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Masango BZ, Ferrandiz-Mont D, Chiao C. Voluntary medical male circumcision and educational gradient in relation to HIV infection among sexually active adult men in Eswatini: evidence from the national surveys in 2006-2007 and 2016. Int Health 2024; 16:208-218. [PMID: 37702181 PMCID: PMC10911536 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihad070] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To address knowledge gaps, this study examined social determinants, such as education attainment and HIV prevention, among sexually active men (SAM), with a focus on voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC). METHODS Two nationally representative surveys, the Eswatini Demographic and Health Survey 2006 and the Eswatini HIV Incidence Measurement Survey 2016, were used to estimate whether or not VMMC at the individual and community levels contributes to HIV disparities to any meaningful extent. Multilevel logistic regression models further explored the educational gradient in HIV infection for 2006-2007 and 2016 with regard to VMMC among SAM, while adjusting for household poverty, sexual practices and individual characteristics. RESULTS Among SAM with tertiary education, HIV prevalence declined from 25.0% in 2006-2007 to 10.5% in 2016. A 51% decrease in HIV prevalence was found to be associated with an increase in VMMC (adjusted odds ratio 0.49; 95% CI 0.40 to 0.60). Compared with SAM with tertiary education, those who had a lower level of education were more likely to have HIV infection and this education gradient effect had become particularly profound in 2016. CONCLUSIONS VMMC began to be promoted in 2008 in Eswatini and results suggest its effect, along with the education attainment effect, significantly resulted in a meaningful reduction in HIV prevalence among SAM by 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Ferrandiz-Mont
- Public Health Surveillance and Emergency Response Department of Vallès Occidental and Vallès Oriental, Public Health Agency of Catalonia, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona 08173, Spain
| | - Chi Chiao
- Institute of Health and Welfare Policy, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan, ROC
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan, ROC
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Conrad S, Gant Kanegusuku A, Conklin SE. Taking a step back from testing: Preanalytical considerations in molecular infectious disease diagnostics. Clin Biochem 2023; 115:22-32. [PMID: 36495954 PMCID: PMC9729171 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2022.12.003] [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: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies evaluating the preanalytical factors that impact the outcome of nucleic-acid based methods for the confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 have illuminated the importance of identifying variables that promoted accurate testing, while using scarce resources efficiently. The majority of laboratory errors occur in the preanalytical phase. While there are many resources identifying and describing mechanisms for main laboratory testing on automated platforms, there are fewer comprehensive resources for understanding important preanalytical and environmental factors that affect accurate molecular diagnostic testing of infectious diseases. This review identifies evidence-based factors that have been documented to impact the outcome of nucleic acid-based molecular techniques for the diagnosis of infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Conrad
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Steven E Conklin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Anatomic & Clinical Pathology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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Gurski K, Hoffman K. Staged HIV transmission and treatment in a dynamic model with long-term partnerships. J Math Biol 2023; 86:74. [PMID: 37052718 PMCID: PMC10100640 DOI: 10.1007/s00285-023-01885-w] [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: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
The transmission dynamics of HIV are closely tied to the duration and overlap of sexual partnerships. We develop an autonomous population model that can account for the possibilities of an infection from either a casual sexual partner or a long-term partner who was either infected at the start of the partnership or has been newly infected since the onset of the partnership. The impact of the long-term partnerships on the rate of infection is captured by calculating the expected values of the rate of infection from these extended contacts. The model includes three stages of infectiousness: acute, chronic, and virally suppressed. We calculate HIV incidence and the fraction of new infections attributed to casual contacts and long-term partnerships allowing for variability in condom usage, the effect of achieving and maintaining viral suppression, and early intervention by beginning HAART during the acute phase of infection. We present our results using data on MSM HIV transmission from the CDC in the U.S. While the acute stage is the most infectious, the majority of the new infections will be transmitted by long-term partners in the chronic stage when condom use is infrequent as is common in long-term relationships. Time series analysis of the solution, as well as parameter sensitivity analysis, are used to determine effective intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Gurski
- Department of Mathematics, Howard University, Washington, DC, 20059, USA.
| | - Kathleen Hoffman
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, 21250, USA.
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Nanditha NGA, Dong X, Tafessu HM, Wang L, Lu M, Barrios R, Montaner JSG, Lima VD. A province-wide HIV initiative to accelerate initiation of treatment-as-prevention and virologic suppression in British Columbia, Canada: a population-based cohort study. CMAJ Open 2022; 10:E27-E34. [PMID: 35042692 PMCID: PMC8920539 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20210093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2010, HIV treatment as prevention (TasP), encompassing widespread HIV testing and immediate initiation of free antiretroviral treatment (ART), was piloted under the Seek and Treat for Optimal Prevention of HIV/AIDS initiative (STOP) in British Columbia, Canada. We compared the time from HIV diagnosis to treatment initiation, and from treatment initiation to first virologic suppression, before (2005-2009) and after (2010-2016) the implementation of STOP. METHODS In this population-based cohort study, we used longitudinal data of all people living with an HIV diagnosis in BC from 1996 to 2017. We included those aged 18 years or older who had never received ART and had received an HIV diagnosis in the 2005-2016 period. We defined the virologic suppression date as the first date of at least 2 consecutive test results within 4 months with a viral load of less than 200 copies/mL. Negative binomial regression models assessed the effect of STOP on the time to ART initiation and suppression, adjusting for confounders. All p values were 2-sided, and we set the significance level at 0.05. RESULTS Participants who received an HIV diagnosis before STOP (n = 1601) were statistically different from those with a diagnosis after STOP (n = 1700); 81% versus 84% were men (p = 0.0187), 30% versus 15% had ever injected drugs (p < 0.0001), and 27% versus 49% had 350 CD4 cells/μL or more at diagnosis (p < 0.0001). The STOP initiative was associated with a 64% shorter time from diagnosis to treatment (adjusted mean ratio 0.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34-0.39) and a 21% shorter time from treatment to suppression (adjusted mean ratio 0.79, 95% CI 0.73-0.85). INTERPRETATION In a population with universal health coverage, a TasP intervention was associated with shorter times from HIV diagnosis to treatment initiation, and from treatment initiation to viral suppression. Our results show accelerating progress toward the United Nations' 90-90-90 target of people with HIV who have a diagnosis, those who are on antiretroviral therapy and those who are virologically suppressed, and support the global expansion of TasP to accelerate the control of HIV/AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Gusti Ayu Nanditha
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (Nanditha, Dong, Tafessu, Wang, Lu, Barrios, Montaner, Lima); Faculty of Medicine (Nanditha, Montaner, Lima), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Xinzhe Dong
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (Nanditha, Dong, Tafessu, Wang, Lu, Barrios, Montaner, Lima); Faculty of Medicine (Nanditha, Montaner, Lima), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Hiwot M Tafessu
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (Nanditha, Dong, Tafessu, Wang, Lu, Barrios, Montaner, Lima); Faculty of Medicine (Nanditha, Montaner, Lima), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Lu Wang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (Nanditha, Dong, Tafessu, Wang, Lu, Barrios, Montaner, Lima); Faculty of Medicine (Nanditha, Montaner, Lima), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Michelle Lu
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (Nanditha, Dong, Tafessu, Wang, Lu, Barrios, Montaner, Lima); Faculty of Medicine (Nanditha, Montaner, Lima), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Rolando Barrios
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (Nanditha, Dong, Tafessu, Wang, Lu, Barrios, Montaner, Lima); Faculty of Medicine (Nanditha, Montaner, Lima), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Julio S G Montaner
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (Nanditha, Dong, Tafessu, Wang, Lu, Barrios, Montaner, Lima); Faculty of Medicine (Nanditha, Montaner, Lima), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Viviane D Lima
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (Nanditha, Dong, Tafessu, Wang, Lu, Barrios, Montaner, Lima); Faculty of Medicine (Nanditha, Montaner, Lima), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
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Saz J, Dalmau-Bueno A, Meulbroek M, Pujol F, Coll J, Herraiz-Tomey Á, Pérez F, Marazzi G, Taboada H, Culqui DR, Caylà JA. Use of fourth-generation rapid combined antigen and antibody diagnostic tests for the detection of acute HIV infection in a community centre for men who have sex with men, between 2016 and 2019. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255065. [PMID: 34314468 PMCID: PMC8315512 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the use of fourth-generation rapid diagnostic tests in identifying acute infection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Methods BCN Checkpoint promotes sexual health among men who have sex with men (MSM), with a focus on diagnosing HIV early, initiating combined antiretroviral treatment (cART) promptly, and recommending regular repeat testing for those who have tested negative. This cross-sectional study included all test results obtained at the centre between 25 March 2016 and 24 March 2019. The Alere™ HIV Combo (now rebranded to Determine™ HIV Ultra, from Abbott) was used to detect p24 antigen (p24 Ag) and/or immunoglobulin M (IgM) and G (IgG) antibodies to HIV-1/HIV-2 (HIV Ab). Rapid polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmatory testing and Western blot (WB) were performed for clients with a positive rapid test result. Confirmed HIV cases were promptly referred to the HIV unit for care and cART prescription. Results A total of 12,961 clients attended BCN Checkpoint during the study and 27,298 rapid tests were performed. 450 tests were found to be reactive, of which 430 confirmed as HIV-positive, representing a prevalence of 3.32%. Four confirmed cases (0.93%) were detected as “p24 Ag only”, nine (2.09%) as “both p24 and HIV Ab” and 417 (96.98%) as “HIV Ab only”. The “p24 Ag only” group had a 1-log higher viral load than the other groups and initiated treatment on the following working day. Overall, there were 20 false-positive results (0.07% and 4.44% of total and reactive tests, respectively), of which 10 positive for “p24 Ag only” and 10 for “HIV Ab only”. Conclusions Four Acute HIV Infections (AHI), with very high viral loads, have been detected with the “p24 Ag only” while the HIV Ab were still absent. Referral to the HIV unit and initiation of cART on the following working day contributed to improving persons’ health and to reduce HIV transmission chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Saz
- Projecte dels NOMS-Hispanosida, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Ferran Pujol
- Projecte dels NOMS-Hispanosida, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Coll
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute, Fight AIDS and Infectious Diseases Foundation, Badalona, Spain
| | | | - Félix Pérez
- Projecte dels NOMS-Hispanosida, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Dante R. Culqui
- Grupo Pulso (a company of Evidenze Group), Sant Cugat del Vallés, Spain
- Isabel Roig-Blauclinic Socio-Sanitary Centre, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan A. Caylà
- Tuberculosis Research Unit of Barcelona (UITB) Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
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Jiang Y, Su S, Borné Y. A meta-analysis of the efficacy of HAART on HIV transmission and its impact on sexual risk behaviours among men who have sex with men. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1075. [PMID: 31974510 PMCID: PMC6978405 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56530-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence showed preventive impacts of the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmission amomg heterosexual population, however, that is of deficit among men who have sex with men (MSM). The aim was to systematically examine the efficacy of HAART on HIV transmission and the association between the HAART initiation and unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) in MSM population. Three electronic databases were fully searched for articles published in peer-reviewed journals between 1996 and 2017. Of 1616 identified articles, fifteen articles were eligible for meta-analyses. The summary incidence rate (IR) of HIV was 6.63/100 person-year (95%CI 2.06–11.20/100 person-year)(p = 0.004). The pooled per-contact rate (PCR) of HIV was 0.42% (95% CI 0.21–0.63%)(p < 0.05). The HAART initiation (vs non-HAART) was not associated with engaging in UAI, with odds ratio (OR) 1.09 (95% CI 0.90–1.34)(p > 0.05). In the stratified analysis, participants with no less than 6 months recall period was slightly more likely to engage in UAI (OR 1.32; 95% CI 1.01–1.74)(p < 0.05). It indicated that HAART has potential efficacy on reducing infectivity of HIV positive individuals in anal intercourses. The relationship between the HAART initiation and UAI was not significant and may be influenced by some social-demographic factors. Consistent condom use and education on safe sex among MSM are crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Jiang
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Shu Su
- School of public health and preventive medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yan Borné
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Wimberly AS, Gross R, Layde M. Effect of Yoga on Antiretroviral Adherence Postincarceration in HIV+ Individuals. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2020; 26:83-94. [PMID: 32089078 PMCID: PMC7733694 DOI: 10.1177/1078345819897924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The negative impacts of stress on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and the many stressors faced by people returning from incarceration support the need for stress reduction interventions for this population. We hypothesized that 37 returning citizens living with HIV and substance use problems randomized to a 12-session weekly yoga intervention would experience improved ART adherence, lower viral loads, and lower heart rate and blood pressure as compared to 36 people randomized to treatment as usual (TAU). We found that ART adherence increased for yoga participants and decreased for TAU participants. There were no significant changes for viral load, heart rate, or blood pressure. The lack of statistically significant effects may be due to a small sample size and enrollment of people largely in HIV treatment. Studies with larger sample sizes and participants exhibiting low ART adherence are warranted to better understand yoga's impact.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Gross
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Greenhalgh S, Schmidt R, Day T. Fighting the Public Health Burden of AIDS With the Human Pegivirus. Am J Epidemiol 2019; 188:1586-1594. [PMID: 31145443 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwz139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly active antiretroviral therapy has revolutionized the battle against human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). From its current global rollout, HIV/AIDS morbidity and mortality has been greatly reduced, yet there exists substantial interest in the development of new therapies to further mitigate the HIV/AIDS health burden and to inhibit any fallout from the development of antiretroviral drug resistance. One potential intervention is the human pegivirus (HPgV). HPgV is not known to cause disease, and most remarkably it is shown to delay the progression of HIV to AIDS. However, the health benefit of increasing HPgV prevalence in the community of HIV-infected men remains unknown at the public health level. We evaluated the utility of HPgV biovaccination for mitigating the HIV/AIDS health burden using mathematical models. Importantly, our work considers the potential concern that HPgV will, itself, evolve to become disease-causing by permitting mutant disease-causing HPgV strains to potentially arise during treatment. Our findings show that HPgV biovaccination rates of 12.5%-50% annually could prevent 4.2-23.6 AIDS incidences and 3.3-18.8 AIDS deaths, and could save 2.9-18.6 disability-adjusted life years per 1,000 people. Together, these findings indicate that HPgV biovaccination could be an effective therapy for reducing HIV/AIDS morbidity and mortality, and thus warrants further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Greenhalgh
- Department of Mathematics, Siena College, Loudonville, New York
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rebecca Schmidt
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Troy Day
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Melo MGD, Sprinz E, Gorbach PM, Santos B, Rocha TDM, Simon M, Almeida M, Lira R, Chaves MC, Kerin T, Varella I, Nielsen-Saines K. HIV-1 heterosexual transmission and association with sexually transmitted infections in the era of treatment as prevention. Int J Infect Dis 2019; 87:128-134. [PMID: 31404674 PMCID: PMC6894479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: HIV-1 heterosexual transmission among individuals on antiretroviral treatment (ART) with undetectable viremia is extremely rare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of sexual HIV-1 transmission and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in HIV-1 serodifferent couples while the index partner is on ART. Methods: HIV transmission was evaluated in 200 HIV-1 heterosexual serodifferent couples in a stable relationship (≥3 months). All HIV-positive individuals had been on ART for ≥3 months and had been followed up for a median preceding time of 4.5 years (range 0.3–16years) at the HIV couples clinic at Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Following written informed consent, participants responded to demographic/behavioral questionnaires. Quantitative PCR for HIV RNA, T-cell subsets, and STI testing (syphilis, herpes, human papillomavirus, gonorrhea, and bacterial vaginosis) were performed. Self-collected vaginal swabs were obtained for quantitative HIV genital viral load testing. Results: Among 200 couples, 70% of index partners were female. Five seroconversions were observed; the HIV infection incidence was 2.5% (95% confidence interval 0.8% to 5.7%). Mean plasma viral load results were higher in HIV transmitters compared to non-transmitters (p = 0.02). The presence of STIs was significantly greater in couples who seroconverted (60.0% vs. 13.3%; odds ratio 9.75, 95% confidence interval 1.55–61.2; p = 0.023). The duration of undetectable HIV viremia and presence of STIs were associated with HIV transmission. Conclusions: Undetectable viremia was the main factor associated with non-transmissibility of HIV in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eduardo Sprinz
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Breno Santos
- Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Mariana Simon
- Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Rita Lira
- Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Tara Kerin
- David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ivana Varella
- Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Karin Nielsen-Saines
- David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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Ackley SF, Lee RS, Worden L, Zwick E, Porco TC, Behr MA, Pepperell CS. Multiple exposures, reinfection and risk of progression to active tuberculosis. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2019; 6:180999. [PMID: 31031990 PMCID: PMC6458392 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.180999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
A recent study reported on a tuberculosis (TB) outbreak in a largely Inuit village. Among newly infected individuals, exposure to additional active cases was associated with an increasing probability of developing active disease within a year. Using binomial risk models, we evaluated two potential mechanisms by which multiple infections during the first year following initial infection could account for increasing disease risk with increasing exposures. In the reinfection model, each infectious contact confers an independent risk of an infection, and infections contribute independently to active disease. In the threshold model, disease risk follows a sigmoidal function with small numbers of infectious contacts conferring a low risk of active disease and large numbers of contacts conferring a high risk. To determine the dynamic impact of reinfection during the early phase of infection, we performed simulations from a modified Reed-Frost model of TB dynamics following spread from an initial number of cases. We parametrized this model with the maximum-likelihood estimates from the reinfection and threshold models in addition to the observed distribution of exposures among new infections. We find that both models can plausibly account for the observed increase in disease risk with increasing infectious contacts, but the threshold model confers a better fit than a nested model without a threshold (p = 0.04). Our simulations indicate that multiple exposures to infectious individuals during this critical time period can lead to dramatic increases in outbreak size. In order to decrease TB burden in high-prevalence settings, it may be necessary to implement measures aimed at preventing repeated exposures, in addition to preventing primary infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah F. Ackley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Robyn S. Lee
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard University, School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lee Worden
- Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Erin Zwick
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Travis C. Porco
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Marcel A. Behr
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- McGill International TB Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Caitlin S. Pepperell
- Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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Adamson B, El-Sadr W, Dimitrov D, Gamble T, Beauchamp G, Carlson JJ, Garrison L, Donnell D. The Cost-Effectiveness of Financial Incentives for Viral Suppression: HPTN 065 Study. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2019; 22:194-202. [PMID: 30711064 PMCID: PMC6362462 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Revised: 07/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of financial incentives for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral suppression compared to standard of care. STUDY DESIGN Mathematical model of 2-year intervention offering financial incentives ($70 quarterly) for viral suppression (<400 copies/ml3) based on the HPTN 065 clinical trial with HIV patients in the Bronx, NY and Washington, D.C. METHODS A disease progression model with HIV transmission risk equations was developed following guidelines from the Second Panel on Cost-Effectiveness in Health and Medicine. We used health care sector and societal perspectives, 3% discount rate, and lifetime horizon. Data sources included trial data (baseline N = 16,208 patients), CDC HIV Surveillance data, and published literature. Outcomes were costs (2017 USD), quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), HIV infections prevented, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). RESULTS Financial incentives for viral suppression were estimated to be cost-saving from a societal perspective and cost-effective ($49,877/QALY) from a health care sector perspective. Compared to the standard of care, financial incentives gain 0.06 QALYs and lower discounted lifetime costs by $4210 per patient. The model estimates that incentivized patients transmit 9% fewer infections than the standard-of-care patients. In the sensitivity analysis, ICER 95% credible intervals ranged from cost-saving to $501,610/QALY with 72% of simulations being cost-effective using a $150,000/QALY threshold. Modeling results are limited by uncertainty in efficacy from the clinical trial. CONCLUSIONS Financial incentives, as used in HTPN 065, are estimated to improve quality and length of life, reduce HIV transmissions, and save money from a societal perspective. Financial incentives offer a promising option for enhancing the benefits of medication in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blythe Adamson
- The Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Vaccine and Infectious Diseases Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | | | - Dobromir Dimitrov
- Vaccine and Infectious Diseases Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Theresa Gamble
- HPTN Leadership and Operations Center, Science Facilitation Department, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Geetha Beauchamp
- Vaccine and Infectious Diseases Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Josh J Carlson
- The Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Louis Garrison
- The Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Deborah Donnell
- Vaccine and Infectious Diseases Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
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McManus KA, Rhodes A, Yerkes L, Engelhard CL, Ingersoll KS, Dillingham R. Year 2 of Affordable Care Act Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) in a Medicaid Nonexpansion State: QHPs Associated With Viral Suppression for Virginia AIDS Drug Assistance Program Clients. Open Forum Infect Dis 2018; 5:ofy283. [PMID: 30568977 PMCID: PMC6293482 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofy283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For year 1 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Virginia AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) clients with Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) achieved a higher rate of viral suppression. This study characterizes the demographic and health care delivery factors associated with QHP enrollment in year 2 and assesses the relationship between 2015 QHP coverage and HIV viral suppression. Methods The cohort included Virginia ADAP clients who were eligible for ADAP-funded QHPs. Data were collected from 2014 to 2015. Multivariable binary logistic regression was conducted to assess the association of demographic and health care delivery factors with QHP enrollment and viral suppression. Results In year 2, 63% of the cohort (n = 4631) enrolled in QHPs; 2015 ADAP-funded QHP enrollment was associated with 2014 ADAP-funded QHP (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 111.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 90.91–166.67), 2014 engagement in care (aOR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.65–2.82), age (P < .001), race/ethnicity (P = .03), financial status (P < .001), and region (P < .001). For clients engaged in care (n = 2501), viral suppression was higher (83.3%) for those with ADAP-funded QHP coverage than for those who received medications from ADAP (79.9%). In multivariable binary logistic regression, achieving viral suppression was associated with 2015 QHP coverage (aOR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.01–1.60), an initially undetectable viral load (aOR, 2.69; 95% CI, 2.13–3.39), gender (P = .03), age (P = .01), no AIDS diagnosis (aOR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.12–1.78), financial status (P = .004), and region (P < .001). Conclusions Virginia ADAP client 2015 QHP enrollment increased compared with year 1 and varied based on demographic and health care delivery factors. QHP coverage was again associated with viral suppression, an essential outcome for individuals and for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A McManus
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.,Center for Health Policy, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Anne Rhodes
- Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, Virginia
| | | | - Carolyn L Engelhard
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Karen S Ingersoll
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Rebecca Dillingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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13
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Sexual Risk Behaviors of Patients with HIV/AIDS over the Course of Antiretroviral Treatment in Northern Vietnam. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15061106. [PMID: 29844289 PMCID: PMC6025123 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15061106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) improves the health and well-being of people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, PLWH), and reduces their risk of transmitting the virus to sexual partners. However, patterns of sexual risk behavior among HIV-positive patients taking ART in Vietnam remain largely unknown. In this study, we sought to examine sexual risk behaviors and their associated factors among HIV-positive patients receiving ART in northern Vietnam. The socio-demographic characteristics, ART use, health status, and sexual behaviors of 1133 patients taking ART in the Hanoi and Nam Dinh provinces were explored through face-to-face interviews. There were 63.5% of patients who had one sex partner, while 3.6% and 5.6% of patients had sexual intercourse with casual partners or sex workers, respectively, in the previous 12 months. Most participants tended to use condoms more often with commercial sex partners (90.2%) and intimate partners (79.7%), and less often with casual partners (60.9%). Higher age (odds ratio, OR = 1.0; 95% CIs = 1.0, 1.1) or suffering pain/discomfort (OR = 1.7; 95% CIs = 1.2, 2.4) were factors more likely to be associated with multiple sex partners. Patients who were self-employed were more likely to have sexual intercourse with casual partners/sex workers (OR = 2.1; 95% CIs = 1.1, 4.0). Meanwhile, a higher score on the EuroQol visual analog scale (EQ-VAS), an unknown HIV stage, and a longer duration of ART were adversely associated with not using condoms with casual partners/sex workers. Patients with longer durations of ART had a lower likelihood of not using a condom with casual partners/sex workers (OR = 0.5; 95% CIs = 0.3, 0.8). Our study underscored a relatively high rate of unsafe sexual behaviors among HIV-positive patients. Continuing to improve the physical and psychological well-being of HIV-positive patients in Vietnam is important in reducing the spread of HIV via risky sexual behaviors. In addition, safe-sex education should be provided to older people, and to those who are self-employed.
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Xuan Q, Liang S, Qin W, Yang S, Zhang AM, Zhao T, Su H, Xia Z, Wang B, Xia X. High prevalence of HIV-1 transmitted drug resistance among therapy-naïve Burmese entering travelers at Dehong ports in Yunnan, China. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:211. [PMID: 29739342 PMCID: PMC5941624 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3130-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The overall success of Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) antiretroviral therapy (ART) was heavily challenged upon the occurrence of drug resistance. Dehong Prefecture witnessed not only the first report of HIV-1 infection but also the experimental adoption of antiviral treatment in China. The transmission and epidemic of HIV-1 in Dehong is impacted by cross-border activities. The characteristics of HIV-1 drug resistance among therapy-naïve Burmese entering travelers in Yunnan and their speculated origin are still not clarified. METHODS Two hundred ninety-eight HIV-1 infected Burmese entering travelers at Dehong ports were recruited between 2003 and 2012. The partial HIV-1 pol gene fragments were amplified and sequenced for the analysis of drug-resistance mutations (DRMs). Phylogenetic analysis on gag-pol gene was conducted to elucidate phylogenetic and evolutionary characteristics of these drug resistant strains. RESULTS It was figured out that the occurrence ratio of HIV-1 drug resistance among HIV-1 infected entering travelers from Myanmar was up to 12.8%. The resistant mutations covered several types, including one type of PI mutations (L33F), six types of NRTI mutations and seven types of NNRTI. Close genetic relationship was observed in the phylogenetic analysis on gag-pol gene among the drug resistant strains respectively from Dehong, other Yunnan areas, neighboring provinces (Guangxi) and neighboring countries (Thailand and Myanmar). CONCLUSIONS The findings in this study revealed that HIV drug resistant locus is spreading from the population who is receiving drug-resistance treatment to the new infectors, which indicates the urgency of surveillance work on drug resistance among the migrant population with high risks of HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qicai Xuan
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Shuwen Liang
- The First people's hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Weihong Qin
- Care Center for International Travel Health in Yunnan, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Shuting Yang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - A-Mei Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Ting Zhao
- The First people's hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Hui Su
- Ruili Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Authority, Ruili, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhiqing Xia
- Brighton College, 1 Eastern Road, Brighton, England, UK
| | - Binghui Wang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
| | - Xueshan Xia
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
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15
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Larbi AA, Spielberg F, Kamanu Elias N, Athey E, Ogbuawa N, Murphy N. Using a retention in care protocol to promote positive health and systems related outcomes. AIDS Care 2018; 30:1-7. [PMID: 29669423 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1465173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
People living with HIV can experience the full benefits of retention when they are continuously engaged in care. Continuous engagement in care promotes improved adherence to ART and positive health outcomes. An infectious disease clinic has implemented a protocol to primarily improve patient retention. The retrospective, facility-based, costing study took place in an infectious disease clinic in Washington DC. Retention was defined in two ways and over a 12-month period. Micro-costing direct measurement methods were used to collect unit costs in time series. Return on investment accounted for the cost of treatment based on CD4 strata. ROI was expressed in 2016USD. The difference in CD4 and viral load levels between the two periods of analysis were determined for active patients, infected with HIV. The year before the intervention was compared to the year of the intervention. Total treatment expenditure decreased from $2,435,653.00 to $2,283,296.23, resulting in a $152,356.77 gain from investment for the healthcare system over a 12-month investment period. The viral load suppression rate increased from 81 to 95 (p = 0.04) over the investment period. The number of patients in need of HIV related opportunistic infection prophylaxis decreased from 21 to 13 (p = 0.06). Improved immunologic, virologic and healthcare expenditure outcomes can be linked to the quality of retention practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfred A Larbi
- a United Medical Center, Care Center for Infectious Diseases , Washington DC , USA
| | - Freya Spielberg
- b Department of Population Health , The University of Texas at Austin, Dell Medical School , Austin , Texas , USA
| | - Nnemdi Kamanu Elias
- a United Medical Center, Care Center for Infectious Diseases , Washington DC , USA
| | - Erin Athey
- a United Medical Center, Care Center for Infectious Diseases , Washington DC , USA
| | - Ngozi Ogbuawa
- a United Medical Center, Care Center for Infectious Diseases , Washington DC , USA
| | - Nancy Murphy
- a United Medical Center, Care Center for Infectious Diseases , Washington DC , USA.,c Division of Nursing , Howard University, College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences , Washington DC , USA
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Lima VD, St-Jean M, Rozada I, Shoveller JA, Nosyk B, Hogg RS, Sereda P, Barrios R, Montaner JSG. Progress towards the United Nations 90-90-90 and 95-95-95 targets: the experience in British Columbia, Canada. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 20. [PMID: 29130644 PMCID: PMC5810311 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Antiretroviral therapy (ART) scale‐up is central to the global strategy to control the HIV/AIDS pandemic. To accelerate efforts towards ending the AIDS epidemic, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS released the 90‐90‐90 and 95‐95‐95 targets, which have recently been approved by the United Nations (UN). This study characterizes the province of British Columbia (BC)'s progress towards achieving the UN targets, predicts a trajectory up to 2030 according to each of the individual steps (i.e. %Diagnosed, %On ART and %Virologically Suppressed), and identifies the population sub‐groups at higher risk of not achieving these targets. Methods The analyses were based on linked individual‐level datasets of people living with HIV (PLWH) in BC, aged ≥18 months, from 2000 to 2013. Using past trends in HIV prevalence and of each individual UN targets, we forecasted these outcomes until 2030 via generalized additive models. We ran a second set of analyses to assess the associations between individual demographic and behavioural factors and each of the individual steps of the UN targets. Lastly, we performed sensitivity analyses to account for uncertainty associated with prevalence estimates and suppression definitions. Results Among the estimated 10666 PLWH in BC in 2013, 82% were diagnosed, 76% of those diagnosed were on ART and 83% of those on ART were virologically suppressed. We identified that females, PLWH aged <30 years and those with unknown risk or who self‐identify as having a history of injection drug use were the population subgroups that experienced the most challenge in engaging on ART and achieving viral suppression. Our model projections suggest that BC will achieve 90%‐91%‐90% and 97%‐99%‐97% by 2020 and 2030 respectively. Conclusions As we approach 2020, BC is rapidly moving towards achieving the UN targets. However, region‐specific challenges persist. Identification of remaining regional challenges will be essential to achieving the proposed UN targets and therefore fulfilling the promise to end AIDS as a pandemic by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane D Lima
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Martin St-Jean
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ignacio Rozada
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jean A Shoveller
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Faculty of Heath Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robert S Hogg
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Faculty of Heath Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul Sereda
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rolando Barrios
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Vancouver Community Health Services, Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julio S G Montaner
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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17
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Acute HIV infection detection and immediate treatment estimated to reduce transmission by 89% among men who have sex with men in Bangkok. J Int AIDS Soc 2017; 20:21708. [PMID: 28691441 PMCID: PMC5515043 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.1.21708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Antiretroviral treatment (ART) reduces HIV transmission. Despite increased ART coverage, incidence remains high among men who have sex with men (MSM) in many places. Acute HIV infection (AHI) is characterized by high viral replication and increased infectiousness. We estimated the feasible reduction in transmission by targeting MSM with AHI for early ART. Methods: We recruited a cohort of 88 MSM with AHI in Bangkok, Thailand, who initiated ART immediately. A risk calculator based on viral load and reported behaviour, calibrated to Thai epidemiological data, was applied to estimate the number of onwards transmissions. This was compared with the expected number without early interventions. Results: Forty of the MSM were in 4th-generation AHI stages 1 and 2 (4thG stage 1, HIV nucleic acid testing (NAT)+/4thG immunoassay (IA)-/3rdG IA–; 4thG stage 2, NAT+/4thG IA+/3rdG IA–) while 48 tested positive on third-generation IA but had negative or indeterminate western blot (4thG stage 3). Mean plasma HIV RNA was 5.62 log10 copies/ml. Any condomless sex in the four months preceding the study was reported by 83.7%, but decreased to 21.2% by 24 weeks on ART. After ART, 48/88 (54.6%) attained HIV RNA <50 copies/ml by week 8, increasing to 78/87 (89.7%), and 64/66 (97%) at weeks 24 and 48, respectively. The estimated number of onwards transmissions in the first year of infection would have been 27.3 (95% credible interval: 21.7–35.3) with no intervention, 8.3 (6.4–11.2) with post-diagnosis behaviour change only, 5.9 (4.4–7.9) with viral load reduction only and 3.1 (2.4–4.3) with both. The latter was associated with an 88.7% (83.8–91.1%) reduction in transmission. Conclusions: Disproportionate HIV transmission occurs during AHI. Diagnosis of AHI with early ART initiation can substantially reduce onwards transmission.
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Factors That Influence Linkages to HIV Continuum of Care Services: Implications for Multi-Level Interventions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14111355. [PMID: 29112126 PMCID: PMC5707994 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14111355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continuum of care involves health promotion providers (e.g., social workers and health educators) linking patients to medical personnel who provide HIV testing, primary care, and antiretroviral treatments. Regrettably, these life-saving linkages are not always made consistently and many patients are not retained in care. To design, test and implement effective interventions, we need to first identify key factors that may improve linkage-making. To help close this gap, we used in-depth interviews with 20 providers selected from a sample of 250 participants in a mixed-method longitudinal study conducted in New York City (2012–2017) in order to examine the implementation of HIV services for at-risk populations. Following a sociomedical framework, we identified provider-, interpersonal- and environmental-level factors that influence how providers engage patients in the care continuum by linking them to HIV testing, HIV care, and other support services. These factors occurred in four domains of reference: Providers’ Professional Knowledge Base; Providers’ Interprofessional Collaboration; Providers’ Work-Related Changes; and Best Practices in a Competitive Environment. Of particular importance, our findings show that a competitive environment and a fear of losing patients to other agencies may inhibit providers from engaging in linkage-making. Our results suggest relationships between factors within and across all four domains; we recommend interventions to modify factors in all domains for maximum effect toward improving care continuum linkage-making. Our findings may be applicable in different areas of the globe with high HIV prevalence.
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Nakiganda LJ, Nakigozi G, Kagaayi J, Nalugoda F, Serwadda D, Sewankambo N, Gray R, Ndyanabo A, Muwanika R, Asamoah BO. Cross-sectional comparative study of risky sexual behaviours among HIV-infected persons initiated and waiting to start antiretroviral therapy in rural Rakai, Uganda. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e016954. [PMID: 28893749 PMCID: PMC5722091 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare risky sexual behaviours between HIV-positive persons initiated on antiretroviral therapy (ART) (ART-experienced) and persons waiting to start on ART (ART-naive) and assess predictors of risky sexual behaviours among HIV-infected patients in rural Rakai district, Uganda. STUDY DESIGN This is a cross-sectional study that used data from the Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS) database between 2013 and 2014. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. We used stepwise logistic regression as an index to estimate the adjusted ORs for the association between risky sexual behaviours and ART treatment status. STUDY SETTING This study was conducted in Rakai district, located in south-western Uganda. The data for this study were extracted from the RCCS. RCCS is an open prospective cohort of approximately 15 000 consenting participants aged 15-49 years. PARTICIPANTS HIV-positive participants aged 18-49 years who had sex at least once a month with any partner prior to the start of the study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Inconsistent/no condom use in the last 12 months, alcohol use at last sexual encounter, and two or more sexual partners. RESULTS ART-naive participants were more likely to report inconsistent condom use (OR=1.74, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.73) and more likely to drink alcohol at last sexual encounter (OR=1.65, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.46), compared with ART-experienced patients. ART treatment status (p<0.001) was a significant predictor of risky sexual behaviours. Both marital status (p=0.016) and occupation level (p=0.009) were positively associated with inconsistent condom use, while sex (p<0.001) correlated with alcohol use at last sexual encounter. CONCLUSION ART-naive participants were more likely to exhibit risky sexual behaviours than the ART-experienced participants. The intensity of risk reduction counselling should be increased for HIV-positive persons waiting to start ART but already in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Jacenta Nakiganda
- International Master Programme in Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | | | | | | | - David Serwadda
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Ronald Gray
- School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Benedict Oppong Asamoah
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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20
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Sex and gender differences in HIV-1 infection. Clin Sci (Lond) 2017; 130:1435-51. [PMID: 27389589 DOI: 10.1042/cs20160112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The major burden of the human immunodeficiency (HIV) type 1 pandemic is nowadays carried by women from sub-Saharan Africa. Differences in the manifestations of HIV-1 infection between women and men have been long reported, and might be due to both socio-economic (gender) and biological (sex) factors. Several studies have shown that women are more susceptible to HIV-1 acquisition than men. Following HIV-1 infection, women have lower viral loads during acute infection and exhibit stronger antiviral responses than men, which may contribute to differences in the size of viral reservoirs. Oestrogen receptor signalling could represent an important mediator of sex differences in HIV-1 reservoir size and may represent a potential therapeutic target. Furthermore, immune activation, a hallmark of HIV-1 infection, is generally higher in women than in men and could be a central mechanism in the sex difference observed in the speed of HIV-1 disease progression. Here, we review the literature regarding sex-based differences in HIV-1 infection and discuss how a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms could improve preventive and therapeutic strategies.
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Gamble T, Branson B, Donnell D, Hall HI, King G, Cutler B, Hader S, Burns D, Leider J, Wood AF, G Volpp K, Buchacz K, El-Sadr WM. Design of the HPTN 065 (TLC-Plus) study: A study to evaluate the feasibility of an enhanced test, link-to-care, plus treat approach for HIV prevention in the United States. Clin Trials 2017. [PMID: 28627929 PMCID: PMC5639958 DOI: 10.1177/1740774517711682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background/Aims HIV continues to be a major public health threat in the United States, and mathematical modeling has demonstrated that the universal effective use of antiretroviral therapy among all HIV-positive individuals (i.e. the “test and treat” approach) has the potential to control HIV. However, to accomplish this, all the steps that define the HIV care continuum must be achieved at high levels, including HIV testing and diagnosis, linkage to and retention in clinical care, antiretroviral medication initiation, and adherence to achieve and maintain viral suppression. The HPTN 065 (Test, Link-to-Care Plus Treat [TLC-Plus]) study was designed to determine the feasibility of the “test and treat” approach in the United States. Methods HPTN 065 was conducted in two intervention communities, Bronx, NY, and Washington, DC, along with four non-intervention communities, Chicago, IL; Houston, TX; Miami, FL; and Philadelphia, PA. The study consisted of five components: (1) exploring the feasibility of expanded HIV testing via social mobilization and the universal offer of testing in hospital settings, (2) evaluating the effectiveness of financial incentives to increase linkage to care, (3) evaluating the effectiveness of financial incentives to increase viral suppression, (4) evaluating the effectiveness of a computer-delivered intervention to decrease risk behavior in HIV-positive patients in healthcare settings, and (5) administering provider and patient surveys to assess knowledge and attitudes regarding the use of antiretroviral therapy for prevention and the use of financial incentives to improve health outcomes. The study used observational cohorts, cluster and individual randomization, and made novel use of the existing national HIV surveillance data infrastructure. All components were developed with input from a community advisory board, and pragmatic methods were used to implement and assess the outcomes for each study component. Results A total of 76 sites in Washington, DC, and the Bronx, NY, participated in the study: 37 HIV test sites, including 16 hospitals, and 39 HIV care sites. Between September 2010 and December 2014, all study components were successfully implemented at these sites and resulted in valid outcomes. Our pragmatic approach to the study design, implementation, and the assessment of study outcomes allowed the study to be conducted within established programmatic structures and processes. In addition, it was successfully layered on the ongoing standard of care and existing data infrastructure without disrupting health services. Conclusion The HPTN 065 study demonstrated the feasibility of implementing and evaluating a multi-component “test and treat” trial that included a large number of community sites and involved pragmatic approaches to study implementation and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Gamble
- 1 Science Facilitation Department, HPTN Leadership and Operations Center, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Deborah Donnell
- 3 Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - H Irene Hall
- 4 Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Georgette King
- 1 Science Facilitation Department, HPTN Leadership and Operations Center, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Blayne Cutler
- 5 Public Health Foundation Enterprises, La Puente, CA, USA
| | - Shannon Hader
- 6 DC Department of Health, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD and TB Administration, Washington, DC, USA
| | - David Burns
- 7 Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jason Leider
- 8 Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Kevin G Volpp
- 10 Center for Health Incentives and Behavioral Economics; Perelman School of Medicine and the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kate Buchacz
- 4 Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Wafaa M El-Sadr
- 11 ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
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Sallam M, Şahin GÖ, Indriðason H, Esbjörnsson J, Löve A, Widell A, Gottfreðsson M, Medstrand P. Decreasing prevalence of transmitted drug resistance among ART-naive HIV-1-infected patients in Iceland, 1996-2012. Infect Ecol Epidemiol 2017. [PMID: 28649306 PMCID: PMC5475329 DOI: 10.1080/20008686.2017.1328964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Resistance to antiretroviral drugs can complicate the management of HIV-1 infection and impair control of its spread. The aim of the current study was to investigate the prevalence and transmission of HIV-1 drug resistance among 106 antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve patients diagnosed in Iceland (1996–2012). Methods: HIV-1 polymerase sequences were analysed using the Calibrated Population Resistance tool. Domestic spread of transmitted drug resistance (TDR) was investigated through maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches. Results: Among ART-naïve patients, the prevalence of TDR to any of the following classes (NRTIs, NNRTIs and PIs) was 8.5% (95% CI: 4.5%- 15.4%): 6.6% to NRTIs, 0.9% to NNRTIs, and 1.9% to PIs. The most frequent NRTI mutation detected was T215C/D (n=7, 5.7%). The only NNRTI mutation detected was K103N (n=1, 0.9%). PI mutations detected were M46I (n=1, 0.9%) and L90M (n=1, 0.9%). Six patients harbouring T215C/D, were linked in a supported phylogenetic cluster. No significant association was found between TDR and demographic or risk groups. Trend analysis showed a decrease in the prevalence of TDR (1996–2012, p=0.003). Conclusions: TDR prevalence in Iceland was at a moderate level and decreased during 1996-2012. Screening for TDR is recommended to limit its local spread and to optimize HIV-1 therapy. Abbreviations: ART: Anti-retroviral therapy; ARV: antiretroviral; ATV/r: atazanavir/ritonavir; AZT: azidothymidine; BEAST: Bayesian evolutionary analysis by sampling trees; CI: confidence interval; CPR: calibrated population resistance; CRF: circulating recombinant form; d4T: stavudine; EFV: efavirenz; FET: Fishers’ exact test; FPV/r: fosamprenavir/ritonavir; HET: heterosexual; IDU: injection drug use; IDV/r: indinavir/ritonavir; LPV/r: lopinavir/ritonavir; MSM: men who have sex with men; M-W: Mann–Whitney U test; NFV: nelfinavir; NNRTIs: non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors; NRTIs: nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors; NVP: nevirapine; PIs: protease inhibitors; pol: polymerase gene; SDRM: surveillance drug resistance mutation; SQV/r: saquinavir/ritonavir; TDR: transmitted drug resistance
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Affiliation(s)
- Malik Sallam
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Gülşen Özkaya Şahin
- Clinical Microbiology, Laboratory Medicine Skåne, Lund, Sweden.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Section of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Hlynur Indriðason
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Joakim Esbjörnsson
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Arthur Löve
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland.,Department of Virology, Landspítali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Anders Widell
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Magnus Gottfreðsson
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Landspítali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Patrik Medstrand
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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23
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McManus KA, McGonigle KM, Engelhard CL, Dillingham R. PPACA and Low-Income People Living with HIV: 2014 Qualified Health Plan Enrollment in a Medicaid Nonexpansion State. South Med J 2017; 109:371-7. [PMID: 27255096 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000000469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) often are uninsured or underinsured, and they may benefit from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PL 111-148) and its improved access to medical care. Safety net programs, such as AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAP) funded through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, which serve low-income people living with HIV, are incorporating Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Marketplace-qualified health plans (QHPs) and helping to fund patients' participation. This changing landscape differs from state to state, and one main element contributing to the differing situations is whether a state elected to expand Medicaid. This review examines QHP enrollment of ADAP clients in Virginia, a Medicaid nonexpansion state, and explores some issues that affect people living with HIV in other Medicaid nonexpansion states. Virginia is a leader in the shift of ADAP healthcare delivery from direct medication provision to purchasing QHPs. Virginia ADAP clients accounted for approximately 2% of ADAP clients nationally, but they represent 17% of ADAP clients enrolled in QHPs nationwide. Ensuring good HIV care of the ADAP population is important to each patient's personal longevity, the public health, and the efficient use of healthcare dollars. As healthcare delivery models shift, the effects on patients and health outcomes achieved should be monitored, particularly for chronic diseases such as HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A McManus
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, and the Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Keanan M McGonigle
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, and the Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Carolyn L Engelhard
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, and the Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Rebecca Dillingham
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, and the Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
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24
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Expanded antiretroviral treatment, sexual networks, and condom use: Treatment as prevention unlikely to succeed without partner reduction among men who have sex with men in China. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0171295. [PMID: 28406992 PMCID: PMC5390964 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To project the impact of partner reduction on preventing new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) under varying conditions of enhanced HIV testing and treatment (T&T) and condom use in Beijing, China. Methods and findings A complex network model was fitted to predict the number of new HIV infections averted from 2014 to 2023 under four scenarios of sexual behavior risk reduction (S)—S1: Male sexual partners decrease (reduced by a random value m from 1–50) while condom use increases (risk constant p is a random value between 0.2 and 1]); S2: Both sexual partners and condom use decrease (m 1, 50; p 1, 1.8); S3: Sexual partners reduce (m 1, 10) while condom use increases or decreases (p 0.2, 1.8); S4: Only MSM with ≥100 male sexual partners reduce their partners (m 1, 50) while condom use increases (p 0.2, 1). HIV prevalence will reach 23.2% by 2023 among Beijing MSM if T&T remains at the 2013 level. The three most influential factors are: T&T coverage; partner reduction (m); and the background risk (p). Under scenarios 1–4 of sexual behavioral changes with enhanced T&T interventions, the cumulative HIV new infections prevented over the 10 years will be 46.8% for S1 (interquartile range [IQR] 32.4%, 60.1%); 29.7% for S2 (IQR 18.0%, 41.4%), 23.2% for S3 (IQR 12.2%, 37.0%) and 11.6% for S4 (IQR 4.0%, 26.6%), respectively. The reproduction number R0 could drop below 1 if there were a substantial reduction of male sexual partners and/or expanded condom use. Conclusion Partner reduction is a vital factor within HIV combination interventions to reduce HIV incidence among Beijing MSM, with substantial additional benefits derived from condom use. T&T without substantial partner reduction and increased condom use is less promising unless its implementation were extremely (and improbably) efficient.
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25
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AKUDIBILLAH G, PANDEY A, MEDLOCK J. Maximizing the benefits of ART and PrEP in resource-limited settings. Epidemiol Infect 2017; 145:942-956. [PMID: 28031062 PMCID: PMC5861504 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268816002958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is increasingly being used as an HIV-prevention tool, administered to uninfected people with ongoing HIV exposure as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and to infected people to reduce their infectiousness. We used a modelling approach to determine the optimal population-level combination of ART and PrEP allocations required in South Africa to maximize programme effectiveness for four outcome measures: new infections, infection-years, death and cost. We considered two different strategies for allocating treatment, one that selectively allocates drugs to sex workers and one that does not. We found that for low treatment availability, prevention through PrEP to the general population or PrEP and ART to sex workers is key to maximizing effectiveness, while for higher drug availability, ART to the general population is optimal. At South Africa's current level of treatment availability, using prevention is most effective at reducing new infections, infection-years, and cost, while using the treatment as ART to the general population best reduces deaths. At treatment levels that meet the UNAIDS's ambitious new 90-90-90 target, using all or almost all treatment as ART to the general population best reduces all four outcome measures considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. AKUDIBILLAH
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - A. PANDEY
- Center for Infectious Disease Modeling and Analysis, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - J. MEDLOCK
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
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26
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Tao LL, Liu M, Li SM, Liu J, Jiang SL, Wang LJ, Luo FJ, Wang N. Impact of Antiretroviral Therapy on the Spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Chaoyang District, Beijing, China: Using the Asian Epidemic Model. Chin Med J (Engl) 2017; 130:32-38. [PMID: 28051020 PMCID: PMC5221108 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.196571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been demonstrated to be effective in reducing the infectivity of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We conducted a study to predict the potential effect of ART on the spread of HIV in Chaoyang District, Beijing, China, using the Asian Epidemic Model (AEM). METHODS The AEM baseline workbook was used to determine the current infection status and to project the future spread of HIV under current conditions. We changed the input on the ART coverage from 2014 to 2025 and also modified the treatment eligibility in the AEM intervention workbook, in order to allow for analysis of the projected downstream impact of ART. RESULTS By gradually increasing the ART coverage rate from 29.7% (rate of 2013) to 40.0%, 50.0%, 60.0%, 70.0%, 80.0%, and 90.0% (at CD4+ ≤350 cells/μl), and by changing the dates of coverage from 2014 to 2020, the number of new infections showed a cumulative decline of 0.60%, 1.59%, 2.94%, 5.33%, 9.32%, and 14.98%, respectively. After 2020, the projected rates of infection rebounded slightly, so with the exception of the years with very high coverage (90.0%), new infections continued to decrease. When we changed the initial threshold of therapy to CD4+ cell counts ≤500 cells/μl, new infections decreased 6.00%, 11.64%, 15.92%, 21.11%, 26.92%, 33.05%, and 38.75%, respectively, under varying ART coverages. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that the early initiation of ART for people living with HIV/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has a positive effect in slowing the spread of HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Tao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shu-Ming Li
- Department of STD and AIDS Prevention and Control, Beijing Chaoyang District Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Jue Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shu-Lin Jiang
- Department of STD and AIDS Prevention and Control, Beijing Chaoyang District Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Li-Juan Wang
- Department of STD and AIDS Prevention and Control, Beijing Chaoyang District Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Feng-Ji Luo
- Department of STD and AIDS Prevention and Control, Beijing Chaoyang District Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Ning Wang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, China
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27
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Washington TA, Applewhite S, Glenn W. Using Facebook as a Platform to Direct Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men to a Video-Based HIV Testing Intervention: A Feasibility Study. URBAN SOCIAL WORK 2017; 1:36-52. [PMID: 29276800 PMCID: PMC5737932 DOI: 10.1891/2474-8684.1.1.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A randomized control pilot study was conducted with Black men who have sex with men (BMSM; N = 42) aged 18-30 years to examine the feasibility of implementing a video intervention delivered using Facebook to motivate HIV testing. METHODS At baseline, participants were unaware of their HIV status and had not tested for HIV in the past 6 months, residing in Los Angeles County. The intervention content included topics such as social influence, HIV knowledge, stigma, HIV positive knowledge, and benefits of knowing one's HIV status. FINDINGS Logistic regression revealed that those receiving the video intervention were 7 times more likely to have tested for HIV than those in the control group at 6-week follow-up (odds ratio [OR] = 7.00, 95% confidence interval [1.72, 28.33], p = .006). CONCLUSION Data suggest that the intervention was feasible for motivating HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Alex Washington
- College of Health and Human Services, School of Social Work, California State University, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | - Sheldon Applewhite
- Department of Sociology, Borough of Manhattan Community College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wendell Glenn
- ADAM Project, Behavioral Health Services, Long Beach, CA, USA
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28
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Gurski KF, Hoffman KA. Influence of concurrency, partner choice, and viral suppression on racial disparity in the prevalence of HIV infected women. Math Biosci 2016; 282:91-108. [PMID: 27712990 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbs.2016.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In 1992, Watts and May introduced a simple dynamical systems model of the spread of HIV based on disease transmission per partnership including the length of partnership duration. This model allowed for the treatment of concurrent partnerships, although it was hampered by the assumption of an important latent phase which generated a non-autonomous system. Subsequent models including concurrency have been based on networks, Monte Carlo, and stochastic simulations which lose a qualitative understanding of the effects of concurrency. We present a new autonomous deterministic model of the effect of concurrent sexual partnerships that allows for an analytical study of disease transmission. We incorporate the effect of concurrency through the newly derived force of infection term in a mathematical model of the transmission of HIV through sexual contact in a population stratified by sexual behavior and race/ethnicity. The model also includes variations in population mixing (partner choice) and non-uniform Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Treatment (HAART) leading to viral suppression. We use this mathematical model to understand the non-uniform spread of HIV in women who were infected through heterosexual contact. In addition, an analytical study shows the importance of continued condom use in virally suppressed MSM. Numerical simulations of the reproduction number as a function of concurrency, viral suppression level, and mixing show a reservoir of disease present in both heterosexual and MSM populations. Statistical analysis of parameter values show that viral suppression level, mixing and progression to AIDS without viral suppression have a strong correlation (either positive or negative) with the number of HIV positive women. Concurrency and assortative mixing are shown to be essential to reproduce infection levels in women, as reported by 2010 data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
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Affiliation(s)
- K F Gurski
- Department of Mathematics, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, United States.
| | - K A Hoffman
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, United States
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29
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McManus KA, Rodney RC, Rhodes A, Bailey S, Dillingham R. Affordable Care Act Qualified Health Plan Enrollment for AIDS Drug Assistance Program Clients: Virginia's Experience and Best Practices. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2016; 32:885-91. [PMID: 27346694 PMCID: PMC5028904 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2016.0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2014, many safety net resources, including state AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAPs), incorporated ACA Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) into their healthcare delivery model. This article highlights the benefits of the ACA for persons living with HIV. It also describes the range of strategies employed by state ADAPs to enroll patients in QHPs. The Virginia ADAP ACA implementation experience is described to illustrate one ADAP's shift to purchasing QHPs in addition to providing direct medications. Virginia ADAP is in a Medicaid nonexpansion state and funds the full costs of the QHP premiums, deductibles, and medication copayments. Virginia's experience is applicable to other Medicaid nonexpansion states and to state ADAPs in Medicaid expansion states, who are looking for options for their Medicaid ineligible clients. This article provides practical details of Virginia ADAP's ACA implementation as well as insights and best practices at both the state and clinic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A. McManus
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Robert C. Rodney
- University of Virginia Ryan White HIV Clinic, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Anne Rhodes
- Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, Virginia
| | | | - Rebecca Dillingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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30
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Cooley LA, Wejnert C, Spiller MW, Broz D, Paz-Bailey G. Low HIV testing among persons who inject drugs-National HIV Behavioral Surveillance, 20 U.S. cities, 2012. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 165:270-4. [PMID: 27323649 PMCID: PMC5134421 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Persons who inject drugs (PWID) continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV. HIV testing is key to reducing HIV transmission by increasing awareness of HIV status and linking HIV-positive persons to care. Using data from PWID participating in CDC's National HIV Behavioral Surveillance (NHBS) system, we examined prevalence of recent HIV testing among PWID by certain characteristics to guide interventions to increase HIV testing. METHODS We analyzed NHBS data from PWID 18 years or older recruited via respondent-driven sampling in 20 US cities in 2012. We examined demographic and behavioral factors associated with recent HIV testing (within 12 months before interview) using a Poisson model to calculate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs). RESULTS Of 9555 PWID, 53% had recently tested for HIV. In multivariable analysis, HIV testing was more frequent among participants who visited a healthcare provider (aPR 1.50, P<0.001), participated in alcohol or drug treatment (aPR 1.21, P<0.001), or received an HIV prevention intervention (aPR 1.26, P<0.001). HIV testing was also more frequent among participants who received free sterile syringes (aPR 1.12, P<0.001). DISCUSSION Only half of PWID participating in NHBS in 2012 reported recent HIV testing. HIV testing was more frequent among participants who accessed health and HIV prevention services. To increase HIV testing among PWID, it is important for providers in healthcare and HIV prevention settings to proactively assess risk factors for HIV, including injection drug use, and offer a wide range of appropriate interventions, such as HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A. Cooley
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, GA, USA,Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, NE, MS-E46, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA,Corresponding author. (L.A. Cooley)
| | - Cyprian Wejnert
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michael W. Spiller
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dita Broz
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gabriela Paz-Bailey
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Gross IM, Hosek S, Richards MH, Fernandez MI. Predictors and Profiles of Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among African American Adolescents and Young Adult Males Living with HIV. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2016; 30:324-38. [PMID: 27410496 PMCID: PMC4948258 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2015.0351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for thwarting HIV disease progression and reducing secondary HIV transmission, yet youth living with HIV (YLH) struggle with adherence. The highest rates of new HIV infections in the United States occur in young African American men. A sample of 387 HIV-positive young African American males on ART was selected from a cross-sectional assessment of (YLH) receiving medical care within the Adolescent Trials Network for HIV/AIDS Interventions (ATN) from 2010 to 2012 (12-24 years old, median 22.00, SD 2.08). Participants completed self-reported adherence, demographic, health, and psychosocial measures. Sixty-two percent self-reported 100% ART adherence. Optimal data analysis identified frequency of cannabis use during the past 3 months as the strongest independent predictor of adherence, yielding moderate effect strength sensitivity (ESS) = 27.1, p < 0.001. Among participants with infrequent cannabis use, 72% reported full adherence; in contrast, only 45% of participants who used cannabis frequently reported full adherence. Classification tree analysis (CTA) was utilized to improve classification accuracy and to identify the pathways of ART adherence and nonadherence. The CTA model evidenced a 38% improvement above chance for correctly classifying participants as ART adherent or nonadherent. Participants most likely to be adherent were those with low psychological distress and minimal alcohol use (82% were adherent). Participants least likely to be adherent were those with higher psychological distress and engaged in weekly cannabis use (69% were nonadherent). Findings suggest multiple profiles of ART adherence for young African American males living with HIV and argue for targeted psychosocial interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israel Moses Gross
- 1 Department of Psychiatry, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sybil Hosek
- 1 Department of Psychiatry, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County , Chicago, Illinois
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32
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Goldman DP, Juday T, Linthicum MT, Rosenblatt L, Seekins D. The prospect of a generation free of HIV may be within reach if the right policy decisions are made. Health Aff (Millwood) 2016; 33:428-33. [PMID: 24590941 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2013.1280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Scientific advances have transformed HIV treatment and prevention, leading to the adoption of an approach that emphasizes broad testing and antiretroviral treatment at earlier stages in the disease, called "test and treat." In addition to clinical benefits, early treatment generates considerable social and economic value. These changes raise the prospect that for the first time since the 1980s, an entire generation might be free of HIV. However, achieving such a goal will require continued scientific advances and the presence of policies and programs to ensure that people living with HIV/AIDS have access to health care and adhere to treatment regimens. This article explores the opportunities and challenges that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) presents for people living with HIV/AIDS and discusses how the act's various components might interact with existing support for people with HIV/AIDS, such as the Ryan White Program. As the ACA's reforms proceed, coordinated state and federal programs must make smart policy choices so that critical access to and affordability of comprehensive care are maintained in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
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33
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McManus KA, Rhodes A, Bailey S, Yerkes L, Engelhard CL, Ingersoll KS, Stukenborg GJ, Dillingham R. Affordable Care Act Qualified Health Plan Coverage: Association With Improved HIV Viral Suppression for AIDS Drug Assistance Program Clients in a Medicaid Nonexpansion State. Clin Infect Dis 2016; 63:396-403. [PMID: 27143661 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciw277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, many state AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAPs) shifted their healthcare delivery model from direct medication provision to purchasing qualified health plans (QHPs). The objective of this study was to characterize the demographic and healthcare delivery factors associated with Virginia ADAP clients' QHP enrollment and to assess the relationship between QHP coverage and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral suppression. METHODS The cohort included persons living with HIV who were enrolled in the Virginia ADAP (n = 3933). Data were collected from 1 January 2013 through 31 December 2014. Multivariable binary logistic regression was conducted to assess for associations with QHP enrollment and between QHP coverage and viral load (VL) suppression. RESULTS In the cohort, 47.1% enrolled in QHPs, and enrollment varied significantly based on demographic and healthcare delivery factors. In multivariable binary logistic regression, controlling for time, age, sex, race/ethnicity, and region, factors significantly associated with achieving HIV viral suppression included QHP coverage (adjusted odds ratio, 1.346; 95% confidence interval, 1.041-1.740; P = .02), an initially undetectable VL (2.809; 2.174-3.636; P < .001), HIV rather than AIDS disease status (1.377; 1.049-1.808; P = .02), and HIV clinic (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS QHP coverage was associated with viral suppression, an essential outcome for individuals and for public health. Promoting QHP coverage in clinics that provide care to persons living with HIV may offer a new opportunity to increase rates of viral suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne Rhodes
- Department of Virginia Department of Health, Richmond
| | - Steven Bailey
- Department of Virginia Department of Health, Richmond
| | - Lauren Yerkes
- Department of Virginia Department of Health, Richmond
| | | | - Karen S Ingersoll
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
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Cihlar T, Fordyce M. Current status and prospects of HIV treatment. Curr Opin Virol 2016; 18:50-6. [PMID: 27023283 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2016.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Current antiviral treatments can reduce HIV-associated morbidity, prolong survival, and prevent HIV transmission. Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) containing preferably three active drugs from two or more classes is required for durable virologic suppression. Regimen selection is based on virologic efficacy, potential for adverse effects, pill burden and dosing frequency, drug-drug interaction potential, resistance test results, comorbid conditions, social status, and cost. With prolonged virologic suppression, improved clinical outcomes, and longer survival, patients will be exposed to antiretroviral agents for decades. Therefore, maximizing the safety and tolerability of cART is a high priority. Emergence of resistance and/or lack of tolerability in individual patients require availability of a range of treatment options. Development of new drugs is focused on improving safety (e.g. tenofovir alafenamide) and/or resistance profile (e.g. doravirine) within the existing drug classes, combination therapies with improved adherence (e.g. single-tablet regimens), novel mechanisms of action (e.g. attachment inhibitors, maturation inhibitors, broadly neutralizing antibodies), and treatment simplification with infrequent dosing (e.g. long-acting injectables). In parallel with cART innovations, research and development efforts focused on agents that target persistent HIV reservoirs may lead to prolonged drug-free remission and HIV cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Cihlar
- Department of Biology, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA.
| | - Marshall Fordyce
- HIV Clinical Development, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
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Viral Loads Among HIV-Infected Persons Diagnosed With Primary and Secondary Syphilis in 4 US Cities: New York City, Philadelphia, PA, Washington, DC, and Phoenix, AZ. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 70:179-85. [PMID: 26090756 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Incident syphilis among HIV-infected persons indicates the ongoing behavioral risk for HIV transmission. Detectable viral loads (VLs) among coinfected cases may amplify this risk. METHODS Primary and secondary cases reported during 2009-2010 from 4 US sites were crossmatched with local HIV surveillance registries to identify syphilis case-persons infected with HIV before or shortly after the syphilis diagnosis. We examined HIV VL and CD4 results collected within 6 months before or after syphilis diagnosis for the coinfected cases identified. Independent correlates of detectable VLs (≥200 copies/mL) were determined. RESULTS We identified 1675 cases of incident primary or secondary syphilis among persons with HIV. Median age was 37 years; 99.5% were men, 41.1% were African American, 24.5% were Hispanics, and 79.9% of the HIV diagnoses were made at least 1 year before syphilis diagnosis. Among those coinfected, there were no VL results reported for 188 (11.2%); of the 1487 (88.8%) with reported VL results, 809 (54.4%) had a detectable VL (median, 25,101 copies/mL; range, 206-3,590,000 copies/mL). Detectable VLs independently correlated with syphilis diagnosed at younger age, at an sexually transmitted disease clinic, and closer in time to HIV diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS More than half of syphilis case-persons identified with HIV had a detectable VL collected within 6 months of the syphilis diagnosis. This suggests virologic and active behavioral risk for transmitting HIV.
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Angdembe MR, Lohani SP, Karki DK, Bhattarai K, Shrestha N. Sexual behaviour of people living with HIV attending a tertiary care government hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal: a cross sectional study. BMC Res Notes 2015; 8:629. [PMID: 26525742 PMCID: PMC4630840 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-015-1559-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Clinical improvements that follow antiretroviral therapy (ART) may lead to increase or resumption of high risk activities that could unintentionally result in HIV transmission. The objective was to investigate whether treatment status is a significant predictor of sexual risk behaviour (unprotected sex). Methods A cross sectional study was conducted among 160 people living with HIV (PLHIV) (89 ART experienced and 71 ART naïve) attending Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Logistic regression with stepwise modeling was used to obtain adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95 % CI. Results In this study, 92 % of sexually active respondents reported sex with a regular partner. ART experienced PLHIV were significantly more likely to report consistent condom use with their regular partners compared to ART naïve PLHIV (83 vs. 53 %; P = 0.006) during the past six months. In multivariate analysis, sex (OR = 4.59, 95 % CI: 1.15–18.39), treatment status (OR = 4.76, 95 % CI: 1.29–17.52) and alcohol consumption during last sex with regular partners (OR = 14.75, 95 % CI: 2.75–79.29) were significantly associated with unprotected sex. Conclusion ART naïve PLHIV were five times more likely to exhibit sexual risk behaviour (have unprotected sex) than ART experienced PLHIV. Thus the study provided no evidence to suggest that ART experienced PLHIV exhibit greater sexual risk behaviour compared to ART naïve PLHIV. Prevention programmes need to emphasize on counselling to PLHIV and their regular partners with focused interventions such as couple counselling and education programmes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13104-015-1559-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirak Raj Angdembe
- Department of Public Health, Central Institute of Science and Technology, Pokhara University, Kathmandu, Nepal.
| | - Shyam Prasad Lohani
- Centre for Health Research and International Relations, Nobel College, Pokhara University, Kathmandu, Nepal.
| | | | - Kreepa Bhattarai
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Niraj Shrestha
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
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Álvarez-Del Arco D, Monge S, Rivero-Montesdeoca Y, Burns F, Noori T, Del Amo J. Implementing and expanding HIV testing in immigrant populations in Europe: Comparing guideline's recommendations and expert's opinions. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2015; 35:47-51. [PMID: 26481661 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimc.2015.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Immigrant populations, especially those from endemic countries, living in the European Union (EU) suffer a disproportionate burden of HIV, delayed diagnosis and poorer access to antiretroviral treatment. While International Organisations are developing recommendations aimed at increasing the uptake of HIV testing, the feasibility and real outcomes of these measures remain unexplored. The aim of this review was, firstly to identify the recommendations of the main International Organisations (IO) on HIV testing in immigrants. Secondly, to describe the challenges for implementing and expanding HIV testing and counselling interventions targeting immigrants by interviewing key informants. The importance of HIV testing in immigrants is discussed, along with the appropriateness of universal HIV testing approaches vs most at risk targeted approaches. Also addressed is, pre- and post-HIV test counselling characteristics and community initiatives suitable to reach this population and, finally the legal issues regarding access to treatment for illegal immigrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Álvarez-Del Arco
- National Centre of Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (Madrid) and Division of Environmental and Reproductive Epidemiology, Biomedical Research Network on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain.
| | - Susana Monge
- Department of Medical and Social Sciences, Alcalá University and CIBERESP, Spain
| | | | - Fiona Burns
- Centre for Sexual Health & HIV Research, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Teymur Noori
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Sweden
| | - Julia Del Amo
- National Centre of Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (Madrid) and CIBERESP, Spain
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Dispelling myths and focusing on notable concepts in HIV pathogenesis. Trends Mol Med 2015; 21:341-53. [PMID: 25883070 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Revised: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery of HIV over three decades ago, major efforts have been made to control and perhaps eliminate HIV infection worldwide. During these studies, certain myths or misconceptions about this infectious disease have been emphasized and other potentially beneficial concepts have received less attention. A true long-term solution to HIV infection merits an appreciation of alternative ideas and findings that could be beneficial in the ultimate control of HIV/AIDS. Here, I discuss six issues and call for more attention to the science of HIV and well-designed clinical trials.
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Estimating the cost of increasing retention in care for HIV-infected patients: results of the CDC/HRSA retention in care trial. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 68:345-50. [PMID: 25469520 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retaining HIV patients in medical care promotes access to antiretroviral therapy, viral load suppression, and reduced HIV transmission to partners. We estimate the programmatic costs of a US multisite randomized controlled trial of an intervention to retain HIV patients in care. METHODS Six academically affiliated HIV clinics randomized patients to intervention (enhanced personal contact with patients across time coupled with basic HIV education) and control [standard of care (SOC)] arms. Retention in care was defined as 4-month visit constancy, that is, at least 1 primary care visit in each 4-month interval over a 12-month period. We used microcosting methods to collect unit costs and measure the quantity of resources used to implement the intervention in each clinic. All fixed and variable labor and nonlabor costs of the intervention were included. RESULTS Visit constancy was achieved by 45.7% (280/613) of patients in the SOC arm and by 55.8% (343/615) of patients in the intervention arm, representing an increase of 63 patients (relative improvement 22.1%; 95% confidence interval: 9% to 36%; P < 0.01). The total annual cost of the intervention at the 6 clinics was $241,565, the average cost per patient was $393, and the estimated cost per additional patient retained in care beyond SOC was $3834. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses showed that a retention in care intervention consisting of enhanced personal contact coupled with basic HIV education may be delivered at fairly low cost. These results provide useful information for guiding decisions about planning or scaling-up retention in care interventions for HIV-infected patients.
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Wiwattanacheewin K, Sindhu S, Teitelman A, Maneesriwongul W, Viwatwongkasem C. Predictors of Intention to Use HIV Testing Service Among Sexually Experienced Youth in Thailand. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2015; 27:139-152. [PMID: 25915699 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2015.27.2.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the predictors of intention to use HIV counseling and testing (HCT) services among those who had never used HCT services in a sample of 2,536 Thai youth in Bangkok (ages 15-24). Web-based questionnaires included assessments of HIV knowledge, HIV testing attitude, AIDS stigma, and youth-friendly HCT (YFHCT) service expectation. More than 80% of the sexually experienced youth had never used HCT services but among this group 74.06% reported having intentions to do so. The significant predictors consisted of favorable expectations of YFHCT services (p < .001), positive attitude toward HIV testing (p < .005), perceived high risk for HIV infection (p < .01), having multiple sex partners while also using condoms consistently (p < .01), willingness to pay (p < .001), and being informed about HCT and knowing service locations (p < .001). Policy makers, as well as health promotion program developers and researchers can use these findings to increase intention and use of HCT services among at-risk youth.
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Previously undiagnosed HIV infections identified through cluster investigation, North Carolina, 2002-2007. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:723-31. [PMID: 25331264 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0913-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
During cluster investigation, index patients name social contacts that are not sex or drug-sharing partners. The likelihood of identifying new HIV infections among social contacts is unknown. We hypothesized greater odds of identifying new infections among social contacts identified by men who report sex with men (MSM). We reviewed North Carolina HIV diagnoses during 2002-2005 and used logistic regression to compare testing results among social contacts of MSM, men who report sex with women only (MSW) and women. HIV was newly diagnosed among 54/601 (9.0 %) social contacts tested named by MSM, 16/522 (3.1 %) named by MSW, and 23/639 (3.6 %) named by women. Compared with those named by MSW, odds of new HIV diagnosis were greater among MSM social contacts (adjusted odds ratio: 2.5; 95 % confidence interval: 1.3-4.7). Testing social contacts identified previously undiagnosed HIV infections and could provide an opportunity to interrupt transmission.
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Cooley LA, Pearl ML, Flynn C, Ross C, Hart-Cooper G, Elmore K, Blythe D, Morgan J, Oster AM. Low viral suppression and high HIV diagnosis rate among men who have sex with men with syphilis--Baltimore, Maryland. Sex Transm Dis 2015; 42:226-31. [PMID: 25763676 PMCID: PMC9117975 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of syphilis and HIV among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in Baltimore, Maryland, is substantial. Syphilis and HIV surveillance data were analyzed to characterize MSM with syphilis, including those with repeat infection and HIV coinfection, to strengthen prevention efforts. METHODS MSM 15 years or older from Baltimore City or County diagnosed as having early syphilis in 2010 to 2011 were included. Those previously treated for syphilis in 2007 to 2011 were considered to have repeat syphilis infection. HIV surveillance data were used to identify HIV coinfection and assess viral suppression. For MSM not diagnosed as having HIV at or before their syphilis diagnosis, annual HIV diagnosis rates were estimated, using Baltimore City data. RESULTS Of 460 MSM with early syphilis in 2010 or 2011, 92 (20%) had repeat infection; 55% of MSM with a single diagnosis and 86% with repeat infection were HIV coinfected. Among MSM diagnosed as having HIV, viral suppression was low (25%, or 46% of those with a viral load reported). Among Baltimore City MSM without a prior HIV diagnosis, estimated annual HIV diagnosis rates were high (5% for those with 1 syphilis diagnosis, 23% for those with repeat infection). CONCLUSIONS Baltimore-area MSM with syphilis, particularly those with repeat infection, represent a unique population for whom coinfection with HIV is high. Increasing frequency of syphilis and HIV testing among Baltimore area MSM with a syphilis diagnosis and prioritizing HIV-infected MSM with syphilis in efforts to achieve viral suppression may improve outcomes locally for both infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Cooley
- From the *Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention and †Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA; ‡Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Baltimore, MD; §Division of STD Prevention and ¶CDC Experience Applied Epidemiology Fellowship, Atlanta, GA; and **Baltimore County Department of Health and Human Services, Towson, MD
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Yang WL, Kouyos R, Scherrer AU, Böni J, Shah C, Yerly S, Klimkait T, Aubert V, Furrer H, Battegay M, Cavassini M, Bernasconi E, Vernazza P, Held L, Ledergerber B, Günthard HF. Assessing the Paradox Between Transmitted and Acquired HIV Type 1 Drug Resistance Mutations in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study From 1998 to 2012. J Infect Dis 2015; 212:28-38. [PMID: 25576600 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiv012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transmitted human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV) drug resistance (TDR) mutations are transmitted from nonresponding patients (defined as patients with no initial response to treatment and those with an initial response for whom treatment later failed) or from patients who are naive to treatment. Although the prevalence of drug resistance in patients who are not responding to treatment has declined in developed countries, the prevalence of TDR mutations has not. Mechanisms causing this paradox are poorly explored. METHODS We included recently infected, treatment-naive patients with genotypic resistance tests performed ≤ 1 year after infection and before 2013. Potential risk factors for TDR mutations were analyzed using logistic regression. The association between the prevalence of TDR mutations and population viral load (PVL) among treated patients during 1997-2011 was estimated with Poisson regression for all TDR mutations and individually for the most frequent resistance mutations against each drug class (ie, M184V/L90M/K103N). RESULTS We included 2421 recently infected, treatment-naive patients and 5399 patients with no response to treatment. The prevalence of TDR mutations fluctuated considerably over time. Two opposing developments could explain these fluctuations: generally continuous increases in the prevalence of TDR mutations (odds ratio, 1.13; P = .010), punctuated by sharp decreases in the prevalence when new drug classes were introduced. Overall, the prevalence of TDR mutations increased with decreasing PVL (rate ratio [RR], 0.91 per 1000 decrease in PVL; P = .033). Additionally, we observed that the transmitted high-fitness-cost mutation M184V was positively associated with the PVL of nonresponding patients carrying M184V (RR, 1.50 per 100 increase in PVL; P < .001). Such association was absent for K103N (RR, 1.00 per 100 increase in PVL; P = .99) and negative for L90M (RR, 0.75 per 100 increase in PVL; P = .022). CONCLUSIONS Transmission of antiretroviral drug resistance is temporarily reduced by the introduction of new drug classes and driven by nonresponding and treatment-naive patients. These findings suggest a continuous need for new drugs, early detection/treatment of HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Lin Yang
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich
| | - Roger Kouyos
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich
| | - Alexandra U Scherrer
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich
| | - Jürg Böni
- Swiss National Center for Retroviruses, Institute of Medical Virology
| | - Cyril Shah
- Swiss National Center for Retroviruses, Institute of Medical Virology
| | - Sabine Yerly
- Laboratory of Virology, Division of Infectious Diseases, Geneva University Hospital
| | | | | | - Hansjakob Furrer
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Berne University Hospital and University of Berne
| | - Manuel Battegay
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel
| | | | | | - Pietro Vernazza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Leonhard Held
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Zurich
| | - Bruno Ledergerber
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich
| | - Huldrych F Günthard
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich
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Beaulieu M, Adrien A, Potvin L, Dassa C. Stigmatizing attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS: validation of a measurement scale. BMC Public Health 2014; 14:1246. [PMID: 25476441 PMCID: PMC4289343 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-1246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although stigmatization has long been recognized as a major obstacle to HIV prevention. The lack of a valid and reliable measurement tool for stigmatization is a major gap in the research. This study aimed to: 1) develop a scale of stigmatizing attitudes towards people living with HIV (SAT-PLWHA-S) and 2) demonstrate its reliability and validity. METHODS French and English-speaking experts (n = 21) from different professional communities (academics, practitioners) assessed the clarity and relevance of the proposed items. The psychometric properties of the SAT-PLWHA-S were assessed with a random digit dial population based telephone survey (n = 1,500) of respondents in Quebec, Canada. Analyses included exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, correlations, multiple linear regressions, t-tests, hypothesis testing of factorial structure invariance, and Cronbach's alpha. RESULTS Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported a 27-item structure with seven factors: 1) concerns about occasional encounters; 2) avoidance of personal contact; 3) responsibility and blame, 4) liberalism, 5) non-discrimination, 6) confidentiality of seropositive status, and 7) criminalization of HIV transmission. Cronbach's alphas indicate satisfactory internal consistency. An assessment of concurrent validity using Pearson's correlation and multiple linear regression shows that homophobia and HIV transmission knowledge are significant determinants of stigmatizing attitudes toward PLHIV. Discriminant validity (t-test) results suggest that the SAT-PLWHA-S can differentiate attitudes between different groups and indicates invariant factor structure across language. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggest that the SAT-PLWHA-S is a reliable and valid tool for measuring stigmatizing attitudes toward PLHIV and that it can contribute to a deeper understanding of HIV stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Beaulieu
- Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.
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Liu H, Su Y, Zhu L, Xing J, Wu J, Wang N. Effectiveness of ART and condom use for prevention of sexual HIV transmission in serodiscordant couples: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111175. [PMID: 25369471 PMCID: PMC4219707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Consistent and correct condom use and suppressive antiretroviral therapy for the infected partner are two of the primary strategies recommended for prevention of heterosexual HIV transmission in serodiscordant couples today. The applied effectiveness of treatment as a prevention strategy in China is still under investigation, and much less is known about its effects in the presence of other prevention strategies such as consistent condom use. Methods We conducted a systematic search in PubMed and three Chinese language databases to identify relevant articles for the estimation of relative effectiveness of a) consistent condom use and b) ART use by index partners for preventing HIV transmission in serodiscordant couples. We also estimated the prevention effectiveness of ART stratified by condom use level and the prevention effectiveness of consistent condom use stratified by ART use level. Results Pooled results from the eleven eligible studies found a pooled HIV seroconversion incidence of 0.92 cases per 100 person years (PY) among HIV-negative spouses whose index partners were taking ART versus 2.45 cases per 100 PY in untreated couples. The IRR comparing seroconversion in couples where the index-partner was on ART versus not on ART was 0.47 (95%CI: 0.43, 0.52), while stratified by condom use, the IRR was 0.33(0.17,0.64). The IRR comparing incidence in couples reporting “consistent condom use” versus those reporting otherwise was 0.02(95%CI:0.01,0.04), after stratified by ART use level, the IRR was 0.01(95%CI: 0.00, 0.06). Conclusions ART use by index partners could reduce HIV transmission in serodiscordant couples, and the effectiveness of this prevention strategy could be further increased with consistent condom use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixin Liu
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yingying Su
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Jiannan Xing
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wu
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Wang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
- * E-mail:
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Taylor MM, Li WY, Skinner J, Mickey T. Viral loads among young HIV-infected men with early syphilis. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2014; 13:501-5. [PMID: 24899260 PMCID: PMC6754093 DOI: 10.1177/2325957414536229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
High rates of HIV coinfection among men with syphilis suggest HIV transmission opportunities due to biologic and behavioral risk synergy. We abstracted HIV viral loads for HIV-infected males aged 24 years or younger with a diagnosis of early syphilis (ES) in Maricopa County, Arizona, in order to evaluate HIV infectivity. During 2009 to 2012, there were 56 HIV-infected, ES cases meeting the age criteria, of whom 32 (57%) had a detectable viral load performed within 1 year of syphilis diagnosis (median 21 000 copies/mL, range 130-302 844 copies/mL). Only 4 (7%) of the 56 patients had an undetectable viral load (<100 copies/mL) reported within a year of syphilis diagnosis. Twenty (36%) had no reported viral load or a viral load collected after 1 year of syphilis diagnosis. Among this group of young men coinfected with HIV and ES, many had detectable viral loads collected near the time of syphilis diagnosis, suggesting the potential for HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie M Taylor
- Maricopa County Department of Public Health, Phoenix, AZ, USA Arizona Department of Health Services, STD Program, Phoenix, AZ, USA Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Whitney Y Li
- Maricopa County Department of Public Health, Phoenix, AZ, USA Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Office for State, Tribal, Local and Territorial Support, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Julia Skinner
- Arizona Department of Health Services, HIV Surveillance Program, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Tom Mickey
- Maricopa County Department of Public Health, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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Bhunu CP, Mhlanga AN, Mushayabasa S. Exploring the Impact of Prostitution on HIV/AIDS Transmission. INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARLY RESEARCH NOTICES 2014; 2014:651025. [PMID: 27471746 PMCID: PMC4897385 DOI: 10.1155/2014/651025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Revised: 09/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
HIV/AIDS has been somehow linked to prostitution for decades now. A mathematical model is presented to assess the link between prostitution and HIV transmission. The epidemic thresholds known as the reproduction numbers and equilibria for the model are determined and stabilities analyzed. Analysis of the reproduction numbers suggests that HIV/AIDS control using antiretroviral therapy is more effective in the absence of prostitution. Numerical simulations further show high levels of HIV/AIDS when percentage of prostitutes in the community is high. Results from this study suggest that effectively controlling HIV/AIDS requires strategies that address both prostitution and HIV/AIDS transmission. Addressing HIV/AIDS through condom use and antiretroviral therapy may not be enough to stem HIV/AIDS in the community as some drug/alcohol misusing prostitutes may not be able to negotiate for safe sex while they are in drunken stupor. Furthermore, prostitutes are likely to get infected by different HIV strains some of which may be resistant to the antiretroviral therapy regimen in use.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. P. Bhunu
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - A. N. Mhlanga
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - S. Mushayabasa
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Growth patterns and scaling laws governing AIDS epidemic in Brazilian cities. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111015. [PMID: 25340796 PMCID: PMC4207789 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Brazil holds approximately 1/3 of population living infected with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) in Central and South Americas, and it was also the first developing country to implement a large-scale control and intervention program against AIDS epidemic. In this scenario, we investigate the temporal evolution and current status of the AIDS epidemic in Brazil. Specifically, we analyze records of annual absolute frequency of cases for more than 5000 cities for the first 33 years of the infection in Brazil. We found that (i) the annual absolute frequencies exhibit a logistic-type growth with an exponential regime in the first few years of the AIDS spreading; (ii) the actual reproduction number decaying as a power law; (iii) the distribution of the annual absolute frequencies among cities decays with a power law behavior; (iv) the annual absolute frequencies and the number of inhabitants have an allometric relationship; (v) the temporal evolution of the annual absolute frequencies have different profile depending on the average annual absolute frequencies in the cities. These findings yield a general quantitative description of the AIDS infection dynamics in Brazil since the beginning. They also provide clues about the effectiveness of treatment and control programs against the infection, that has had a different impact depending on the number of inhabitants of cities. In this framework, our results give insights into the overall dynamics of AIDS epidemic, which may contribute to select empirically accurate models.
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Hoffmann CJ, Gallant JE. Rationale and evidence for human immunodeficiency virus treatment as prevention at the individual and population levels. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2014; 28:549-61. [PMID: 25287588 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2014.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Individual health benefits of antiretroviral therapy (ART) are becoming clearer. In resource-rich countries, side effects of current ART regimens are minimal. US guidelines recommend ART regardless of CD4 count or viral load. Maintaining an undetectable viral load with ART comes close to eliminating the risk of HIV transmission, leading the US guidelines to recommend universal ART to reduce HIV transmission. Achieving population-level control through treatment as prevention (TasP) may be feasible, but requires considerable investment of resources devoted to HIV testing, linkage to care, ART accessibility, and retention in care. Ongoing studies of TasP will provide insight into achieving meaningful ART coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Hoffmann
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe Street, Room 226, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Joel E Gallant
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe Street, Room 226, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Specialty Services, Southwest CARE Center, 649 Harkle Road, Suite E, Sante Fe, NM 87505, USA.
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Correlates of HIV infection and being unaware of HIV status among soon-to-be-released Ukrainian prisoners. J Int AIDS Soc 2014; 17:19005. [PMID: 25216073 PMCID: PMC4161962 DOI: 10.7448/ias.17.1.19005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Prisoners bear a disproportionate burden of Ukraine's volatile and transitional HIV epidemic, yet little is known in Eastern Europe about HIV testing, treatment and HIV-related risk among prisoners. Methods A nationally representative biobehavioural health survey linked with serological testing was conducted among soon-to-be released prisoners in 13 Ukrainian prisons from June to November 2011. Results Among 402 participants, 78 (19.4%) tested HIV seropositive of whom 38 (50.7%) were previously unaware of their HIV status. Independent correlates of HIV infection included drug injection (AOR=4.26; 95% CI: 2.23–8.15), female gender (AOR=2.00; 95% CI: 1.06–3.78), previous incarceration (AOR=1.99; 95% CI: 1.07–3.70) and being from Southern Ukraine (AOR=5.46; 95% CI: 2.21–13.46). Those aware of being HIV-positive reported significantly more pre-incarceration sex- and drug-related HIV risk behaviours than those who were unaware. Conclusions Routine rather than risk-based HIV testing and expansion of opioid substitution and antiretroviral therapy among prisoners is urgently needed to reduce HIV transmission in volatile transitional HIV epidemics.
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