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Zapata JP, Hirshfield S, Nelson K, Horvath K, John SA. Preferred Characteristics for mHealth Interventions Among Young Sexual Minoritized Men to Support HIV Testing and PrEP Decision-Making: Focus Group Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e51103. [PMID: 37713640 PMCID: PMC10616747 DOI: 10.2196/51103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological trends in the United States have shown an increase in HIV cases among young sexual minoritized men. Using mobile health (mHealth), which refers to health services and information delivered or enhanced through the internet and related technologies, is a crucial strategy to address HIV disparities. However, despite its potential, the practical implementation of mHealth remains limited. Additionally, it is important to consider that young individuals may become accustomed to, distracted from, or lose interest in these apps, highlighting the need for regular updates and monitoring of relevant content. OBJECTIVE In this study, we sought to highlight the voices of young sexual minoritized men aged 17-24 years and explored preferred mHealth intervention characteristics and willingness to adopt these technologies among a diverse, nationwide sample of young sexual minoritized men. METHODS From April to September 2020, we recruited participants through web-based platforms such as social media and geosocial networking apps for men. These individuals were invited to participate in synchronous web-based focus group discussions centered around topics pertaining to HIV testing and prevention and their preferences for mHealth technologies. RESULTS A total of 41 young sexual minoritized men, aged between 17 and 24 years, participated in 9 focus group discussions spanning April to September 2020, with 3-7 participants in each group. The findings shed light on three key insights regarding young sexual minoritized men's preferences: (1) the need for personalized and representative content, (2) a preference for mobile and web-based simulation of prevention scenarios, and (3) a preference for digital software with individually tailored content. As expected, preference for mHealth apps was high, which supports the potential and need to develop or adapt interventions that use smartphones as a platform for engaging young sexual minoritized men in HIV prevention. This study expands on previous research in multiple meaningful ways, delving into the use and perceptions of mHealth information amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This study also highlighted the importance of streamlined access to health care providers, especially in light of the barriers faced by young people during the COVID-19 pandemic. In terms of presentation and navigation, participants favored a user-friendly design that was easy to use and appropriate for their age, which was effectively addressed through the implementation of web-based simulations. CONCLUSIONS Ultimately, this study provides valuable insight into the preferences of young sexual minoritized men when it comes to mHealth interventions and highlights the need for further research in order to develop effective and tailored HIV prevention tools. A future direction for researchers is to evaluate how best to address participants' desire for personalized content within mHealth apps. Additionally, as technology rapidly evolves, there is a need to re-assess the effectiveness of web-based simulations, particularly those that are used in HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Zapata
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, United States
| | - Kimberly Nelson
- Department of Medicine, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Keith Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Steven A John
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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Rosenthal EM, Tesoriero JM, Flavin SM, Yuan Y, Sullivan TT, Johnson MC. Geospatial Prioritization to Reach Hispanic or Latino and Other Priority Populations Through HIV Home Testing Services. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2023; 29:336-344. [PMID: 36693389 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hispanic or Latino men who have sex with men (HLMSM) are disproportionately affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New York State (NYS) and nationally. In 2019, HLMSM comprised 13% of all new diagnoses and 21% of new diagnoses among men who have sex with men (MSM) in NYS excluding New York City. HIV home testing programs are effective methods for increasing HIV testing. OBJECTIVE This pilot sought to determine whether the NYS HIV Home Test Giveaway (HHTG) can effectively reach priority populations, specifically HLMSM/transgender/gender nonconforming persons who have sex with men, to increase uptake of HIV home testing services and identify new HIV infections. DESIGN/SETTING We recruited participants using media campaigns linked to a brief self-administered eligibility survey. Eligible participants provided their e-mail address to receive a code for a free HIV home test and were sent a self-administered follow-up survey 4 to 11 weeks after eligibility survey completion. PARTICIPANTS The 2018 and 2019 NYS HHTG reached 1214 and 1340 participants, respectively. A total of 606 participants in 2018 and 736 participants in 2019 were eligible to receive the HHTG home test kit. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES HHTG utilization and test results. RESULTS Hispanic or Latino persons participated at higher rates (34.8% and 25.4% in 2018 and 2019, respectively) than the percentage of Hispanic men in prioritized zip codes (15.7% and 15.6% in 2018 and 2019, respectively). The majority of participants who received HHTG test kits used them to test themselves (87.5% in 2018 and 90.6% in 2019). Across both rounds, 4 participants reported new HIV-positive results, for a seropositivity rate of approximately 1%. CONCLUSION Geospatial prioritization was successful in reaching Hispanic or Latino priority populations for HIV testing. HIV self-testing programs such as the HHTG are beneficial methods to reach priority populations for state and national Ending the HIV Epidemic initiatives.
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Guigayoma J, Becker SJ, Ong JJ, Kanamori M, Hickson D, Ward LM, Biello KB, Wray T. Addressing key issues in HIV self-test program implementation for Black and Latino sexual minority men in the Southern United States: a multiphase study protocol. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:14. [PMID: 36782303 PMCID: PMC9926573 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00395-6] [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: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black and Latino sexual minority men in the Southern United States have the highest HIV infection rates in the country. Increased HIV testing can help decrease onward HIV transmission through detecting previously undiagnosed infections. HIV self-testing is an evidence-based strategy to increase HIV testing among sexual minority men, but the implementation of this intervention in the Southern United States is limited. One implementation barrier is the lack of knowledge of Black and Latino sexual minority men's preferences for various HIV self-testing program characteristics and their willingness to pay for these preferences. In addition, little is known about facilitators and barriers to initiating HIV self-testing programs from the perspectives of HIV prevention implementation decision-makers in this region. METHODS We will conduct an online discrete choice experiment among Black and Latino sexual minority men in the Southern United States (n = 300) to estimate this population's preferences for the following HIV self-testing program characteristics: delivery strategy (home delivery, peer delivery, clinic pickup); delivery speed (same day, next day, 3 days, and 5 days); support (instructions only, during test, and 1 week after delivery); and price ($0, $20, $40, $50, $60). We will also use this choice data to generate willingness-to-pay estimates for each program characteristic. Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we will then conduct semi-structured interviews (n = 30) with HIV prevention program decision-makers at various health organizations serving Black and Latino sexual minority men in the region to further understand facilitators and barriers to implementation of the most preferred HIV self-testing program design. DISCUSSION By gaining perspectives on HIV self-testing implementation from patients and providers, this project will build a roadmap for the initiation of HIV self-testing programs to decrease HIV incidence among one of the most disproportionately impacted populations in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Guigayoma
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 S. Main St., Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
| | - Sara J Becker
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, 633 N. Saint Clair St., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jason J Ong
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, 99 Commercial Rd., Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Mariano Kanamori
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 10th St., FL, 33136, Miami, USA
| | - DeMarc Hickson
- Us Helping Us, People Into Living Inc., 3636 Georgia Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Lori M Ward
- University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State St., Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Katie B Biello
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 S. Main St., Providence, RI, 02912, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 S. Main St., Providence, RI, 02912, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, 1340 Boylston St., Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 S. Main St., Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Tyler Wray
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 S. Main St., Providence, RI, 02912, USA
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Ekholuenetale M, Nzoputam CI, Okonji OC. Association between socio-economic factors and HIV self-testing knowledge amongst South African women. South Afr J HIV Med 2022; 23:1347. [PMID: 35399747 PMCID: PMC8991179 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v23i1.1347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Self-testing for HIV is an effective and alternative method of increasing HIV testing rates and a strategy for reaching populations that are underserved by HIV testing services. Nonetheless, many resource-constrained settings are yet to adopt HIV self-testing (HIVST) into their national HIV programmes. Objectives This study aimed to examine the association between socio-economic factors and HIVST knowledge amongst South African women. Method We used nationally representative data from the 2016 South African Demographic and Health Survey. A sample of 8182 women of reproductive age was analysed. The outcome variable was HIVST knowledge. This was measured dichotomously; know versus do not know about HIVST. The multivariable logistic model was used to examine the measures of association, with the level of significance set at P < 0.05. Results The prevalence rate of HIVST knowledge was found to be approximately 24.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 22.9–26.1) amongst South African women. Women with tertiary education were 3.93 times more likely to have HIVST knowledge, when compared with those with no formal education (odds ratio [OR]: 3.93; 95% CI: 1.37–11.26). Rural residents had a 33% reduction in HIVST knowledge when compared with those residing in urban areas (OR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.51–0.89). The odds of interaction between the richer and richest women who have good knowledge of HIV infection were 1.88 and 2.24 times more likely to have HIVST knowledge, respectively, when compared with those from the poorest wealth household who have good knowledge of HIV infection. Conclusion Based on the low level of HIVST knowledge, the findings emphasise the importance of developing effective HIVST educational campaigns. Moreover, programmes should be designed to address the unique needs of the socio-economically disadvantaged women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ekholuenetale
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Chimezie I. Nzoputam
- Department of Public Health, Center of Excellence in Reproductive Health Innovation (CERHI), College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - Osaretin C. Okonji
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Natural Science, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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Johnson MC, Chung R, Leung SYJ, Edelstein Z, Yuan Y, Flavin SM. Combating Stigma Through HIV Self-Testing: New York State's HIV Home Test Giveaway Program for Sexual Minorities. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2022; 28:174-183. [PMID: 32015253 PMCID: PMC8781215 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic more than any other group. In New York State (NYS) outside of New York City (NYC), MSM accounted for 57% of new HIV/AIDS diagnoses in 2017. HIV/AIDS home testing initiatives have been effective at getting priority populations tested for HIV. OBJECTIVES The NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) administered the HIV Home Test Giveaway (HHTG) program through social media and mobile applications popular among the priority populations to (1) promote HIV screening among gay and bisexual men, MSM, transgender (TG), and gender queer/gender nonconforming (GNC) individuals who have sex with men, and (2) identify individuals with undiagnosed HIV infection. DESIGN/SETTING The NYSDOH recruited participants from NYS (excluding NYC) through social media campaigns between November 2016 and January 2018. Interested individuals were directed to an online eligibility survey. Eligible participants received a coupon via e-mail for a free HIV self-test (HIVST) kit through the manufacturer's Web site. Eligible participants received a $20 to $25 Amazon online gift card if they completed a voluntary online follow-up survey regarding their test results, experiences with the HHTG, and HIV/AIDS risk behaviors. Participants were also able to request assistance from the NYSDOH with further testing and various prevention and supportive services. PARTICIPANTS In total, 6190 individuals participated and 3197 (52%) were eligible and received a coupon. Of the eligible, 2022 (63%) redeemed coupons for HIVST. RESULTS Among eligible participants, 976 (31%) reported having never been tested for HIV. On the follow-up survey, 922 (29%) participants reported having used the HIVST kit for themselves; 203 (22%) were first-time testers; and 7 (0.8%) tested HIV reactive. Of the follow-up survey participants, 761 (59%) requested assistance with various services. CONCLUSIONS Media campaigns were effective in promoting HIV testing among priority populations and reaching individuals who have never been tested for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan C. Johnson
- New York State Department of Health—AIDS Institute, Albany, New York (Mss Johnson and Flavin, Dr Chung, and Messrs Leung and Yuan); and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York (Dr Edelstein)
| | - Rakkoo Chung
- New York State Department of Health—AIDS Institute, Albany, New York (Mss Johnson and Flavin, Dr Chung, and Messrs Leung and Yuan); and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York (Dr Edelstein)
| | - Shu-Yin J. Leung
- New York State Department of Health—AIDS Institute, Albany, New York (Mss Johnson and Flavin, Dr Chung, and Messrs Leung and Yuan); and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York (Dr Edelstein)
| | - Zoe Edelstein
- New York State Department of Health—AIDS Institute, Albany, New York (Mss Johnson and Flavin, Dr Chung, and Messrs Leung and Yuan); and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York (Dr Edelstein)
| | - Yingchao Yuan
- New York State Department of Health—AIDS Institute, Albany, New York (Mss Johnson and Flavin, Dr Chung, and Messrs Leung and Yuan); and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York (Dr Edelstein)
| | - Susan M. Flavin
- New York State Department of Health—AIDS Institute, Albany, New York (Mss Johnson and Flavin, Dr Chung, and Messrs Leung and Yuan); and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York (Dr Edelstein)
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O'Byrne P. HIV self-testing: A review and analysis to guide HIV prevention policy. Public Health Nurs 2021; 38:885-891. [PMID: 34043831 DOI: 10.1111/phn.12917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
HIV self-testing is a relatively new approach to HIV testing that, with increasing licensure in many countries, is an impending intervention. Considering such current or near-future implementation, it is important for HIV prevention policymakers to reflect on if and how to incorporate HIV self-testing. In this paper, using the Impact Fraction Model and the Anderson-May equation, I discuss how HIV self-testing should be an efficacious prevention approach when targeted appropriately. I then review the potential impacts of self-testing on HIV surveillance and discuss possible ethical concerns about such testing. The outcome of this analysis is that, while some issues may arise related to surveillance, and while some ethical concerns can be raised, no empirical evidence substantiates either, suggesting that HIV self-testing is an important strategy if it can be focused on and used by the persons most affected by HIV.
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O'Byrne P, Musten A, Orser L, Inamdar G, Grayson MO, Jones C, Francoeur M, Lachance S, Paulin V. At-home HIV self-testing during COVID: implementing the GetaKit project in Ottawa. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH = REVUE CANADIENNE DE SANTE PUBLIQUE 2021; 112:587-594. [PMID: 33999399 PMCID: PMC8127455 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-021-00505-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Setting In March 2020, COVID-19 shuttered access to many healthcare settings offering HIV testing and there is no licensed HIV self-test in Canada. Intervention A team of nurses at the University of Ottawa and Ottawa Public Health and staff from the Ontario HIV Treatment Network (OHTN) obtained Health Canada’s Special Access approval on April 23, 2020 to distribute bioLytical’s INSTI HIV self-test in Ottawa; we received REB approval on May 15, 2020. As of July 20, 2020, eligible participants (≥18 years old, HIV-negative, not on PrEP, not in an HIV vaccine trial, living in Ottawa, no bleeding disorders) could register via www.GetaKit.ca to order kits. Outcomes In the first 6 weeks, 637 persons completed our eligibility screener; 43.3% (n = 276) were eligible. Of eligible participants, 203 completed a baseline survey and 182 ordered a test. These 203 participants were an average of 31 years old, 72.3% were white, 60.4% were cis-male, and 55% self-identified as gay. Seventy-one percent (n = 144) belonged to a priority group for HIV testing. We have results for 70.9% (n = 129/182) of participants who ordered a kit: none were positive, 104 were negative, 22 were invalid, and 2 “preferred not to say”; 1 participant reported an unreadiness to test. Implications Our results show that HIV self-testing is a pandemic-friendly strategy to help ensure access to sexual health services among persons who are good candidates for HIV testing. It is unsurprising that no one tested positive for HIV thus far, given the 0.08% positivity rate for HIV testing in Ottawa. As such, we advocate for scale-up of HIV self-testing in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick O'Byrne
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada. .,Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health Services, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa, Canada.
| | | | - Lauren Orser
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada.,Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health Services, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Marie-Odile Grayson
- Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health Services, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Clay Jones
- Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Megan Francoeur
- Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health Services, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Sarah Lachance
- Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health Services, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Vickie Paulin
- Infectious Diseases and Sexual Health Services, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa, Canada
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Trauma-informed Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevention for Black Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Critical Need. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 47:447-449. [PMID: 32541303 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Awareness and Attitudes Toward HIV Self-Testing in Northern Thailand. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18030852. [PMID: 33498211 PMCID: PMC7908521 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18030852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus self-testing (HIVST) was recently introduced in Thailand, but little is known about receptivity among its residents. Because Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing is a critical component of HIV prevention, it is important to understand how HIVST is perceived among potential users. The purpose of this study was to examine awareness and attitudes toward HIVST among adults in Northern Thailand. A convenience sample of 403 adult residents of the Sanpatong district, Chiang Mai Province, was interviewed using a structured questionnaire in 2019. Awareness of HIVST was low (14%), as was the overall HIVST negative attitude score (6.44; possible range of 0–14). The odds of being aware of HIVST were more than twice as high for those with more education compared to those with less (AOR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.22–4.30), and roughly half as high for those who expressed HIV stigma compared to those who did not (AOR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.26–0.91). Holding negative attitudes towards HIVST also was associated with lower education and expressing HIV stigma, but these relationships disappeared in multivariate analysis. Findings may be used by local health organizations to tailor HIVST education efforts.
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Iliyasu Z, Kassim RB, Iliyasu BZ, Amole TG, Nass NS, Marryshow SE, Aliyu MH. Acceptability and correlates of HIV self-testing among university students in northern Nigeria. Int J STD AIDS 2020; 31:820-831. [PMID: 32623978 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420920136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Concerns about stigma and confidentiality limit the uptake of HIV testing and counseling (HTC) among young adults. HIV self-testing has been offered as a youth-friendly alternative to conventional HTC. We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess HTC uptake, willingness to self-test, and their predictors among university students (n = 399) in Kano, Nigeria. Anonymous self-administered questionnaires were provided to participants. Adjusted odd ratios were generated for predictors with logistic regression models. The results showed that only 35.8% (n = 143) of participants had previous HTC.Most respondents (70.4%, n = 281) were willing to self-test. HTC was associated with year of college (500 Level vs. 100 Level), adjusted odds ratio (AOR, [95% Confidence Interval (CI)] = 0.44 (0.19-0.97), campus residence (off- vs. on-campus, AOR = 0.45; 95%CI: 0.28-0.73), sexual activity in the past six months (AOR = 0.39; 95%CI: 0.24-0.64), willingness to self-test (AOR = 0.38; 95%CI: 0.22-0.66), and consistent condom use (AOR = 4.45; 95%CI: 1.41-14.08). Students who were older (≥ 30 vs. <20 years, AOR = 0.20; 95%CI: 0.05-0.90) and female (AOR = 0.56; 95%CI: 0.32-0.98) were less likely to be willing to self-test, whereas students who were more senior (500 Level vs. 100 Level, AOR = 5.24; 95%CI: 1.85-14.84), enrolled in clinical science programs (vs. agriculture, AOR = 4.92; 95%CI: 1.51-16.05) or belonging to "other" ethnic groups (vs. Hausa-Fulani, AOR = 2.40; 95%CI: 1.11-5.19) were more willing to self-test. Overall HTC uptake was low, but acceptability of self-testing was high. College seniority, age, ethnicity, and program of study were associated with willingness to self-test. Our findings support the feasibility of scaling up HIV self-testing among university students in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zubairu Iliyasu
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria.,Centre for Infectious Diseases Research, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Taiwo G Amole
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Nafisa S Nass
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Salisha E Marryshow
- Department of Health Policy and Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Muktar H Aliyu
- Department of Health Policy and Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Vanderbilt Institute for Medicine & Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Lau CYK, Wang Z, Fang Y, Ip M, Wong KM, Chidgey A, Li J, Lau JTF. Prevalence of and factors associated with behavioral intention to take up home-based HIV self-testing among male clients of female sex workers in China - an application of the Theory of Planned Behavior. AIDS Care 2020; 33:1088-1097. [PMID: 32597197 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1785996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTHIV self-testing (HIVST) is a useful means to increase coverage of HIV testing but under-utilized by male clients of female sex workers (MCFSW) in China. This study investigated the prevalence of and factors associated with behavioral intention to take up HIVST in the next year among MCFSW in Hong Kong, China. We recruited Chinse-speaking adult men who had patronized at least one female sex worker in the past six months. A total of 303 MCFSW completed a self-administered questionnaire. Univariate and multivariable ordinal logistic regression models were fit. Only 23.8% of participants indicated that they probably/definitely would take up HIVST in the next year. The multivariable ordinal logistic regression model showed that positive attitudes towards HIVST (adjusted odds ratios (aOR): 1.24, 95%CI: 1.13, 1.37), perceived HIVST uptake is completely under one's control (perceived behavioral control) (aOR: 1.44, 95%CI: 1.08, 1.92), and perceived higher risk of HIV infection (aOR: 1.32, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.76) were associated with higher intention to take up HIVST in the next year. The prevalence of behavioral intention to use HIVST was low among MCFSW in Hong Kong. Perceptions based on the Theory of Planned Behavior and perceived risk of HIV infection were associated with behavioral intention to use HIVST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Y K Lau
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zixin Wang
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China.,Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of Early Childhood Education, Faculty of Education and Human Development, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Mary Ip
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ka Ming Wong
- AIDS Concern, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | | | - Jinghua Li
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Joseph T F Lau
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China.,Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
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Guest JL, Sullivan PS, Valentine-Graves M, Valencia R, Adam E, Luisi N, Nakano M, Guarner J, Del Rio C, Sailey C, Goedecke Z, Siegler AJ, Sanchez TH. Suitability and Sufficiency of Telehealth Clinician-Observed, Participant-Collected Samples for SARS-CoV-2 Testing: The iCollect Cohort Pilot Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2020; 6:e19731. [PMID: 32479412 PMCID: PMC7318863 DOI: 10.2196/19731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic calls for expanded opportunities for testing, including novel testing strategies such as home-collected specimens. OBJECTIVE We aimed to understand whether oropharyngeal swab (OPS), saliva, and dried blood spot (DBS) specimens collected by participants at home and mailed to a laboratory were sufficient for use in diagnostic and serology tests of SARS-CoV-2. METHODS Eligible participants consented online and were mailed a participant-collection kit to support collection of three specimens for SARS-CoV-2 testing: saliva, OPS, and DBS. Participants performed the specimen collection procedures during a telehealth video appointment while clinical observers watched and documented the suitability of the collection. The biological sufficiency of the specimens for detection of SARS-CoV-2 by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and serology testing was assessed by laboratorians using visual inspection and quantification of the nucleic acid contents of the samples by ribonuclease P (RNase P) measurements. RESULTS Of the enrolled participants,153/159 (96.2%) returned their kits, which were included in this analysis. All these participants attended their video appointments. Clinical observers assessed that of the samples collected, 147/153 (96.1%) of the saliva samples, 146/151 (96.7%) of the oropharyngeal samples, and 135/145 (93.1%) of the DBS samples were of sufficient quality for submission for laboratory testing; 100% of the OPS samples and 98% of the saliva samples had cycle threshold values for RNase P <30, indicating that the samples contained sufficient nucleic acid for RNA-PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2. CONCLUSIONS These pilot data indicate that most participant-collected OPS, saliva, and DBS specimens are suitable and sufficient for testing for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and serology. Clinical observers rated the collection of specimens as suitable for testing, and visual and quantitative laboratory assessment indicated that the specimens were biologically sufficient. These data support the utility of participant-collected and mailed-in specimens for SARS-CoV-2 testing. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/19054.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodie L Guest
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Rachel Valencia
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Adam
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Mariko Nakano
- Molecular Testing Labs, Vancouver, WA, United States
| | | | - Carlos Del Rio
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Zoe Goedecke
- Molecular Testing Labs, Vancouver, WA, United States
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Abstract
Although highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has been introduced over twenty years ago to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive patients, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is still one of the deadliest diseases found worldwide. AIDS prevalence and mortality rates are usually more pronounced in resource-constrained countries than in the developed world. The lack of trained medical technicians, sophisticated diagnostic equipment, and the overall scarcity of medical infrastructures have severely impacted HIV/AIDS diagnostics, which hinders the initiation and periodic monitoring of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Currently, available HIV viral load assays are not well-suited for resource-limited settings due to their high cost and a requirement for medical/technical infrastructures. In this paper, we review current and emerging diagnostic assays for HIV detection, with a focus on point-of-care (POC) based immunoassays for viral load measurement, drug resistance, and HIV recurrence. We also discuss the limitations of the available HIV assays and highlight the technological advancements in cellphone, paper, and flexible material-based assays which have the potential to improve HIV diagnosis and monitoring, thus assisting with the management of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Alamgir Kabir
- Department of Computer and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA.,Asghar-Lab, Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Hussein Zilouchian
- Asghar-Lab, Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Massimo Caputi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Waseem Asghar
- Department of Computer and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA.,Asghar-Lab, Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Boca Raton, FL, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences (courtesy appointment), Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
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Repeat Human Immunodeficiency Virus Testing by Transmission Risk Group and Rurality of Residence in North Carolina. Sex Transm Dis 2019; 45:684-689. [PMID: 29771865 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding of repeat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing (RHT) is limited and the impact of rural residence as a potential barrier to RHT is unknown. Rural populations are of particular interest in the Southeastern United States because of their disproportionate HIV burden. METHODS We used HIV surveillance data from publicly funded HIV testing sites in North Carolina to assess repeat testing by transmission risk group and residential rurality in a retrospective cohort study. Linear binomial regression models were used to estimate adjusted, 1-year cumulative incidences and cumulative incidence differences comparing RHT within transmission risk populations by level of rurality. RESULTS In our total study population of 600,613 persons, 19,275 (3.2%) and 9567 (1.6%) self-identified as men who have sex with men (MSM) and persons who inject drugs (PWID), respectively. A small minority, 13,723 (2.3%) resided in rural ZIP codes. Men who have sex with men were most likely to repeat test (unadjusted, 1-year cumulative incidence after an initial negative test, 16.4%) compared with PWID (13.2%) and persons who did not identify as either MSM or PWID (13.6%). The greatest effect of rurality was within PWID; the adjusted, 1-year cumulative incidence of RHT was 6.4 (95% confidence interval, 1.4-11.4) percentage points higher among metropolitan versus rural PWID. CONCLUSIONS One-year cumulative incidence of RHT was low among all clients of publicly funded HIV testing sites in North Carolina, including MSM and PWID for whom annual testing is recommended. Our findings suggest a need for public health efforts to increase access to and support for RHT, particularly among rural PWID.
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Tobin K, Edwards C, Flath N, Lee A, Tormohlen K, Gaydos CA. Acceptability and feasibility of a Peer Mentor program to train young Black men who have sex with men to promote HIV and STI home-testing to their social network members. AIDS Care 2018; 30:896-902. [PMID: 29482342 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1442553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) experience persistently high rates of undiagnosed HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and testing rates remain sub-optimal. Home-based testing (HBT) has been found to be acceptable among MSM and while awareness about HBT is relatively high, uptake has been low. Peer-based approaches have been shown to be effective in reducing HIV risk behavior, yet have not been used to increase utilization of HBT. The purpose of this study was to assess acceptability and feasibility of a program to train YBMSM as Peer Mentors to use and promote HIV and STI home-based testing and specimen collection to their social network members. Fifteen YBMSM ages 18-30 completed in-depth structured interviews and were asked to talk with their social network members about home-based testing. Participants reported acceptability of the Peer Mentor role and two-thirds had conversations with diverse social network members (e.g., male and female, sex partners, friends, family). Facilitators of peer outreach included the novelty of home-based testing, confidence about accuracy of the tests, and resources for linkage to care. Barriers included concerns about negative responses and disclosure of sexual identity/behavior. Results of this study suggest that YBMSM are willing and able to promote HBT to their social networks. This is a promising approach to increasing dissemination of HBT kits for both HIV and STI testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Tobin
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Catie Edwards
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Natalie Flath
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Alexandra Lee
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Kayla Tormohlen
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Charlotte A Gaydos
- b Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
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A Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating Efficacy of Promoting a Home-Based HIV Self-Testing with Online Counseling on Increasing HIV Testing Among Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:190-201. [PMID: 28831616 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1887-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We developed an innovative home-based HIV self-testing (HIVST) service that included mailing of a free HIVST kit, and providing online real-time instructions and pre-test/post-test counseling (HIVST-OIC). The present parallel-group and non-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of promoting HIVST-OIC in increasing HIV testing rate among 430 men who have sex with men (MSM), with access to online live-chat applications in Hong Kong. At month 6, as compared to the control group, the intervention group reported significantly higher prevalence of HIV testing of any type (89.8 vs. 50.7%; relative risk (RR): 1.77; p < 0.001). Among those who have taken up any HIV testing in the last six months, significant between-group difference was found in multiple male sex partnerships (34.2 vs. 47.7%, RR: 0.72; p = 0.021). HIVST-OIC has a strong potential in increasing prevalence of HIV testing and reducing sexual risk behaviors. Implementation research is warranted.
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MacGowan RJ, Chavez PR, Gravens L, Wesolowski LG, Sharma A, McNaghten AD, Freeman A, Sullivan PS, Borkowf CB, Michele Owen S. Pilot Evaluation of the Ability of Men Who Have Sex with Men to Self-Administer Rapid HIV Tests, Prepare Dried Blood Spot Cards, and Interpret Test Results, Atlanta, Georgia, 2013. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:117-126. [PMID: 29058163 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1932-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, an estimated 67% of new HIV diagnoses are among men who have sex with men (MSM), however 25% of HIV-positive MSM in the 2014 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Survey were unaware of their infection. HIV self-testing (HIVST) with rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) may facilitate access to HIV testing. We evaluated the ability of 22 MSM to conduct two HIV RDTs (OraQuick ® In-Home HIV Test and a home-use prototype of Sure Check ® HIV 1/2 Assay), interpret sample images of test results, and collect a dried blood spot (DBS) specimen. While some participants did not follow every direction, most participants were able to conduct HIVST and correctly interpret their results. Interpretation of panels of RDT images was especially difficult when the "control" line was missing, and 27% of DBS cards produced were rated as of bad quality. Modifications to the DBS instructions were necessary prior to evaluating the performance of these tests in real-world settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin J MacGowan
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA.
| | - Pollyanna R Chavez
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | | | - Laura G Wesolowski
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | | | - A D McNaghten
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
- Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Arin Freeman
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | | | - Craig B Borkowf
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | - S Michele Owen
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
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