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Okot SP, Izudi J, Ssenyonga R, Babirye JN. Factors associated with completion of intensive adherence counseling among people living with HIV at a large referral hospital in Uganda: a retrospective analysis. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:1093. [PMID: 39294641 PMCID: PMC11411857 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11528-5] [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] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among people living with HIV(PHIV) with unsuppressed viral load after six or more months of anti-retroviral therapy (ART), three intensive adherence counseling sessions (IAC) sessions are recommended. However, there is limited information about IAC completion rates. We investigated the factors associated with IAC completion among PLHIV with an unsuppressed viral load on first and second-line ART in mid-western Uganda. METHODS In this retrospective review of medical records, we abstracted routine HIV data between January 2018 and September 2019 at the Fort Portal Regional Hospital. IAC completion was the primary outcome measured as the receipt of ≥ 3 consecutive good ART adherence scores of ≥ 95.0% during the IAC sessions, spaced one month apart within three months. The modified Poisson regression analysis with robust standard errors was used to determine factors associated with the outcome, reported as risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS We studied 420 participants of whom 204 (48.6%) were aged 20-39 years (mean age, 33.6 ± 13.3 years) and 243 (57.9%) were female. 282 (67.1%) participants completed their IAC sessions. Secondary or higher levels of education (Adjusted RR (aRR) 0.79, 95% CI 0.64-0.98), no follow-up for IAC (aRR 0.76, 95% CI 0.67-0.87), malnutrition (aRR 0.65, 95% CI 0.43-0.99) were associated with a lower likelihood of IAC completion while being in a separated/widowed or divorced relationship (aRR 1.23, 95% CI 1.01-1.49) was associated with a higher likelihood of IAC completion. CONCLUSIONS We found a low IAC completion rate compared to the desired target of 100%. Nutritional support for malnourished PLHIV receiving IAC, follow-ups, and targeted health education on the importance of IAC are needed to improve the IAC completion rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomom Paul Okot
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation, Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jonathan Izudi
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda.
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.
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Henerico S, Lyimo E, Makubi AN, Magesa D, Desderius B, Mueller A, Changalucha J, Aloyce M, Maziku B, Kidenya BR, Kalluvya SE, Van Zyl G, Preiser W, Mshana SE, Kasang C. Virological impact of HIV drug-resistance testing in children, adolescents, and adults failing first-line ART in Tanzania. J Glob Antimicrob Resist 2024:S2213-7165(24)00149-8. [PMID: 39197654 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgar.2024.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prospective data on the effectiveness of resistance testing in informing treatment decisions and outcomes in with first-line failure in these settings is limited. This study aimed to assess the virological impact of HIV drug-resistance testing in patients with virological failure in Tanzania. METHODS Participants were randomly assigned to either the control or the experimental group. In addition to the standard of care, patients in the experimental group had access to genotypic drug-resistance testing, information used during treatment change, and were followed up at six-and 12-months to determine virological suppression. RESULTS A total of 261 patients with a median age of 32 (14.7-44.7) years were enrolled. In the intention-to-treat analysis, at 6-months, suppression was achieved in 58 (42.3%; 95% CI, 34.1-50.1) experimental group patients versus 51 (41.1%; 95% CI, 32.5-49.8) control group patients, with a p-value of 0.4. At-12 months, suppression was achieved in 110 (80.3%; 95% CI, 73.6-87) experimental patients versus 99 (79.8%; 95% CI, 72.8-86.9) control patients, with a p-value of 0.5. In the per-protocol analysis, at 6-months, suppression was observed in 38.46% (95% CI, 27.6-49.3) experimental patients versus 38.6% (95% CI, 26.0-51.2) control patients, with a p-value of 0.5. At 12-months, suppression was observed in 79.49% (95% CI, 70.5-88.5) of experimental patients versus 75.44% (95% CI, 64.3-86.6) of control patients, with a p-value of 0.3. CONCLUSION Conducting HIV drug-resistance testing, and switch to individualised second-line regimens did not significantly improve virological suppression in patients experiencing first-line ART failure in Tanzania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimba Henerico
- Bugando Medical Centre, P.O Box 1370, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania.
| | - Eric Lyimo
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza Research Centre, P.O Box 1462, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Abel N Makubi
- The Ministry of Health, P.O Box 743, Dodoma, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Daniel Magesa
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2448 Barak Obama Drive, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Bernard Desderius
- Bugando Medical Centre, P.O Box 1370, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania; Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences-Bugando, P.O Box 1464, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Andreas Mueller
- Klinikum Wuerzburg Mitte gGmbH, Missioklinik, Department of Tropical Medicine, Salvatorstraße 7, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - John Changalucha
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza Research Centre, P.O Box 1462, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Michael Aloyce
- Pastoral Activities and Services for people with AIDS Dar es Salaam Archdiocese (PASADA), P.O Box 70225, Dar-es-Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Bence Maziku
- Pastoral Activities and Services for people with AIDS Dar es Salaam Archdiocese (PASADA), P.O Box 70225, Dar-es-Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Benson R Kidenya
- Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences-Bugando, P.O Box 1464, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Samuel E Kalluvya
- Bugando Medical Centre, P.O Box 1370, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania; Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences-Bugando, P.O Box 1464, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Gert Van Zyl
- Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University/National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Private bag X1, Matieland 7602, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wolfgang Preiser
- Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University/National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Private bag X1, Matieland 7602, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stephen E Mshana
- Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences-Bugando, P.O Box 1464, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Christa Kasang
- German Leprosy and Tuberculosis Relief Association (DAHW), Raiffeisenstraße 3, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; Medmissio, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
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Izudi J, Cattamanchi A, Castelnuovo B, King R. Barriers and facilitators to viral load suppression among people living with HIV following intensive adherence counseling in Kampala, Uganda: A qualitative study. Soc Sci Med 2024; 343:116595. [PMID: 38242033 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116595] [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] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
We explored the barriers and facilitators to viral load (VL) suppression after three or more intensive adherence counseling (IAC) sessions among adolescents and adults living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on a first-line anti-retroviral therapy (ART) with initially unsuppressed VL in Kampala, Uganda. Using a qualitative study, data were collected through in-depth interviews with people living with HIV (PLHIV) with unsuppressed and suppressed VL and caregivers of younger adolescents living with HIV after three or more IAC sessions. We held key informant interviews with health workers involved in IAC implementation, namely ART/HIV focal persons, IAC Team Leaders, and linkage facilitators. Guided by the socioecological model, we performed content analysis and reported the findings using themes along with the participants' quotes. We studied 24 participants and found the individual-level barriers as forgetting to take HIV medications, high pill burden, medication side effects, a lack of food, and HIV-related psychological distress. Undisclosed HIV status and broken families were the barriers at the interpersonal level. Institutional-level barriers included insufficient HIV and ART counseling. Stigma was considered a community-level barrier while nonadherence to HIV treatment guidelines was a policy-level barrier. Facilitators included personal reminders, knowing the importance of taking treatment, and the ability to deal with side effects of HIV medications at the personal level; treatment support, peer support clubs, and incentivized treatment at the interpersonal level; and mental health support club and explaining during counseling that HIV is a chronic disease at the institutional level. We found an unsuppressed VL after completing IAC was due to several barriers at the personal, interpersonal, health systems, community, and policy levels. Achieving ≥95% VL suppression necessitates tackling the barriers to VL suppression and scaling up the facilitators by HIV control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Izudi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Uganda; University of California Global Health Institute (UCGHI), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Adithya Cattamanchi
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Uganda
| | - Rachel King
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Nanyeenya N, Nakanjako D, Makumbi F, Nakigozi G, Nalugoda F, Kigozi G, Nasuuna E, Kibira SPS, Nabadda S, Kiyaga C, Huzaifah M, Kiwanuka N. Effectiveness of intensive adherence counselling in achieving an undetectable viral load among people on antiretroviral therapy with low-level viraemia in Uganda. HIV Med 2024; 25:245-253. [PMID: 37853605 PMCID: PMC11047222 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13568] [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: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uganda was using a threshold of 1000 copies/mL to determine viral non-suppression for antiretroviral therapy monitoring among people living with HIV, prior to this study. It was not clear whether people living with HIV with low-level viraemia (LLV, ≥50 to <1000 copies/mL) would benefit from intensive adherence counselling (IAC). The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of IAC among people living with HIV, receiving antiretroviral therapy, and with LLV in Uganda, to guide key policy decisions in HIV care, including the review of the viral load (VL) testing algorithm. METHODS This cluster-randomized clinical trial comprised adults from eight HIV clinics who were living with HIV, receiving ART, and had recent VL results indicating LLV (tested from July 2022 to October 2022). Participants in the intervention arm clinics received three once-monthly sessions of IAC, and those in the comparison non-intervention arm clinics received the standard of care. At the end of the study, all participants were re-tested for VL to determine the proportions of those who then had an undetectable VL (<50 copies/mL). We assessed the statistical association between cross-tabulated variables using Fisher's exact test and then modified Poisson regression. RESULTS A total of 136 participants were enrolled into the study at eight HIV clinics. All 68 participants in the intervention arm completed all IAC sessions. Only one participant in the non-intervention arm was lost to follow-up. The average follow-up time was 3.7 months (standard deviation [SD] 0.2) and 3.5 months (SD 0.1) in the intervention and non-intervention arms, respectively. In total, 59 (43.7%) of 135 people living with HIV achieved an undetectable VL during the study follow-up period. The effect of IAC on attaining an undetectable VL among people with LLV was nearly twice as high in the intervention arm (57.4%) than in the non-intervention arm (29.9%): adjusted risk ratio 1.9 (95% confidence interval 1.0-3.5), p = 0.037. CONCLUSION IAC doubled the likelihood of an undetectable VL among people living with HIV with LLV. Therefore, IAC has been instituted as an intervention to manage people living with HIV with LLV in Uganda, and this should also be adopted in other Sub-Saharan African countries with similar settings. CLINICALTRIALS GOV IDENTIFIER NCT05514418.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholus Nanyeenya
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Ministry of Health Central Public Health Laboratories, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Damalie Nakanjako
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fredrick Makumbi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Esther Nasuuna
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Simon P S Kibira
- Department of Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Susan Nabadda
- Ministry of Health Central Public Health Laboratories, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Kiyaga
- Ministry of Health Central Public Health Laboratories, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mutyaba Huzaifah
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noah Kiwanuka
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Izudi J, Castelnuovo B, King R, Cattamanchi A. Risk factors for unsuppressed viral load after intensive adherence counseling among HIV infected persons in Kampala, Uganda: a nested case-control study. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:90. [PMID: 38110982 PMCID: PMC10729480 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00583-3] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intensive adherence counseling (IAC) is the global standard of care for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) who have unsuppressed VL after ≥ 6 months of first-line anti-retroviral therapy (ART). We investigated whether the number of IAC sessions is associated with suppressed VL among PLHIV in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS We conducted a nested case-control study among PLHIV with unsuppressed VL after ≥ 3 IAC sessions (cases) and a 2:1 random sample of PLHIV with suppressed VL after ≥ 3 IAC sessions (controls). Unsuppressed VL was defined as VL ≥ 1000 copies/ml. We performed multivariable logistic regression to identify factors that differed significantly between cases and controls. RESULTS Demographic and clinical characteristics were similar among the 16 cases and 32 controls including mean age, sex, baseline CD4 count, VL before IAC, and WHO clinical stage. Only the number of IAC sessions differed significantly between cases and controls in unadjusted (p = 0.012) and adjusted (p = 0.016) analyses. Each unit increase in IAC session was associated with unsuppressed VL (Adjusted odds ratio 5.09; 95% CI 1.35-19.10). CONCLUSIONS VL remained unsuppressed despite increasing IAC frequency. The fidelity to standardized IAC protocol besides drug resistance testing among PLHIV with unsuppressed VL before IAC commencement should be examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Izudi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.
- University of California Global Health Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rachel King
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Adithya Cattamanchi
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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Masresha SA, Kidie AA, Alen GD, Mulaw GF, Feleke FW, Kassaw MW, Dejene TM. Virological failure and its predictors among human immunodeficiency virus infected individuals on second line antiretroviral treatment in North-East Ethiopia, 2021. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2023; 32:978-987. [PMID: 36974512 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) becomes a manageable chronic disease due to the presence of effective prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care accesses. Viral load cascade analyses are important to identify gaps in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS treatment and care for quality improvements. OBJECTIVE Time to Virological Failure and its Predictors among HIV Infected Individuals on Second Line Antiretroviral Treatment (SLART) in North-East Ethiopia, 2021. METHODS Institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted on 474 HIV-infected individuals who were on SLART between September 2016 and April 2020. A universal sampling technique was used to recruit study participants. Data were entered by EpiData-3.3.1 and analyzed by STATA-14. Cox proportional hazard assumptions were checked to determine the effect of predictor variables on virological failure (VF). The study was conducted from February 1 to April 30, 2021. RESULTS The rate of VF in this study was 15.4% with an incidence rate of 4.93 per 100 person-years. As participants' age and duration of ART use increased by 1 year the hazards of VF was reduced by 2.9% (AHR: 0.971, 95% CI: 0.945, 0.995) and 10.6% (AHR: 0.894, 95% CI: 0.828, 0.963), respectively. The hazards of VF were twice higher among those who were on a non-protease inhibitor-based regimen. Individuals who had a history of making enhanced adherence counseling (EAC) sessions during SLART had three times more risk to develop VF (AHR: 3.374, 95% CI: 1.790, 6.361). CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS The rate of VF among SLART users was high. Keeping SLART users on PI-based regimens may improve virological outcomes in HIV care and treatment. Making EAC sessions effective in promoting better ART adherence might reduce VF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gedefaw Diress Alen
- Department of Public Health, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | - Tadesse Mamo Dejene
- Department of Public Health, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
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Izudi J, Castelnuovo B, King R, Cattamanchi A. Impact of intensive adherence counseling on viral load suppression and mortality among people living with HIV in Kampala, Uganda: A regression discontinuity design. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002240. [PMID: 37549128 PMCID: PMC10406184 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Intensive adherence counseling (IAC) is recommended for people living with HIV (PLHIV) with viral load (VL) ≥1,000 copies/ml after ≥6 months of anti-retroviral therapy (ART). We evaluated the effect of IAC on VL suppression and all-cause mortality among PLHIV on first-line ART with VL ≥1,000 copies/ml after ≥6 months of ART in Kampala, Uganda using regression discontinuity design, a quasi-experimental method for effect estimation when interventions depend on a cut-off. PLHIV just above VL ≥1,000 copies/ml cut-off who received ≥3 IAC sessions formed the intervention group while those just below the cut-off who received routine psychosocial support constituted the control group. Primary outcome was repeat VL suppression defined as VL <1,000 copies/ml approximately 9-12 months following initial VL assessment. Secondary outcome was all-cause mortality. We used logistic regression for causal-effect analysis, reported as odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). We performed sensitivity analyses to assess the robustness of findings to varying bandwidths at the cut-off. We found 3,735 PLHIV were started on ART between Nov 2020 and Nov 2021 of whom 3,199 were included in the analysis (3,085 control, 114 intervention). Within an optimal bandwidth, there were 236 participants (222 control, 14 intervention) with similar demographic and clinical characteristics. Repeat VL suppression was lower in the intervention than in the control group (85.7% versus 98.6%, p = 0.021) while all-cause mortality was similar (0% versus 0.5%, p = 1.000). In multivariable analysis, the odds of repeat VL suppression were 91% lower in the intervention than control group (OR = 0.09; 95% CI, 0.01-0.66). Findings are robust to varying bandwidths around the cut-off. We concluded IAC is ineffective in suppressing VL among PLHIV on first-line ART in Kampala, Uganda. Findings suggest a need to investigate the IAC implementation fidelity for successful translation in practice and the reasons for VL persistence beyond the suppression threshold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Izudi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- University of California Global Health Institute (UCGHI), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rachel King
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Adithya Cattamanchi
- Center for Tuberculosis, San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States of America
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Nakimuli-Mpungu E, Wamala K, Nalugya JS, Nakanyike C, Iya J, Bakeera Kitaka S, Diana Namuli J, Akimana B, Nachega JB, Mills EJ, Seggane M. The effect of group support psychotherapy on adherence to anti-retroviral therapy and viral suppression among HIV positive young people: Study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 3:1011898. [PMID: 37089453 PMCID: PMC10115161 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1011898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
BackgroundSeveral studies have demonstrated an association between psychological risk factors and HIV disease progression. However, there is limited information on the use of psychological interventions to improve HIV treatment outcomes in young people living with HIV.ObjectiveThis pilot trial aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of group support psychotherapy in improving adherence to anti-retroviral therapy and viral suppression in young people living with HIV in Uganda.MethodsWe recruited 120 young people with HIV, aged 10–18 years, who had non-viral suppression 6 months after initiating first-line anti-retroviral therapy (ART) from community based HIV clinics in Kitgum district, northern Uganda. Participants were randomly assigned to receive GSP plus IAC (N = 60) or IAC alone (N = 60). Primary outcomes will be indicators of feasibility and acceptability as well as preliminary effectiveness of GSP in improving ART adherence and viral suppression analysed by intention to treat using cluster-adjusted t tests and permutation tests. Secondary outcomes will be measures of depression, anxiety and cost-effectiveness.ResultsThe trial has been approved by the Makerere College of Health Sciences School of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee, and the Uganda National Council of Science and Technology. Recruitment began in June 2021 and 120 young people living with HIV with their adult caregivers have been recruited to the trial. An analysis of baseline and 6-month data is in progress. The results of this trial will not only be presented at national and international conferences but also submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and as a report to the funding agencies.ConclusionsThis pilot trial will provide critical evidence to support the ongoing mental health integration into routine HIV care in Uganda.Trial RegistrationPan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR): 202006601935462
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Affiliation(s)
- Etheldreda Nakimuli-Mpungu
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
- Correspondence: Etheldreda Nakimuli-Mpungu
| | - Kizito Wamala
- Department of Psychology, Center for Victims of Torture, Gulu, Uganda
| | | | - Caroline Nakanyike
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Iya
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sabrina Bakeera Kitaka
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Justine Diana Namuli
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Benedict Akimana
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, Ministry of Health of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jean B. Nachega
- Departments of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
- Departments of International Health and Epidemiology, Bloomberg’s School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edward J. Mills
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Musisi Seggane
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Nakaye C, Mukiza N, Mawanda D, Kataike H, Kaganzi H, Ahimbisibwe GM, Businge GB, Kyambadde RC, Nakalega R. Viral load suppression after intensive adherence counselling among adult people living with HIV at Kiswa health centre, Kampala: a retrospective cohort study. Secondary data analysis. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:18. [PMID: 36998004 PMCID: PMC10061832 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00513-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS through the 95-95-95 target requires 95% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral treatment (ART) to be virally suppressed. Viral Load (VL) non-suppression has been found to be associated with suboptimal ART adherence, and Intensive Adherence Counselling (IAC) has been shown to lead to VL re-suppression by over 70% in PLHIV on ART. Currently, there is data paucity on VL suppression after IAC in adult PLHIV in Uganda. This study aimed to evaluate the proportion of VL suppression after IAC and associated factors among adult PLHIV on ART at Kiswa Health Centre in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS Study was a retrospective cohort design and employed secondary data analysis to review routine program data. Medical records of adult PLHIV on ART for at least six months with VL non-suppression from January 2018 to June 2020 at Kiswa HIV clinic were examined in May 2021. Descriptive statistics were applied to determine sample characteristics and study outcome proportions. Multivariable modified Poisson regression analysis was employed to assess predictors of VL suppression after IAC. RESULTS Analysis included 323 study participants of whom 204 (63.2%) were female, 137 (42.4%) were between the age of 30 and 39 years; and median age was 35 years (interquartile range [IQR] 29-42). Participant linkage to IAC was 100%. Participants who received the first IAC session within 30 days or less after unsuppressed VL result were 48.6% (157/323). Participants who received recommended three or more IAC sessions and achieved VL suppression were 66.4% (202/304). The percentage of participants who completed three IAC sessions in recommended 12 weeks was 34%. Receipt of three IAC sessions (ARR = 1.33, 95%CI: 1.15-1.53, p < 0.001), having baseline VL of 1,000-4,999 copies/ml (ARR = 1.47, 95%CI: 1.25-1.73, p < 0.001) and taking Dolutegravir containing ART regimen were factors significantly associated with VL suppression after IAC. CONCLUSION VL suppression proportion of 66.4% after IAC in this population was comparable to 70%, the percentage over which adherence interventions have been shown to cause VL re-suppression. However, timely IAC intervention is needed from receipt of unsuppressed VL results to IAC process completion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Nakaye
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda.
| | | | | | - Hajira Kataike
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hellen Kaganzi
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Miriam Ahimbisibwe
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gerald Bright Businge
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Raymonds Crespo Kyambadde
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rita Nakalega
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
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Limited Impact of First-Line Drug Resistance Mutations on Virologic Response Among Patients Receiving Second-Line Antiretroviral Therapy in Rural Uganda. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:84-88. [PMID: 36150042 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delayed detection of ART failure in settings without access to viral load (VL) monitoring has been hypothesized to lead to suboptimal response to second-line therapy due to accumulated drug resistance mutations (DRMs). We tested this hypothesis in a program setting in rural Uganda. METHODS From June 2012 to January 2014, we enrolled participants receiving nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based first-line ART for ≥4 years, without access to VL monitoring. Participants who had a measured VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL on two occasions were switched to protease inhibitor-based regimens and followed every 6 months until September 2016. We measured VL at study exit. We conducted DRM testing at enrollment and study exit and examined factors associated with virologic failure. RESULTS We enrolled 137 participants (64.3% female) with a median age of 44 years and a median duration on ART of 6.0 years. In a median of 2.8 years of follow-up, 7 (5%) died, 5 (3.6%) voluntarily withdrew, and 9 (6.6%) became lost to follow-up. Of 116 participants with a VL result at study exit, 20 (17%) had VL > 1000 copies/mL. Virologic failure was associated with reporting suboptimal adherence ( P = 0.028). Of patients with DRM data at enrollment, 103 of 105 (98%) had at least 1 DRM. Participants with thymidine analog mutations at enrollment were less likely to have virologic failure at study exit (11% vs. 36%; P = 0.007). No other DRMs were associated with failure. CONCLUSION Even in the presence of multiple DRMs on first-line therapy, virologic failure after 3 years of protease inhibitor-based ART was infrequent. Suboptimal adherence to ART was associated with virologic failure.
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11
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Beja H, Daisy N, Edek MT, Kobusinge V, Akaki O, Owachgiu IO, Udho S. Barriers and Facilitators to Successful Intensive Adherence Counseling in Rural Northern Uganda: An Exploratory Interview with HIV-Positive Clients Using the COM-B Framework. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:553-563. [PMID: 36439708 PMCID: PMC9699700 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s393093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Intensive adherence counseling (IAC) was introduced as a strategy to enhance adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among HIV clients with non-suppressed viral loads. There has been sub-optimal viral load suppression among HIV clients in Uganda enrolled in IAC. However, there is a scarcity of literature on the barriers and facilitators of successful IAC. We aim to explore the barriers and facilitators to successful IAC among HIV-positive clients seeking care in public health facilities in rural northern Uganda. Patients and Methods This was an exploratory qualitative study conducted among 15 purposively sampled HIV-positive clients enrolled in IAC in public health facilities offering ART services in northern Uganda. We conducted in-depth interviews using semi-structured interview guides based on the capability, opportunity, motivation, and behavior (COM-B) framework for behaviour change. Data were analyzed using the deductive thematic approach of Braun and Clarke following the COM-B framework. Results The majority of the participants were females (60%), married (53%), and attained primary education (47%). Barriers to successful IAC were Capability - alcoholism and promiscuity, Opportunity - stigma and discrimination, delayed viral load result, shortage of food, and heavy workload; and Motivation - deteriorating health and lack of incentives. Facilitators to successful IAC were Capability - good knowledge of ART, good memory, and reminder alerts; Opportunity - availability of ART, social support, availability of ART, prolonged ART refill, and good counseling; and Motivation - desire to live longer and healthy and the desire to fulfill dreams and goals. Conclusion Successful implementation of IAC needs to consider the context of the person in care thus the need to strengthen individualized IAC sessions. HIV care providers can adopt the COM-B framework to perform individualized IACs and use the information to strengthen the counseling sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humphrey Beja
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Nakayiwa Daisy
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Micheal Tonny Edek
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Veronic Kobusinge
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Oscar Akaki
- Department of Environmental Health & Disease Control, Faculty of Public Health, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | | | - Samson Udho
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing & Midwifery, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
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12
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Anito AA, Lenjebo TL, Woticha E, Solomon F. Magnitude of Viral Load Suppression and Associated Factors among Clients on Antiretroviral Therapy in Public Hospitals of Hawassa City Administration, Ethiopia. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:529-538. [PMID: 36425750 PMCID: PMC9680672 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s387787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A majority of clients on first-line antiretroviral therapy with an initial high viral load will resuppress following an adherence intervention. Some sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were found to affect resuppression. Few reports on the outcome of the intervention and its associated factors in our country, with inconsistent results and some missed clinical factors of potential association, have compelled this study. The study aimed to assess the proportion of viral load suppression and associated factors among clients on antiretroviral therapy in public hospitals of Hawassa City Administration, Ethiopia. METHODS An institution-based cross-sectional study with retrospective document review was conducted among 342 participants on antiretroviral therapy enrolled for counseling since its start in November 2016. Data were captured using a pretested and structured checklist from all client charts with complete data, entered into EpiData 3.1.0 and exported to SPSS 27 for analysis. The proportion of viral load suppression was determined. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify associated factors. Statistical significance was determined at a 95% CI and P<0.05. RESULTS The proportion of viral load suppression was found to be 40.9% (35.7%-46.5%). Nevirapine-based antiretroviral treatment regimens (AOR 0.125, 95% CI 0.034-0.464), malnutrition (AOR 0.565, 95% CI 0.329-0.971), poor adherence (AOR 0.504, 95% CI 0.287-0.886), lower CD4 count (AOR 0.149, 95% CI 0.071, 0.314), and fewer counseling sessions (AOR 0.330, 95% CI 0.149-0.729) were significantly associated with viral load suppression. CONCLUSION The proportion of viral load suppression is lower than that recommended by the World Health Organization. Nevirapine-based regimens, poor nutritional status, poor adherence, lower CD4 count, and fewer counseling sessions risk a lower proportion of viral load suppression. This calls for the need to devise strategies to address these factors and to revisit program implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eskinder Woticha
- School of Public Health, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Fithamlak Solomon
- School of Medical Laboratory, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
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13
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Nanfuka M, Forrest JI, Zhang W, Okoboi S, Birungi J, Kaleebu P, Zhu J, Tibenganas S, Moore DM. Durability of non-nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based first-line ART regimens after 7 years of treatment in rural Uganda: A prospective cohort study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e25763. [PMID: 34106606 PMCID: PMC8133171 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000025763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Most antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs in resource-limited settings have historically used non-nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based regimens with limited access to routine viral load (VL) testing. We examined the long-term success of these regimens in rural Uganda among participants with 1 measured suppressed VL.We conducted a prospective cohort study of participants who had been on NNRTI-based first-line regimens for ≥4 years and had a VL <1000 copies/mL at enrollment in Jinja, Uganda. We collected clinical and behavioral data every 6 months and measured VL again after 3 years. We quantified factors associated with virologic failure (VF) (VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL) using Wilcoxon Rank Sum, chi-square, and Fisher's Exact Tests.We enrolled 503 participants; 75.9% were female, the median age was 45 years, and the median duration of time on ART was 6.8 years (IQR = 6.0-7.6 years). Sixty-nine percent of participants were receiving nevirapine, lamivudine, and zidovudine regimens; 22.5% were receiving efavirenz, lamivudine, and zidovudine; and 8.6% were receiving other regimens. Of the 479 with complete follow-up data, 12 (2.5%) had VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL. VF was inversely associated with reporting never missing pills (41.7% of VFs vs 72.8% non-VFs, P = .034). There were differences in distribution of the previous ART regimens (P = .005), but no clear associations with specific regimens. There was no association between having a VL of 50 to 999 copies/mL at enrollment and later VF (P = .160).Incidence of VF among individuals receiving ART for nearly 7 years was very low in the subsequent 3 years. NNRTI-based regimens appear to be very durable among those with good initial adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jamie I. Forrest
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Wendy Zhang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
| | | | | | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Uganda Virus Research Institute/London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Julia Zhu
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
| | | | - David M. Moore
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
- Uganda Virus Research Institute/London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
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Nakalega R, Mukiza N, Debem H, Kiwanuka G, Kakumba RM, Menge R, Kagimu IK, Nakaye C, Babirye JA, Kaganzi H, Lukyamuzi Z, Kizito S, Kuteesa CN, Mujugira A. Linkage to intensive adherence counselling among HIV-positive persons on ART with detectable viral load in Gomba district, rural Uganda. AIDS Res Ther 2021; 18:15. [PMID: 33879190 PMCID: PMC8059243 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-021-00349-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is a primary determinant of sustained viral suppression, HIV transmission risk, disease progression and death. The World Health Organization recommends that adherence support interventions be provided to people on ART, but implementation is suboptimal. We evaluated linkage to intensive adherence counselling (IAC) for persons on ART with detectable viral load (VL). METHODS Between January and December 2017, we conducted a retrospective chart review of HIV-positive persons on ART with detectable VL (> 1000 copies/ml), in Gomba district, rural Uganda. We abstracted records from eight HIV clinics; seven health center III's (facilities which provide basic preventive and curative care and are headed by clinical officers) and a health center IV (mini-hospital headed by a medical doctor). Linkage to IAC was defined as provision of IAC to ART clients with detectable VL within three months of receipt of results at the health facility. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate factors associated with linkage to IAC. RESULTS Of 4,100 HIV-positive persons on ART for at least 6 months, 411 (10%) had detectable VL. The median age was 32 years (interquartile range [IQR] 13-43) and 52% were female. The median duration on ART was 3.2 years (IQR 1.8-4.8). A total of 311 ART clients (81%) were linked to IAC. Receipt of ART at a Health Center level IV was associated with a two-fold higher odds of IAC linkage compared with Health Center level III (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.78; 95% CI 1.00-3.16; p = 0.01). Age, gender, marital status and ART duration were not related to IAC linkage. CONCLUSIONS Linkage to IAC was high among persons with detectable VL in rural Uganda, with greater odds of linkage at a higher-level health facility. Strategies to optimize IAC linkage at lower-level health facilities for persons with suboptimal ART adherence are needed.
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15
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Jopling R, Nyamayaro P, Andersen LS, Kagee A, Haberer JE, Abas MA. A Cascade of Interventions to Promote Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in African Countries. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2021; 17:529-546. [PMID: 32776179 PMCID: PMC7497365 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00511-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review We reviewed interventions to improve uptake and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in African countries in the Treat All era. Recent Findings ART initiation can be improved by facilitated rapid receipt of first prescription, including community-based linkage and point-of-care strategies, integration of HIV care into antenatal care and peer support for adolescents. For people living with HIV (PLHIV) on ART, scheduled SMS reminders, ongoing intensive counselling for those with viral non-suppression and economic incentives for the most deprived show promise. Adherence clubs should be promoted, being no less effective than facility-based care for stable patients. Tracing those lost to follow-up should be targeted to those who can be seen face-to-face by a peer worker. Summary Investment is needed to promote linkage to initiating ART and for differentiated approaches to counselling for youth and for those with identified suboptimal adherence. More evidence from within Africa is needed on cost-effective strategies to identify and support PLHIV at an increased risk of non-adherence across the treatment cascade. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s11904-020-00511-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Jopling
- Health Service & Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Primrose Nyamayaro
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Mazowe Street, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Lena S Andersen
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Groote Schuur Hospital Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ashraf Kagee
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Melanie Amna Abas
- Health Service & Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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Brown JA, Mbunkah HA, Lejone TI, Ringera I, Cheleboi M, Klimkait T, Metzner KJ, Günthard HF, Labhardt ND, Kouyos RD, Tschumi N. Emergence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Drug Resistance During the 3-Month World Health Organization-Recommended Enhanced Adherence Counseling Period in the CART-1 Cohort Study. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab046. [PMID: 34046513 PMCID: PMC8137466 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In resource-limited settings, the World Health Organization recommends enhanced adherence counseling (EAC) for individuals with an unsuppressed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 viral load (VL) and to remeasure VL after 3 months to avoid unnecessary regimen switches. In cases in which this follow-up VL remains unsuppressed, a regimen switch is indicated. We aimed to assess levels of HIV-1 drug resistance before and after the EAC period among people with ongoing viremia (≥80 c/mL) after EAC. Methods We included adult participants of the CART-1 cohort study conducted in Lesotho who had a VL ≥80 c/mL after EAC. Paired plasma samples (before and after EAC) were analyzed by next-generation sequencing. We assessed the prevalence of resistance-associated mutations and viral susceptibility scores to each participant’s antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen (range, 0–3; 3 indicates complete susceptibility). Results Among 93 participants taking nonnucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor-based ART with an initial VL ≥1000 copies/mL who received a follow-up VL test after EAC, 76 still had a VL ≥80 copies/mL after EAC, and paired samples were available for 57 of 76. The number of individuals without full susceptibility to any drug in their regimen increased from 31 of 57 (54.4%) before to 36 of 57 (63.2%) after EAC. Median susceptibility scores dropped from 0.5 (interquartile range [IQR] = 0.25–) to 0.25 (IQR = 0.25–1) during the EAC period (P = .16). Conclusions Despite high levels of resistance before EAC, we observed a slight decline in susceptibility scores after EAC. The risk of further accumulation of resistance during EAC has to be balanced against the benefit of avoiding unnecessary switches in those with spontaneous resuppression after EAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Brown
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Herbert A Mbunkah
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thabo I Lejone
- SolidarMed, Swiss Organization for Health in Africa, Maseru, Lesotho
| | - Isaac Ringera
- SolidarMed, Swiss Organization for Health in Africa, Maseru, Lesotho
| | | | - Thomas Klimkait
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Karin J Metzner
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Huldrych F Günthard
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Niklaus D Labhardt
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roger D Kouyos
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nadine Tschumi
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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