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Rwabiyago OE, Katale A, Bingham T, Grund JM, Machangu O, Medley A, Nkomela ZM, Kayange A, King'ori GN, Juma JM, Ismail A, Kategile U, Akom E, Mlole NT, Schaad N, Maokola W, Nyagonde N, Magesa D, Kazitanga JC, Maruyama H, Temu F, Kimambo S, Sando D, Mbatia R, Chalamila ST, Ogwang BE, Njelekela MA, Kazaura K, Wong VJ, Gongo R, Njau PF, Mbunda A, Nondi J, Bateganya M, Greene J, Breda M, Mgomella G, Rwebembera A, Swaminathan M. Social network strategy (SNS) for HIV testing: a new approach for identifying individuals with undiagnosed HIV infection in Tanzania. AIDS Care 2024; 36:201-210. [PMID: 38502602 PMCID: PMC11283934 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2307383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Social network strategy (SNS) testing uses network connections to refer individuals at high risk to HIV testing services (HTS). In Tanzania, SNS testing is offered in communities and health facilities. In communities, SNS testing targets key and vulnerable populations (KVP), while in health facilities it complements index testing by reaching unelicited index contacts. Routine data were used to assess performance and trends over time in PEPFAR-supported sites between October 2021 and March 2023. Key indicators included SNS social contacts tested, and new HIV-positives individuals identified. Descriptive and statistical analysis were conducted. Univariable and multivariable analysis were applied, and variables with P-values <0.2 at univariable analysis were considered for multivariable analysis. Overall, 121,739 SNS contacts were tested, and 7731 (6.4%) previously undiagnosed individuals living with HIV were identified. Tested contacts and identified HIV-positives were mostly aged ≥15 years (>99.7%) and females (80.6% of tests, 79.4% of HIV-positives). Most SNS contacts were tested (78,363; 64.7%) and diagnosed (6376; 82.5%) in communities. SNS tests and HIV-positives grew 11.5 and 6.1-fold respectively, from October-December 2021 to January-March 2023, with majority of clients reached in communities vs. facilities (78,763 vs. 42,976). These results indicate that SNS testing is a promising HIV case-finding approach in Tanzania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Ernest Rwabiyago
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Allen Katale
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Trista Bingham
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV and TB, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan M Grund
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ona Machangu
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Amy Medley
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV and TB, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Zeye M Nkomela
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Alick Kayange
- United States Walter Reed Army Institute of Research/Department of Defense (WRAIR/DOD), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Galal Naphtal King'ori
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - James McOllogi Juma
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Abbas Ismail
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Upendo Kategile
- United States Agency for International Development, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Eniko Akom
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Neema Tabian Mlole
- President's Office, Regional Administration and Local Government, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Nicolas Schaad
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Werner Maokola
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Nyagonde Nyagonde
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Daniel Magesa
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jaiving C Kazitanga
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Sajida Kimambo
- USAID Afya Yangu Northern Project, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - David Sando
- Management and Development for Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | | | | | - Kokuhumbya Kazaura
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Vincent J Wong
- United States Agency for International Development, Office of HIV/AIDS, Washington DC, USA
| | - Ramadhani Gongo
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Prosper Faustine Njau
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Andrea Mbunda
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Joseph Nondi
- United States Walter Reed Army Institute of Research/Department of Defense (WRAIR/DOD), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Moses Bateganya
- United States Agency for International Development, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Mark Breda
- United States Walter Reed Army Institute of Research/Department of Defense (WRAIR/DOD), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - George Mgomella
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Anath Rwebembera
- Tanzania Ministry of Health: The National AIDS, STIs and Hepatitis Control Program, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Mahesh Swaminathan
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Division of Global HIV and TB, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Wamuti B, Jamil MS, Siegfried N, Ford N, Baggaley R, Johnson CC, Cherutich P. Understanding effective post-test linkage strategies for HIV prevention and care: a scoping review. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26229. [PMID: 38604993 PMCID: PMC11009370 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Following HIV testing services (HTS), the World Health Organization recommends prompt linkage to prevention and treatment. Scale-up of effective linkage strategies is essential to achieving the global 95-95-95 goals for maintaining low HIV incidence by 2030 and reducing HIV-related morbidity and mortality. Whereas linkage to care including same-day antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation for all people with HIV is now routinely implemented in testing programmes, linkage to HIV prevention interventions including behavioural or biomedical strategies, for HIV-negative individuals remains sub-optimal. This review aims to evaluate effective post-HTS linkage strategies for HIV overall, and highlight gaps specifically in linkage to prevention. METHODS Using the five-step Arksey and O'Malley framework, we conducted a scoping review searching existing published and grey literature. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science and EMBASE databases for English-language studies published between 1 January 2010 and 30 November 2023. Linkage interventions included as streamlined interventions-involving same-day HIV testing, ART initiation and point-of-care CD4 cell count/viral load, case management-involving linkage coordinators developing personalized HIV care and risk reduction plans, incentives-financial and non-financial, partner services-including contact tracing, virtual-like social media, quality improvement-like use of score cards, and peer-based interventions. Outcomes of interest were linkage to any form of HIV prevention and/or care including ART initiation. RESULTS Of 2358 articles screened, 66 research studies met the inclusion criteria. Only nine linkage to prevention studies were identified (n = 9/66, 14%)-involving pre-exposure prophylaxis, voluntary medical male circumcision, sexually transmitted infection and cervical cancer screening. Linkage to care studies (n = 57/66, 86%) focused on streamlined interventions in the general population and on case management among key populations. DISCUSSION Despite a wide range of HIV prevention interventions available, there was a dearth of literature on HIV prevention programmes and on the use of messaging on treatment as prevention strategy. Linkage to care studies were comparatively numerous except those evaluating virtual interventions, incentives and quality improvement. CONCLUSIONS The findings give insights into linkage strategies but more understanding of how to provide these effectively for maximum prevention impact is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global Health and PopulationHarvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Muhammad S. Jamil
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
- Regional Office to the Eastern Mediterranean, World Health OrganizationCairoEgypt
| | | | - Nathan Ford
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Rachel Baggaley
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Cheryl Case Johnson
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Peter Cherutich
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
- Department of Preventive and Promotive HealthMinistry of HealthNairobiKenya
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Oljira H, Rata A, Mulatu B, Abera T. Partner notification service utilization and associated factors among clients attending anti-retroviral therapy clinics of public health facilities in Gimbi Town, West Ethiopia, 2023: a facility-based mixed-method cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:687. [PMID: 38438988 PMCID: PMC10913634 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18196-4] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Partner Notification Service is among the strategies used to conduct targeted Human Immunodeficiency Virus Testing Service by obtaining information about sexual contacts of index clients to refer for testing. But most people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus are still unaware of their status, including Ethiopia. Limited studies are available on the magnitude of partner notification service utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of partner notification service utilization and associated factors among people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus attending anti-retroviral therapy clinics of public health facilities in Gimbi town, West Ethiopia. METHODS A facility-based mixed-method cross-sectional study design was used. Total of 455 study participants were selected by systematic random sampling for quantitative data and health workers were purposively selected for qualitative data until saturation of ideas was reached. The study was conducted from December 1, 2022 to January 30, 2023. Structured questionnaires and key informant interview guides were used for data collection. Quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Open code 4.02 software was used for qualitative data analysis. Frequencies and proportions were used to summarize descriptive statistics. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify associated factors then variables with a p value < 0.05 were declared to have an association with the dependent variable. RESULT Exactly 298 (65.5%) of the study participants were notified their HIV status to their sexual partners. Factors associated with Partner Notification Service Utilization were depression AOR: 0.12 (95% CI: 0.07, 0.20), urban settlers AOR: 2.21 (95% CI: 1.2, 3.83), fear of support loss AOR: 0.24 (95% CI: 0.14, 0.40) and intimate partner violence AOR: 0.55 (95% CI: 0.31, 0.97). From qualitative part of this study, factors associated to Partner Notification service utilization were fear of stigma, discrimination and fear of divorce. CONCLUSION Two-third of the study participants were utilized partner notification service, and efforts are important to prevent depression and intimate partner violence. Local government bodies and stakeholders should implement economic strengthening and strategies to address the rural community for HIV/AIDS prevention. Promotion of supportive and inclusive environment for PLHIV should also considered as way to increase PNS utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habtamu Oljira
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Wallaga University, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia.
| | - Abiriham Rata
- Nekemte Blood Bank, Oromia Health Beuareu, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Befirdu Mulatu
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Science, Wallaga University, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Abera
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wallaga University, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia
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McGowan M, Bärnighausen K, Berner-Rodoreda A, McMahon SA, Mtaita C, Mauti J, Neuhann F. "The targets…are driving the agenda and that probably needs to change": stakeholder perspectives on HIV partner notification in sub-Saharan Africa. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:521. [PMID: 38373972 PMCID: PMC10877856 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17422-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Voluntary assisted partner notification (VAPN) in HIV contact tracing is a globally recommended strategy to identify persons who have been exposed to HIV and link them to HIV testing and follow-up. However, there is little understanding about how VAPN is experienced by stakeholders in sub-Saharan African (SSA) contexts. We conducted a multi-level and multi-national qualitative analysis evaluating stakeholder perspectives surrounding VAPN implementation to inform the development of future VAPN policies. METHOD We conducted in-depth interviews (IDIs) with VAPN stakeholders at global (n = 5), national (n = 6), and community level (n = 4) across a total of seven SSA countries. Eligible participants were ≥ 18 years old and had experience developing, implementing, or overseeing VAPN policies in SSA. We sought to understand stakeholder's perspectives on policy development, implementation, and perceived outcomes (barriers and facilitators). Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically using a combination of inductive and deductive approaches. RESULTS Between December 2019 and October 2020 we conducted 15 IDIs. While participants agreed that VAPN resulted in a high yield of people newly diagnosed with HIV; they noted numerous barriers surrounding VAPN implementation across global, national, and community levels, the majority of which were identified at community level. Barriers at global and national level included high target setting, contradictory laws, and limited independent research disenfranchising the experiences of implementing partners. The barriers identified at community level included client-level challenges (e.g., access to healthcare facilities and fear of adverse events); healthcare worker challenges (e.g., high workloads); limited data infrastructure; and cultural/gender norms that hindered women from engaging in HIV testing and VAPN services. In response to these barriers, participants shared implementation facilitators to sustain ethical implementation of VAPN services (e.g., contact tracing methods) and increase its yield (e.g., HIV self-testing integrated with VAPN services). CONCLUSION Overall, stakeholders perceived VAPN implementation to encounter barriers across all implementation levels (global to community). Future VAPN policies should be designed around the barriers and facilitators identified by SSA stakeholders to maximize the implementation of (ethical) HIV VAPN services and increase its impact in sub-Saharan African settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen McGowan
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Kate Bärnighausen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Astrid Berner-Rodoreda
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Shannon A McMahon
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of International Health, Social and Behavioral Interventions Program, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Caroline Mtaita
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joy Mauti
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Florian Neuhann
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- School of Medicine and Clinical Sciences, Lewy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka, Zambia
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Hurley EA, Mayatsa J, Matovu JKB, Schuetz N, Wanyenze R, Wagner G, Goggin K. Piloting Gain and Loss-Framed PrEP and Childbearing Messaging to Promote HIV Testing in Uganda: Perspectives from Couples and Providers. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 28:669-679. [PMID: 37642350 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2251919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Fears of relationship dissolution and the inability to bear healthy children remain barriers to HIV testing in sub-Saharan Africa. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) carries both clinical and symbolic benefits that counter these fears. We conducted a pilot messaging intervention through Uganda's assisted partner notification (APN) program, where providers assist HIV-positive index clients in notifying sexual partners and encourage testing. We randomized providers at three clinics to implement phone scripts over two months with (1) gain-framed or (2) loss-framed information about PrEP and childbearing; or (3) usual care. In 23 in-depth interviews with providers, index clients, and partners, five major themes emerged on intervention acceptability and feasibility: (1) value of PrEP and childbearing messaging in APN; (2) value of this messaging coming earlier in APN; (3) overall preference for gain-framed messages; (4) need to tailor timing of messaging; and (5) need for messaging outside of APN. Register data (109 index clients, 145 partners) indicated most index clients (95%) wanted their potential conception partners informed about PrEP. Preliminary trends suggest the intervention sites outperformed usual care in testing rates among potential conception partners. Messaging that highlights PrEP and safe childbearing may be a promising new communication strategy to promote HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Hurley
- Division of Health Services and Outcomes Research, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
- Department of Population Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Jimmy Mayatsa
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joseph K B Matovu
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Community and Public Health, Busitema University Faculty of Health Sciences, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Nik Schuetz
- Division of Health Services and Outcomes Research, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Rhoda Wanyenze
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Kathy Goggin
- Division of Health Services and Outcomes Research, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
- University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Pharmacy, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
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Maierhofer CN, Powers KA, Matoga MM, Chen JS, Jere E, Massa C, Mmodzi P, Bhushan NL, Phiri S, Hoffman IF, Lancaster KE, Miller WC, Rutstein SE. Characterizing Network-Based HIV Testing Interventions to Guide HIV Testing and Contact Tracing at STI Clinics in Lilongwe, Malawi. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 94:151-159. [PMID: 37345996 PMCID: PMC10528029 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding heterogeneity across patients in effectiveness of network-based HIV testing interventions may optimize testing and contact tracing strategies, expediting linkage to therapy or prevention for contacts of persons with HIV (PWH). SETTING We analyzed data from a randomized controlled trial of a combination intervention comprising acute HIV testing, contract partner notification (cPN), and social contact referral conducted among PWH at 2 STI clinics in Lilongwe, Malawi, between 2015 and 2019. METHODS We used binomial regression to estimate the effect of the combination intervention vs. passive PN (pPN) on having any (1) contact, (2) newly HIV-diagnosed contact, and (3) HIV-negative contact present to the clinic, overall and by referring participant characteristics. We repeated analyses comparing cPN alone with pPN. RESULTS The combination intervention effect on having any presenting contact was greater among referring women than men [prevalence difference (PD): 0.17 vs. 0.10] and among previously vs. newly HIV-diagnosed referring persons (PD: 0.20 vs. 0.11). Differences by sex and HIV diagnosis status were similar in cPN vs. pPN analyses. There were no notable differences in the intervention effect on newly HIV-diagnosed referrals by referring participant characteristics. Intervention impact on having HIV-negative presenting contacts was greater among younger vs. older referring persons and among those with >1 vs. ≤1 recent sex partner. Effect differences by age were similar for cPN vs. pPN. CONCLUSION Our intervention package may be particularly efficacious in eliciting referrals from women and previously diagnosed persons. When the combination intervention is infeasible, cPN alone may be beneficial for these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney N. Maierhofer
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global
Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North
Carolina, USA
| | - Kimberly A. Powers
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global
Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North
Carolina, USA
| | | | - Jane S. Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global
Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North
Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Irving F. Hoffman
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Disease,
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- UNC Project Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Kathryn E. Lancaster
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The
Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - William C. Miller
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The
Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Sarah E. Rutstein
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Disease,
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Ihnatiuk AP, Shapoval AY, Kazanzhy AP, Kuzin IV, Riabokon SV, Shotorbani S, McDowell MR, Golden MR, Puttkammer NH. Distinctive model for HIV index testing (IT) in Eastern Europe: results of Ukraine's physician-led, integrated IT programme. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070542. [PMID: 37730414 PMCID: PMC10514626 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effectiveness of HIV index testing (IT) in Eastern Europe has not been described. This study reports the performance of a scaled IT programme in Ukraine. DESIGN This observational study included clients enrolled in IT services in 2020, and used routinely collected data from programme registers and the national electronic health record system. SETTING The study covered 39 public-sector health facilities where IT services were integrated into medical visits for persons living with HIV (PLHIV) already enrolled in HIV care. PARTICIPANTS Participants included PLHIV with both recent (<6 months) and previously established (≥6 months) HIV diagnoses. INTERVENTION Ukraine's physician-led IT model involves a cascade of steps including voluntary informed consent, partner elicitation, selection of partner notification method and follow-up with clients to ensure partners are notified, tested for HIV and linked to HIV prevention and treatment services, as needed. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Outcomes included contact index, testing, index and HIV case-finding index disaggregated by index client (IC) subgroups, including people with current or past injection drug use (PWID) and men who have sex with men (MSM). RESULTS Of 14 525 ICs offered index testing, 51.9% accepted, of whom 98.3% named at least one sexual, injection or biological child partner. In total, 14.9% of ICs were PWID and 3.5% were MSM. Clients named 8448 unique partners (contact index=1.14). HIV case finding averaged 0.14 cases per client, and was highest among clients with recent HIV diagnosis (0.29) and among PWID (0.23), and lower among clients with established HIV diagnosis (0.07). More than 90% of all partners with new HIV diagnoses were linked to care. CONCLUSIONS There was a high case-finding index among ICs with recent HIV and high linkage to care for all partners, demonstrating the effectiveness of this integrated, physician-led model implemented in 39 health facilities in Ukraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyona P Ihnatiuk
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anna Y Shapoval
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anna P Kazanzhy
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Igor V Kuzin
- Public Health Center, Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kiiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Solmaz Shotorbani
- International Training and Education Center for Health, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Misti R McDowell
- International Training and Education Center for Health, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Matthew R Golden
- International Training and Education Center for Health, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- HIV/STD Control Program, Public Health, Seattle & King County, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nancy H Puttkammer
- International Training and Education Center for Health, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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8
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Vasantharoopan A, Simms V, Chan Y, Guinness L, Maheswaran H. Modelling Methods of Economic Evaluations of HIV Testing Strategies in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2023; 21:585-601. [PMID: 36853553 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-022-00782-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Economic evaluations, a decision-support tool for policy makers, will be crucial in planning and tailoring HIV prevention and treatment strategies especially in the wake of stalled and decreasing funding for the global HIV response. As HIV testing and treatment coverage increase, case identification becomes increasingly difficult and costly. Determining which subset of the population these strategies should be targeted to becomes of vital importance as well. Generating quality economic evidence begins with the validity of the modelling approach and the model structure employed. This study synthesises and critiques the reporting around modelling methodology of economic models in the evaluation of HIV testing strategies in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS The following databases were searched from January 2000 to September 2020: MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, EconLit and Global Health. Any model-based economic evaluation of a unique HIV testing strategy conducted in sub-Saharan Africa presenting a cost-effectiveness measure published from 2013 onwards was eligible. Data were extracted around three components: general study characteristics; economic evaluation design; and quality of model reporting using a novel tool developed for the purposes of this study. RESULTS A total of 21 studies were included; 10 cost-effectiveness analyses, 11 cost-utility analyses. All but one study was conducted in Eastern and Southern Africa. Modelling approaches for HIV testing strategies can be broadly characterised as static aggregate models (3/21), static individual models (6/21), dynamic aggregate models (5/21) and dynamic individual models (7/21). Adequate reporting around data handling was the highest of the three categories assessed (74%), and model validation, the lowest (45%). Limitations to model structure, justification of chosen time horizon and cycle length, and description of external model validation process were all adequately reported in less than 40% of studies. The predominant limitation of this review relates to the potential implications of the narrow inclusion criteria. CONCLUSIONS This review is the first to synthesise economic evaluations of HIV testing strategies in sub-Saharan Africa. The majority of models exhibited dynamic, stochastic and individual properties. Model reporting against the 13 criteria in our novel tool was mixed. Future model-based economic evaluations of HIV testing strategies would benefit from transparency around the choice of modelling approach, model structure, data handling procedures and model validation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthi Vasantharoopan
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - Victoria Simms
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Yuyen Chan
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lorna Guinness
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Wamuti B, Owuor M, Liu W, Katz D, Lagat H, Otieno G, Kariithi E, Macharia P, Masyuko S, Mugambi M, Farquhar C, Weiner B. Implementation fidelity to HIV assisted partner services (aPS) during scale-up in western Kenya: a convergent mixed methods study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:511. [PMID: 37208724 PMCID: PMC10198752 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09541-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV assisted partner services (aPS) is an intervention to improve HIV status awareness among sex and drug-injecting partners of people newly diagnosed with HIV (index clients). Implementation fidelity-the degree to which an intervention is conducted as intended - is critical to effectiveness, but there are limited data about aPS fidelity when delivered by HIV testing service (HTS) providers. We explored factors affecting implementation fidelity to aPS in two high-HIV prevalence counties in western Kenya. METHODS We used convergent mixed methods adapting the conceptual framework for implementation fidelity within the aPS scale-up project. This was an implementation study examining scale-up of APS within HTS programs in Kisumu and Homa Bay counties that recruited male sex partners (MSPs) of female index clients. We defined implementation fidelity as the extent to which HTS providers followed the protocol for phone and in-person participant tracing at six expected tracing attempts. Quantitative data were collected from tracing reports in 31 facilities between November 2018 and December 2020, and in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with HTS providers. Descriptive statistics were used to describe tracing attempts. IDIs were analyzed using thematic content analysis. RESULTS Overall, 3017 MSPs were mentioned of whom 98% (2969/3017) were traced, with most tracing attempts being successful (2831/2969, 95%). Fourteen HTS providers participated in the IDIs-mostly females (10/14, 71%) with a median age of 35 years (range 25-52), who all had post-secondary education (14/14, 100%). The proportion of tracing attempts occurring by phone ranged from 47 to 66%, with the highest proportion occurring on the first attempt and lowest on the sixth attempt. Contextual factors either enhanced or impeded implementation fidelity to aPS. Positive provider attitudes towards aPS and conducive work environment factors promoted implementation fidelity, while negative MSP responses and challenging tracing conditions impeded it. CONCLUSION Interactions at the individual (provider), interpersonal (client-provider), and health systems (facility) levels affected implementation fidelity to aPS. As policymakers prioritize strategies to reduce new HIV infections, our findings highlight the importance of conducting fidelity assessments to better anticipate and mitigate the impact of contextual factors during the scale-up of interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University, Boston, USA.
| | | | - Wenjia Liu
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - David Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | | | | | - Paul Macharia
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Bryan Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Wamuti BM, Owour M, Obong’o C, Liu W, Kariithi E, Lagat H, Otieno G, Sharma M, Katz DA, Masyuko S, Farquhar C, Weiner BJ. Integration of assisted partner services within Kenya's national HIV testing services program: A qualitative study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001586. [PMID: 36962930 PMCID: PMC10022023 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Assisted partner service (aPS) augments HIV case-finding among sex partners to individuals newly diagnosed with HIV. In 2016, aPS was incorporated into the national HIV testing services (HTS) program in Kenya. We evaluated the extent of, barriers to, and facilitators of aPS integration into HTS. We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) with 32 stakeholders selected using purposive sampling at national, county, facility, and community levels. IDIs were conducted at two timepoints, at baseline from August-September 2018 in Kisumu and January-June 2019 in Homa Bay, and at follow-up from May-August 2020 to understand changes in aPS integration over time. We defined integration as the creation of linkages between the new intervention (aPS) and the existing HTS program. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. We found varying degrees of aPS integration, highest in procurement/logistics and lowest in HTS provider recruitment/training. At baseline, aPS integration was low and activities were at an introductory phase. At follow-up, aPS was integrated in almost the entire HTS program with the exception of low community awareness, which was noted at both baseline and follow-up. There was increasing routinization with establishment of clear aPS cycles, e.g., quarterly data review meetings, annual budget cycles and work-plans. Major barriers included limited government funding, staff constraints, and inadequate community-level sensitization, while key facilitators included increased resources for aPS, and community health volunteer (CHV) facilitated awareness of aPS. Varying degrees of aPS integration across different units of the national HTS program highlights challenges in funding, human resource, and public awareness. Policymakers will need to address these barriers to ensure optimal provision of aPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice M. Wamuti
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | | | - Wenjia Liu
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - David A. Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- National AIDS and STI Control Program, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Bryan J. Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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11
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Implementation process and challenges of index testing in Côte d'Ivoire from healthcare workers' perspectives. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280623. [PMID: 36753518 PMCID: PMC9907845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
A major limiting factor in combatting the HIV epidemic has been the identification of people living with HIV. Index testing programs were developed to face that challenge. Index testing is a focused HIV testing service approach in which family members and partners of people living with HIV are offered testing. Despite the implementation of index testing, there is still a gap between the estimated number of people living with HIV and those who know their status in Côte d'Ivoire. This study aimed to understand the implementation process of index testing in Côte d'Ivoire and to identify implementation challenges from healthcare workers perspectives. In January and February 2020, we conducted a qualitative study through 105 individual semi-structured interviews regarding index testing with clinical providers (physicians, nurses, and midwives) and non-clinical providers (community counselors and their supervisors) at 16 rural health facilities across four regions of Côte d'Ivoire. We asked questions regarding the index testing process, index client intake, contact tracing and testing, the challenges of implementation, and solicited recommendations on improving index testing in Côte d'Ivoire. The interviews revealed that index testing is implemented by non-clinical providers. Passive referral, by which the index client brought their contact to be tested, and providers referral, by which a healthcare worker reached out to the index client's contact, were the preferred contact tracing and testing strategies. There was not statistically significant difference between immediate and delayed notification. Reported challenges of index testing implementation included index cases refusing to give their partner's information or a partner refusing to be tested, fear of divorce, societal stigma, long distances, lack of appropriate training in index testing strategies, and lack of a private room for counseling. The recommendations given by providers to combat these was to reinforce HIV education among the population, to train healthcare workers on index testing strategies, and to improve infrastructure, transportation, and communication resources. The study showed that the elements that influenced the process of index testing in Côte d'Ivoire were multifactorial, including individual, interpersonal, health systems, and societal factors. Thus, a multi-faceted approach to overcoming challenges of index testing in Côte d'Ivoire is needed to improve the yield of index testing.
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Joel JN, Awuor P, Blanco N, Lavoie MCC, Lascko T, Ngunu C, Mwangi J, Mutisya I, Ng'eno C, Wangusi R, Koech E. Scale-up of HIV index testing in an urban population: Experiences and achievements from Nairobi County, Kenya. Trop Med Int Health 2023; 28:116-125. [PMID: 36538038 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the implementation strategies of the index testing program across Nairobi County in Kenya, assess outcomes along the HIV index testing cascade (acceptance, elicitation ratio, HIV positivity and linkage to treatment), and assess annual changes along the HIV index testing cascade during the first 2 years of implementation. METHODS Retrospective analysis of programmatic aggregate data collected from October 2017 to September 2019 after the roll-out of index testing services in 48 health facilities in Nairobi County. Proportions and ratios were calculated for acceptance, elicitation ratio, testing uptake and HIV positivity. We compared these outcomes between years using a chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test or Wilcoxon sign test, and we assessed trends using the Mann-Kendall test. RESULTS Testing among eligible partners increased from 42.4% (1471/3470) to 74.9% (6114/8159) in the general population, and the positivity yield remained high across both years (25.2% in year 1 and 24.1% in year 2). Index testing positivity yield remained significantly higher than other testing modalities (24.3% vs. 1.3%, p < 0.001). The contribution of index testing services to the total number of HIV-positive individuals identified increased from 7.5% in the first year to 28.6% in the second year (p < 0.001). More men were tested, but the positivity yield was higher among women (30.0%) and those aged 50 years or older (32.4%). Testing eligible partners in key populations (KPs) decreased from 52.4% (183/349) to 40.7% (109/268) (p = 0.674); however, the HIV positivity yield increased from 8.6% to 23.9% (p < 0.001) by the second year of implementation. The HIV positivity yield from index testing remained higher than other testing modalities (14% vs. 0.9%, p < 0.001) for KPs. CONCLUSION Index testing was well-accepted and effective in identifying individuals living with HIV in a Kenyan urban setting across both general populations and KPs. Ongoing adaptations to the strategies deployed as part of index testing services helped improve most of the outcomes along the index testing cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javies Ngui Joel
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Patrick Awuor
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Natalia Blanco
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Marie-Claude C Lavoie
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Taylor Lascko
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carol Ngunu
- Department of Health, Nairobi Metropolitan Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jonathan Mwangi
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Immaculate Mutisya
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Caroline Ng'eno
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rebecca Wangusi
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Emily Koech
- Chief Executive Officer, Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
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13
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Levy JA, Earnshaw VA, Milanti A, Waluyo A, Culbert GJ. A qualitative study of healthcare providers' attitudes toward assisted partner notification for people with HIV in Indonesia. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:71. [PMID: 36690986 PMCID: PMC9872286 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08943-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted partner notification (APN) is recommended as a public health strategy to increase HIV testing in people exposed to HIV. Yet its adoption in many countries remains at an early stage. This qualitative study sought the opinions of HIV health service providers regarding the appropriateness and feasibility of implementing APN in Indonesia where such services are on the cusp of adoption. METHODS Four focus group discussions totaling 40 health service providers were held in Jakarta, Indonesia to consider APN as an innovative concept and to share their reactions regarding its potential implementation in Indonesia. Voice-recorded discussions were conducted in Bahasa, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed. RESULTS Participants recognized APN's potential in contacting and informing the partners of HIV-positive clients of possible viral exposure. They also perceived APN's value as a client-driven service permitting clients to select which of three partner notification methods would work best for them across differing partner relationships and settings. Nonetheless, participants also identified personal and health system challenges that could impede successful APN adoption including medical and human resource limitations, the need for specialized APN training, ethical and equity considerations, and lack of sufficient clarity concerning laws and government policies regulating 3rd party disclosures. They also pointed to the job-overload, stress, personal discomfort, and the ethical uncertainty that providers might experience in delivering APN. CONCLUSION Overall, providers of HIV services embraced the concept of APN but forecast practical difficulties in key service areas where investments in resources and system change appeared necessary to ensure effective and equitable implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith A. Levy
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Health Policy & Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Valerie A. Earnshaw
- grid.33489.350000 0001 0454 4791Human Development and Family Sciences, College of Education and Human Development, University of Delaware, Newark, DE USA
| | - Ariesta Milanti
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Agung Waluyo
- grid.9581.50000000120191471Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Indonesia, Kota Depok, Jawa Barat Indonesia
| | - Gabriel J. Culbert
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Population Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
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14
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HIV Disclosure Among Sexually Infected People Living with HIV and AIDS in China: Prevalence, Influencing Factors, and Negative Outcomes. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:2411-2429. [PMID: 36580165 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03968-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
HIV disclosure is crucial for HIV prevention and control, but may also lead to discrimination, insult, and even violence against people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHAs). In this study, we examined HIV disclosure, its influencing factors, and its association with intimate partner violence (IPV) among 1153 PLWHAs through the sexual route in Jinan, Shandong Province, China. Our results showed that 76.4% (881/1153) PLWHAs had disclosed someone about their HIV infection, the HIV disclosure rates among family members, friends, spouses, and current fixed partners of PLWHAs were 43.5% (501/1153), 47.9% (552/1153), 56.8% (129/227), and 43.2% (336/777), respectively. HIV disclosure was affected by socio-demographics, disease characteristics, and psycho-social factors and varied among family members, close friends, spouses, and current fixed sexual partners. Age ≤ 33 years (aOR 1.79, 95% CI 1.27-2.53), heterosexual infection route (aOR 1.52, 95% CI 1.06-2.17), HIV diagnosis time > 36 months (aOR 1.84, 95% CI 1.30-2.59), with other chronic diseases (aOR 1.87, 95% CI 1.34-2.61), lower self-stigma (aOR 4.03-4.36, 95% CI 1.98-8.74), higher social support (aOR 1.71-1.73, 95% CI 1.03-2.83), no depression (aOR 1.54, 95% CI 1.12-2.11), and no suicidal ideation (aOR 1.79, 95% CI 1.28-2.50) were all independently associated with increased likelihood of HIV disclosure. HIV disclosure was associated with an increased risk of IPV among current fixed sexual partners (aOR 1.87, 95% CI 1.38-2.54) and spouses (aOR 2.54, 95% CI 1.41-4.56). Our findings suggest that the HIV disclosure rate of PLWHAs is still low and is affected by multiple factors. There is an urgent need to design targeted and comprehensive interventions to improve HIV disclosure. IPV prevention should also be incorporated into the intervention system of HIV disclosure to ensure adequate and continuous support for PLWHAs.
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Endalamaw A, Gilks CF, Ambaw F, Habtewold TD, Assefa Y. Universal Health Coverage for Antiretroviral Treatment: A Review. Infect Dis Rep 2022; 15:1-15. [PMID: 36648855 PMCID: PMC9844463 DOI: 10.3390/idr15010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Universal health coverage is essential for the progress to end threats of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome epidemic. The current review assesses the publication rate, strategies and barriers for antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage, equity, quality of care, and financial protection. We searched Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Of the available articles, 43.13% were on ART coverage, 40.28% were on financial protection, 10.43% were on quality of care, and 6.16% were on equity. A lack of ART, fear of unwanted disclosure, lack of transportation, unaffordable health care costs, long waiting time to receive care, and poverty were barriers to ART coverage. Catastrophic health care costs were higher among individuals who were living in rural settings, walked greater distances to reach health care institutions, had a lower socioeconomic status, and were immunocompromised. There were challenges to the provision of quality of care, including health care providers' inadequate salary, high workload and inadequate health workforce, inappropriate infrastructure, lack of training opportunities, unclear division of responsibility, and the presence of strict auditing. In conclusion, ART coverage was below the global average, and key populations were disproportionally less covered with ART in most countries. Huge catastrophic health expenditures were observed. UHC contexts of ART will be improved by reaching people with poor socioeconomic status, delivering appropriate services, establishing a proper health workforce and service stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aklilu Endalamaw
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar P.O. Box 79, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-424-690-121
| | - Charles F Gilks
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Fentie Ambaw
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar P.O. Box 79, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfa Dejenie Habtewold
- Branch of Epidemiology, Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9712 CP Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yibeltal Assefa
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
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Tseng AS, Sambai B, Monroe-Wise A, Mbogo LW, Ludwig-Barron NT, Masyuko SJ, Chohan BH, Scott JD, Sinkele W, Herbeck JT, Farquhar C, Guthrie BL. Assisted Partner Services for People Who Inject Drugs: Index Characteristics Associated With Untreated HIV in Partners. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 91:269-275. [PMID: 35969466 PMCID: PMC9588565 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted partner services (APSs) is a feasible, acceptable, and effective strategy that increases uptake of HIV testing; however, it has not been used widely among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Africa to notify sexual and injecting partners of potential exposures to HIV and provide testing services. SETTING Nairobi, Kilifi, and Mombasa counties in Kenya. METHODS PWID living with HIV (indexes) were enrolled and asked to provide contact information for sexual and injecting partners who were traced and offered HIV testing. APS efficiency was assessed by the number of indexes needed to interview (NNTI) to find 1 additional partner who was unaware of their HIV status or not on antiretroviral therapy (ART). We defined index participant characteristics associated with greater efficiency, defined as lower NNTIs. RESULTS Among 783 indexes, the NNTI to identify one partner unaware of their HIV status was 7.1 and to identify one HIV-positive partner not on ART (regardless of status awareness) was 4.1. APS was provided to 977 partners and was more efficient in identifying partners who were not on ART (n = 201) among indexes who were female (NNTI = 2.9 vs. 5.7, P < 0.001), unaware of their HIV status (NNTI = 2.2 vs. 4.2, P = 0.009), not on ART (NNTI = 2.1 vs. 4.9; P < 0.001), not enrolled in a methadone program (NNTI = 3.3 vs. 10.4, P < 0.001), reported injecting <5 years (NNTI = 3.3 vs. 5.0; P = 0.005), or from Nairobi (NNTI = 3.2 vs. 5.6, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Scaling up APS among PWID living with HIV with certain characteristics could result in more efficient APS and greater partner engagement in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley S Tseng
- Departments of Epidemiology, and
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | | | | | | | - Sarah J Masyuko
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- National AIDS and STI Control Program, Kenya Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bhavna H Chohan
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Center for Virology, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John D Scott
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; and
| | - William Sinkele
- Support for Addiction Prevention and Treatment in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Carey Farquhar
- Departments of Epidemiology, and
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; and
| | - Brandon L Guthrie
- Departments of Epidemiology, and
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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Babigumira JB, Agutu CA, Hamilton DT, van der Elst E, Hassan A, Gichuru E, Mugo PM, Farquhar C, Ndung'u T, Sirengo M, Chege W, Goodreau SM, Sanders EJ, M Graham S. Testing strategies to detect acute and prevalent HIV infection in adult outpatients seeking healthcare for symptoms compatible with acute HIV infection in Kenya: a cost-effectiveness analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058636. [PMID: 36175097 PMCID: PMC9528633 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Detection of acute and prevalent HIV infection using point-of-care nucleic acid amplification testing (POC-NAAT) among outpatients with symptoms compatible with acute HIV is critical to HIV prevention, but it is not clear if it is cost-effective compared with existing HIV testing strategies. METHODS We developed and parametrised a decision tree to compare the cost-effectiveness of (1) provider-initiated testing and counselling (PITC) using rapid tests, the standard of care; (2) scaled-up provider-initiated testing and counselling (SU-PITC) in which all patients were tested with rapid tests unless they opted out; and (3) opt-out testing and counselling using POC-NAAT, which detects both acute and prevalent infection. The model-based analysis used data from the Tambua Mapema Plus randomised controlled trial of a POC-NAAT intervention in Kenya, supplemented with results from a stochastic, agent-based network model of HIV-1 transmission and data from published literature. The analysis was conducted from the perspective of the Kenyan government using a primary outcome of cost per disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) averted over a 10-year time horizon. RESULTS After analysing the decision-analytical model, the average per patient cost of POC-NAAT was $214.9 compared with $173.6 for SU-PITC and $47.3 for PITC. The mean DALYs accumulated per patient for POC-NAAT were 0.160 compared with 0.176 for SU-PITC and 0.214 for PITC. In the incremental analysis, SU-PITC was eliminated due to extended dominance, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) comparing POC-NAAT to PITC was $3098 per DALY averted. The ICER was sensitive to disability weights for HIV/AIDS and the costs of antiretroviral therapy. CONCLUSION POC-NAAT offered to adult outpatients in Kenya who present for care with symptoms compatible with AHI is cost-effective and should be considered for inclusion as the standard of HIV testing in this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Tambua Mapema ("Discover Early") Plus study (NCT03508908) conducted in Kenya (2017-2020) i.e., Post-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B Babigumira
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Clara A Agutu
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Deven T Hamilton
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Amin Hassan
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | | | - Wairimu Chege
- National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Steven M Goodreau
- Departments of Anthropology and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Eduard J Sanders
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, UK
| | - Susan M Graham
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Departments of Medicine, Global Health, and Epidemiology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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El-Sadr WM, Platt J, Bernitz M, Reyes M. Contact Tracing: Barriers and Facilitators. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:1025-1033. [PMID: 35653650 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.306842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Contact tracing-the process of identifying, isolating, and managing infected persons and their contacts-is a recognized public health measure for controlling the transmission of infectious diseases. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, contact tracing has received intense attention. We provide a brief overview of the history of contact tracing during several major disease outbreaks in the past century: syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections, HIV infection, tuberculosis, Ebola virus disease, and COVID-19. Our discussion on the barriers to and facilitators of contact tracing offers a perspective on societal and institutional roles and dynamics, stigma as a major barrier to effective tracing efforts, and how the nature and epidemiology of the infection itself can affect its success. We explore the evolution and adaptation of contact tracing and provide insights for future programming and research. (Am J Public Health. Published online ahead of print June 2, 2022: e1-e9. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.306842).
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafaa M El-Sadr
- Wafaa M. El-Sadr and Joey Platt are with ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Melanie Bernitz is with Columbia Health, Columbia University. Melissa Reyes is with Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
| | - Joey Platt
- Wafaa M. El-Sadr and Joey Platt are with ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Melanie Bernitz is with Columbia Health, Columbia University. Melissa Reyes is with Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
| | - Melanie Bernitz
- Wafaa M. El-Sadr and Joey Platt are with ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Melanie Bernitz is with Columbia Health, Columbia University. Melissa Reyes is with Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
| | - Melissa Reyes
- Wafaa M. El-Sadr and Joey Platt are with ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Melanie Bernitz is with Columbia Health, Columbia University. Melissa Reyes is with Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
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19
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Sundararajan R, Ponticiello M, Nansera D, Jeremiah K, Muyindike W. Interventions to Increase HIV Testing Uptake in Global Settings. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:184-193. [PMID: 35441985 PMCID: PMC9110462 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00602-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review HIV testing is the critical first step to direct people living with HIV (PLWH) to treatment. However, progress is still being made towards the UNAIDS benchmark of 95% of PLWH knowing their status by 2030. Here, we discuss recent interventions to improve HIV testing uptake in global settings. Recent Findings Successful facility-based HIV testing interventions involve couples and index testing, partner notification, and offering of incentives. Community-based interventions such as home-based self-testing, mobile outreach, and hybrid approaches have improved HIV testing in low-resource settings and among priority populations. Partnerships with trusted community leaders have also increased testing among populations disproportionally impacted by HIV. Summary Recent HIV testing interventions span a breadth of facility- and community-based approaches. Continued research is needed to engage men in sub-Saharan Africa, people who inject drugs, and people who avoid biomedical care. Interventions should consider supporting linkage to care for newly diagnosed PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Sundararajan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 East 68th Street, M-130, New York, NY, 10065, USA. .,Weill Cornell Center for Global Health, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Matthew Ponticiello
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 East 68th Street, M-130, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Denis Nansera
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda.,Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Winnie Muyindike
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda.,Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
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20
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Wamuti B, Sharma M, Kariithi E, Lagat H, Otieno G, Bosire R, Masyuko S, Mugambi M, Weiner BJ, Katz DA, Farquhar C, Levin C. Cost of integrating assisted partner services in HIV testing services in Kisumu and Homa Bay counties, Kenya: a microcosting study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:69. [PMID: 35031037 PMCID: PMC8759219 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07479-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV assisted partner services (aPS), or provider notification and testing for sexual and injecting partners of people diagnosed with HIV, is shown to be safe, effective, and cost-effective and was scaled up within the national HIV testing services (HTS) program in Kenya in 2016. We estimated the costs of integrating aPS into routine HTS within an ongoing aPS scale-up project in western Kenya. METHODS We conducted microcosting using the payer perspective in 14 facilities offering aPS. Although aPS was offered to both males and females testing HIV-positive (index clients), we only collected data on female index clients and their male sex partners (MSP). We used activity-based costing to identify key aPS activities, inputs, resources, and estimated financial and economic costs of goods and services. We analyzed costs by start-up (August 2018), and recurrent costs one-year after aPS implementation (Kisumu: August 2019; Homa Bay: January 2020) and conducted time-and-motion observations of aPS activities. We estimated the incremental costs of aPS, average cost per MSP traced, tested, testing HIV-positive, and on antiretroviral therapy, cost shares, and costs disaggregated by facility. RESULTS Overall, the number of MSPs traced, tested, testing HIV-positive, and on antiretroviral therapy was 1027, 869, 370, and 272 respectively. Average unit costs per MSP traced, tested, testing HIV-positive, and on antiretroviral therapy were $34.54, $42.50, $108.71 and $152.28, respectively, which varied by county and facility client volume. The weighted average incremental cost of integrating aPS was $7,485.97 per facility per year, with recurrent costs accounting for approximately 90% of costs. The largest cost drivers were personnel (49%) and transport (13%). Providers spent approximately 25% of the HTS visit obtaining MSP contact information (HIV-negative clients: 13 out of 54 min; HIV-positive clients: 20 out of 96 min), while the median time spent per MSP traced on phone and in-person was 6 min and 2.5 hours, respectively. CONCLUSION Average facility costs will increase when integrating aPS to HTS with incremental costs largely driven by personnel and transport. Strategies to efficiently utilize healthcare personnel will be critical for effective, affordable, and sustainable aPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | | | | | | | - Rose Bosire
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Bryan J Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - David A Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Carol Levin
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
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21
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Klabbers RE, Muwonge TR, Ayikobua E, Izizinga D, Bassett IV, Kambugu A, Tsai AC, Ravicz M, Klabbers G, O’Laughlin KN. Health Worker Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators of Assisted Partner Notification for HIV for Refugees and Ugandan Nationals: A Mixed Methods Study in West Nile Uganda. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:3206-3222. [PMID: 33884511 PMCID: PMC8416880 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03265-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Assisted partner notification (APN) is recommended by the World Health Organization to notify sexual partners of HIV exposure. Since 2018, APN has been offered in Uganda to Ugandan nationals and refugees. Distinct challenges faced by individuals in refugee settlements may influence APN utilization and effectiveness. To explore APN barriers and facilitators, we extracted index client and sexual partner data from APN registers at 11 health centers providing care to refugees and Ugandan nationals in West Nile Uganda and conducted qualitative interviews with health workers (N = 32). Since APN started, 882 index clients participated in APN identifying 1126 sexual partners. Following notification, 95% (1025/1126) of partners tested for HIV; 22% (230/1025) were diagnosed with HIV with 14% (139/1025) of tested partners newly diagnosed. Fear of stigma and disclosure-related violence limit APN utilization and effectiveness. Prospective research involving index clients and sexual partners is needed to facilitate safe APN optimization in refugee settlements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin E. Klabbers
- Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Timothy R. Muwonge
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Ayikobua
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Diego Izizinga
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ingrid V. Bassett
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Andrew Kambugu
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alexander C. Tsai
- Center for Global Health and Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Miranda Ravicz
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Gonnie Klabbers
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life
Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Kelli N. O’Laughlin
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
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22
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Uzoaru F, Nwaozuru U, Ong JJ, Obi F, Obiezu-Umeh C, Tucker JD, Shato T, Mason SL, Carter V, Manu S, BeLue R, Ezechi O, Iwelunmor J. Costs of implementing community-based intervention for HIV testing in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. Implement Sci Commun 2021; 2:73. [PMID: 34225820 PMCID: PMC8259076 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-021-00177-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community-based interventions (CBIs) are interventions aimed at improving the well-being of people in a community. CBIs for HIV testing seek to increase the availability of testing services to populations that have been identified as at high risk by reaching them in homes, schools, or community centers. However, evidence for a detailed cost analysis of these community-based interventions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is limited. We conducted a systematic review of the cost analysis of HIV testing interventions in SSA. METHODS Keyword search was conducted on SCOPUS, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Global Health databases. Three categories of key terms used were cost (implementation cost OR cost-effectiveness OR cost analysis OR cost-benefit OR marginal cost), intervention (HIV testing), and region (sub-Saharan Africa OR sub-Saharan Africa OR SSA). CBI studies were included if they primarily focused on HIV testing, was implemented in SSA, and used micro-costing or ingredients approach. RESULTS We identified 1533 citations. After screening, ten studies were included in the review: five from East Africa and five from Southern Africa. Two studies conducted cost-effectiveness analysis, and one study was a cost-utility analysis. The remainder seven studies were cost analyses. Four intervention types were identified: HIV self-testing (HIVST), home-based, mobile, and Provider Initiated Testing and Counseling. Commonly costed resources included personnel (n = 9), materials and equipment (n = 6), and training (n = 5). Cost outcomes reported included total intervention cost (n = 9), cost per HIV test (n = 9), cost per diagnosis (n = 5), and cost per linkage to care (n = 3). Overall, interventions were implemented at a higher cost than controls, with the largest cost difference with HIVST compared to facility-based testing. CONCLUSION To better inform policy, there is an urgent need to evaluate the costs associated with implementing CBIs in SSA. It is important for cost reports to be detailed, uniform, and informed by economic evaluation guidelines. This approach minimizes biases that may lead decision-makers to underestimate the resources required to scale up, sustain, or reproduce successful interventions in other settings. In an evolving field of implementation research, this review contributes to current resources on implementation cost studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florida Uzoaru
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Ucheoma Nwaozuru
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jason J Ong
- Department of Clinical Research and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Felix Obi
- Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Chisom Obiezu-Umeh
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Thembekile Shato
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Stacey L Mason
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Victoria Carter
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sunita Manu
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rhonda BeLue
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Oliver Ezechi
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Juliet Iwelunmor
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
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23
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Kariithi E, Sharma M, Kemunto E, Lagat H, Otieno G, Wamuti BM, Katz DA, Obong'o C, Macharia P, Bosire R, Masyuko S, Mugambi M, Levin CE, Liu W, Roy Paladhi U, Weiner BJ, Farquhar C. Using Assisted Partner Services for HIV Testing and the Treatment of Males and Their Female Sexual Partners: Protocol for an Implementation Science Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e27262. [PMID: 34014172 PMCID: PMC8176338 DOI: 10.2196/27262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the effective scale-up of HIV testing and treatment programs, only 75% of people living with HIV (PLWH) globally know their status, and this rate is lower among men. This highlights the importance of implementing HIV testing and linkage interventions with a high uptake in this population. In a cluster randomized controlled trial conducted in Kenya between 2013 and 2015, we found that assisted partner services (APS) for HIV-exposed partners of newly diagnosed PLWH safely reached more HIV-exposed individuals with HIV testing compared with client referral alone. However, more data are needed to evaluate APS implementation in a real-world setting. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness, acceptability, fidelity, and cost of APS when integrated into existing HIV testing services (HTS) in Western Kenya. METHODS Our study team from the University of Washington and PATH is integrating APS into 31 health facilities in Western Kenya. We are enrolling females newly diagnosed with HIV (index clients) who consent to receiving APS, their male sexual partners, and female sexual partners of male sexual partners who tested HIV positive. Female index clients and sexual partners testing HIV positive will be followed up at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months postenrollment to assess linkage to care, antiretroviral therapy initiation, and HIV viral load suppression. We will evaluate the acceptability, fidelity, and cost of real-world implementation of APS via in-depth interviews conducted with national, county, and subcounty-level policy makers responsible for HTS. Facility health staff providing HTS and APS, in addition to staff working with the study project team, will also be interviewed. We will also conduct direct observations of facility infrastructure and clinical procedures and extract data from the facilities and county and national databases. RESULTS As of March 2020, we have recruited 1724 female index clients, 3201 male partners, and 1585 female partners. We have completed study recruitment as well as 6-week (2936/2973, 98.75%), 6-month (1596/1641, 97.25%), and 12-month (725/797, 90.9%) follow-up visits. Preliminary analyses show that facilities scaling up APS identify approximately 12-18 new HIV-positive males for every 100 men contacted and tested. We are currently completing the remaining follow-up interviews and incorporating an HIV self-testing component into the study in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS The results will help bridge the gap between clinical research findings and real-world practice and provide guidance regarding optimal strategies for APS integration into routine HIV service delivery. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/27262.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Beatrice M Wamuti
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - David A Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Christopher Obong'o
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Paul Macharia
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Rose Bosire
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Carol E Levin
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Wenjia Liu
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Unmesha Roy Paladhi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Bryan J Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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24
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Monroe-Wise A, Mbogo L, Guthrie B, Bukusi D, Sambai B, Chohan B, Scott J, Cherutich P, Musyoki H, Bosire R, Dunbar M, Macharia P, Masyuko S, Wilkinson E, De Oliveira T, Ludwig-Barron N, Sinkele B, Herbeck J, Farquhar C. Peer-mediated HIV assisted partner services to identify and link to care HIV-positive and HCV-positive people who inject drugs: a cohort study protocol. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e041083. [PMID: 33895711 PMCID: PMC8074565 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Targeted, tailored interventions to test high-risk individuals for HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are vital to achieving HIV control and HCV microelimination in Africa. Compared with the general population, people who inject drugs (PWID) are at increased risk of HIV and HCV and are less likely to be tested or successfully treated. Assisted partner services (APS) increases HIV testing among partners of people living with HIV and improves case finding and linkage to care. We describe a study in Kenya examining whether APS can be adapted to find, test and link to HIV care the partners of HIV-positive PWID using a network of community-embedded peer educators (PEs). Our study also identifies HCV-positive partners and uses phylogenetic analysis to determine risk factors for onward transmission of both viruses. METHODS This prospective cohort study leverages a network of PEs to identify 1000 HIV-positive PWID for enrolment as index participants. Each index completes a questionnaire and provides names and contact information of all sexual and injecting partners during the previous 3 years. PEs then use a stepwise locator protocol to engage partners in the community and bring them to study sites for enrolment, questionnaire completion and rapid HIV and HCV testing. Outcomes include number and type of partners per index who are mentioned, enrolled, tested, diagnosed with HIV and HCV and linked to care. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Potential index participants are screened for intimate partner violence (IPV) and those at high risk are not eligible to enrol. Those at medium risk are monitored for IPV following enrolment. A community advisory board engages in feedback and discussion between the community and the research team. A safety monitoring board discusses study progress and reviews data, including IPV monitoring data. Dissemination plans include presentations at quarterly Ministry of Health meetings, local and international conferences and publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03447210, Pre-results stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliza Monroe-Wise
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Loice Mbogo
- HIV Testing and Counseling and HIV Prevention, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Brandon Guthrie
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - David Bukusi
- HIV Testing and Counseling and HIV Prevention, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Betsy Sambai
- HIV Testing and Counseling and HIV Prevention, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bhavna Chohan
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Scott
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | | | - Rose Bosire
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Matthew Dunbar
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washinigton, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Kenya's Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eduan Wilkinson
- KwaZulu-Natal Research and Innovation Sequencing Platform, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tulio De Oliveira
- KwaZulu-Natal Research and Innovation Sequencing Platform, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Bill Sinkele
- Support for Addiction Prevention and Treatment in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joshua Herbeck
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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25
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Lasry A, Danho NK, Hulland EN, Diokouri AD, Kingbo MH, Doumatey NIL, Ekra AK, Ebah LG, Kouamé H, Hedje J, Jean-Baptiste AE. Outcome of HIV Testing Among Family Members of Index Cases Across 36 Facilities in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:554-561. [PMID: 32875461 PMCID: PMC7855395 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03002-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In Côte d'Ivoire, the Family Approach to Counseling and Testing (FACT) program began in 2015 and provides facility-based HIV testing to the sexual partners, children and other household family members of HIV-positive index cases. We evaluated whether the FACT program is an effective approach to HIV case finding. We reviewed 1762 index patient charts to evaluate outcomes of the FACT program, held across 36 facilities in Abidjan. Index cases enumerated a total of 644 partners, 2301 children and 508 other family members including parents and siblings. Among the partners tested for HIV, the positivity rate was 21%; for children the positivity rate was 5% and for all other family members the positivity rate was 11%. Offering HIV testing services to the family members of HIV positive index cases is an effective approach to case finding in Côte d'Ivoire. Particularly, offering HIV testing to the partners of positive women index cases can be key to identifying previously undiagnosed men and linking them to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arielle Lasry
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Nathalie K Danho
- Fondation Ariel Glaser pour la lutte contre le SIDA pédiatrique, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Erin N Hulland
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Annie D Diokouri
- Fondation Ariel Glaser pour la lutte contre le SIDA pédiatrique, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Marie-Huguette Kingbo
- Fondation Ariel Glaser pour la lutte contre le SIDA pédiatrique, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | | | - Alexandre K Ekra
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Laurence G Ebah
- Fondation Ariel Glaser pour la lutte contre le SIDA pédiatrique, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Hoba Kouamé
- Elisabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Judith Hedje
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Anne-Eudes Jean-Baptiste
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
- World Health Organization, Country Representative Office, Abuja, Nigeria
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26
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Sharma M, Kariithi E, Kemunto E, Otieno G, Lagat H, Wamuti B, Obongo C, Macharia P, Masyuko S, Bosire R, Mugambi M, Weiner B, Farquhar C. High Acceptability of Assisted Partner Notification Services Among HIV-Positive Females in Kenya: Results From an Ongoing Implementation Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 86:56-61. [PMID: 33044322 PMCID: PMC8214933 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted partner services (aPS) involves notification and HIV testing for sexual partners of persons diagnosed HIV-positive (index clients). Because the impact of aPS is contingent on high acceptance, we assessed characteristics and reasons for nonenrollment among female index clients in an ongoing scale-up project. METHODS We analyzed data from HIV-positive females offered aPS in 31 facilities from May 2018 to August 2019. We compared sociodemographic characteristics by aPS enrollment (accepted, refused, and ineligible) and used multivariate binomial regression to assess associations between demographics and refusal. RESULTS Twenty-four thousand four hundred eighteen females received HIV testing and 1050 (4.3%) tested HIV-positive; 839 females enrolled in aPS (80%), 59 refused (6%), and 152 were ineligible (14%). APS uptake did not differ by age, testing history, or testing type (provider initiated vs. client initiated). Females refusing aPS were more likely to have completed secondary school [adjusted relative risk (aRR) 2.03, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13 to 2.82] and be divorced/separated (aRR: 3.09, 95% CI: 1.39 to 6.86) or single (aRR: 2.66, 95% CI: 1.31 to 5.42) compared with married/cohabitating. Reasons for refusing aPS included not feeling emotionally ready (31%) and reporting no sexual partners in past 3 years (22%). Reasons for ineligibility included fear or risk of intimate partner violence (9%), previous HIV diagnosis (9%), or insufficient time for aPS provision (3%). CONCLUSIONS APS has high acceptability among HIV-positive females regardless of age or testing history. More counseling may be needed to increase uptake among females with higher education and those who are separated/single. Follow-up for females not emotionally ready or who had insufficient time for aPS in their clinic visit can improve coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | - Paul Macharia
- Ministry of Health-National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Ministry of Health-National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rose Bosire
- Center for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Mugambi
- Ministry of Health-National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bryan Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle USA
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Drammeh B, Medley A, Dale H, De AK, Diekman S, Yee R, Aholou T, Lasry A, Auld A, Baack B, Duffus W, Shahul E, Wong V, Grillo M, Al-Samarrai T, Ally S, Nyangulu M, Nyirenda R, Olivier J, Chidarikire T, Khanyile N, Kayange AA, Rwabiyago OE, Kategile U, Bisimba J, Weber RA, Ncube G, Maguwu O, Pietersen I, Mali D, Dzinotyiweyi E, Nelson L, Bosco MJ, Dalsone K, Apolot M, Anangwe S, Soo LK, Mugambi M, Mbayiha A, Mugwaneza P, Malamba SS, Phiri A, Chisenga T, Boyd M, Temesgan C, Shimelis M, Weldegebreal T, Getachew M, Balachandra S, Eboi E, Shasha W, Doumatey N, Adjoua D, Meribe C, Gwamna J, Gado P, John-Dada I, Mukinda E, Lukusa LFK, Kalenga L, Bunga S, Achyut V, Mondi J, Loeto P, Mogomotsi G, Ledikwe J, Ramphalla P, Tlhomola M, Mirembe JK, Nkwoh T, Eno L, Bonono L, Honwana N, Chicuecue N, Simbine A, Malimane I, Dube L, Mirira M, Mndzebele P, Frawley A, Cardo YMR, Behel S. Sex Differences in HIV Testing - 20 PEPFAR-Supported Sub-Saharan African Countries, 2019. MMWR-MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2020; 69:1801-1806. [PMID: 33270608 PMCID: PMC7714024 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6948a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Lagat H, Sharma M, Kariithi E, Otieno G, Katz D, Masyuko S, Mugambi M, Wamuti B, Weiner B, Farquhar C. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on HIV Testing and Assisted Partner Notification Services, Western Kenya. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:3010-3013. [PMID: 32488552 PMCID: PMC7265868 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02938-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
- International Clinical Research Center (ICRC), Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | - Edward Kariithi
- PATH, Kisumu, Kenya
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | - David Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Ministry of Health-National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Mugambi
- Ministry of Health-National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Bryan Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Time to HIV testing of sexual contacts identified by HIV-positive index clients in Siaya County, Kenya. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238794. [PMID: 32898159 PMCID: PMC7478530 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
There are no studies on time to test since notification among identified sexual contacts of HIV-positive index clients using program data in Siaya County and Kenya. We sought to understand time to HIV testing by contact characteristics after identification to inform targeted testing interventions. We retrospectively analyzed data from adult (aged ≥18 years) sexual contacts identified by HIV-positive index clients from 117 health facilities in Siaya County (June 2017–August 2018). We used Chi-square tests to assess for differences in characteristics of contacts by HIV testing. We performed Cox proportional hazards analysis and time to HIV testing of contacts analysis including time-varying covariates (cluster-adjusted by facility) to assess characteristics (age, sex, and relationship to index client) associated with time to HIV-testing since notification. Sexual contacts not tested were right censored at last follow-up date. We calculated hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals to evaluate characteristics associated with time to testing. Of the 6,845 contacts included in this analysis, 3,858 (56.4%) were men. Most were aged 25–34 years (3,209 [46.9%]). Median time to contact testing was 14.5 days (interquartile range, 2.5–62). On multivariable analysis, contacts aged 18–24 years (aHR, 1.32 [95% CI: 1.01–1.73], p = 0.040) and 25–34 years (aHR, 1.18 [95% CI: 1.01–1.39], p = 0.038) had shorter time to HIV testing than those aged 35–44 years. Married polygamous (aHR, 1.12 [95% CI: 1.01–1.25], p = 0.039) and single contacts (aHR, 1.17 [95% CI: 1.08–1.27], p <0.001) had shorter time to HIV testing than married monogamous contacts. Non-spouse sexual contacts had shorter time to HIV testing than spouses, (aHR, 1.23 [95% CI: 1.15–1.32], p <0.001). We recommend enhanced differentiated partner services targeting older adults, married monogamous, and spouse sexual contacts to facilitate early diagnosis, same day treatment, and prevention in Western Kenya and sub-Saharan Africa at large.
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Makurumidze R, Decroo T, Lynen L, Chinwadzimba ZK, Van Damme W, Hakim J, Rusakaniko S. District-level strategies to control the HIV epidemic in Zimbabwe: a practical example of precision public health. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:393. [PMID: 32847619 PMCID: PMC7449062 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05234-8] [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: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study using survey and programme data to assess district-level performance along the HIV care cascade (HIV testing target achievement, linkage to ART and ART coverage) in order to formulate district-specific recommendations, taking into consideration prevalence and yield of testing. Results Data from 60 districts were analysed. Forty-eight districts (80.0%) surpassed 90% of their 2018 HIV testing targets. Linkage to ART was less than 90% in 40 districts (83.3%). Thirty districts (50.0%) had ART coverage above 90%. Of the 30 districts with suboptimal (< 90%) ART coverage, 18 districts had achieved high HIV testing target but with suboptimal linkage to ART, 6 had achieved high HIV testing targets and high linkage to ART, 4 had both suboptimal HIV testing target achievement and linkage to ART and 2 had suboptimal HIV testing target achievement and high linkage to ART. Priority should be given to districts with suboptimal ART coverage. Remediation strategies should be tailored to address the poorly performing stage of the cascade in each of the districts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Makurumidze
- College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe. .,Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium. .,Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Tom Decroo
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Research Foundation of Flanders, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Wim Van Damme
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, Free University of Brussels (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - James Hakim
- College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Knowledge of HIV status is the gateway to HIV treatment and prevention, and optimizing this pillar is essential to bend the curve of the HIV epidemic toward zero new infections. This review will discuss the epidemiology of serostatus awareness, including disparities among key populations, and explore interventions and societal barriers. RECENT FINDINGS Rates of serostatus awareness have improved overall; however, progress is lagging in many regions, nations and populations, with substantial disparities seen among key populations. These populations and their partners now contribute the majority of new infections, fueling the epidemic. Data support a variety of interventions that have demonstrated effectiveness in increasing new diagnoses, particularly among underserved populations. Structural and societal barriers such as stigma, discriminatory laws and policies, and social determinants of health disproportionately affect key populations, and these must be addressed to achieve equity and end the epidemic. SUMMARY According to United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), the pace of progress toward epidemic control has slowed. Achieving substantial increases in serostatus awareness to meet 2020 and 2030 UNAIDS goals will require attacking complex societal barriers while bringing evidence-based interventions to scale in each nation and key population. A robust advocacy effort is now needed as political will and funding wane.
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Nosyk B, Zang X, Krebs E, Enns B, Min JE, Behrends CN, Del Rio C, Dombrowski JC, Feaster DJ, Golden M, Marshall BDL, Mehta SH, Metsch LR, Pandya A, Schackman BR, Shoptaw S, Strathdee SA. Ending the HIV epidemic in the USA: an economic modelling study in six cities. Lancet HIV 2020; 7:e491-e503. [PMID: 32145760 PMCID: PMC7338235 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(20)30033-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The HIV epidemic in the USA is a collection of diverse local microepidemics. We aimed to identify optimal combination implementation strategies of evidence-based interventions to reach 90% reduction of incidence in 10 years, in six US cities that comprise 24·1% of people living with HIV in the USA. METHODS In this economic modelling study, we used a dynamic HIV transmission model calibrated with the best available evidence on epidemiological and structural conditions for six US cities: Atlanta (GA), Baltimore (MD), Los Angeles (CA), Miami (FL), New York City (NY), and Seattle (WA). We assessed 23 040 combinations of 16 evidence-based interventions (ie, HIV prevention, testing, treatment, engagement, and re-engagement) to identify combination strategies providing the greatest health benefit while remaining cost-effective. Main outcomes included averted HIV infections, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), total cost (in 2018 US$), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER; from the health-care sector perspective, 3% annual discount rate). Interventions were implemented at previously documented and ideal (90% coverage or adoption) scale-up, and sustained from 2020 to 2030, with outcomes evaluated until 2040. FINDINGS Optimal combination strategies providing health benefit and cost-effectiveness contained between nine (Seattle) and 13 (Miami) individual interventions. If implemented at previously documented scale-up, these strategies could reduce incidence by between 30·7% (95% credible interval 19·1-43·7; Seattle) and 50·1% (41·5-58·0; New York City) by 2030, at ICERs ranging from cost-saving in Atlanta, Baltimore, and Miami, to $95 416 per QALY in Seattle. Incidence reductions reached between 39·5% (26·3-53·8) in Seattle and 83·6% (70·8-87·0) in Baltimore at ideal implementation. Total costs of implementing strategies across the cities at previously documented scale-up reached $559 million per year in 2024; however, costs were offset by long-term reductions in new infections and delayed disease progression, with Atlanta, Baltimore, and Miami projecting cost savings over the 20 year study period. INTERPRETATION Evidence-based interventions can deliver substantial public health and economic value; however, complementary strategies to overcome social and structural barriers to HIV care will be required to reach national targets of the ending the HIV epidemic initiative by 2030. FUNDING National Institutes of Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohdan Nosyk
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
| | - Xiao Zang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Emanuel Krebs
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Benjamin Enns
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jeong E Min
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Czarina N Behrends
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carlos Del Rio
- Rollins School of Public Health and Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Julia C Dombrowski
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Disease, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Daniel J Feaster
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Leonard M Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Matthew Golden
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Disease, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Shruti H Mehta
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lisa R Metsch
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ankur Pandya
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bruce R Schackman
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Weng R, Yu W, Hong F, Zhang C, Wen L, Wang F, Luo Y, Ye J, Tang F, Wang H, Chen X, Cai Y. High Willingness to Participate in Partner Notification among Women Attending Reproductive Health and STI Clinics in Shenzhen, China: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E386. [PMID: 31936047 PMCID: PMC7013575 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17020386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Genital Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STI) worldwide. We explored the factors associated with willingness to participate in partner notification (PN) among women attending reproductive health and STI clinics in Shenzhen, China. An anonymous questionnaire was used to collect the sociodemographic characteristics, STI histories, and willingness to participate in routine CT screening and partner notification. In total, 87.31% (n = 10,780) of participants were willing to notify their sex partner(s) if they were diagnosed with a CT infection. Willingness to complete PN was significantly associated with: being married, residing in Shenzhen ≥1 year, having completed junior college or higher, not currently reporting STI-related symptoms, willing to have routine CT screening, and having a correct understanding of the health sequelae of CT infection. Nearly all women surveyed at reproductive health and STI clinics in Shenzhen reported willingness to complete PN. Promoting PN in these settings could help detect a large number of additional CT cases. Our findings provide evidence and implications for public health interventions on PN and suggest that targeted interventions are urgently needed for particular subpopulations including those not currently married, with shorter residency, lower education, and less awareness about the dangers of CT infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongxing Weng
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Weiye Yu
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Fuchang Hong
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Chunlai Zhang
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Lizhang Wen
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Feng Wang
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Yiting Luo
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Jianbin Ye
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Fen Tang
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Honglin Wang
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
| | - Xiangsheng Chen
- Peking Union Medical College Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing 210042, China;
- National Center for Sexually Transmitted Disease Control, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Yumao Cai
- Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518020, China; (R.W.); (W.Y.); (F.H.); (C.Z.); (L.W.); (F.W.); (Y.L.); (J.Y.); (F.T.); (H.W.)
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Optimal HIV testing strategies for South Africa: a model-based evaluation of population-level impact and cost-effectiveness. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12621. [PMID: 31477764 PMCID: PMC6718403 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49109-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Although many African countries have achieved high levels of HIV diagnosis, funding constraints have necessitated greater focus on more efficient testing approaches. We compared the impact and cost-effectiveness of several potential new testing strategies in South Africa, and assessed the prospects of achieving the UNAIDS target of 95% of HIV-positive adults diagnosed by 2030. We developed a mathematical model to evaluate the potential impact of home-based testing, mobile testing, assisted partner notification, testing in schools and workplaces, and testing of female sex workers (FSWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), family planning clinic attenders and partners of pregnant women. In the absence of new testing strategies, the diagnosed fraction is expected to increase from 90.6% in 2020 to 93.8% by 2030. Home-based testing combined with self-testing would have the greatest impact, increasing the fraction diagnosed to 96.5% by 2030, and would be highly cost-effective compared to currently funded HIV interventions, with a cost per life year saved (LYS) of $394. Testing in FSWs and assisted partner notification would be cost-saving; the cost per LYS would also be low in the case of testing MSM ($20/LYS) and self-testing by partners of pregnant women ($130/LYS).
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Wagner AD, Crocker J, Liu S, Cherutich P, Gimbel S, Fernandes Q, Mugambi M, Ásbjörnsdóttir K, Masyuko S, Wagenaar BH, Nduati R, Sherr K. Making Smarter Decisions Faster: Systems Engineering to Improve the Global Public Health Response to HIV. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2019; 16:279-291. [PMID: 31197648 PMCID: PMC6635031 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-019-00449-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review offers an operational definition of systems engineering (SE) as applied to public health, reviews applications of SE in the field of HIV, and identifies opportunities and challenges of broader application of SE in global health. RECENT FINDINGS SE involves the deliberate sequencing of three steps: diagnosing a problem, evaluating options using modeling or optimization, and providing actionable recommendations. SE includes diverse tools (from process improvement to mathematical modeling) applied to decisions at various levels (from local staffing decisions to planning national-level roll-out of new interventions). Contextual factors are crucial to effective decision-making, but there are gaps in understanding global decision-making processes. Integrating SE into pre-service training and translating SE tools to be more accessible could increase utilization of SE approaches in global health. SE is a promising, but under-recognized approach to improve public health response to HIV globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjuli D Wagner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Jonny Crocker
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shan Liu
- Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Sarah Gimbel
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Family and Child Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Quinhas Fernandes
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Melissa Mugambi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Ruth Nduati
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Sherr
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Hershow RB, Zimba CC, Mweemba O, Chibwe KF, Phanga T, Dunda W, Matenga T, Mutale W, Chi BH, Rosenberg NE, Maman S. Perspectives on HIV partner notification, partner HIV self-testing and partner home-based HIV testing by pregnant and postpartum women in antenatal settings: a qualitative analysis in Malawi and Zambia. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 3:e25293. [PMID: 31321884 PMCID: PMC6639664 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV testing male partners of pregnant and postpartum women can lead to improved health outcomes for women, partners and infants. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, few male partners get HIV tested during their partner's pregnancy in spite of several promising approaches to increase partner testing uptake. We assessed stakeholders' views and preferences of partner notification, home-based testing and secondary distribution of self-test kits to understand whether offering choices for partner HIV testing may increase acceptability. METHODS Interviewers conducted semi-structured interviews with HIV-negative (N = 39) and HIV-positive (N = 41) pregnant/postpartum women, male partners of HIV-negative (N = 14) and HIV-positive (N = 14) pregnant/postpartum women, healthcare workers (N = 19) and policymakers (N = 16) in Malawi and Zambia. Interviews covered views of each partner testing approach and preferred approaches; healthcare workers were also asked about perceptions of a choice-based approach. Interviews were transcribed, translated and analysed to compare perspectives across country and participant types. RESULTS Most participants within each stakeholder group considered all three partner testing strategies acceptable. Relationship conflict was discussed as a potential adverse consequence for each approach. For partner notification, additional barriers included women losing letters, being fearful to give partners letters, being unable to read and men refusing to come to the clinic. For home-based testing, additional barriers included lack of privacy or confidentiality and fear of experiencing community-level HIV stigma. For HIV self-test kits, additional barriers included lack of counselling, false results and poor linkage to care. Preferred male partner testing options varied. Participants preferred partner notification due to their respect for clinical authority, home-based testing due to their desire to prioritize convenience and clinical authority, and self-test kits due to their desire to prioritize confidentiality. Less than half of couples interviewed selected the same preferred male partner testing option as their partner. Most healthcare workers felt the choice-based approach would be acceptable and feasible, but noted implementation challenges in personnel, resources or space. CONCLUSIONS Most stakeholders considered different approaches to partner HIV testing to be acceptable, but concerns were raised about each. A choice-based approach may allow women to select their preferred method of partner testing; however, implementation challenges need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca B Hershow
- Department of Health BehaviorUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public HealthChapel HillNCUSA
| | | | - Oliver Mweemba
- Department of Health Promotion and EducationUniversity of ZambiaSchool of Public HealthLusakaZambia
| | - Kasapo F Chibwe
- Department of Health Promotion and EducationUniversity of ZambiaSchool of Public HealthLusakaZambia
| | | | - Wezzie Dunda
- University of North Carolina Project MalawiLilongweMalawi
| | - Tulani Matenga
- Department of Health Promotion and EducationUniversity of ZambiaSchool of Public HealthLusakaZambia
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- Department of Health PolicySchool of Public HealthUniversity of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Benjamin H Chi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of MedicineChapel HillNCUSA
| | - Nora E Rosenberg
- Department of Health BehaviorUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public HealthChapel HillNCUSA
- University of North Carolina Project MalawiLilongweMalawi
| | - Suzanne Maman
- Department of Health BehaviorUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public HealthChapel HillNCUSA
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Masyuko SJ, Cherutich PK, Contesse MG, Maingi PM, Wamuti BM, Macharia PM, Bukusi DE, Otieno FA, Spiegel HML, Dunbar MD, Golden MR, Richardson BA, Farquhar C. Index participant characteristics and HIV assisted partner services efficacy in Kenya: results of a cluster randomized trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 3:e25305. [PMID: 31321887 PMCID: PMC6639668 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We have previously demonstrated that assisted partner services (aPS) increases HIV testing and case finding among partners of persons living with HIV (PLHIV) in a cluster randomized trial in Kenya. However, the efficacy of aPS may vary across populations. In this analysis, we explore differences in aPS efficacy by characteristics of index participants. METHODS Eighteen HIV testing sites were randomized to immediate versus 6-week delayed aPS. Participants were PLHIV (or index participants) and their sexual partners. Partners of index participants were contacted for HIV testing and linked to care if HIV positive. Primary outcomes were the number of partners per index participant who: 1) tested for HIV, 2) tested HIV positive and 3) enrolled in HIV care. We used generalized estimating equations to assess differences in aPS efficacy by region, testing location, gender, age and knowledge of HIV status. RESULTS From 2013 to 2015, the study enrolled 1119 index participants, 625 of whom were in the immediate group. These index participants named 1286 sexual partners. Immediate aPS was more efficacious than delayed aPS in promoting HIV testing among partners in high compared to low HIV prevalence regions (Nyanza incidence rate ratio (IRR) 7.2; 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.4, 9.6 vs. Nairobi/Central IRR 3.4 95% CI 2.3, 4.8). Higher rates of partner HIV testing were also observed for index participants in rural/peri-urban compared to urban sites (IRR 6.6; 95% CI 4.5, 9.6 vs. IRR 3.5 95% CI 2.5, 5.0 respectively), for female versus male index participants (IRR 5.8 95% CI 4.2, 7.9 vs. IRR 3.7; 95% CI 2.4, 5.8 respectively) and for newly diagnosed versus known HIV-positive index participants (IRR 6.0 95% CI 4.2, 8.7 vs. IRR 3.3; 95% CI 2.0, 7.7 respectively). Providing aPS to female versus male index participants also had a significantly higher HIV case finding rate (IRR 9.1; 95% CI 4.0, 20.9 vs. IRR 3.2 95% CI 1.7, 6.0 respectively.) CONCLUSIONS: While it is known that aPS promotes increases in HIV testing and case finding, this is the first study to demonstrate significant differences in aPS efficacy across characteristics of the index participant. Understanding these differences and their drivers will be critical as aPS is brought to scale in order to ensure all PLHIV have access to these services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Masyuko
- National AIDS and STI Control ProgramMinistry of HealthNairobiKenya
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Peter K Cherutich
- Department of Preventive and Promotive Health ServicesMinistry of HealthNairobiKenya
| | | | - Peter M Maingi
- VCT and HIV Prevention UnitKenyatta National HospitalNairobiKenya
| | - Beatrice M Wamuti
- Department of Research and ProgramsKenyatta National HospitalNairobiKenya
| | - Paul M Macharia
- National AIDS and STI Control ProgramMinistry of HealthNairobiKenya
| | - David E Bukusi
- VCT and HIV Prevention UnitKenyatta National HospitalNairobiKenya
| | - Felix A Otieno
- Department of Research and ProgramsKenyatta National HospitalNairobiKenya
| | - Hans ML Spiegel
- Department of Health and Human ServicesKelly Government SolutionsContractor to National Institute of Allergy and Infectious DiseasesNational Institutes of HealthRockvilleMDUSA
| | - Matthew D Dunbar
- Department of Computer Science and DemographyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | | | - Barbra A Richardson
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
- Department of BiostatisticsUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
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Nguyen VTT, Phan HTT, Kato M, Nguyen Q, Le Ai KA, Vo SH, Thanh DC, Baggaley RC, Johnson CC. Community-led HIV testing services including HIV self-testing and assisted partner notification services in Vietnam: lessons from a pilot study in a concentrated epidemic setting. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 3:e25301. [PMID: 31321903 PMCID: PMC6639698 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The HIV epidemic in Vietnam is concentrated in key populations and their partners - people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, sex workers and partners of people living with HIV. These groups have poor access to and uptake of conventional HIV testing services (HTS). To address this gap, lay provider- and self-testing and assisted partner notification (aPN) were introduced and delivered by the community. We explored the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing aPN as part of community testing services for key populations. METHODS Lay provider testing and self-testing was started in January 2017, and targeted key populations and their partners. Since July 2017, aPN was introduced. HTS was offered at drop-in houses or coffee shops in Thai Nguyen and Can Tho provinces. All self-testing was assisted and observed by peer educators. Both in-person and social network methods were used to mobilize key populations to test for HIV and offer HTS to partners of people living with HIV. Client-level data, including demographic information and self-reported risk behaviour, were collected on site by peer educators. RESULTS Between January 2017 and May 2018, 3978 persons from key populations were tested through community-led HTS; 66.7% were first-time testers. Of the 3978 clients, 3086 received HTS from a lay provider and 892 self-tested in the presence of a lay provider. Overall, 245 (6.2% of tested clients) had reactive results, 231 (94.3%) were confirmed to be HIV positive; 215/231 (93.1%) initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART). Of 231 adult HIV-positive clients, 186 (80.5%) were provided voluntary aPN, and 105 of their partners were contacted and received HTS. The ratio of partners who tested for HIV per index client was 0.56. Forty-four (41.9%) partners of index clients receiving HTS were diagnosed with HIV, 97.7% initiated ART during the study period. No social harm was identified or reported. CONCLUSIONS Including aPN as part of community-led HTS for key populations and their partners is feasible and effective, particularly for reaching first-time testers and undiagnosed HIV clients. Scale-up of aPN within community-led HTS for key populations is essential for achieving the United Nations 90-90-90 targets in Vietnam.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Masaya Kato
- World Health Organization, Country OfficeHanoiVietnam
| | | | - Kim A Le Ai
- Thai Nguyen Provincial AIDS CentreThai Nguyen CityVietnam
| | - Son H Vo
- Viet Nam Authority for HIV/AIDS ControlHanoiVietnam
| | - Duong C Thanh
- National Institute for Hygiene and EpidemiologyHanoiVietnam
| | | | - Cheryl C Johnson
- HIV DepartmentWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
- Clinical Research DepartmentLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
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Lasry A, Medley A, Behel S, Mujawar MI, Cain M, Diekman ST, Rurangirwa J, Valverde E, Nelson R, Agolory S, Alebachew A, Auld AF, Balachandra S, Bunga S, Chidarikire T, Dao VQ, Dee J, Doumatey LN, Dzinotyiweyi E, Dziuban EJ, Ekra KA, Fuller WB, Herman-Roloff A, Honwana NB, Khanyile N, Kim EJ, Kitenge SF, Lacson RS, Loeto P, Malamba SS, Mbayiha AH, Mekonnen A, Meselu MG, Miller LA, Mogomotsi GP, Mugambi MK, Mulenga L, Mwangi JW, Mwangi J, Nicoué AA, Nyangulu MK, Pietersen IC, Ramphalla P, Temesgen C, Vergara AE, Wei S. Scaling Up Testing for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection Among Contacts of Index Patients - 20 Countries, 2016-2018. MMWR. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2019; 68:474-477. [PMID: 31145718 PMCID: PMC6542477 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6821a2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
In 2017, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) estimated that worldwide, 36.9 million persons were living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the virus infection that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Among persons with HIV infection, approximately 75% were aware of their HIV status, leaving 9.4 million persons with undiagnosed infection (1). Index testing, also known as partner notification or contact tracing, is an effective case-finding strategy that targets the exposed contacts of HIV-positive persons for HIV testing services. This report summarizes data from HIV tests using index testing in 20 countries supported by CDC through the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) during October 1, 2016-March 31, 2018. During this 18-month period, 1,700,998 HIV tests with 99,201 (5.8%) positive results were reported using index testing. The positivity rate for index testing was 9.8% among persons aged ≥15 years and 1.5% among persons aged <15 years. During the reporting period, HIV positivity increased 64% among persons aged ≥15 years (from 7.6% to 12.5%) and 67% among persons aged <15 years (from 1.2% to 2.0%). Expanding index testing services could help increase the number of persons with HIV infection who know their status, are initiated onto antiretroviral treatment, and consequently reduce the number of persons who can transmit the virus.
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De Cock KM, Barker JL, Baggaley R, El Sadr WM. Where are the positives? HIV testing in sub-Saharan Africa in the era of test and treat. AIDS 2019; 33:349-352. [PMID: 30557162 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Cherutich P, Farquhar C, Wamuti B, Otieno FA, Ng'ang'a A, Mutiti PM, Macharia P, Sambai B, Bukusi D, Levin C. HIV partner services in Kenya: a cost and budget impact analysis study. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:721. [PMID: 30223833 PMCID: PMC6142360 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3530-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The elicitation of contact information, notification and testing of sex partners of HIV infected patients (aPS), is an effective HIV testing strategy in low-income settings but may not necessarily be affordable. We applied WHO guidelines and the International Society for Pharmaco-economics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) guidelines to conduct cost and budget impact analyses, respectively, of aPS compared to current practice of HIV testing services (HTS) in Kisumu County, Kenya. METHODS Using study data and time motion studies, we constructed an Excel-based tool to estimate costs and the budget impact of aPS. Cost data were collected from selected facilities in Kisumu County. We report the annual total and unit costs of HTS, incremental total and unit costs for aPS, and the budget impact of scaling up aPS over a 5-year horizon. We also considered a task-shifted scenario that used community health workers (CHWs) rather than facility based health workers and conducted sensitivity analyses assuming different rates of scale up of aPS. RESULTS The average unit costs for HIV testing among HIV-infected index clients was US$ 25.36 per client and US$ 17.86 per client using nurses and CHWs, respectively. The average incremental costs for providing enhanced aPS in Kisumu County were US$ 1,092,161 and US$ 753,547 per year, using nurses and CHWs, respectively. The average incremental cost of scaling up aPS over a five period was 45% higher when using nurses compared to using CHWs (US$ 5,460,837 and US$ 3,767,738 respectively). Over the five years, the upper-bound budget impact of nurse-model was US$ 1,767,863, 63% and 35% of which were accounted for by aPS costs and ART costs, respectively. The CHW model incurred an upper-bound incremental cost of US$ 1,258,854, which was 71.2% lower than the nurse-based model. The budget impact was sensitive to the level of aPS coverage and ranged from US$ 28,547 for 30% coverage using CHWs in 2014 to US$ 1,267,603 for 80% coverage using nurses in 2018. CONCLUSION Scaling aPS using nurses has minimal budget impact but not cost-saving over a five-year period. Targeting aPS to newly-diagnosed index cases and task-shifting to community health workers is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Cherutich
- Ministry of Health, Afya House, Cathedral Road, P.O Box 30016-00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Research and Training, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Felix A Otieno
- Department of Research and Training, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ann Ng'ang'a
- Ministry of Health, Afya House, Cathedral Road, P.O Box 30016-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter Maingi Mutiti
- Department of Research and Training, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Paul Macharia
- Ministry of Health, Afya House, Cathedral Road, P.O Box 30016-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Betsy Sambai
- Department of Research and Training, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Bukusi
- Department of Research and Training, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Carol Levin
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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