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Patel N, Morris S, Burke L, Chow K, Pacheco D, Anderson P, Stancyzk F, Blumenthal J. No observed bidirectional effect between tenofovir diphosphate concentrations and gender-affirming hormone concentrations among transgender persons switching from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine to tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2024; 90:2360-2365. [PMID: 38646796 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.16071] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Many transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals have expressed concerns about the potential for oral pre-exposure prophylaxis to affect hormonal concentrations achieved from taking gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). The purpose of this study was to understand the bidirectional effects between hormone and intraerythrocytic tenofovir diphosphate concentrations when switching from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) to tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine (TAF/FTC) in TGD users/nonusers of GAHT. METHODS The study evaluated stored blood samples and dried blood spot cards from TGD adults without HIV who took ≥12 weeks of TDF/FTC and then switched to ≥12 weeks of TAF/FTC for pre-exposure prophylaxis. RESULTS Thirty-nine individuals met the study inclusion criteria. Regardless of sex assigned at birth and the use of GAHT, there were no significant differences in hormone concentrations when individuals taking GAHT were taking TDF/FTC and then switched to TAF/FTC. Further, there was no significant difference in intraerythrocytic tenofovir diphosphate concentrations between users and nonusers of GAHT. CONCLUSION There are no bidirectional effects between hormone and intraerythocytic tenofovir diphosphate concentrations when switching from TDF/FTC to TAF/FTC in TGD users/nonusers of GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimish Patel
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sheldon Morris
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Leah Burke
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Karen Chow
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Deedee Pacheco
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Peter Anderson
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Frank Stancyzk
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jill Blumenthal
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Mujugira A, Karungi B, Nakyanzi A, Bagaya M, Nsubuga R, Sebuliba T, Nampewo O, Naddunga F, Birungi JE, Sapiri O, Nyanzi KR, Bambia F, Muwonge T, Gandhi M, Haberer JE. Peer-Delivered HIV Self-Testing, Sexually Transmitted Infection Self-Sampling, and Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for Transgender Women in Uganda: A Randomized Trial. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 97:125-132. [PMID: 39250646 PMCID: PMC11384309 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peer-delivered HIV self-testing (HIVST) and sexually transmitted infection self-sampling (STISS) may promote adherence to oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), but no studies have analyzed this approach among transgender women (TGW) in sub-Saharan Africa. SETTING The Peer study was a cluster randomized trial in Uganda (October 2020-July 2022; NCT04328025). METHODS Ten TGW peer groups, each with 1 TGW peer and 8 TGW, were randomized 1:1 to receive quarterly in-clinic HIV testing with PrEP refills as standard-of-care (SOC) or SOC plus monthly peer delivery of oral-fluid HIVST, STISS, and PrEP refills (intervention). Participants were followed for 12 months. The primary outcome was PrEP adherence. RESULTS We screened 85 TGW and enrolled 82 (41 per arm). The median age was 22 years (interquartile range [IQR] 20-24). Twelve-month retention was 88% (72/82). At the 3, 6, 9, and 12-month clinic visits, 10%, 5%, 5%, and 0% of TGW in the intervention arm had TFV-DP levels ≥700 fmol/punch, versus 7%, 15%, 7%, and 2% in the SOC arm, respectively (P = 0.18). At all visits, any detectable TFV-DP levels were significantly higher in SOC than the peer delivery group (P < 0.04). PrEP adherence was associated with sex work (incidence rate ratio 6.93; 95% CI: 2.33 to 20.60) and >10 years of schooling (incidence rate ratio 2.35; 95% CI: 1.14 to 4.84). There was a strong correlation between tenofovir detection in dried blood spots and urine (P < 0.001). No HIV seroconversions occurred. CONCLUSIONS Peer-delivered HIVST and STISS did not increase low levels of oral PrEP adherence among TGW in Uganda. Long-acting PrEP formulations should be considered for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Mujugira
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Agnes Nakyanzi
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Monica Bagaya
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rogers Nsubuga
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Timothy Sebuliba
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Olivia Nampewo
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Faith Naddunga
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet E Birungi
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Oliver Sapiri
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kikulwe R Nyanzi
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Felix Bambia
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Timothy Muwonge
- Research Department, The Infectious Diseases Institute Limited, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Monica Gandhi
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
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Shah HS, Serrano PA, Mathur PK, Albarran R, Hondal ET, Miguel CS, Curtis MG, Phillips Ii G. PrEPárate: Evaluation of a Community-Driven PrEP Social Marketing Intervention Tailored to Latino/a/x Individuals. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04484-y. [PMID: 39347892 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04484-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Latino/a/x sexual minority men (SMM) and transgender women remain disproportionately impacted by HIV, with higher HIV incidence and lower uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) than their non-Hispanic White peers. Disparities in PrEP uptake among Latino/a/x populations have been found to be due to structural, social, and personal barriers. Social marketing interventions have been shown to effectively address barriers and increase PrEP uptake in other populations, and thus offer potential as a tool to increase PrEP uptake for Latino/a/x populations. The PrEPárate campaign was developed through community based participatory research and ran from April to September 2022 in Cook County, Illinois. We conducted a mixed methods evaluation through surveys (N = 515) and semi-structured interviews with survey participants and community partners (N = 14). We examined cross-sectional associations of campaign exposure with PrEP awareness and uptake in adjusted multivariable regression models. We used rapid qualitative methods to analyze interviews and assess implementation outcomes following the RE-AIM framework. The campaign reached over 118,000 people on social media, with additional reach over public transit and local events. PrEPárate exposure was associated with increased PrEP awareness (aOR = 5.23; 95% CI [2.58, 10.63]) and PrEP uptake (aOR = 1.69; 95% CI [1.09, 2.62]). Survey respondents expressed that the campaign name, visuals, ambassadors, and distribution were effective in engaging the target audience. Community partners felt the campaign was implemented with fidelity to the original vision and identified future directions for PrEPárate. Social marketing campaigns, anchored in community engagement, may be an effective strategy to increase PrEP awareness and uptake among underserved Latino/a/x populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harita S Shah
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Ave., MC 3051, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Pedro A Serrano
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Priya K Mathur
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Ave., MC 3051, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Esbeidy Torres Hondal
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Ave., MC 3051, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Cindy San Miguel
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael G Curtis
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Gregory Phillips Ii
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Crepaz N, Peters O, Higa DH, Mullins MM, Collins CB. Identifying Effective Strategies for Improving Engagement in HIV Prevention and Care Among Transgender Persons in the United States: A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04473-1. [PMID: 39230617 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04473-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
This systematic review synthesized published literature (2000 - 2023) to identify HIV interventions specifically designed for transgender persons in the United States (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021256460). The review also summarized strategies for improving outcomes related to the four pillars of the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative in the United States: Diagnose, Treat, Prevent, and Respond. A comprehensive search was conducted using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's HIV Prevention Research Synthesis Project database, which included over 120,000 citations from routine systematic searches in CINAHL, EMBASE, Global Health, MEDLINE, PsycInfo, and Sociological Abstracts. Of 23 interventions that met inclusion criteria, 94% focused on transgender women of color and 22% focused on young transgender persons aged 15-29 years old. Most interventions focused on Treat or Prevent, few focused on Diagnosis, and none focused on Respond. Twenty interventions (87%) showed improvement in at least one EHE related outcome and a quarter of these effective interventions were tested with randomized controlled trials. Common strategies observed in effective interventions include the following: engaging the community in intervention development; pilot-testing with the focus population to ensure appropriateness and acceptability; addressing social determinants of health (e.g. stigma, discrimination, violence) through empowerment and gender-affirming approaches; increasing access to care, prevention, and services through co-location and one-stop shop models; and utilizing peer-led counseling, education, support, and navigation. Continuous effort is needed in addressing gaps, including more research for transgender men and rural settings and for how best to adopt and adapt best practices for subgroups of transgender population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Crepaz
- Division of HIV Prevention, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., MS H24-5, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA.
| | - Olivia Peters
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Darrel H Higa
- Division of HIV Prevention, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., MS H24-5, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Mary M Mullins
- Division of HIV Prevention, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., MS H24-5, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Charles B Collins
- Division of HIV Prevention, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., MS H24-5, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
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Naz-McLean S, Clark J, Huerta L, Mayer KH, Lama JR, Reisner S, Perez-Brumer A. Social, economic, and physical side effects impact PrEP uptake and persistence among transgender women in Peru. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1985. [PMID: 39054504 PMCID: PMC11270771 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19474-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-1 infection is over 99% effective in protecting against HIV acquisition when used consistently and appropriately. However, PrEP uptake and persistent use remains suboptimal, with a substantial gap in utilization among key populations who could most benefit from PrEP. In Latin America specifically, there is poor understanding of barriers to PrEP uptake and persistence among transgender (trans) women. METHODS In April-May 2018, we conducted qualitative interviews lasting 25-45 min as part of an end-of-project evaluation of TransPrEP, a pilot RCT that examined the impact of a social network-based peer support intervention on PrEP adherence among trans women in Lima, Peru. Participants in the qualitative evaluation, all adult trans women, included individuals who either (1) screened eligible to participate in the TransPrEP pilot, but opted not to enroll (n = 8), (2) enrolled, but later withdrew (n = 6), (3) were still actively enrolled at the time of interview and/or successfully completed the study (n = 16), or (4) were study staff (n = 4). Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Codebook development followed an immersion/crystallization approach, and coding was completed using Dedoose. RESULTS Evaluation participants had a mean age of 28.2 years (range 19-47). When describing experiences taking PrEP, participant narratives highlighted side effects that spanned three domains: physical side effects, such as prolonged symptoms of gastrointestinal distress or somnolence; economic challenges, including lost income due to inability to work; and social concerns, including interpersonal conflicts due to HIV-related stigma. Participants described PrEP use within a broader context of social and economic marginalization, with a focus on daily survival, and how PrEP side effects negatively contributed to these stressors. Persistence was, in some cases, supported through the intervention's educational workshops. CONCLUSION This research highlights the ways that physical, economic, and social side effects of PrEP can impact acceptability and persistence among trans women in Peru, amplifying and layering onto existing stressors including economic precarity. Understanding the unique experiences of trans women taking PrEP is crucial to informing tailored interventions to improve uptake and persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Naz-McLean
- Department of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jesse Clark
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Javier R Lama
- Asociacion Civil Impacta Salud y Educacion, Lima, Peru
| | - Sari Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Amaya Perez-Brumer
- Division of Social and Behavioural Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Tordoff DM, Restar A, Minalga B, Fernandez A, Dimitrov D, Duerr A. Including transgender populations in mathematical models for HIV treatment and prevention: current barriers and policy implications. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26304. [PMID: 38867431 PMCID: PMC11168965 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26304] [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: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mathematical models of HIV have been uniquely important in directing and evaluating HIV policy. Transgender and nonbinary people are disproportionately impacted by HIV; however, few mathematical models of HIV transmission have been published that are inclusive of transgender and nonbinary populations. This commentary discusses current structural challenges to developing robust and accurate trans-inclusive models and identifies opportunities for future research and policy, with a focus on examples from the United States. DISCUSSION As of April 2024, only seven published mathematical models of HIV transmission include transgender people. Existing models have several notable limitations and biases that limit their utility for informing public health intervention. Notably, no models include transgender men or nonbinary individuals, despite these populations being disproportionately impacted by HIV relative to cisgender populations. In addition, existing mathematical models of HIV transmission do not accurately represent the sexual network of transgender people. Data availability and quality remain a significant barrier to the development of accurate trans-inclusive mathematical models of HIV. Using a community-engaged approach, we developed a modelling framework that addresses the limitations of existing model and to highlight how data availability and quality limit the utility of mathematical models for transgender populations. CONCLUSIONS Modelling is an important tool for HIV prevention planning and a key step towards informing public health interventions, programming and policies for transgender populations. Our modelling framework underscores the importance of accurate trans-inclusive data collection methodologies, since the relevance of these analyses for informing public health decision-making is strongly dependent on the validity of the model parameterization and calibration targets. Adopting gender-inclusive and gender-specific approaches starting from the development and data collection stages of research can provide insights into how interventions, programming and policies can distinguish unique health needs across all gender groups. Moreover, in light of the data structure limitations, designing longitudinal surveillance data systems and probability samples will be critical to fill key research gaps, highlight progress and provide additional rigour to the current evidence. Investments and initiatives like Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States can be further expanded and are highly needed to prioritize and value transgender populations across funding structures, goals and outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M. Tordoff
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- School of MedicineStanford UniversityPalo AltoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Arjee Restar
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | | | | | - Dobromir Dimitrov
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Applied MathematicsUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Ann Duerr
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer CenterSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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de Sousa Mascena Veras MA, Menezes NP, Mocello AR, Leddy AM, Saggese GSR, Bassichetto KC, Gilmore HJ, de Carvalho PGC, Maschião LF, Neilands TB, Sevelius J, Lippman SA. Correlation between gender-based violence and poor treatment outcomes among transgender women living with HIV in Brazil. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:791. [PMID: 38481195 PMCID: PMC10938823 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18224-3] [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: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender women are disproportionately affected by both HIV and gender-based violence (GBV), defined as physical, sexual, or emotional violence perpetrated against an individual based on their gender identity/expression. While a growing body of evidence demonstrates that GBV leads to poor HIV care and treatment outcomes among cisgender women, less research has examined this association among transgender women. We assessed the impact of lifetime experiences of GBV on subsequent retention in HIV care and laboratory confirmed viral suppression among a sample of transgender women living with HIV (TWH) in Brazil. METHODS A pilot trial of a peer navigation intervention to improve HIV care and treatment among TWH was conducted in São Paulo, Brazil between 2018 and 2019. TWH were recruited and randomized into the intervention or control arm and participated in a baseline and 9-month follow-up survey and ongoing extraction of clinical visit, prescribing, and laboratory data. Generalized linear model regressions with a Poisson distribution estimated the relative risk (RR) for the association of lifetime physical and sexual violence reported at baseline with treatment outcomes (retention in HIV care and viral suppression) at follow-up, adjusting for baseline sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS A total of 113 TWH participated in the study. At baseline, median age was 30 years, and the prevalence of lifetime physical and sexual violence was 62% and 45%, respectively. At follow-up, 58% (n = 66/113) were retained in care and 35% (n = 40/113) had evidence of viral suppression. In adjusted models, lifetime physical violence was non-significantly associated with a 10% reduction in retention in care (aRR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.67, 1.22) and a 31% reduction in viral suppression (aRR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.43, 1.11). Lifetime sexual violence was non-significantly associated with a 28% reduction in retention in HIV care (aRR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.52, 1.00) and significantly associated with a 56% reduction in viral suppression (aRR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.79). CONCLUSION Our findings are among the first to demonstrate that lifetime experiences with physical and sexual violence are associated with poor HIV outcomes over time among transgender women. Interventions seeking to improve HIV treatment outcomes should assess and address experiences of GBV among this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03525340.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neia Prata Menezes
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Adrienne Rain Mocello
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Anna M Leddy
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Gustavo Santa Roza Saggese
- Department of Collective Health, Santa Casa School of Medical Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Hailey J Gilmore
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Luca Fasciolo Maschião
- Department of Collective Health, Santa Casa School of Medical Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Jae Sevelius
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Sheri A Lippman
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
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Ard KL, MacDonald-Ly A, Demidont AC. Sexual Health Care for Transgender and Gender Diverse People. Med Clin North Am 2024; 108:393-402. [PMID: 38331487 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2023.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
The proportion of people who identify as transgender and gender diverse (TGD) is increasing. Health care for TGD people, including sexual health care, must affirm and respect patients' gender identities and expressions. Here, the authors outline strategies to make health care settings more welcoming to and inclusive of TGD people and describe concrete steps to improve sexual health care for TGD populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin L Ard
- Harvard Medical School; Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Andrew MacDonald-Ly
- Gilead Sciences, Inc, HIV Global Medical Affairs, 333 Lakeside Drive, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - A C Demidont
- Gilead Sciences, Inc, HIV Treatment Medical Affairs, 333 Lakeside Drive, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
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Morris E, Teplinskaya A, Olansky E, Rinderle JK, Chapin-Bardales J. Characteristics Associated with Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Discussion and Use Among Transgender Women Without HIV Infection - National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Among Transgender Women, Seven Urban Areas, United States, 2019-2020. MMWR Suppl 2024; 73:9-20. [PMID: 38261546 PMCID: PMC10826686 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.su7301a2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
CDC recommends pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for transgender women who have sex with men and who report sexual behaviors that place them at substantial ongoing risk for HIV exposure, including those who engage in nonsterile syringe sharing. Providing transgender women with access to PrEP is a critical strategy for reducing HIV acquisition and ending the HIV epidemic. Survey results from the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Among Transgender Women were used to assess characteristics associated with past-year discussions of PrEP with a health care provider and PrEP use. Bivariate analyses were conducted to assess the association between covariates (sociodemographic, HIV-associated characteristics, and gender-affirming care) and each outcome, accounting for sampling design. All covariates that were statistically significant at p<0.05 in the bivariate analyses were included in multivariate models, and manual backward elimination was used to obtain final models that retained statistically significant covariates. Among 902 transgender women from seven urban areas in the United States without HIV infection in the analyses, 57% had recently discussed PrEP with a health care provider, and 32% recently had used PrEP. In the final multivariate model, the following subgroups of transgender women were more likely to report recent PrEP use: those who identified as Black or African American or Hispanic or Latina, had two or more sex partners in the past 12 months, had condomless sex in the past 12 months, reported their last sex partner was infected with HIV, had condomless sex with their last sex partner whose HIV status was positive or unknown, ever had transgender-specific health care, and currently had transgender-specific health insurance coverage. Participants who were less likely to have recently used PrEP were those who wanted to but were not currently taking hormones and those aged <40 years. Providing increased access to gender-affirming care and training health care providers who serve transgender women to incorporate PrEP into existing services might increase PrEP use among transgender women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Among Transgender Women Study Group
- Behavioral and Clinical Surveillance Branch, Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia; Social & Scientific Systems, Inc., Silver Spring, Maryland; Prevention Communication Branch, Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia
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Storholm ED, Ogunbajo A, Nacht CL, Opalo C, Horvath KJ, Lyman P, Flynn R, Reback CJ, Blumenthal J, Moore DJ, Bolan R, Morris S. Facilitators of PrEP Persistence among Black and Latinx Transgender Women in a PrEP Demonstration Project in Southern California. Behav Med 2024; 50:63-74. [PMID: 35993278 PMCID: PMC9943802 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2022.2105794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Black and Latinx transgender women in the United States (U.S.) are at disproportionately high risk for HIV. Although HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) reduces the risk of HIV infection, uptake and persistence (i.e., ability to continue taking PrEP over time) can be a challenge for Black and Latinx transgender women due to myriad social and structural forces. In this qualitative study, we present unique data on the facilitators of PrEP persistence from Black and Latinx transgender women who initiated PrEP and exhibited varying levels of persistence during a demonstration project in Southern California. PrEP persistence was assessed by collecting quantitative intracellular tenofovir-diphosphate (TFV-DP) levels on dried blood spot (DBS) samples collected at weeks 12 and 48. Informed by the socioecological framework, we conducted and analyzed interviews using qualitative content analysis to determine themes on the facilitators of PrEP persistence. Individual-level facilitators included the use of reminders, having high individual-level HIV risk perception, feeling empowered to take PrEP, and reporting having improved peace of mind and mental health because of taking PrEP. Interpersonal/Community-level facilitators included feeling motivation to prevent HIV in the community, motivation to prevent HIV in the context of sex work, and having high community-level risk perception. Structural-level facilitators included having positive experiences in affirming healthcare settings and having PrEP visits combined with other gender-related healthcare visits. Interventions aiming to increase PrEP uptake and persistence among Black and Latinx transgender women in the U.S. should harness the multiple levels of support exhibited by those who were able to start and persist on PrEP in the face of the myriad social and structural barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik D. Storholm
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University
- RAND Corporation
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Adedotun Ogunbajo
- RAND Corporation
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Cathy J. Reback
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles
- Friends Research Institute
| | - Jill Blumenthal
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine
| | - David J. Moore
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine
| | | | - Sheldon Morris
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine
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11
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Tordoff DM, Fernandez A, Perry NL, Heberling WB, Minalga B, Khosropour CM, Glick SN, Barbee LA, Duerr A. A Quantitative Intersectionality Analysis of HIV/STI Prevention and Healthcare Access Among Transgender and Nonbinary People. Epidemiology 2023; 34:827-837. [PMID: 37756272 PMCID: PMC10539029 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001669] [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] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender and nonbinary people experience substantial barriers to accessing healthcare, including prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (HIV/STI), due to structural inequities. We examined differences in insurance, HIV/STI prevalence, testing, and preexposure prophylaxis use among transgender and nonbinary people living in Washington State by race and ethnicity and gender. METHODS We pooled data from five 2019-2021 Washington State HIV/STI surveillance data sources to obtain a large and diverse sample of 1648 transgender and nonbinary participants. We calculated the risk difference (RD) for each outcome and used Poisson regression to estimate a surrogate measure of additive interaction-attributable proportion (AP)-that measures the proportion of the excess prevalence of the outcome observed at the intersection of gendered and racialized experience, beyond that expected from gender or race and ethnicity alone. RESULTS Participants reported overall high levels of poverty (29% incomes <$15,000 and 7% unstable housing). Certain groups, especially racial/ethnic minority transgender women, were disproportionately impacted by HIV/STIs (RDs from 20% to 43% and APs from 50% to 85%) and less likely to currently have insurance (RDs from 25% to 39% and APs from 74% to 93%) than that expected based on gendered or racialized experience alone. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the heterogeneity in insurance access, HIV/STI positivity, and prevention utilization within transgender communities. We observed that a large proportion of increased HIV/STI prevalence among racial/ethnic minority transgender women was attributable to the intersection of gender and race and ethnicity. Our findings highlight the importance of trans-inclusive models of HIV/STI prevention that address multilevel barriers rooted in cissexism and structural racism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M. Tordoff
- University of Washington, Department of Epidemiology, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Nicole Lynn Perry
- Lavender Rights Project, Washington Black Trans Task Force, Seattle, WA
| | | | | | | | - Sara N. Glick
- University of Washington, School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
- Public Health-Seattle & King County HIV/STD Program, Seattle, WA
| | - Lindley A. Barbee
- University of Washington, School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
- Public Health-Seattle & King County HIV/STD Program, Seattle, WA
| | - Ann Duerr
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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12
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Moncayo JE, Pérez-Arizabaleta MDM, Villegas-Trujillo LM, Rodríguez-Ortiz A. Adherence to Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Intervention by Transgender Women: A Systematic Review. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2023; 35:362-375. [PMID: 37843906 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2023.35.5.362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is higher in transgender populations. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) intervention is successful in reducing HIV acquisition. We aimed to investigate the adherence to oral PrEP by HIV-negative transgender women (TW). We followed the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the PRISMA Statement. We searched in WoS, OVID, Scopus, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Participation and adherence to the intervention were low for TW compared to cisgender men who have sex with men (cMSM), and it was measured mostly by self-report (72.7%) or tenofovir-diphosphate/emtricitabine triphosphate dried blood spot (45.5%). Awareness should increase and the effect of oral PrEP on gender-affirming hormone therapy should be explained to TW at the beginning of the trials. One limitation is that our sample size was dominated by two Thai studies with TW sex workers. Future studies should evaluate adherence to new PrEP modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - María Del Mar Pérez-Arizabaleta
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Antonio Nariño, Cali, Colombia
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia-Campus Cali
| | - Lina María Villegas-Trujillo
- Faculty of Health, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
- SIT Consulting-Science, Innovation & Technology, Cali, Colombia
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13
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Zamudio-Haas S, Koester K, Venegas L, Salinas A, Herrera C, Gutierrez-Mock L, Welborn L, Deutsch MB, Sevelius J. "Entre Nosotras:" a qualitative study of a peer-led PrEP project for transgender latinas. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1013. [PMID: 37730598 PMCID: PMC10510224 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09707-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uptake of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) remains low among transgender people as compared to other subgroups, despite high rates of HIV acquisition. In California, Latinx people comprise 40% of the population and Latina transgender women experience some of the highest burden of HIV of any subgroup, indicating a critical need for appropriate services. With funding from the California HIV/AIDS Research Programs, this academic-community partnership developed, implemented, and evaluated a PrEP project that co-located HIV services with gender affirming care in a Federally Qualified Heath Center (FQHC). Trans and Latinx staff led intervention adaptation and activities. METHODS This paper engages qualitative methods to describe how a PrEP demonstration project- Triunfo- successfully engaged Spanish-speaking transgender Latinas in services. We conducted 13 in-depth interviews with project participants and five interviews with providers and clinic staff. Interviews were conducted in Spanish or English. We conducted six months of ethnographic observation of intervention activities and recorded field notes. We conducted thematic analysis. RESULTS Beneficial elements of the intervention centered around three intertwined themes: creating trusted space, providing comprehensive patient navigation, and offering social support "entre nosotras" ("between us women/girls"). The combination of these factors contributed to the intervention's success supporting participants to initiate and persist on PrEP, many of whom had previously never received healthcare. Participants shared past experiences with transphobia and concerns around discrimination in a healthcare setting. Developing trust proved foundational to making participants feel welcome and "en casa/ at home" in the healthcare setting, which began from the moment participants entered the clinic and continued throughout their interactions with staff and providers. A gender affirming, bilingual clinician and peer health educators (PHE) played a critical part in intervention development, participant recruitment, and patient navigation. CONCLUSIONS Our research adds nuance to the existing literature on peer support services and navigation by profiling the multifaced roles that PHE served for participants. PHE proved instrumental to empowering participants to overcome structural and other barriers to healthcare, successfully engaging a group who previously avoided healthcare in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Zamudio-Haas
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA.
| | - Kim Koester
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Luz Venegas
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Ariana Salinas
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Cinthya Herrera
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Luis Gutierrez-Mock
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Layla Welborn
- La Clinica de La Raza, 3451 East 12th Street, CA, 94601, Oakland, USA
| | - Madeline B Deutsch
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Jae Sevelius
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
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14
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Lacombe-Duncan A, Hughson L, Kay ES, Duncan S, Willbrandt C. Peer-based interventions to support transgender and gender diverse people's health and healthcare access: A scoping review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2023; 25:321-351. [PMID: 39055627 PMCID: PMC11268238 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2023.2232353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Background: Pervasive health and healthcare disparities experienced by transgender (trans) and gender diverse (TGD) people require innovative solutions. Peer-based interventions may address disparities, and are an approach endorsed by TGD communities. However, the scope of the literature examining peer-based interventions to address health and healthcare access inclusive of TGD people is uncharted. Aim: This scoping review aimed to understand the extent of the literature about peer-based interventions conducted with and/or inclusive of TGD populations; specifically, study participants (e.g. sociodemographics), study designs/outcomes, intervention components (e.g. facilitator characteristics), and intervention effectiveness. Methods: Underpinned by Arksey and O'Malley's framework: (1) identifying the research question; (2) identifying studies; (3) study selection; (4) charting data; and (5) collating, summarizing, and reporting results, eligible studies were identified, charted, and thematically analyzed. Databases (e.g. ProQuest) and snowball searching were utilized to identify peer-reviewed literature published within 15 years of February 2023. Extracted data included overarching study characteristics (e.g. author[s]), methodological characteristics (e.g. type of research), intervention characteristics (e.g. delivery modality), and study findings. Results: Thirty-six eligible studies documented in 38 peer-reviewed articles detailing 40 unique peer-based interventions were identified. Forty-four percent (n = 16/36) of studies took place in United States (U.S.) urban centers. Over half (n = 23/40, 58%) focused exclusively on TGD people, nearly three-quarters of which (n = 17/23, 74%) focused exclusively on trans women/transfeminine people. Ninety-two percent (n = 33/36) included quantitative methods, of which 30% (n = 10/33) were randomized controlled trials. HIV was a primary focus (n = 30/36, 83.3%). Few interventions discussed promotion of gender affirmation for TGD participants. Most studies showed positive impacts of peer-based intervention. Discussion: Although promising in their effectiveness, limited peer-based interventions have been developed and/or evaluated that are inclusive of gender-diverse TGD people (e.g. trans men and nonbinary people). Studies are urgently need that expand this literature beyond HIV to address holistic needs and healthcare barriers among TGD communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Lacombe-Duncan
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Women’s College Hospital, Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Luna Hughson
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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15
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Restar A, Minalga BJ, Quilantang MI, Adamson T, Dusic E, van der Merwe LA, Millet G, Rosadiño D, Laguing T, Lett E, Everhart A, Phillips G, Janamnuaysook R, Seekaew P, Baker K, Ashley F, Wickersham J, Wallace SE, Operario D, Gamarel KE. Mapping Community-Engaged Implementation Strategies with Transgender Scientists, Stakeholders, and Trans-Led Community Organizations. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:160-169. [PMID: 37012537 PMCID: PMC10071255 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00656-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) represents one of the most effective methods of prevention for HIV, but remains inequitable, leaving many transgender and nonbinary (trans) individuals unable to benefit from this resource. Deploying community-engaged PrEP implementation strategies for trans populations will be crucial for ending the HIV epidemic. RECENT FINDINGS While most PrEP studies have progressed in addressing pertinent research questions about gender-affirming care and PrEP at the biomedical and clinical levels, research on how to best implement gender-affirming PrEP systems at the social, community, and structural levels remains outstanding. The science of community-engaged implementation to build gender-affirming PrEP systems must be more fully developed. Most published PrEP studies with trans people report on outcomes rather than processes, leaving out important lessons learned about how to design, integrate, and implement PrEP in tandem with gender-affirming care. The expertise of trans scientists, stakeholders, and trans-led community organizations is essential to building gender-affirming PrEP systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjee Restar
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | | | - Ma Irene Quilantang
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Tyler Adamson
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Emerson Dusic
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Leigh-Ann van der Merwe
- Social, Health and Empowerment Feminist Collective of Transgender Women of Africa, East London, South Africa
| | - Greg Millet
- The Foundation for AIDS Research, amfAR, amfAR, Washington, D.C, USA
| | | | - Tanya Laguing
- LoveYourself Inc, Manila, Philippines
- DIOSSA Inc, Taguig, Philippines
| | - Elle Lett
- Computational Health Informatics Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Avery Everhart
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gregory Phillips
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rena Janamnuaysook
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, Bangkok, Thailand
- Tangerine Community Health Clinic, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pich Seekaew
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kellan Baker
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Whitman-Walker Institute, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Florence Ashley
- Faculty of Law and Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Wickersham
- Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Stephaun E Wallace
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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16
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Wolfe HL, Drainoni ML, Klasko-Foster L, Fix GM, Siegel J, Mimiaga MJ, Reisner SL, Hughto JM. Structural Equation Modeling of Stigma and HIV Prevention Clinical Services Among Transgender and Gender Diverse Adults: The Mediating Role of Substance Use and HIV Sexual Risk. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:300-309. [PMID: 36515898 PMCID: PMC9974738 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adults experience high levels of stigma that contributes to elevated substance use and HIV sexual risk behaviors. Despite higher burdens of substance use and HIV compared to cisgender adults, TGD individuals may be less likely to engage in health care to avoid further discrimination. SETTING This analysis included 529 TGD adults in Massachusetts and Rhode Island who were HIV negative or had an unknown HIV serostatus and were purposively sampled between March and August 2019. METHODS We used structural equation modeling to test whether substance use, HIV sexual risk behaviors (ie, condom use, sex work, and multiple partners), and receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy mediate any observed association between TGD-related stigma and utilization of HIV prevention clinical services (ie, HIV prevention programs, PrEP use, and HIV testing). RESULTS Substance use and HIV sexual risk mediated the relationship between TGD-related stigma and utilization of HIV prevention clinical services (β = 0.08; 95% CI = 0.05, 0.17; P = 0.03 and β = 0.26; 95% CI = 0.14 to 0.37; P < 0.001). Having a hormone therapy prescription was not a mediator between TGD-related stigma and HIV prevention clinical services. CONCLUSIONS Future interventions that aim to improve HIV prevention clinical services among TGD adults should consider the impact of TGD-related stigma on participants' substance use and sexual risk behaviors. These efforts require that health care organizations and community organizations make a deliberate investment in the reach and success of interventions and programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hill L. Wolfe
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA
| | - Mari-Lynn Drainoni
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
- Evans Center for Implementation and Improvement Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - Lynne Klasko-Foster
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
| | - Gemmae M. Fix
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Jennifer Siegel
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
- Transgender Health Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Matthew J. Mimiaga
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Science, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- University of California Los Angeles Center for LGBTQ Advocacy, Research & Health, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Sari L. Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA
- General Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Jaclyn M.W. Hughto
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA
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17
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Storholm ED, Huang W, Ogunbajo A, Horvath KJ, Reback CJ, Blumenthal J, Moore DJ, Flynn RP, Bolan RK, Corado KC, Morris SR. Gender-Based Violence and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Predict HIV PrEP Uptake and Persistence Failure Among Transgender and Non-binary Persons Participating in a PrEP Demonstration Project in Southern California. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:745-759. [PMID: 36053404 PMCID: PMC9908815 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03807-1] [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] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Gender-based violence (GBV) against transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) persons is a pervasive public health issue. GBV has been linked to mental health problems such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well has risk for HIV seroconversion and HIV treatment nonadherence. However, the impact of GBV on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use among TGNB persons has yet to be investigated. In the current study we assessed longitudinal PrEP persistence data from dried blood spots (DBS) collected from 172 racially and ethnically diverse TGNB participants during a 48-week PrEP demonstration project in Southern California from June 2017 to September 2020. Participants were categorized into three levels of PrEP uptake and persistence based on their PrEP levels at the start and end of the study: low-low, high-low, and high-high. Individual-, social-, and structural-level variables were then entered into multinomial logistic regression models to predict levels of PrEP uptake and persistence based on hypotheses informed by syndemic and minority stress theories. The models demonstrated that experience of GBV predicted significantly lower odds of PrEP uptake and persistence and greater PTSD symptoms predicted significantly greater odds of early PrEP discontinuation. Higher levels of coping skills, already being on PrEP at baseline, and being in a steady relationship were associated with greater odds of PrEP uptake and persistence. Implications for future GBV research, advocacy, interventions, and much needed structural changes focused on improving the health and safety of TGNB individuals are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik D Storholm
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA.
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | | | - Adedotun Ogunbajo
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Cathy J Reback
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Friends Research Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jill Blumenthal
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - David J Moore
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Sheldon R Morris
- AntiViral Research Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
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18
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Sevelius JM, Castro DA, Warri V, Moreta Avila L, Chakravarty D, Zamudio-Haas S, Kramer K, Monico Klein K, Zack B. Adapting and Implementing an Evidence-Based Reentry Intervention for Incarcerated Transgender Women: Lessons Learned. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2023; 29:71-80. [PMID: 36595355 PMCID: PMC10162574 DOI: 10.1089/jchc.21.12.0132] [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] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Incarceration is a significant public health issue that disproportionately impacts transgender (trans) women, particularly those of color. The cycle of incarceration interacts with high levels of substance use, mental illness, and HIV to produce a high disease burden among trans women, but, to date, there are no published studies of trans-specific reentry support interventions. Informed by the Model of Gender Affirmation, we systematically adapted and pilot tested the evidence-based Project START intervention to create Girlfriends Connect (GC), a reentry support intervention for trans women incarcerated in a county jail. Qualitative interviews with trans women (10 prerelease and 6 postrelease) and community social service providers and jail staff (n = 7) who serve justice-involved transgender women, as well as input from a community advisory board, informed our adaptation. We then conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial (n = 14) and a service implementation project (n = 16) of GC to examine its feasibility and acceptability. Lessons learned include the importance of peer facilitators, facilitated referral to gender-affirming community resources, and obtaining programmatic buy-in from jail staff and administration. Results indicate that GC is feasible and acceptable, and holds promise in improving the health of transgender women reentering the community after a period of incarceration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae M. Sevelius
- Center of Excellence for Transgender Health, Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Danielle A. Castro
- Center of Excellence for Transgender Health, Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Vanessa Warri
- Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Deepalika Chakravarty
- Center of Excellence for Transgender Health, Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sophia Zamudio-Haas
- Center of Excellence for Transgender Health, Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Kate Monico Klein
- Jail Health Services, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Barry Zack
- The Bridging Group, Oakland, California, USA
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19
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Newman PA, Tepjan S, Fongkaew K, Akkakanjanasupar P, de Lind van Wijngaarden JW, Chonwanarat N. Multilevel Factors Impacting PrEP Engagement Among Young Gay Men and Young Transgender Women in Thailand: A Qualitative Analysis. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2023; 22:23259582231188221. [PMID: 37461326 DOI: 10.1177/23259582231188221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Half of new HIV infections in Thailand are among young people, the majority of whom are young gay and other men who have sex with men (YMSM) and young transgender women (YTGW). Amid low pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) coverage, we explored practice-based factors that impact PrEP engagement among YMSM and YTGW. In 2018, we conducted 4 focus group discussions with 20 YMSM and 5 YTGW, and 22 in-depth interviews (5 in 2022) with healthcare providers (HCPs), community-based organization (CBO)/nongovernmental organization (NGO) staff, and peer educators. The inclusion of PrEP in universal healthcare coverage, including YMSM and YTGW, is a substantial facilitator of PrEP use; however, systemic barriers at microsocial (lack of communication about PrEP from HCPs, teachers, parents), mesosocial (healthcare-service fragmentation, lack of PrEP-competent HCPs), and macrosocial levels (annual quotas on free HIV-testing, HIV- and sexual-stigma) constrain and disincentivize adolescents' engagement with PrEP. National scale-up of youth-friendly and LGBT-affirmative CBO/NGO clinics, HCP training, and tailored programs to support adolescents' adherence may promote PrEP engagement among YMSM and YTGW in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Newman
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Kangwan Fongkaew
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Burapha University, Chonburi, Thailand
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20
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Beer L, Tie Y, Dasgupta S, McManus T, Smith DK, Shouse RL. Trends in preexposure prophylaxis use among sex partners as reported by persons with HIV - United States, May 2015-June 2020. AIDS 2022; 36:2161-2169. [PMID: 36382435 PMCID: PMC11057891 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003366] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate trends in the proportion of sexually active U.S. adults with HIV (PWH) reporting an HIV-discordant sexual partner taking preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and proportion of partners taking PrEP. DESIGN The Medical Monitoring Project is a complex sample survey of U.S. adults with diagnosed HIV. METHODS We used annual cross-sectional data collected during June 2015-May 2020 to estimate the annual percentage change (EAPC), overall and by selected characteristics, in reported partner PrEP use among PWH with HIV-discordant partners (N = 8707) and reported PrEP use among these partners (N = 15 844). RESULTS The proportion of PWH reporting PrEP use by one or more HIV-discordant sex partner rose 19.5% annually (11.3 to 24.4%). The prevalence rose from 6.0 to 17.4% (EAPC, 25.8%) among Black PWH, 10.1 to 26.0% (EAPC, 19.5%) among Hispanic/Latino PWH, and 20.8 to 34.6% (EAPC, 16.3%) among White PWH. Among MSM with HIV, the prevalence increased from 9.6 to 32.6% (EAPC, 28.2%) among Black MSM, 16.6 to 36.0% (EAPC, 15.6%) among Hispanic/Latino MSM, and 24.9 to 44.1% (EAPC, 17.9%) among White MSM. Among HIV-discordant sex partners, the proportion reported to be taking PrEP increased 21.1% annually (7.8 to 18.8%). Reported PrEP use rose from 4.9 to 14.2% (EAPC, 29.9%) among Black partners, 6.5 to 16.8% (EAPC, 20.3%) among Hispanic/Latino partners, and 12.7 to 26.1% (EAPC, 17.0%) among White partners. CONCLUSIONS One in five HIV-discordant sexual partners of PWH was reported to be taking PrEP. PrEP use rose among all examined populations, although the increases did not eliminate disparities in PrEP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Beer
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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21
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Zhou L, Assanangkornchai S. Current Perspectives on the Determinants of Acceptability of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Nonoccupational Post-Exposure Prophylaxis among People at Risk for HIV: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12605. [PMID: 36231904 PMCID: PMC9565962 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and nonoccupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) were found to be effective HIV biomedical interventions. However, several barriers to acceptance of these interventions were discovered among populations at risk for HIV, and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may also exacerbate these. The current scoping review aims to update information in regards to facilitators and barriers for PrEP and nPEP acceptability among key populations collected in the past two years and to identify any existing knowledge gaps during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Of 1453 studies retrieved, 16 met the final inclusion criteria. The review synthesized a range of individual, PrEP-specific, psychosocial, and health system factors that may affect the acceptability of PrEP or nPEP. The conclusion from this scoping review is that more research is needed to enable a comprehensive understanding of the determinants of acceptability of PrEP and nPEP in the context of COVID-19, particularly among PWID and FSWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingmi Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
- Department of AIDS Control and Prevention, Guilin Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guilin 541000, China
| | - Sawitri Assanangkornchai
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
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22
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Lacombe‐Duncan A, Kattari L, Kattari SK, Scheim AI, Alexander F, Yonce S, Misiolek BA. HIV testing among transgender and nonbinary persons in Michigan, United States: results of a community-based survey. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25 Suppl 5:e25972. [PMID: 36225152 PMCID: PMC9557000 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transgender (trans) and nonbinary people (TNB) are disproportionately impacted by HIV. HIV testing is critical to engage TNB people in HIV prevention and care. Yet, scant literature has examined social and structural factors associated with HIV testing among TNB people of diverse genders and in geographies with potentially lower trans acceptance. We: (1) characterized the prevalence of never having been tested for HIV; and (2) identified associated factors, among TNB people in Michigan, United States. METHODS Data were from a community-based participatory cross-sectional survey (n = 539 sexually experienced TNB people). The prevalence of never having had an HIV test was reported overall and compared across socio-demographic, clinical, social and structural factors using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Approximately one-quarter (26.2%) of participants had never had an HIV test (20.8% transfeminine; 30.0% transmasculine; 17.8% nonbinary assigned male at-birth; and 32.0% nonbinary assigned female at-birth). In a multivariable socio-demographic model, older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for 1-year increase: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.96, p<0.001) and Black/African American race (vs. White) (aOR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.86, p<0.05) were associated with increased odds of HIV testing (aORs for never testing). In separate multivariable models controlling for socio-demographics, ever experiencing sexual violence (aOR: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.67, p<0.001), not accessed sexual/reproductive healthcare in the past 12 months (aOR: 4.46, 95% CI: 2.68, 7.43, p<0.001) and reporting a very/somewhat inclusive primary care provider (PCP) (aOR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.49, p<0.001) were associated with HIV testing (aORs for never testing). CONCLUSIONS Findings contribute to scant literature about gender-based differences in HIV testing inclusive of transmasculine and nonbinary people. Lack of statistically significant gender differences suggests that broad TNB interventions may be warranted. These could include training healthcare providers in trans-inclusive practices with sexual violence survivors and PCPs in trans-inclusive HIV prevention and care. Findings showing Black participants were less likely to have never had an HIV test suggest the promise of culturally tailored services, though further investigation is needed. Findings identify social and structural factors associated with HIV testing and can inform multi-level interventions to increase TNB person's HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leonardo Kattari
- School of Social Work, Michigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
| | - Shanna K. Kattari
- School of Social Work, University of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
- Department of Women's and Gender Studies, University of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Ayden I. Scheim
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Flyn Alexander
- School of Social Work, University of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Sophie Yonce
- Lyman Briggs College, Michigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
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Parikh UM, Koss CA, Mellors JW. Long-Acting Injectable Cabotegravir for HIV Prevention: What Do We Know and Need to Know about the Risks and Consequences of Cabotegravir Resistance? Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:384-393. [PMID: 36112336 PMCID: PMC9508028 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00616-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cabotegravir is a potent integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) recently approved as a long-acting injectable formulation for HIV prevention (CAB-LA). We summarize what is known about cabotegravir pharmacokinetics, activity, and emergence of resistance from in vitro, macaque and clinical studies, and we evaluate the risk of resistance from CAB-LA with on-time injections and after CAB-LA discontinuation. RECENT FINDINGS The accumulation of multiple INSTI mutations is required for high-level cabotegravir resistance, and the same mutation combinations may cause cross-resistance to dolutegravir, which is widely used for first-line antiretroviral therapy in low- and middle-income countries. Though CAB-LA was highly effective in preventing HIV, breakthrough infections did occur in trials of CAB-LA despite on-time injections, resulting in selection of single and combinations of INSTI resistance mutations. As CAB-LA is scaled-up, prompt HIV diagnosis to prevent resistance, and resistance monitoring could help preserve the effectiveness of INSTIs for both HIV treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urvi M Parikh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA.
| | - Catherine A Koss
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - John W Mellors
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA
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24
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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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25
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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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26
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Tordoff DM, Zangeneh S, Khosropour CM, Glick SN, McClelland RS, Dimitrov D, Reisner S, Duerr A. Geographic Variation in HIV Testing Among Transgender and Nonbinary Adults in the United States. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 89:489-497. [PMID: 35001041 PMCID: PMC9058176 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002909] [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: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender and nonbinary (TNB) populations are disproportionately affected by HIV and few local health departments or HIV surveillance systems collect/report data on TNB identities. Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of HIV testing among TNB adults by US county and state, with a focus on the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) geographies. METHODS We applied a Bayesian hierarchical spatial small area estimation model to data from the 2015 US Transgender Survey, a large national cross-sectional Internet-based survey. We estimated the county- and state-level proportion of TNB adults who ever tested or tested for HIV in the last year by gender identity, race/ethnicity, and age. RESULTS Our analysis included 26,100 TNB participants with valid zip codes who resided in 1688 counties (54% of all 3141 counties that cover 92% of the US population). The median county-level proportion of TNB adults who ever tested for HIV was 44% (range 10%-80%) and who tested in the last year was 17% (range 4%-44%). Within most counties, testing was highest among transgender women, black respondents, and people aged ≥25 years. HIV testing was lowest among nonbinary people and young adults aged <25 years. The proportion of TNB adults who tested within the last year was very low in most EHE counties and in all 7 rural states. CONCLUSIONS HIV testing among TNB adults is likely below national recommendations in the majority of EHE geographies. Geographic variation in HIV testing patterns among TNB adults indicates that testing strategies need to be tailored to local settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M. Tordoff
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Sahar Zangeneh
- RTI International, Seattle WA
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Sara N. Glick
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - R. Scott McClelland
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Sari Reisner
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, Harvard Medical School and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA
| | - Ann Duerr
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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27
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Gamarel KE, King WM, Operario D. Behavioral and social interventions to promote optimal HIV prevention and care continua outcomes in the United States. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2022; 17:65-71. [PMID: 35067595 PMCID: PMC8885930 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000717] [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] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review reports on trends in behavioral and social intervention research in the United States published over the past year (2020-2021) investigating HIV prevention and care outcomes, organized by the level of intervention focus - individual, dyadic, and organizational. RECENT FINDINGS Researchers have continued to develop and evaluate behavioral and social interventions to reduce HIV acquisition risk and disease progression. With few exceptions, social and behavioral interventions have primarily focused on individuals as the unit of behavior change. Interventions operating at the individual-, dyadic-, and organizational-level have made strides to reduce HIV transmission risk and disease progressing by addressing mental health, substance use, stigma, peer and romantic relationships, and, to some extent, structural vulnerabilities. SUMMARY Social and behavioral interventions continue to be critical in addressing HIV inequities in the United States. An important gap in the literature is the need for multilevel interventions designed and implemented within existing community-based organizations and local healthcare settings. We call on researchers to continue to attend to the structural, environmental, and economic vulnerabilities that shape HIV inequities in the development of multilevel approaches necessary to realize the full potential of existing and emerging HIV prevention and care strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi E. Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Wesley M. King
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
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28
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Christodoulou J, Fehrenbacher AE, Shaw EH, Vincent EM, Saleska JL. COVID-19 prevention behaviors, trust, and intent to vaccinate among youth at risk for HIV. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266321. [PMID: 35358278 PMCID: PMC8970374 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study examines COVID-19 prevention behaviors and vaccine intentions among 83 youth at high risk for HIV. Most youth self-identified as Latinx (52%), cisgender men (84%), and homosexual (66%). Youth self-reported COVID-19 prevention behaviors and intentions to vaccinate. Participants reported wearing face masks, washing hands, and staying six feet apart, but fewer reported leaving home only for essential needs. About one-third reported that they would not get a vaccine, and lack of trust in their doctors and the government were significantly associated with non-intention. To improve efforts towards herd immunity, interventions to improve health messaging from trusted sources for at-risk youth may be necessary to achieve higher vaccine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Christodoulou
- Department of Psychology, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, United Stated of America
| | - Anne E. Fehrenbacher
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth H. Shaw
- Department of Psychology, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, United Stated of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Eleanor M. Vincent
- Department of Psychology, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, United Stated of America
| | - Jessica L. Saleska
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
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