear of stigma by both sources. Conclusion Results suggest a cumulative effect of fear of stigma and discrimination among PLHIV in Morocco. PLHIV who have experienced discrimination may seek to avoid similar situations at the expense of their health. These results should inform multi-level interventions and broader advocacy efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amal Ben Moussa
- Coalition PLUS, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France. .,Association de Lutte Contre le Sida, Casablanca, Morocco.
| | - Virginie Villes
- Coalition PLUS, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - Mohammed Elkhammas
- Coalition PLUS, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France.,Association de Lutte Contre le Sida, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Lahoucine Ouarsas
- Coalition PLUS, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France.,Association de Lutte Contre le Sida, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Daniela Castro Rojas Castro
- Coalition PLUS, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France.,Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Coalition PLUS, Community-Based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France.,Association de Lutte Contre le Sida, Casablanca, Morocco
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Budhwani H, Paulino-Ramírez R, Waters J, Bond CL, Ruiz I, Long DM, Varas-Díaz N, Naar S, Nyblade L, Turan JM. Adapting and pilot testing an HIV and intersectional stigma reducing intervention for Dominican Republic healthcare contexts: Protocol for translational research. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2022; 29:100980. [PMID: 36060154 PMCID: PMC9434029 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2022.100980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This protocol details the adaptation and pilot testing of the Finding Respect and Ending Stigma around HIV (FRESH) intervention in Dominican Republic. FRESH is a healthcare setting stigma-reduction intervention designed to reduce stigmas affecting people living with HIV (PLHIV), focusing on HIV and intersectional stigmas experienced by sexual and gender minority (SGM) people living with HIV. After the successful adaptation of the FRESH intervention, it will be pilot-tested through the conduct of a pilot stepped wedge cluster randomized controlled trial. Methods Three aims are included in this study; Aim 1 includes exploratory qualitative assessment, specifically the conduct four focus groups with men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV (n = 24-32) and in-depth interviews with transgender women living with HIV to explore their experiences with stigma in clinics (n = 9-12). In-depth interviews will also be held with HIV healthcare workers to elucidate their perceptions and behaviors towards their SGM clients (n = 9-12). In Aim 2, informed by Aim 1 data, we will use the sequential phases of the ADAPT-ITT framework to iteratively adapt the FRESH intervention for the Dominican Republic. In Aim 3, the adapted intervention will be pilot-tested via a cluster stepped wedge randomized controlled trial to assess feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and study protocols. Conclusions If this pilot trial is successful, next steps will include testing the adapted intervention across Dominican Republic or in similar Spanish-speaking Caribbean nations in a larger trial to assess effectiveness in reducing stigma in clinical settings towards PLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henna Budhwani
- Florida State University, College of Nursing, Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, Tallahassee, FL, United States
- Corresponding author. Florida State University, College of Nursing, Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, 2010 Levy Avenue, Building B, Suite 3600, Tallahassee, FL, 32306, United States.
| | | | - John Waters
- Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC), Kingston, Jamaica
| | - Christyenne L. Bond
- Florida State University, College of Nursing, Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Ingrid Ruiz
- Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE), Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Dustin M. Long
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, School of Public Health, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Nelson Varas-Díaz
- Florida International University, Department of Global and Sociocultural Studies, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sylvie Naar
- Florida State University, Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Laura Nyblade
- Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Janet M. Turan
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, School of Public Health, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Koç University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Liu Y, Hawkins M, Osman A, Zhang C. Assessing the Prevalence and Determinants of Exposure-Influenced HIV Testing among a Sample of Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis-Naïve Young Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7080146. [PMID: 35893655 PMCID: PMC9331231 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7080146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-initiated Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing after potential sexual exposure to HIV (i.e., exposure-influenced HIV testing) has high utility in detecting individuals with the highest probabilities of HIV seroconversion. We conducted a cross-sectional study among a sample of sexually active, pre/post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP)-naïve young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in two US cities to assess the determinants (e.g., demographic, psychosocial, sexual, substance use, and HIV prevention characteristics) of exposure-influenced HIV testing (never/rarely vs. mostly/always) in their lifetime. Of 261 YMSM, only 26.5% reported mostly/always seeking exposure-influenced prior to the study. Multivariable analyses showed that younger age, sexual orientation non-disclosure, perceived HIV stigma, internalized homophobia, lower general resilience, and lower social support were associated with a lower likelihood of mostly/always seeking exposure-influenced HIV testing. YMSM who never/rarely sought exposure-influenced HIV testing were more likely to use recreational drugs before sex, binge alcohol, and have group sex; while less likely to be aware of PrEP, test for sexually transmitted infections, or use condoms compared to those mostly/always seeking exposure-influenced HIV testing. Exposure-influenced HIV testing is suboptimal among YMSM with elevated risk for HIV. Our findings provide important implications for designing targeted interventions to promote exposure-influenced HIV testing among high-risk YMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, 256 Crittenden Blvd., Ste. 3305, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-585-276-3562
| | - Mary Hawkins
- Nashville Council on AIDS, Resources, Education and Support (CARES), Nashville, TN 37204, USA; (M.H.); (A.O.)
| | - Amna Osman
- Nashville Council on AIDS, Resources, Education and Support (CARES), Nashville, TN 37204, USA; (M.H.); (A.O.)
| | - Chen Zhang
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA;
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Skerritt L, Kaida A, Savoie É, Sánchez M, Sarmiento I, O’Brien N, Burchell AN, Bartlett G, Boucoiran I, Kestler M, Rouleau D, Loutfy M, de Pokomandy A. Factors and Priorities Influencing Satisfaction with Care among Women Living with HIV in Canada: A Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping Study. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12071079. [PMID: 35887575 PMCID: PMC9320512 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12071079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Engagement along the HIV care cascade in Canada is lower among women compared to men. We used Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping (FCM), a participatory research method, to identify factors influencing satisfaction with HIV care, their causal pathways, and relative importance from the perspective of women living with HIV. Building from a map of factors derived from a mixed-studies review of the literature, 23 women living with HIV in Canada elaborated ten categories influencing their satisfaction with HIV care. The most central and influential category was “feeling safe and supported by clinics and healthcare providers”, followed by “accessible and coordinated services” and “healthcare provider expertise”. Participants identified factors that captured gendered social and health considerations not previously specified in the literature. These categories included “healthcare that considers women’s unique care needs and social contexts”, “gynecologic and pregnancy care”, and “family and partners included in care.” The findings contribute to our understanding of how gender shapes care needs and priorities among women living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lashanda Skerritt
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1, Canada; (L.S.); (I.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada; (A.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Édénia Savoie
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada;
| | - Margarite Sánchez
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada; (A.K.); (M.S.)
- Viva Women, Vancouver, BC V5Z 0C9, Canada
| | - Iván Sarmiento
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1, Canada; (L.S.); (I.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Nadia O’Brien
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada; (N.O.); (D.R.)
| | - Ann N. Burchell
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada;
| | - Gillian Bartlett
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1, Canada; (L.S.); (I.S.); (G.B.)
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Isabelle Boucoiran
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada;
| | | | - Danielle Rouleau
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada; (N.O.); (D.R.)
| | - Mona Loutfy
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Canada;
| | - Alexandra de Pokomandy
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1, Canada; (L.S.); (I.S.); (G.B.)
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada;
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-514-843-2090
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49
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Lutete P, Matthews DW, Sabounchi NS, Paige MQ, Lounsbury DW, Rodriguez N, Echevarria N, Usher D, Walker JJ, Dickerson A, Hillesheim J, Frye V. Intersectional Stigma and Prevention Among Gay, Bisexual, and Same Gender-Loving Men in New York City, 2020: System Dynamics Models. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:S444-S451. [PMID: 35763732 PMCID: PMC9241454 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.306725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. To create causal loop diagrams that characterize intersectional stigma experiences among Black, gay, bisexual, same gender-loving, and other men who have sex with men and to identify intervention targets to reduce stigma and increase testing and prevention access. Methods. Between January and July 2020, we conducted focus groups and in-depth interviews with 80 expert informants in New York City, which were transcribed, coded, and analyzed. These qualitative insights were developed iteratively, visualized, and validated in a causal loop diagram (CLD) using Vensim software. Results. The CLD revealed 3 key feedback loops-medical mistrust and HIV transmission, serosorting and marginalization of Black and gay individuals, and family support and internalized homophobia-that contribute to intersectional HIV and related stigmas, homophobia, and systemic racism. On the basis of these results, we designed 2 novel intervention components to integrate into an existing community-level anti-HIV stigma and homophobia intervention. Conclusions. HIV stigma, systemic racism, and homophobia work via feedback loops to reduce access to and uptake of HIV testing, prevention, and treatment. Public Health Implications. The CLD method yielded unique insights into reciprocal feedback structures that, if broken, could interrupt stigmatization and discrimination cycles that impede testing and prevention uptake. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(S4):S444-S451. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.306725).
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Lutete
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - David W Matthews
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Nasim S Sabounchi
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Mark Q Paige
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - David W Lounsbury
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Noah Rodriguez
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Natalie Echevarria
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - DaShawn Usher
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Julian J Walker
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Alexis Dickerson
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Joseph Hillesheim
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Victoria Frye
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
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50
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Lian J, Chen X, Su X, Si M, Dai Z, Fu J, Yu F, Mi G, Liu Y. HIV testing and related factors among 50 years and older MSM in China: results from a cross-sectional study. AIDS Care 2022; 35:608-613. [PMID: 35392734 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2060493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTHIV prevalence has increased continuously, and the age groups most afflicted by the epidemic have also shifted to people aged above 50 years. Informed by the theory of HBM, we aimed to investigate related factors associated with regular HIV testing behavior. Cross-sectional data were collected using online questionnaire from geosocial networking (GSN) mobile application (apps) for MSM during May 2020 (N = 1259). Data were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Around 62.0% (n = 781) had received HIV testing before. Participants being divorced/widowed (AOR = 1.5,95%CI:1.1-2.0), being aware of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge (AOR = 1.8,95%CI:1.4-2.3), having disclosed sexual orientation (AOR = 1.9,95%CI:1.5-2.5), ever had sexually transmitted infections symptoms (STIs)before (AOR = 2.4,95%CI:1.8-3.2), having had≥2 sexual partners (AOR = 1.8,95%CI:1.4-2.3) and with high self-efficacy (AOR = 1.1,95%CI:1.0-1.1) were more likely to receive HIV testing. Findings suggest that many Chinses MSM aged 50 and above have not been tested for HIV. Interventions for promoting HIV testing should focus on expanding scales of HIV/STIs screening, providing HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, creating a more supportive social environment and improving self-efficacy of HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Lian
- School of Health Policy and Management, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyou Su
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingyu Si
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenwei Dai
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaqi Fu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Public Welfare, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guodong Mi
- Danlan Public Welfare, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanli Liu
- School of Health Policy and Management, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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