Evaluating respondent-driven sampling as an implementation tool for universal coverage of antiretroviral studies among men who have sex with men living with HIV

Risk Compensation After Initiation of Daily Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Among Sexual and Gender Minorities in Nigeria

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use may be associated with risk compensation. We enrolled and provided PreP to sexual and gender minorities (SGM) in Abuja, Nigeria between April 2018 and May 2019. Behavioral information and samples for urogenital and anorectal Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were collected at baseline. Blood samples for PrEP assay and self-reported adherence were collected at three-monthly follow-up visits. STIs were detected using Aptima Combo2 assay. We estimated the odds ratios (ORs) of PCR-diagnosed bacterial STIs and self-reported behavioral outcomes (condomless anal intercourse [CAI] and concurrent sexual relationships) with conditional logistic regression. Of 400 SGM who initiated PrEP, 206 were eligible for analysis, and had a median age of 24 years (IQR 22-27). In multivariable analysis, participants in the PrEP period had decreased odds of CAI (adjusted OR: 0.49, 95% CI 0.28, 0.84). PrEP use was not associated with risk compensation.

Differences in neutralizing antibody sensitivities and envelope characteristics indicate distinct antigenic properties of Nigerian HIV-1 subtype G and CRF02_AG

The magnitude of the HIV-1 epidemic in Nigeria is second only to the subtype C epidemic in South Africa, yet the subtypes prevalent in Nigeria require further characterization. A panel of 50 subtype G and 18 CRF02_AG Nigerian HIV-1 pseudoviruses (PSV) was developed and envelope coreceptor usage, neutralization sensitivity and cross-clade reactivity were characterized. These PSV were neutralized by some antibodies targeting major neutralizing determinants, but potentially important differences were observed in specific sensitivities (eg. to sCD4, MPER and V2/V3 monoclonal antibodies), as well as in properties such as variable loop lengths, number of potential N-linked glycans and charge, demonstrating distinct antigenic characteristics of CRF02_AG and subtype G. There was preferential neutralization of the matched CRF/subtype when PSV from subtype G or CRF02_AG were tested using pooled plasma. These novel Nigerian PSV will be useful to study HIV-1 CRF- or subtype-specific humoral immune responses for subtype G and CRF02_AG.

Challenges in Arranging to Waive Parental Consent in HIV Prevention Studies of Adolescent Men Who have Sex with Men: The Case of HPTN 078

Including adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM) in HIV prevention and treatment studies without parental permission is vital, but has often faced barriers. We examine the case of recent Institutional Review Boards (IRB) reviews of an HIV treatment and prevention study that requested waiving parental permission at four United States sites, but received different responses from each institution. IRBs varied in whether and how they weighed parental rights against AMSMs' rights and individual and social benefits, and potential harms (e.g., if a parent disapproves of the adolescents' sexual behavior). One IRB "tabled" the decision to receive advice from the university Office of General Counsel (OGC), despite state laws allowing minors to consent to HIV testing and treatment without parental permission. Another IRB consulted the university's Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), which thought the waiver was inconsistent with state law, which discusses "venereal disease," but not HIV. University attorneys may have competing priorities, however, and thus interpret relevant laws differently. This case raises critical concerns, highlighting needs for advocates for AMSM, researchers, IRBs and others at institutional, governmental, and community levels to educate policymakers, public health departments, IRB chairs, members, and staff, OGCs and CCOs about these issues.

Respondent-driven sampling is more efficient than facility-based strategies at identifying undiagnosed people who inject drugs living with HIV in India

INTRODUCTION

Injection drug use drives HIV epidemics in many low-resource settings, yet many people who inject drugs (PWID) living with HIV are not diagnosed. We assessed the ability of respondent-driven sampling (RDS) - which uses peer network connections - to identify undiagnosed PWID living with HIV compared to a facility-based strategy in India.

METHODS

In six Indian cities from 2014 to 2017, integrated care centers (ICCs) provided HIV testing. From 2016 to 2017, RDS samples of PWID in these same cities were conducted. Using biometric matching, characteristics associated with identification by RDS only and both RDS and ICC, compared to ICC only were explored. Undiagnosed individuals tested positive and did not report a prior diagnosis. The number needed to recruit (NNR) (average number recruited to find one undiagnosed PWID living with HIV) and the identification rate (average number undiagnosed PWID identified per week) assessed the efficiency of RDS vs. ICCs.

RESULTS

There were 10,759 ICC clients and 6012 RDS participants; 40% of RDS participants were also ICC clients resulting in 14,397 unduplicated PWID. PWID identified by RDS vs. ICC only were more likely to be male (adjusted odds ratios [aOR] RDS only: 6.8, both: 2.7) and living with HIV but undiagnosed (aOR RDS only: 2.5, both: 1.5). Overall, the RDS NNR was 11 and the ICC NNR was 26. The RDS identification rate (18.6/week) was faster than the ICC identification rate (2.7/week) overall and in all cities.

CONCLUSIONS

RDS required screening fewer PWID and more rapidly identified undiagnosed PWID living with HIV as compared to ICCs.

Food and Water Insecurity in Sexual and Gender Minority Groups Living With HIV in Lagos, Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Food and water insecurity are associated with poor health outcomes that may be exacerbated by social marginalization and barriers to health care experienced by sexual and gender minorities (SGM) in resource-limited settings. We explored factors associated with food and water insecurity in SGM with HIV.

SETTING

A longitudinal study of 357 men who have sex with men, transgender women, and other gender-identifying people in Lagos, Nigeria.

METHODS

Laboratory testing, interviews, food and water assessments, and anthropometry were performed quarterly. Robust Poisson regression with generalized estimating equations was used to evaluate factors potentially associated with food and water insecurity.

RESULTS

From 2014 to 2018, 357 SGM with HIV completed either the food or water assessments. At baseline, participants identified as cisgender men who have sex with men 265 (74.2%), transgender women 63 (17.7%), or as nonbinary/other gender 29 (8.1%). Food insecurity and water insecurity were reported by 63/344(18.3%) and 113/357(31.7%), respectively, at any visit. Food and water insecurity each decreased with ongoing study participation. Food insecurity was associated with nonpartnered relationship status, CD4 count <500 cells/mm 3 , and lack of access to piped water. Water insecurity was associated with age 25 years or older, living with a man, transactional sex, and food insecurity.

CONCLUSIONS

Food and water insecurity were common among SGM in Nigeria and decreased with continued study participation, suggesting amenability to intervention when SGM are successfully engaged in care. Targeted interventions to support food and water security may improve HIV-related outcomes, such as CD4 count.

Depression and Sexual Stigma Are Associated With Cardiometabolic Risk Among Sexual and Gender Minorities Living With HIV in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

People living with HIV are vulnerable to cardiometabolic diseases. We assessed the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors (CMRF) and associations with sexual stigma and depression among sexual and gender minorities (SGM) in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria.

METHODS

The TRUST/RV368 study enrolled SGM between March 2013 and February 2020. Participants were assessed for depression, sexual stigma, and CMRF. Robust multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratio (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations of depression, sexual stigma, and other factors with increasing numbers of CMRF.

RESULTS

Among 761 SGM, the mean age was 25.0 ± 6.0 years; 580 (76%) identified as cisgender men, 641 (84%) had ≥1 CMRF, 355 (47%) had mild-severe depression, and 405 (53%) reported moderate-high sexual stigma. Compared with individuals without depression, those with mild (aOR 8.28; 95% CI: 4.18 to 16.40) or moderate-severe depression (aOR 41.69; 95% CI: 9.60 to 181.04) were more likely to have 3-5 CMRF. Individuals with medium (aOR 3.17; 95% CI: 1.79 to 5.61) and high sexual stigma (aOR 14.42; 95% CI: 2.88 to 72.29) compared with those with low sexual stigma were more likely to have 3-5 CMRF. Participants age 25-34 years were less likely to have 3-5 CMRF (aOR 0.41; 95% CI: 0.23 to 0.73) compared with participants age younger than 25 years.

CONCLUSION

CMRF increased with severity of depression and sexual stigma, potentially predisposing SGM living with HIV to cardiometabolic diseases. Integrating interventions that address depression and sexual stigma in HIV care programs for SGM may improve cardiometabolic outcomes.

Prevalence and factors associated with anogenital warts among sexual and gender minorities attending a trusted community health center in Lagos, Nigeria

Anogenital warts caused by human papillomavirus are common in sexual and gender minorities (SGM). The prevalence of, and factors associated with warts were described for SGM with a high burden of HIV in Nigeria. Individuals who reported anal sex with men were enrolled in the TRUST/RV368 cohort. Participants completed an interviewer-led survey, provided biological samples, and had a physical examination. Specific to the Lagos site, clinic staff offered standardized warts treatment services. RDS-weighted multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for factors potentially associated with anogenital warts. Of 672 enrolled SGM, 478 (71%) engaged in warts services and had complete data. The median age (interquartile range) was 22 (20-26) years, 272 (52%) initiated sex before age 18, and 347 (79%) were cisgender men. Multiple male sexual partners in the previous year were reported by 448 (90%) of the participants, and 342 (66%) were living with HIV. Warts were diagnosed in 252 (54%), including anal warts in 234 (43%) and penile warts in 44 (8%); 26 (5%) had both anal and penile warts. Factors independently associated with warts included HIV (AOR:2.97; CI:1.44-6.14), engaging in receptive anal sex (AOR:3.49; CI:1.25-9.75), having multiple male sexual partners (AOR:7.26; CI:2.11-24.87), age at sexual debut (AOR:0.53; CI:0.28-0.98), and non-binary gender identity (AOR:0.20; CI:0.05-0.71). Warts were common among SGM in Nigeria, particularly those living with HIV. Administration of HPV vaccination before sexual debut or as a catch-up vaccination may prevent HPV-associated complications.

Associations of gender identity with sexual behaviours, social stigma and sexually transmitted infections among adults who have sex with men in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria

Introduction

Sexual and gender minority populations are disproportionately affected by the global syndemic of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We hypothesized that transgender women (TGW) and non‐binary individuals in Nigeria have more STIs than cis‐gender men who have sex with men (cis‐MSM), and that experiences of stigma and sexual practices differ between these three groups.

Methods

From 2013 to 2020, TRUST/RV368 enrolled adults assigned male sex at birth who reported anal sex with men in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. Participants were tested for STIs and completed questionnaires about sexual behaviours and social stigma every 3 months. Participants were categorized as cis‐MSM, TGW or non‐binary/other based on self‐reported gender identity. Gender group comparisons were made of HIV, gonorrhoea and chlamydia prevalence and incidence; stigma indicators; and condom use during anal sex.

Results

Among 2795 participants, there were 2260 (80.8%) cis‐MSM, 284 (10.2%) TGW and 251 (9.0%) non‐binary/other individuals with median age of 23 years (interquartile range 20–27). HIV prevalence among cis‐MSM, TGW and non‐binary/other participants was 40.8%, 51.5% and 47.6%, respectively (p = 0.002). HIV incidence was 8.7 cases per 100 person‐years (PY) (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.9–10.8), 13.1 cases/100 PY (95% CI 6.5–23.4) and 17.6 cases/100 PY (95% CI 9.8–29.0, p = 0.025), respectively. Anorectal gonorrhoea incidence was lower in cis‐MSM than TGW (22.2 [95% CI 19.6–25.0] vs. 35.9 [95% CI 27.3–46.3]). TGW were more likely than cis‐MSM to report being affected by stigma, including assault (47.2% vs. 32.3%), fear of walking around (32.4% vs. 19.2%) and healthcare avoidance (25.0% vs. 19.1%; all p < 0.05). TGW were more likely to report always using condoms than non‐binary/other individuals (35.3% vs. 26.2%, p = 0.041) during receptive anal sex.

Conclusions

Sexual and gender minorities in Nigeria have heterogeneous sexual behaviours and experiences of social stigma that may influence the vulnerability to HIV and other STIs. There is a need for tailored interventions that acknowledge and are informed by gender. Further research is needed, particularly among understudied non‐binary individuals, to better understand disparities and inform tailored interventions to improve outcomes among these communities.

HIV Prevention Trials Network 078: High Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Antibodies Among Urban US Men Who Have Sex With Men, Independent of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Status

BACKGROUND

Sexual transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is uncommon, yet documented among men who have sex with men (MSM), primarily among those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

METHODS

In the HIV Prevention Trials Network 078 study (HPTN 078), which assessed an integrated strategy to achieve HIV viral suppression, 1305 MSM were screened across 4 geographically diverse US cities. At screening, demographic/behavioral/psychosocial questionnaires were completed, along with HIV and HCV testing. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate associations with HCV antibody positivity.

RESULTS

Among the 1287 (99%) of the MSM with HCV antibody results, the median age was 41, 69% were black, 85% had a high school education or more, 35% were employed, 70% had HIV, and 21% had undergone substance use counseling. The median lifetime number of male sexual partners was 17 (interquartile range, 6-50), and 246 (19%) were HCV antibody positive. HCV antibody positivity was high in MSM with HIV (20%) and MSM without HIV (17%) (P = .12) and was higher in those receiving substance use counseling (36%) than in those who had not (15%) (P ≤ .01). Substance use counseling (odds ratio, 2.51; 95% confidence interval, 1.80-3.51) and unstable housing (2.16; 1.40-3.33) were associated with HCV antibody positivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly 1 in 5 MSM screened for HPTN 078 have been infected with HCV. The prevalence is high regardless of HIV status and is high even in those who did not undergo substance use counseling. In HIV burden networks, high HCV infection prevalence may occur in MSM without HIV. As implementation of preexposure prophylaxis expands and condom use declines, routine HCV counseling and screening among MSM are important.

Individual and partnership characteristics associated with consistent condom use in a cohort of cisgender men who have sex with men and transgender women in Nigeria

Background

This study reports on the individual and partnership characteristics that influence consistent condom use in cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) attending trusted community centers that provide HIV prevention and treatment services in Nigeria.

Methods

Adults assigned male at birth who reported anal sex with male partners who enrolled between March 2013–2019 and had information about at least one male sexual partner were included in these analyses. At enrollment and follow-up visits every 3 months for up to 18 months, participants were administered detailed questionnaires that collected information about demographics, sexual practices, HIV risk behaviors, and characteristics and behaviors of their partners in the previous year (at enrollment) or the preceding 3 to 6-months (at follow-up visits). Logistic regression models with generalized estimating equations were used to assess the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of individual, partner, and partnership characteristics associated with consistent condom use (CCU). A participant was defined as consistently using condom if they reported always using condoms all the time they had insertive, receptive or both types of anal sex with a male partner.

Results

At the individual level, CCU was positively associated with higher education, disclosure of key population status to a healthcare worker and negatively associated with poor access to condoms. At the partner and partnership level, CCU was associated with partners with higher education (aOR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.07–1.72), casual relationships (aOR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.11–1.34) and relationships in which partners encouraged the participant to use condoms with other partners (aOR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.02–1.28). Relationships in which the partner was married to a woman and/or the partner’s HIV status positive or unknown were negatively associated with CCU.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that individuals in relationships where partners were more open and encouraged safer sex were more likely to consistently use condoms. HIV prevention programs should consider leveraging communication to sexual partners to encourage condom use as this may support condom use with other sexual partners. Given sustained and growing HIV and STI epidemics among MSM and TGW, even with pre-exposure prophylaxis scale-up, it is crucial to continue to study optimal implementation strategies to increase condom use.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-11275-w.

Disclosure of Same-Sex Sexual Practices to Family and Healthcare Providers by Men Who Have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in Nigeria

Disclosure of same-sex sexual practices by men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) may facilitate appropriate healthcare engagement, including risk assessment for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and negotiation of condom use with partners. However, disclosure may also generate stigma. In these cross-sectional analyses, MSM and TGW were categorized based on self-report of disclosure to family members and healthcare providers (HCP) at enrollment into the TRUST/RV368 study of comprehensive HIV and STI care programs in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. Multivariable Poisson regression models with robust error variance were used to estimate relative risk of disclosure with 95% confidence intervals. Pearson's chi-squared test was used to compare condom use and stigma indicators by disclosure status. Of 2557 participants who answered baseline questions about disclosure, 384 (15.0%) had ever disclosed to a family member and 733 (28.7%) to HCP, including 192 (7.5%) who disclosed to both. Higher education, prevalent HIV infections, and residence in Lagos were each associated with increased likelihood of disclosure to family and HCP. Older participants were more likely to disclose to HCP but not family. Participants who made a disclosure to family or HCP were more likely to report condom use during anal sex as well as perceived and experienced stigma that included healthcare avoidance, blackmail, assault, and sexual violence as compared to participants who had not disclosed. Improved disclosure practices within safe spaces may enhance engagement of MSM and TGW in healthcare and HIV prevention services.

Reaching a Different Population of MSM in West Africa With the Integration of PrEP Into a Comprehensive Prevention Package (CohMSM-PrEP ANRS 12369-Expertise France)

BACKGROUND

In West Africa, few HIV services target men who have sex with men (MSM). In 2015, the interventional cohort CohMSM started offering a community-based prevention package for MSM. Participants expressed interest in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and their eligibility was demonstrated. In 2017, PrEP was added to services already offered as part of a new program, CohMSM-PrEP, which recruited CohMSM participants and new participants. We aimed to determine whether the introduction of PrEP as an additional prevention tool influenced the type of participant signing up for CohMSM-PrEP.

METHODS

CohMSM-PrEP recruited HIV-negative MSM in community-based clinics in Mali, Cote d'Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Togo. Quarterly follow-up included free clinical examinations, PrEP, HIV/sexually transmitted infection screening, peer education, condoms, and lubricants. Sociobehavioral data were collected every 3 months using face-to-face questionnaires. Our outcome was participant type: new participants vs CohMSM participants. Logistic regression was performed to identify the factors associated with being a new participant.

RESULTS

Of the 524 MSM included in CohMSM-PrEP, 41% were new participants. After adjustment, multivariate analysis showed they were more socioeconomically disadvantaged with financial insecurity, social isolation-including isolation within the MSM community-and riskier sexual practices.

CONCLUSION

The introduction of PrEP as an additional prevention tool and the use of peer-based outreach services over time influenced the type of participant signing up for a community-based HIV prevention cohort in West Africa. Adding these elements to existing interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa could be the key to reaching MSM marginalized from HIV prevention and care programs.

Optimizing respondent-driven sampling to find undiagnosed HIV-infected people who inject drugs

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated whether identification of undiagnosed HIV-infected people who inject drugs (PWID) via respondent-driven sampling (RDS) can be enhanced through a precision RDS (pRDS) approach.

DESIGN/METHODS

First, using prior RDS data from PWID in India, we built a prediction algorithm for recruiting undiagnosed HIV-infected PWID. pRDS was tested in Morinda, Punjab where participants were randomly assigned to standard or pRDS. In the standard RDS approach, all participants received two recruitment coupons. For pRDS, the algorithm determined an individual's probability of recruiting an undiagnosed PWID, and individuals received either two (low probability) or five (high probability) coupons. Efficiency in identifying undiagnosed HIV-infected PWID for the RDS approaches was evaluated in two ways: the number needed to recruit (NNR) and identification rate/week.

RESULTS

Predictors of recruiting undiagnosed PWID included HIV/HCV infection, network size, syringe services utilization, and injection environment. 1631 PWID were recruited in Morinda. From the standard RDS approach, 615 were recruited, including 39 undiagnosed; from pRDS, 1012 were recruited, including 77 undiagnosed. In pRDS, those with higher predicted probability were more likely to recruit others with HIV/HCV co-infection, undiagnosed and viremic HIV, and who utilized services. pRDS had a significantly higher identification rate of undiagnosed PWID (1.5/week) compared with the standard (0.8/week). The NNR for pRDS (13.1) was not significantly lower than the standard approach (15.8).

CONCLUSION

pRDS identified twice as many undiagnosed and viremic PWID significantly faster than the standard approach. Leveraging RDS or similar network-based strategies should be considered alongside other strategies to ensure meeting UNAIDS targets.

Factors Associated With Condom Failure in a Longitudinal Cohort of Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Effective condom use is a critical intervention to limit the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, particularly among individuals in high-risk networks who practice anal sex. We characterized condom failures in cisgender men who have sex with men and transgender women in Nigeria.

SETTING

The TRUST/RV368 cohort provided condoms, compatible lubricants, and safer sex education to men who have sex with men and transgender women at community-engaged health centers in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria.

METHODS

Participants completed structured interview questions about condom usage and failure every 3-6 months. Robust Poisson regression models with generalized estimating equations were used to estimate relative risks and 95% confidence intervals for prespecified factors potentially associated with condom failure in the previous month.

RESULTS

From September 2013 to September 2019, 2221 of 2737 participants (81.1%) reported condom use for anal sex with a male partner in the last month, and 305 (13.7%) reported condom failure during this time. Multivariate analyses demonstrated an increased risk of condom failure at postenrollment visits, as well as in participants who reported frequent Internet use, 2 or more casual sexual partners, and 2-4 main sexual partners. Those who cohabited with a woman had reduced risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Condom failure was common in this population despite freely available condoms, compatible lubrication, and education. Increased risk of condom failure over time could reflect message fatigue a ceiling for effective condom use, or new uptake of condoms by inexperienced users.

Transmitted, pre-treatment and acquired antiretroviral drug resistance among men who have sex with men and transgender women living with HIV in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Across sub-Saharan Africa, men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) have disproportionately poor HIV treatment outcomes. Stigma and criminalization create barriers to health-care engagement and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), potentially promoting the development of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR). We evaluated transmitted, pre-treatment and acquired HIVDR among MSM and TGW in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria.

METHODS

Adults with HIV RNA ≥1,000 copies/ml in the TRUST/RV368 cohort, including incident cases diagnosed via 3-monthly screening, underwent HIVDR testing using the Sanger sequencing method. Major mutations conferring resistance to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) and protease inhibitors (PIs) were identified from the 2017 IAS-USA list. World Health Organization surveillance drug resistance mutations (SDRMs) were identified in ART-naive participants.

RESULTS

From March 2013 to June 2017, 415 participants with median age 24 (interquartile range [IQR] 21-27) years, CD4⁺ T-cell count 370 (IQR 272-502) cells/mm³, and HIV RNA 4.73 (IQR 4.26-5.15) log₁₀ copies/ml underwent HIVDR testing. SDRMs were observed in 36 of 373 ART-naive participants (9.7%, 95% confidence interval [95% CI 6.8, 13.1%]), including 8 of 39 incident cases (20.5%, [95% CI] 9.3, 36.5%). Among 42 ART-experienced participants, NNRTI resistance was detected in 18 (42.9%, 95% CI 27.7, 59.0%) and NRTI resistance in 10 (23.8%, 95% CI 12.0, 39.4%). No PI resistance was detected.

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence of transmitted and acquired drug resistance among Nigerian MSM and TGW living with HIV suggests the need for programmatic solutions to improve uninterrupted access to ART and timely switch to second-line regimens in cases of viral failure.

Retention of a cohort of men who have sex with men and transgender women at risk for and living with HIV in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria: a longitudinal analysis

INTRODUCTION

Men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender women (TGW), face specific obstacles to retention in care, particularly in settings with stigmatization such as sub-Saharan Africa. We evaluated the impacts of HIV status and other factors on loss-to-follow-up (LTFU) and visit adherence among MSM and TGW in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria.

METHODS

TRUST/RV368 is an open cohort that provides comprehensive and integrated prevention and treatment services for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at community venues supportive of sexual and gender minorities. Recruitment began in March 2013 and participants were followed every three months for up to 18 months. LTFU was defined as not presenting for an expected visit in the past 180 days. Visit adherence was calculated as a rate of completed visits adjusted by the number of three-month intervals elapsed since enrolment. HIV and other factors predictive of LTFU and visit adherence were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards and Poisson regression models, respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 1447 participants who completed enrolment evaluations over two visits as of November 2018 were included in these analyses. Their median age was 24 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 21 to 28) and 53% (n = 766) were living with HIV. LTFU occurred in 56% (n = 808) and visit adherence was 0.62 (95% confidence interval: 0.61 to 0.64) visits per three-month interval. Participants at risk and living with HIV had median follow-up times of 12 months (IQR: 6 to 22), and 21 months (IQR: 12 to 30), respectively (p < 0.01). After controlling for other factors, LTFU was less common among participants living with HIV or other STIs and more common among those who did not own a cell phone, sold sex and had never undergone HIV testing prior to enrolment. These factors had parallel associations with visit adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

Retention was suboptimal in Nigerian clinics designed to serve MSM and TGW. Particularly high LTFU and low visit adherence among participants at risk for HIV could complicate deployment of HIV prevention interventions. Marketing the benefits of testing, improving access to cell phones and nurturing more trust with clients may improve retention among marginalized communities in Nigeria.

Peer Recruitment Strategies for Female Sex Workers Not Engaged in HIV Prevention and Treatment Services in Côte d'Ivoire: Program Data Analysis

Background

In the context of the mostly generalized HIV epidemic in Côte d’Ivoire, key populations bear a higher burden of HIV than that borne by the general reproductive-aged population. Mathematical models have demonstrated the significant potential impact and cost-effectiveness of improving the coverage of HIV prevention and treatment services for key populations in Côte d’Ivoire. However, in 2019, coverage of these services remained limited by multiple intersecting stigmas affecting key populations, necessitating the study of innovative implementation strategies to better meet the needs of those most marginalized. Here, we leverage programmatic data to compare the effectiveness of the enhanced and traditional peer outreach approaches in reaching and providing community HIV testing to female sex workers not readily engaged in HIV prevention and treatment services in Côte d’Ivoire.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of female sex workers reached by the LINKAGES project in Côte d’Ivoire with enhanced peer outreach and traditional peer outreach and to compare HIV-related outcomes between the women reached by both strategies.

Methods

Deidentified routine programmatic data collected as part of LINKAGES Côte d’Ivoire between October 2017 and April 2018 were used in these analyses. Demographic characteristics and HIV indicators including HIV testing history, HIV case-finding, linkage to HIV treatment, and treatment initiation were assessed using descriptive statistics. Differences in these indicators were compared by outreach strategy using Pearson chi-square tests.

Results

There were 9761 women reached with enhanced peer outreach and routine peer outreach included in these analyses. The overall case-finding rate in the sample was 7.8% (698/8851). Compared with women reached by routine outreach, those reached by enhanced peer outreach were more likely to have previously been tested for HIV (enhanced: 1695/2509, 67.6%; routine: 4302/7252, 60.0%; χ²₁=43.8; P=.001). The enhanced peer outreach approach was associated with a higher HIV case-finding rate (enhanced: 269/2507 10.7%; routine: 429/6344, 6.8%; χ²₁=32.3; P=.001), higher proportion of linkage to treatment (enhanced: 258/269, 95.9%; routine: 306/429, 71.3%; χ²₁=64.4; P=.001), and higher proportion of treatment initiation (enhanced: 212/269, 78.8%; routine: 315/429, 73.3%; χ²₁=2.6; P=.11). Women reached by both approaches were categorized as high risk for HIV-related behaviors such as condomless sex and number of sex acts in the previous week.

Conclusions

These analyses suggest that the novel peer-referral strategy, the enhanced peer outreach approach, was effective in reaching female sex workeres in Côte d’Ivoire with demonstrated acquisition risks for HIV and who had not been effectively engaged by routine outreach approaches. Scaling up novel strategies such as enhanced peer outreach in the context of differentiated service models may be needed to optimize HIV prevention and treatment outcomes for key populations in Côte d’Ivoire.

Association of age with healthcare needs and engagement among Nigerian men who have sex with men and transgender women: cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses from an observational cohort

INTRODUCTION

Young men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) face stigmas that hinder access to healthcare. The aim of the study was to understand age-related determinants of healthcare needs and engagement among MSM and TGW.

METHODS

The TRUST/RV368 cohort provides integrated prevention and treatment services for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) tailored to the needs of sexual and gender minorities. MSM and TGW aged ≥16 years in Abuja and ≥18 years Lagos, Nigeria, completed standardized behavioural questionnaires and were tested for HIV, Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) every three months for up to 18 months. Logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for associations of age and other factors with outcomes of interest upon enrolment, including HIV care continuum steps - HIV testing, ART initiation and viral suppression <1000 copies/mL. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for associations with incident infections.

RESULTS

Between March 2013 and February 2019, 2123 participants were enrolled with median age 23 (interquartile range 21 to 27) years. Of 1745 tested, 865 (49.6%) were living with HIV. HIV incidence was 11.6/100 person-years [PY], including 23.1/100PY (95% CI 15.5 to 33.1) among participants aged 16 to 19 years and 23.8/100 PY (95% CI 13.6 to 39.1) among TGW. Compared to participants aged ≥25 years, those aged 16 to 19 years had decreased odds of prior HIV testing (aOR 0.40 [95% CI 0.11 to 0.92]), disclosing same-sex sexual practices to healthcare workers (aOR 0.53 [95% CI 0.36 to 0.77]) and receiving HIV prevention information (aOR 0.60 [95% CI 0.41 to 0.87]). They had increased odds of avoiding healthcare (aOR 1.94 [95% CI 1.3 to 2.83]) and engaging in transactional sex (aOR 2.76 [95% CI 1.92 to 3.71]). Age 16 to 19 years was independently associated with increased incidence of HIV (aHR 4.09 [95% CI 2.33 to 7.49]), NG (aHR 3.91 [95% CI 1.90 to 8.11]) and CT (aHR 2.74 [95% CI 1.48 to 5.81]).

CONCLUSIONS

Young MSM and TGW demonstrated decreased healthcare engagement and higher incidence of HIV and other STIs as compared to older participants in this Nigerian cohort. Interventions to address unique obstacles to healthcare engagement by adolescents and young adults are needed to curb the spread of HIV and other STIs among MSM and TGW in Nigeria.

Oral sex practices among men who have sex with men and transgender women at risk for and living with HIV in Nigeria

Background

Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) are at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including those of the oropharynx. We estimated the prevalence and factors associated with oral sex practices and characterized oropharyngeal STIs among a cohort of MSM and TGW in Nigeria.

Methods

From 2013 to 2018, TRUST/RV368 recruited MSM and TGW into HIV/STI diagnosis and treatment at community-based clinics in Nigeria. Participants who completed HIV testing and oral sex questions at enrollment were selected. Cross-sectional analyses with bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Oropharyngeal swab testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) began in 2014 and for those with diagnostic results at enrollment, the unadjusted association of oral sex practices with oropharyngeal STIs was conducted.

Results

A total of 1342 participants had a median age of 25 years (interquartile range: 22–29), 58% were living with HIV, and 69% reported oral sex practices. Factors associated with increased odds of engaging in oral sex included living with HIV (adjusted [a]OR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–1.8), self-identifying as a woman (aOR:1.8, 95% CI: 1.1–2.8), mobile phone ownership (aOR:2.3, 95% CI: 1.3–3.9), receptive anal sex (aOR:1.7, 95% CI:1.3–2.3) and multiple male sexual partners (2 to 4 vs. ≤1, aOR:1.5, 95% CI: 1.0–2.2; 5+ vs ≤1, aOR:2.9, 95% CI:1.9–4.3). Oropharyngeal STI prevalence was 7% (52/752) and higher among those who engaged in oral sex compared to those who did not (unadjusted OR: 2.5, 95% CI:1.2–5.3).

Conclusions

Oral sex was common and associated with an increased odds of oropharyngeal STIs among MSM and TGW from Nigeria. In the absence of screening and treatment guidelines, condoms continue to be the mainstay for oral STI prevention. A pre-exposure prophylaxis for bacterial STIs would complement current prevention strategies to curb transmission.

HIV status disclosure by Nigerian men who have sex with men and transgender women living with HIV: a cross-sectional analysis at enrollment into an observational cohort

Background

Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) are disproportionately impacted by HIV and may face barriers to HIV status disclosure with negative ramifications for HIV prevention and care. We evaluated HIV status disclosure to sexual partners, HIV treatment outcomes, and stigma patterns of MSM and TGW in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods

Previously-diagnosed MSM and TGW living with HIV who enrolled in the TRUST/RV368 cohort from March 2013 to August 2018 were asked, “Have you told your (male/female) sexual partners (MSP/FSP) that you are living with HIV?” In separate analyses, robust Poisson regression models were used to estimate risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for characteristics associated with HIV status disclosure to MSP and FSP. Self-reported stigma indicators were compared between groups.

Results

Of 493 participants living with HIV, 153 (31.0%) had disclosed their HIV status to some or all MSP since being diagnosed. Among 222 with FSP, 34 (15.3%) had disclosed to some or all FSP. Factors independently associated with disclosure to MSP included living in Lagos (RR 1.58 [95% CI 1.14–2.20]) and having viral load < 50 copies/mL (RR 1.67 [95% CI 1.24–2.25]). Disclosure to FSP was more common among participants who were working in entertainment industries (RR 6.25 [95% CI 1.06–36.84]) or as drivers/laborers (RR 6.66 [95% CI 1.10–40.36], as compared to unemployed) and also among those married/cohabiting (RR 3.95 [95% CI 1.97–7.91], as compared to single) and prescribed ART (RR 2.27 [95% CI 1.07–4.83]). No differences in self-reported stigma indicators were observed by disclosure status to MSP but disclosure to FSP was associated with a lower likelihood of ever having been assaulted (26.5% versus 45.2%, p = 0.042).

Conclusions

HIV status disclosure to sexual partners was uncommon among Nigerian MSM and TGW living with HIV but was associated with improved HIV care outcomes. Disclosure was not associated with substantially increased experiences of stigma. Strategies to encourage HIV status disclosure may improve HIV management outcomes in these highly-marginalized populations with a high burden of HIV infection.

Implementation of and Early Outcomes From Anal Cancer Screening at a Community-Engaged Health Care Facility Providing Care to Nigerian Men Who Have Sex With Men

PURPOSE

Anal cancer risk is substantially higher among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) as compared with other reproductive-age adults, but screening is rare across sub-Saharan Africa. We report the use of high-resolution anoscopy (HRA) as a first-line screening tool and the resulting early outcomes among MSM in Abuja, Nigeria.

METHODS

From August 2016 to August 2017, 424 MSM enrolled in an anal cancer screening substudy of TRUST/RV368, a combined HIV prevention and treatment cohort. HRA-directed biopsies were diagnosed by histology, and ablative treatment was offered for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). HRA proficiency was assessed by evaluating the detection of squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL) over time and the proportion biopsied. Prevalence estimates of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and HSIL with 95% CIs were calculated. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify those at the highest risk of SIL.

RESULTS

Median age was 25 years (interquartile range [IQR], 22-29), median time since sexual debut was 8 years (IQR, 4-12), and 59% (95% CI, 54.2% to 63.6%) were HIV infected. Rate of detection of any SIL stabilized after 200 screenings, and less than 20% had two or more biopsies. Preliminary prevalence estimates of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and HSIL were 50.0% (95% CI, 44.7% to 55.3%) and 6.3% (95% CI, 4.0% to 9.3%). HIV infection, at least 8 years since anal coital debut, concurrency, and external warts were independently statistically associated with SIL.

CONCLUSION

Proficiency with HRA increased with experience over time. However, HSIL detection rates were low, potentially affected by obstructed views from internal warts and low biopsy rates, highlighting the need for ongoing evaluation and mentoring to validate this finding. HRA is a feasible first-line screening tool at an MSM-friendly health care facility. Years since anal coital debut and external warts could prioritize screening.

HIV-Related Implementation Research for Key Populations: Designing for Individuals, Evaluating Across Populations, and Integrating Context

INTRODUCTION

Key populations, including men who have sex with men, transgender people, sex workers, people who inject drugs, and incarcerated populations, experience high burdens of HIV and urgently need effective interventions. Yet the evidence base for implementation research (IR) with key populations remains weak and poses specific challenges to epidemiologic inference. We apply the Consolidated Framework for IR to consider specific challenges and recommendations for IR with key populations.

DISCUSSION

Individuals within key populations exist within inner and outer settings-including organizational structures, legal (eg, criminalization), and funding environments-which influence the design, adoption and fidelity of interventions, and the potential sustainability of intervention scale-up. Underlying vulnerabilities and external stressors experienced at the individual level (eg, homelessness, violence) further impact participation and retention in IR. Thus, researchers should account for representation in the research process, beginning with community engagement in IR design and consideration of enumeration/sampling methods for key populations who lack probabilistic sampling frames. Interventions for key populations require substantial adaptation and complexity (eg, individually tailored, multicomponent) to ensure appropriateness; however, there is tension between the need for complexity and challenges to internal validity (fidelity) and external validity (generalizable scale-up). Finally, integrating contextual, sampling, and implementation elements into analytic approaches is critical for effectiveness evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

Translation of efficacious findings at the individual level to effectiveness at the population level requires recognition of risk heterogeneity. Recognizing the nuances of working with key populations is essential to ensure that individuals are represented by design and therefore gains in population health can be achieved.

Multiple HPV infections among men who have sex with men engaged in anal cancer screening in Abuja, Nigeria

Background

Anal precancers and cancers can be detected during screening with high-resolution anoscopy (HRA). The sensitivity of HRA depends on the burden and duration of human papillomavirus (HPV) among those screened as well as anoscopist proficiency, which is highly correlated with prior screening experience. Our objective was to compare the identification and type of HPV and the likelihood of HRA-detected precancer for men who have sex with men (MSM) undergoing their first HRA-screening in Nigeria.

Methods

MSM were recruited from an HIV test-and-treat cohort, TRUST/RV368, into a new anal cancer screening program. Anal swabs obtained during screening underwent Ion Torrent next-generation sequencing using barcoded HPV PCR broad-spectrum primers 5+/6+ to detect up to 161 HPVs. All high-risk (HR) HPVs and the most abundant low-risk (LR)-HPVs were evaluated as type-specific infections with some categorized as belonging to a multiple infection. HRA screening results included benign, low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL), or HSIL as detected by cytology or histology. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association of HPV and other cofactors with any SIL.

Results

Among 342 MSM, 60% were HIV-infected, 89% were under 35 years of age, and 51% had 8 or more years since anal coital debut. Of those with SIL, 89% had LSIL and only 11% had HSIL. Prevalence of any HPV and high-risk (HR)-HPV was 92% and 74%, respectively. The most prevalent genotypes in rank order were HPV6 (31%), HPV16 (23%), HPV42 (20%), HPV11 (18%), HPV45 (18%), and HPV51 (17%). For multiple HR-HPVs, 31% had a single HR-HPV, 32% had 2-3, and 10% had 4 or more. Low-risk HPVs, type 6 and/or 11, were common (42%) and were significantly associated with SIL (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]:1.8, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–3.1) together with perianal warts (aOR:6.7, 95% CI: 3.3–13.5). In contrast, HR-HPV and multiple HR-HPVs were not significantly associated with SIL (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Detection of HSIL was low. Although HR-HPV was abundant, HSIL development also depends on the duration of HR-HPV infections and the anoscopist's level of experience. As our cohort ages and the anoscopist becomes more skilled, detection of HSIL will likely improve.

Seizing opportunities for intervention: Changing HIV-related knowledge among men who have sex with men and transgender women attending trusted community centers in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Knowledge of HIV risk factors and reduction strategies is essential for prevention in key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW). We evaluated factors associated with HIV-related knowledge among MSM and TGW and the impact of engagement in care at trusted community health centers in Nigeria.

METHODS

The TRUST/RV368 cohort recruited MSM and TGW in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria via respondent driven sampling. During study visits every three months, participants underwent structured interviews to collect behavioral data, received HIV education, and were provided free condoms and condom compatible lubricants. Five HIV-related knowledge questions were asked at enrollment and repeated after 9 and 15 months. The mean number of correct responses was calculated for each visit with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Multivariable Poisson regression was used to calculate adjusted risk ratios and CIs for factors associated with answering more knowledge questions correctly.

RESULTS

From March 2013 to April 2018, 2122 persons assigned male sex at birth were enrolled, including 234 TGW (11.2%). The mean number of correct responses at enrollment was 2.36 (95% CI: 2.31-2.41) and increased to 2.95 (95% CI: 2.86-3.04) and 3.06 (95% CI: 2.97-3.16) after 9 and 15 months in the study, respectively. Among 534 participants who completed all three HIV-related knowledge assessments, mean number of correct responses rose from 2.70 (95% CI: 2.60-2.80) to 3.02 (95% CI: 2.93-3.13) and then 3.06 (95% CI: 2.96-3.16). Factors associated with increased overall HIV-related knowledge included longer duration of study participation, HIV seropositivity, higher education level, and more frequent internet use.

CONCLUSIONS

There was suboptimal HIV-related knowledge among Nigerian MSM and TGW at that improved modestly with engagement in care. These data demonstrate unmet HIV education needs among Nigerian MSM and TGW and provide insights into modalities that could be used to address these needs.

Satisfaction with high-resolution anoscopy for anal cancer screening among men who have sex with men: a cross-sectional survey in Abuja, Nigeria

Background

Men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV are at increased risk for anal cancer. We evaluated satisfaction with first-time anal cancer screening using high resolution anoscopy (HRA) as a cross sectional survey among men who have sex with men (MSM) attending a community-engaged clinic in Abuja, Nigeria.

Methods

Between March and August 2017, 342 MSM underwent screening and 307 (89%) completed a satisfaction survey that evaluated 8 domains related to expectations, convenience, staff interpersonal skills, physical surroundings, technical competence, pain/discomfort, general satisfaction, and intention to re-screen if symptomatic. The 22-item questionnaire used 5-point Likert scales ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). For each domain, responses to specific items were averaged, aggregated, and converted to a 100-point scaled score (SS) with 25 and 75 corresponding to disagree and agree, respectively.

Results

Median age was 24 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 22–28), median years since anal coital debut was 7 (IQR: 4–12), and 58% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 52–64%) were living with HIV. Despite respondents reporting pre-procedure anxiety (SS:73), most were comfortable with the setting and procedure and reported overall satisfaction (SS:74–76). Willingness to undergo future screening had the lowest score (SS:69) within the general satisfaction domain. The lowest scoring domains were pain/discomfort (SS:57) and agreement to re-screen if symptomatic (SS:59), which correlated with lower overall satisfaction (p < 0.001). Domain responses did not differ by HIV infection after adjusting for multiple comparisons (p > 0.006) or number of anal biopsies (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Overall, HRA was satisfactory for those naïve to screening but moving forward necessitates monitoring levels of discomfort with pain scales and normalizing dialogue around clinical symptoms of anal cancer and overall anal health to sustain future screening.

Individual and Sexual Network Predictors of HIV Incidence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

To date, HIV incidence studies among men who have sex with men (MSM) across sub-Saharan Africa have focused on studying sexual risk practices with less focus on sexual networks.

SETTING

TRUST/RV368 conducted in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria, recruited MSM using respondent-driven sampling and followed HIV-negative men for incident infection over 4 years.

METHODS

Four-hundred forty-one HIV-uninfected MSM underwent a parallel rapid HIV testing algorithm every 3 months for up to 18 months. HIV incidence per 100 person-years (PY) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Poisson regression. Individual and network characteristics were examined using multivariable Cox-proportional hazards regression adjusted and unadjusted for respondent-driven sampling weights.

RESULTS

Among cohort members with a median age of 23 years [interquartile range (IQR): 20-27], 81 HIV infections occurred over 527 PY (incidence 15.4/100 PY; 95% CI: 12.3 to 19.0). The incidence rate was highest among 16-19 year olds as compared to those 25 years or older (30.9/100 PY; 95% CI: 22.1 to 45.3 vs. 6.9/100 PY; 95% CI: 4.2 to 10.9, respectively). Individual determinants included receptive partnerships, condomless sex, no history of testing for HIV, and rectal gonorrhea. Sexual networks were larger and consisted of an older sexual partner, although there was no clustering by recruitment networks.

CONCLUSIONS

These HIV incidence data reinforce the unmet HIV prevention needs among young MSM in Nigeria. Even in the context of emerging HIV diagnostic and prevention strategies, structural challenges including stigma and criminalization of same-sex practices highlight the need for novel implementation approaches in the context of MSM-friendly services.

HIV testing and engagement with the HIV treatment cascade among men who have sex with men in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

HIV disproportionately affects gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in Africa, where many countries criminalise same-sex behaviour. We assessed changes in the engagement of African MSM with HIV testing and treatment cascade stages over time, and the effect of anti-LGBT legislation and stigma.

METHODS

We systematically searched Embase, Global Health, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science for peer-reviewed cross-sectional or longitudinal studies recruiting at least ten MSM, published from Jan 1, 1980, to Oct 10, 2018. We extracted or derived estimates of HIV testing, engagement with the HIV treatment cascade, or both among African MSM from published reports. We derived pooled estimates using inverse-variance random-effects models. We used subgroup and meta-regression analysis to assess associations between testing and status awareness outcomes and study and participant characteristics, including the severity of country-level anti-LGBT legislation.

FINDINGS

Our searches identified 75 independent eligible studies that provided estimates for 44 993 MSM across one or more of five testing and treatment cascade outcomes. HIV testing increased significantly over time overall, with pooled proportions of MSM ever tested for HIV of 67·3% (95% CI 62·1-72·3; 44 estimates) and tested in the past 12 months of 50·1% (42·4-57·8, 31 estimates) after 2011, which were 14·8 percentage points and 17·9 percentage points higher than before 2011, respectively. After 2011, ever testing was highest in southern Africa (80·0%), and lowest in northern Africa (34·4%), with the greatest increase in western Africa (from 42·4% to 70·9%). Levels of testing ever, in the past 12 months, and status awareness were statistically significantly lower in countries with the most severe anti-LGBT legislation compared with countries with the least severe legislation (57·4% vs 71·6%, p=0·0056; 35·5% vs 49·3%, p=0·010; 6·7% vs 22·0%, p=0·0050). Few estimates were available for later stages of the treatment cascade. Available data after 2011 suggest that the pooled proportion of MSM HIV-positive aware has remained low (18·5%, 12·5-25·3; 28 estimates), whereas proportions of current antiretroviral therapy (ART) use were 23·7% (15·5-33·0; 13 estimates) among all MSM living with HIV and 60·1% (48·6-71·1; five estimates) among MSM HIV-positive aware of their status. Pooled levels of viral suppression among MSM currently on ART were 75·6% (64·4-85·5; four estimates), but only 24·7% (18·8-31·2; four estimates) among all MSM living with HIV.

INTERPRETATION

Despite improvements in HIV testing among MSM in Africa, HIV status awareness, ART coverage, and viral suppression remain much lower than required to achieve UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets. Further studies are urgently needed to provide more accurate estimates of levels of status awareness, engagement in care, ART coverage, and viral suppression among MSM to inform prevention efforts aimed at improving access to HIV services for MSM. Severe anti-LGBT legislation might be associated with lower HIV testing and status awareness; therefore, further research is needed to assess the effect of such legislation on HIV testing and engagement with the HIV treatment cascade among MSM.

FUNDING

US National Institutes of Health, UK Medical Research Council.

Anal Microbial Patterns and Oncogenic Human Papillomavirus in a Pilot Study of Nigerian Men Who Have Sex with Men at Risk for or Living with HIV

To cluster anal microbiota and define microbial patterns associated with biological, clinical, and behavioral correlates among Nigerian men who have sex with men (MSM) living with or at risk for HIV. In this cross-sectional pilot study, the 15 most abundant 16S taxa in the anal microbiota of 113 MSM underwent unsupervised K-means clustering and z-score comparisons to define similarities and dissimilarities among 4 microbiota taxonomic profiles. Distributions of oncogenic HPV (high-risk human papillomavirus [HR-HPV]), concurrent HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART), and other clinical and behavioral data were evaluated using Fisher's exact and Kruskal-Wallis tests to determine biological signatures of cluster membership. Prevotella was consistently represented in each cluster, but the average composition ranged from 14% to 44%. Cluster 2 was enriched with a member of the Fusobacteria phylum, Sneathia (29%). More participants of cluster 2 were HIV infected and taking ART (83%, 5/6), were virally suppressed (80%, 4/5), had HPV-16 (66.7%, 4/6), and reported no vaginal sex partners (83%, 5/6). HPV-35, a highly prevalent oncogenic HPV in Nigeria, was observed in all clusters except cluster 2 (0%, 0/6). Other covariates were similar across clusters (all p > .05). K-means unsupervised clustering, a canonical pattern recognition method, generalized the microbial community composition and structure while accounting for among sample variability. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether an anal microbial community enriched with members of the Fusobacteria phylum is associated with HIV-infected MSM who are virally suppressed and have a concurrent HPV-16.

Time to change the paradigm: limited condom and lubricant use among Nigerian men who have sex with men and transgender women despite availability and counseling

PURPOSE

This study characterized availability and uptake of condoms and condom-compatible lubricants (CCLs) at community-engaged condom education and distribution programs serving cisgender men who have sex with men and transgender women in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria.

METHODS

Condoms and water-based CCLs were freely available to participants in the TRUST/RV368 cohort. Factors associated with their consistent use were assessed using Poisson regression with robust error variance to estimate relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

From March 2013-November 2017, 2090 cisgender men who have sex with men and transgender women enrolled with HIV prevalence 40.4% and incidence 12.8 cases per 100 person-years. Fifteen months after enrollment, the proportion who reported consistent condom and CCL use increased during receptive anal sex (21.7%-67.1%, P < .001) and insertive anal sex (25.4%-67.8%, P < .001). Multivariable analyses demonstrated independent impact of 15 months in care on uptake during both receptive (RR 2.62 [95% CI 2.29-3.00]) and insertive (RR 2.27 [95% CI 2.01-2.57]) sex.

CONCLUSIONS

Engagement in care improved condom and CCL uptake over time but inconsistent use remained common. Novel approaches to further increase uptake must be pursued alongside complementary strategies, such as sustained access to antiretroviral therapy for those living with HIV and provision of pre and postexposure prophylaxis for those at risk.

Individual and Network Factors Associated With HIV Care Continuum Outcomes Among Nigerian MSM Accessing Health Care Services

BACKGROUND AND SETTING

Because data on the determinants of the HIV care continuum from key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) in resource-limited settings are limited, the study aimed to characterize HIV care continuum outcomes and assess individual and network barriers to progression through the HIV care continuum among MSM in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria.

METHODS

TRUST/RV368 study used respondent-driven sampling to accrue MSM into community-based clinics in Nigeria. Participants received HIV testing at enrollment. HIV-infected participants were offered antiretroviral therapy (ART) with HIV RNA testing every 3 months (Abuja) or 6 months (Lagos). Multiple logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios for factors associated with each point in the HIV care continuum, including HIV testing, ART initiation, and 6-month viral suppression.

RESULTS

A total of 1506 MSM were recruited, 1178 (78.2%) tested for HIV and 369 (31.3%) were HIV positive newly diagnosed. Of these, 188 (50.1%) initiated ART, 136 (72.3%) completed 6 months, and 96 (70.6%) were virally suppressed. Larger network size and stronger social network support were each positively associated with HIV testing uptake. Factors associated with ART initiation were higher education and stronger social network support. Having stronger social network support was associated with increased odds of viral suppression at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Social determinants of health potentiated increased HIV care continuum outcomes. Integration of HIV prevention, HIV counseling and testing services, and universal coverage of ART into a community-based clinic is critical in achieving better HIV care continuum outcomes.

Sexual Stigma Patterns Among Nigerian Men Who Have Sex with Men and Their Link to HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevalence

Sexual stigma facilitates the spread of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) but little is known about stigma affecting Nigerian men who have sex with men (MSM). We assessed patterns of sexual stigma across Nigerian MSM and their relationship to HIV and STIs. Data were collected from the TRUST/RV368 Study, a prospective cohort of 1480 Nigerian MSM enrolled from March 2013 to February 2016 using respondent driven sampling. Structural equation modeling was utilized to assess the association between stigma classes and HIV and STI prevalence, adjusting for participants' characteristics. A dose-response association was found between stigma class and HIV prevalence (27, 40, 55%, overall χ² p < 0.001) and STI prevalence (15, 21, 24%, overall χ² p = 0.011). These data suggest that stigma mitigation strategies, combined with increased engagement of MSM and retention in the HIV care continuum, need to be a component of interventions focused on reducing HIV transmission risks among MSM in Nigeria.

Participants' accrual and delivery of HIV prevention interventions among men who have sex with men in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review

Background

Across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), HIV disproportionately affects men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) compared with other men of the same age group in the general population. Access to HIV services remains low among this group although several effective interventions have been documented. It is therefore important to identify what has worked well to increase the reach of HIV services among MSM.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, POPLINE and the Web of Science databases to collect published articles reporting HIV interventions among MSM across sub-Saharan Africa. Covidence was used to review the articles. The review protocol was registered in International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) - CRD42017060808.

Results

The search identified 2627 citations, and following removal of duplicates and inclusion and exclusion criteria, only 15 papers were eligible for inclusion in the review. The articles reported various accrual strategies, namely: respondent driven sampling, known peers identified through hotspot or baseline surveys, engagement with existing community-based organizations, and through peer educators contacting MSM in virtual sites. Some programs, however, combined some of these accrual strategies. Peer-led outreach services were indicated to reach and deliver services to more MSM. A combination of peer outreach and mobile clinics increased uptake of health information and services. Health facilities, especially MSM-friendly facilities attract access and use of services by MSM and retention into care.

Conclusions

There are various strategies for accrual and delivering services to MSM across SSA. However, each of these strategies have specific strengths and weaknesses necessitating combinations of interventions and integration of the specific context to inform implementation. If the best of intervention content and implementation are used to inform these services, sufficient coverage and impact of HIV prevention and treatment programs for MSM across SSA can be optimized.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-018-5303-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

HIV viral load monitoring among key populations in low- and middle-income countries: challenges and opportunities

Introduction

Key populations bear a disproportionate HIV burden and have substantial unmet treatment needs. Routine viral load monitoring represents the gold standard for assessing treatment response at the individual and programme levels; at the population‐level, community viral load is a metric of HIV programme effectiveness and can identify “hotspots” of HIV transmission. Nevertheless, there are specific implementation and ethical challenges to effectively operationalize and meaningfully interpret viral load data at the community level among these often marginalized populations.

Discussion

Viral load monitoring enhances HIV treatment, and programme evaluation, and offers a better understanding of HIV surveillance and epidemic trends. Programmatically, viral load monitoring can provide data related to HIV service delivery coverage and quality, as well as inequities in treatment access and uptake. From a population perspective, community viral load data provides information on HIV transmission risk. Furthermore, viral load data can be used as an advocacy tool to demonstrate differences in service delivery and to promote allocation of resources to disproportionately affected key populations and communities with suboptimal health outcomes. However, in order to perform viral load monitoring for individual and programme benefit, health surveillance and advocacy purposes, careful consideration must be given to how such key population programmes are designed and implemented. For example, HIV risk factors, such as particular sex practices, sex work and drug use, are stigmatized or even criminalized in many contexts. Consequently, efforts must be taken so that routine viral load monitoring among marginalized populations does not cause inadvertent harm. Furthermore, given the challenges of reaching representative samples of key populations, significant attention to meaningful recruitment, decentralization of care and interpretation of results is needed. Finally, improving the interoperability of health systems through judicious use of biometrics or identifiers when confidentiality can be maintained is important to generate more valuable data to inform monitoring programmes.

Conclusions

Opportunities for expanded viral load monitoring could and should benefit all those affected by HIV, including key populations. The promise of the increasing routinization of viral load monitoring as a tool to advance HIV treatment equity is great and should be prioritized and appropriately implemented within key population programmatic and research agendas.

Asymptomatic lymphogranuloma venereum among Nigerian men who have sex with men

OBJECTIVES

Recent outbreaks of anorectal lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) among men who have sex with men (MSM) have been characterised by proctocolitis requiring extended antibiotic treatment compared with infections caused by other serovars of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT). We describe the prevalence and clinical features of LGV among Nigerian MSM diagnosed with anorectal CT.

METHODS

MSM were recruited for this observational cohort in Lagos, Nigeria, using respondent-driven sampling and screened for HIV and bacterial STIs every three months for up to 18 months. Nucleic acid amplification tests for CT were performed on rectal swab specimens. Prevalent and incident cases of anorectal CT underwent additional testing to identify LGV using novel real-time PCR assays specific for the L-serovars of CT.

RESULTS

From April 2014 to July 2016, 420 MSM underwent testing for rectal STIs, of whom 66 (15.7%) had prevalent anorectal CT. Among those without prevalent disease, 68 developed incident infections during 208 person-years of follow-up. Of 134 prevalent and incident cases of anorectal CT, 7 (5.2%) were identified as LGV. None of the seven participants with LGV reported any symptoms. Two of the participants with LGV were simultaneously coinfected with rectal gonorrhoea. HIV coinfection was common among participants with both LGV (n=5, 71%) and non-LGV (n=98, 77%) serovars of CT (P=0.66).

CONCLUSIONS

Anorectal LGV was uncommon but present among Nigerian MSM in this study. Consistent screening for L-serovars of CT, or presumptive treatment for LGV in cases with a high suspicion for this diagnosis, could potentially improve patient outcomes and decrease transmission.

Pathways from sexual stigma to incident HIV and sexually transmitted infections among Nigerian MSM

OBJECTIVES

Sexual stigma affecting MSM in Nigeria may be an important driver of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but potential mechanisms through which this occurs are not well understood. This study assessed the contributions of suicidal ideation and sexual risk behaviors to causal pathways between stigma and HIV/STIs.

DESIGN

Data were collected from the TRUST/RV368 Study, a prospective cohort of 1480 MSM from Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria.

METHODS

Participants enrolled from March 2013 to February 2016 were classified into three stigma subgroups based on a latent class analysis of nine stigma indicators. Path analysis was used to test a model where disclosure led to stigma, then suicidal ideation, then condomless sex with casual sex partners, and finally incident HIV infection and/or newly diagnosed STIs, adjusting the model for age, education, having had female sex partners in the past 12 months, and sex position. Both direct and indirect (mediational) paths were tested for significance and analyses were clustered by city.

RESULTS

As stigma increased in severity, the proportion of incident HIV/STI infections increased in a dose-response relationship (low: 10.6%, medium: 14.2%, high 19.0%, P = 0.008). All direct relationships in the model were significant and suicidal ideation and condomless sex partially mediated the association between stigma and incident HIV/STI infection.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the importance of the meaningful integration of stigma-mitigation strategies in conjunction with mental health services as part of a broader strategy to reduce STI and HIV acquisitions among Nigerian MSM.

Respondent-driven sampling for identification of HIV- and HCV-infected people who inject drugs and men who have sex with men in India: A cross-sectional, community-based analysis

BACKGROUND

A major barrier to achieving ambitious targets for global control of HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) is low levels of awareness of infection among key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) and people who inject drugs (PWID). We explored the potential of a strategy routinely used for surveillance in these groups, respondent-driven sampling (RDS), to be used as an intervention to identify HIV- and HCV-infected PWID and MSM who are unaware of their status and those who are viremic across 26 Indian cities at various epidemic stages.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

Data were collected as part of the baseline assessment of an ongoing cluster-randomized trial. RDS was used to accrue participants at 27 sites (15 PWID sites and 12 MSM sites) selected to reflect varying stages of the HIV epidemic among MSM and PWID in India. A total of 56 seeds recruited a sample of 26,447 persons (approximately 1,000 participants per site) between October 1, 2012, and December 19, 2013. Across MSM sites (n = 11,997), the median age was 25 years and the median number of lifetime male partners was 8. Across PWID sites (n = 14,450), 92.4% were male, the median age was 30 years, and 87.5% reported injection in the prior 6 months. RDS identified 4,051 HIV-infected persons, of whom 2,325 (57.4%) were unaware of their HIV infection and 2,816 (69.5%) were HIV viremic. It also identified 5,777 HCV-infected persons, of whom 5,337 (92.4%) were unaware that they were infected with HCV and 4,728 (81.8%) were viremic. In the overall sample (both MSM and PWID), the prevalence of HIV-infected persons who were unaware of their status increased with sampling depth, from 7.9% in participants recruited in waves 1 through 5 to 12.8% among those recruited in waves 26 and above (p-value for trend < 0.001). The overall detection rate of people unaware of their HIV infection was 0.5 persons per day, and the detection rate of HIV-infected persons with viremia (regardless of their awareness status) was 0.7 per day. The detection rate of HIV viremic individuals was positively associated with underlying HIV prevalence and the prevalence of HIV viremia (linear regression coefficient per 1-percentage-point increase in prevalence: 0.05 and 0.07, respectively). The median detection rate of PWID who were unaware of their HCV infection was 2.5 per day. The cost of identifying 1 unaware HIV-infected individual ranged from US$51 to US$2,072 across PWID sites and from US$189 to US$5,367 across MSM sites. The mean additional cost of identifying 1 unaware HCV-infected PWID was US$13 (site range: US$7-US$140). Limitations of the study include the exclusivity of study sites to India, lack of prior HIV/HCV diagnosis confirmation with clinic records, and lack of cost data from other case-finding approaches commonly used in India.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, RDS was able to rapidly identify at nominal cost a substantial number of unaware and viremic HIV-infected and HCV-infected individuals who were currently not being reached by existing programs and who were at high risk for transmission. Combining RDS (or other network-driven recruitment approaches) with strategies focused on linkage to care, particularly in high-burden settings, may be a viable option for achieving the 90-90-90 targets in key populations in resource-limited settings.

Online Sex-Seeking Among Men who have Sex with Men in Nigeria: Implications for Online Intervention

The TRUST/RV368 project was undertaken to apply innovative strategies to engage Nigerian MSM into HIV care. In this analysis we evaluate characteristics of online sex-seekers from the TRUST/RV368 cohort of 1370 MSM in Abuja and Lagos. Logistic regression and generalized estimating equation models were used to assess associations with online sex-seeking. Online sex-seeking (n = 843, 61.5 %) was associated with participation in MSM community activities, larger social and sexual networks, and higher levels of sexual behavior stigma. In addition, online sex-seeking was associated with testing positive for HIV at a follow-up visit [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.02, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 1.37, 2.98)] among those who were unaware of or not living with HIV at baseline. Across visits, online sex-seekers were marginally more likely to test positive for chlamydia/gonorrhea (aOR 1.28, 95 % CI 0.99, 1.64). Online sex-seekers in Nigeria are at increased risk for HIV/STIs but may not be benefiting from Internet-based risk reduction opportunities.

Phylodynamic analysis to inform prevention efforts in mixed HIV epidemics

In HIV epidemics of Sub Saharan Africa, the utility of HIV prevention efforts focused on key populations at higher risk of HIV infection and transmission is unclear. We conducted a phylodynamic analysis of HIV-1 pol sequences from four different risk groups in Abuja, Nigeria to estimate transmission patterns between men who have sex with men (MSM) and a representative sample of newly enrolled treatment naive HIV clients without clearly recorded HIV acquisition risks. We develop a realistic dynamical infectious disease model which was fitted to time-scaled phylogenies for subtypes G and CRF02_AG using a structured-coalescent approach. We compare the infectious disease model and structured coalescent to commonly used genetic clustering methods. We estimate HIV incidence among MSM of 7.9% (95%CI, 7.0-10.4) per susceptible person-year, and the population attributable fraction of HIV transmissions from MSM to reproductive age females to be 9.1% (95%CI, 3.8-18.6), and from the reproductive age women to MSM as 0.2% (95%CI, 0.06-0.3). Applying these parameter estimates to evaluate a test-and-treat HIV strategy that target MSM reduces the total HIV infections averted by half with a 2.5-fold saving. These results suggest the importance of addressing the HIV treatment needs of MSM in addition to cost-effectiveness of specific scale-up of treatment for MSM in the context of the mixed HIV epidemic observed in Nigeria.

Stigma, access to healthcare, and HIV risks among men who sell sex to men in Nigeria

INTRODUCTION

Among men who have sex with men (MSM), men who sell sex (MSS) may be subject to increased sexual behaviour-related stigma that affects uptake of healthcare and risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The objectives of this study were to characterize stigma, access to care, and prevalence of HIV among MSS in Nigeria.

METHODS

Respondent-driven sampling was used to recruit MSM in Abuja and Lagos into the ongoing TRUST/RV368 study, which provides HIV testing and treatment. Detailed behavioural data were collected by trained interviewers. MSS were identified by self-report of receiving goods or money in exchange for sex with men. Poisson regression with robust error variance was used to explore the impact of sex-selling on the risk of HIV.

RESULTS

From 12 initial seed participants, 1552 men were recruited from March 2013-March 2016. Of these, 735 (47.4%) reported sex-selling. Compared to other MSM, MSS were younger (median 22 vs. 24 years, p < 0.001) and more likely to identify as gay/homosexual (42.4% vs. 31.5%, p < 0.001). MSS were more likely to report perceived and experienced stigmas such as healthcare avoidance (27.6% vs. 21.5%, p = 0.005) and verbal harassment (39.2% vs. 26.8%, p < 0.001). Total HIV prevalence was 53.4%. After controlling for other factors, HIV prevalence among MSS was similar to that observed among other MSM (relative risk 0.94 [95% confidence interval 0.84-1.05]).

CONCLUSION

These data highlight increased sexual behaviour-related stigma affecting MSS, as compared with other MSM, that limits uptake of healthcare services. The distinct characteristics and risks among MSS suggest the need for specific interventions to optimize linkage to HIV prevention and treatment services in Nigeria.

Rectal microbiota among HIV-uninfected, untreated HIV, and treated HIV-infected in Nigeria

OBJECTIVE

Untreated advanced HIV infection alters the gut microbiota, but it is unclear whether antiretroviral therapy (ART) reverses these changes. We compared the composition of the rectal microbiota among three groups of men who have sex with men (MSM): HIV-uninfected, untreated HIV, and ART-treated HIV-infected.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 130 MSM (55 HIV-uninfected, 41 untreated HIV, and 34 ART-treated HIV) in Abuja, Nigeria.

METHODS

Bacterial 16S rRNA genes were amplified from rectal swabs, sequenced and clustered into Genera-level operational taxonomic units. Alpha diversity was quantified using the Shannon index and compared among groups using the Kruskal-Wallis test; associations with other scale variables were quantified using Spearman's rank correlation (Rs). The relative abundance of the top 15 taxa was compared according to HIV infection/treatment status using the Wilcoxon rank sum test.

RESULTS

HIV-treated MSM had a decrease in a commensal phylum, Bacteroidetes (P < 0.01). Alpha diversity was positively correlated with viral loads (Rs = 0.32, P < 0.01). Statistically significant shifts in relative abundance of rectal microbiota for the HIV-treated group included a decrease in the most abundant bacteria, Prevotella (P = 0.02) and an increase in pathogenic bacteria, Peptoniphilus (P = 0.04), Finegoldia (P = 0.01), Anaerococcus (P = 0.03), and Campylobacter (P = 0.03) compared with the other groups.

CONCLUSION

Untreated HIV infection does not significantly alter the rectal microbiota, whereas prior treatment is associated with a shift toward a more pathogenic pattern of microbiota. Treatment with an antibiotic, co-trimoxazole, in conjunction with ART may have contributed to this shift.

High prevalence of HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhoea among men who have sex with men and transgender women attending trusted community centres in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria

Introduction

Sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV prevalence have been reported to be higher amongst men who have sex with men (MSM) in Nigeria than in the general population. The objective of this study was to characterize the prevalence of HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhoea in this population using laboratory-based universal testing.

Methods

TRUST/RV368 represents a cohort of MSM and transgender women (TGW) recruited at trusted community centres in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria, using respondent-driven sampling (RDS). Participants undergo a structured comprehensive assessment of HIV-related risks and screening for anorectal and urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and HIV. Crude and RDS-weighted prevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Log-binomial regression was used to explore factors associated with prevalent HIV infection and STIs.

Results

From March 2013 to January 2016, 862 MSM and TGW (316 in Lagos and 546 in Abuja) underwent screening for HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhoea at study enrolment. Participants’ median age was 24 years [interquartile range (IQR) 21–27]. One-third (34.2%) were identified as gay/homosexual and 65.2% as bisexual. The overall prevalence of HIV was 54.9%. After adjusting for the RDS recruitment method, HIV prevalence in Abuja was 43.5% (95% CI 37.3–49.6%) and in Lagos was 65.6% (95% CI 54.7–76.5%). The RDS-weighted prevalence of chlamydia was 17.0% (95% CI 11.8–22.3%) in Abuja and 18.3% (95% CI 11.1–25.4%) in Lagos. Chlamydia infection was detected only at the anorectal site in 70.2% of cases. The RDS-weighted prevalence of gonorrhoea was 19.1% (95% CI 14.6–23.5%) in Abuja and 25.8% (95% CI 17.1–34.6%) in Lagos. Overall, 84.2% of gonorrhoea cases presented with anorectal infection only. Over 95% of STI cases were asymptomatic. In a multivariable model, increased risk for chlamydia/gonorrhoea was associated with younger age, gay/homosexual sexual orientation and higher number of partners for receptive anal sex. HIV infection was associated with older age, female gender identity and number of partners for receptive anal sex.

Conclusions

There is a high burden of infection with HIV and asymptomatic chlamydia and gonorrhoea among MSM and TGW in Nigeria. Most cases would have been missed without anorectal screening. Interventions are needed to target this population for appropriate STI screening and management beginning at a young age.

Recruiting the social contacts of patients with STI for HIV screening in Lilongwe, Malawi: process evaluation and assessment of acceptability

OBJECTIVES

To explore acceptability of recruiting social contacts for HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening in Lilongwe, Malawi.

METHODS

In this observational study, three groups of 'seed' patients were enrolled: 45 HIV-infected patients with STI, 45 HIV-uninfected patients with STI and 45 community controls, who were also tested for HIV as part of the study. Each seed was given five coupons and asked to recruit up to five social contacts to the STI clinic. Seeds were told the programme for contacts would include HIV testing, STI screening and general health promotion. Seeds were asked to return after 1 month to report on the contact recruitment process. Seeds received $2 for each successfully recruited contact.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine seeds (66%) returned for 1-month follow-up with no difference between the three seed groups (p=0.9). Returning seeds reported distributing most of their coupons (mean=4.1) and discussing each feature of the programme with most contacts-HIV testing (90%), STI screening (87%) and health promotion (91%). Seeds reported discussing their own HIV status with most contacts (52%), with a lower proportion of HIV-infected seeds discussing their HIV status (22%) than HIV-uninfected seeds (81%) or community seeds (64%) (p<0.001). Contact recruitment did not vary with socioeconomic status.

CONCLUSIONS

Most seeds distributed all coupons and reported describing all aspects of the programme to most contacts. Patients with STI are able to act as health promoters within their social networks and may be a critical link to increasing STI and HIV status awareness among high-risk groups.

Engagement in the HIV care cascade and barriers to antiretroviral therapy uptake among female sex workers in Port Elizabeth, South Africa: findings from a respondent-driven sampling study

BACKGROUND

Female sex workers (FSWs) are disproportionately affected by HIV, even in the context of broadly generalised HIV epidemics such as South Africa. This has been observed in spite of the individual and population-level benefits of HIV treatment. We characterise the HIV care cascade among FSWs and relationships with antiretroviral therapy (ART) use.

METHODS

FSWs ≥18 years were recruited through respondent-driven sampling into a cross-sectional study in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Participants completed questionnaires and received HIV and syphilis testing; CD4 counts were assessed among women living with HIV. Engagement in the HIV care cascade is described, and correlates of self-reported ART use among treatment-eligible previously diagnosed FSWs were estimated using robust Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Between October 2014 and April 2015, 410 FSWs participated in study activities. Overall, 261/410 were living with HIV (respondent-driven sampling-weighted prevalence 61.5% (95% bootstrapped CI 54.1% to 68.0%)). Prior diagnosis of HIV was relatively high (214/261, 82%); however, ART coverage among FSWs living with HIV was 39% (102/261). In multivariate analyses, FSWs were less likely to be on ART if they had not disclosed their HIV status to non-paying partners (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 0.43, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.86, where the reference is FSWs without non-paying partners), and also if they engaged in mobile healthcare services (aPR 0.71, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.89).

CONCLUSIONS

HIV testing and awareness of HIV status were high, but substantial losses in the cascade occur at treatment initiation. Given that FSWs engaged in mobile HIV testing and peer education programmes have unmet HIV treatment needs, models of decentralised treatment provision such as mobile-based ART care should be evaluated.

Social networks of men who have sex with men and their implications for HIV/STI interventions: results from a cross-sectional study using respondent-driven sampling in a large and a small city in Tanzania

OBJECTIVE

Men who have sex with men (MSM) in sub-Saharan Africa remain hidden and hard to reach for involvement in HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) services. The aim of the current study was to describe MSM social networks in a large and a small Tanzanian city in order to explore their utility for peer-based healthcare interventions.

METHODS

Data were collected through respondent-driven sampling (RDS) in Dar es Salaam (n=197) and in Tanga (n=99) in 2012 and 2013, using 5 and 4 seeds, respectively. All results were adjusted for RDS sampling design.

RESULTS

Mean personal network size based on the number of MSM who were reported by the participants, as known to them was 12.0±15.5 in Dar es Salaam and 7.6±8.1 in Tanga. Mean actual RDS network size was 39.4±31.4 in Dar es Salaam and 25.3±9.7 in Tanga. A majority (97%) reported that the person from whom they received the recruitment coupon was a sexual partner, close friend or acquaintance. Homophile in recruitment patterns (selective affiliation) was present for age, gay openness, and HIV status in Dar es Salaam, and for sexual identification in Tanga.

CONCLUSIONS

The personal network sizes and existence of contacts between recruiter and referral indicate that it is possible to use peer-driven interventions to reach MSM for HIV/STI interventions in larger and smaller sub-Saharan African cities. The study was reviewed and approved by the University of Texas Health Science Center's Institutional Review Board (HSC-SPH-10-0033) and the Tanzanian National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR/HQ/R.8a/Vol. IX/1088).

Serosorting and Sexual Risk for HIV Infection at the Ego-Alter Dyadic Level: An Egocentric Sexual Network Study Among MSM in Nigeria

The objective of this egocentric network study was to investigate engagement in serosorting by HIV status and risk for HIV between seroconcordant and serodiscordant ego-alter dyads. Respondent-driving sampling was used to recruit 433 Nigerian men who have sex with men (MSM) from 2013 to 2014. Participant (ego) characteristics and that of five sex partners (alters) were collected. Seroconcordancy was assessed at the ego level and for each dyad. Among 433 egos, 18 % were seroconcordant with all partners. Among 880 dyads where participants knew their HIV status, 226 (25.7 %) were seroconcordant, with 11.7 % of HIV positive dyads seroconcordant and 37.0 % of HIV negative dyads seroconcordant. Seroconcordant dyads reported fewer casual sex partners, less partner concurrency, and partners who had ever injected drugs, but condom use did not differ significantly. Serosorting may be a viable risk reduction strategy among Nigerian MSM, but awareness of and communication about HIV status should be increased. Future studies should assess serosorting on a partner-by-partner basis.

The immediate eff ect of the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act on stigma, discrimination, and engagement on HIV prevention and treatment services in men who have sex with men in Nigeria: analysis of prospective data from the TRUST cohort

BACKGROUND

In January, 2014, the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act was signed into law in Nigeria, further criminalising same-sex sexual relationships. We aimed to assess the immediate effect of this prohibition act on stigma, discrimination, and engagement in HIV prevention and treatment services in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Nigeria.

METHODS

The TRUST cohort study uses respondent-driven sampling to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of engagement of MSM in HIV prevention and treatment services at a clinical site located with a community-based organisation trusted by the MSM community. TRUST is a prospective implementation research cohort of MSM (≥16 years) in Abuja, Nigeria. We compared HIV clinical outcomes and stigma, including fear and avoidance of health care, across baseline and quarterly visits before and after implementation of the the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act. Outcomes assessed were measures of stigma and discrimination, loss to follow-up, antiretroviral therapy status, and viral load. We compared outcomes before and after the legislation with χ2 statistics, and estimated incident stigma-related events and loss to follow-up with Poisson regression.

FINDINGS

Between March 19, 2013, and Aug 7, 2014, 707 MSM participated in baseline study procedures, contributing to 756 before legislation (prelaw) and 420 after legislation (postlaw) visits. Reported history of fear of seeking health care was significantly higher in postlaw visits than in prelaw visits (n=161 [38%] vs n=187 [25%]; p<0・0001), as was avoidance of health care (n=118 [28%] vs n=151 [20%]; p=0・001). In incidence analyses, of 192 MSM with follow-up data and no history of an event at baseline, reported fear of seeking health care was higher in the postlaw than the prelaw period (n=144; incidence rate ratio 2・57, 95% CI 1・29–5・10; p=0・007); loss to follow-up and incident healthcare avoidance were similar across periods. Of the 161 (89%) of 181 HIV-infected MSM with HIV viral loads available, those who had disclosed sexual behaviour with a health-care provider were more often virally suppressed at baseline than those with no previous disclosure (18 [29%] of 62 vs 13 [13%] of 99 men; p=0・013).

INTERPRETATION

These analyses represent individual-level, quantitative, real-time prospective data for the health-related effects resulting from the enactment of legislation further criminalising same-sex practices. The negative effects of HIV treatment and care in MSM reinforce the unintended consequences of such legislation on global goals of HIV eradication. Strategies to reach MSM less likely to engage in HIV testing and care in highly stigmatised environments are needed to reduce time to HIV diagnosis and treatment.

FUNDING

National Institutes of Health.

Feasibility of a Combination HIV Prevention Program for Men Who Have Sex With Men in Blantyre, Malawi

INTRODUCTION

The use of combination HIV prevention interventions (CHPI) now represent the standard of care to minimize HIV acquisition risks among men who have sex with men (MSM). There has been limited evaluation of these approaches in generalized HIV epidemics and/or where MSM are stigmatized. A peer-based CHPI program to target individual, social, and structural risks for HIV was developed for MSM in Blantyre, Malawi.

METHODS

To test the feasibility of CHPI, adult MSM were followed prospectively from January 2012 to May 2013. Participants (N = 103) completed sociobehavioral surveys and HIV testing at each of the 3 follow-up study visits.

RESULTS

Approximately 90% of participants attended each study visit and 93.2% (n = 96) completed the final visit. Participants met with peer educators a median of 3 times (range: 1-10) in the follow-up visits 2 and 3. Condom use at last sex improved from baseline through follow-up visit 3 with main (baseline: 62.5%, follow-up 3: 77.0%; P = 0.02) and casual male partners (baseline: 70.7%, follow-up 3: 86.3%; P = 0.01). Disclosure of sexual behaviors/orientation to family increased from 25% in follow-up 1 to 55% in follow-up 3 (P < 0.01).

DISCUSSION

Participants maintained a high level of retention in the study highlighting the feasibility of leveraging community-based organizations to recruit and retain MSM in HIV prevention and treatment interventions in stigmatizing settings. Group-level changes in sexual behavior and disclosure in safe settings for MSM were noted. CHPI may represent a useful model to providing access to other HIV prevention for MSM and aiding retention in care and treatment services for MSM living with HIV in challenging environments.

Respondent-driven sampling as a recruitment method for men who have sex with men in southern sub-Saharan Africa: a cross-sectional analysis by wave

OBJECTIVES

Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) is a popular method for recruiting men who have sex with men (MSM). Our objective is to describe the ability of RDS to reach MSM for HIV testing in three southern African nations.

METHODS

Data collected via RDS among MSM in Lesotho (N=318), Swaziland (N=310) and Malawi (N=334) were analysed by wave in order to characterise differences in sample characteristics. Seeds were recruited from MSM-affiliated community-based organisations. Men were interviewed during a single study visit and tested for HIV. χ(2) tests for trend were used to examine differences in the proportions across wave category.

RESULTS

A maximum of 13-19 recruitment waves were achieved in each study site. The percentage of those who identified as gay/homosexual decreased as waves increased in Lesotho (49% to 27%, p<0.01). In Swaziland and Lesotho, knowledge that anal sex was the riskiest type of sex for HIV transmission decreased across waves (39% to 23%, p<0.05, and 37% to 19%, p<0.05). The percentage of participants who had ever received more than one HIV test decreased across waves in Malawi (31% to 12%, p<0.01). In Lesotho and Malawi, the prevalence of testing positive for HIV decreased across waves (48% to 15%, p<0.01 and 23% to 11%, p<0.05). Among those living with HIV, the proportion of those unaware of their status increased across waves in all study sites although this finding was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

RDS that extends deeper into recruitment waves may be a promising method of reaching MSM with varying levels of HIV prevention needs.

Scaling-up HIV responses with key populations in West Africa

BACKGROUND

Despite decades of HIV responses in pockets of West and Central Africa (WCA), the HIV response with key populations remains an understudied area. Recently, there has been a proliferation of studies highlighting epidemiologic and behavioral data that challenge attitudes of complacency among donors and country governments uncomfortable in addressing key populations.

METHODS

The articles in this series highlight new studies that provide a better understanding of the epidemiologic and structural burden facing key populations in the WCA region and how to improve responses through more effective targeting.

RESULTS

Key populations face pervasive structural barriers including institutional and sexual violence and an intersection of stigma, criminalization, and marginalization as sexual minorities. Despite decades of smaller interventions that have shown the importance of integrated services for key populations, there remains incongruent provision of outreach or testing or family planning pointing to sustained risk. There remains an incongruent resource provision for key populations where they shoulder the burden of HIV and their access to services alone could turn around HIV epidemics within the region.

CONCLUSIONS

These proximal and distal determinants must be addressed in regional efforts, led by the community, and resourced for scale, targeting those most at risk for the acquisition and transmission of HIV. This special issue builds the knowledge base for the region focusing on interventions that remove barriers to service access including treatment uptake for those living with HIV. Better analysis and use of data for strategic planning are shown to lead to more effective targeting of prevention, care, and HIV treatment programs with key populations. These articles further demonstrate the immediate need for comprehensive action to address HIV among key populations throughout the WCA region.