1
|
Shaw SA, Lee C, Ahmadi M, Karim Shor Muluk H, Mohamed Jibril Z, Ahmadi L, Randall L, Yang C, Gilbert L. A randomized controlled trial testing the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of a mental health Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment among refugees in Malaysia. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2023; 69:1898-1908. [PMID: 37326111 DOI: 10.1177/00207640231179323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among refugees residing in countries of first asylum, such as Malaysia, high rates of psychological distress call for creative intervention responses. AIMS This study examines implementation of a Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) model promoting emotional well-being and access to services. METHOD The one-session intervention was implemented in community settings by refugee facilitators during 2017 to 2020. 140 Participants including Afghan (n = 43), Rohingya (n = 41), and Somali (n = 56) refugees were randomized to receive either the intervention at baseline, or to a waitlist control group. At 30 days post-intervention, all participants completed a post-assessment. Additionally, after completing the intervention, participants provided feedback on SBIRT content and process. RESULTS Findings indicate the intervention was feasible to implement. Among the full sample, Refugee Health Screening-15 emotional distress scores reduced significantly among participants in the intervention group when compared to those in the waitlist control group. Examining findings by nationality, only Afghan and Rohingya participants in the intervention condition experienced significant reductions in distress scores compared to their counterparts in the control condition. Examining intervention effects on service access outcomes, only Somali participants in the intervention condition experienced significant increases in service access compared to the control condition. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate the potential value of this SBIRT intervention, warranting further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stacey A Shaw
- School of Social Work, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | - Maryam Ahmadi
- School of Social Work, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | | | - Latifa Ahmadi
- School of Social Work, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | | | - Louisa Gilbert
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mootz JJ, Fennig M, Giusto A, Mumey A, Greene CM, Wainberg ML. Interventions addressing family violence and mental illness or substance use in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2023; 10:e71. [PMID: 38024805 PMCID: PMC10643256 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2023.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Most family violence research has been conducted in high-income countries, although family violence rates are higher in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and outcomes more severe. Given the strong associations of family violence with substance use and mental illness, the aim of this systematic review was to examine interventions that targeted familial violence and at least one other condition of substance use or mental illness to determine effective treatments in LMICs. We conducted a systematic review of interventions that addressed family violence and mental illness or substance use. A committee of three researchers independently screened titles and abstracts and conducted full-text eligibility assessments. Two researchers conducted a risk of bias assessment. Data were extracted using a structured spreadsheet and narratively synthesized. Our search identified 29 articles produced from 19 studies conducted in 13 LMICs. Most (n = 15) studies randomized to study condition. Lack of blinding was the most common threat. The external validity of studies was generally poor. Fourteen studies had a primary intervention target of family violence, mental health, substance use, economic improvement, or HIV. None of the studies showed improvements in all intervention areas. Child maltreatment was less likely to be addressed than intimate partner violence (IPV). Targeted interventions for substance and mental health mostly improved primary outcomes, although they were less effective in reducing IPV. Evidence-based treatments must be rigorously evaluated before innovations in implementation can occur. Interventions overwhelmingly addressed IPV victimization and should consider how to work with couples and include men and children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J. Mootz
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Molly Fennig
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Ali Giusto
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Audrey Mumey
- Department of Psychology, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Claire M. Greene
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Milton L. Wainberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gilbert L, Stoicescu C, Goddard-Eckrich D, Dasgupta A, Richer A, Benjamin SN, Wu E, El-Bassel N. Intervening on the Intersecting Issues of Intimate Partner Violence, Substance Use, and HIV: A Review of Social Intervention Group's (SIG) Syndemic-Focused Interventions for Women. RESEARCH ON SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE 2023; 33:178-192. [PMID: 37304833 PMCID: PMC10249965 DOI: 10.1177/10497315221121807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV), HIV, and substance use are serious intersecting public health issues. This paper aims to describe the Social Intervention Group (SIG)'s syndemic-focused interventions for women that address the co-occurrence of IPV, HIV, and substance use, referred to as the SAVA syndemic. We reviewed SIG intervention studies from 2000 to 2020 that evaluated the effectiveness of syndemic-focused interventions which addressed two or more outcomes related to reducing IPV, HIV, and substance use among different populations of women who use drugs. This review identified five interventions that co-targeted SAVA outcomes. Of the five interventions, four showed a significant reduction in risks for two or more outcomes related to IPV, substance use, and HIV. The significant effects of SIG's interventions on IPV, substance use, and HIV outcomes among different populations of women demonstrate the potential of using syndemic theory and methods in guiding effective SAVA-focused interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louisa Gilbert
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claudia Stoicescu
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, BSD City, Indonesia
| | - Dawn Goddard-Eckrich
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anindita Dasgupta
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ariel Richer
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shoshana N. Benjamin
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elwin Wu
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nabila El-Bassel
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abba MS, Nduka CU, Anjorin S, Uthman OA. Association between gender-based violence and hypertension among women in the Kyrgyzstan Republic. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2022; 22:547. [PMID: 36522737 PMCID: PMC9753303 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-022-02970-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender-based violence (GBV) is a significant global public health problem and the most prominent human rights violation severely impacting women's health and wellbeing. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the association between gender-based violence and hypertension in Kyrgyzstan Republic. METHODS This study was conducted using population-based data of women from the 2018 Kyrgyzstan Demographic and Health Survey. The odds ratio was calculated to measure the association between GBV and hypertension, and p-values < 0.005 was considered statistically significant. RESULT We included data of 4793 participants, and 621 (13%) of them had hypertension. Participants exposed to GBV were 24% more likely to have hypertension than unexposed participants (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.03-1.48). Of all women with hypertension, 206 (33.0%) were exposed to GBV. Participants with secondary education or higher exposed to GBV were 24% more likely to be hypertensive than GBV unexposed women with the same education levels OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.04-1.49). Unemployed participants exposed to GBV were 45% more likely to develop hypertension than their unexposed counterparts (OR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.15-1.81). Rural residents exposed to GBV were also 29% more likely to have hypertension than those unexposed to GBV (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.04-1.59). The odds of hypertension among those exposed to GBV increase with age. CONCLUSION The study revealed that GBV is a significant factor of having hypertension among Kyrgyz women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mustapha S. Abba
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Chidozie U. Nduka
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Seun Anjorin
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Olalekan A. Uthman
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Warwick Centre for Global Health, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK ,grid.11956.3a0000 0001 2214 904XDivision of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa ,grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Public Health (IHCAR), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Emezue C, Chase JD, Udmuangpia T, Bloom TL. Technology-based and digital interventions for intimate partner violence: A systematic review and meta-analysis. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 18:e1271. [PMID: 36909881 PMCID: PMC9419475 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Background A growing body of research shows the promise and efficacy of technology-based or digital interventions in improving the health and well-being of survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). In addition, mental health comorbidities such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression occur three to five times more frequently in survivors of IPV than non-survivors, making these comorbidities prominent targets of technology-based interventions. Still, research on the long-term effectiveness of these interventions in reducing IPV victimization and adverse mental health effects is emergent. The significant increase in the number of trials studying technology-based therapies on IPV-related outcomes has allowed us to quantify the effectiveness of such interventions for mental health and victimization outcomes in survivors. This meta-analysis and systematic review provide critical insight from several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the overall short and long-term impact of technology-based interventions on the health and well-being of female IPV survivors. Objectives To synthesize current evidence on the effects of technology-based or digital interventions on mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, and PTSD) and victimization outcomes (physical, psychological, and sexual abuse) among IPV survivors. Search Methods We examined multiple traditional and grey databases for studies published from 2007 to 2021. Traditional databases (such as PubMed Central, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, and PsychINFO) and grey databases were searched between April 2019 and February 2021. In addition, we searched clinical trial registries, government repositories, and reference lists. Authors were contacted where additional data was needed. We identified 3210 studies in traditional databases and 1257 from grey literature. Over 2198 studies were determined to be duplicates and eliminated, leaving 64 studies after screening titles and abstracts. Finally, 17 RCTs were retained for meta-analysis. A pre-registered protocol was developed and published before conducting this meta-analysis. Selection Criteria We included RCTs targeting depression, anxiety, PTSD outcomes, and victimization outcomes (physical, sexual, and psychological violence) among IPV survivors using a technology-based intervention. Eligible RCTs featured a well-defined control group. There were no study restrictions based on participant gender, study setting, or follow-up duration. Included studies additionally supplied outcome data for calculating effect sizes for our desired outcome. Studies were available in full text and published between 2007 and 2021 in English. Data Collection and Analysis We extracted relevant data and coded eligible studies. Using Cochrane's RevMan software, summary effect sizes (Outcome by Time) were assessed using an independent fixed-effects model. Standardized mean difference (SMD) effect sizes (or Cohen's d) were evaluated using a Type I error rate and an alpha of 0.05. The overall intervention effects were analyzed using the Z-statistic with a p-value of 0.05. Cochran's Q test and Higgins' I 2 statistics were utilized to evaluate and confirm the heterogeneity of each cumulative effect size. The Cochrane risk of bias assessment for randomized trials (RoB 2) was used to assess the quality of the studies. Campbell Systematic Reviews registered and published this study's protocol in January 2021. No exploratory moderator analysis was conducted; however, we report our findings with and without outlier studies in each meta-analysis. Main Results Pooled results from 17 RCTs yielded 18 individual effect size comparisons among 4590 survivors (all females). Survivors included college students, married couples, substance-using women in community prisons, pregnant women, and non-English speakers, and sample sizes ranged from 15 to 672. Survivors' ages ranged from 19 to 41.5 years. Twelve RCTs were conducted in the United States and one in Canada, New Zealand, China (People's Republic of), Kenya, and Australia. The results of this meta-analysis found that technology-based interventions significantly reduced depression among female IPV survivors at 0-3 months only (SMD = -0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.17 to -0.00), anxiety among IPV survivors at 0-3 months (SMD = -0.27, 95% CI = -0.42 to -0.13, p = 0.00, I 2 = 25%), and physical violence victimization among IPV survivors at 0-6 months (SMD = -0.22, 95% CI = -0.38 to -0.05). We found significant reductions in psychological violence victimization at 0-6 months (SMD = -0.34, 95% CI = -0.47 to -0.20) and at >6 months (SMD = -0.29, 95% CI = -0.39 to -0.18); however, at both time points, there were outlier studies. At no time point did digital interventions significantly reduce PTSD (SMD = -0.04, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.06, p = .46, I 2 = 0%), or sexual violence victimization (SMD = -0.02, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.11, I 2 = 21%) among female IPV survivors for all. With outlier studies removed from our analysis, all summary effect sizes were small, and this small number of comparisons prevented moderator analyses. Authors' Conclusions The results of this meta-analysis are promising. Our findings highlight the effectiveness of IPV-mitigating digital intervention as an add-on (not a replacement) to traditional modalities using a coordinated response strategy. Our findings contribute to the current understanding of "what works" to promote survivors' mental health, safety, and well-being. Future research could advance the science by identifying active intervention ingredients, mapping out intervention principles/mechanisms of action, best modes of delivery, adequate dosage levels using the treatment intensity matching process, and guidelines to increase feasibility and acceptability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuka Emezue
- Department of Women, Children and Family NursingRush University College of NursingChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Jo‐Ana D. Chase
- Sinclair School of NursingUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Tipparat Udmuangpia
- Department of Maternal‐Child Health and MidwiferyBoromarajonani College of NursingKhon KaenThailand
| | - Tina L. Bloom
- School of NursingNotre Dame of Maryland UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Silberg C, Likindikoki S, Mbwambo J, Mmari K, Saleem HT. Housing instability and violence among women who use drugs in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:68. [PMID: 35761376 PMCID: PMC9237973 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00649-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who use heroin and other drugs (WWUD) are a key population with elevated risk of physical and sexual violence perpetrated by intimate partners and non-partners. While housing instability has been shown to be associated with violence in high-income settings, this is an underexplored topic in sub-Saharan Africa. In this research, we aimed to assess the relationship between housing instability and various forms of violence within a sample of WWUD in Dar es Salaam. METHODS This analysis uses data from a parent study from 2018. A total of 200 WWUD were recruited through respondent-driven sampling methods and administered a survey. Two multivariable logistic regression models were built to assess the relationship between housing instability and physical violence (Model 1) and housing instability and sexual violence (Model 2) while controlling for a number of sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS Approximately 35% of participants were classified as housing unstable. More than half of participants (62%) reported experiencing physical violence in the past 12 months, and more than a third (36%) reported sexual violence in the same time period. Housing instability was found to be independently associated with both physical and sexual violence victimization in the past year when adjusting for covariates (Model 1 adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.40, 95% CI 1.22-4.46; Model 2 AOR: 1.93. 95% CI 1.02-3.67). CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first study to document a significant association between housing instability and violence among WWUD communities in sub-Saharan Africa. This analysis adds to the growing body of literature on the relationship between stable housing and livelihood and health outcomes across differing populations. The cyclical nature of housing instability and violence may be disrupted through housing programming that provides safety, security, and stability for WWUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Silberg
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania ,grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jessie Mbwambo
- grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Kristin Mmari
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Haneefa T. Saleem
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Room E5033, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
El-Bassel N, Mukherjee TI, Stoicescu C, Starbird LE, Stockman JK, Frye V, Gilbert L. Intertwined epidemics: progress, gaps, and opportunities to address intimate partner violence and HIV among key populations of women. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e202-e213. [PMID: 35151376 PMCID: PMC10009883 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(21)00325-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The intersection of intimate partner violence and HIV is a public health problem, particularly among key populations of women, including female sex workers, women who use drugs, and transgender women, and adolescent girls and young women (aged 15-24 years). Intimate partner violence results in greater risk of HIV acquisition and creates barriers to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care for key populations of women. Socioecological models can be used to explain the unique multilevel mechanisms linking intimate partner violence and HIV. Few interventions, modelling studies, and economic evaluations that concurrently address both intimate partner violence and HIV exist, with no interventions tailored for transgender populations. Most combination interventions target individual-level risk factors, and rarely consider community or structural factors, or evaluate cost-efficacy. Addressing intimate partner violence is crucial to ending the HIV epidemic; this Review highlights the gaps and opportunities for future research to address the intertwined epidemics of intimate partner violence and HIV among key populations of women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Trena I Mukherjee
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claudia Stoicescu
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Centre for Criminology, Oxford Law Faculty, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Centre for Evidence-Based Social Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Laura E Starbird
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jamila K Stockman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Victoria Frye
- School of Medicine, The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Louisa Gilbert
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tales of gender-based oppression and violence: Risks and vulnerabilities of women who inject drugs (WWID) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 92:103144. [PMID: 33549468 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who inject drugs (WWID) experience various complexities, risks and vulnerabilities attributed to unequal gendered power differentials. This article has aimed to explore the unequal gendered power dynamics that influence HIV risks and vulnerabilities among WWID in Dhaka, Bangladesh. METHODS This paper is based on an ethnographic study conducted from April 2018 to December 2019 in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This component of the study constituted 2500 h of extensive field observations, 15 in-depth interviews and five focus groups exclusively with WWID. We also interviewed 15 key-informants including programme managers, an academician and harm reduction service providers. Data were thematically analysed in relation to the four bases of gendered power theorised by gender scholars Pratto and Walker which include force, resource control, asymmetrical obligations and consensual ideologies. RESULTS The first base, "force", highlighted situations where WWID were compelled into risky injecting and sexual behaviours to avoid violent ramifications or losing their safety nets with intimate partners. The second base, "resource control", depicted unequal access to commodities where men exercised their dominance over money and drugs. The third base, "social obligations", depicted the propensity of WWID to obey their partners and clients, thus precipitating their risky behaviours. The fourth base, consensual ideologies, were linked to weakened negotiation powers of WWID, thus increasing their propensity to risky injecting and sexual behaviours alongside poly-drug use. Despite several instances of gender-based violence and oppression, WWID have fallen victim to gender-blind interventions, as demonstrated by study observations and anecdotes. CONCLUSION Gender-based violence and oppression were depicted as prominent driving forces exacerbating WWID's HIV risks and vulnerabilities. If these issues are overlooked, the HIV burden will continue permeating among WWID. Thus, stakeholders need to look beyond the lens of conventional harm reduction modalities and synergize evidence-based gendered dynamics to formulate a gender-responsive comprehensive service package for WWID.
Collapse
|
9
|
Ataiants J, Roth AM, Mazzella S, Lankenau SE. Circumstances of overdose among street-involved, opioid-injecting women: Drug, set, and setting. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 78:102691. [PMID: 32086154 PMCID: PMC7302961 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current discourses about the causes of the overdose crisis largely focus on the harmful effects of drugs. Prior research, however, indicates that drug use experience is shaped by complex interactions of drugs with physiological and mental "sets" of people who use drugs and the wider social and physical "setting." Zinberg's "drug, set, and setting" theoretical framework was applied to identify patterns in circumstances leading up to women's overdose. METHODS In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 opioid-injecting street-involved women, clients of a Philadelphia harm reduction program. Qualitative analysis with deductive and inductive coding was utilized to examine transcripts for theory-driven and emerging themes. RESULTS Ten out of 29 women attributed their overdose to "drugs," reporting the unpredictable quality of street opioids, concurrent use of benzodiazepines, or chasing the "high." Thirteen women reported "set" as a type of circumstance where their emotional states were affected by a "good" or "bad" day, leading them to unusual drug consumption practices. Six women described "setting" type of circumstances where their overdose was preceded by a recent change in context, such as release from prison, which prompted unsafe drug use to address physiological or psychological dependence on drugs. CONCLUSION While all overdoses result from the pharmacological action of drugs, some overdoses were triggered by circumstances occurring in women's set or setting. Overdose prevention policies should embrace not only individual-level behavioral interventions, but also structural measures to address stress, social isolation, and risky drug use contexts that plague the lives of street-involved women who inject opioids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janna Ataiants
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Alexis M Roth
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Silvana Mazzella
- Prevention Point Philadelphia, 2913 Kensington Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19134, USA
| | - Stephen E Lankenau
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Valencia J, Alvaro-Meca A, Troya J, Gutiérrez J, Ramón C, Rodríguez A, Vázquez-Morón S, Resino S, Moreno S, Ryan P. Gender-based vulnerability in women who inject drugs in a harm reduction setting. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230886. [PMID: 32226042 PMCID: PMC7105126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims In comparison with men, women who use drugs (WWUD) have considerably more frequent and intense experiences with interpersonal violence, sexual abuse and trauma. The aim of this study was to identify issues related to gender-based vulnerability in a group of WWUD attended in a harm reduction facility in Madrid, Spain. Material and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted during a screening of blood borne infections. We included WWUD (smoked or injected heroin/cocaine) who were actively screened for HIV, HBV and HCV in a harm reduction setting in Madrid (Spain) from January to December 2017. WWUD were interviewed for gender-based abuse or violence using a face-to-face questionnaire by a trained interviewer. Aspects related to their social-epidemiological condition and gender-based vulnerability were collected. Results We included 109 women who were actively using drugs. The median age was 39 (IQR 35–47) years, 84.4% were Spanish born, 22.9% were homeless, 43 (41.7%) had ever used injected drugs, 29 (26.6%) were currently using injected drugs, and 27.1% had mental health disorders. Aspects related to gender-based vulnerability were collected. Among those surveyed, they reported having ever suffered emotional or psychological damage (88%), having experienced at least one incident of serious physical injury by a male partner (71%), and having ever suffered sexual abuse (49%). In addition, 28% had ever exchanged sex for money/drugs. When compared to women that did not use injecting drugs, those who injected drugs had more frequently exchanged sex for money/drugs (55% vs 21%, p = 0.003). Conclusions A high proportion of WWUD suffer psychological or physical violence by partners denoting gender-based vulnerability. Interventions in harm reduction settings with a multidisciplinary and gender-based approach should be implemented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Valencia
- Harm Reduction Unit “SMASD”; Subdirección General de Adicciones; SERMAS, Madrid, Spain
- Non-Governmental Organization “Madrid Positivo”, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Alejandro Alvaro-Meca
- Unit of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Troya
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Gutiérrez
- Non-Governmental Organization “Madrid Positivo”, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Ramón
- Non-Governmental Organization “Madrid Positivo”, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Sonia Vázquez-Morón
- Fundación Estatal, Salud, Infancia y Bienestar Social (FCSAI), Madrid, Spain
- Unit of Viral Infection and Immunity, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Salvador Resino
- Unit of Viral Infection and Immunity, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Moreno
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Hospital, IRYCIS, University of Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Ryan
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
- Complutense de Madrid University (UCM), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bani-Fatemi A, Malta M, Noble A, Wang W, Rajakulendran T, Kahan D, Stergiopoulos V. Supporting Female Survivors of Gender-Based Violence Experiencing Homelessness: Outcomes of a Health Promotion Psychoeducation Group Intervention. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:601540. [PMID: 33362610 PMCID: PMC7755885 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.601540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Homelessness is an important risk factor for gender-based violence (GBV), particularly among youth, and disproportionally affects women and girls. Survivors of GBV experience enduring and severe physical, psychological, and sexual health problems. Although key elements in service delivery for survivors of GBV have been identified, little is known about outcomes of community-based programs aiming to assist homeless and unstably housed youth experiencing GBV. This longitudinal study aimed to quantitatively evaluate changes in mental health and well-being outcomes in female identified youth experiencing GBV and homelessness, 12 months after enrolment in a community-based, trauma-informed, brief group psychoeducation intervention. Standardized survey measures were administered at baseline, 6 and 12 months for 70 participants, recruited between February 2017 and April 2019, assessing quality of life, psychological distress, traumatic symptoms, substance use, resilience, victimization, and sense of mastery. Linear mixed models were used to examine longitudinal changes in quality of life as well as secondary outcomes among study participants. After 12 months, quality of life increased significantly among participants (p = 0.009), and the 12-month victimization score was significantly decreased relative to baseline (p = 0.05). Changes in other outcomes were not statistically significant. Findings suggest that community-based brief group psychoeducation interventions may be a promising approach to improving outcomes for this disadvantaged population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Monica Malta
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Wei Wang
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Deborah Kahan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Vicky Stergiopoulos
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fawole OI, Balogun BO, Adejimi AA, Akinsola OJ, Van Wyk JM. Training medical students: victim's perceptions of selectively screening women for intimate partner violence in health care settings. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2019; 19:196. [PMID: 31185978 PMCID: PMC6558861 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-019-1627-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Routine IPV screening is a controversial topic and there is no evidence to suggest that it improves the health outcomes of women. Consequently, understanding the socio-cultural dimensions, becomes essential to ensure that victims receive appropriate and local support. This study was conducted to gather the perceptions of victims of IPV on the relevance of raising the topic at health care facilities and to determine specific categories of women to target for screening by medical personnel. It also explored how the information gathered could support victims and whether medical students should be trained on issues relating to IPV. METHODS Thirty-three key informant interviews were conducted among women attending clinics from three teaching hospitals in the Lagos, Oyo and Osun States of South West Nigeria. The hospitals offer antenatal, emergency, primary care and community outreach clinics which are well-attended by women. A six-item questionnaire assessed eligibility for participation in the study and participants were then purposively sampled. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide. Ethical approval and gatekeepers' permissions were obtained, and each participant signed informed consent. Data was collected between June and November 2017. The data was entered into Excel and analysed deductively to answer each objective. RESULTS Most (n = 24) participants stated that medical practitioners should ask all women who present to health care facilities, about their experiences of IPV. Physically, medically and socially vulnerable women, including those in relationships with men in risky occupations, were identified as needing special attention and possible follow-up. They supported the use of the information within and outside of the health care facility, depending on the need of the woman. The majority (n = 24) indicated a need to train medical students about IPV and 19 participants suggested for the topic to be curriculated. Most victims favoured the inclusion of a multidisciplinary team in teaching medical students about IPV. CONCLUSIONS Victims of IPV were in support of initiatives to discuss the topic among some groups of female patients in health care settings. They thought it would enhance the quality of care (medical, psychological, legal and social) to victims. They identified an inter-professional team of stakeholders to include when training medical students about IPV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olufunmilayo I. Fawole
- Department of Epidemiolgy and Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Busola O. Balogun
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adebola A. Adejimi
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - O. J. Akinsola
- Department of Community Medicine and Primary Health Care, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Jacqueline M. Van Wyk
- Department of Clinical and Professional Practice, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Omaleki V, Reed E. The role of gender in health outcomes among women in Central Asia: a narrative review of the literature. WOMENS STUDIES INTERNATIONAL FORUM 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wsif.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|
14
|
Pantelic M, Stegling C, Shackleton S, Restoy E. Power to participants: a call for person-centred HIV prevention services and research. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 21 Suppl 7:e25167. [PMID: 30334609 PMCID: PMC6193315 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While biomedical HIV prevention offers promise for preventing new HIV infections, access to and uptake of these technologies remain unacceptably low in some settings. New models for delivery of HIV prevention are clearly needed. This commentary highlights the potential of person-centred programming and research for increasing the cultural relevance, applicability and use of efficacious HIV prevention strategies. It calls for a shift in perspective within HIV prevention programmes and research, whereby people are recognized for their agency rather than assumed to be passive beneficiaries or research participants. DISCUSSION Person-centred HIV prevention reorientates power dynamics so that individuals (rather than interventions) are at the centre of the response. Respecting personal choice and agency - and understanding how these are shaped by the context in which people exercise these choices - are critical dimensions of the person-centred approach. Community-based participatory research should be employed to inform and evaluate person-centred HIV prevention. We argue that community-based participatory research is an orientation rather than a method, meaning that it can be integrated within a range of research methods including randomized controlled trials. But embracing community-based participatory approaches in HIV prevention research requires a systemic shift in how this type of research is reported in high impact journals and in how research impact is conceived. Community-based organizations have a critical role to play in both person-centred HIV prevention and research. CONCLUSIONS HIV prevention is situated at the intersection of unprecedented opportunity and crisis. Person-centred approaches to HIV prevention and research shift power dynamics, and have the potential to ensure a more sustainable response with each individual actively participating in their own care and meaningfully contributing to the production of knowledge on HIV prevention. This approach taps into the resourcefulness, resilience and knowledge of the person and their communities, to strengthen research and programmes, making them more relevant, appropriate and effective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marija Pantelic
- International HIV/AIDS AllianceBrighton & HoveUnited Kingdom
- Department of Social Policy and InterventionUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | - Enrique Restoy
- International HIV/AIDS AllianceBrighton & HoveUnited Kingdom
- School of Global StudiesUniversity of SussexSussexUnited Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jiwatram-Negrón T, Hunt T, Nikitin D, Rychkova O, Ermolaeva I, Sharonova N, Mukambetov A, Gilbert L. An exploratory study of economic abuse among substance-involved women in Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2017.1421272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy Hunt
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Danil Nikitin
- Global Research Institute Foundation, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | | | | | | | | | - Louisa Gilbert
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jiwatram-Negrón T, El-Bassel N, Primbetova S, Terlikbayeva A. Gender-Based Violence Among HIV-Positive Women in Kazakhstan: Prevalence, Types, and Associated Risk and Protective Factors. Violence Against Women 2017; 24:1570-1590. [PMID: 29332520 DOI: 10.1177/1077801217741218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article examines the prevalence and associated multilevel risk and protective factors of intimate and nonintimate partner violence among a sample of 249 HIV-positive women in Kazakhstan. We found high prevalence of both lifetime intimate partner violence (52%) and nonintimate partner violence (30%). Together, nearly 60% experienced at least one incident of violence by either an intimate or nonintimate partner (gender-based violence [GBV]). In the multivariate analyses, we found associations between several individual, interpersonal, and socio-structural risk factors and GBV. Findings provide direction for practice, policy, and future research to address the intersection of GBV and HIV in Kazakhstan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nabila El-Bassel
- 2 Columbia University, New York City, USA.,3 Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gilchrist G, Hegarty K. Tailored integrated interventions for intimate partner violence and substance use are urgently needed. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017; 36:3-6. [DOI: 10.1111/dar.12526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gail Gilchrist
- National Addiction Centre; Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London; London UK
| | - Kelsey Hegarty
- Department of General Practice; University of Melbourne and The Royal Women's Hospital; Melbourne Australia
| |
Collapse
|