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Aggarwal A, Qiao S, O'Leary SD, Schlekat KN, Li X. Measurement Instruments Assessing Multi-Faceted Stigma Regarding Sexual and Gender Minorities: A Systematic Review of Psychometric Properties. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:2054-2077. [PMID: 38441698 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04305-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Stigma against sexual and gender minorities (SGM) populations has serious negative health effects for SGM populations. Despite the growing need for accurate stigma measurement in SGM, there are insufficient valid measurement instruments. Moreover, the lack of consistency in construct usage makes comparisons across studies particularly challenging. A critical review and comparative evaluation of the psychometric properties of the various stigma measures for SGM is necessary to advance our understanding regarding stigma measurement against/among SGMs. Based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in 4 bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science) for empirical articles published from 2010 to 2022 that evaluated the psychometrics properties of measurement instruments assessing stigma against SGMs. The screening, extraction, and scoring of the psychometric properties and methodological quality of selected instruments were performed by following the established standards and COSMIN (Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments) checklist, respectively. Of the 2031 studies identified, 19 studies were included that reported psychometric properties of 17 measurement instruments. All instruments, except two, were developed for SGMs (n = 15/17). Most instruments included men who have sex with men (MSM) or gay men (n = 11/15), whereas less than half of the instruments assessed stigma among SGM women (n = 6/15). Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) and content validity was reported for all instruments (n = 17); construct and structural validity was also reported for majority of the instruments (n = 15 and 10, respectively). However, test-retest reliability and criterion validity was reported for very few instruments (n = 5 each). Based on the COSMIN checklist, we identified the most psychometrically and methodologically robust instruments for each of the five stigma types: combined stigma, enacted stigma, internalized stigma, intersectional stigma, and perceived stigma. For each stigma type, except anticipated stigma, at least one instrument demonstrated strong promise for use in empirical research; however, the selection of instrument depends on the target population and context of the study. Findings indicated a growing use of instruments assessing multiple stigma types. Future studies need to develop intersectional stigma instruments that account for the multiple and intersecting social identities of SGMs. Additionally, most existing instruments would benefit from further psychometric testing, especially on test-retest reliability, criterion validity, adaptability to different LGBTQIA + populations and cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Aggarwal
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Shan Qiao
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA.
| | - Shannon D O'Leary
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Katrina N Schlekat
- Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina Honors College, Columbia, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
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Jing F, Ye Y, Zhou Y, Ni Y, Yan X, Lu Y, Ong J, Tucker JD, Wu D, Xiong Y, Xu C, He X, Huang S, Li X, Jiang H, Wang C, Dai W, Huang L, Mei W, Cheng W, Zhang Q, Tang W. Identification of Key Influencers for Secondary Distribution of HIV Self-Testing Kits Among Chinese Men Who Have Sex With Men: Development of an Ensemble Machine Learning Approach. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e37719. [PMID: 37995110 PMCID: PMC10704319 DOI: 10.2196/37719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV self-testing (HIVST) has been rapidly scaled up and additional strategies further expand testing uptake. Secondary distribution involves people (defined as "indexes") applying for multiple kits and subsequently sharing them with people (defined as "alters") in their social networks. However, identifying key influencers is difficult. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop an innovative ensemble machine learning approach to identify key influencers among Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM) for secondary distribution of HIVST kits. METHODS We defined three types of key influencers: (1) key distributors who can distribute more kits, (2) key promoters who can contribute to finding first-time testing alters, and (3) key detectors who can help to find positive alters. Four machine learning models (logistic regression, support vector machine, decision tree, and random forest) were trained to identify key influencers. An ensemble learning algorithm was adopted to combine these 4 models. For comparison with our machine learning models, self-evaluated leadership scales were used as the human identification approach. Four metrics for performance evaluation, including accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, were used to evaluate the machine learning models and the human identification approach. Simulation experiments were carried out to validate our approach. RESULTS We included 309 indexes (our sample size) who were eligible and applied for multiple test kits; they distributed these kits to 269 alters. We compared the performance of the machine learning classification and ensemble learning models with that of the human identification approach based on leadership self-evaluated scales in terms of the 2 nearest cutoffs. Our approach outperformed human identification (based on the cutoff of the self-reported scales), exceeding by an average accuracy of 11.0%, could distribute 18.2% (95% CI 9.9%-26.5%) more kits, and find 13.6% (95% CI 1.9%-25.3%) more first-time testing alters and 12.0% (95% CI -14.7% to 38.7%) more positive-testing alters. Our approach could also increase the simulated intervention's efficiency by 17.7% (95% CI -3.5% to 38.8%) compared to that of human identification. CONCLUSIONS We built machine learning models to identify key influencers among Chinese MSM who were more likely to engage in secondary distribution of HIVST kits. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) ChiCTR1900025433; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=42001.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengshi Jing
- Institute for Healthcare Artificial Intelligence Application, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Faculty of Data Science, City University of Macau, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Data Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yang Ye
- School of Data Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Center for Infectious Disease Modeling and Analysis, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Yuxin Ni
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Xumeng Yan
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ying Lu
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jason Ong
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Dan Wu
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Xiong
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Social Work, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Chen Xu
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi He
- Zhuhai Xutong Voluntary Services Center, Zhuhai, China
| | - Shanzi Huang
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Hongbo Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wencan Dai
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Liqun Huang
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Wenhua Mei
- Department of HIV Prevention, Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Weibin Cheng
- Institute for Healthcare Artificial Intelligence Application, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- School of Data Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Qingpeng Zhang
- Institute of Data Science and Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Weiming Tang
- Institute for Healthcare Artificial Intelligence Application, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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Luo Q, Wu Z, Mi G, Xu J, Scott SR. Using HIV Risk Self-Assessment Tools to Increase HIV Testing in Men Who Have Sex With Men in Beijing, China: App-Based Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e45262. [PMID: 37656500 PMCID: PMC10504623 DOI: 10.2196/45262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) in China hold a low-risk perception of acquiring HIV. This has resulted in an inadequate HIV testing rate. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate whether administering HIV risk self-assessments with tailored feedback on a gay geosocial networking (GSN) app could improve HIV testing rates and reduce sexual risk behaviors in Chinese MSM. METHODS We recruited MSM from Beijing, China, who used the GSN platform Blued in October 2017 in this 12-month double-blinded randomized controlled trial. From October 2017 to September 2018, eligible participants were randomly assigned to use a self-reported HIV risk assessment tool that provided tailored feedback according to transmission risk (group 1), access to the same HIV risk assessment without feedback (group 2), or government-recommended HIV education materials (control). All interventions were remotely delivered through the mobile phone-based app Blued, and participants were followed up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months from baseline. The number of HIV tests over the 12-month study was the primary outcome and was assessed using an intention-to-treat analysis with an incident rate ratio (IRR). Unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) over 6 months was assessed by a modified intention-to-treat analysis and was the secondary outcome. All statistical analyses were conducted in SAS 9.3 (SAS Institute, Inc.), and a P value <.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS In total, 9280 MSM were recruited from baseline and were randomly assigned to group 1 (n=3028), group 2 (n=3065), or controls (n=3187). After follow-up, 1034 (34.1%), 993 (32.4%), and 1103 (34.6%) remained in each group, respectively. Over 12 months, group 1 took 391 tests (mean of 2.51 tests per person), group 2 took 352 tests (mean of 2.01 tests per person), and controls took 295 tests (mean of 1.72 tests per person). Group 1 had significantly more HIV testing than the control group (IRR 1.32, 95% CI 1.09-4.58; P=.01), while group 2 did not differ significantly from the controls (IRR 1.06, 95% CI 0.86-1.30; P=.60). The proportion of UAI was not statistically different among different groups, but all 3 groups had UAI, which declined from baseline. CONCLUSIONS Repeated HIV risk assessments coupled with tailored feedback through GSN apps improved HIV testing. Such interventions should be considered a simple way of improving HIV testing among MSM in China and increasing awareness of HIV status. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03320239; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03320239.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Luo
- School of Nursing, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Zunyou Wu
- The National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Guodong Mi
- The National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
- Blued City Holdings, Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Xu
- The National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Sarah Robbins Scott
- The National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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Cao Q, Zhang Q, Chen Y, He Z, Xiang Z, Guan H, Yan N, Qiang Y, Li M. The relationship between non-suicidal self-injury and childhood abuse in transgender people: a cross-sectional cohort study. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1062601. [PMID: 37621935 PMCID: PMC10445944 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1062601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the relationship between non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and childhood abuse in transgender people and the mediating effect of emotional dysregulation traits in the association between childhood abuse and non-suicidal self-injury. Patients and methods From May to October 2021, 296 female-to-male (FTM) and 675 male-to-females (MTF), with age of 24.5 ± 6.4 years, were recruited using peer-driven sampling and anonymous questionnaires in Guangdong Province. The Childhood Abuse Questionnaire (CTQ-SF), the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire (PDQ-4+) emotion regulation ability scale and the DSM-5 Clinical Examination of Stereotypic Disorders were used to measure childhood abuse experiences, emotional dysregulation traits and self-injurious behaviour, respectively. Results Childhood abuse scores were positively correlated with both emotional dysregulation traits scores and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) behaviours (p < 0.01), and emotional dysregulation traits scores were positively correlated with NSSI behaviours (p < 0.01); emotional dysregulation traits partially mediated the association between childhood abuse and NSSI behaviours, with the mediating effect accounting for 23.23% of the total effect. In addition, among the factors of childhood abuse, emotional dysregulation traits mediated the association between emotional abuse, emotional neglect, sexual abuse, physical abuse, physical neglect and NSSI behaviour significantly, with the mediating effect accounting for 22.48%-32.58% of the total effect. Conclusion Transgender NSSI behaviours are associated with childhood abuse and emotional dysregulation traits, and emotional dysregulation traits partially mediates the association between childhood abuse and NSSI behaviours, and screening for emotional dysregulation traits in transgender people and timely interventions are needed to improve the current situation of discrimination against transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Cao
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- School of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Undergraduate Department, Taishan University, Taian, China
| | - Yuquan Chen
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zixu He
- Undergraduate Department, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Zhibiao Xiang
- Xiangya School of Medicine Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Haoran Guan
- School of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Na Yan
- School of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Yi Qiang
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Mantao Li
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
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Huang J, Jiang Y, Lin W, Chen R, Zhou J, Guo S, Zhao M, Xie Q, Chen X, Zhao M, Zhao Z, Yang B, Zheng J, Liao Y. Virulence and Adhesion of the Treponema pallidum Nichols Strain Simultaneously Decrease in a Continuous-Infection New Zealand White Rabbit Model. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:1221-1231. [PMID: 37192527 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by T. pallidum, and the T. pallidum Nichols strain is widely used with the New Zealand white rabbit model for evaluating drug and vaccine protection. However, changes in the virulence of T. pallidum during transmission are still unknown. Herein, we explored the virulence of T. pallidum in the rabbit model of continuous infection through phenotype observation and further investigated the relationship between virulence and adhesion. During the construction of the syphilis rabbit model, the optimal dose of 104/site of T. pallidum was determined to effectively observe the depiction of syphilis lesions and immune responses for further virulence evaluation. Its virulence was gradually weakened during the interaction with host cells or the testicular passage, which was also proven using the pathological phenotype of the syphilis rabbit model. In addition, the adhesive ability of T. pallidum was reduced with increasing generation, which was verified via the co-incubation of the pathogen with Sf1Ep cells. This study provides insight into the relationship by which the virulence and adhesion of T. pallidum were decreased in a New Zealand white rabbit model of continuous infection and contributes to our knowledge regarding the development of syphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialin Huang
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Yinbo Jiang
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Weiqiang Lin
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Rongyi Chen
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Jiajian Zhou
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Guo
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Minghai Zhao
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Qiulin Xie
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Xu Chen
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, P. R. China
| | - Meijiao Zhao
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Materials Interfaces Center, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Bin Yang
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Judun Zheng
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
| | - Yuhui Liao
- Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center for Infectious Diseases, Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, P. R. China
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, P. R. China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research, Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair Research, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, P. R. China
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Xia D, Chen Y, Chang R, Xu C, Yu X, Liu Y, Chen H, Wang R, Liu S, Ge X, Wang Y, Liang A, Hu F, Cai Y, Wang Y. Psychosocial Problems and Condomless Anal Sex among Transgender Women in Two Cities of China: Study Based on the Syndemic Framework. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16161. [PMID: 36498232 PMCID: PMC9737078 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Studies examining the association between psychosocial problems and condomless anal sex (CAS) among transgender women (TGW) are rare. In this study, close attention was paid to the effect of co-occurring psychosocial problems on sexual risk behaviors. A cross-sectional study, including 247 TGW, was conducted in Kunming and Shenyang, China. The prevalence of condomless anal sex among TGW in the previous 6 months was 30.8%. Most of the psychosocial factors were associated with one another in bivariate logistic regression models. Low self-esteem (ORm = 2.99, 95% CI = 1.25-7.18), sexual compulsivity (ORm = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.13-4.00), and intimate partner violence (ORm = 2.21, 95% CI = 1.19-4.11) were discovered to be related to condomless anal sex in the multivariate regression model. No significant interactive effects of the syndemic factors on condomless anal sex were detected. More programmatic and effective HIV prevention interventions targeting psychosocial problems are required to reduce HIV infection within the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danni Xia
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yingjie Chen
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ruijie Chang
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chen Xu
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaoyue Yu
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yujie Liu
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hui Chen
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Rongxi Wang
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Shangbin Liu
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xin Ge
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yuxuan Wang
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ajuan Liang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Fan Hu
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yong Cai
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 227, South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
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Shan D, Ning Z, Yu M, Zheng H, Yang J, Gong H, Li J, Liu H, Liu L, Wang V, Ran X, Han M, Zhang D. HIV incidence and risk factors among transgender women and cisgender men who have sex with men in two cities of China: a prospective cohort study. Infect Dis Poverty 2022; 11:26. [PMID: 35256001 PMCID: PMC8900389 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-022-00947-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSM) remains a major public health concern in China. Despite a growing body of research on transgender women worldwide, little is known about Chinese transgender women within MSM. We sought to estimate HIV incidence and distinguish risk factors of HIV acquisition among them from that among cisgener (non-transgender) MSM (cis-MSM). Methods We conducted an open cohort study among Chinese MSM, including those who were identified as transgender in Shanghai and Tianjin. Participants were initially recruited by local community-based organizations from January to June, 2016, and were followed up approximately every 6 months until June 2018. At each visit, a structured questionnaire was used to gather information on demographics, sexual risk behaviors, and HIV status. HIV incidence was calculated as the number of seroconversions divided by total number of person-years of follow-up among HIV-negatives at baseline. Risk factors of HIV acquisition were assessed by univariate and multivariate Cox regression models with time-dependent variables. Results A total of 1056 participants contributed 1260.53 person-years (PYs) of follow-up, 33 HIV seroconversions occurred during the follow-up period, yielding an estimated HIV incidence of 2.62 (95% CI 1.80–3.68) per 100 PYs. HIV incidence among transgender women was 4.42 per 100 PYs, which was significantly higher than that of 1.35 per 100 PYs among cis-MSM, demonstrating a threefold higher odds of HIV infection than cis-MSM. For transgender women, those lived locally ≤ 2 years (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.76, 95% CI 1.13–2.76) and unprotected anal sex last time (aHR = 4.22, 95% CI 1.82–9.79) were more likely to acquire HIV. For cis-MSM, factors associated with HIV acquisition were frequency of anal sex ≥ 3 times in past one month (aHR = 4.19, 95% CI 1.06–16.47) and unprotected anal sex last time (aHR = 5.33, 95% CI 1.52–18.73). Conclusions Compared to cis-MSM, transgender women were at higher risk of HIV acquisition, highlighting an urgent need of tailored prevention. Future HIV program should consider to include them to ensure that this population in China are not left behind. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40249-022-00947-3.
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8
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Jing F, Zhang Q, Ong JJ, Xie Y, Ni Y, Cheng M, Huang S, Zhou Y, Tang W. Optimal resource allocation in HIV self-testing secondary distribution among Chinese MSM: data-driven integer programming models. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2022; 380:20210128. [PMID: 34802269 PMCID: PMC8607151 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2021.0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus self-testing (HIVST) is an innovative and effective strategy important to the expansion of HIV testing coverage. Several innovative implementations of HIVST have been developed and piloted among some HIV high-risk populations like men who have sex with men (MSM) to meet the global testing target. One innovative strategy is the secondary distribution of HIVST, in which individuals (defined as indexes) were given multiple testing kits for both self-use (i.e.self-testing) and distribution to other people in their MSM social network (defined as alters). Studies about secondary HIVST distribution have mainly concentrated on developing new intervention approaches to further increase the effectiveness of this relatively new strategy from the perspective of traditional public health discipline. There are many points of HIVST secondary distribution in which mathematical modelling can play an important role. In this study, we considered secondary HIVST kits distribution in a resource-constrained situation and proposed two data-driven integer linear programming models to maximize the overall economic benefits of secondary HIVST kits distribution based on our present implementation data from Chinese MSM. The objective function took expansion of normal alters and detection of positive and newly-tested 'alters' into account. Based on solutions from solvers, we developed greedy algorithms to find final solutions for our linear programming models. Results showed that our proposed data-driven approach could improve the total health economic benefit of HIVST secondary distribution. This article is part of the theme issue 'Data science approaches to infectious disease surveillance'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengshi Jing
- Institute for Healthcare Artificial Intelligence, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, People’s Republic of China
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- School of Data Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingpeng Zhang
- School of Data Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jason J. Ong
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yewei Xie
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yuxin Ni
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengyuan Cheng
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shanzi Huang
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, People's Republic of China
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weiming Tang
- Institute for Healthcare Artificial Intelligence, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, People’s Republic of China
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, UNC School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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9
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Sha Y, Dong W, Tang W, Zheng L, Huang X, Muessig KE, Tucker JD. Gender minority stress and access to health care services among transgender women and transfeminine people: results from a cross-sectional study in China. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1065. [PMID: 34649507 PMCID: PMC8514805 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06782-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transgender and gender diverse individuals often face structural barriers to health care because of their gender minority status. The aim of this study was to examine the association between gender minority stress and access to specific health care services among transgender women and transfeminine people in China. Methods This multicenter cross-sectional study recruited participants between January 1st and June 30th 2020. Eligible participants were 18 years or older, assigned male at birth, not currently identifying as male, and living in China. Gender minority stress was measured using 45 items adapted from validated subscales. We examined access to health care services and interventions relevant to transgender and gender diverse people, including gender affirming interventions (hormones, surgeries), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Multivariable regression was used to measure correlations between gender minority stress and access to health care service. Results Three hundred and twenty-four people completed a survey and data from 277 (85.5%) people were analyzed. The mean age was 29 years old (standard deviation [SD] = 8). Participants used hormones (118/277, 42.6%), gender affirming surgery (26/277, 9.4%), HIV testing (220/277, 79.4%), STI testing (132/277, 47.7%), PrEP (24/276, 8.7%), and PEP (29/267, 10.9%). Using gender affirming hormones was associated with higher levels of discrimination (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17–1.70) and internalized transphobia (aOR 1.06, 95%CI 1.00–1.12). STI testing was associated with lower levels of internalized transphobia (aOR 0.91, 95%CI 0.84–0.98). Conclusions Our data suggest that gender minority stress is closely related to using health services. Stigma reduction interventions and gender-affirming medical support are needed to improve transgender health. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06782-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Sha
- University of North Carolina Project - China, 7 Lujing Road, Guangzhou, 510091, Guangdong, China
| | - Willa Dong
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina Project - China, 7 Lujing Road, Guangzhou, 510091, Guangdong, China. .,School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Lingling Zheng
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Huang
- Trans Well-being Team, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project - China, 7 Lujing Road, Guangzhou, 510091, Guangdong, China. .,School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA. .,Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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10
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Wu D, Zhou Y, Yang N, Huang S, He X, Tucker J, Li X, Smith KM, Ritchwood T, Jiang X, Liu X, Wang Y, Huang W, Ong J, Fu H, Bao H, Pan S, Dai W, Tang W. Social Media-Based Secondary Distribution of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Syphilis Self-testing Among Chinese Men Who Have Sex with Men. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e2251-e2257. [PMID: 32588883 PMCID: PMC8492201 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media and secondary distribution (distributing self-testing kits by indexes through their networks) both show strong promise to improve human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) self-testing uptake. We assessed an implementation program in Zhuhai, China, which focused on the secondary distribution of HIV/syphilis self-test kits among men who have sex with men (MSM) via social media. METHODS Men aged ≥16 years, born biologically male, and ever had sex with another man were recruited as indexes. Banner ads on a social media platform invited the participants to apply for up to 5 self-test kits every 3 months. Index men paid a deposit of US$15/kit refundable upon submitting a photograph of a completed test result via an online submission system. They were informed that they could distribute the kits to others (referred to as "alters"). RESULTS A total of 371 unique index men applied for 1150 kits (mean age, 28.7 [standard deviation, 6.9] years), of which 1141 test results were returned (99%). Among them, 1099 were valid test results; 810 (74%) were from 331 unique index men, and 289 tests (26%) were from 281 unique alters. Compared to index men, a higher proportion of alters were naive HIV testers (40% vs 21%; P < .001). The total HIV self-test reactivity rate was 3%, with alters having a significantly higher rate than indexes (5% vs 2%; P = .008). A total of 21 people (3%) had a reactive syphilis test result. CONCLUSIONS Integrating social media with the secondary distribution of self-test kits may hold promise to increase HIV/syphilis testing coverage and case identification among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wu
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Insititute of Global Health and Sexually Transmitted Infection Research, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Nancy Yang
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Shanzi Huang
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xi He
- Zhuhai Xutong Voluntary Services Center, Zhuhai, China
| | - Joseph Tucker
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- University of North Carolina Project–China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Kumi M Smith
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tiarney Ritchwood
- Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Xuan Liu
- University of North Carolina Project–China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yehua Wang
- University of North Carolina Project–China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenting Huang
- Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Georgia, Atlanta, USA
| | - Jason Ong
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hongyun Fu
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Huanyu Bao
- University of North Carolina Project–China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Stephen Pan
- Department of Health and Environmental Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wencan Dai
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiming Tang
- Insititute of Global Health and Sexually Transmitted Infection Research, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project–China, Guangzhou, China
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11
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Tsang EYH. A Sisterhood of Hope: How China's Transgender Sex Workers Cope with Intimate Partner Violence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7959. [PMID: 33138225 PMCID: PMC7672577 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Transgender sex workers (TSWs/TSW) face considerable challenges that affect their mental health and make their situations more vulnerable and precarious. TSWs often experience violence from clients, police, and others, but it is estimated that 50% of these acts of violence are at the hands of their intimate partners. The marginalization of TSWs is fueled by abuse through isolation and shaming which prevents them from seeking help through formal channels like police or counselling services. There is limited research on intimate partner violence (IPV) involving transgender sex workers (biologically male at birth who transition to women) and their partners who are typically heterosexual/bisexual men. In China, stigmatization, homophobia, heterosexism, and transphobia structurally disadvantage TSWs and this power structure tacitly supports violence and abuse against them. To survive, TSWs rely on informal networks with their 'sisters' for advice and emotional support which is more effective at combatting IPV than criminal justice or social policy efforts. Ethnographic data from in-depth interviews with 25 TSWs provide insight about IPV and how informal social support is a protective factor that helps them cope with routine acts of violence. The findings identify the importance of the 'sisterhood' and how it protects and helps TSWs manage their physical and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen Yuk-Ha Tsang
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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12
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Turpin R, Rosario AD, Dyer T. Barriers to syphilis testing among men who have sex with men: a systematic review of the literature. Sex Health 2020; 17:201-213. [PMID: 32586417 DOI: 10.1071/sh19044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) represent the highest risk group for syphilis in the United States and several other countries. Improving uptake of syphilis testing among MSM requires understanding key barriers to testing in this population. Using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic review to assess proportions of syphilis testing among MSM and identify social, structural, and individual barriers to syphilis testing was conducted. All searches were conducted through the University of Maryland world catalogue search engine. Studies that measured syphilis testing in a sample of MSM were included. All studies were assessed for bias using JBI-MAStARI instruments. Studies were synthesised based on sample size, years of data collection, study selection method (e.g. hospital or clinic-based, community/venue-based), location (e.g. USA-based, other countries) and results of the bias assessment. For studies measuring barriers associated with testing, the measure of association, point estimate and statistical significance was assessed. Of 848 studies found in the initial search, 24 were included in the final review. The largest difference in syphilis testing proportions was based on hospital or clinic-based sampling (50-87%) compared with venue/community-based and online sampling (31-38%). Socioeconomic factors (four items, four studies, OR 0.23 to 0.68), healthcare interactions six items, five studies, OR 0.09 to 0.69) and community/interpersonal factors (seven items, five studies, OR 0.07 to 0.58) were identified as barriers to testing. Barriers to syphilis testing among MSM include socioeconomic factors, healthcare-related factors and community/interpersonal factors. Improving overall routine utilisation of healthcare services is an especially important focal point in testing promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodman Turpin
- University of Maryland, College Park, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, 4200 Valley Drive #2242, College Park, MD 20742, USA; and Corresponding author.
| | - Andre D Rosario
- Howard University Hospital, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 2041 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20060, USA
| | - Typhanye Dyer
- University of Maryland, College Park, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, 4200 Valley Drive #2242, College Park, MD 20742, USA
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13
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Li H, Tucker JD, Ma W, Kim ES, Marley G, Kang D, Liao M, Tang W, Jiang B. Growth Trajectories of Peer Norms, Self-efficacy and Condom Use Behavior Among Sexually Active Chinese Men Who Have Sex with Men: Latent Class Analysis and Growth Mixture Modeling. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:854-865. [PMID: 31016503 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02515-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Data from a randomized controlled trial in 2015 were used to estimate the growth trajectories of peer norms, self-efficacy, and condom use behavior, and to identify associated sociodemographic and behavioral factors among a sample of 804 Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM). Latent class analysis and growth mixture modeling were conducted using Mplus. Two growth trajectories were estimated for each outcome variable with good model fit. The growth trajectories of peer norms were related to age (β = - 0.066, p < 0.05). The growth trajectories of self-efficacy were related to age (β = 0.057, p < 0.01) and using a condom during first sexual encounter with another man (β = 0.777, p < 0.001). The growth trajectories of condom use behavior were related to income (β = 0.366, p < 0.01) and having casual male partners (β = - 1.016, p < 0.001). Predictors for the growth factors within each latent class were also estimated. For subsets of MSM who are older, richer, used a condom during their first sexual encounter with another man, and do not have a casual male partner, condom videos may not have sufficient efficacy and other interventions may be necessary.
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14
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Smith MK, Wei C, Liu C, Pan SW, Ong JJ, Tucker JD. Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation in Chinese Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Latent Class Analysis. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:721-731. [PMID: 31571020 PMCID: PMC7035172 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01481-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are a diverse population yet are often treated as a monolithic risk group. In China, MSM have long been characterized as a "bridge population" of closeted men who are married to (or will marry) women due to sociocultural expectations. Latent class models can inform a more nuanced yet empirical characterization of this population. In total, 1424 eligible respondents recruited online provided self-reported behavioral data. Nine items related to constructs including sexual behaviors, sexual orientation, and gender identity informed the latent class model. Logistic regression was used to measure associations between latent class membership and HIV-related sexual and health-seeking behaviors. Model fit indicated a population structure made up of four classes that we characterized as "Gender nonconforming" (4.3%), "Closeted-unmarried" (29.9%), "Closeted-married" (24.6%), and "Out" (41.2%). Members of the "gender nonconforming" class were more likely to report HIV-related risk behaviors, and "Closeted-unmarried" class members were less likely to report health-seeking behaviors, both relative to "Out" members. The largest latent class was made up of members of the "Out" class, an enlightening revision of a population traditionally viewed as largely closeted men. Two types of "closeted" classes emerged, distinguished by divergent tendencies regarding marriage and health seeking. Findings suggest that current understandings of Chinese MSM are simplistic (regarding closeted behaviors) and too narrow (in its definition of MSM as cisgender men). A more nuanced understanding of MSM subgroups and their heterogeneous risk behaviors will be critical for provision of more meaningful prevention services.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kumi Smith
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA.
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Chongyi Wei
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior and Prevention Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Chuncheng Liu
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Sociology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Stephen W Pan
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Xi'an Jiatong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jason J Ong
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England, UK
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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15
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Yan ZH, Lin J, Xiao WJ, Lin KM, McFarland W, Yan HJ, Wilson E. Identity, stigma, and HIV risk among transgender women: a qualitative study in Jiangsu Province, China. Infect Dis Poverty 2019; 8:94. [PMID: 31785621 PMCID: PMC6885322 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-019-0606-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender women have multiple disparities globally, including social rejection and stigma, HIV infection and untreated mental health problems. However, few data on transgender women are available in China. Therefore, this study aimed to explore transgender women's experiences on gender identity, disclosure, discrimination, transgender-specific medical care, and perceptions of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI) risk in China. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted in Nanjing and Suzhou city, China in 2018. Key informant interviews (n = 14) and focus group discussions (n = 2) with diverse transgender women were implemented. Text was transcribed and translated, and Dedoose™ software was used for coding, analysis and interpretation by the research team. RESULTS Chinese transgender women share experiences with transgender women worldwide, including a long and challenging identity search, stigma and discrimination, poor access to trans-specific services and unmet needs for mental health care. Features unique to them include terms used for self-identification, culturally-shaped expectations for reproduction, and ideals of placing the familial and societal welfare over personal fulfillment. Social networks of this population appear sparse, scattered, and underground. Familial rejection was experienced by nearly all respondents. Perceptions of HIV and STI risk and history of HIV testing were notably low. CONCLUSIONS Transgender women in China face high social rejection and discrimination along with unmet need for various types of healthcare. Scaling up transgender-specific services including gender-affirming medical care, mental health care and HIV/STI prevention are warranted to address the social, medical and mental health of transgender women in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Han Yan
- 0000 0001 2181 7878grid.47840.3fUniversity of California, Berkeley, USA
| | - Jessica Lin
- 0000 0004 0461 9142grid.410359.aSan Francisco Department of Public Health, 25 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 710, San Francisco, CA 94102-6033 USA
| | - Wen-Jing Xiao
- 0000 0000 8803 2373grid.198530.6Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 172 Jiangsu Road, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 Jiangsu China ,0000 0000 9255 8984grid.89957.3aNanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Keh-Ming Lin
- 0000 0000 9632 6718grid.19006.3eUniversity of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Willi McFarland
- 0000 0004 0461 9142grid.410359.aSan Francisco Department of Public Health, 25 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 710, San Francisco, CA 94102-6033 USA ,0000 0001 2297 6811grid.266102.1University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Hong-Jing Yan
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 172 Jiangsu Road, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Erin Wilson
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, 25 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 710, San Francisco, CA, 94102-6033, USA. .,University of California, San Francisco, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This study aims to review the history of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection epidemic in China. RECENT FINDINGS The HIV infection epidemic in China has evolved significantly over the past 35 years, from initially exclusively within people who inject drugs (PWID), to outbreaks due to plasma collection contamination in the mid-1990s, to now almost exclusive transmission via sexual contact. The number of newly-diagnosed cases and the number HIV-related deaths have increased each year since 2004, coinciding with a massive scale-up of both HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy initiation. The proportion of cases diagnosed later in their disease progression has remained constant. The initial outbreaks of HIV across China were identified quickly and the overall trends have been monitored. While the HIV epidemic among PWID has been well managed, the growing HIV epidemic via sexual contact has grown more complex and even more difficult to control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zunyou Wu
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China.
- University of California, California, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Junfang Chen
- Hangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sarah Robbins Scott
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Jennifer M McGoogan
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, China
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Sullivan P, Trinidad J, Hamann D. Issues in transgender dermatology: A systematic review of the literature. J Am Acad Dermatol 2019; 81:438-447. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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18
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McNulty A, Bourne C. Transgender HIV and sexually transmissible infections. Sex Health 2019; 14:451-455. [PMID: 28838351 DOI: 10.1071/sh17050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Transgender women across a range of different populations and settings have a high prevalence of HIV infection. There are fewer and often poorer quality studies of sexually transmissible infection (STI) prevalence. There are fewer studies in transgender men and, in general, the prevalence of HIV and STIs is lower than that of transgender women. Susceptibility to HIV and STI infection is inextricably linked to the increased vulnerability of transgender populations, a consequence of a lack of legal and social recognition that results in reduced access to educational and employment opportunities, which can result in high rates of transactional sex. Other measures of disadvantage, such as substance abuse and mental health problems, also increase the risk of HIV and STIs and have an effect on access to health care, highlighting the need for transgender-friendly multidisciplinary services offering individualised risk assessment, prevention advice and testing for STI and HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna McNulty
- Sydney Sexual Health Centre, GPO 1614, Sydney, Australia
| | - Chris Bourne
- Sydney Sexual Health Centre, GPO 1614, Sydney, Australia
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19
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Vaitses Fontanari AM, Zanella GI, Feijó M, Churchill S, Rodrigues Lobato MI, Costa AB. HIV-related care for transgender people: A systematic review of studies from around the world. Soc Sci Med 2019; 230:280-294. [PMID: 31035207 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2019.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Transgender people face unique challenges, such as structural, interpersonal, and individual vulnerabilities to chronic diseases. Stigma and prejudice may hamper their access to health care and prevent their inclusion in the labor market, as well as cause exposition to violence. Labor market exclusion contributes to engagement in survival sex work, which increases HIV infection vulnerability. HIV continuum of care combines HIV prevention (including antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), antiretroviral post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and HIV testing) with linkage to care (that is, initiating, maintaining and monitoring antiretroviral therapy). Currently, many studies evaluate the access barriers and facilitators to HIV care for transgender people. OBJECTIVE The present systematic review aimed to provide a clear summary of the current literature on HIV-related care for transgender men, transgender women and gender diverse people. METHOD Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed quantitative studies, published through April 04, 2018, concerning transgender women, transgender men and gender diverse people and HIV-related care, which was any intervention aiming to prevent, treat or alleviate the impact of HIV on these populations. RESULTS From 6,585 references, 62 articles were included: Three articles had results on PEP, 18 on PrEP, 29 on HIV-testing, 17 on access to health care, and 13 on adherence to treatment. CONCLUSIONS The present study is the first systematic review evaluating HIV-related care for transgender people. Data collection is still scarce regarding transgender men and gender diverse people. Worldwide, testing for HIV infection does not necessarily enable access to the HIV continuum of care for transgender populations or even guarantee awareness of HIV seropositivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Martha Vaitses Fontanari
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | | | - Marina Feijó
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Inês Rodrigues Lobato
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Suicidal ideation and attempted suicide amongst Chinese transgender persons: National population study. J Affect Disord 2019; 245:1126-1134. [PMID: 30699856 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to understand suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among transgender individuals through an in-depth analysis of a nation-wide population general survey in China. METHODS Transgender Men (TM) and Women (TW) were investigated through a cross-sectional survey. A structured questionnaire was used to investigate participants' demographic information, perceived sexuality conflicts, childhood adversity and mental health conditions. Logistic regression models were utilized to investigate risk factors associated with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in these groups. We also conducted a quasi-meta-analysis in order to compare the prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempted suicide between general and transgender populations in China. RESULTS A total of 1309 participants across 32 provinces and municipalities in China took part in this survey, out of 2060 valid questionnaires. In this transgender population, the lifetime prevalence of suicidal ideation and an attempt at suicide were 56.4% and 16.1%, respectively. This estimated prevalence rate is far greater than in Chinese community samples. For all transgender people, disliking birth-assigned sex, seeking sex reassignment surgery, having intense conflicts with parents, lifetime history of suffering from major depressive disorder, a recent episode of depression, self-harm, and seeking mental health services were significantly associated with increased risk of suicidal ideation. An education level of high school or equivalent, being married and/or separated/divorced, having intense conflicts with parents, or self-harm and seeking mental health services were all significantly associated with increased risk of suicide attempt. Although most risk factors for TM and TW were equivalent across groups, differences were observed in both suicidal ideation and suicide attempt models. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional study design and lack of follow-up data are limitations of this study. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to examine suicide within a Chinese transgender population. The clinical implications of these findings for Chinese mental health professionals are discussed. Also, the evidence from this study can be used to inform the practices of suicide prevention workers, and policy makers working with the transgender population.
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Wu D, Tang W, Lu H, Zhang TP, Cao B, Ong JJ, Lee A, Liu C, Huang W, Fu R, Li K, Pan SW, Zhang Y, Fu H, Wei C, Tucker JD. Leading by Example: Web-Based Sexual Health Influencers Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Have Higher HIV and Syphilis Testing Rates in China. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e10171. [PMID: 30664490 PMCID: PMC6360381 DOI: 10.2196/10171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The spread of healthy behaviors through social networks may be accelerated by influential individuals. Previous studies have used lay health influencers to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among internet-using men who have sex with men (MSM). However, there is a lack of understanding of the characteristics of this key subset of MSM. Objective This study aimed to examine sociodemographic characteristics, HIV and syphilis testing, and sexual behaviors of Web-based MSM sexual health influencers (SHIs) in China, defined as individuals with relatively stronger influence on spreading HIV and STI information online. Methods A Web-based survey of MSM was conducted in August 2017 as a final follow-up of a randomized controlled trial promoting HIV testing in 8 Chinese cities. Men were recruited through a gay social networking mobile phone app and were included if they were born biologically male, aged 16 years and above, ever had sex with another man, and HIV negative or with unknown HIV status. Information regarding sociodemographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, and HIV and syphilis testing was obtained. We assessed men’s Web-based sexual health influence using a standardized 6-item opinion leadership scale focused on HIV and STI information. Influencers were defined as those whose mean score ranked within the top 13% (a higher score means greater influence). We used multivariable linear and logistic regression models to measure Web-based sexual health influence’s association with HIV and syphilis testing, controlling for intervention trial effects, age, education, income, and marital status. Results Overall, 1031 men completed the survey. Most men were younger than 30 years (819/1031, 79.43%) and had at least college education (667/1031, 64.69%). Influencers were more likely to get tested for HIV (73/132, 55.3% vs 337/899, 37.5%; P<.001) and syphilis (35/132, 26.5% vs 137/899, 15.2%; P=.001) in the last 3 months compared with noninfluencers. There were no significant differences in condomless sex with male partners (26/132, 19.7% vs 203/899, 22.6%; P=.46), mean number of male sex partners (1.32 vs 1.11; P=.16) in the last 3 months, and mainly meeting male sex partners online in the last 12 months (97/132, 73.5% vs 669/899, 74.4%; P=.82) between influencers and noninfluencers. Regression analyses showed that influencers had higher odds of HIV testing (adjusted odds ratio, AOR 2.16, 95% CI 1.48-3.17) and syphilis testing (AOR 1.99, 95% CI 1.28-3.10) in the last 3 months. Conclusions We identified Web-based SHIs who might be more likely to help promote healthy HIV and syphilis testing behaviors through MSM populations. Leveraging existing influencers may help improve HIV and syphilis testing among their networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wu
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Weiming Tang
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haidong Lu
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Tiange P Zhang
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Bolin Cao
- School of Media and Communication, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jason J Ong
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Monash, Australia
| | - Amy Lee
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuncheng Liu
- Department of Sociology, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Wenting Huang
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Fu
- Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Katherine Li
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Stephen W Pan
- Department of Health and Environmental Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hongyun Fu
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Chongyi Wei
- Department of Social and Behavior Health Sciences, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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22
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Wong WCW, Lo YR, Jiang S, Peng M, Zhu S, Kidd MR, Wang XC, Chan PL, Ong JJ. Improving the hepatitis cascade: assessing hepatitis testing and its management in primary health care in China. Fam Pract 2018; 35:731-737. [PMID: 29741661 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmy032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to decentralize hepatitis testing and management services to primary care in China. METHODS A nationwide representative provider survey amongst community health centres (CHCs) using randomized stratified sampling methods was conducted between September and December 2015. One hundred and eighty CHCs and frontline primary care practitioners from 20 cities across three administrative regions of Western, Central and Eastern China were invited to participate. RESULTS One hundred and forty-nine clinicians-in-charge (79%), 1734 doctors and 1846 nurses participated (86%). Majority of CHCs (80%, 95% CI: 74-87) offered hepatitis B testing, but just over half (55%, 95% CI: 46-65) offered hepatitis C testing. The majority of doctors (87%) and nurses (85%) felt that there were benefits for providing hepatitis testing at CHCs. The major barriers for not offering hepatitis testing were lack of training (54%) and financial support (23%). Multivariate analysis showed that the major determinants for CHCs to offer hepatitis B and C testing were the number of nurses (AOR 1.1) and written policies for hepatitis B diagnosis (AOR 12.7-27.1), and for hepatitis B the availability of reproductive health service. CONCLUSIONS Primary care providers in China could play a pivotal role in screening, diagnosing and treating millions of people with chronic hepatitis B and C in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- William C W Wong
- University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ying-Ru Lo
- Head of Mission and WHO Representative to Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore
| | - Sunfang Jiang
- Department of General Practice, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minghui Peng
- Department of General Practice, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shanzhu Zhu
- Department of General Practice, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Michael R Kidd
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada.,Southgate Institute for Health, Equity and Society, Flinders University, Australia
| | - Xia-Chun Wang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Prevention and Control, China Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Po-Lin Chan
- World Health Organization, Office of the Representative to China
| | - Jason J Ong
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Wang Z, Lau JTF, Yang X, Cai Y, Gross DL, Ma T, Liu Y. Acceptability of Daily Use of Free Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Among Transgender Women Sex Workers in Shenyang, China. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:3287-3298. [PMID: 28752354 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1869-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the acceptability of daily use of free oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and associated factors among transgender women sex workers in Shenyang, China, following a briefing on PrEP. A total of 183 HIV negative or sero-status unknown participants completed the cross-sectional survey. The prevalence of acceptability of daily use of free oral PrEP was 61.2%. Adjusting for education level and monthly income, variables on negative attitudes toward PrEP (i.e., having concerns about the side-effects of PrEP) [Adjusted odds ratios (AOR): 0.26], perceived subjective norms (i.e., perceiving support from male partners to take PrEP) (AOR: 2.08), and perceived behavioral control (e.g., perceiving complete control over using PrEP) (AOR: 2.10-16.72) were significantly associated with acceptability of daily use of free oral PrEP. In addition, experiencing violence during sex work, perceived risk of contracting HIV from clients and probable anxiety were also significant. Future PrEP promotion campaigns should consider these factors.
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24
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Tucker JD. Crowdsourcing to promote HIV testing among MSM in China: study protocol for a stepped wedge randomized controlled trial. Trials 2017; 18:447. [PMID: 28969702 PMCID: PMC5625620 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-017-2183-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV testing for marginalized populations is critical to controlling the HIV epidemic. However, the HIV testing rate among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China remains low. Crowdsourcing, the process of shifting individual tasks to a group, has been increasingly adopted in public health programs and may be a useful tool for spurring innovation in HIV testing campaigns. We designed a multi-site study to develop a crowdsourced HIV test promotion campaign and evaluate its effectiveness against conventional campaigns among MSM in China. Methods This study will use an adaptation of the stepped wedge, randomized controlled trial design. A total of eight major metropolitan cities in China will be randomized to sequentially initiate interventions at 3-month intervals. The intervention uses crowdsourcing at multiple steps to sustain crowd contribution. Approximately 1280 MSM, who are 16 years of age or over, live in the intervention city, have not been tested for HIV in the past 3 months, and are not living with HIV, will be recruited. Recruitment will take place through banner advertisements on a large gay dating app along with other social media platforms. Participants will complete one follow-up survey every 3 months for 12 months to evaluate their HIV testing uptake in the past 3 months and secondary outcomes including syphilis testing, sex without condoms, community engagement, testing stigma, and other related outcomes. Discussion MSM HIV testing rates remain poor in China. Innovative methods to promote HIV testing are urgently needed. With a large-scale, stepped wedge, randomized controlled trial our study can improve understanding of crowdsourcing’s long-term effectiveness in public health campaigns, expand HIV testing coverage among a key population, and inform intervention design in related public health fields. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02796963. Registered on 23 May 2016. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-017-2183-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Project-China, No. 2 Lujing Road, Guangzhou, 510095, China.
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25
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Community engagement in sexual health and uptake of HIV testing and syphilis testing among MSM in China: a cross-sectional online survey. J Int AIDS Soc 2017. [PMID: 28406270 PMCID: PMC5515028 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.01/21372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV and syphilis testing rates remain low among men who have sex with men (MSM) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Community engagement has been increasingly used to promote HIV testing among key populations in high-income countries, often in settings with stronger civil society. This study aimed to assess socio-demographic, behavioural, and community engagement factors associated with HIV and syphilis testing among MSM in China. METHODS MSM ≥16 years old who had condomless sex in the past three months were recruited nationwide to complete a cross-sectional online survey in November 2015. Data were collected on socio-demographics, sexual behaviours, HIV testing, syphilis testing, and community engagement in sexual health. We defined community engagement in sexual health using six items assessing awareness and advocacy of sexual health programmes. The underlying factor structure of a 6-item community engagement scale was determined through exploratory factor analysis. Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions identified correlates of HIV and syphilis testing. RESULTS 1189 MSM were recruited. 54% (647/1189) of men had ever tested for HIV and 30% (354/1189) had ever tested for syphilis. Factor analysis suggested three levels of community engagement (minimal, moderate, and substantial) and this model explained 79.5% of observed variance. A quarter (26%, 312/1189) reported none to minimal engagement, over one half (54%, 644/1189) reported moderate engagement, and a fifth (20%, 233/1189) reported substantial engagement. Multivariable logistic regression showed that MSM with greater community engagement in sexual health were more likely to have ever tested for HIV (substantial vs. no engagement: aOR 7.91, 95% CI 4.98-12.57) and for syphilis (substantial vs. no engagement: aOR 5.35, 95% CI 3.16-9.04). CONCLUSION HIV and syphilis testing are suboptimal among MSM in China. Community engagement may be useful for promoting testing in China and should be considered in intervention development and delivery. Further research is needed to better understand the role of LMIC community engagement in HIV interventions.
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26
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Community engagement in sexual health and uptake of HIV testing and syphilis testing among MSM in China: a cross-sectional online survey. J Int AIDS Soc 2017; 20:21372. [PMID: 28406270 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.01.21372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV and syphilis testing rates remain low among men who have sex with men (MSM) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Community engagement has been increasingly used to promote HIV testing among key populations in high-income countries, often in settings with stronger civil society. This study aimed to assess socio-demographic, behavioural, and community engagement factors associated with HIV and syphilis testing among MSM in China. METHODS MSM ≥16 years old who had condomless sex in the past three months were recruited nationwide to complete a cross-sectional online survey in November 2015. Data were collected on socio-demographics, sexual behaviours, HIV testing, syphilis testing, and community engagement in sexual health. We defined community engagement in sexual health using six items assessing awareness and advocacy of sexual health programmes. The underlying factor structure of a 6-item community engagement scale was determined through exploratory factor analysis. Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions identified correlates of HIV and syphilis testing. RESULTS 1189 MSM were recruited. 54% (647/1189) of men had ever tested for HIV and 30% (354/1189) had ever tested for syphilis. Factor analysis suggested three levels of community engagement (minimal, moderate, and substantial) and this model explained 79.5% of observed variance. A quarter (26%, 312/1189) reported none to minimal engagement, over one half (54%, 644/1189) reported moderate engagement, and a fifth (20%, 233/1189) reported substantial engagement. Multivariable logistic regression showed that MSM with greater community engagement in sexual health were more likely to have ever tested for HIV (substantial vs. no engagement: aOR 7.91, 95% CI 4.98-12.57) and for syphilis (substantial vs. no engagement: aOR 5.35, 95% CI 3.16-9.04). CONCLUSION HIV and syphilis testing are suboptimal among MSM in China. Community engagement may be useful for promoting testing in China and should be considered in intervention development and delivery. Further research is needed to better understand the role of LMIC community engagement in HIV interventions.
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27
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Tang W, Huang S, Chen L, Yang L, Tucker JD, Zheng H, Yang B. Late Neurosyphilis and Tertiary Syphilis in Guangdong Province, China: Results from a Cross-sectional Study. Sci Rep 2017; 7:45339. [PMID: 28338084 PMCID: PMC5364404 DOI: 10.1038/srep45339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to challenges in diagnosis and the need for complex laboratory tests, misdiagnosis of neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis is common in China. We validated the diagnosis and examined the treatment of late neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis in Guangdong Province, China. A cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data from late neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis cases reported between 2009 and 2014 in Guangdong, China. Descriptive analysis, bivariate analyses and multiple logistic regressions were performed to determine the structural factors associated with correct diagnosis and standard treatment of late neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis. Among the 3805 respondents (3805/3936, 96.7%), 1,837 (48.3%) met the misdiagnosed criteria. The misdiagnosis rate decreased over the study period (54.2% in 2009 and 41.8% in 2014). Only 27.1% and 24.9% of the correctly diagnosed late neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis cases received standard treatment, respectively. Multiple logistic regression revealed that departments of dermatology or STDs [aOR = 3.24, 95% CI: 2.66-3.95], county or township level hospitals [aOR = 2.89, 95% CI: 2.14-3.89], and hospitals situated outside of Pearl River Delta area [aOR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.46-1.97] had higher likelihood in misdiagnosis of neurosyphilis, compared to the reference groups. Targeted trainings for physicians and expanded syphilis screening services are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China.,University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shujie Huang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ligang Yang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Heping Zheng
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
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28
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Zhang Y, Best J, Tang W, Tso LS, Liu F, Huang S, Zheng H, Yang B, Wei C, Tucker JD. Transgender sexual health in China: a cross-sectional online survey in China. Sex Transm Infect 2016; 92:515-519. [PMID: 27052037 PMCID: PMC5053843 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2015-052350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Transgender individuals are at increased risk for HIV infection around the world, yet few studies have focused on transgender individuals in China. We conducted an online cross-sectional survey of men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender individuals to examine sociodemographics, intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual behaviours in China. METHODS We recruited participants (born biologically male, ≥16 years old, ever engaged in anal sex with men and agreed to provide cell phone number) from three web platforms in 2014. Data on sociodemographics, IPV and sexual behaviours were collected. Logistic regressions were performed to compare the differences between transgender individuals and non-transgender MSM. RESULTS Overall, 1424 eligible participants completed our online survey. Of these participants, 61 (4.3%) were transgender individuals, including 28 (2.0%) identifying as women and 33 (2.3%) identifying as transgender. Compared with MSM, transgender individuals were more likely to have experienced IPV and sexual violence (economic abuse, physical abuse, threat to harm loved ones, threat to 'out', forced sex). In addition, transgender individuals were more likely to have engaged in commercial sex (21.3% vs 5.1%, aOR 4.80, 95% CI 2.43 to 9.51) and group sex (26.2% vs 9.2%, aOR 3.47, 95% CI 1.58 to 6.48) in the last 12 months. CONCLUSIONS Our study is consistent with the emerging literature demonstrating increased sexual risk behaviours and high levels of IPV among transgender individuals. Future research should further investigate transgender individuals' experiences of IPV and explore ways to promote disclosure of gender identity to healthcare providers. Furthermore, transgender research in China should be expanded independently of MSM research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Centres for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - John Best
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Weiming Tang
- Guangdong Provincial Centres for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lai Sze Tso
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fengying Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Centres for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shujie Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Centres for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Heping Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Centres for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Centres for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chongyi Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics & Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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HIV epidemiology and responses among men who have sex with men and transgender individuals in China: a scoping review. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:588. [PMID: 27765021 PMCID: PMC5073436 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1904-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite global efforts to control HIV among key populations, new infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender (TG) individuals are still increasing. The increasing HIV epidemic among MSM/TG in China indicates that more effective services are urgently needed. However, policymakers and program managers must have a clear understanding of MSM/TG sexual health in China to improve service delivery. To meet this need, we undertook a scoping review to summarize HIV epidemiology and responses among MSM and TG individuals in China. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library for recent studies on MSM/TG HIV epidemiology and responses. We also included supplemental articles, grey literature, government reports, policy documents, and best practice guidelines. RESULTS Overall, HIV prevalence among Chinese MSM was approximately 8 % in 2015 with a higher prevalence observed in Southwest China. TG are not captured in national HIV, STD, or other sexual health surveillance systems. There is limited data sharing between the public health authorities and community-based organizations (CBOs). Like other low and middle income countries, China is challenged by low rates of HIV testing, linkage, and retention. Several pilot interventions have been shown to be effective to increase HIV testing among MSM and TG individuals, but have not been widely scaled up. Data from two randomized controlled trials suggests that crowdsourcing contests can increase HIV testing, creating demand for services while engaging communities. CONCLUSION Improving HIV surveillance and expanding HIV interventions for Chinese MSM and TG individuals are essential. Further implementation research is needed to ensure high-quality HIV services for MSM and TG individuals in China.
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30
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Poteat T, Scheim A, Xavier J, Reisner S, Baral S. Global Epidemiology of HIV Infection and Related Syndemics Affecting Transgender People. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2016; 72 Suppl 3:S210-9. [PMID: 27429185 PMCID: PMC4969059 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transgender populations have been underrepresented in HIV epidemiologic studies and consequently in HIV prevention, care, and treatment programs. Since 2012, there has been a dramatic increase in research focused on transgender people. Studies highlight the burden of HIV and risk determinants, including intersecting stigmas, as drivers of syndemics among transgender populations. This review synthesizes the most recent global epidemiology of HIV infection and describes current gaps in research and interventions to inform prioritization of HIV research for transgender populations. METHODS A systematic review was conducted of the medical literature published between January 1, 2012 and November 30, 2015. The data focused on HIV prevalence, determinants of risk, and syndemics among transgender populations. RESULTS Estimates varied dramatically by location and subpopulation. Transfeminine individuals have some of the highest concentrated HIV epidemics in the world with laboratory-confirmed prevalence up to 40%. Data were sparse among trans masculine individuals; however, they suggest potential increased risk for trans masculine men who have sex with men (MSM). No prevalence data were available for transgender people across Sub-Saharan Africa or Eastern Europe/Central Asia. Emerging data consistently support the association of syndemic conditions with HIV risk in transgender populations. DISCUSSION Addressing syndemic conditions and gender-specific challenges is critical to ensure engagement and retention in HIV prevention by transgender populations. Future research should prioritize: filling knowledge gaps in HIV epidemiology; elucidating how stigma shapes syndemic factors to produce HIV and other deleterious effects on transgender health; and understanding how to effectively implement HIV interventions for transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonia Poteat
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Ayden Scheim
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Jessica Xavier
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland; and
| | - Sari Reisner
- Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
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31
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Prevalence and associated factors of condomless receptive anal intercourse with male clients among transgender women sex workers in Shenyang, China. J Int AIDS Soc 2016; 19:20800. [PMID: 27431471 PMCID: PMC4949316 DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.3.20800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Globally, transgender women sex workers have a high prevalence of HIV and condomless receptive anal intercourse with male clients (CRAIMC). We investigated the prevalence of CRAIMC and factors associated with CRAIMC among transgender women sex workers in China. Methods In 2014, we anonymously interviewed 220 transgender women sex workers face to face in Shenyang, China. Those who self-reported as HIV negative or as having unknown HIV serostatus were invited to take up free, anonymous HIV rapid testing (n=183); 90 did so. Using CRAIMC in the last month as the dependent variable, three types of associated factors were investigated, in addition to background factors: feminizing medical interventions, sex work and perceptions related to condom use. Univariate and multiple logistic regression models were fitted. Results Of the participants, 16.8% self-reported as HIV positive and 9.1% were detected to be HIV positive through free HIV testing; 26.8% had had CRAIMC in the last month, 45.5% had performed sex work in other Chinese cities (last year), and 23.2% had had condomless anal intercourse with men who were non-clients. In the adjusted analysis, significant factors associated with CRAIMC (last month) included the following: 1) any feminizing medical intervention performed (adjusted odds ratio, AOR: 2.22); 2) sex-work-related factors, including recruitment of male clients most often at hotels (AOR: 5.02) and charge per episode of transactional sex (201 to 400 RMB, AOR: 0.27; reference group: ≤100 RMB); and 3) perceptions related to condom use, including perceived transgender identity's impact on condomless sex such as wearing feminine attire, concern about exposing their status as a transgender woman to male clients (AOR: 1.20) and perceived self-efficacy of consistent condom use with male clients (AOR: 0.56). Perceived self-efficacy of consistent condom use with male clients fully mediated the association between perceived transgender identity's impact on condomless sex and CRAIMC. Conclusions HIV prevalence among transgender women sex workers was high but probably underestimated. The high prevalence of condomless anal intercourse with male non-clients and high mobility in sex work among this population in China are causes for concern. Risk factors for CRAIMC were multidimensional and should be considered when designing interventions targeting transgender women sex workers. Such interventions are urgently needed.
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HIV epidemics among transgender populations: the importance of a trans-inclusive response. J Int AIDS Soc 2016. [DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.3.21259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
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