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Harkness A, Giusto A, Hamilton AB, Hernandez‐Ramirez RU, Spiegelman D, Weiner BJ, Beidas RS, Larson ME, Lippman SA, Wainberg ML, Smith JD. Navigating grey areas in HIV and mental health implementation science. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26271. [PMID: 38923301 PMCID: PMC11197965 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Implementation science (IS) offers methods to systematically achieve the Ending the HIV Epidemic goals in the United States, as well as the global UNAIDS targets. Federal funders such as the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH) have invested in implementation research to achieve these goals, including supporting the AIDS Research Centres (ARCs), which focus on high-impact science in HIV and mental health (MH). To facilitate capacity building for the HIV/MH research workforce in IS, "grey areas," or areas of IS that are confusing, particularly for new investigators, should be addressed in the context of HIV/MH research. DISCUSSION A group of IS experts affiliated with NIMH-funded ARCs convened to identify common and challenging grey areas. The group generated a preliminary list of 19 grey areas in HIV/MH-related IS. From the list, the authors developed a survey which was distributed to all ARCs to prioritize grey areas to address in this paper. ARC members across the United States (N = 60) identified priority grey areas requiring clarification. This commentary discusses topics with 40% or more endorsement. The top grey areas that ARC members identified were: (1) Differentiating implementation strategies from interventions; (2) Determining when an intervention has sufficient evidence for adaptation; (3) Integrating recipient perspectives into HIV/MH implementation research; (4) Evaluating whether an implementation strategy is evidence-based; (5) Identifying rigorous approaches for evaluating the impact of implementation strategies in the absence of a control group or randomization; and (6) Addressing innovation in HIV/MH IS grants. The commentary addresses each grey area by drawing from the existing literature (when available), providing expert guidance on addressing each in the context of HIV/MH research, and providing domestic and global HIV and HIV/MH case examples that address these grey areas. CONCLUSIONS HIV/MH IS is key to achieving domestic and international goals for ending HIV transmission and mitigating its impact. Guidance offered in this paper can help to overcome challenges to rigorous and high-impact HIV/MH implementation research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Harkness
- School of Nursing and Health StudiesUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
| | - Ali Giusto
- Department of PsychiatryColumbia University Irving Medical CenterNew York State Psychiatric InstituteNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Alison B. Hamilton
- Center for the Study of Healthcare InnovationImplementation & Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare SystemLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral SciencesUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Raul U. Hernandez‐Ramirez
- Department of BiostatisticsCenter for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDSand Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention ScienceYale School of Public HealthNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Donna Spiegelman
- Department of BiostatisticsCenter for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDSand Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention ScienceYale School of Public HealthNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Bryan J. Weiner
- School of Public HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Rinad S. Beidas
- Department of Medical Social SciencesFeinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Michaela E. Larson
- School of Nursing and Health StudiesUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
- Division of Prevention ScienceUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- Division of Prevention ScienceUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Milton L. Wainberg
- Department of PsychiatryColumbia University Irving Medical CenterNew York State Psychiatric InstituteNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Justin D. Smith
- Department of Population Health SciencesSpencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
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Coelho SM, Rosen JG, Schulz G, Meek K, Shipp L, Singh C, Willis K, Best A, Mcingana M, Mcloughlin J, Hausler H, Beyrer C, Baral SD, Schwartz SR. A decade of PrEP: the evolution of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis content and sentiments in South African print news media, 2012-2021. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38656915 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2024.2344111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
After nearly a decade of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) rollout in sub-Saharan Africa, there has been limited study of PrEP messaging in news media. We selected twenty South African newspapers with the highest circulation volumes to retrieve articles published in 2012-2021 mentioning PrEP (N = 249). Using inductive content analysis, we developed a structured codebook to characterise PrEP-related content and sentiments, as well as their evolution over time, in the South African press. Many articles espoused favourable attitudes towards PrEP (52%), but a sizeable fraction espoused unfavourable attitudes (11%). Relative to PrEP-favourable articles, PrEP-unfavourable articles were significantly more likely to emphasise the drawbacks/consequences of PrEP use, including adherence/persistence requirements (52% vs. 24%, p = .007), cost (48% vs. 11%, p < .001), and risk compensation (52% vs. 5%, p < .001). Nevertheless, the presence of these drawbacks/consequences in print media largely declined over time. Key populations (e.g. adolescents, female sex workers) were frequently mentioned potential PrEP candidates. Despite message variations over time, prevention effectiveness and adherence/persistence requirements were the most widely cited PrEP benefits and drawbacks, respectively. Study findings demonstrate the dynamic nature of PrEP coverage in the South African press, likely in response to PrEP scale-up and real-world PrEP implementation during the study period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simmona M Coelho
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joseph G Rosen
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gretchen Schulz
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kristin Meek
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lillian Shipp
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Kalai Willis
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | - Harry Hausler
- TB HIV Care, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sheree R Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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3
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Pitchford K, Shangani S, Dawson C, Masa R, Heron K. Community Health Care Providers' Perspectives on Human Immunodeficiency Virus Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Use Among Black Women in Eastern Virginia. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2024; 38:123-133. [PMID: 38471092 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The most at-risk population among women for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) diagnosis in the United States are Black women, accounting for 61% of all new HIV cases. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a safe and effective HIV prevention method for people at risk of HIV acquisition. Although disproportionately affected by HIV, Black women's knowledge, perceived benefits, and uptake of PrEP remain low. The socioecological model (SEM) may be useful for understanding why there is a low uptake of PrEP among Black women. The current study used the SEM to explore provider perspectives on the barriers and facilitators of PrEP uptake among Black women in Eastern Virginia. Semistructured interviews were conducted with a total sample of 15 community health care providers. Barriers of PrEP uptake at the societal (e.g., PrEP advertisements focus on gay men), community/organizational (e.g., time constraints in the workplace), interpersonal (e.g., perceived monogamy), and individual (e.g., unmet basic needs) levels were identified. Providers also identified facilitators of PrEP uptake at the societal (e.g., PrEP advertisements that target women), community/organizational (e.g., PrEP education), interpersonal (e.g., HIV-positive partner), and individual (e.g., PrEP awareness and perceived susceptibility to HIV) levels. These findings highlight unique barriers to accessing and taking PrEP for Black women in the United States, and potential factors that could facilitate PrEP use. Both barriers and facilitators may be important targets for interventions to improve PrEP uptake. Future research focused on improving PrEP uptake among Black women in the United States should consider multi-level interventions that target barriers and facilitators to reduce rates of HIV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla Pitchford
- The Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Sylvia Shangani
- Department of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Charlotte Dawson
- The Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Rainier Masa
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kristin Heron
- The Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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Kerr J, Combs R, Sterrett-Hong E, Harris L, Northington T, Krigger K, Parker K. Evaluation of a community-informed multimedia intervention to increase PrEP awareness and intention among African American young adults. AIDS Care 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38301133 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2297739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Despite the benefits of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in preventing HIV and its potential for reducing racial/ethnic HIV inequities, PrEP remains underutilized among African Americans who may benefit from it. Factors of PrEP uptake include awareness and acceptability of this prevention strategy among this group, yet few community-informed interventions have been developed and evaluated to address these challenges. Thus, this study evaluates the effectiveness of a community-informed, six-month multimedia campaign (print, digital media, internet radio, social media) for African American young adults (age 18-29) in Louisville, Kentucky to increase PrEP awareness and PrEP use intentions. Pretest surveys, posttest surveys, and digital analytic metrics were used to determine campaign effectiveness. Logistic regressions indicate increased PrEP awareness over time (p ≤ 0.0001) and greater PrEP intention among participants reporting greater campaign affinity (p ≤ 0.05). Campaign digital analytic performance was similar to or exceeded that of industry competitors (e.g., healthcare organizations). Findings indicate that a community-informed multimedia campaign increased PrEP use intentions among those exhibiting greater campaign affinity (the extent to which participants report a favorable view of the campaign) and demonstrated similar or greater effectiveness in digital elements as industry competitors at a cost-effective price. Future studies should incorporate community-engaged approaches in developing health communication products for greater PrEP acceptability and efficiency.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT0355959.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelani Kerr
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Ryan Combs
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Emma Sterrett-Hong
- Kent School of Social Work and Family Science, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Lesley Harris
- Kent School of Social Work and Family Science, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | - Karen Krigger
- Department of Family and Geriatric Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Kim Parker
- Parker-Owens Research Group, Frisco, TX, USA
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Lyons DE, Kumar P, Roan NR, Defechereux PA, Feschotte C, Lange UC, Murthy N, Sameshima P, Verdin E, Ake JA, Parsons MS, Nath A, Gianella S, Smith DM, Kallas EG, Villa TJ, Strange R, Mwesigwa B, Furler O’Brien RL, Nixon DF, Ndhlovu LC, Valente ST, Ott M. HIV-1 Remission: Accelerating the Path to Permanent HIV-1 Silencing. Viruses 2023; 15:2171. [PMID: 38005849 PMCID: PMC10674359 DOI: 10.3390/v15112171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite remarkable progress, a cure for HIV-1 infection remains elusive. Rebound competent latent and transcriptionally active reservoir cells persevere despite antiretroviral therapy and rekindle infection due to inefficient proviral silencing. We propose a novel "block-lock-stop" approach, entailing long term durable silencing of viral expression towards an irreversible transcriptionally inactive latent provirus to achieve long term antiretroviral free control of the virus. A graded transformation of remnant HIV-1 in PLWH from persistent into silent to permanently defective proviruses is proposed, emulating and accelerating the natural path that human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) take over millions of years. This hypothesis was based on research into delineating the mechanisms of HIV-1 latency, lessons from latency reversing agents and advances of Tat inhibitors, as well as expertise in the biology of HERVs. Insights from elite controllers and the availability of advanced genome engineering technologies for the direct excision of remnant virus set the stage for a rapid path to an HIV-1 cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle E. Lyons
- Gladstone Institute of Virology, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Priti Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
| | - Nadia R. Roan
- Gladstone Institute of Virology, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Patricia A. Defechereux
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Cedric Feschotte
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | | - Niren Murthy
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA;
- Innovative Genomics Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Pauline Sameshima
- Faculty of Education, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada;
| | - Eric Verdin
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | - Julie A. Ake
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA (M.S.P.)
| | - Matthew S. Parsons
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA (M.S.P.)
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
- Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Avindra Nath
- Section of Infections of the Nervous System, National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20824, USA;
| | - Sara Gianella
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Davey M. Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Esper G. Kallas
- Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo 04023-900, Brazil
| | - Thomas J. Villa
- HOPE Martin Delaney Collaboratory for HIV Cure Research Community Engagement Ambassador, Washinton, DC 20004, USA (R.S.)
- National HIV & Aging Advocacy Network, Washington, DC 20004, USA
| | - Richard Strange
- HOPE Martin Delaney Collaboratory for HIV Cure Research Community Engagement Ambassador, Washinton, DC 20004, USA (R.S.)
| | - Betty Mwesigwa
- Research Department, Makerere University Walter Reed Project, Kampala P.O Box 7062, Uganda
| | - Robert L. Furler O’Brien
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Douglas F. Nixon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Lishomwa C. Ndhlovu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Susana T. Valente
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation and Technology, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Melanie Ott
- Gladstone Institute of Virology, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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Kalwicz DA, Rao S, Modrakovic D, Zea MC, Dovidio JF, Magnus M, Kharfen M, Patel V, Calabrese SK. 'There are people like me who will see that, and it will just wash over them': Black sexual minority men's perspectives on messaging in PrEP visual advertisements. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2023; 25:1371-1386. [PMID: 36598172 PMCID: PMC10318116 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2022.2157491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The high incidence of HIV among US Black sexual minority men is a public health crisis that pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV can help address. Public health campaigns, which often include pictures of Black sexual minority men alongside PrEP-related messaging, have been developed to encourage PrEP awareness and uptake. However, the acceptability of the messaging within these campaigns among Black sexual minority men is unclear. We conducted four focus groups with 18 HIV-negative Black sexual minority men in Washington, DC to explore their perspectives regarding promotional messaging (textual elements) in PrEP visual advertisements, including their reactions to three large-scale public health campaigns. Primary themes included: (1) the need for additional information about PrEP, (2) preference for slogan simplicity, (3) the desire to normalise PrEP use, and (4) mixed views on the inclusion of condoms. Results indicated that the messaging in current PrEP visual advertisements may not sufficiently address Black sexual minority men's questions about PrEP. Providing basic PrEP information and methods to access more information; using simple, unambiguous language; presenting PrEP use in a destigmatising, normalising fashion; and conveying the relevance of condoms if included in the advertisement could help increase the acceptability of future PrEP advertising among Black sexual minority men.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Kalwicz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sharanya Rao
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Djordje Modrakovic
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Maria Cecilia Zea
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - John F. Dovidio
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Manya Magnus
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michael Kharfen
- District of Columbia Department of Health, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD and TB Administration, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Viraj Patel
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Sarah K. Calabrese
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Scott RK, Hull SJ, Huang JC, Ye PP, Lotke P, Beverley J, Moriarty P, Balaji D, Ward A, Holiday J, Brant AR, Elion R, Visconti AJ, Coleman M. Intention to Initiate HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Among Cisgender Women in a High HIV Prevalence U.S. City. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:541-550. [PMID: 37479630 PMCID: PMC10552685 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objective was to identify the individual, interpersonal, community, health-system, and structural factors that influence HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) initiation among cisgender women seeking sexual and reproductive health care in a high HIV prevalence community to inform future clinic-based PrEP interventions. METHODS We collected anonymous, tablet-based questionnaires from a convenience sample of cisgender women in family planning and sexual health clinics in the District of Columbia. The survey used the lens of the socio-ecological model to measure individual, interpersonal, community, institutional, and structural factors surrounding intention to initiate PrEP. The survey queried demographics, behavioral exposure to HIV, perceived risk of HIV acquisition, a priori awareness of PrEP, intention to initiate PrEP, and factors influencing intention to initiate PrEP. RESULTS A total of 1437 cisgender women completed the survey. By socio-ecological level, intention to initiate PrEP was associated with positive attitudes toward PrEP (odds ratio [OR], 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13-2.15) and higher self-efficacy (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.02-1.72) on the individual level, perceived future utilization of PrEP among peers and low fear of shame/stigma (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.33-2.04) on the community level, and having discussed PrEP with a provider (OR. 2.39; 95% CI, 1.20-4.75) on the institutional level. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the importance of multilevel, clinic-based interventions for cisgender women, which promote sex-positive and preventive PrEP messaging, peer navigation to destigmatize PrEP, and education and support for women's health medical providers in the provision of PrEP services for cisgender women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K Scott
- MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland; MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
| | - Shawnika J Hull
- Rutgers University, Department of Communications, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Jim C Huang
- Department of Business Management, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Peggy P Ye
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Pamela Lotke
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | | | | | - Allison Ward
- MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland; MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Ashley R Brant
- MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland
| | - Rick Elion
- DC Health, Washington, District of Columbia
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8
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Rosen JG, Toomre T, To C, Olatunde PF, Cooper L, Glick JL, Park JN. Communicative appeals and messaging frames in visual media for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis promotion to cisgender and transgender women. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2023; 25:1007-1023. [PMID: 36074902 PMCID: PMC9992445 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2022.2116111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Women in the USA represent 15% of new HIV diagnoses but only 5% of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users. We sought to characterise communicative appeals and messaging frames used in US visual media to cultivate PrEP demand among cisgender and transgender women using content analysis methodology. We catalogued and coded media items (images and videos) from US PrEP marketing campaigns featuring women. Production and content characteristics were abstracted, and communicative appeals from media items were qualitatively coded in duplicate. We then descriptively summarised production and content characteristics and identified discrete subgroups of media items, clustering around specific messaging frames, through qualitative thematic analysis. Racial/ethnic minorities and sexual/gender minority women were heavily featured, and numerous media items leveraged cognitive and social communicative appeals to promote PrEP. We identified three unique messaging frames emerging from coded media items, portraying PrEP as: (1) necessary prevention (protection frame), (2) a desirable yet accessible commodity (aspiration frame), and (3) a conduit to sexual autonomy (empowerment frame). To effectively communicate PrEP information and promote PrEP to women, PrEP marketing should leverage alternative appeals (subjective norms, self-efficacy), address anticipated barriers to uptake (stigma, cost, medication interactions), and deconstruct misconceptions of PrEP use(rs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G. Rosen
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Teagan Toomre
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - C To
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Praise F. Olatunde
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lyra Cooper
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Glick
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Center for Biomedical Research Excellence on Opioids and Overdose, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
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Keddem S, Agha A, Morawej S, Buck A, Cronholm P, Sonalkar S, Kearney M. Characterizing Twitter Content About HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for Women: Qualitative Content Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e43596. [PMID: 37166954 PMCID: PMC10214116 DOI: 10.2196/43596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV remains a persistent health problem in the United States, especially among women. Approved in 2012, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily pill or bimonthly injection that can be taken by individuals at increased risk of contracting HIV to reduce their risk of new infection. Women who are at risk of HIV face numerous barriers to HIV services and information, underscoring the critical need for strategies to increase awareness of evidence-based HIV prevention methods, such as HIV PrEP, among women. OBJECTIVE We aimed to identify historical trends in the use of Twitter hashtags specific to women and HIV PrEP and explore content about women and PrEP shared through Twitter. METHODS This was a qualitative descriptive study using a purposive sample of tweets containing hashtags related to women and HIV PrEP from 2009 to 2022. Tweets were collected via Twitter's API. Each Twitter user profile, tweet, and related links were coded using content analysis, guided by the framework of the Health Belief Model (HBM) to generate results. We used a factor analysis to identify salient clusters of tweets. RESULTS A total of 1256 tweets from 396 unique users were relevant to our study focus of content about PrEP specifically for women (1256/2908, 43.2% of eligible tweets). We found that this sample of tweets was posted mostly by organizations. The 2 largest groups of individual users were activists and advocates (61/396, 15.4%) and personal users (54/396, 13.6%). Among individual users, most were female (100/166, 60%) and American (256/396, 64.6%). The earliest relevant tweet in our sample was posted in mid-2014 and the number of tweets significantly decreased after 2018. We found that 61% (496/820) of relevant tweets contained links to informational websites intended to provide guidance and resources or promote access to PrEP. Most tweets specifically targeted people of color, including through the use of imagery and symbolism. In addition to inclusive imagery, our factor analysis indicated that more than a third of tweets were intended to share information and promote PrEP to people of color. Less than half of tweets contained any HBM concepts, and only a few contained cues to action. Lastly, while our sample included only tweets relevant to women, we found that the tweets directed to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) audiences received the highest levels of audience engagement. CONCLUSIONS These findings point to several areas for improvement in future social media campaigns directed at women about PrEP. First, future posts would benefit from including more theoretical constructs, such as self-efficacy and cues to action. Second, organizations posting on Twitter should continue to broaden their audience and followers to reach more people. Lastly, tweets should leverage the momentum and strategies used by the LGBTQ community to reach broader audiences and destigmatize PrEP use across all communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimrit Keddem
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Center for Health Equity, Research & Promotion, Corporal Michael J Crescenz VA Medical Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Aneeza Agha
- Center for Health Equity, Research & Promotion, Corporal Michael J Crescenz VA Medical Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sabrina Morawej
- Center for Health Equity, Research & Promotion, Corporal Michael J Crescenz VA Medical Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Amy Buck
- Center for Public Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Peter Cronholm
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Center for Public Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sarita Sonalkar
- Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Matthew Kearney
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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10
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Brief Report: Refusal of Daily Oral PrEP: Implementation Considerations and Reported Likelihood of Using Various HIV Prophylaxis Products in a Diverse Sample of MSM. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:212-216. [PMID: 36442153 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An important subgroup of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) with behavioral indications refuse daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) when recommended by a provider. Emerging HIV prophylaxis products (eg, injectable, event-driven) offer more options to MSM who refuse daily PrEP. In this article, we assess reasons for refusal and likelihood to use various products among MSM who refused PrEP. METHODS MSM who reported anal sex without condoms or PrEP and refused daily oral PrEP in the past 6 months were recruited through clinics, community venues, and online in Atlanta, Chicago, and Raleigh-Durham. Men were asked their main reason for recently refusing daily PrEP and likelihood of using various PrEP options in the future. Bivariate and multivariable regression models were used to estimate associations. RESULTS MSM (n = 93; 70% Black, 48% age 18-29 years) reported their main reason for refusing daily PrEP were potential side effects (35%), a daily pill regimen (22%), and not having enough information (18%). Reported likelihood of using PrEP products was 58% for penile gel, 54% for event-driven oral, 52% for injectable, and 50% for daily PrEP. MSM who reported daily regimen as the main reason for refusing PrEP had greater odds of likelihood to use an injectable [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 5.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.32 to 20.52]. Younger men (18-29 vs 30+ years) had greater odds of likelihood to use condoms (AOR = 3.40, 95% CI: 1.15 to 10.04) and daily PrEP (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.06 to 7.16); there were no product preference differences by race. CONCLUSION Most men who refused daily PrEP indicated likelihood of using some form of PrEP in the future.
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11
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Calabrese SK, Kalwicz DA, Dovidio JF, Rao S, Modrakovic DX, Boone CA, Magnus M, Kharfen M, Patel VV, Zea MC. Targeted social marketing of PrEP and the stigmatization of black sexual minority men. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285329. [PMID: 37167318 PMCID: PMC10174512 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Disparities in HIV incidence and PrEP uptake suggest a need to prioritize Black sexual minority men (SMM) in PrEP social marketing initiatives. However, images linking Black SMM to HIV and PrEP may inadvertently reinforce stigma. We examined HIV-negative/status-unknown Black SMM's responses to targeted PrEP advertisements using mixed methods, including an experiment embedded in a longitudinal online survey (Time 1: n = 96; Time 2 [eight weeks]: n = 73) and four focus groups (n = 18). The full factorial experiment included between-groups and within-subjects comparisons. For between-groups comparisons, each participant was randomly assigned to view one of 12 advertisements, which varied by couple composition (Black SMM couple/Black heterosexual couple/multiple diverse couples/no couples) and campaign (PrEPare for the Possibilities/PlaySure/PrEP4Love). We examined couple composition, campaign, and interaction effects on: advertisement judgments (Time 1), PrEP stigma (Time 1), PrEP motivation (Times 1 and 2), and PrEP behavior (Time 2). For within-subjects comparisons, each participant viewed all 12 advertisements, and we examined couple composition, campaign, and interaction effects on advertisement judgments (Time 2). Focus group participants discussed advertising preferences and responded to the same set of advertisements. For between-groups and within-subjects comparisons, we found significant couple composition effects but no or limited campaign and interaction effects on advertisement judgments. Advertisements featuring Black SMM exclusively were judged as more stigmatizing than advertisements without couples. Advertisements with diverse (vs. no) couples were considered more eye-catching and motivating. There were minimal effects of couple composition and campaign on PrEP stigma, motivation, and behavior. Focus group participants corroborated concerns about the potential for PrEP advertisements to be stigmatizing, suggesting advertisements featuring Black SMM exclusively could be alienating and fuel conspiracy theories. Focus group participants generally favored diverse and less sexualized advertisements, particularly for public spaces. Findings collectively highlight the potential for targeted PrEP advertisements to stigmatize Black SMM and support diverse representation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Calabrese
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - David A Kalwicz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - John F Dovidio
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Sharanya Rao
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Djordje X Modrakovic
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Cheriko A Boone
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- TAG Treatment Action Group Inc., New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Manya Magnus
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Michael Kharfen
- HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD & TB Administration, DC Department of Health, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Viraj V Patel
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Health System, Bronx, NY, United States of America
| | - Maria Cecilia Zea
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
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12
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Erdengasileng A, Tian S, Green SS, Naar S, He Z. Using Twitter Data Analysis to Understand the Perceptions, Awareness, and Barriers to the Wide Use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis in the United States. PROCEEDINGS. IEEE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON BIOINFORMATICS AND BIOMEDICINE 2022; 2022:3000-3007. [PMID: 36818418 PMCID: PMC9937556 DOI: 10.1109/bibm55620.2022.9995568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
User-generated social media posts such as tweets can provide insights about the public's perception, cognitive, and behavioral responses to health-related issues. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of HIV infection. However, its utilization is low in the US, especially among populations disproportionately affected by HIV such as the age group of under 24 years old. It is therefore important to understand the barriers to the wider use of PrEP in the US using social media posts. In this study, we collected tweets from Twitter about PrEP in the past 4 years to identify such barriers by first identifying tweets about personal discussions, and then performing textual analysis using word analysis, UMLS semantic type analysis, and topic modeling. We found that the public often discussed advocacy, risks/benefits, access, pricing, insurance coverage, legislation, stigma, health education, and prevention of HIV. This result is consistent with the literature and can help identify strategies for promoting the use of PrEP, especially among young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shubo Tian
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
| | - Sara S. Green
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
| | - Sylvie Naar
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
| | - Zhe He
- School of Information, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
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13
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Mbotwa C, Kazaura M, Moen K, Leshabari M, Metta E, Leyna G, Mmbaga EJ. Predictors of mHealth use in promoting adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis among female sex workers: an evaluation of the Jichunge intervention in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:859. [PMID: 35787285 PMCID: PMC9254514 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08245-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is evidence that pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective in preventing HIV transmission, and PrEP is recommended by the World Health organization (WHO) for use by individuals at high risk of HIV infection. However, low adherence has been reported to hamper its effectiveness. Some evidence indicates that mHealth interventions may be a promising way of promoting PrEP adherence. Nevertheless, evaluations of mHealth interventions in Africa, the region most affected by HIV, are scarce. This study aimed at identifying the extent of and predictors for use of a smartphone based mHealth application among female sex workers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods As part of a quasi-experimental study in Tanzania, 470 female sex workers who were eligible for PrEP and who owned a smartphone were recruited using respondent driven sampling. All participants were provided with an mHealth application called Jichunge, a smartphone-based app designed to promote adherence to PrEP by offering users information, advise and support during start-up and use of PrEP. We collected data through structured interviews at baseline and extracted user data from the app for a period of 30 days. Modified Poisson regression model with robust standard errors was used to identify predictors for the optimal use of the Jichunge app. Results Overall, the optimal use of the Jichunge app was 46.4%. Optimal use was significantly higher among women who were older (aPR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.10-1.65, p = 0.004 for age 25-34 years, and aPR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.19-2.07, p = 0.001 for age at least 35 years), who had secondary education or higher (aPR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.08-2.94, p = 0.023), who had suboptimal social support (aPR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.02-1.48, p = 0.030), who had high awareness of PrEP (aPR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.08-1.55, p = 0.005), and who had experience using common mainstream social media applications (aPR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.08-1.71, p = 0.009). Conclusion Optimal use of the Jichunge app was substantially higher among women with higher age, higher education, higher PrEP awareness, less social support, and experience using common social media applications. Individual and interpersonal factors should be considered in planning mHealth interventions. Further studies to determine predictors of longer-term mHealth engagement are needed. Trial registration International Clinical Trials Registry Platform PACTR202003823226570; 04.03.2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Mbotwa
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. .,Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, Tanzania.
| | - Method Kazaura
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Kåre Moen
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Melkizedeck Leshabari
- Department of Behavioural sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Emmy Metta
- Department of Behavioural sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Germana Leyna
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Tanzania Food and Nutrition Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Elia J Mmbaga
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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14
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Scott RK, Hull SJ, Huang JC, Coleman M, Ye P, Lotke P, Beverley J, Moriarty P, Balaji D, Ward A, Holiday J, Brant AR, Cameron M, Elion R, Visconti A. Factors Associated with Intention to Initiate Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in Cisgender Women at High Behavioral Risk for HIV in Washington, D.C. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2613-2624. [PMID: 35622077 PMCID: PMC9308717 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02274-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is underutilized by cisgender women at risk for HIV in the USA. Published research on PrEP initiation among cisgender women at risk for HIV focuses on identifying barriers and facilitators associated with intention to initiate, but few apply a behavioral theoretical lens to understand the relative importance of these diverse factors. This study provides a theoretically grounded view of the relative importance of factors associated with intention to initiate PrEP. We conducted an anonymous, cross-sectional survey of 1437 cisgender women seeking care at family planning and sexual health clinics to evaluate hypothesized barriers and facilitators of PrEP initiation. We categorized cisgender women with ≥ 3 behavioral risk-factors as "high-risk" for HIV acquisition; 26.9% (N = 387) met high-risk criterion. Among cisgender women in the high-risk sample, the majority were Black and single. Perceived risk of HIV acquisition was low and 13.7% reported intention to initiate PrEP. Positive attitudes toward PrEP, self-efficacy, perceived support from medical providers and social networks, and prior discussion about PrEP with medical providers were associated with intention to initiate PrEP; stigma was negatively associated. Background characteristics (other than age), risk factors for HIV acquisition, prior awareness of PrEP, and perceived risk of HIV were not associated with uptake intention. These findings support interventions that center on the role of providers in the provision of PrEP and on social networks in destigmatization of PrEP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K Scott
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA.
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Shawnika J Hull
- Department of Communication, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Jim C Huang
- Department of Business Management, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | | | - Peggy Ye
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Pam Lotke
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Patricia Moriarty
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA
| | - Dhikshitha Balaji
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA
| | - Allison Ward
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jennifer Holiday
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA
| | - Ashley R Brant
- Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Martha Cameron
- International Community of Women Living with HIV, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Adam Visconti
- MedStar Georgetown University, NW Washington, DC, USA
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15
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Starbuck L, Golub SA, Klein A, Harris AB, Guerra A, Rincon C, Radix AE. Brief Report: Transgender Women and Preexposure Prophylaxis Care: High Preexposure Prophylaxis Adherence in a Real-World Health Care Setting in New York City. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:15-19. [PMID: 35013087 PMCID: PMC8986585 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender women and trans feminine individuals (TGW/TFI) are a high priority population for the provision of HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care within the United States, but there is limited research that focuses specifically on PrEP adherence within this population. SETTING Observational study of patients prescribed PrEP at a community-based health center. METHODS We enrolled 100 TGW/TFI PrEP patients at a community health center during clinic visits. Adherence data were collected at 3 time points, using self-report surveys, patient interviews, and urine assays measuring tenofovir. Data were summarized descriptively. RESULTS The sample was diverse in age, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic characteristics. Participants demonstrated strong PrEP adherence; at least 80% of the sample reported 90% or greater adherence at each time point. Concordance between self-report and urine assay was high. Among patients who reported taking PrEP within the past 48 hours, 82%-92% had detectable urine tenofovir. However, many patients reported PrEP stop periods of 4 or more days (28%-39% per time point). CONCLUSIONS Our data highlight TGW/TFI's capacity to adhere to daily PrEP and sustain PrEP use over time. The concordance between patient self-report and urine TFV levels suggest that providers can trust patient reports of PrEP adherence behavior and support the use of adherence conversations in clinical settings, without the need for point of care biological monitoring. Findings also underscore the importance of continued attention to drivers of PrEP stops at the patient, clinic, and systems levels and the development of strategies that support sustained PrEP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lila Starbuck
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, 695 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Sarit A. Golub
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, 695 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Basic and Applied Social Psychology (BASP) PhD Program, Department of Psychology, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY USA
| | - Augustus Klein
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, 695 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | | | - Amiyah Guerra
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christopher Rincon
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, 695 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Asa E. Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, USA
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16
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Starbuck L, Golub SA, Klein A, Harris AB, Guerra A, Rincon C, Radix AE. Brief Report: Transgender Women and Preexposure Prophylaxis Care: High Preexposure Prophylaxis Adherence in a Real-World Health Care Setting in New York City. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022. [PMID: 35013087 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002915]] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender women and trans feminine individuals (TGW/TFI) are a high priority population for the provision of HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care within the United States, but there is limited research that focuses specifically on PrEP adherence within this population. SETTING Observational study of patients prescribed PrEP at a community-based health center. METHODS We enrolled 100 TGW/TFI PrEP patients at a community health center during clinic visits. Adherence data were collected at 3 time points, using self-report surveys, patient interviews, and urine assays measuring tenofovir. Data were summarized descriptively. RESULTS The sample was diverse in age, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic characteristics. Participants demonstrated strong PrEP adherence; at least 80% of the sample reported 90% or greater adherence at each time point. Concordance between self-report and urine assay was high. Among patients who reported taking PrEP within the past 48 hours, 82%-92% had detectable urine tenofovir. However, many patients reported PrEP stop periods of 4 or more days (28%-39% per time point). CONCLUSIONS Our data highlight TGW/TFI's capacity to adhere to daily PrEP and sustain PrEP use over time. The concordance between patient self-report and urine TFV levels suggest that providers can trust patient reports of PrEP adherence behavior and support the use of adherence conversations in clinical settings, without the need for point of care biological monitoring. Findings also underscore the importance of continued attention to drivers of PrEP stops at the patient, clinic, and systems levels and the development of strategies that support sustained PrEP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lila Starbuck
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY
| | - Sarit A Golub
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY
- Department of Psychology, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY; and
| | - Augustus Klein
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY
| | - Alexander B Harris
- Department of Medicine, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY
| | - Amiyah Guerra
- Department of Medicine, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY
| | - Christopher Rincon
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY
| | - Asa E Radix
- Department of Medicine, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY
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17
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Chandler R, Guillaume D, Wells J, Hernandez N. Let Me Prep You to PREP Me: Amplifying the Voices of Black Women and Their Providers to Consider PrEP as an HIV Prevention Option. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031414. [PMID: 35162438 PMCID: PMC8835000 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high efficacy of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in preventing HIV acquisition, PrEP uptake among Black cisgender women remains low. Our qualitative study assessed Black cisgender women's perspectives, attitudes, and acceptability towards PrEP, in addition to exploring PrEP-related attitudes, facilitators, and barriers to PrEP access among health care staff. This study was conducted to ascertain data to inform the development of our HIV prevention app-Savvy HER-which is being designed for Black cisgender women. Our findings indicated that Black women had low levels of PrEP acceptability and high levels of misconceptions, inaccurate knowledge, and stigma towards PrEP. Health care providers in our sample confirmed barriers of stigma, misconceptions, and knowledge among their patients coupled with difficulty accessing PrEP due to structural barriers. Our study indicated that there is a critical need to heighten Black cisgender women's PrEP knowledge and HIV risk perception in order to increase PrEP acceptability and uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasheeta Chandler
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (R.C.); (J.W.)
| | - Dominique Guillaume
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (R.C.); (J.W.)
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Jessica Wells
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (R.C.); (J.W.)
| | - Natalie Hernandez
- Community Health and Preventative Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA;
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18
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Owens C, Moran K, Mongrella M, Moskowitz DA, Mustanski B, Macapagal K. "It's Very Inconvenient for Me": A Mixed-Method Study Assessing Barriers and Facilitators of Adolescent Sexual Minority Males Attending PrEP Follow-Up Appointments. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:21-34. [PMID: 34081237 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03313-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Researching PrEP retention in adolescent sexual minority men (ASMM) is critical to increasing persistence of PrEP in this priority population, yet this research is lacking. ASMM (N = 1433) completed a baseline survey for an online HIV prevention program between 2018 and 2020. Open- and closed-ended survey items identified their beliefs about attending 3-month PrEP follow-up appointments and examined the association of Andersen's Behavioral Model factors (predisposing, enabling, and need) and confidence to attend these appointments. Qualitative and quantitative findings show that perceived parental support is a salient factor in ASMM attending PrEP follow-up appointments. Participants did not want to have to go to the doctor and get bloodwork done trimonthly, and qualitative findings elucidated rationales for this, such as perceptions that follow-ups might be time-consuming, costly, and could out their sexuality to their parents. This study suggests that parents are gatekeepers for ASMM to initiate and sustain the PrEP care continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Owens
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Kevin Moran
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Melissa Mongrella
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - David A Moskowitz
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, 633 N. Saint Clair St, 19th Floor , Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, 633 N. Saint Clair St, 19th Floor , Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Kathryn Macapagal
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, 633 N. Saint Clair St, 19th Floor , Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
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19
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Kerr J, Combs R, Ayangeakaa S, Harris L, Bullock N, Sterrett-Hong E, Parker K. Examining Factors that Impact Intentions to Use Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among African-American Young Adults. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:2933-2941. [PMID: 34637047 PMCID: PMC9007631 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-01974-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a biomedical HIV prevention strategy with potential to reduce racial HIV disparities. However, African-Americans have not received the benefits of PrEP to the same extent as other groups. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) was employed to explain intentions to use PrEP among a sample of African-Americans (age 18-29) in Louisville, Kentucky. Data were derived from the Afya Project, a study examining PrEP-focused HIV prevention for African-American young adults. The sample was developed through respondent-driven sampling and participants (N = 181) completed audio computer-assisted self-interviews assessing demographics and TPB variables. Analysis of variance was used to examine relationships between demographics and PrEP intentions. Linear regressions determined associations between control beliefs, attitudes, norms, and PrEP use intentions. Confidence in using PrEP (p ≤ .0001), perceived HIV risk (p ≤ 0.05), perceived likelihood of acquiring HIV (p ≤ 0.05), and positive norms around PrEP (p ≤ 0.05) were significantly associated with PrEP use intentions. Findings can inform interventions to advance PrEP as a HIV prevention option for African-American populations at higher risk of contracting HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelani Kerr
- University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, 485 E Gray St, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
| | - Ryan Combs
- University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, 485 E Gray St, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Suur Ayangeakaa
- University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, 485 E Gray St, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Lesley Harris
- Kent School of Social Work at the University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Nana Bullock
- University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, 485 E Gray St, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Emma Sterrett-Hong
- Kent School of Social Work at the University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Kimberly Parker
- University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, 485 E Gray St, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
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20
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Kota KK, Mansergh G, Stephenson R, Hirshfield S, Sullivan P. Sociodemographic Characteristics of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Use and Reasons for Nonuse Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men from Three US Cities. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2021; 35:158-166. [PMID: 33901403 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2020.0261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive medication that could reduce new infections among men who have sex with men (MSM). There are limited data on differing reasons for PrEP nonuse by condomless anal sex (CAS). We examined demographic and behavioral variables associated with PrEP use and reasons for PrEP nonuse by CAS. Data are from the M-cubed Study, collected in a 2018 baseline assessment of MSM (n = 798) in Atlanta, Detroit, and New York City. Participants reported current PrEP use (31%), previous use (8%), and never use (61%). MSM reporting CAS [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.60, confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.73-3.91], age 18-29 (aOR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.26-3.52), 30-39 (aOR = 2.12, 95% CI = 1.25-3.59), with a college degree (aOR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.20-3.21), or postgraduate education (aOR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.51-4.40) had greater odds of current (vs. never) use; uninsured (aOR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.16-0.57) men had lower odds of current (vs. never) use. For never use, more MSM who reported CAS (vs. did not) endorsed the following reasons (p's < 0.05): Insurance wouldn't cover PrEP (20% vs. 12%), Didn't know where to get it (33% vs. 24%) and fewer reported Didn't need PrEP (23% vs. 39%) and Started a committed relationship (7% vs. 25%). For discontinuation, more MSM who reported CAS (vs. did not) endorsed Worry about the safety of PrEP (19% vs. 3%). Efforts are needed to enhance PrEP as an option among older, less educated, and uninsured MSM. These findings may inform how providers can facilitate PrEP use by messaging on access and safety for MSM who reported CAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Kiran Kota
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Gordon Mansergh
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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21
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22
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Phillips Ii G, McCuskey DJ, Felt D, Raman AB, Hayford CS, Pickett J, Shenkman J, Lindeman PT, Mustanski B. Geospatial perspectives on health: The PrEP4Love campaign and the role of local context in health promotion messaging. Soc Sci Med 2020; 265:113497. [PMID: 33187750 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) remains one of the most effective biomedical interventions for the prevention of HIV transmission. However, uptake among populations most impacted by the HIV epidemic remains low. La rge-scale awareness and mobilization campaigns have sought to address gaps in knowledge and motivation in order to improve PrEP diffusion. Such campaigns must be cognizant of the historical, physical, and structural contexts in which they exist. In urban contexts, neighborhood segregation has the potential to impact health outcomes and amplify disparities. Therefore, we present novel geospatial approaches to the evaluation of a Chicago-based PrEP messaging campaign (PrEP4Love) in a 2018 cohort of men who have sex with men and transgender women, contextualizing results within the localized infrastructure and public health landscape, and examining associations between geographic location and campaign efficacy. Results revealed notable variance in rates of PrEP uptake associated with campaign exposure by Chicago planning area, which are likely explained by the historical and contemporary impacts of racist structures on physical environment and city infrastructure. Findings have important implications for the evaluation and implementation of future messaging campaigns, which should take the unique historical, structural, and geospatial factors of their particular settings into account in order to achieve maximum impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Phillips Ii
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - David J McCuskey
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Dylan Felt
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Anand B Raman
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Christina S Hayford
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jim Pickett
- AIDS Foundation of Chicago, 200 W. Monroe St., Suite 1150, Chicago, IL, 60606, USA
| | - Julia Shenkman
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Peter T Lindeman
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, 625 N Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
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23
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Calabrese SK. Understanding, Contextualizing, and Addressing PrEP Stigma to Enhance PrEP Implementation. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2020; 17:579-588. [PMID: 32965576 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00533-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a safe and effective preventive intervention that could play a central role in ending the HIV epidemic. However, low uptake in general, and among certain social groups in particular, underscores the need to identify and address barriers to PrEP use. PrEP stigma has emerged as a key factor interfering with PrEP interest, uptake, and continuation. The purpose of this article is to describe and contextualize PrEP stigma and to offer recommendations on how to address it in future PrEP implementation initiatives. RECENT FINDINGS PrEP users are commonly stereotyped as sexually irresponsible, promiscuous, and immoral. These stereotypes and associated prejudice manifest at multiple levels and discourage PrEP interest and uptake, disrupt PrEP adherence, and motivate PrEP discontinuation. Intersecting forms of stigma may influence the nature, magnitude, and impact of PrEP stigma across social groups and otherwise hinder PrEP use. Current PrEP implementation strategies that narrowly focus on risk and target stigmatized groups with disproportionately high HIV incidence have yielded limited success and are counterproductive to the extent that they perpetuate stigma. Implementation strategies involving more inclusive messaging and further integration of PrEP within healthcare may help to reduce PrEP stigma and mitigate its impact, ultimately increasing PrEP use. PrEP stigma is a barrier to PrEP interest, uptake, and continuation that manifests at multiple levels. Understanding and addressing PrEP stigma requires consideration of its origins and intersections. Targeted, risk-focused implementation strategies perpetuate stigma and undermine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Calabrese
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The George Washington University, 2125 G Street NW, Washington, DC, 20052, USA. .,Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 20052, USA.
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24
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Wilson EC, Turner CM, Arayasirikul S, Lightfoot M, Scheer S, Raymond HF, Liu A. Disparities in the PrEP continuum for trans women compared to MSM in San Francisco, California: results from population-based cross-sectional behavioural surveillance studies. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 3:e25539. [PMID: 32602642 PMCID: PMC7325513 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although transgender women (trans women) often are conflated with men who have sex with men (MSM) in HIV research and services, there are distinct population differences that are important for implementing effective HIV prevention. Our objective was to examine pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) disparities between the two populations and compare individual, social and structural factors that influence differences between MSM and trans women along the PrEP continuum. METHODS We analysed data from two population-based studies, one with trans women (Trans*National Study, 2016 - 18) and the other with MSM (National HIV Behavioral Surveillance, 2017). Trans women were recruited via respondent-driven sampling and MSM using time location sampling. Key indicators of the PrEP continuum were evaluated, including awareness, health insurance, provider discussions, recent use and adherence. Associations were also examined for PrEP continuum indicators and structural barriers (e.g. employment, homelessness). RESULTS Transwomen were more likely than MSM to be Latino/a (30.4% vs. 25.8%; prevalence ratio (PR)=1.08, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.14) or African American (7.1% vs. 4.5%; PR = 1.12, 1.02 to 1.24), live at or below the poverty limit (70.7% vs. 15.8%; PR = 1.47; 1.41 to 1.53), be unemployed (50.1% vs. 26.3%; PR = 1.18, 1.13 to 1.24), be homeless (8.4% vs. 3.5%; PR = 1.15, 1.06 to 1.25) and to have less than a college degree (PR = 1.41, 1.34 to 1.48). Trans women were more likely than MSM to have health insurance (95.7% vs. 89.7%, PR = 1.17, 1.06 to 1.28), but less likely than MSM to have heard of PrEP (79.1% vs. 96.7%; PR = 0.77, 0.73 to 0.81), talked with a provider about PrEP (35.5% vs. 54.9%; PR = 0.87, 0.83 to 0.91) and less likely than MSM to have used PrEP in the past six months (14.6% vs. 39.8%; PR = 0.80, 0.76 to 0.84). Among PrEP users, trans women were less likely to report being adherent to PrEP than MSM (70.4% vs. 87.4%; PR = 0.80, 0.70 to 0.91). CONCLUSIONS We found PrEP disparities for trans women compared to MSM and the need for differentiated implementation strategies to meet the specific PrEP barriers trans women face. Inclusion of trans women's HIV risks is needed in CDC guidance for PrEP. Interventions to increase trans women's awareness of PrEP including at the provider and community level are also needed. Finally, programming that addresses trans women's barriers to housing and income is also needed to reduce PrEP disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C Wilson
- Center for Public Health ResearchSan Francisco Department of Public HealthSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Caitlin M Turner
- Center for Public Health ResearchSan Francisco Department of Public HealthSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Sean Arayasirikul
- Center for Public Health ResearchSan Francisco Department of Public HealthSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Marguerita Lightfoot
- Division of Prevention ScienceCenter for AIDS Prevention StudiesUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Susan Scheer
- HIV EpidemiologySan Francisco Department of Public HealthSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | | | - Albert Liu
- Bridge HIVSan Francisco Department of Public HealthSan FranciscoCAUSA
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25
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Radix AE, Harris AB, Goldstein ZG. How can we improve uptake of oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis for transgender individuals? Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 18:835-838. [PMID: 32316773 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2020.1759418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Asa E Radix
- Department of Medicine, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander B Harris
- Department of Research and Education, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center , New York, NY, USA
| | - Zil G Goldstein
- Department of Medicine, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center , New York, NY, USA
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