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Amone A, Gabagaya G, Wavamunno P, Rukundo G, Namale-Matovu J, Malamba SS, Lubega I, Homsy J, King R, Nakabiito C, Namukwaya Z, Fowler MG, Musoke P. Enhanced peer-group strategies to support the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission leads to increased retention in care in Uganda: A randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297652. [PMID: 38640123 PMCID: PMC11029615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the scale-up of Option B+, long-term retention of women in HIV care during pregnancy and the postpartum period remains an important challenge. We compared adherence to clinic appointments and antiretroviral therapy (ART) at 6 weeks, 6, and and 24 months postpartum among pregnant women living with HIV and initiating Option B+. Women were randomized to a peer group support, community-based drug distribution and income-generating intervention called "Friends for Life Circles" (FLCs) versus the standard of care (SOC). Our secondary outcome was infant HIV status and HIV-free survival at 6 weeks and 18 months postpartum. METHODS Between 16 May 2016 and 12 September 2017, 540 ART-naïve pregnant women living with HIV at urban and rural health facilities in Uganda were enrolled in the study at any gestational age. Participants were randomized 1:1 to the unblinded FLC intervention or SOC at enrolment and assessed for adherence to the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) clinic appointments at 6 weeks, 12, and 24 months postpartum, self-reported adherence to ART at 6 weeks, 6 and 24 months postpartum and supported by plasma HIV-1 RNA viral load (VL) measured at the same time points, retention in care through the end of study, and HIV status and HIV-free survival of infants at 18 months postpartum. The FLC groups were formed during pregnancy within 4 months of enrollment and held monthly meetings in their communites, and were followed up until the last group participant reached 24 months post delivery. We used Log-rank and Chi-Square p-values to test the equality of Kaplan-Meier survival probabilities and hazard rates (HR) for failure to retain in care for any reason by study arm. RESULTS There was no significant difference in adherence to PMTCT clinic visits or to ART or in median viral loads between FLC and SOC arms at any follow-up time points. Retention in care through the end of study was high in both arms but significantly higher among participants randomized to FLC (86.7%) compared to SOC (79.3%), p = 0.022. The adjusted HR of visit dropout was 2.4 times greater among participants randomized to SOC compared to FLC (aHR = 2.363, 95% CI: 1.199-4.656, p = 0.013). Median VL remained < 400 copies/ml in both arms at 6 weeks, 6, and 24 months postpartum. Eight of the 431 infants tested at 18 months were HIV positive (1.9%), however, this was not statistically different among mothers enrolled in the FLC arm compared to those in the SOC arm. At 18 months, HIV-free survival of children born to mothers in the FLC arm was significantly higher than that of children born to mothers in the SOC arm. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that programmatic interventions that provide group support, community-based ART distribution, and income-generation activities may contribute to retention in PMTCT care, HIV-free survival of children born to women living with HIV, and ultimately, to the elimination of mother-to-child HIV transmission (EMTCT). TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02515370 (04/08/2015) on ClinicalTrials.gov.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Amone
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Gabagaya
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Priscilla Wavamunno
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gordon Rukundo
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joyce Namale-Matovu
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Irene Lubega
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jaco Homsy
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Rachel King
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Clemensia Nakabiito
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Zikulah Namukwaya
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mary Glenn Fowler
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Philippa Musoke
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Cardenas MC, Farnan S, Hamel BL, Mejia Plazas MC, Sintim-Aboagye E, Littlefield DR, Behl S, Punia S, Enninga EAL, Johnson E, Temesgen Z, Theiler R, Gray CM, Chakraborty R. Prevention of the Vertical Transmission of HIV; A Recap of the Journey so Far. Viruses 2023; 15:v15040849. [PMID: 37112830 PMCID: PMC10142818 DOI: 10.3390/v15040849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In 1989, one in four (25%) infants born to women living with HIV were infected; by the age of 2 years, there was 25% mortality among them due to HIV. These and other pieces of data prompted the development of interventions to offset vertical transmission, including the landmark Pediatric AIDS Clinical Trial Group Study (PACTG 076) in 1994. This study reported a 67.5% reduction in perinatal HIV transmission with prophylactic antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal zidovudine. Numerous studies since then have provided compelling evidence to further optimize interventions, such that annual transmission rates of 0% are now reported by many health departments in the US and elimination has been validated in several countries around the world. Despite this success, the elimination of HIV’s vertical transmission on the global scale remains a work in progress, limited by socioeconomic factors such as the prohibitive cost of antiretrovirals. Here, we review some of the key trials underpinning the development of guidelines in the US as well as globally, and discuss the evidence through a historic lens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Camila Cardenas
- Pediatric Residency Program, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Sheila Farnan
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Benjamin L. Hamel
- Pediatric Residency Program, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Maria Camila Mejia Plazas
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Pediatric Residency Program, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, 3100 SW 62nd Ave, Miami, FL 33155, USA
| | - Elise Sintim-Aboagye
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Dawn R. Littlefield
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Supriya Behl
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Sohan Punia
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Elizabeth Ann L Enninga
- Maternal Fetal Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 33155, USA
| | - Erica Johnson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - Zelalem Temesgen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Regan Theiler
- Maternal Fetal Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 33155, USA
| | - Clive M. Gray
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Biomedical Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town 7600, South Africa
| | - Rana Chakraborty
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-507-293-9531
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3
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Helova A, Onono M, Abuogi LL, Hampanda K, Owuor K, Odwar T, Krishna S, Odhiambo G, Odeny T, Turan JM. Experiences, perceptions and potential impact of community-based mentor mothers supporting pregnant and postpartum women with HIV in Kenya: a mixed-methods study. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25843. [PMID: 34797955 PMCID: PMC8604379 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25843] [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: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Community‐based mentor mothers (cMMs) are women living with HIV who provide peer support to pregnant/postpartum women living with HIV (PWLWH) to enhance antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, retention in care and prevent perinatal transmission of HIV. The goal of this study was to explore the experiences, perceptions, mechanisms and health impact of cMMs on PWLWH in Kenya from the perspective of cMMs. Methods We conducted a prospective mixed‐methods study in southwestern Kenya in 2015–2018. In the qualitative phase, we completed in‐depth interviews with cMMs to explore their perceptions and experiences in supporting PWLWH. Transcripts were broad‐coded according to identified themes, then fine‐coded using an inductive approach. In the quantitative phase, we analysed medical record data from PWLWH who were randomized in the cMM intervention to examine the impact of cMM visits on optimal prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission (PMTCT). We used cluster‐adjusted generalized estimating equation models to examine relationships with a composite outcome (facility delivery, infant HIV testing, ART adherence and undetectable viral load at 6 weeks postpartum). Finally, qualitative and quantitative results were integrated. Results Convergence of findings from cMM interviews (n = 24) and PWLWH medical data (n = 589) revealed: (1) The cMM intervention was utilized and perceived as acceptable. PWLWH received, on average, 6.2 of 8 intended home visits through 6 weeks postpartum. (2) The cMMs reported serving as role models and confidantes, supporting PWLWH's acceptance of their HIV status, providing assurances about PMTCT and assisting with male partner disclosure and communication. cMMs also described benefits for themselves, including empowerment and increased income. (3) The cMM visits supported PWLWH's completion of PMTCT steps. Having ≥4 cMM home visits up to 6 weeks postpartum, as compared to <4 visits, was associated with higher likelihood of an optimal PMTCT composite outcome (adjusted relative risk 1.42, p = 0.044). Conclusions We found that peer support from cMMs during pregnancy through 6 weeks postpartum was associated with improved uptake of critical PMTCT services and health behaviours and was perceived as beneficial for cMMs themselves. CMM support of PWLWH may be valuable for other low‐resource settings to improve engagement with lifelong ART and HIV services among PWLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Helova
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy and Sparkman Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Maricianah Onono
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lisa L Abuogi
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Karen Hampanda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kevin Owuor
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Tobias Odwar
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sandhya Krishna
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy and Sparkman Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Gladys Odhiambo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Thomas Odeny
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Janet M Turan
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy and Sparkman Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Font H, Rollins N, Essajee S, Becquet R, Foster G, Mangwiro AZ, Mwapasa V, Oyeledun B, Phiri S, Sam-Agudu NA, Bellare NB, Orne-Gliemann J. Retention-in-care in the PMTCT cascade: definitions matter! Analyses from the INSPIRE projects in Malawi, Nigeria and Zimbabwe. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 23:e25609. [PMID: 33030306 PMCID: PMC7543052 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Definitions of retention‐in‐care in Prevention of Mother‐to‐Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) vary substantially between studies and programmes. Some definitions are based on visits missed/made, others on a minimum total number of visits, or attendance at a final clinic visit at a specific time. An agreed definition could contribute to developing evidence‐based interventions for improving retention‐in‐care. In this paper, we estimated retention‐in‐care rates according to different definitions, and we quantified and visualized the degree of agreement between definitions. Methods We calculated retention in care rates using nine definitions in the six INSPIRE PMTCT intervention studies, conducted in three sub‐Saharan African countries between 2013 and 2017. With data from one of the studies (E4E), we estimated the agreement between definitions using Gwet’s agreement coefficient (AC1) and concordance. We calculated positive predictive values (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) for all definitions considering successively each definition as the reference standard. Finally, we used a Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) to examine clustering of the way different definitions handle retention‐in‐care. Results Retention‐in‐care rates among 5107 women ranged from 30% to 76% in the complete dataset with Gwet’s AC1 being 0.56 [0.53; 0.59] indicating a moderate agreement between all definitions together. Two pairs of definitions with high inner concordance and agreement had either very high PPV or very high NPV, and appeared distinct from the other five definitions on the MCA figures. These pairs of definitions were also the ones resulting in the lowest and highest estimates of retention‐in‐care. The simplest definition, that only required a final clinic visit to classify women as retained in care, and classified 55% of women as retained in care, had a PPV ranging from 0.7 to 1 and a NPV ranging from 0.69 to 0.98 when excluding the two pairs afore‐mentioned; it resulted in a moderate to substantial agreement and a 70% to 90% concordance with all other definitions. Conclusions Our study highlights the variability of definitions in estimating retention‐in‐care. Some definitions are very stringent which may be required in some instances. A simple indicator such as attendance at a single time point may be sufficient for programme planning and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Font
- ISPED, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Nigel Rollins
- Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Renaud Becquet
- ISPED, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Geoff Foster
- Family AIDS Caring Trust, World Health Organization, Mutare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Victor Mwapasa
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Sam Phiri
- Lighthouse Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi.,Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Nadia A Sam-Agudu
- International Research Center of Excellence, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria.,Division of Epidemiology and Prevention, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nita B Bellare
- Strategic Information Department, UNAIDS, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Joanna Orne-Gliemann
- ISPED, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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Musarandega R, Robinson J, Sen PD, Hakobyan A, Mushavi A, Mahomva A, Woelk G. Using the critical path method to rollout and optimise new PMTCT guidelines to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Zimbabwe: a descriptive analysis. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:1042. [PMID: 33187527 PMCID: PMC7663875 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05900-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achievement of the elimination target for mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV in selected countries has increased hope to end the HIV epidemic in children across the world. However, MTCT rates remain well above the 5% elimination target in most sub-Saharan Africa countries. These countries require innovative strategies to scale-up their interventions to end paediatric HIV. We describe how the Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) consortium and the Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) used the critical path method to facilitate rapid expansion and optimization of 2010 and 2013 WHO PMTCT guidelines to reduce Zimbabwe's MTCT rate from 22% in 2010 to 6.4% in 2015. METHODS We analysed activities implemented and PMTCT programme data for the period before and during the EGPAF-CIFF project. The critical path method involved a cycle of collecting and analysing quarterly PMTCT indicator data and planning and implementing targeted activities to improve the PMTCT indicators. We performed a graphical trend analysis of data that measured availability of PMTCT services. Using Pearson's Chi2 test, we compared results of PMTCT uptake indicators at the start and end of the EGPAF-CIFF project and used regression discontinuity analysis to assess effectiveness of activities implemented to improve the PMTCT service uptake indicators. RESULTS Zimbabwe rolled out WHO 2010 and 2013 PMTCT guidelines in less than 1 year during the EGPAF-CIFF project, yet it took more than 4 years to roll-out previous guidelines. All PMTCT indicators increased significantly (p < 0.001) comparing the five-year periods before and during the EGPAF-CIFF project. Critical path activities implemented increased five of the seven PMTCT uptake indicators. CONCLUSION Zimbabwe rapidly rolled-out and optimised new WHO PMTCT guidelines and drastically reduced its MTCT rate using the critical path method. We recommend wider use of the critical path method in public health programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reuben Musarandega
- Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), Block 5, Arundel Office Park, Mt Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | | | - Priti Dave Sen
- Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), London, UK
| | - Anna Hakobyan
- Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), London, UK
| | - Angela Mushavi
- Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Agnes Mahomva
- Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Godfrey Woelk
- Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington DC, USA
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Myrtil MP, Puttkammer N, Gloyd S, Robinson J, Yuhas K, Domercant JW, Honoré JG, Francois K. ART Attrition across Health Facilities Implementing Option B+ in Haiti. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2019; 17:2325958218774037. [PMID: 29781378 PMCID: PMC6748512 DOI: 10.1177/2325958218774037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Describing factors related to high attrition is important in order to improve the implementation of the Option B+ strategy in Haiti. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study to describe the variability of antiretroviral therapy (ART) retention across health facilities among pregnant and lactating women and assess for differences in ART retention between Option B+ clients and other ART patients. Results: There were 1989 Option B+ clients who initiated ART in 45 health facilities. The percentage of attrition varied from 9% to 81% across the facilities. The largest health facilities had 38% higher risk of attrition (relative risk [RR]: 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08-1.77, P = .009). Private institutions had 18% less risk of attrition (RR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.70-0.96, P = .020). Health facilities located in the West department and the South region had lower risk of attrition. Conclusion: Being on treatment in a large or public health facility or a facility located in the North region was a significant risk factor associated with high attrition among Option B+ clients. The implementation of the Option B+ strategy must be reevaluated in order to effectively eliminate mother-to-child HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy Puttkammer
- 1 Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,2 International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Stephen Gloyd
- 1 Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,3 Health Alliance International (HAI), Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Julia Robinson
- 1 Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,3 Health Alliance International (HAI), Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Krista Yuhas
- 4 University of Washington Center for AIDS Research, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Jean Guy Honoré
- 6 International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Port au Prince, Haiti
| | - Kesner Francois
- 7 Ministry of Health of the Government of Haiti, Port au Prince, Haiti
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7
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Wanga I, Helova A, Abuogi LL, Bukusi EA, Nalwa W, Akama E, Odeny TA, Turan JM, Onono M. Acceptability of community-based mentor mothers to support HIV-positive pregnant women on antiretroviral treatment in western Kenya: a qualitative study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:288. [PMID: 31409297 PMCID: PMC6693232 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2419-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Option B+ is a comprehensive antiretroviral treatment (ART) designed for HIV-infected pregnant/ postpartum women. However, barriers to implementing Option B+ and establishing long-term ART adherence while facilitating retention in prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) services remain. Community-based mentor mothers (cMMs) who can provide home-based support for PMTCT services may address some of the barriers to successful adoption and retention in Option B+. Thus, we evaluated the acceptability of using cMMs as home-based support for PMTCT services. METHODS Gender-matched in-depth interviews were conducted between September-November 2014 for HIV-infected pregnant/postpartum women and their male partners living in southwestern Kenya (n = 40); additionally, we conducted four focus groups involving 30 health workers (n = 70) within four health facilities. Audio-recordings were transcribed, translated, and then coded using a thematic analytical approach in which data were deductively and inductively coded with support from prior literature, identified themes within the interview guides, and emerging themes from the transcripts utilizing Dedoose software. RESULTS Overall, the study results suggest high acceptability of cMMs among individual participants and health workers. Stigma reduction, improvement of utilization of health care services, as well as ART adherence were most frequently discussed potential benefits of cMMs. Participants pictured a cMM as someone acting as a role model and confidant, and who was over 30 years old. Many respondents raised concerns about breaches of confidentiality and inadvertent disclosure. Respondent suggestions to overcome these issues included the cMM working in different communities than where she lives and attending home-visits with no identifying clothing as an HIV-related health worker. CONCLUSIONS The home-based cMM approach may be a beneficial and acceptable strategy for promoting ART adherence and retention within PMTCT services for pregnant/postpartum women living with HIV. Considering the risks of inadvertent disclosure of HIV-infected status and related negative consequences for pregnant/postpartum women living with HIV, similar cMM program designs may benefit from recognizing and addressing these risks. TRIAL REGISTRATION The MOTIVATE! study was registered on July 7, 2015 at the ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT02491177 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Wanga
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 19464 - 00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anna Helova
- Department of Health Care Policy and Organization, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 517 RPHB 1665 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
| | - Lisa L. Abuogi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver, 13199 East Montview Blvd, Suite 310 Mail Stop A090, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 19464 - 00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Wafula Nalwa
- Maseno University School of Medicine, Box 3365-40100, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Eliud Akama
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 19464 - 00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Thomas A. Odeny
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 19464 - 00202, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Janet M. Turan
- Department of Health Care Policy and Organization, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 517 RPHB 1665 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
| | - Maricianah Onono
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 19464 - 00202, Nairobi, Kenya
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A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Adherence Interventions for Women Living with HIV. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:1998-2013. [PMID: 30443806 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2341-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the efficacy of women-focused ART adherence interventions. Included studies (a) reported on a behavioral ART adherence intervention for cis-women living with HIV, (b) measured ART adherence as an outcome, and (c) employed a randomized controlled trial design. Thirteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, interventions significantly improved ART adherence compared to control conditions (random-effects d = 0.82, 95% CI [0.18, 1.45], p = 0.01), however, this was largely driven by two studies that had effect sizes greater than 3 standard errors above the mean effect size. Key moderators were location, recruitment method, group-based intervention, and alteration of the healthcare system. Innovative behavioral interventions that focus on young women and adolescents, target the critical periods of pregnancy and postpartum and test the integration of multiple levels of intervention to create lasting effects on ART adherence are needed.
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Mtande TK, Weijer C, Hosseinipour MC, Taljaard M, Matoga M, Goldstein CE, Nyambalo B, Rosenberg NE. Ethical issues raised by cluster randomised trials conducted in low-resource settings: identifying gaps in the Ottawa Statement through an analysis of the PURE Malawi trial. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2019; 45:388-393. [PMID: 31189724 PMCID: PMC6613743 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2019-105374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of cluster randomised trials in low-resource settings raises unique ethical issues. The Ottawa Statement on the Ethical Design and Conduct of Cluster Randomised Trials is the first international ethical guidance document specific to cluster trials, but it is unknown if it adequately addresses issues in low-resource settings. In this paper, we seek to identify any gaps in the Ottawa Statement relevant to cluster trials conducted in low-resource settings. Our method is (1) to analyse a prototypical cluster trial conducted in a low-resource setting (PURE Malawi trial) with the Ottawa Statement; (2) to identify ethical issues in the design or conduct of the trial not captured adequately and (3) to make recommendations for issues needing attention in forthcoming revisions to the Ottawa Statement Our analysis identified six ethical aspects of cluster randomised trials in low-resource settings that require further guidance. The forthcoming revision of the Ottawa Statement should provide additional guidance on these issues: (1) streamlining research ethics committee review for collaborating investigators who are affiliated with other institutions; (2) the classification of lay health workers who deliver study interventions as health providers or research participants; (3) the dilemma experienced by investigators when national standards seem to prohibit waivers of consent; (4) the timing of gatekeeper engagement, particularly when researchers face funding constraints; (5) providing ancillary care in health services or implementation trials when a routine care control arm is known to fall below national standards and (6) defining vulnerable participants needing protection in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles Weijer
- Rotman Institute of Philosophy, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- University of North Carolina Project, Lilongwe, Malawi
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Mitch Matoga
- University of North Carolina Project, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Cory E Goldstein
- Rotman Institute of Philosophy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Billy Nyambalo
- Research Department, Ministry of Health Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Nora E Rosenberg
- University of North Carolina Project, Lilongwe, Malawi
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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10
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Phiri N, Haas AD, Msukwa MT, Tenthani L, Keiser O, Tal K. "I found that I was well and strong": Women's motivations for remaining on ART under Option B+ in Malawi. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0197854. [PMID: 29874247 PMCID: PMC5991368 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0197854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Most Malawian women who start ART under Option B+ are still in care three years later, a higher than average adherence rate for life-threatening chronic disease treatments, worldwide (50%). We asked 75 Malawian on ART their motivations for remaining in treatment, and what barriers they overcame. Focus groups and interviews included 75 women on ART for 6+ months, at 12 health facilities. Four main motivations for continuing ART emerged: 1) evidence that ART improved their own and their children's health; 2) strong desire to be healthy and keep their children healthy; 3) treatment was socially supported; 4) HIV/ART counselling effectively showed benefits of ART and told women what to expect. Women surmounted the following barriers: 1) stigma; 2) health care system; 3) economic; 4) side effects. Women stayed on ART because they believed it works. Future interventions should focus on emphasizing ART's effectiveness, along with other services they provide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozgechi Phiri
- Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute for Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Baobab Health Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Andreas D. Haas
- Institute for Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Malango T. Msukwa
- Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute for Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Baobab Health Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Lyson Tenthani
- Institute for Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Baobab Health Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi
- International Training & Education Center for Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Olivia Keiser
- Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute for Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Kali Tal
- Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute for Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Institute for Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Cataldo F, Seeley J, Nkhata MJ, Mupambireyi Z, Tumwesige E, Gibb DM. She knows that she will not come back: tracing patients and new thresholds of collective surveillance in PMTCT Option B. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:76. [PMID: 29391055 PMCID: PMC5796350 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2826-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malawi, Uganda, and Zimbabwe have recently adopted a universal 'test-and-treat' approach to the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (Option B+). Amongst a largely asymptomatic population of women tested for HIV and immediately started on antiretroviral treatment (ART), a relatively high number are not retained in care; they are labelled 'defaulters' or 'lost-to-follow-up' patients. METHODS We draw on data collected as part of a study looking at ART decentralization (Lablite) to reflect on the spaces created through the instrumentalization of community health workers (CHWs) for the purpose of bringing women who default from Option B+ back into care. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with CHWs who are designated to trace Option B+ patients in Uganda, Malawi and Zimbabwe. FINDINGS Lost to follow up women give a range of reasons for not coming back to health facilities and often implicitly choose not to be traced by providing a false address at enrolment. New strategies have sought to utilize CHWs' liminal positionality - situated between the experience of living with HIV, having established local social ties, and being a caretaker - in order to track 'defaulters'. CHWs are often deployed without adequate guidance or training to protect confidentiality and respect patients' choice. CONCLUSIONS CHWs provide essential linkages between health services and patients; they embody the role of 'extension workers', a bridge between a novel health policy and 'non-compliant patients'. Option B+ offers a powerful narrative of the construction of a unilateral 'moral economy', which requires the full compliance of patients newly initiated on treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Cataldo
- Dignitas International, Medical and Research Department, P.O.Box 1071, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Janet Seeley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H9SH UK
- Medical Research Council /Uganda Virus Research Institute, Research Unit on AIDS, P.O.Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Misheck J. Nkhata
- Dignitas International, Medical and Research Department, P.O.Box 1071, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Zivai Mupambireyi
- University of Zimbabwe, P.O.Box MP167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Edward Tumwesige
- Medical Research Council /Uganda Virus Research Institute, Research Unit on AIDS, P.O.Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Diana M. Gibb
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit at University College London, 90 High Holborn WC1V 6LJ, London, UK
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12
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Vrazo AC, Firth J, Amzel A, Sedillo R, Ryan J, Phelps BR. Interventions to significantly improve service uptake and retention of HIV-positive pregnant women and HIV-exposed infants along the prevention of mother-to-child transmission continuum of care: systematic review. Trop Med Int Health 2017; 23:136-148. [PMID: 29164754 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the success of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) programmes, low uptake of services and poor retention pose a formidable challenge to achieving the elimination of vertical HIV transmission in low- and middle-income countries. This systematic review summarises interventions that demonstrate statistically significant improvements in service uptake and retention of HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women and their infants along the PMTCT cascade. METHODS Databases were systematically searched for peer-reviewed studies. Outcomes of interest included uptake of services, such as antiretroviral therapy (ART) such as initiation, early infant diagnostic testing, and retention of HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women and their infants. Interventions that led to statistically significant outcomes were included and mapped to the PMTCT cascade. An eight-item assessment tool assessed study rigour. PROSPERO ID CRD42017063816. RESULTS Of 686 citations reviewed, 11 articles met inclusion criteria. Ten studies detailed maternal outcomes and seven studies detailed infant outcomes in PMTCT programmes. Interventions to increase access to antenatal care (ANC) and ART services (n = 4) and those using lay cadres (n = 3) were most common. Other interventions included quality improvement (n = 2), mHealth (n = 1), and counselling (n = 1). One study described interventions in an Option B+ programme. Limitations included lack of HIV testing and counselling and viral load monitoring outcomes, small sample size, geographical location, and non-randomized assignment and selection of participants. CONCLUSIONS Interventions including ANC/ART integration, family-centred approaches, and the use of lay healthcare providers are demonstrably effective in increasing service uptake and retention of HIV-positive mothers and their infants in PMTCT programmes. Future studies should include control groups and assess whether interventions developed in the context of earlier 'Options' are effective in improving outcomes in Option B+ programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra C Vrazo
- Office of HIV/AIDS, United States Agency for International Development, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jacqueline Firth
- Office of HIV/AIDS, United States Agency for International Development, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Anouk Amzel
- Office of HIV/AIDS, United States Agency for International Development, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rebecca Sedillo
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Julia Ryan
- Office of HIV/AIDS, United States Agency for International Development, Washington, DC, USA
| | - B Ryan Phelps
- Office of HIV/AIDS, United States Agency for International Development, Washington, DC, USA
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13
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Abstract
Introduction: There are limited data on factors associated with retention in Option B+. We sought to explore the characteristics of women retained in Option B+ in Malawi, with a focus on the role of HIV disclosure, awareness of partner HIV status, and knowledge around the importance of Option B+ for maternal–child health. Methods: We performed a case-control study of HIV-infected women in Malawi initiated on antiretroviral therapy (ART) under Option B+. Cases were enrolled if they met criteria for default from Option B+ (out of ART for >60 days), and controls were enrolled in approximately 3:1 ratio if they were retained in care for at least 12 months. We surveyed socio-demographic characteristics, HIV disclosure and awareness of partner HIV status, self-report about receiving pre-ART education, and knowledge of Option B+. Univariate logistic regression was performed to determine factors associated with retention. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between HIV disclosure, Option B+ knowledge, and retention after adjusting for age, schooling, and travel time to clinic. Results: We enrolled 50 cases and 153 controls. Median age was 30 years (interquartile range (IQR) 25–34), and the majority (82%) initiated ART during pregnancy at a median gestational age of 24 weeks (IQR 16–28). Ninety-one per cent of the cases (39/43) who started ART during pregnancy defaulted by three months postpartum. HIV disclosure to the primary sex partner was more common among women retained in care (100% versus 78%, p < 0.001). Odds of retention were significantly higher among women with: age >25 years (odds ratio (OR) 2.44), completion of primary school (OR 3.06), awareness of partner HIV status (OR 5.20), pre-ART education (OR 6.17), higher number of correct answers to Option B+ knowledge questions (OR 1.82), and support while taking ART (OR 3.65). Pre-ART education and knowledge were significantly correlated (r = 0.43, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, awareness of partner HIV status (OR 4.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.51–10.94, p = 0.02) and Option B+ knowledge (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.15–2.23, p = 0.004) remained associated with retention. Conclusions: Interventions that address partner disclosure and strengthen pre-ART education around the benefits of ART for maternal and child health should be evaluated to improve retention in Malawi’s Option B+ programme.
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14
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The Roles of Expert Mothers Engaged in Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) Programs: A Commentary on the INSPIRE Studies in Malawi, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 75 Suppl 2:S224-S232. [PMID: 28498193 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several initiatives aiming to improve retention and adherence in Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) programs include "expert mothers" (EMs) as a central tenet of their interventions. This article compares the role of EMs in 3 implementation research studies examining approaches for improving retention in care among mothers living with HIV. METHODS We compared and synthesized qualitative data and lessons learned from 3 studies (MoMent in Nigeria, PURE in Malawi, and EPAZ in Zimbabwe) with respect to the involvement of EMs in supporting PMTCT clients. The frame of reference for the comparison is the role that EMs play in PMTCT service delivery for individuals, at the health facility, within the health system, and in the community. RESULTS EMs' role was positively perceived by PMTCT clients and health care workers, as EMs provided an expanded range of services directly benefiting clients and enabling health care workers to share their workload. Common challenges included difficulties in reaching male partners and fear of stigma. The lack of structure and standardization in EM interventions in relation to eligibility criteria, training, certification, and remuneration were identified as important barriers to EMs' role development within existing health systems. CONCLUSIONS The role of EMs within PMTCT programs continues to expand rapidly. There is a need for coordinated action to develop shared standards and principles commensurate with the new roles and additional demands placed on EMs to support PMTCT services, including EM certification, mentoring and supervision standards, standardized PMTCT-specific training curricula, and, where appropriate, agreed remuneration rates.
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15
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Viral Suppression and HIV Drug Resistance at 6 Months Among Women in Malawi's Option B+ Program: Results From the PURE Malawi Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 75 Suppl 2:S149-S155. [PMID: 28498184 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2011, Malawi launched Option B+, a program of universal antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment for pregnant and lactating women to optimize maternal health and prevent pediatric HIV infection. For optimal outcomes, women need to achieve HIVRNA suppression. We report 6-month HIVRNA suppression and HIV drug resistance in the PURE study. METHODS PURE study was a cluster-randomized controlled trial evaluating 3 strategies for promoting uptake and retention; arm 1: Standard of Care, arm 2: Facility Peer Support, and arm 3: Community Peer support. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers were enrolled and followed according to Malawi ART guidelines. Dried blood spots for HIVRNA testing were collected at 6 months. Samples with ART failure (HIVRNA ≥1000 copies/ml) had resistance testing. We calculated odds ratios for ART failure using generalized estimating equations with a logit link and binomial distribution. RESULTS We enrolled 1269 women across 21 sites in Southern and Central Malawi. Most enrolled while pregnant (86%) and were WHO stage 1 (95%). At 6 months, 950/1269 (75%) were retained; 833/950 (88%) had HIVRNA testing conducted, and 699/833 (84%) were suppressed. Among those with HIVRNA ≥1000 copies/ml with successful amplification (N = 55, 41% of all viral loads > 1000 copies/ml), confirmed HIV resistance was found in 35% (19/55), primarily to the nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor class of drugs. ART failure was associated with treatment default but not study arm, age, WHO stage, or breastfeeding status. CONCLUSIONS Virologic suppression at 6 months was <90% target, but the observed confirmed resistance rates suggest that adherence support should be the primary approach for early failure in option B+.
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16
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Hauser BM, Miller WC, Tweya H, Speight C, Mtande T, Phiri S, Ball LM, Hosseinipour MC, Hoffman IF, Rosenberg NE. Assessing Option B+ retention and infant follow-up in Lilongwe, Malawi. Int J STD AIDS 2017; 29:185-194. [PMID: 28750577 DOI: 10.1177/0956462417721658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Malawi launched Option B+, a program for all pregnant or breastfeeding HIV-positive women to begin lifelong combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), in July 2011. This study characterises a portion of the continuum of care within an antenatal setting in Lilongwe. Women testing HIV-positive and having a cART initiation record at Bwaila Antenatal Clinic from July 2013 to January 2014 were included. Using logistic regression models, we analysed relationships between maternal characteristics and return for infant testing. Among 490 HIV-positive women with a cART initiation record, 360 (73%) were retained at three months. Of these, 203 (56%) were adherent. Records of infant testing were located for 204 women (42%). Women who were not retained were less likely to have an early infant diagnosis record (aOR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.10, 0.41). Among the women retained, there was a non-significant association between maternal adherence and infant testing (OR = 1.35; 95% CI: 0.89, 2.06). Women lost at earlier continuum stages, who are at higher risk for mother-to-child-transmission, were less likely to bring infants for testing. Even with a test-and-treat program, many women did not remain in care or bring their infant for testing. Facilitating strategies to improve these measures remains an important unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake M Hauser
- 1 Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, 2331 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - William C Miller
- 2 Department of Medicine, 2331 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,3 Department of Epidemiology, 2331 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Hannock Tweya
- 4 Lighthouse Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi.,5 The International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France
| | | | - Tiwonge Mtande
- 6 156288 University of North Carolina Project , Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Sam Phiri
- 2 Department of Medicine, 2331 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,4 Lighthouse Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi.,7 Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - L M Ball
- 1 Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, 2331 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- 2 Department of Medicine, 2331 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,6 156288 University of North Carolina Project , Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Irving F Hoffman
- 2 Department of Medicine, 2331 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,6 156288 University of North Carolina Project , Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Nora E Rosenberg
- 2 Department of Medicine, 2331 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,6 156288 University of North Carolina Project , Lilongwe, Malawi
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17
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van Lettow M, Tweya H, Rosenberg NE, Trapence C, Kayoyo V, Kasende F, Kaunda B, Hosseinipour MC, Eliya M, Cataldo F, Gugsa S, Phiri S. Baseline characteristics of study sites and women enrolled in a three-arm cluster randomized controlled trial: PMTCT uptake and retention (pure) Malawi. Reprod Health 2017; 14:82. [PMID: 28693525 PMCID: PMC5504621 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-017-0343-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malawi introduced an ambitious public health program known as “Option B+” which provides all HIV-infected pregnant and breastfeeding women with lifelong combination antiretroviral therapy, regardless of WHO clinical stage or CD4 cell count. The PMTCT Uptake and REtention (PURE) study aimed at evaluating the effect of peer-support on care-seeking and retention in care. Methods/design PURE Malawi was a three-arm cluster randomized controlled trial that compared facility-based and community-based models of peer support to standard of care under Option B+ strategy. Each arm was expected to enroll a minimum of 360 women with a total minimum sample size of 1080 participants. 21 sites (clusters) were selected for inclusion in the study. This paper describes the site selection, recruitment, enrollment process and baseline characteristics of study sites and women enrolled in the trial. Results Study implementation was managed by 3 partner organizations; each responsible for 7 study sites. The trial was conducted in the South East, South West, and Central West zones of Malawi, the zones where the implementing partners operate. Study sites included 2 district hospitals, 2 mission hospitals, 2 rural hospitals, 13 health centers and 1 private clinic. Enrollment occurred from November 2013 to November 2014, over a median period of 31 weeks (range 17–51) by site. A total of 1269 HIV-infected pregnant (1094) and breastfeeding (175) women, who were eligible to initiate ART under Option B+, were enrolled. Each site reached or surpassed the minimum sample size. Comparing the number of women enrolled versus antenatal cohort reports, sites recruited a median of 90% (IQR 75–100) of eligible reported women. In the majority of sites the ratio of pregnant and lactating women enrolled in the study was similar to the ratio of reported pregnant and lactating women starting ART in the same sites. The median age of all women was 27 (IQR 22–31) years. All women have ≥20 months of possible follow-up time; 96% ≥ 2 years (24–32 months). Conclusion The PURE Malawi study showed that 3 implementing partner organizations could successfully recruit a complex cohort of pregnant and lactating women across 3 geographical zones in Malawi within a reasonable timeline. Trial registration This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov - ID Number NCT02005835. Registered 4 December, 2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique van Lettow
- Dignitas International, Zomba, Malawi. .,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Hannock Tweya
- Lighthouse Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi.,The International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France
| | - Nora E Rosenberg
- University of North Carolina Project, Lilongwe, Malawi.,Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | - Blessings Kaunda
- University of Malawi, College of Medicine, Malaria Alert Centre, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- University of North Carolina Project, Lilongwe, Malawi.,Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Michael Eliya
- Department of HIV and AIDS, Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | | | - Sam Phiri
- Lighthouse Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi.,Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, USA.,Department of Public Health, University of Malawi, College of Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Lilongwe, Malawi
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18
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Exploring the Experiences of Women and Health Care Workers in the Context of PMTCT Option B Plus in Malawi. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 74:517-522. [PMID: 28045712 PMCID: PMC5340586 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Malawi has embarked on a “test-and-treat” approach to prevent mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV, known as “Option B+,” offering all HIV-infected pregnant and breastfeeding women lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) regardless of CD4 count or clinical stage. A cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted to explore early experiences surrounding “Option B+” for patients and health care workers (HCWs) in Malawi. Methods: Study participants were purposively selected across 6 health facilities in 3 regional health zones in Malawi. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women enrolled in “Option B+” (n = 24), and focus group discussions were conducted with HCWs providing Option B+ services (n = 6 groups of 8 HCWs). Data were analyzed using a qualitative thematic coding framework. Results: Patients and HCWs identified the lack of male involvement as a barrier to retention in care and expressed concerns at the rapidity of the test-and-treat process, which makes it difficult for patients to “digest” a positive diagnosis before starting ART. Fear regarding the breach of privacy and confidentiality were also identified as contributing to loss to follow-up of women initiated under the Option B+. Disclosure remains a difficult process within families and couples. Lifelong ART was also perceived as an opportunity to plan future pregnancies. Conclusions: As “Option B+” continues to be rolled out, novel interventions to support and retain women into care must be implemented. These include providing space, time, and support to accept a diagnosis before starting ART, engaging partners and families, and addressing the need for peer support and confidentiality.
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McCarthy E, Joseph J, Foster G, Mangwiro AZ, Mwapasa V, Oyeledun B, Phiri S, Sam-Agudu NA, Essajee S. Modeling the Impact of Retention Interventions on Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV: Results From INSPIRE Studies in Malawi, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 75 Suppl 2:S233-S239. [PMID: 28498194 PMCID: PMC5432093 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Six implementation research studies in Malawi, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe tested approaches for improving retention in care among women living with HIV. We simulated the impact of their interventions on the probability of HIV transmission during pregnancy and breastfeeding. METHODS A computer-based state-transition model was developed to estimate the impact of the retention interventions. Patient-level data from the 6 studies were aggregated and analyzed, and weighted averages of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV probabilities were presented. The average MTCT probability of the more successful interventions was applied to national estimates to calculate potential infections averted if these interventions were taken to scale. RESULTS Among the total cohort of 5742 HIV-positive women, almost 80% of all infant infections are attributed to the roughly 20% of HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women not retained on antiretroviral therapy. Higher retention in the arms receiving interventions resulted in an overall lower estimated MTCT probability of 9.9% compared with 12.3% in the control arms. In the 2 studies that showed a statistically significant effect, Prevention of MTCT Uptake and Retention (PURE) and Mother Mentor (MoMent), the difference in transmission rates between intervention and control arms was 4.1% and 7.3%, respectively. Scaling up retention interventions nationally in the 3 countries could avert an average of almost 3000 infant infections annually. CONCLUSIONS Linking HIV-positive pregnant women to antiretroviral therapy and retaining them is essential for addressing the remaining gaps and challenges in HIV/AIDS care and the elimination of MTCT. At national level, even modest improvements in retention translates into large numbers of infant infections averted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth McCarthy
- Applied Analytics Team, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jessica Joseph
- Applied Analytics Team, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, MA
| | - Geoff Foster
- Ministry of Health and Child Care, Mutare, Zimbabwe
- Family AIDS Caring Trust, Mutare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Victor Mwapasa
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Sam Phiri
- Lighthouse Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Nadia A. Sam-Agudu
- International Research Center of Excellence, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
- Division of Epidemiology and Prevention, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and
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Phiri S, Tweya H, van Lettow M, Rosenberg NE, Trapence C, Kapito-Tembo A, Kaunda-Khangamwa B, Kasende F, Kayoyo V, Cataldo F, Stanley C, Gugsa S, Sampathkumar V, Schouten E, Chiwaula L, Eliya M, Chimbwandira F, Hosseinipour MC. Impact of Facility- and Community-Based Peer Support Models on Maternal Uptake and Retention in Malawi's Option B+ HIV Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission Program: A 3-Arm Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial (PURE Malawi). J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 75 Suppl 2:S140-S148. [PMID: 28498183 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many sub-Saharan African countries have adopted Option B+, a prevention of mother-to-child transmission approach providing HIV-infected pregnant and lactating women with immediate lifelong antiretroviral therapy. High maternal attrition has been observed in Option B+. Peer-based support may improve retention. METHODS A 3-arm stratified cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in Malawi to assess whether facility- and community-based peer support would improve Option B+ uptake and retention compared with standard of care (SOC). In SOC, no enhancements were made (control). In facility-based and community-based models, peers provided patient education, support groups, and patient tracing. Uptake was defined as attending a second scheduled follow-up visit. Retention was defined as being alive and in-care at 2 years without defaulting. Attrition was defined as death, default, or stopping antiretroviral therapy. Generalized estimating equations were used to estimate risk differences (RDs) in uptake. Cox proportional hazards regression with shared frailties was used to estimate hazard of attrition. RESULTS Twenty-one facilities were randomized and enrolled 1269 women: 447, 428, and 394 in facilities that implemented SOC, facility-based, and community-based peer support models, respectively. Mean age was 27 years. Uptake was higher in facility-based (86%; RD: 6%, confidence interval [CI]: -3% to 15%) and community-based (90%; RD: 9%, CI: 1% to 18%) models compared with SOC (81%). At 24 months, retention was higher in facility-based (80%; RD: 13%, CI: 1% to 26%) and community-based (83%; RD: 16%, CI: 3% to 30%) models compared with SOC (66%). CONCLUSIONS Facility- and community-based peer support interventions can benefit maternal uptake and retention in Option B+.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Phiri
- *Lighthouse Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi; †Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC; ‡Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Malawi, Malawi; §The International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Center for Operational Research, Paris, France; ‖Research Department, Dignitas International, Zomba, Malawi; ¶Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Tornoto, Canada; #University of North Carolina Project, Lilongwe, Malawi; **Malaria Alert Centre, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi; ††International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), University of Washington, Lilongwe, Malawi; ‡‡mothers2mothers, Lilongwe, Malawi; §§Management Sciences for Health, Lilongwe, Malawi; ‖‖Department of Economics, University of Malawi, Chancellor College, Zomba, Malawi; and ¶¶Department of HIV and AIDS, Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
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Haberer JE, Sabin L, Amico KR, Orrell C, Galárraga O, Tsai AC, Vreeman RC, Wilson I, Sam‐Agudu NA, Blaschke TF, Vrijens B, Mellins CA, Remien RH, Weiser SD, Lowenthal E, Stirratt MJ, Sow PS, Thomas B, Ford N, Mills E, Lester R, Nachega JB, Bwana BM, Ssewamala F, Mbuagbaw L, Munderi P, Geng E, Bangsberg DR. Improving antiretroviral therapy adherence in resource-limited settings at scale: a discussion of interventions and recommendations. J Int AIDS Soc 2017; 20:21371. [PMID: 28630651 PMCID: PMC5467606 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.1.21371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Successful population-level antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence will be necessary to realize both the clinical and prevention benefits of antiretroviral scale-up and, ultimately, the end of AIDS. Although many people living with HIV are adhering well, others struggle and most are likely to experience challenges in adherence that may threaten virologic suppression at some point during lifelong therapy. Despite the importance of ART adherence, supportive interventions have generally not been implemented at scale. The objective of this review is to summarize the recommendations of clinical, research, and public health experts for scalable ART adherence interventions in resource-limited settings. Methods: In July 2015, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation convened a meeting to discuss the most promising ART adherence interventions for use at scale in resource-limited settings. This article summarizes that discussion with recent updates. It is not a systematic review, but rather provides practical considerations for programme implementation based on evidence from individual studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and the World Health Organization Consolidated Guidelines for HIV, which include evidence from randomized controlled trials in low- and middle-income countries. Interventions are categorized broadly as education and counselling; information and communication technology-enhanced solutions; healthcare delivery restructuring; and economic incentives and social protection interventions. Each category is discussed, including descriptions of interventions, current evidence for effectiveness, and what appears promising for the near future. Approaches to intervention implementation and impact assessment are then described. Results and discussion: The evidence base is promising for currently available, effective, and scalable ART adherence interventions for resource-limited settings. Numerous interventions build on existing health care infrastructure and leverage available resources. Those most widely studied and implemented to date involve peer counselling, adherence clubs, and short message service (SMS). Many additional interventions could have an important impact on ART adherence with further development, including standardized counselling through multi-media technology, electronic dose monitoring, decentralized and differentiated models of care, and livelihood interventions. Optimal targeting and tailoring of interventions will require improved adherence measurement. Conclusions: The opportunity exists today to address and resolve many of the challenges to effective ART adherence, so that they do not limit the potential of ART to help bring about the end of AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E. Haberer
- Massachusetts General Hospital Global Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lora Sabin
- Department of Global Health, Center for Global Health and Department, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K. Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Catherine Orrell
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Alexander C. Tsai
- Chester M. Pierce, MD Division of Global Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rachel C. Vreeman
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Ira Wilson
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Nadia A. Sam‐Agudu
- Clinical Department, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
- Institute of Human Virology and Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Terrence F. Blaschke
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bernard Vrijens
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Liège, Liège, Wallonia, Belgium
- WestRock Healthcare, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Claude A. Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, NYSPI and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia; University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert H. Remien
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, NYSPI and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia; University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sheri D. Weiser
- Division of HIV, ID and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Lowenthal
- Departments of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael J. Stirratt
- Division of AIDS Research, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Papa Salif Sow
- Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Infectious diseases, University of Dakar, Dakar, Sénégal
| | | | - Nathan Ford
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Edward Mills
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard Lester
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia
| | - Jean B. Nachega
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bosco Mwebesa Bwana
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Fred Ssewamala
- Columbia University School of Social Work & School of International and Public Affairs, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lawrence Mbuagbaw
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paula Munderi
- HIV Care Research Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Elvin Geng
- Division of HIV, Infectious Disease and Global Medicine, San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David R. Bangsberg
- Oregon Health & Sciences University‐Portland State University School of Public Health, Portland, OR, USA
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Puttkammer N, Domerçant JW, Adler M, Yuhas K, Myrtil M, Young P, François K, Grand’Pierre R, Lowrance D. ART attrition and risk factors among Option B+ patients in Haiti: A retrospective cohort study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0173123. [PMID: 28264045 PMCID: PMC5338795 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In October 2012, the Haitian Ministry of Health endorsed the "Option B+" strategy to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV and achieve HIV epidemic control. The objective of this paper is to assess and identify risk factors for attrition from the national ART program among Option B+ patients in the 12 months after ART initiation. DESIGN This retrospective cohort study included patients newly initiating ART from October 2012-August 2013 at 68 ART sites covering 45% of all newly enrolled ART patients in all regions of Haiti. METHODS With data from electronic medical records, we carried out descriptive analysis of sociodemographic, clinical, and pregnancy-related correlates of ART attrition, and used a modified Poisson regression approach to estimate relative risks in a multivariable model. RESULTS There were 2,166 Option B+ patients who initiated ART, of whom 1,023 were not retained by 12 months (47.2%). One quarter (25.3%) dropped out within 3 months of ART initiation. Protective factors included older age, more advanced HIV disease progression, and any adherence counseling prior to ART initiation, while risk factors included starting ART late in gestation, starting ART within 7 days of HIV testing, and using an atypical ART regimen. DISCUSSION Our study demonstrates early ART attrition among Option B+ patients and contributes evidence on the characteristics of women who are most at risk of attrition in Haiti. Our findings highlight the importance of targeted strategies to support retention among Option B+ patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Puttkammer
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | - Michelle Adler
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Krista Yuhas
- Center for AIDS Research, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Martine Myrtil
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Paul Young
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Kesner François
- Ministry of Public Health and Population, Government of Haiti, Port au Prince, Haiti
| | - Reynold Grand’Pierre
- Ministry of Public Health and Population, Government of Haiti, Port au Prince, Haiti
| | - David Lowrance
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Port au Prince, Haiti
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Ronen K, McGrath CJ, Langat AC, Kinuthia J, Omolo D, Singa B, Katana AK, Ng’Ang’A LW, John-Stewart G. Gaps in Adolescent Engagement in Antenatal Care and Prevention of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission Services in Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 74:30-37. [PMID: 27599005 PMCID: PMC5895459 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rates of pregnancy and HIV infection are high among adolescents. However, their engagement in prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) services is poorly characterized. We compared engagement in the PMTCT cascade between adult and adolescent mothers in Kenya. METHODS We conducted a nationally representative cross-sectional survey of mother-infant pairs attending 120 maternal child health clinics selected by probability proportionate to size sampling, with a secondary survey oversampling HIV-positive mothers in 30 clinics. Antenatal care (ANC) attendance, HIV testing, and antiretroviral (ARV) use were compared between adolescent (age ≤19 years) and adult mothers using χ tests and logistic regression. RESULTS Among 2521 mothers, 278 (12.8%) were adolescents. Adolescents were less likely than adults to be employed (16.5% vs. 37.9%), married (66.1% vs. 88.3%), have intended pregnancy (40.5% vs. 58.6%), or have disclosed their HIV status (77.5% vs. 90.7%) (P < 0.01 for all). Adolescents were less likely than adults to attend ≥4 ANC visits (35.2% vs. 45.6%, P = 0.002). This effect remained significant when adjusting for employment, household crowding, pregnancy intention, gravidity, and HIV status [adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) = 0.54 (0.37 to 0.97), P = 0.001]. Among 2359 women without previous HIV testing, 96.1% received testing during pregnancy; testing levels did not differ between adolescents and adults. Among 288 HIV-positive women not on antiretroviral therapy before pregnancy, adolescents were less likely than adults to be on ARVs (65.0% vs. 85.8%, P = 0.01) or to have infants on ARVs (85.7% vs. 97.7%, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Adolescent mothers had poorer ANC attendance and uptake of ARVs for PMTCT. Targeted interventions are needed to improve retention of this vulnerable population in the PMTCT cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keshet Ronen
- Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Christine J. McGrath
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Agnes C. Langat
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Kinuthia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Danvers Omolo
- Center for Microbiology Research and Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Benson Singa
- Center for Microbiology Research and Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Lucy W. Ng’Ang’A
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Departments of Global Health, Epidemiology, Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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Takah NF, Kennedy ITR, Johnman C. Impact of approaches in improving male partner involvement in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV on the uptake of PMTCT services in sub-Saharan Africa: a protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e012224. [PMID: 27371555 PMCID: PMC4947788 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several studies have reported approaches used in improving the delivery of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV services through the involvement of male partners, but evidence from a systematic review is limited. We aim at determining the impact of male partner involvement on PMTCT in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This will be a systematic review of published literature. Interventional and observational studies on male involvement in PMTCT carried out in sub-Saharan Africa will be included irrespective of the year and language of publication. OVID Medline, Embase, PschINFO, and Cochrane database of controlled trials will be searched. After manual searching of articles, authors shall be contacted for further information. 2 authors (NFT and CJ) will independently screen potential articles for eligibility using defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tools, Jadad scale and the STROBE checklist will be used for critical appraisal, and the 2 authors will independently assess the quality of articles. Authors will independently extract data from studies using a pre-established data collection form, and any discrepancies will be sorted by a third author (TRK). Outcomes will be analysed using STATA V.12.0. The random effect model will be used to produce forest plots. The heterogeneity χ(2) statistics and I(2) will be used to assess for heterogeneity. Publication bias will be assessed using funnel plots. This protocol is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) 2015 guidelines. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION No ethical approval since included studies will be published studies that had already obtained ethical approvals. The findings will guide HIV programmes on the best approaches towards involving male partners in PMTCT with a view to improving PMTCT services in sub-Saharan Africa. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER 42016032673.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah F Takah
- Ministry of Public Health, Cameroon
- Institute of Health and Well-being, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Iain T R Kennedy
- Public Health Protection Unit, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, UK
| | - Cathy Johnman
- Institute of Health and Well-being, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Public Health Protection Unit, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, UK
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Geldsetzer P, Yapa HMN, Vaikath M, Ogbuoji O, Fox MP, Essajee SM, Negussie EK, Bärnighausen T. A systematic review of interventions to improve postpartum retention of women in PMTCT and ART care. J Int AIDS Soc 2016; 19:20679. [PMID: 27118443 PMCID: PMC4846797 DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.1.20679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The World Health Organization recommends lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV. Effective transitioning from maternal and child health to ART services, and long-term retention in ART care postpartum is crucial to the successful implementation of lifelong ART for pregnant women. This systematic review aims to determine which interventions improve (1) retention within prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) programmes after birth, (2) transitioning from PMTCT to general ART programmes in the postpartum period, and (3) retention of postpartum women in general ART programmes. METHODS We searched Medline, Embase, ISI Web of Knowledge, the regional World Health Organization databases and conference abstracts for data published between 2002 and 2015. The quality of all included studies was assessed using the GRADE criteria. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION After screening 8324 records, we identified ten studies for inclusion in this review, all of which were from sub-Saharan Africa except for one from the United Kingdom. Two randomized trials found that phone calls and/or text messages improved early (six to ten weeks) postpartum retention in PMTCT. One cluster-randomized trial and three cohort studies found an inconsistent impact of different levels of integration between antenatal care/PMTCT and ART care on postpartum retention. The inconsistent results of the four identified studies on care integration are likely due to low study quality, and heterogeneity in intervention design and outcome measures. Several randomized trials on postpartum retention in HIV care are currently under way. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the evidence base for interventions to improve postpartum retention in HIV care is weak. Nevertheless, there is some evidence that phone-based interventions can improve retention in PMTCT in the first one to three months postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Geldsetzer
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA;
| | - H Manisha N Yapa
- Africa Centre for Population Health, University of KwaZulu Natal, Mtubatuba, South Africa
| | - Maria Vaikath
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Osondu Ogbuoji
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew P Fox
- Center for Global Health & Development, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Till Bärnighausen
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Africa Centre for Population Health, University of KwaZulu Natal, Mtubatuba, South Africa
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Chiwaula LS, Chirwa GC, Cataldo F, Kapito-Tembo A, Hosseinipour MC, van Lettow M, Tweya H, Kayoyo V, Khangamwa-Kaunda B, Kasende F, Trapence C, Gugsa S, Rosenberg NE, Eliya M, Phiri S. The value of informal care in the context of option B+ in Malawi: a contingent valuation approach. BMC Health Serv Res 2016; 16:136. [PMID: 27095249 PMCID: PMC4837588 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-016-1381-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Informal care, the health care provided by the patient’s social network is important in low income settings although its monetary value is rarely estimated. The lack of estimates of the value of informal care has led to its omission in economic evaluations but this can result in incorrect decisions about cost effectiveness of an intervention. We explore the use of contingent valuation methods of willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) to estimate the value of informal care provided to HIV infected women that are accessing antiretroviral therapy (ART) under the Option B+ approach to prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV in Malawi. Methods We collected cross sectional data from 93 caregivers of women that received ART care from six health facilities in Malawi. Caregivers of women that reported for ART care on the survey day and consented to participate in the survey were included until the targeted sample size for the facility was reached. We estimated the value of informal care by using the willingness to accept (WTA) and willingness to pay (WTP) approaches. Medians were used to summarize the values and these were compared by the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results The median WTA to provide informal care in a month was US$30 and the median WTP for informal care was US$13 and the two were statistically different (p < 0.000). Median WTP was higher in the urban areas than in the rural areas (US$21 vs. US$13, p < 0.001) and for caregivers from households from higher wealth quintile than in the lower quintile (US$15 vs. US$13, p < 0.0462). Conclusion Informal caregivers place substantial value on informal care giving. In low income settings where most caregivers are not formally employed, WTP and WTA approaches can be used to value informal care. Clinical trial number NCT02005835. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12913-016-1381-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Michael Eliya
- Department of HIV/AIDS, Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
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A systematic review of interventions to improve prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission service delivery and promote retention. J Int AIDS Soc 2016; 19:20309. [PMID: 27056361 PMCID: PMC4824870 DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.1.20309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The success of prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) is dependent upon high retention of mother-infant pairs within these programmes. This is a systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions that aim to improve PMTCT service delivery and promote retention throughout the PMTCT steps. Methods Selected databases were searched for studies published in English (up to September 2015). Outcomes of interest included antiretroviral (ARV) drugs or antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation among HIV-positive pregnant and/or breastfeeding women and their infants, retention into PMTCT programs, the uptake of early infant diagnosis (EID) of HIV and infant HIV status. Risk ratios and random-effect meta-analysis were used in the analysis. Results Interventions assessed in the 34 identified studies included male partner involvement in PMTCT, peer mentoring, the use of community health workers (CHWs), mobile phone-based reminders, conditional cash transfer, training of midwives, integration of PMTCT services and enhanced referral. Five studies (two randomized) that evaluated mobile phone-based interventions showed a statistically significant increase (pooled RR 1.18; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.32, I2=83%) in uptake of EID of HIV at around six weeks postpartum. Male partner involvement in PMTCT was associated with reductions in infant HIV transmission (pooled RR 0.61; 95% CI 0.39 to 0.94, I2=0%) in four studies (one randomized). Four studies (three randomized) that were grounded on psychological interventions reported non-significant results (pooled RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.93 to 1.09, I2=69%) in increasing ARV/ART uptake among HIV-positive pregnant and/or breastfeeding women and infant HIV testing (pooled RR 1.00; 95% CI 0.94 to 1.07, I2=45%). The effect of the other interventions on the effectiveness of improving PMTCT uptake was unclear. Heterogeneity of interventions limits these findings. Conclusions Our findings indicate that mobile phone-based reminders may increase the uptake of EID of HIV. Studies on male partner involvement in PMTCT reported reductions in infant HIV transmission. Stronger evidence is needed and future studies should determine the long-term effects of these interventions in improving retention throughout the PMTCT steps.
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Same day HIV diagnosis and antiretroviral therapy initiation affects retention in Option B+ prevention of mother-to-child transmission services at antenatal care in Zomba District, Malawi. J Int AIDS Soc 2016; 19:20672. [PMID: 26976377 PMCID: PMC4789547 DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.1.20672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Data from the Option B+ prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) program in Malawi show considerable variation between health facilities in retention on antiretroviral therapy (ART). In a programmatic setting, we studied whether the “model of care,” based on the degree of integration of antenatal care (ANC), HIV testing and counselling (HTC) and ART service provision–influenced uptake of and retention on ART. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of pregnant women seeking ANC at rural primary health facilities in Zomba District, Malawi. Data were extracted from standardized national ANC registers, ART registers and ART master cards. The “model of care” of Option B+ service delivery was determined at each health facility, based on the degree of integration of ANC, HTC and ART. Full integration (Model 1) of HTC and ART initiation at ANC was compared with integration of HTC only into ANC services (Model 2) with subsequent referral to an existing ART clinic for treatment initiation. Results and discussion A total of 10,528 women were newly registered at ANC between October 2011 and March 2012 in 23 rural health facilities (12 were Model 1 and 11 Model 2). HIV status was ascertained in 8,572 (81%) women. Among 914/8,572 (9%) HIV-positive women enrolling at ANC, 101/914 (11%) were already on ART; of those not on treatment, 456/813 (56%) were started on ART. There was significantly higher ART uptake in Model 1 compared with Model 2 sites (63% vs. 51%; p=0.001), but significantly lower ART retention in Model 1 compared with Model 2 sites (79% vs. 87%; p=0.02). Multivariable analysis showed that initiation of ART on the same day as HIV diagnosis, but not model of care, was independently associated with reduced retention in the first six months (adjusted odds ratio 2.27; 95% CI: 1.34–3.85; p=0.002). Conclusions HIV diagnosis and treatment on the same day was associated with reduced retention on ART, independent of the level of PMTCT service integration at ANC.
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Dzangare J, Takarinda KC, Harries AD, Tayler-Smith K, Mhangara M, Apollo TM, Mushavi A, Chimwaza A, Sithole N, Magure T, Mpofu A, Dube F, Mugurungi O. HIV testing uptake and retention in care of HIV-infected pregnant and breastfeeding women initiated on 'Option B+' in rural Zimbabwe. Trop Med Int Health 2015; 21:202-9. [PMID: 26555353 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Zimbabwe has started to scale up Option B+ for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, but there is little published information about uptake or retention in care. This study determined the number and proportion of pregnant and lactating women in rural districts diagnosed with HIV infection and started on Option B+ along with six-month antiretroviral treatment (ART) outcomes. METHODS This was a retrospective record review of women presenting to antenatal care or maternal and child health services at 34 health facilities in Chikomba and Gutu rural districts, Zimbabwe, between January and March 2014. RESULTS A total of 2728 women presented to care of whom 2598 were eligible for HIV testing: 76% presented to antenatal care, 20% during labour and delivery and 4% while breastfeeding. Of 2097 (81%) HIV-tested women, 7% were HIV positive. Lower HIV testing uptake was found with increasing parity, late presentation to antenatal care, health centre attendance and in women tested during labour. Ninety-one per cent of the HIV-positive women were started on Option B+. Six-month ART retention in care, including transfers, was 83%. Loss to follow-up was the main cause of attrition. Increasing age and gravida status ≥2 were associated with higher six-month attrition. CONCLUSION The uptake of HIV testing and Option B+ is high in women attending antenatal and post-natal clinics in rural Zimbabwe, suggesting that the strategy is feasible for national scale-up in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Dzangare
- National AIDS and Tuberculosis Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Kudakwashe C Takarinda
- National AIDS and Tuberculosis Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe.,International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France
| | - Anthony D Harries
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France.,London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Katie Tayler-Smith
- Operational Centre Brussels, Medecins Sans Frontieres, 68 Rue de Gasperich, Luxembourg
| | - Mutsa Mhangara
- National AIDS and Tuberculosis Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Mutasa Apollo
- National AIDS and Tuberculosis Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Angela Mushavi
- National AIDS and Tuberculosis Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Anesu Chimwaza
- National AIDS and Tuberculosis Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Ngwarai Sithole
- National AIDS and Tuberculosis Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | | | - Owen Mugurungi
- National AIDS and Tuberculosis Unit, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Narasimhan M, Loutfy M, Khosla R, Bras M. Sexual and reproductive health and human rights of women living with HIV. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:20834. [PMID: 28326129 PMCID: PMC4813610 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.6.20834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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Fundamental concerns of women living with HIV around the implementation of Option B+. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:20286. [PMID: 26643459 PMCID: PMC4672458 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.6.20286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In 2011, the Global Plan towards the Elimination of New HIV Infections among Children by 2015 and Keeping Their Mothers Alive was launched to scale up efforts to comprehensively end vertical HIV transmission and support mothers living with HIV in remaining healthy. Amidst excitement around using treatment as prevention, Malawi's Ministry of Health conceived Option B+, a strategy used to prevent vertical transmission by initiating all pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV on lifelong antiretroviral therapy, irrespective of CD4 count. In 2013, for programmatic and operational reasons, the WHO officially recommended Option B+ to countries with generalized epidemics, limited access to CD4 testing, limited partner testing, long breastfeeding duration or high fertility rates. Discussion While acknowledging the opportunity to increase treatment access globally and its potential, this commentary reviews the concerns of women living with HIV about human rights, community-based support and other barriers to service uptake and retention in the Option B+ context. Option B+ intensifies many of the pre-existing challenges of HIV prevention and treatment programmes. As women seek comprehensive services to prevent vertical transmission, they can experience various human rights violations, including lack of informed consent, involuntary or coercive HIV testing, limited treatment options, termination of pregnancy or coerced sterilization and pressure to start treatment. Yet, peer and community support strategies can promote treatment readiness, uptake, adherence and lifelong retention in care; reduce stigma and discrimination; and mitigate potential violence stemming from HIV disclosure. Ensuring available and accessible quality care, offering food support and improving linkages to care could increase service uptake and retention. With the heightened focus on interventions to reach pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV, a parallel increase in vigilance to secure their health and rights is critical. Conclusion The authors conclude that real progress towards reducing vertical transmission and achieving viral load suppression can only be made by upholding the human rights of women living with HIV, investing in community-based responses, and ensuring universal access to quality healthcare. Only then will the opportunity of accessing lifelong treatment result in improving the health, dignity and lives of women living with HIV, their children and families.
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Outcomes of prevention of mother to child transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 in rural Kenya--a cohort study. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:1008. [PMID: 26433396 PMCID: PMC4592570 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2355-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Success in prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) raises the prospect of eliminating pediatric HIV infection. To achieve global elimination, however, strategies are needed to strengthen PMTCT interventions. This study aimed to determine PMTCT outcomes and identify challenges facing its successful implementation in a rural setting in Kenya. METHODS A retrospective cohort design was used. Routine demographic and clinical data for infants and mothers enrolling for PMTCT care at a rural hospital in Kenya were analysed. Cox and logistic regression were used to determine factors associated with retention and vertical transmission respectively. RESULTS Between 2006 and 2012, 1338 infants were enrolled and followed up for PMTCT care with earlier age of enrollment and improved retention observed over time. Mother to child transmission of HIV declined from 19.4 % in 2006 to 8.9 % in 2012 (non-parametric test for trend p = 0.024). From 2009 to 2012, enrolling for care after 6 months of age, adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR]: 23.3 [95 % confidence interval (CI): 8.3-65.4], presence of malnutrition ([aOR]: 2.3 [95 % CI: 1.1-5.2]) and lack of maternal use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) (aOR: 6.5 [95 % CI: 1.4-29.4]) was associated with increased risk of HIV infection. Infant's older age at enrollment, malnutrition and maternal HAART status, were also associated with drop out from care. Infants who were not actively followed up were more likely to drop out from care (adjusted Hazard Ratio: 6.6 [95 % CI: 2.9-14.6]). DISCUSSION We report a temporal increase in the proportion of infants enrolling for PMTCT care before 3 months of age, improved retention in PMTCT and a significant reduction in the proportion of infants enrolled who became HIV-infected, emphasizing the benefits of PMTCT. CONCLUSION A simple set of risk factors at enrollment can identify mother-infant pairs most at risk of infection or drop out for targeted intervention.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review provides an update on current developments with prevention, treatment and cure strategies in the field of pediatric HIV. RECENT FINDINGS/SUMMARY There has been tremendous progress in the prevention and treatment of pediatric HIV infection. With new strategies for prevention of mother-to-child transmission, we are growing ever closer towards elimination of pediatric HIV, though challenges with retention of pregnant woman and their HIV-exposed infants remain. Ongoing vigilance regarding the potential hazards of in utero ART exposure to infants continues with no significant alarms yet identified. Though cure has not been achieved, evidence of the impact of early treatment on reducing HIV-1 reservoir size with subsequent prolonged remission has enlivened efforts to rapidly identify and treat HIV-infected newborns. There is an increasing array of treatment options for pediatric patients and reassuring evidence regarding long-term complications of ART. Unfortunately, despite evidence suggesting the benefit of early treatment, timely identification and treatment of children remains a challenge. Better strategies for effective case-finding and engagement in care are urgently needed in addition to an improved understanding of how to retain HIV-positive children and adolescents on treatment. However, further emboldened by recent international commitments and robust global support, the future is hopeful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria H Kim
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Retrovirology, Houston, Texas, USA ; Baylor College of Medicine-Abbott Fund Children's Clinical Center of Excellence, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Saeed Ahmed
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Retrovirology, Houston, Texas, USA ; Baylor College of Medicine-Abbott Fund Children's Clinical Center of Excellence, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Elaine J Abrams
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York NY, USA ; College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Herce ME, Mtande T, Chimbwandira F, Mofolo I, Chingondole CK, Rosenberg NE, Lancaster KE, Kamanga E, Chinkonde J, Kumwenda W, Tegha G, Hosseinipour MC, Hoffman IF, Martinson FE, Stein E, van der Horst CM. Supporting Option B+ scale up and strengthening the prevention of mother-to-child transmission cascade in central Malawi: results from a serial cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2015; 15:328. [PMID: 26265222 PMCID: PMC4533797 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-015-1065-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We established Safeguard the Family (STF) to support Ministry of Health (MoH) scale-up of universal antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-infected pregnant and breastfeeding women (Option B+) and to strengthen the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) cascade from HIV testing and counseling (HTC) through maternal ART provision and post-delivery early infant HIV diagnosis (EID). To these ends, we implemented the following interventions in 5 districts: 1) health worker training and mentorship; 2) couples' HTC and male partner involvement; 3) women's psychosocial support groups; and 4) health and laboratory system strengthening for EID. METHODS We conducted a serial cross-sectional study using facility-level quarterly (Q) program data and individual-level infant HIV-1 DNA PCR data to evaluate STF performance on PMTCT indicators for project years (Y) 1 (April-December 2011) through 3 (January-December 2013), and compared these results to national averages. RESULTS Facility-level uptake of HTC, ART, infant nevirapine prophylaxis, and infant DNA PCR testing increased significantly from quarterly baselines of 66 % (n/N = 32,433/48,804), 23 % (n/N = 442/1,958), 1 % (n/N = 10/1,958), and 52 % (n/N = 1,385/2,644) to 87 % (n/N = 39,458/45,324), 96 % (n/N = 2,046/2,121), 100 % (n/N = 2,121/2,121), and 62 % (n/N = 1,462/2,340), respectively, by project end (all p < 0.001). Quarterly HTC, ART, and infant nevirapine prophylaxis uptake outperformed national averages over years 2-3. While transitioning EID laboratory services to MoH, STF provided first-time HIV-1 DNA PCR testing for 2,226 of 11,261 HIV-exposed infants (20 %) tested in the MoH EID program in STF districts from program inception (Y2) through Y3. Of these, 78 (3.5 %) tested HIV-positive. Among infants with complete documentation (n = 608), median age at first testing decreased from 112 days (interquartile range, IQR: 57-198) in Y2 to 76 days (IQR: 46-152) in Y3 (p < 0.001). During Y3 (only year with national data for comparison), non-significantly fewer exposed infants tested HIV-positive (3.6 %) at first testing in STF districts than nationally (4.1 %) (p = 0.4). CONCLUSIONS STF interventions, integrated within the MoH Option B+ program, achieved favorable HTC, maternal ART, infant prophylaxis, and EID services uptake, and a low proportion of infants found HIV-infected at first DNA PCR testing. Continued investments are needed to strengthen the PMTCT cascade, particularly around EID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Herce
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi. .,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd. (Bioinformatics), CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA.
| | - Tiwonge Mtande
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi.
| | - Frank Chimbwandira
- HIV Unit, Ministry of Health, Government of the Republic of Malawi, P.O. Box 30377, Lilongwe 3, Malawi.
| | - Innocent Mofolo
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi.
| | | | - Nora E Rosenberg
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi. .,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd. (Bioinformatics), CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA.
| | - Kathy E Lancaster
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd. (Bioinformatics), CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA.
| | - Esmie Kamanga
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi.
| | | | - Wiza Kumwenda
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi.
| | - Gerald Tegha
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi.
| | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi. .,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd. (Bioinformatics), CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA.
| | - Irving F Hoffman
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi. .,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd. (Bioinformatics), CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA.
| | - Francis E Martinson
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi. .,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd. (Bioinformatics), CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA.
| | - Eva Stein
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd. (Bioinformatics), CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA.
| | - Charles M van der Horst
- Tidziwe Centre, UNC Project-Malawi, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi. .,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd. (Bioinformatics), CB# 7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA.
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Khanna AS, Roberts ST, Cassels S, Ying R, John-Stewart G, Goodreau SM, Baeten JM, Murnane PM, Celum C, Barnabas RV. Estimating PMTCT's Impact on Heterosexual HIV Transmission: A Mathematical Modeling Analysis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0134271. [PMID: 26262889 PMCID: PMC4532442 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0134271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) strategies include combined short-course antiretrovirals during pregnancy (Option A), triple-drug antiretroviral treament (ART) during pregnancy and breastfeeding (Option B), or lifelong ART (Option B+). The WHO also recommends ART for HIV treatment and prevention of sexual transmission of HIV. The impact of PMTCT strategies on prevention of sexual HIV transmission of HIV is not known. We estimated the population-level impact of PMTCT interventions on heterosexual HIV transmission in southwestern Uganda and KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, two regions with different HIV prevalence and fertility rates. MATERIALS AND METHODS We constructed and validated dynamic, stochastic, network-based HIV transmission models for each region. PMTCT Options A, B, and B+ were simulated over ten years under three scenarios: 1) current ART and PMTCT coverage, 2) current ART and high PMTCT coverage, and 3) high ART and PMTCT coverage. We compared adult HIV incidence after ten years of each intervention to Option A (and current ART) at current coverage. RESULTS At current coverage, Options B and B+ reduced heterosexual HIV incidence by about 5% and 15%, respectively, in both countries. With current ART and high PMTCT coverage, Option B+ reduced HIV incidence by 35% in Uganda and 19% in South Africa, while Option B had smaller, but meaningful, reductions. The greatest reductions in HIV incidence were achieved with high ART and PMTCT coverage. In this scenario, all PMTCT strategies yielded similar results. DISCUSSION Implementation of Options B/B+ reduces adult HIV incidence, with greater effect (relative to Option A at current levels) in Uganda than South Africa. These results are likely driven by Uganda's higher fertility rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya S. Khanna
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Sarah T. Roberts
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Susan Cassels
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, United States of America
| | - Roger Ying
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Steven M. Goodreau
- Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Pamela M. Murnane
- College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ruanne V. Barnabas
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Maher L, Page K. Reducing bias in prospective observational studies of drug users: the need for upstream and downstream approaches. Addiction 2015; 110:1259-61. [PMID: 26173158 PMCID: PMC4505920 DOI: 10.1111/add.13003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Maher
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kimberly Page
- University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, USA.
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