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Reyniers T, Babo SAY, Ouedraogo M, Kanta I, Ekon Agbégnigan L, Rojas D, Eubanks A, Anoma C, Dah TTE, Mensah E, Dembélé Keita B, Spire B, Vuylsteke B, Laurent C. Strategies to improve PrEP uptake among West African men who have sex with men: a multi-country qualitative study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1165327. [PMID: 37181706 PMCID: PMC10167043 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1165327] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction West African men who have sex with men (MSM) remain at substantial risk of contracting HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can be an effective game-changer in reducing the number of HIV infections in MSM communities. To optimize the roll-out of PrEP, we need to better understand how we can increase its uptake. The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions of West African MSM toward PrEP and their proposed strategies to overcome barriers to PrEP uptake within their communities. Methods Between April 2019 and November 2021, we conducted 12 focus group discussions with 97 MSM not taking PrEP, and 64 semi-structured interviews with MSM taking PrEP, in Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, and Togo. Data collection and analysis were guided and conducted by local research teams, enabling a community-based participatory approach. A coordinating researcher collaborated with these local teams to analyze the data guided by a grounded theory approach. Results The results show that participants were generally positive toward PrEP and that MSM communities have become more aware of PrEP for the study. We identified three main strategies for increasing PrEP uptake. First, participants proposed to raise awareness and improve knowledge of HIV as they considered the self-perceived risk of MSM in their communities to be low. Second, because of existing misconceptions and false information, participants proposed to improve the dissemination of PrEP to allow for informed choices, e.g., via peers or PrEP users themselves. Third, as oral PrEP also entails a risk of being associated with HIV or homosexuality, strategies to avoid stigmatization (e.g., hiding pills) were deemed important. Discussion These findings indicate that the roll-out of oral PrEP and other future PrEP modalities should be accompanied by raising awareness and improving knowledge on HIV, and wide dissemination of information that focuses on the health-promoting aspect of these tools. Tailored delivery and long-acting PrEP modalities will be important to avoid potential stigmatization. Sustained efforts to prevent discrimination and stigmatization based on HIV status or sexual orientation continue to be highly important strategies to address the HIV epidemic in West Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | - Daniela Rojas
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France
- Coalition Plus, Community-based Research Laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - August Eubanks
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France
| | | | - Ter Tiero Elias Dah
- Association African Solidarité, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- UFR Sciences de la Santé, Université de Ouahigouya, Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Rossotti R, Nava A, Baiguera C, Calzavara D, D'Amico F, Fanti D, Bana NB, Vismara C, Cernuschi M, Scaglione F, Puoti M. High prevalence of anal papillomavirus infection in men who have sex with men PrEP users. Sex Transm Infect 2022:sextrans-2022-055447. [PMID: 35882547 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2022-055447] [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: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STI and is associated with a wide range of diseases from anogenital warts to malignancies. Anal HPV infection is considerably more common in men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV. Aims of the present study are to (i) describe the prevalence of anal HPV infection in MSM who started pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and (ii) analyse factors associated with anal infection from genotypes that would be covered by nonavalent vaccination. METHODS This monocentric, cross-sectional study included all subjects who started PrEP from May 2018 to November 2021. PrEP candidates underwent full behavioural and clinical evaluation, including digital anal rectal examination and swabbing for HPV determination. Descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test for continuous and χ2 tests for categorical variables were adopted. Unadjusted and adjusted regression analyses were performed to assess factors associated with positive anal swabs and to the presence of genotypes covered by the nonavalent vaccination. RESULTS The analysis included 288 subjects: anal swabs tested positive in 87.2% of cases, 79.2% of the subjects had a high-risk genotype (mainly 16), whereas 67.4% had a genotype covered by nonavalent vaccine. Sexual role was the only factor associated with anal HPV infection. Use of recreational drugs and a diagnosis of ≥2 STIs correlated with the presence of genotypes that would have been covered by vaccine, while previous vaccination had a protective role. CONCLUSIONS PrEP candidates showed a high prevalence of anal HPV infection, especially due to high-risk genotypes, comparable to what has been reported in MSM living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Rossotti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Nava
- Chemical-Clinical and Microbiological Analyses, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Baiguera
- Department of Infectious Diseases, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Federico D'Amico
- Department of Infectious Diseases, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Diana Fanti
- Chemical-Clinical and Microbiological Analyses, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicholas Brian Bana
- Department of Infectious Diseases, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Vismara
- Chemical-Clinical and Microbiological Analyses, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Cernuschi
- Milano Checkpoint, Milan, Italy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Scientifico Universitario San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Scaglione
- Chemical-Clinical and Microbiological Analyses, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Puoti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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3
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Wiginton JM, Eaton LA, Watson RJ, Maksut JL, Earnshaw VA, Berman M. Sex-Positivity, Medical Mistrust, and PrEP Conspiracy Beliefs Among HIV-Negative Cisgender Black Sexual Minority Men in Atlanta, Georgia. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2571-2581. [PMID: 34761347 PMCID: PMC9085967 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02174-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Because the public health response to the disproportionate HIV burden faced by Black sexual minority men (BSMMM) has focused on sexual risk reduction and disease prevention, other vital components of sexual health (e.g., intimacy, pleasure, benefits of sex) have been often overlooked. Sex-positive describes a more open, holistic approach toward sex and sexuality that prioritizes these other components, though such an approach is rarely applied to BSMM's sexual health. For sex-positive BSMM, risk/preventive discourse may foster or exacerbate medical mistrust as a reaction to the dissonance between how these men view sexual health and how the medical establishment views it, which may discourage sexual healthcare-seeking. We assessed sex-positivity and its association with medical mistrust and PrEP conspiracy beliefs among 206 HIV-negative cisgender BSMM in Atlanta, Georgia. We performed exploratory factor analytic procedures on responses to a sex-positivity scale, followed by multivariable linear regressions to determine sex-positivity's associations with medical mistrust and PrEP conspiracy beliefs. We extracted two sex-positivity factors: sexual freedom (α = 0.90), reflecting openness toward casual sex and rejection of sexual mores, and essence of sex (α = 0.77), reflecting the intimate, relational, and pleasurable qualities of sex. Sexual freedom was independently associated with perceived provider deception (β = 0.19, CI = 0.04, 0.34). Essence of sex was independently associated with PrEP conspiracy beliefs (β = 0.16, CI = 0.02, 0.31) and marginally associated with perceived provider deception (β = 0.14, CI = - 0.00, 0.29). Healthcare providers and public health practitioners may cultivate greater trust with BSMM by incorporating a sex-positive approach into patient/participant interactions, clinical decision-making, and interventions. Improving access to sexual pleasure acknowledges BSMM's right to optimal, holistic sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Mark Wiginton
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Ryan J Watson
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Jessica L Maksut
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Valerie A Earnshaw
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Marcie Berman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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Buffel V, Reyniers T, Masquillier C, Thunissen E, Nöstlinger C, Laga M, Wouters E, Berghe WV, Deblonde J, Vuylsteke B. Awareness of, Willingness to Take PrEP and Its Actual Use Among Belgian MSM at High Risk of HIV Infection: Secondary Analysis of the Belgian European MSM Internet Survey. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1793-1807. [PMID: 34817766 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03526-z] [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] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We examined PrEP awareness, willingness to take it and early PrEP use among men who have sex with men (MSM) at increased risk of HIV acquisition in Belgium. This analysis of the Belgian EMIS online data of 2017-2018 adopts a cascade approach, with the following steps quantified as conditional probabilities: being eligible for, aware of, willing to take PrEP, and PrEP use. One out of three MSM was eligible to use PrEP according to the operationalized Belgian reimbursement criteria. PrEP awareness was lower among socioeconomically vulnerable MSM, MSM living outside large cities, MSM who were less open about their sexuality and those who did not identify as gay or homosexual. A lack of PrEP knowledge, a higher self-efficacy regarding safe sex, having a steady partner and reporting more symptoms of depression were related to unwillingness to use PrEP. Among those willing to take PrEP, less than one third were actually using PrEP. Not using PrEP was associated with living in small cities and experiencing financial problems.
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Sepodes B, Rocha J, Batista J, Figueira ME, Dráfi F, Torre C. Implementation and Access to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for Human Immunodeficiency Virus by Men Who Have Sex With Men in Europe. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:722247. [PMID: 34513883 PMCID: PMC8424070 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.722247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a significant public health intervention with proven efficacy and safety in the prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, which has taken a considerable amount of time to reach Europe in relation to their transatlantic counterparts, namely, the United States of America (USA). There, it is perceived as being an essential prevention tool to be integrated within existing medical, behavioral and structural interventions in place for the management and containment of HIV infection in men who have sex with men (MSM). In a region such as Europe, with approximately double the USA population, it is estimated that not even 10% have proper access to PrEP, and given the lack of coordination with healthcare, taking PrEP has to be at their own expense. Here, we identify the reasons behind the 4-year lag in the approval of PrEP in the European Union/European Economic Area (and Europe in general) and explore the efficacy and effectiveness of PrEP needed to be confirmed with some implementation or demonstration studies conducted in the region. Independent of the data gathered, access of MSM to PrEP is far from ideal in Europe and much still needs to be done. The demonstration of the cost-effectiveness of PrEP alongside other social and behavioral factors needs to be addressed, while the clear populations within MSM that will benefit from this intervention are properly identified and make use of the latest recommendations of the World Health Organization that consider not only daily PrEP but also event-driven PrEP. The momentum for the proper implementation of PrEP in the EU is not lost, and with the existence of generics and even new formulations, there is a renewed opportunity for unleashing the public health benefits arising from this pharmacological tool with other interventions in place (e.g., condoms, testing, and counseling).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Sepodes
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical & Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical & Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jorge Batista
- Unidade de Saúde Pública Internacional e Bioestatística, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria-Eduardo Figueira
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical & Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - František Dráfi
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Carla Torre
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical & Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
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A Comparison of Tenofovir Predose Concentrations in Generic Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Formulations: A Short Communication. Ther Drug Monit 2021; 42:643-647. [PMID: 32701254 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is extensive evidence to show that pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) using tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-based formulations dramatically reduces the risk of HIV acquisition among individuals without HIV infection. Here, the authors aim to compare tenofovir plasma predose concentrations in subjects taking PrEP daily versus on demand and using different TDF-based generic formulations. METHODS Subjects providing informed signed consent for the measurement of tenofovir plasma levels were included in the study. Predose drug concentrations were stratified according to PrEP administration and the type of TDF-based formulation. The control group consisted of patients with HIV infection who were matched for renal function and were administered branded TDF that was not combined with boosted-antiretroviral drugs. RESULTS The study consisted of 100 subjects (mean age, 39 ± 10 years; body weight, 77 ± 11 kg). A wide distribution in tenofovir predose concentrations was observed, with values ranging from 17 to 297 ng/mL (coefficient of variation 77%). No significant differences were noted in tenofovir predose concentrations between subjects who were administered PrEP daily (n = 75) or on demand (n = 25) [94 (35-255) versus 104 (37-287) ng/mL; P = 0.476]. Comparable tenofovir predose concentrations were found between patients with HIV infection (n = 220) who were administered branded TDF and those without HIV infection who were treated with 5 different generic TDF-based formulations with generics-to-branded ratios. These were always within the range of 80%-125% and were used to define bioequivalence. CONCLUSIONS The marketed generic formulations of TDF delivered tenofovir plasma predose concentrations comparable with those delivered by branded formulations.
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Cordioli M, Gios L, Huber JW, Sherriff N, Folch C, Alexiev I, Dias S, Nöstlinger C, Gama A, Naseva E, Valkovičová Staneková D, Marcus U, Schink SB, Rosinska M, Blondeel K, Toskin I, Mirandola M. Estimating the percentage of European MSM eligible for PrEP: insights from a bio-behavioural survey in thirteen cities. Sex Transm Infect 2021; 97:534-540. [PMID: 33441447 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This paper aims to estimate the percentage of European men who have sex with men (MSM) who may benefit from pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), applying the three most widely used HIV risk indices for MSM (MSM Risk Index, Menza score, San Diego Early Test (SDET) score) and drawing on a large-scale multisite bio-behavioural survey (Sialon II). METHODS The Sialon II study was a bio-behavioural survey among MSM implemented in 13 European cities using either time-location sampling or respondent-driven sampling. Biological and behavioural data from 4901 MSM were collected. Only behavioural data of HIV-negative individuals were considered. Three widely used risk indices to assess HIV acquisition risk among MSM were used to estimate individual HIV risk scores and PrEP eligibility criteria. RESULTS 4219 HIV-negative MSM were considered. Regardless the HIV risk score used and the city, percentages of MSM eligible for PrEP were found to range between 5.19% and 73.84%. Overall, the MSM Risk Index and the Menza score yielded broadly similar percentages, whereas the SDET Index provided estimates constantly lower across all cities. Although all the three scores correlated positively (r>0.6), their concordance was highly variable (0.01<CCC<0.62). CONCLUSION Our findings showed the impact of different scoring systems on the estimation of the percentage of MSM who may benefit from PrEP in European cities. Although our primary aim was not to compare the performance of different HIV risk scores, data show that a considerable percentage of MSM in each city should be offered PrEP in order to reduce HIV infections. As PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV among MSM, our findings provide useful, practical guidance for stakeholders in implementing PrEP at city level to tackle HIV infections in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Cordioli
- Infectious Diseases Section, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Gios
- Infectious Diseases Section, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Jörg W Huber
- School of Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Nigel Sherriff
- School of Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Cinta Folch
- Centre for Epidemiological Studies on Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV/AIDS of Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Catalonia Public Health Agency (ASPCAT), Badalona, Spain - Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ivailo Alexiev
- National Reference Confirmatory Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Sónia Dias
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Ana Gama
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Emilia Naseva
- Ministry of Health, Program "Prevention and control of HIV/AIDS", Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | - Ulrich Marcus
- Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Magdalena Rosinska
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Surveillance, National Institute of Public Health-National Institute of Hygiene, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Karel Blondeel
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium.,UNDP-UNFPA-UNICEF-WHO-World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Igor Toskin
- UNDP-UNFPA-UNICEF-WHO-World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Massimo Mirandola
- Infectious Diseases Section, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,School of Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
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Edwards J, Hinds A, Lyons N, Edwards J, Quammie S, Figueroa JP. A Chart Review Study of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Persons Living with HIV Attending an STI Clinic in Trinidad. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2020; 18:2325958219888463. [PMID: 31726934 PMCID: PMC6859682 DOI: 10.1177/2325958219888463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A chart review study of the sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevalence among persons living with HIV (PLHIV) was conducted among STI clinic attendees in Trinidad between January 2012 and December 2012. Data were abstracted from client records to obtain the clinical and the laboratory diagnoses of STIs. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted, and factors significantly associated with the presence of a STI were assessed using multiple logistic regression. During this period, 385 PLHIV were seen; 104 (27.0%) were newly HIV diagnosed and 281 (73.0%) had a known history of HIV infection; 135 (35.1%) were diagnosed with a STI. Patients with known HIV infection were more likely to be diagnosed with a STI than those who were newly diagnosed (odds ratios: 6.99; 95% confidence interval: 3.79-12.89). The STI prevalence was high among PLHIV in Trinidad, identifying them as a critical target group for public health interventions to prevent the spread of HIV and STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Edwards
- Medical Research Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Avery Hinds
- Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Nyla Lyons
- Medical Research Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Jonathan Edwards
- Medical Research Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Shauntelle Quammie
- Medical Research Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
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Zimmermann HML, Eekman SW, Achterbergh RCA, Schim van der Loeff MF, Prins M, de Vries HJC, Hoornenborg E, Davidovich U. Motives for choosing, switching and stopping daily or event-driven pre-exposure prophylaxis - a qualitative analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25389. [PMID: 31612621 PMCID: PMC6791997 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In settings where both daily and event-driven pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are offered to men who have sex with men (MSM), a clear understanding of the motives to choose between the different dosing-regimens can facilitate more effective PrEP implementation. We therefore studied the motives for choosing for, switching between, and stopping daily or event-driven PrEP. METHODS We used data (August 2015-June 2017) from the prospective, longitudinal, open-label Amsterdam PrEP demonstration study, in which daily (dPrEP) and event-driven PrEP (edPrEP) were offered to 374 HIV-negative MSM and two transgender persons. Participants self-selected the preferred PrEP-regimen at baseline and could switch regimens at three-monthly follow-up visits. We measured motives for choosing PrEP-regimen at baseline and for switching and stopping PrEP at follow-up visits. Open- and closed-end items were combined and qualitatively analysed. RESULTS Choices of PrEP-regimens were determined by personal and contextual factors, involving the perceived self-efficacy concerning adherence, the risk-context, and the anticipated impact of PrEP on physical and sexual wellbeing. dPrEP was preferred because of the anticipated better adherence and the fear of side-effects relating to edPrEP re-initiations. Moreover, dPrEP was perceived to be more effective than edPrEP. Motives to choose edPrEP were the expected physical burden of dPrEP, anticipated side-effects of dPrEP, and fear to forget daily doses. Regarding the risk-context: dPrEP was preferred for unplanned and/or frequent sex, while edPrEP was chosen when risk was predictable and/or less frequent. While some chose for dPrEP to gain more sexual freedom, others chose for edPrEP to minimize sexual risk episodes. Changes in the above factors, such as changing risk patterns, changing relationships or changing physical conditions, resulted in switching regimens. Choices to stop PrEP were related to lower sexual risk, adherence issues and side-effects. CONCLUSIONS The great diversity of motives illustrates the importance of offering a choice of PrEP-regimens. In counselling of MSM starting PrEP, choices for PrEP-regimens may be addressed as a continuum of flexible and changeable options over time. This may help individuals choose the PrEP-regimen that best fits their current sexual context, priorities and personal capabilities and therefore will be more easily adhered to.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne ML Zimmermann
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Sanne W Eekman
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Roel CA Achterbergh
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service of AmsterdamSTI Outpatient ClinicAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Maarten F Schim van der Loeff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Department of Infectious DiseasesAmsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AI&II)Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Department of Infectious DiseasesAmsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AI&II)Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Henry JC de Vries
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service of AmsterdamSTI Outpatient ClinicAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Department of DermatologyAmsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AI&II)Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service of AmsterdamSTI Outpatient ClinicAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and PreventionPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Department of Infectious DiseasesAmsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AI&II)Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
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10
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Choosing Between Daily and Event-Driven Pre-exposure Prophylaxis: Results of a Belgian PrEP Demonstration Project. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 79:186-194. [PMID: 29975211 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Daily pre-exposure prophylaxis and event-driven pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are efficacious in reducing HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM). We analyzed baseline data from a PrEP demonstration project "Be-PrEP-ared" in Antwerp, Belgium, to understand preferences for daily PrEP or event-driven PrEP among MSM at high risk of HIV and factors influencing their initial choice. METHODS Cross-sectional data from an open-label prospective cohort study, using mixed methods. Participants who preregistered online were screened for eligibility and tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Eligible participants chose between daily PrEP and event-driven PrEP and reported on behavioral data through an electronic questionnaire. In-depth interviews were conducted with a selected subsample. Bivariate associations were examined between preferred PrEP regimens and sociodemographic factors, sexual behavior, and STIs at screening. RESULTS In total, 200 participants were enrolled between October 2015 and December 2016. Self-reported levels of sexual risk-taking before enrollment were high. STI screening revealed that 39.5% had at least 1 bacterial STI. At baseline, 76.5% of participants preferred daily PrEP and 23.5% event-driven PrEP. Feeling able to anticipate HIV risk was the most frequent reason for preferring event-driven PrEP. Regimen choice was associated with sexual risk-taking behavior in the past 3 months. Almost all participants (95.7%) considered it likely that they would change their dosing regimen the following year. CONCLUSION Event-driven PrEP was preferred by 23.5% of the participants, which better suits their preventive needs. Event-driven PrEP should be included in PrEP provision as a valuable alternative to daily PrEP for MSM at high risk of HIV.
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Mboumba Bouassa RS, Bélec L, Gubavu C, Péré H, Matta M, Maka A, Puech J, Tonen Wolyec S, Veyer D, Gravier A, Hocqueloux L, Prazuck T. High Prevalence of Anal and Oral High-Risk Human Papillomavirus in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Uninfected French Men Who Have Sex With Men and Use Preexposure Prophylaxis. Open Forum Infect Dis 2019; 6:ofz291. [PMID: 31660393 PMCID: PMC6735951 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofz291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We assessed the prevalence and risk factors of anal and oral high-risk (HR) human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in human immunodeficiency virus–uninfected men who have sex with men (MSM) and take preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in France. Methods Anal and oral samples were screened by multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (Anyplex II HPV 28; Seegene) for HPV DNA. Results A total of 61 unvaccinated MSM (mean age, 36.1 years) were enrolled. Anal HPV and HR-HPV prevalences were 93.4% and 81.9%, respectively, and oral HPV and HR-HPV prevalences, 33.9% and 19.6%, respectively. HR-HPV type 33 was the most detected genotype, in both anal and oral samples. Among MSM, 68.8% carried ≥1 anal HPV type targeted by the 9-valent Gardasil-9 vaccine; all oral HPV-positive samples carried ≥1 strain included in the vaccine. Condomless receptive anal intercourse and history of anal gonorrhea were the main factors associated with increased risk for anal HPV infection (adjusted odds ratio, 10.4) and anal infection with multiple HR-HPV genotypes (5.77), respectively. Conversely, having had <10 partners in the last 12 months was associated with decreased risk for anal carriage of both multiple HPV (adjusted odds ratio, 0.19) and HR-HPV (0.17) types. Conclusion French MSM using PrEP are at high risk for both anal and oral carriage of HR-HPV that could lead to HPV-related cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph-Sydney Mboumba Bouassa
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris and Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité, France.,Ecole Doctorale Régionale en Infectiologie Tropicale, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Laurent Bélec
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris and Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité, France
| | - Camelia Gubavu
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Centre Hospitalier Régional d'Orléans, and the Centre Gratuit d'Information, de Dépistage et de Diagnostic d'Orléans, France
| | - Hélène Péré
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris and Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité, France
| | - Mathieu Matta
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris and Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité, France
| | - Artur Maka
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Centre Hospitalier Régional d'Orléans, and the Centre Gratuit d'Information, de Dépistage et de Diagnostic d'Orléans, France
| | - Julien Puech
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris and Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité, France
| | - Serge Tonen Wolyec
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale en Infectiologie Tropicale, Franceville, Gabon.,Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Université de Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - David Veyer
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris and Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité, France
| | - Anne Gravier
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Centre Hospitalier Régional d'Orléans, and the Centre Gratuit d'Information, de Dépistage et de Diagnostic d'Orléans, France
| | - Laurent Hocqueloux
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Centre Hospitalier Régional d'Orléans, and the Centre Gratuit d'Information, de Dépistage et de Diagnostic d'Orléans, France
| | - Thierry Prazuck
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Centre Hospitalier Régional d'Orléans, and the Centre Gratuit d'Information, de Dépistage et de Diagnostic d'Orléans, France
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Abstract
HealthMpowerment.org (HMP), is a mobile optimized, online intervention to reduce sexual risk behaviors among HIV-positive and HIV-negative young Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) by providing information and resources, fostering social support, and including game-based elements. A randomized controlled trial with 474 young BMSM compared HMP to an information-only control website. The rate of self-reported condomless anal intercourse (CAI) at 3-months was 32% lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (IRR 0.68, 95% CI 0.43, 0.93), however this effect was not sustained at 12 months. Among HIV-positive participants, the rate of CAI at 3-month follow-up was 82% lower among participants with detectable viral loads in the intervention group compared to the control group (IRR 0.18, 95% CI 0.04, 0.32). In a secondary analysis, when we limited to those who used HMP for over 60 min during the 3-month intervention period (n = 50, 25.8%), we estimated 4.85 (95% CI 2.15, 7.53) fewer CAI events than we would have expected in control participants, had they used the intervention at the same rate as the intervention group. Findings suggest that exposure to an online intervention can reduce the rate of CAI among young BMSM, at least in the short term. Given the stronger effect seen among those participants who complied with HMP, additional intervention engagement strategies are warranted.
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Impact of sexual trajectories of men who have sex with men on the reduction in HIV transmission by pre-exposure prophylaxis. Epidemics 2019; 28:100337. [PMID: 31126778 DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in sexual risk behavior over the life course in men who have sex with men (MSM) can influence population-level intervention efficacy. Our objective was to investigate the impact of incorporating sexual trajectories describing long-term changes in risk levels on the reduction in HIV prevalence by pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among MSM. Based on the Amsterdam Cohort Study data, we developed two models of HIV transmission in a population stratified by sexual behavior. In the first model, individuals were stratified into low, medium and high risk levels and did not change their risk levels. The second model had the same stratification but incorporated additionally three types of sexual behavior trajectories. The models assumed universal antiretroviral treatment of HIV+ MSM, and PrEP use by high risk HIV- MSM. We computed the relative reduction in HIV prevalence in both models for annual PrEP uptakes of 10% to 80% at different time points after PrEP introduction. We then investigated the impact of sexual trajectories on the effectiveness of PrEP intervention. The impact of sexual trajectories on the overall prevalence and prevalence in individuals at low, medium and high risk levels varied with PrEP uptake and time after PrEP introduction. Compared to the model without sexual trajectories, the model with trajectories predicted a higher impact of PrEP on the overall prevalence, and on the prevalence among the medium and high risk individuals. In low risk individuals, there was more reduction in prevalence during the first 15 years of PrEP intervention if sexual trajectories were not incorporated in the model. After that point, at low risk level there was more reduction in the model with trajectories. In conclusion, our study predicts that sexual trajectories increase the estimated impact of PrEP on reducing HIV prevalence when compared to a population where risk levels do not change.
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Elimination prospects of the Dutch HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men in the era of preexposure prophylaxis. AIDS 2018; 32:2615-2623. [PMID: 30379687 PMCID: PMC6221378 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising intervention to help end the HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Netherlands. We aimed to assess the impact of PrEP on HIV prevalence in this population and to determine the levels of PrEP coverage necessary for HIV elimination. Design and methods: We developed a mathematical model of HIV transmission in a population stratified by sexual risk behavior with universal antiretroviral treatment (ART) and daily PrEP use depending on an individual's risk behavior. We computed the effective reproduction number, HIV prevalence, ART and PrEP coverage for increasing ART and PrEP uptake levels, and examined how these were affected by PrEP effectiveness and duration of PrEP use. Results: At current levels of ART coverage of 80%, PrEP effectiveness of 86% and PrEP duration of 5 years, HIV elimination required 82% PrEP coverage in the highest risk group (12 000 MSM with more than 18 partners per year). If ART coverage increased by 9%, the elimination threshold was at 70% PrEP coverage. For shorter PrEP duration and lower effectiveness elimination prospects were less favorable. For the same number of PrEP users distributed among two groups with highest risk behavior, prevalence dropped from the current 8 to 4.6%. Conclusion: PrEP for HIV prevention among MSM could, in principle, eliminate HIV from this population in the Netherlands. The highest impact of PrEP on prevalence was predicted when ART and PrEP coverage increased simultaneously and PrEP was used by the highest risk individuals.
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Hambrick HR, Park SH, Goedel WC, Morganstein JG, Kreski NT, Mgbako O, Duncan DT. Rectal Douching Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Paris: Implications for HIV/STI Risk Behaviors and Rectal Microbicide Development. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:379-387. [PMID: 28766026 PMCID: PMC6007974 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1873-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Rectal douching is a common but potentially risky practice among MSM; MSM who douche may be ideal candidates for rectal microbicides as HIV prevention. Herein we explored rectal douching and its association with condomless receptive anal intercourse (CRAI), group sex, rates of HIV and other STIs, and likelihood to use rectal microbicide gels. We recruited a sample of 580 MSM from a geosocial-networking smartphone application in Paris, France in 2016. Regression models estimated adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) for associations between rectal douche use and (1) engagement in CRAI, (2) group sex, (3) self-reported HIV and STI diagnoses, and (4) likelihood to use rectal microbicide gels for HIV prevention. 54.3% of respondents used a rectal douche or enema in the preceding 3 months. Douching was significantly associated with CRAI (aRR: 1.77), participation in group sex (aRR: 1.42), HIV infection (aRR: 3.40), STI diagnosis (aRR: 1.73), and likelihood to use rectal microbicide gels (aRR: 1.78). Rectal douching is common among MSM, particularly those who practice CRAI, and rectal microbicide gels may be an acceptable mode of HIV prevention for MSM who use rectal douches.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Rhodes Hambrick
- Department of Population Health, Spatial Epidemiology Lab, New York University School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, 6th Floor, Room 621, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Su Hyun Park
- Department of Population Health, Spatial Epidemiology Lab, New York University School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, 6th Floor, Room 621, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - William C Goedel
- Department of Population Health, Spatial Epidemiology Lab, New York University School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, 6th Floor, Room 621, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Jace G Morganstein
- Department of Population Health, Spatial Epidemiology Lab, New York University School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, 6th Floor, Room 621, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Noah T Kreski
- Department of Population Health, Spatial Epidemiology Lab, New York University School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, 6th Floor, Room 621, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Ofole Mgbako
- Department of Population Health, Spatial Epidemiology Lab, New York University School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, 6th Floor, Room 621, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- New York University Internal Medicine Residency Program, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- Department of Population Health, Spatial Epidemiology Lab, New York University School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, 6th Floor, Room 621, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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Wilkinson AL, Draper BL, Pedrana AE, Asselin J, Holt M, Hellard ME, Stoové M. Measuring and understanding the attitudes of Australian gay and bisexual men towards biomedical HIV prevention using cross-sectional data and factor analyses. Sex Transm Infect 2017; 94:309-314. [PMID: 29162727 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2017-053375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 11/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Contemporary responses to HIV embrace biomedical prevention, particularly treatment as prevention (TasP) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). However, large-scale implementation of biomedical prevention should be ideally preceded by assessments of their community acceptability. We aimed to understand contemporary attitudes of gay and bisexual men (GBM) in Australia towards biomedical-based HIV prevention and propose a framework for their measurement and ongoing monitoring. METHODS A cross-sectional, online survey of GBM ≥18 years has been conducted annually in Victoria, Australia, since 2008. In 2016, 35 attitudinal items on biomedical HIV prevention were added. Items were scored on five-point Likert scales. We used principal factor analysis to identify key constructs related to GBM's attitudes to biomedical HIV prevention and use these to characterise levels of support for TasP and PrEP. RESULTS A total of 462 HIV-negative or HIV-status-unknown men, not using PrEP, provided valid responses for all 35 attitudinal items. We extracted four distinct and interpretable factors we named: 'Confidence in PrEP', 'Judicious approach to PrEP', 'Treatment as prevention optimism' and 'Support for early treatment'. High levels of agreement were seen across PrEP-related items; 77.9% of men agreed that PrEP prevented HIV acquisition and 83.6% of men agreed that users were protecting themselves. However, the agreement levels for HIV TasP items were considerably lower, with <20% of men agreeing treatment (undetectable viral load) reduced HIV transmission risk. CONCLUSIONS Better understanding of community attitudes is crucial for shaping policy and informing initiatives that aim to improve knowledge, acceptance and uptake of biomedical prevention. Our analyses suggest confidence in, acceptability of and community support for PrEP among GBM. However, strategies to address scepticism towards HIV treatment when used for prevention may be needed to optimise combination biomedical HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Wilkinson
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Alisa E Pedrana
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Alfred Health, Infectious Disease Department, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark Stoové
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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De Baetselier I, Reyniers T, Nöstlinger C, Wouters K, Fransen K, Crucitti T, Kenyon C, Buyze J, Schurmans C, Laga M, Vuylsteke B. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as an Additional Tool for HIV Prevention Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Belgium: The Be-PrEP-ared Study Protocol. JMIR Res Protoc 2017; 6:e11. [PMID: 28135199 PMCID: PMC5306610 DOI: 10.2196/resprot.6767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising and effective tool to prevent HIV. With the approval of Truvada as daily PrEP by the European Commission in August 2016, individual European Member states prepare themselves for PrEP implementation following the examples of France and Norway. However, context-specific data to guide optimal implementation is currently lacking. Objective With this demonstration project we evaluate whether daily and event-driven PrEP, provided within a comprehensive prevention package, is a feasible and acceptable additional prevention tool for men who have sex with men (MSM) at high risk of acquiring HIV in Belgium. The study’s primary objective is to document the uptake, acceptability, and adherence to both daily and event-driven PrEP, while several secondary objectives have been formulated including impact of PrEP use on sexual behavior. Methods The Be-PrEP-ared study is a phase 3, single-site, open-label prospective cohort study with a large social science component embedded in the trial. A total of 200 participants choose between daily or event-driven PrEP use and may switch, discontinue, or restart their regimen at the 3-monthly visits for a duration of 18 months. Data are collected on several platforms: an electronic case report form, a Web-based tool where participants register their sexual behavior and pill use, a more detailed electronic self-administered questionnaire completed during study visits on a tablet computer, and in-depth interviews among a selected sample of participants. To answer the primary objective, the recruitment rate, (un)safe sex behavior during the last 6 months, percentage of reported intention to use PrEP in the future, retention rates in different regimens, and attitudes towards PrEP use will be analyzed. Adherence will be monitored using self-reported adherence, pill count, tenofovir drug levels in blood samples, and the perceived skills to adhere. Results All participants are currently enrolled, and the last study visit is planned to take place around Q3 2018. Conclusions As PrEP is not yet available in Belgium for use, this study will provide insights into how to optimally implement PrEP within the current health care provision and will shape national and European guidelines with regard to the place of PrEP in HIV prevention strategies. ClinicalTrial EU Clinical Trial 2015-000054-37; https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2015-000054-37/BE (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6nacjSdmM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Irith De Baetselier
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Thijs Reyniers
- HIV and Sexual Health Unit, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christiana Nöstlinger
- HIV and Sexual Health Unit, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kristien Wouters
- HIV/Sexually Transmitted Infection Clinic, Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Katrien Fransen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Tania Crucitti
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Chris Kenyon
- HIV/Sexually Transmitted Infection Clinic, Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jozefien Buyze
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Céline Schurmans
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marie Laga
- HIV and Sexual Health Unit, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- HIV and Sexual Health Unit, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,See Authors' Contributions section for collaborators/group members,
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