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Bayisa L, Bayisa D, Turi E, Mulisa D, Tolossa T, Akuma AO, Bokora MC, Rundasa DT. Same-Day ART Initiation and Associated Factors Among People Living with HIV on Lifelong Therapy at Nekemte Specialized Hospital, Western Ethiopia. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2023; 15:11-22. [PMID: 36718213 PMCID: PMC9884049 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s395238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The test-and-treat approach recommends early ART initiation (same day). Early ART start has double the benefits as treatment and as prevention. However, there is limited information regarding same-day ART initiation in Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to assess the magnitude and factors of same-day ART initiation among people living with HIV (PLHIV) on ART at Nekemte specialized hospital, in Western Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 483 PLHIV from January 10 to February 15, 2021. Data were collected using an investigator-administered questionnaire. Epi Data 3.1 and STATA 14.0 were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. Variables with P-value <0.25 from bivariable analysis were included in the multivariable analysis. AOR with 95% CI and P-value <0.05 were used to declare statistical significance. Results A total of 483 study subjects participated and gave a 100% response rate. Two thirds (65%) of them started ART on the same day with a 95% CI [60.2-68.8]. Urban dwellers (AOR = 3.93 (95% 1.96-7.87)), with no OIs (AOR = 4.02 (95% CI: 1.54-10.47)), not screened for TB (AOR = 6.02 (95% CI: 1.71-21.15)), tested via VCT (AOR = 2.32 (95% CI: 1.37-3.26)), who have not used CPT (AOR = 1.88 (95% CI: 1.10-3.23)), who have not used IPT (AOR = 2.36 (95% CI: 1.0-5.57)), who were tested in 2019/20 (AOR = 2.37 (95% CI: 1.08-5.518)), and with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (AOR = 2.18 (95% CI: 1.05-4.52)) were significantly associated with same-day ART initiation. Conclusion Two thirds of study subjects initiated ART on the same day as HIV diagnosis. Voluntary testing and immediate referral to HIV care, advocating test-and-treat, and intensive counseling should be strengthened and reinforced for newly diagnosed HIV-positive people. Given that, high attention should be paid to individuals from urban residence, not screened for TB, who have not used CPT and IPT prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lami Bayisa
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia,Correspondence: Lami Bayisa, Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wollega University, P.O.Box: 395, Nekemte, Ethiopia, Tel +251 924318135, Email
| | - Diriba Bayisa
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Ebisa Turi
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Diriba Mulisa
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Tolossa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Adugna Olani Akuma
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Merga Chala Bokora
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Dawit Tesfaye Rundasa
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
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Chang LW, Mbabali I, Hutton H, Amico KR, Kong X, Mulamba J, Anok A, Ssekasanvu J, Long A, Thomas AG, Thomas K, Bugos E, Pollard R, van Wickle K, Kennedy CE, Nalugoda F, Serwadda D, Bollinger RC, Quinn TC, Reynolds SJ, Gray RH, Wawer MJ, Nakigozi G. Novel community health worker strategy for HIV service engagement in a hyperendemic community in Rakai, Uganda: A pragmatic, cluster-randomized trial. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003475. [PMID: 33406130 PMCID: PMC7787382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective implementation strategies are needed to increase engagement in HIV services in hyperendemic settings. We conducted a pragmatic cluster-randomized trial in a high-risk, highly mobile fishing community (HIV prevalence: approximately 38%) in Rakai, Uganda, to assess the impact of a community health worker-delivered, theory-based (situated Information, Motivation, and Behavior Skills), motivational interviewing-informed, and mobile phone application-supported counseling strategy called "Health Scouts" to promote engagement in HIV treatment and prevention services. METHODS AND FINDINGS The study community was divided into 40 contiguous, randomly allocated clusters (20 intervention clusters, n = 1,054 participants at baseline; 20 control clusters, n = 1,094 participants at baseline). From September 2015 to December 2018, the Health Scouts were deployed in intervention clusters. Community-wide, cross-sectional surveys of consenting 15 to 49-year-old residents were conducted at approximately 15 months (mid-study) and at approximately 39 months (end-study) assessing the primary programmatic outcomes of self-reported linkage to HIV care, antiretroviral therapy (ART) use, and male circumcision, and the primary biologic outcome of HIV viral suppression (<400 copies/mL). Secondary outcomes included HIV testing coverage, HIV incidence, and consistent condom use. The primary intent-to-treat analysis used log-linear binomial regression with generalized estimating equation to estimate prevalence risk ratios (PRR) in the intervention versus control arm. A total of 2,533 (45% female, mean age: 31 years) and 1,903 (46% female; mean age 32 years) residents completed the mid-study and end-study surveys, respectively. At mid-study, there were no differences in outcomes between arms. At end-study, self-reported receipt of the Health Scouts intervention was 38% in the intervention arm and 23% in the control arm, suggesting moderate intervention uptake in the intervention arm and substantial contamination in the control arm. At end-study, intention-to-treat analysis found higher HIV care coverage (PRR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.10, p = 0.011) and ART coverage (PRR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.10, p = 0.028) among HIV-positive participants in the intervention compared with the control arm. Male circumcision coverage among all men (PRR: 1.05, 95% CI: 0.96 to 1.14, p = 0.31) and HIV viral suppression among HIV-positive participants (PRR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.98 to 1.12, p = 0.20) were higher in the intervention arm, but differences were not statistically significant. No differences were seen in secondary outcomes. Study limitations include reliance on self-report for programmatic outcomes and substantial contamination which may have diluted estimates of effect. CONCLUSIONS A novel community health worker intervention improved HIV care and ART coverage in an HIV hyperendemic setting but did not clearly improve male circumcision coverage or HIV viral suppression. This community-based, implementation strategy may be a useful component in some settings for HIV epidemic control. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02556957.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry W. Chang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Heidi Hutton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - K. Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Xiangrong Kong
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Aggrey Anok
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
| | | | - Amanda Long
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Alvin G. Thomas
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kristin Thomas
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Eva Bugos
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Rose Pollard
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kimiko van Wickle
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Caitlin E. Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
| | | | | | - Robert C. Bollinger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Thomas C. Quinn
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Steven J. Reynolds
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ronald H. Gray
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
| | - Maria J. Wawer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
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Lain MG, Chicumbe S, de Araujo AR, Karajeanes E, Couto A, Giaquinto C, Vaz P. Correlates of loss to follow-up and missed diagnosis among HIV-exposed infants throughout the breastfeeding period in southern Mozambique. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237993. [PMID: 32822388 PMCID: PMC7444585 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Complete follow-up of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-exposed infants (HEI) is crucial for a successful prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission. This study analyzed the HEI follow-up and factors associated with loss to follow-up (LTFU) in southern Mozambique. Methods This retrospective cohort study used the data of HEI enrolled between June 2017 and June 2018, followed-up for 18 months. The outcomes were the proportion of infants with completed follow-up and a definitive diagnosis, and the presence of clinical events. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to calculate the cumulative probability of LTFU and of clinical events. Factors associated with LTFU and clinical events were analyzed using Cox regression to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and adjusted HR (AHR), with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a significance cutoff of p<0.05. Results 1413 infants were enrolled (49% males) at a median age of 32 days (IQR 31–41); the median follow-up time was 12 months (IQR 8.2–14.2); 1129 (80%) completed follow-up and had a definitive diagnosis, 58 (4%) were HIV-positive, 225 (16%) were LTFU; 266 (19%) presented a clinical event. Factors associated with LTFU were: age >2 months at entry (AHR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.12–2.23), non-exclusive breastfeeding (AHR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.01–2.06), poor cotrimoxazole adherence (AHR, 3.42; 95% CI, 1.59–7.35), and clinical events (AHR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.34–0.77). Factors associated with clinical events were: malnutrition (AHR, 10.06; 95% CI, 5.92–17.09), non-exclusive breastfeeding (AHR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.34–2.93), no nevirapine prophylaxis (AHR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.18–2.36), and poor cotrimoxazole adherence (AHR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.10–6.22). Conclusion The high rate of HEI LTFU, associated with delayed linkage to postnatal care, poor prophylaxis adherence, non-exclusive breastfeeding, indicates the need to design a differentiated service delivery model that is tailored to the mothers’ and infants’ specific needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Lain
- Fundação Ariel Glaser contra o SIDA Pediátrico, Maputo, Mozambique
- * E-mail:
| | - Sergio Chicumbe
- Health System Program, Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | | | - Aleny Couto
- HIV Program, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Carlo Giaquinto
- Department for Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Paula Vaz
- Fundação Ariel Glaser contra o SIDA Pediátrico, Maputo, Mozambique
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Chang LW, Mbabali I, Kong X, Hutton H, Amico KR, Kennedy CE, Nalugoda F, Serwadda D, Bollinger RC, Quinn TC, Reynolds SJ, Gray R, Wawer M, Nakigozi G. Impact of a community health worker HIV treatment and prevention intervention in an HIV hotspot fishing community in Rakai, Uganda (mLAKE): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2017; 18:494. [PMID: 29061194 PMCID: PMC5654192 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-017-2243-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Effective yet practical strategies are needed to increase engagement in HIV treatment and prevention services, particularly in high-HIV-prevalence hotspots. We designed a community-based intervention called “Health Scouts” to promote uptake and adherence to HIV services in a highly HIV-prevalent fishing community in Rakai, Uganda. Using a situated Information, Motivation, and Behavioral skills theory framework, the intervention consists of community health workers, called Health Scouts, who use motivational interviewing strategies and mobile health tools to promote engagement in HIV treatment and prevention services. Methods/design The Health Scout intervention is being evaluated through a pragmatic, parallel, cluster-randomized controlled trial with an allocation ratio of 1:1. The study setting is a single high-HIV-prevalence fishing community in Rakai, Uganda divided into 40 contiguous neighborhood clusters each containing about 65 households. Twenty clusters received the Health Scout Intervention; 20 clusters received standard of care. The Health Scout intervention is delivered within the community at the household level, targeting all residents aged 15 years or older. The primary programmatic outcomes are self-reported HIV care, antiretroviral therapy, and male circumcision coverage; the primary biologic outcome is population-level HIV viremia prevalence. Follow-up is planned for about 3 years. Discussion HIV treatment and prevention service engagement remains suboptimal in HIV hotspots. New, community-based implementation approaches are needed. If found to be effective in this trial, the Health Scout intervention may be an important component of a comprehensive HIV response. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT02556957. Registered on 20 September 2015. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-017-2243-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry W Chang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda.
| | | | - Xiangrong Kong
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
| | - Heidi Hutton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - K Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Caitlin E Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
| | | | | | - Robert C Bollinger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thomas C Quinn
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Laboratory of Immunoregulation, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Steven J Reynolds
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda.,Laboratory of Immunoregulation, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ronald Gray
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
| | - Maria Wawer
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Rakai Health Sciences Program, Rakai, Uganda
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Hickey MD, Odeny TA, Petersen M, Neilands TB, Padian N, Ford N, Matthay Z, Hoos D, Doherty M, Beryer C, Baral S, Geng EH. Specification of implementation interventions to address the cascade of HIV care and treatment in resource-limited settings: a systematic review. Implement Sci 2017; 12:102. [PMID: 28784155 PMCID: PMC5547499 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-017-0630-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The global response to HIV has started over 18 million persons on life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART)—the vast majority in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC)—yet substantial gaps remain: up to 40% of persons living with HIV (PLHIV) know their status, while another 30% of those who enter care are inadequately retained after starting treatment. Identifying strategies to enhance use of treatment is urgently needed, but the conceptualization and specification of implementation interventions is not always complete. We sought to assess the completeness of intervention reporting in research to advance uptake of treatment for HIV globally. Methods We carried out a systematic review to identify interventions targeting the adult HIV care cascade in LMIC dating from 1990 to 2017. We identified components of each intervention as “intervention types” to decompose interventions into common components. We grouped “intervention types” into a smaller number of more general “implementation approaches” to aid summarization. We assessed the reporting of six intervention characteristics adapted from the implementation science literature: the actor, action, action dose, action temporality, action target, and behavioral target in each study. Findings In 157 unique studies, we identified 34 intervention “types,” which were empirically grouped into six generally understandable “approaches.” Overall, 42% of interventions defined the actor, 64% reported the action, 41% specified the intervention “dose,” 43% reported action temporality, 61% defined the action target, and 69% reported a target behavior. Average completeness of reporting varied across approaches from a low of 50% to a high of 72%. Dimensions that involved conceptualization of the practices themselves (e.g., actor, dose, temporality) were in general less well specified than consequences (e.g., action target and behavioral target). Implications The conceptualization and Reporting of implementation interventions to advance treatment for HIV in LMIC is not always complete. Dissemination of standards for reporting intervention characteristics can potentially promote transparency, reproducibility, and scientific accumulation in the area of implementation science to address HIV in low- and middle-income countries. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13012-017-0630-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Hickey
- Division of General Internal Medicine, San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Maya Petersen
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nancy Padian
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Nathan Ford
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - David Hoos
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Meg Doherty
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chris Beryer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stefan Baral
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elvin H Geng
- Division of ID HIV and Global Medicine, San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Medicine, UCSF, Building 80, 6th Floor, 1001 Potrero Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA.
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Keane J, Pharr JR, Buttner MP, Ezeanolue EE. Interventions to Reduce Loss to Follow-up During All Stages of the HIV Care Continuum in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:1745-1754. [PMID: 27578001 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1532-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The continuum of care for successful HIV treatment includes HIV testing, linkage, engagement in care, and retention on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Loss to follow-up (LTFU) is a significant disruption to this pathway and a common outcome in sub-Saharan Africa. This review of literature identified interventions that have reduced LTFU in the HIV care continuum. A search was conducted utilizing terms that combined the disease state, stages of the HIV care continuum, interventions, and LTFU in sub-Saharan Africa and articles published between January 2010 and July 2015. Thirteen articles were included in the final review. Use of point of care CD4 testing and community-supported programs improved linkage, engagement, and retention in care. There are few interventions directed at LTFU and none that span across the entire continuum of HIV care. Further research could focus on devising programs that include a series of interventions that will be effective through the entire continuum.
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Pediatric Access and Continuity of HIV Care Before the Start of Antiretroviral Therapy in Sub-Saharan Africa. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2016; 35:981-6. [PMID: 27187757 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000001213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of HIV-infected children starting antiretroviral treatment (ART) has increased in resource-limited settings during the past decades. However, there are still few published data on the characteristics of pediatric patients at program enrolment and on the dynamics of dropping out before the start of ART. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study among HIV-infected pediatric patients (age, 5-14 years) not yet started on ART enrolled in 4 HIV sub-Saharan African programs. Descriptive and risk factors for mortality and lost to follow-up (LFU) were investigated using adjusted parametric or Cox proportional hazard models. RESULTS A total of 2244 patients (52.8% girls) were enrolled in HIV care, a median of 2 days [interquartile range (IQR), 0-8 days] after HIV diagnosis. Baseline median CD4 cell count was 409 cells/μL (IQR, 203-478 cells/μL); 43% were in clinical stage 3 or 4, 71% required ART and 76.2% of these patients initiated therapy. Of those eligible not started on ART, 14% died and 59% were LFU. Median pre-ART follow-up was 4.4 months (IQR, 1.3-20 months) and was shorter for eligible patients. Mortality rates were 6.2 of 100 person-years [95% confidence interval (CI), 4.6-8.3] in the 0- to 6-month period and 1.3 of 100 person-years (95% CI, 0.9-2.0) in the 6- to 60-month period. LFU rates were 37.4 of 100 (95% CI, 33.0-42.4) and 8.3 of 100 person-years (95% CI, 7.1-9.8), respectively. Advanced HIV disease at presentation (low body mass index, stage 3 or 4, low CD4 count or tuberculosis diagnosis) was associated with increased mortality and LFU. CONCLUSIONS Late presentation and delays in initiating ART among eligible children were responsible for the large incidence of patient losses during pre-ART follow-up in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Factors associated with initiation of antiretroviral therapy in the advanced stages of HIV infection in six Ethiopian HIV clinics, 2012 to 2013. J Int AIDS Soc 2016; 19:20637. [PMID: 27113335 PMCID: PMC4845592 DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.1.20637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Most HIV-positive persons in sub-Saharan Africa initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) with advanced infection (late ART initiation). Intervening on the drivers of late ART initiation is a critical step towards achieving the full potential of HIV treatment scale-up. This study aimed to identify modifiable factors associated with late ART initiation in Ethiopia. Methods From 2012 to 2013, Ethiopian adults (n=1180) were interviewed within two weeks of ART initiation. Interview data were merged with HIV care histories to assess correlates of late ART initiation (CD4+ count <150 cells/µL or World Health Organization Stage IV). Results The median CD4 count at enrolment in HIV care was 263 cells/µL (interquartile range (IQR): 140 to 390) and 212 cells/µL (IQR: 119 to 288) at ART initiation. Overall, 31.2% of participants initiated ART late, of whom 85.1% already had advanced HIV disease at enrolment. Factors associated with higher odds of late ART initiation included male sex (vs. non-pregnant females; adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.02; 95% CI: 1.50 to 2.73), high levels of psychological distress (vs. low/none, aOR: 1.96; 95% CI: 1.34 to 2.87), perceived communication barriers with providers (aOR: 2.42, 95% CI: 1.24 to 4.75), diagnosis via provider initiated testing (vs. voluntary counselling and testing, aOR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.07 to 2.04), tuberculosis (TB) treatment prior to ART initiation (aOR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.43 to 3.25) and a gap in care of six months or more prior to ART initiation (aOR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.10 to 3.72). Testing because of partner illness/death (aOR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.42 to 0.95) was associated with lower odds of late ART initiation. Conclusions Programmatic initiatives promoting earlier diagnosis, engagement in pre-ART care, and integration of TB and HIV treatments may facilitate earlier ART initiation. Men and those experiencing psychological distress may also benefit from targeted support prior to ART initiation.
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Labhardt ND, Ringera I, Lejone TI, Masethothi P, Thaanyane T, Kamele M, Gupta RS, Thin K, Cerutti B, Klimkait T, Fritz C, Glass TR. Same day ART initiation versus clinic-based pre-ART assessment and counselling for individuals newly tested HIV-positive during community-based HIV testing in rural Lesotho - a randomized controlled trial (CASCADE trial). BMC Public Health 2016; 16:329. [PMID: 27080120 PMCID: PMC4832467 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-2972-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achievement of the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets in Sub-Sahara Africa is challenged by a weak care-cascade with poor linkage to care and retention in care. Community-based HIV testing and counselling (HTC) is widely used in African countries. However, rates of linkage to care and initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in individuals who tested HIV-positive are often very low. A frequently cited reason for non-linkage to care is the time-consuming pre-ART assessment often requiring several clinic visits before ART-initiation. METHODS This two-armed open-label randomized controlled trial compares in individuals tested HIV-positive during community-based HTC the proposition of same-day community-based ART-initiation to the standard of care pre-ART assessment at the clinic. Home-based HTC campaigns will be conducted in catchment areas of six clinics in rural Lesotho. Households where at least one individual tested HIV positive will be randomized. In the standard of care group individuals receive post-test counselling and referral to the nearest clinic for pre-ART assessment and counselling. Once they have started ART the follow-up schedule foresees monthly clinic visits. Individuals randomized to the intervention group receive on the spot point-of-care pre-ART assessment and adherence counselling with the proposition to start ART that same day. Once they have started ART, follow-up clinic visits will be less frequent. First primary outcome is linkage to care (individual presents at the clinic at least once within 3 months after the HIV test). The second primary outcome is viral suppression 12 months after enrolment in the study. We plan to enrol a minimum of 260 households with 1:1 allocation and parallel assignment into both arms. DISCUSSION This trial will show if in individuals tested HIV-positive during community-based HTC campaigns the proposition of same-day ART initiation in the community, combined with less frequent follow-up visits at the clinic could be a pragmatic approach to improve the care cascade in similar settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02692027 , registered February 21, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklaus Daniel Labhardt
- />Clinical Research Unit, Medical Services and Diagnostics, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
- />University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Isaac Ringera
- />SolidarMed, Swiss Organization for Health in Africa, Premium House #224, Kingsway, P.O.Box 0254, Maseru West, 105 Lesotho
| | - Thabo Ishmael Lejone
- />SolidarMed, Swiss Organization for Health in Africa, Premium House #224, Kingsway, P.O.Box 0254, Maseru West, 105 Lesotho
| | - Phofu Masethothi
- />SolidarMed, Swiss Organization for Health in Africa, Premium House #224, Kingsway, P.O.Box 0254, Maseru West, 105 Lesotho
| | - T’sepang Thaanyane
- />SolidarMed, Swiss Organization for Health in Africa, Premium House #224, Kingsway, P.O.Box 0254, Maseru West, 105 Lesotho
| | - Mashaete Kamele
- />SolidarMed, Swiss Organization for Health in Africa, Premium House #224, Kingsway, P.O.Box 0254, Maseru West, 105 Lesotho
| | - Ravi Shankar Gupta
- />District Health Management Team Butha-Buthe, Ministry of Health of Lesotho, Butha-Buthe, Lesotho
| | - Kyaw Thin
- />Research Coordination Unit, Room Number 326, Ministry of Health of Lesotho, Maseru, Lesotho
| | - Bernard Cerutti
- />Faculty of Medicine, UDREM, University of Geneva, 1 Rue Michel Servet, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Klimkait
- />Department of Biomedicine – Petersplatz, Molecular Virology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christiane Fritz
- />SolidarMed, Swiss Organization for Health in Africa, Premium House #224, Kingsway, P.O.Box 0254, Maseru West, 105 Lesotho
| | - Tracy Renée Glass
- />Clinical Research Unit, Medical Services and Diagnostics, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
- />University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- />Biostatistics Department, Epidemiology and Public Health Unit, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, P.O. Box 4002, Basel, Switzerland
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10
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Koenig SP, Bernard D, Dévieux JG, Atwood S, McNairy ML, Severe P, Marcelin A, Julma P, Apollon A, Pape JW. Trends in CD4 Count Testing, Retention in Pre-ART Care, and ART Initiation Rates over the First Decade of Expansion of HIV Services in Haiti. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0146903. [PMID: 26901795 PMCID: PMC4763018 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0146903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background High attrition during the period from HIV testing to antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation is widely reported. Though treatment guidelines have changed to broaden ART eligibility and services have been widely expanded over the past decade, data on the temporal trends in pre-ART outcomes are limited; such data would be useful to guide future policy decisions. Methods We evaluated temporal trends and predictors of retention for each step from HIV testing to ART initiation over the past decade at the GHESKIO clinic in Port-au-Prince Haiti. The 24,925 patients >17 years of age who received a positive HIV test at GHESKIO from March 1, 2003 to February 28, 2013 were included. Patients were followed until they remained in pre-ART care for one year or initiated ART. Results 24,925 patients (61% female, median age 35 years) were included, and 15,008 (60%) had blood drawn for CD4 count within 12 months of HIV testing; the trend increased over time from 36% in Year 1 to 78% in Year 10 (p<0.0001). Excluding transfers, the proportion of patients who were retained in pre-ART care or initiated ART within the first year after HIV testing was 84%, 82%, 64%, and 64%, for CD4 count strata ≤200, 201 to 350, 351 to 500, and >500 cells/mm3, respectively. The trend increased over time for each CD4 strata, and in Year 10, 94%, 95%, 79%, and 74% were retained in pre-ART care or initiated ART for each CD4 strata. Predictors of pre-ART attrition included male gender, low income, and low educational status. Older age and tuberculosis (TB) at HIV testing were associated with retention in care. Conclusions The proportion of patients completing assessments for ART eligibility, remaining in pre-ART care, and initiating ART have increased over the last decade across all CD4 count strata, particularly among patients with CD4 count ≤350 cells/mm3. However, additional retention efforts are needed for patients with higher CD4 counts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena P. Koenig
- Haitian Study Group for Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Daphne Bernard
- Haitian Study Group for Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Jessy G. Dévieux
- AIDS Prevention Program, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - Sidney Atwood
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Margaret L. McNairy
- Center for Global Health, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Patrice Severe
- Haitian Study Group for Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Adias Marcelin
- Haitian Study Group for Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Pierrot Julma
- Haitian Study Group for Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Alexandra Apollon
- Haitian Study Group for Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Jean W. Pape
- Haitian Study Group for Kaposi’s Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
- Center for Global Health, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States of America
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Kessler J, Nucifora K, Li L, Uhler L, Braithwaite S. Impact and Cost-Effectiveness of Hypothetical Strategies to Enhance Retention in Care within HIV Treatment Programs in East Africa. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2015; 18:946-955. [PMID: 26686778 PMCID: PMC4696404 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2015.09.2940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Attrition from care among HIV infected patients can lead to poor clinical outcomes. Our objective was to evaluate hypothetical interventions seeking to improve retention-in-care (RIC) for HIV-infected patients in East Africa, asking whether they could offer favorable value compared to earlier ART initiation. METHODS We used a micro-simulation model to analyze two RIC focused strategies within an East African HIV treatment program--"risk reduction," defined as intervention(s) that decrease the risk of attrition from care; and "outreach," defined as interventions that find patients and relink them with care. We compared this to earlier ART treatment as a measure of the potential health benefits forgone (e.g., opportunity cost). RESULTS Reducing attrition by 40% at an average cost of $10 per person remains a less efficient use of resources compared to ensuring full access to ART (cost- effectiveness ratio $1300 vs $3700) for ART eligible patients. An outreach intervention had limited clinical benefit in our simulation. If intervention costs are <$10 per person, however, an intervention able to achieve a 40% (or greater) reduction in attrition may be a cost-effective next implementation option following implementation of earlier ART treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that programs should consider retention focused programs once they have already achieved high degrees of ART coverage among eligible patients. It is important that decision makers understand the epidemiology and associated outcomes of those patients who are classified as lost to follow up in their systems prior to implementation in order to achieve the highest value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Kessler
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Kimberly Nucifora
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lingfeng Li
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren Uhler
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott Braithwaite
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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12
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Effectiveness of peer support on care engagement and preventive care intervention utilization among pre-antiretroviral therapy, HIV-infected adults in Rakai, Uganda: a randomized trial. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:1742-51. [PMID: 26271815 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1159-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
442 pre-ART, HIV-infected adults were randomized to peer support consisting of structured home visits to promote clinic attendance and preventive care intervention use or standard of care. At baseline, 62 % reported previously visiting an HIV clinic, 45 % reported taking cotrimoxazole prophylaxis, and 31 % were "care-naïve" (no previous clinic visit and not on cotrimoxazole). After 1 year, intervention participants were more likely to report being in care (92 vs 84 %; PRR 1.09, p = 0.039), on cotrimoxazole (89 vs 81 %; PRR 1.10, p = 0.047), and safe water vessel adherence (23 vs 14 %; PRR 1.64, p = 0.024). The effect was observed only among care-naïve participants (n = 139) with 83 % intervention versus 56 % controls reporting being in HIV care (PRR 1.47, p = 0.006), 78 versus 58 % on cotrimoxazole (PRR 1.35, p = 0.04), and 20 versus 4 % safe water vessel adherence (PRR 5.78, p = 0.017). Peer support may be an effective intervention to facilitate pre-ART care compliance in this important population.
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13
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Ahonkhai AA, Banigbe B, Adeola J, Onwuatuelo I, Bassett IV, Losina E, Freedberg KA, Okonkwo P, Regan S. High rates of unplanned interruptions from HIV care early after antiretroviral therapy initiation in Nigeria. BMC Infect Dis 2015; 15:397. [PMID: 26424505 PMCID: PMC4589963 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-015-1137-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Unplanned care interruption (UCI) challenges effective HIV treatment. We determined the frequency and risk factors for UCI in Nigeria. Methods We conducted a retrospective-cohort study of adults initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) between January 2009 and December 2011. At censor, patients were defined as in care, UCI, or inactive. Associations between baseline factors and UCI rates were quantified using Poisson regression. Results Among 2,496 patients, 44 % remained in care, 35 % had ≥1 UCI, and 21 % became inactive. UCI rates were higher in the first year on ART (39/100PY), than the second (19/100PY), third (16/100PY), and fourth (14/100PY) years (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, baseline CD4 > 350/uL (IRR 3.21, p < 0.0001), being a student (IRR 1.95, p < 0.0001), and less education (IRR 1.58, p = 0.001) increased risk for UCI. Fifty-five percent of patients with UCI and viral load data had HIV viral load > 1,000 copies/ml upon return to care. Discussion UCI were observed in over one-third of patients treated, and were most common in the first year on ART. High baseline CD4 count at ART initiation was the greatest predictor of subsequent UCI. Conclusions Interventions focused on the first year on ART are needed to improve continuity of HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimalohi A Ahonkhai
- Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, 50 Staniford Street, 9th Floor, Boston, MA, USA. .,Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Bolanle Banigbe
- AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria (APIN), Abuja, Nigeria.
| | - Juliet Adeola
- AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria (APIN), Abuja, Nigeria.
| | | | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, 50 Staniford Street, 9th Floor, Boston, MA, USA. .,Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Division of General Internal Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Elena Losina
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Departments of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Kenneth A Freedberg
- Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, 50 Staniford Street, 9th Floor, Boston, MA, USA. .,Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Division of General Internal Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, MA, USA. .,Departments of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Prosper Okonkwo
- AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria (APIN), Abuja, Nigeria.
| | - Susan Regan
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Division of General Internal Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, MA, USA.
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Smillie K, Van Borek N, van der Kop ML, Lukhwaro A, Li N, Karanja S, Patel AR, Ojakaa D, Lester RT. Mobile health for early retention in HIV care: a qualitative study in Kenya (WelTel Retain). AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2015; 13:331-8. [PMID: 25555099 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2014.961939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Many people newly diagnosed with HIV are lost to follow-up before timely initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART). A randomised controlled trial (RCT), WelTel Kenya1, demonstrated the effectiveness of the WelTel text messaging intervention to improve clinical outcomes among patients initiating ART. In preparation for WelTel Retain, an RCT that will evaluate the effect of the intervention to retain patients in care immediately following HIV diagnosis, we conducted an informative qualitative study with people living with HIV (n = 15) and healthcare providers (HCP) (n = 5) in October 2012. Study objectives included exploring the experiences of people living with HIV who have attempted to engage in HIV care, the use of cell phones in everyday life, and perceptions of communicating via text message with HCP. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling. Semi-structured, qualitative interviews were conducted and recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using NVivo software. Analysis was guided by the Theory of Reasoned Action and the Technology Acceptance Model. Results indicate that while individuals have many motivators for engaging in care after diagnosis, structural and individual barriers including poverty, depression and fear of stigma prevent them from doing so. All participants had access to a mobile phone, and most were comfortable communicating through text messages, or were willing to learn. Both people living with HIV and HCP felt that increased communication via the text messaging intervention has the potential to enable early identification of problems, leading to timely problem solving that may improve retention and engagement in care during the first year after diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Smillie
- a British Columbia Centre for Disease Control , 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada , V5Z 4R4
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15
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Okeke NL, Ostermann J, Thielman NM. Enhancing linkage and retention in HIV care: a review of interventions for highly resourced and resource-poor settings. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2015; 11:376-92. [PMID: 25323298 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-014-0233-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Given the widespread availability of effective antiretroviral therapy, engagement of HIV-infected persons in care is a global priority. We reviewed 51 studies, published in the past decade, assessing strategies for improving linkage to and retention in HIV care. The review included studies from highly resourced settings (HRS) and resource-poor settings (RPS), specifically the USA and sub-Saharan Africa. In HRS, strength-based case management was best supported for improving linkage and retention in care; peer navigation and clinic-based health promotion were supported for improving retention. In RPS, point of care CD4 testing was best supported for improving linkage to care; decentralization, and task-shifting for improving retention. Novel interventions continue to emerge in HRS and RPS, yet many strategies have not been adequately evaluated. Further consideration should be given to analyses that identify which interventions, or combinations of interventions, are most effective, cost-effective, scalable, and aligned with patient preferences for HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Lance Okeke
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,
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16
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Plazy M, Orne-Gliemann J, Dabis F, Dray-Spira R. Retention in care prior to antiretroviral treatment eligibility in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review of the literature. BMJ Open 2015; 5:e006927. [PMID: 26109110 PMCID: PMC4479994 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-006927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed at summarising rates and factors associated with retention in HIV care prior to antiretroviral treatment (ART) eligibility in sub-Saharan Africa. DESIGN We conducted a systematic literature review (2002-2014). We searched Medline/Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science, as well as proceedings of conferences. We included all original research studies published in peer-reviewed journals, which used quantitative indicators of retention in care prior to ART eligibility. PARTICIPANTS People not yet eligible for ART. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES Rate of retention in HIV care prior to ART eligibility and associated factors. RESULTS 10 papers and 2 abstracts were included. Most studies were conducted in Southern and Eastern Africa between 2004 and 2011 and reported retention rates in pre-ART care up to the second CD4 measurement. Definition of retention in HIV care prior to ART eligibility differed substantially across studies. Retention rates ranged between 23% and 88% based on series ranging from 112 to 10,314 individuals; retention was higher in women, individuals aged >25 years, those with low CD4 count, high body mass index or co-infected with tuberculosis, and in settings with free cotrimoxazole use. CONCLUSIONS Retention in HIV care prior to ART eligibility in sub-Saharan Africa has been insufficiently described so far leaving major research gaps, especially regarding long-term retention rates and sociodemographic, economic, clinical and programmatic logistic determinants. The prospective follow-up of newly diagnosed individuals is required to better evaluate attrition prior to ART eligibility among HIV-infected people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Plazy
- Centre de recherche Inserm U897 Epidémiologie et Biostatistique, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Institut de Santé Publique, d'Epidémiologie et de Développement (ISPED), Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Joanna Orne-Gliemann
- Centre de recherche Inserm U897 Epidémiologie et Biostatistique, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Institut de Santé Publique, d'Epidémiologie et de Développement (ISPED), Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - François Dabis
- Centre de recherche Inserm U897 Epidémiologie et Biostatistique, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Institut de Santé Publique, d'Epidémiologie et de Développement (ISPED), Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Rosemary Dray-Spira
- Department of Social Epidemiology, INSERM, UMR_S 1136, Pierre Louis Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health, Paris, France
- Department of Social Epidemiology, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR_S 1136, Pierre Louis Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health, Paris, France
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Shaweno T, Shaweno D. When are patients lost to follow-up in pre-antiretroviral therapy care? a retrospective assessment of patients in an Ethiopian rural hospital. Infect Dis Poverty 2015; 4:27. [PMID: 26034602 PMCID: PMC4450642 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-015-0056-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is concern about the increasing rates of loss to follow-up (LTFU) among pre-antiretroviral therapy (pre-ART) patients in Ethiopia. Little information is available regarding the time when pre-ART patients are lost to follow-up in the country. This study assessed the time when LTFU occurs as well as the associated factors among adults enrolled in pre-ART care in an Ethiopian rural hospital. Methods Data of all adult pre-ART patients enrolled at the Sheka Zonal Hospital between 2010 and 2013 were reviewed. Patients were considered lost to follow-up if they failed to keep scheduled appointments for more than 90 days. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess factors associated with time until LTFU. The Kaplan-Meier survival table was used to compare the LTFU experiences of patients, segregated by significant predictors. Results A total of 626 pre-ART patients were followed for 319.92 person-years of observation (PYOs) from enrolment to pre-ART outcomes, with an overall LTFU rate of 55.8 per 100 PYOs. A total of 178 (28.4%) pre-ART patients were lost to follow-up, 93% of which occurred within the first six months. The median follow-up time was 6.13 months. The independent predictors included: not having been started on co-trimoxazole prophylaxis (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] = 1.77, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12–2.79), a baseline CD4 count of or above 350 cells/mm3 (AHR = 1.87, 95%CI, 1.02–3.45), and an undisclosed HIV status (AHR = 3.04, 95%CI, 2.07–4.45). Conclusion A significant proportion of pre-ART patients is lost to follow-up. Not having been started on co-trimoxazole prophylaxis, presenting to care with a baseline CD4 cell count ≥350 cells/mm3, and an undisclosed HIV status were significant predictors of LTFU among pre-ART patients. Thus, close monitoring and tracking of patients during this period is highly recommended. Those patients with identified risk factors deserve special attention. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40249-015-0056-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamrat Shaweno
- Public Health Emergency Response Epidemiologist, African Union, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Debebe Shaweno
- School of Public and Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
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Assessment of the impact of cotrimoxazole prophylaxis on key outcomes among HIV-infected adults in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 68 Suppl 3:S257-69. [PMID: 25768865 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cotrimoxazole (CTX) prophylaxis is among the key interventions provided to HIV-infected individuals in resource-limited settings. We conducted a systematic review of the available evidence. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, CINAHL, SOCA, and African Index Medicus (AIM) were used to identify articles relevant to the CTX prophylaxis intervention from 1995 to 2014. Included articles addressed impact of CTX prophylaxis on the outcomes of mortality, morbidity, retention in care, quality of life, and/or prevention of ongoing HIV transmission. We rated the quality of evidence in individual articles and assessed the overall quality of the body of evidence, the expected impact, and the cost effectiveness (CE) for each outcome. RESULTS Of the initial 1418 identified articles, 42 met all inclusion criteria. These included 9 randomized controlled trials, 26 observational studies, 2 systematic reviews with meta-analysis, 1 other systematic review, and 4 CE studies. The overall quality of evidence was rated as "good" and the expected impact "high" for both mortality and morbidity. The overall quality of evidence from the 4 studies addressing retention in care was rated as "poor," and the expected impact on retention was rated as "uncertain." The 4 assessed CE studies showed that provision of CTX prophylaxis is cost effective and sometimes cost saving. No studies addressed impact on quality of life or HIV transmission. CONCLUSIONS CTX prophylaxis is a cost-effective intervention with expected high impact on morbidity and mortality reduction in HIV-infected adults in resource-limited settings. Benefits are seen in both pre-antiretroviral therapy and antiretroviral therapy populations.
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The HIV care cascade: models, measures and moving forward. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:19395. [PMID: 25735869 PMCID: PMC4348400 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.1.19395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction This article seeks to identify where delays occur along the adult HIV care cascade (“the cascade”), to improve understanding of what constitutes “delay” at each stage of the cascade and how this can be measured across a range of settings and to inform service delivery efforts. Current metrics are reviewed, measures informed by global guidelines are suggested and areas for further clarification are underscored. Discussion Questions remain on how best to evaluate late entry into each stage of the cascade. The delayed uptake of HIV testing may be more consistently measured once rapid CD4 testing is administered at the time of HIV testing. For late enrolment, preliminary research has begun to determine how different time intervals for linking to HIV care affect individual health. Regarding treatment, since 2013, the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNAIDS recommend treatment initiation when CD4 <500 cells/mm3; these guidelines provide a useful albeit evolving threshold to define late treatment initiation. Finally, WHO guidelines for high-, low- and middle-income countries also could be used to standardize measures for achieving viral suppression. Conclusions There is no “one size fits all” model as the provision of services may differ based on a range of factors. Nonetheless, measures informed by global guidelines are needed to more consistently evaluate the scope of and factors associated with delays to each stage of the cascade. Doing so will help identify how practitioners can best deliver services and facilitate access to and continued engagement in care.
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Church JA, Fitzgerald F, Walker AS, Gibb DM, Prendergast AJ. The expanding role of co-trimoxazole in developing countries. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2015; 15:327-39. [PMID: 25618179 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(14)71011-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Co-trimoxazole is an inexpensive, broad-spectrum antimicrobial drug that is widely used in developing countries. Before antiretroviral therapy (ART) scale-up, co-trimoxazole prophylaxis reduced morbidity and mortality in adults and children with HIV by preventing bacterial infections, diarrhoea, malaria, and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, despite high levels of microbial resistance. Co-trimoxazole prophylaxis reduces early mortality by 58% (95% CI 39-71) in adults starting ART. Co-trimoxazole provides ongoing protection against malaria and non-malaria infections after immune reconstitution in ART-treated individuals in sub-Saharan Africa, leading to a change in WHO guidelines, which now recommend long-term co-trimoxazole prophylaxis for adults and children in settings with a high prevalence of malaria or severe bacterial infections. Co-trimoxazole prophylaxis is recommended for HIV-exposed infants from age 4-6 weeks; however, the risks and benefits of co-trimoxazole during infancy are unclear. Co-trimoxazole prophylaxis reduces anaemia and improves growth in children with HIV, possibly by reducing inflammation, either through direct immunomodulatory activity or through effects on the intestinal microbiota leading to reduced microbial translocation. Ongoing trials are now assessing the ability of adjunctive co-trimoxazole to reduce mortality in children after severe anaemia or severe acute malnutrition. In this Review, we discuss the mechanisms of action, benefits and risks, and clinical trials of co-trimoxazole in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Church
- Centre for Paediatrics, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | - A Sarah Walker
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London, London, UK
| | - Diana M Gibb
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew J Prendergast
- Centre for Paediatrics, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London, London, UK; Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe.
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Carrascosa MF, Mones JC, Salcines-Caviedes JR, Román JG. A man with unsuspected marine eosinophilic gastritis. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2014; 15:248. [PMID: 25467651 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(14)70892-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel F Carrascosa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital of Laredo, Laredo, Cantabria, Spain.
| | | | | | - Javier Gómez Román
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Pathology Department, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Faculty of Medicine, Santander, Cantabria, Spain
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Layer EH, Kennedy CE, Beckham SW, Mbwambo JK, Likindikoki S, Davis WW, Kerrigan DL, Brahmbhatt H. Multi-level factors affecting entry into and engagement in the HIV continuum of care in Iringa, Tanzania. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104961. [PMID: 25119665 PMCID: PMC4138017 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Progression through the HIV continuum of care, from HIV testing to lifelong retention in antiretroviral therapy (ART) care and treatment programs, is critical to the success of HIV treatment and prevention efforts. However, significant losses occur at each stage of the continuum and little is known about contextual factors contributing to disengagement at these stages. This study sought to explore multi-level barriers and facilitators influencing entry into and engagement in the continuum of care in Iringa, Tanzania. We used a mixed-methods study design including facility-based assessments and interviews with providers and clients of HIV testing and treatment services; interviews, focus group discussions and observations with community-based providers and clients of HIV care and support services; and longitudinal interviews with men and women living with HIV to understand their trajectories in care. Data were analyzed using narrative analysis to identify key themes across levels and stages in the continuum of care. Participants identified multiple compounding barriers to progression through the continuum of care at the individual, facility, community and structural levels. Key barriers included the reluctance to engage in HIV services while healthy, rigid clinic policies, disrespectful treatment from service providers, stock-outs of supplies, stigma and discrimination, alternate healing systems, distance to health facilities and poverty. Social support from family, friends or support groups, home-based care providers, income generating opportunities and community mobilization activities facilitated engagement throughout the HIV continuum. Findings highlight the complex, multi-dimensional dynamics that individuals experience throughout the continuum of care and underscore the importance of a holistic and multi-level perspective to understand this process. Addressing barriers at each level is important to promoting increased engagement throughout the continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica H. Layer
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Caitlin E. Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - S. Wilson Beckham
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jessie K. Mbwambo
- Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Wendy W. Davis
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Deanna L. Kerrigan
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Heena Brahmbhatt
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Interventions to improve or facilitate linkage to or retention in pre-ART (HIV) care and initiation of ART in low- and middle-income settings--a systematic review. J Int AIDS Soc 2014; 17:19032. [PMID: 25095831 PMCID: PMC4122816 DOI: 10.7448/ias.17.1.19032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Revised: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several approaches have been taken to reduce pre-antiretroviral therapy (ART) losses between HIV testing and ART initiation in low- and middle-income countries, but a systematic assessment of the evidence has not yet been undertaken. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the potential for interventions to improve or facilitate linkage to or retention in pre-ART care and initiation of ART in low- and middle-income settings. METHODS An electronic search was conducted on Medline, Embase, Global Health, Web of Science and conference databases to identify studies describing interventions aimed at improving linkage to or retention in pre-ART care or initiation of ART. Additional searches were conducted to identify on-going trials on this topic, and experts in the field were contacted. An assessment of the risk of bias was conducted. Interventions were categorized according to key domains in the existing literature. RESULTS A total of 11,129 potentially relevant citations were identified, of which 24 were eligible for inclusion, with the majority (n=21) from sub-Saharan Africa. In addition, 15 on-going trials were identified. The most common interventions described under key domains included: health system interventions (i.e. integration in the setting of antenatal care); patient convenience and accessibility (i.e. point-of-care CD4 count (POC) testing with immediate results, home-based ART initiation); behaviour interventions and peer support (i.e. improved communication, patient referral and education) and incentives (i.e. food support). Several interventions showed favourable outcomes: integration of care and peer supporters increased enrolment into HIV care, medical incentives increased pre-ART retention, POC CD4 testing and food incentives increased completion of ART eligibility screening and ART initiation. Most studies focused on the general adult patient population or pregnant women. The majority of published studies were observational cohort studies, subject to an unclear risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that streamlining services to minimize patient visits, providing adequate medical and peer support, and providing incentives may decrease attrition, but the quality of the current evidence base is low. Few studies have investigated combined interventions, or assessed the impact of interventions across the HIV cascade. RESULTS from on-going trials investigating POC CD4 count testing, patient navigation, rapid ART initiation and mobile phone technology may fill the quality of evidence gap. Further high-quality studies on key population groups are required, with interventions informed by previously reported barriers to care.
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Gupta S, Granich R, Hersh B, Lepere P, Samb B. Global Policy Review of Recommendations on Cotrimoxazole Prophylaxis among People Living with HIV. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2014; 13:397-401. [PMID: 24899258 DOI: 10.1177/2325957414535976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Treatment 2015 calls for expanded access to HIV care and treatment, including cotrimoxazole preventive therapy (CPT), for prevention of HIV-related morbidity and mortality. We review 115 national guidelines from 92 countries for recommendations on CPT for adults and adolescents and determine the level of consistency with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Of the 66 countries with recommendations, 5 (8%) countries recommend lifelong CPT for people living with HIV; 19 (29%) countries recommend a CD4 count threshold of ≤350 cells/mm(3) or WHO clinical stages III and IV or II, III, and IV; and 19 (29%) countries recommend a CD4 count threshold of ≤200 cells/mm(3). Of the 48 countries with recommendations on discontinuing CPT, 25 (52%) countries recommend discontinuation of cotrimoxazole when the CD4 count is >200 cells/mm(3). World Health Organization guidelines offer countries flexibility on the use of CPT, and countries are recommending a wide range of CD4 counts and WHO clinical stage criteria for prophylaxis initiation and discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somya Gupta
- Special Initiatives, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Reuben Granich
- Special Initiatives, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bradley Hersh
- Global Financing Mechanisms and Collaboration Division, UNAIDS, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Lepere
- Special Initiatives, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Badara Samb
- Special Initiatives, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
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Penfold S, Simms V, Downing J, Powell RA, Mwangi-Powell F, Namisango E, Moreland S, Atieno M, Gikaara N, Kataike J, Kwebiha C, Munene G, Banga G, Higginson IJ, Harding R. The HIV basic care package: where is it available and who receives it? Findings from a mixed methods evaluation in Kenya and Uganda. AIDS Care 2014; 26:1155-63. [PMID: 24512641 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2014.882489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
An evidence-based basic care package (BCP) of seven interventions (Family testing, Cotrimoxazole, Condoms, Multivitamins, Access to safe water treatment, Isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT), and Insecticide-treated bednet) has been advocated to prevent infections among people with HIV in low-income settings. We examined the availability and receipt of the BCP in HIV outpatient clinics in Kenya and Uganda. A survey of 120 PEPFAR-funded facilities determined the services offered. At each of the 12 largest facilities, a longitudinal cohort of 100 patients was recruited to examine care received and health status over three months. The full BCP was offered in 14% (n = 17/120) of facilities; interventions most commonly offered were Support for family testing (87%) and Condoms (87%), and least commonly IPT (38%). Patients (n = 1335) most commonly reported receiving Cotrimoxazole (57%) and Multivitamins (36%), and least commonly IPT (4%), directly from the facility attended. The BCP (excluding Isoniazid) was received by 3% of patients directly from the facility and 24% from any location. BCP receipt was associated with using antiretroviral therapy (ART; OR 1.1 (95% CI 1.0-1.1), receipt from any location) but not with patient gender, wealth, education level or health. The BCP should be offered at more HIV care facilities, especially Isoniazid, and to more people irrespective of ART use. Coordinating local BCP suppliers could help improve availability through addressing logistical challenges or reducing costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Penfold
- a Cicely Saunders Institute , King's College London , London , UK
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Govindasamy D, Kranzer K, Ford N. Strengthening the HIV cascade to ensure an effective future ART response in sub-Saharan Africa. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2013; 108:1-3. [PMID: 24284954 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trt105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Timely linkage to antiretroviral therapy (ART) care is critical for reducing HIV-related morbidity, mortality and transmission. Studies investigating interventions to improve linkage to, and retention in, pre-ART care in sub-Saharan Africa were reviewed. Certain interventions used to overcome economic barriers for ART-patients (i.e. integration of services, medical and food incentives, intensified counselling and peer support) have also shown favourable results in the pre-ART period. A combined package of interventions found to be effective in the pre-ART and ART period might be effective for reducing attrition in both periods. Further operational research in this area is needed to identify local solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darshini Govindasamy
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Govindasamy D, Kranzer K, van Schaik N, Noubary F, Wood R, Walensky RP, Freedberg KA, Bassett IV, Bekker LG. Linkage to HIV, TB and non-communicable disease care from a mobile testing unit in Cape Town, South Africa. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80017. [PMID: 24236170 PMCID: PMC3827432 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV counseling and testing may serve as an entry point for non-communicable disease screening. OBJECTIVES To determine the yield of newly-diagnosed HIV, tuberculosis (TB) symptoms, diabetes and hypertension, and to assess CD4 count testing, linkage to care as well as correlates of linkage and barriers to care from a mobile testing unit. METHODS A mobile unit provided screening for HIV, TB symptoms, diabetes and hypertension in Cape Town, South Africa between March 2010 and September 2011. The yield of newly-diagnosed cases of these conditions was measured and clients were followed-up between January and November 2011 to assess linkage. Linkage to care was defined as accessing care within one, three or six months post-HIV diagnosis (dependent on CD4 count) and one month post-diagnosis for other conditions. Clinical and socio-demographic correlates of linkage to care were evaluated using Poisson regression and barriers to care were determined. RESULTS Of 9,806 clients screened, the yield of new diagnoses was: HIV (5.5%), TB suspects (10.1%), diabetes (0.8%) and hypertension (58.1%). Linkage to care for HIV-infected clients, TB suspects, diabetics and hypertensives was: 51.3%, 56.7%, 74.1% and 50.0%. Only disclosure of HIV-positive status to family members or partners (RR=2.6, 95% CI: 1.04-6.3, p=0.04) was independently associated with linkage to HIV care. The main barrier to care reported by all groups was lack of time to access a clinic. CONCLUSION Screening for HIV, TB symptoms and hypertension at mobile units in South Africa has a high yield but inadequate linkage. After-hours and weekend clinics may overcome a major barrier to accessing care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darshini Govindasamy
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nienke van Schaik
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Farzad Noubary
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- The Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Robin Wood
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rochelle P. Walensky
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Divisions of General Medicine and Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Disease, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Kenneth A. Freedberg
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Divisions of General Medicine and Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ingrid V. Bassett
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Divisions of General Medicine and Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Lahuerta M, Wu Y, Hoffman S, Elul B, Kulkarni SG, Remien RH, Nuwagaba-Biribonwoha H, El-Sadr W, Nash D. Advanced HIV disease at entry into HIV care and initiation of antiretroviral therapy during 2006-2011: findings from four sub-saharan African countries. Clin Infect Dis 2013; 58:432-41. [PMID: 24198226 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cit724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timely antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation requires early diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection with prompt enrollment and engagement in HIV care. METHODS We examined programmatic data on 334 557 adults enrolling in HIV care, including 149 032 who initiated ART during 2006-2011 at 132 facilities in Kenya, Mozambique, Rwanda, and Tanzania. We examined trends in advanced HIV disease (CD4+ count <100 cells/μL or World Health Organization disease stage IV) and determinants of advanced HIV disease at ART initiation. RESULTS Between 2006-2011, the median CD4+ count at ART initiation increased from 125 to 185 cells/μL an increase of 10 cells/year. Although the proportion of patients initiating ART with advanced HIV disease decreased from 42% to 29%, sex disparities widened. In 2011, the odds of advanced disease at ART initiation were higher among men (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.4; 95% CI, 1.3-1.5), those on tuberculosis treatment (AOR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.3-2.0), and those with a ≥ 12 month gap in pre-ART care (AOR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.6-2.6). CONCLUSIONS Intensified efforts are needed to identify and link HIV-infected individuals to care earlier and to retain them in continuous pre-ART care to facilitate more timely ART initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lahuerta
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP-Columbia University
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Predictors of attrition in patients ineligible for antiretroviral therapy after being diagnosed with HIV: data from an HIV cohort study in India. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:858023. [PMID: 24069604 PMCID: PMC3773413 DOI: 10.1155/2013/858023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 08/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In newly HIV-diagnosed patients, the CD4+ lymphocyte count is measured to determine the need for antiretroviral therapy (ART). Studies from Sub-Saharan Africa have shown that patients who are ART ineligible at the first assessment have poor retention in care, but data from other low- or middle-income countries are scarce. In this study we describe the retention in pre-ART care of 1696 patients who were ineligible for ART after being diagnosed with HIV in a cohort study in India. More than one-third of ART ineligible patients had poor retention in care, and the attrition was higher in those with longer follow-up periods. Of those patients with poor retention, only 10% came back to the clinics, and their CD4 cell counts were lower than the ones of patients retained in care. After 4.5 years of follow-up, the cumulative incidence of loss to follow-up was 50%. Factors associated with attrition were being homeless, being illiterate, belonging to a disadvantaged community, being symptomatic at the time of the HIV diagnosis, male gender, and not living near a town. Widows were given nutritional support and, therefore, had better retention in care. The results of this study highlight the need to improve the retention in care of ART ineligible patients in India.
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Immune recovery after starting ART in HIV-infected patients presenting and not presenting with tuberculosis in South Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2013; 63:142-5. [PMID: 23364513 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0b013e318288b39d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We studied the immune response after starting antiretroviral treatment (ART) in 15,646 HIV-infected patients with or without tuberculosis (TB) at presentation in 3 ART programs in South Africa between 2003 and 2010. Patients presenting with TB had similar increases in CD4 cells compared with all other patients (adjusted difference 4.9 cells/µL per 6 months, 95% confidence interval: 0.2 to 9.7). Younger age, advanced clinical stage, female sex, and lower CD4 cell count at ART start were all associated with steeper CD4 slopes. In South Africa, HIV-infected patients presenting with TB experience immune recovery after starting ART that is no worse than in other patients.
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van der Kop ML, Ojakaa DI, Patel A, Thabane L, Kinagwi K, Ekström AM, Smillie K, Karanja S, Awiti P, Mills E, Marra C, Kyomuhangi LB, Lester RT. The effect of weekly short message service communication on patient retention in care in the first year after HIV diagnosis: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (WelTel Retain). BMJ Open 2013; 3:bmjopen-2013-003155. [PMID: 23794578 PMCID: PMC3686229 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2013-003155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Interventions to improve retention in care after HIV diagnosis are necessary to optimise the timely initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and HIV/AIDS control outcomes. Widespread mobile phone use presents new opportunities to engage patients in care. A randomised controlled trial (RCT), WelTel Kenya1, demonstrated that weekly text messages led to improved ART adherence and viral load suppression among those initiating ART. The aim of this study was to determine whether the WelTel intervention is an effective and cost-effective method of improving retention in care in the first year of care following HIV diagnosis. METHODS AND ANALYSIS WelTel Retain is an open, parallel group RCT that will be conducted at the Kibera Community Health Centre in Nairobi, Kenya. Over a 1-year period, we aim to recruit 686 individuals newly diagnosed with HIV who will be randomly allocated to an intervention or control arm (standard care) at a 1:1 ratio. Intervention arm participants will receive the weekly WelTel SMS 'check-in' to which they will be instructed to respond within 48 h. An HIV clinician will follow-up and triage any problems that are identified. Participants will be followed for 1 year, with a primary endpoint of retention in care at 12 months. Secondary outcomes include retention in stage 1 HIV care (patients return to the clinic to receive their first CD4 results) and timely ART initiation. Cost-effectiveness will be analysed through decision-analytic modelling. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from the University of British Columbia and the African Medical and Research Foundation. This trial will test the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the WelTel intervention to engage patients during the first year of HIV care. Trial results and economic evaluation will help inform policy and practice on the use of WelTel in the early stages of HIV care. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01630304.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia L van der Kop
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Anik Patel
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Koki Kinagwi
- African Medical and Research Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anna Mia Ekström
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kirsten Smillie
- Clinical Prevention Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sarah Karanja
- WelTel International mHealth Society, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Patricia Awiti
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Edward Mills
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Carlo Marra
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Richard T Lester
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Factors associated with loss to clinic among HIV patients not yet known to be eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Mozambique. J Int AIDS Soc 2013; 16:18490. [PMID: 23755857 PMCID: PMC3679527 DOI: 10.7448/ias.16.1.18490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Retention in HIV care prior to ART initiation is generally felt to be suboptimal, but has not been well-characterized. Methods We examined data on 37,352 adult pre-ART patients (ART ineligible or unknown eligibility) who enrolled in care during 2005–2008 with >1 clinical visit at 23 clinics in Mozambique. We defined loss to clinic (LTC) as >12 months since the last visit among those not known to have died/transferred. Cox proportional-hazards models were used to examine factors associated with LTC, accounting for clustering within sites. Results Of 37,352 pre-ART patients, 61% had a CD4 count within three months of enrolment (median CD4: 452, IQR: 345–611). 17,598 (47.1%) were ART ineligible and 19,754 (52.9%) were of unknown eligibility status at enrolment because of missing information on CD4 count and/or WHO stage. Kaplan-Meier estimates for LTC at 12 months were 41% (95% CI: 40.2–41.8) and 48% (95% CI: 47.2–48.8), respectively. Factors associated with LTC among ART ineligible patients included male sex (AHRmen_vs_non-pregnant women: 1.5; 95% CI: 1.4–1.6) and being pregnant at enrolment (AHRpregnant_vs_non-pregnant women: 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1–1.5). Older age, more education, higher weight and more advanced WHO stage at enrolment were independently associated with lower risks of LTC. Similar findings were observed among patients whose ART eligibility status was unknown at enrolment. Conclusions Substantial LTC occurred prior to ART initiation among patients not yet known to be eligible for ART, including nearly half of patients without documented ART eligibility assessment. Interventions are needed to target pre-ART patients who may be at higher risk for LTC, including pregnant women and patients with less advanced HIV disease.
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Scanlon ML, Vreeman RC. Current strategies for improving access and adherence to antiretroviral therapies in resource-limited settings. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2013; 5:1-17. [PMID: 23326204 PMCID: PMC3544393 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s28912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The rollout of antiretroviral therapy (ART) significantly reduced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related morbidity and mortality, but good clinical outcomes depend on access and adherence to treatment. In resource-limited settings, where over 90% of the world's HIV-infected population resides, data on barriers to treatment are emerging that contribute to low rates of uptake in HIV testing, linkage to and retention in HIV care systems, and suboptimal adherence rates to therapy. A review of the literature reveals limited evidence to inform strategies to improve access and adherence with the majority of studies from sub-Saharan Africa. Data from observational studies and randomized controlled trials support home-based, mobile and antenatal care HIV testing, task-shifting from doctor-based to nurse-based and lower level provider care, and adherence support through education, counseling and mobile phone messaging services. Strategies with more limited evidence include targeted HIV testing for couples and family members of ART patients, decentralization of HIV care, including through home- and community-based ART programs, and adherence promotion through peer health workers, treatment supporters, and directly observed therapy. There is little evidence for improving access and adherence among vulnerable groups such as women, children and adolescents, and other high-risk populations and for addressing major barriers. Overall, studies are few in number and suffer from methodological issues. Recommendations for further research include health information technology, social-level factors like HIV stigma, and new research directions in cost-effectiveness, operations, and implementation. Findings from this review make a compelling case for more data to guide strategies to improve access and adherence to treatment in resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Scanlon
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- USAID, Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Partnership, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- USAID, Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Partnership, Eldoret, Kenya
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Chang LW, Serwadda D, Quinn TC, Wawer MJ, Gray RH, Reynolds SJ. Combination implementation for HIV prevention: moving from clinical trial evidence to population-level effects. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2013; 13:65-76. [PMID: 23257232 PMCID: PMC3792852 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(12)70273-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The promise of combination HIV prevention-the application of multiple HIV prevention interventions to maximise population-level effects-has never been greater. However, to succeed in achieving significant reductions in HIV incidence, an additional concept needs to be considered: combination implementation. Combination implementation for HIV prevention is the pragmatic, localised application of evidence-based strategies to enable high sustained uptake and quality of interventions for prevention of HIV. In this Review, we explore diverse implementation strategies including HIV testing and counselling models, task shifting, linkage to and retention in care, antiretroviral therapy support, behaviour change, demand creation, and structural interventions, and discusses how they could be used to complement HIV prevention efforts such as medical male circumcision and treatment as prevention. HIV prevention and treatment have arrived at a pivotal moment when combination efforts might result in substantial enough population-level effects to reverse the epidemic and drive towards elimination of HIV. Only through careful consideration of how to implement and operationalise HIV prevention interventions will the HIV community be able to move from clinical trial evidence to population-level effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry W Chang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Who starts? Factors associated with starting antiretroviral therapy among eligible patients in two, public HIV clinics in Lilongwe, Malawi. PLoS One 2012; 7:e50871. [PMID: 23226413 PMCID: PMC3511327 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0050871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lighthouse Trust operates two, public, integrated HIV clinics, Lighthouse (LH) and Martin Preuss Center (MPC), in Lilongwe, Malawi. Approximately 20% of patients eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) do not start ART. We explore individual and geographic factors that influence whether ART-eligible patients initiate ART. Methods Adult patients eligible for ART between 2008–2011 were included. Analysis was stratified by clinic. Using logistic regression, we evaluated factors associated with initiating ART including gender, age, body mass index (BMI), employment, tuberculosis (TB), eligible at initial registration, WHO stage, CD4, months in pre-ART care (from initial registration to eligibility date), and patient neighborhood distance to clinic. Results Of 14,216 study patients, 4841 were from LH; 9285 were from MPC. At LH and MPC, respectively, median age was 34.2 and 33.8 years; median BMI was 22.0 and 20.6; and median distance was 5.6 and 4.9 Km. In multivariate models, odds of starting ART was highest among those older than 35 years and those eligible for ART based on WHO stages 3–4 vs. those in WHO stages 1–2 with CD4<250. Patients with 1–12 months in pre-ART were at least 11 times more likely to start ART than peers with less pre-ART time. At LH, living 2.5–5 Km from the clinic increased the likelihood of starting ART over patients living closer. Conclusions Length of the pre-ART period is the most significant predictor of starting ART among eligible patients. Better understanding of motivation for retention in pre-ART care may reduce attrition along the treatment cascade.
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Mugglin C, Estill J, Wandeler G, Bender N, Egger M, Gsponer T, Keiser O. Loss to programme between HIV diagnosis and initiation of antiretroviral therapy in sub-Saharan Africa: systematic review and meta-analysis. Trop Med Int Health 2012; 17:1509-20. [PMID: 22994151 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2012.03089.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the proportion of patients lost to programme (died, lost to follow-up, transferred out) between HIV diagnosis and start of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in sub-Saharan Africa, and determine factors associated with loss to programme. METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched PubMed and EMBASE databases for studies in adults. Outcomes were the percentage of patients dying before starting ART, the percentage lost to follow-up, the percentage with a CD4 cell count, the distribution of first CD4 counts and the percentage of eligible patients starting ART. Data were combined using random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS Twenty-nine studies from sub-Saharan Africa including 148,912 patients were analysed. Six studies covered the whole period from HIV diagnosis to ART start. Meta-analysis of these studies showed that of the 100 patients with a positive HIV test, 72 (95% CI 60-84) had a CD4 cell count measured, 40 (95% CI 26-55) were eligible for ART and 25 (95% CI 13-37) started ART. There was substantial heterogeneity between studies (P < 0.0001). Median CD4 cell count at presentation ranged from 154 to 274 cells/μl. Patients eligible for ART were less likely to become lost to programme (25%vs. 54%, P < 0.0001), but eligible patients were more likely to die (11%vs. 5%, P < 0.0001) than ineligible patients. Loss to programme was higher in men, in patients with low CD4 cell counts and low socio-economic status and in recent time periods. CONCLUSIONS Monitoring and care in the pre-ART time period need improvement, with greater emphasis on patients not yet eligible for ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catrina Mugglin
- Division of International and Environmental Health, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Peterson K, van Griensven J, Huis in 't Veld D, Colebunders R. Interventions to reduce mortality in sub-Saharan Africa among HIV-infected adults not yet on antiretroviral therapy. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2012; 10:43-50. [PMID: 22149613 DOI: 10.1586/eri.11.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Where antiretroviral therapy is available, the primary source of mortality among HIV-infected people is the delay in starting treatment. Many of these delays occur in the context of care and are modifiable through changes in the protocols followed by healthcare providers for HIV testing, staging and preparation of patients for antiretroviral therapy. A number of potential evidence-based interventions are discussed in the context of sub-Saharan Africa. Included are decentralizing services, initiating counseling on antiretroviral therapy without delay, tracing patients that miss appointments, protecting patient confidentiality, reducing user fees, and providing point-of-care tests for CD4 cell counts, cryptococcal antigen, and for the diagnosis of TB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Peterson
- Institute for Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium.
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Suthar AB, Granich R, Mermin J, Van Rie A. Effect of cotrimoxazole on mortality in HIV-infected adults on antiretroviral therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Bull World Health Organ 2011; 90:128C-138C. [PMID: 22423164 DOI: 10.2471/blt.11.093260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2011] [Accepted: 09/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether cotrimoxazole reduces mortality in adults receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in low- and middle-income countries through a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS PubMed and Embase were searched for randomized controlled trials and prospective and retrospective cohort studies that compared mortality or morbidity in HIV-infected individuals aged ≥ 13 years on cotrimoxazole and ART and on ART alone. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale was used to assess selection, confounding and measurement bias. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's and Begg's tests. Sensitivity analysis was performed because the I-squared statistic indicated substantial heterogeneity in study results. A random-effects model was used for meta-analysis. FINDINGS Nine studies were included. Begg and Egger P-values for the seven that reported the effect of cotrimoxazole on mortality were 0.29 and 0.49, respectively, suggesting no publication bias. The I-squared statistic was 93.2%, indicating high heterogeneity in study results. The sensitivity analysis showed that neither the follow-up duration nor the percentage of individuals with World Health Organization stage 3 or 4 HIV disease at baseline explained the heterogeneity. The summary estimate of the effect of cotrimoxazole on the incidence rate of death was 0.42 (95% confidence interval: 0.29-0.61). Since most studies followed participants for less than 1 year, it was not possible to determine whether cotrimoxazole can be stopped safely after ART-induced immune reconstitution. CONCLUSION Cotrimoxazole significantly increased survival in HIV-infected adults on ART. Further research is needed to determine the optimum duration of cotrimoxazole treatment in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amitabh B Suthar
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
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Tanton C, Abu-Raddad LJ, Weiss HA. Time to refocus on HSV interventions for HIV prevention? J Infect Dis 2011; 204:1822-6. [PMID: 21998480 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jir653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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