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Thapa S, Ogunleye TT, Shrestha R, Joshi R, Hannes K. Increased Stigma, and Physical and Sexual Violence Against Men Who Have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis Analyzing Social and Structural Barriers to HIV Testing and Coping Behaviors. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2024:1-27. [PMID: 38456684 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2024.2320237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa, accessing HIV testing services is a significant challenge for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW). In this qualitative evidence synthesis, our aim is to understand social and structural barriers and how they hinder MSM's and TGW's access to HIV testing services in sub-Saharan African countries. We searched four selective databases (PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL complemented with Google Scholar) for qualitative studies, published in English between January 2005 and December 2023, generated 1507 articles, of which 22 were included. Thematic synthesis was conducted for data synthesis. This led to five barriers that hinder HIV test uptake among MSM and TGW, which included: non-availability of tailored HIV testing services, stigma, lack of trust among service providers, sexual and physical violence, and criminalization of same sex relationship. To navigate these social and structural barriers and cope with fears of discrimination and criminalization, MSM and TGW engaged into riskier behaviors, including avoiding HIV testing, non-disclosure, or relying on informal or alternative sources of HIV testing. Decriminalization of same-sex relationship and peer-led HIV testing services were noted to address structural barriers, including stigma and poor access, and subsequently increase the participation in HIV testing services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subash Thapa
- Rural Health Research Institute, Charles Sturt University, Orange, Australia
| | - Tadese Tewogbola Ogunleye
- Unit for Health Promotion, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Roman Shrestha
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ranjila Joshi
- Unit for Health Promotion, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Karin Hannes
- Research Group SoMeTHin'K (Social, Methodological and Theoretical Innovation/Kreative), Faculty of Social Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit, Leuven, Belgium
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2
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Fiorentino M, Yanwou N, Gravier-Dumonceau Mazelier R, Eubanks A, Roux P, Laurent C, Spire B. Sexual behaviours and risk with women in MSM in sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS 2024; 38:273-287. [PMID: 38300157 PMCID: PMC10842665 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003787] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), MSM - a high HIV prevalence group - experience strong social stigma and pressure to have female partners. Accordingly, they could constitute a bridging group for HIV transmission to cisgender women. We developed a multilevel summary of MSM sexual behaviors and risk with women in various SSA regions. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a mixed-method systematic review of data of sex with women in MSM in SSA. We performed meta-analyses on quantitative data (i.e. percent of recent sex and condomless sex with women) for each SSA region (when proportions reported in ≥4 studies). Pooled proportions were calculated using random-effects models. Qualitative data were analyzed using the three-step thematic synthesis methodology. The pooled proportion of MSM who had sex with women was 58% (33-83%) in East Africa (in the previous 3 months), and 27% (13-48%) in Southern Africa and 50% (95% CI 39-62%) in West Africa (in the previous 6 months); 23% (16-32%) of MSM in West Africa had condomless sex with a woman (during the most recent encounter). Approximately one quarter of MSM had recent multiple female partners. MSM reported having sex with women because of heteronormative pressure, erotic/romantic attraction, or financial needs leading to transactional sex. MSM may act as a bridging population to women in SSA, as they commonly practice sex with women and risky sexual behaviors with them. HIV programmes and community-based support for MSM should be adapted to this population to reduce this risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Fiorentino
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, Inserm, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM
| | - Nathan Yanwou
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, Inserm, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM
- ORS PACA, Observatoire régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Marseille
| | | | - August Eubanks
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, Inserm, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM
| | - Perrine Roux
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, Inserm, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM
| | | | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, Inserm, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l’Information Médicale, ISSPAM
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3
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Fu J, Chen X, Dai Z, Huang Y, Xiao W, Wang H, Si M, Wu Y, Zhang L, Jing S, Liu X, Yu F, Mi G, Su XY. HIV-related stigma, depression and suicidal ideation among HIV-positive MSM in China: a moderated mediation model. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2117. [PMID: 37891525 PMCID: PMC10612198 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17047-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the HIV epidemic among MSM in China continues, Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM) face various mental health difficulties, including suicide ideation, depression, and stigma. The current study aims to assess the mechanisms between HIV-related stigma, depression, and suicidal ideation among MSM in China. METHODS This national cross-sectional study was completed on the geosocial networking application (GSN) app, Blued, from December 2020 to March 2021. We used the HIV Stigma Scale and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D10) to measure HIV stigma and depression, respectively. Suicidal ideation was measured by the suicidal ideation-related item. Descriptive analyses, logistic regression, and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used for data analysis. RESULTS A total of 244 HIV-positive MSM were included in the analysis. The mediation model revealed that the direct pathway of perceived HIV-related stigma on suicidal ideation was significant (standardized pathway coefficient = 0.07), and the indirect pathway of perceived HIV-related stigma on suicidal ideation via depression was also significant (standardized pathway coefficient = 0.04). There was a partial mediating effect of depression in the association between perceived HIV-related stigma and suicidal ideation. CONCLUSIONS Our study found that both perceived HIV-related stigma and depression were associated with suicidal ideation among HIV-positive MSM in China, and that depression could serve as a mediator between HIV-related stigma and suicidal ideation. Targeted interventions regarding HIV-related stigma and depression should be taken into account to reduce suicidal ideation among HIV-positive MSM in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Fu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenwei Dai
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yiman Huang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Weijun Xiao
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mingyu Si
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yijin Wu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shu Jing
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Liu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Public Welfare, Beijing, China
| | | | - Xiao-You Su
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Poku OB, Eschliman EL, Entaile P, Rampa S, Mehta H, Tal D, Silvert L, Li T, Becker TD, Govindasamy D, Stockton MA, Adedimeji A, Ho-Foster A, Blank MB, Dangerfield DT, Yang LH, Murray SM. "It's Better If I Die Because Even in the Hospital, There is a Stigma, People Still Gossip": Gossip as a Culturally Shaped Labeling Process and Its Implications for HIV-Related Stigma in Botswana. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2535-2547. [PMID: 36646928 PMCID: PMC10350478 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-03980-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This study qualitatively explores HIV-related gossip as both a manifestation and driver of HIV-related stigma, which is a known barrier to HIV testing and treatment in Botswana. Data were elicited from 5 focus group discussions and 46 semi-structured in-depth interviews with individuals living with HIV and community members with undisclosed serostatus in Gaborone, Botswana in 2017 (n = 84). Directed content analysis using the 'What Matters Most' theoretical framework identified culturally salient manifestations of HIV-related stigma; simultaneous use of Modified Labeling Theory allowed interpretation and stepwise organization of how the social phenomenon of gossip leads to adverse HIV outcomes. Results indicated that HIV-related gossip can diminish community standing through culturally influenced mechanisms, in turn precipitating poor psychosocial well-being and worsened HIV-related outcomes. These harms may be offset by protective factors, such as appearing healthy, accepting one's HIV status, and community education about the harms of gossip.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ohemaa B Poku
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Evan L Eschliman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Shathani Rampa
- Department of Psychology, Queens College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Haitisha Mehta
- Department of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Danielle Tal
- Department of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lea Silvert
- Department of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tingyu Li
- Department of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Timothy D Becker
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Melissa A Stockton
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adebola Adedimeji
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | - Michael B Blank
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Lawrence H Yang
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sarah M Murray
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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5
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Alio AP, Khoudia A, Thiam MH, Talawa DA, Bamfonga G, Al Ansar A, Ndour CT, Ndoye O. They call us goor-jigeen: a qualitative exploration of the experiences of Senegalese Muslim men who have sex with men living with HIV. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2022; 24:1289-1301. [PMID: 35649425 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2022.2080273] [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: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men living with HIV in majority Muslim communities face discrimination based on multiple forms of stigma at socio-cultural and legislative levels. This study aimed to explore qualitatively the experiences of men who have sex with men living with HIV in Dakar, Senegal. In-depth individual interviews were conducted with 30 Senegalese men aged 18 to 55 years, who self-reported as same-sex practising, Muslim, and receiving HIV treatment at health centres in Dakar. Interview data were analysed using an ethnographic phenomenological approach to explore their life experiences. Primary themes included: the self-discovery process; the social, religious and health ramifications of being same-sex practising; and stigma. Within the theme of stigma issues described included shame, blame (of self and others), and violence resulting from being a man who has sex with other men and/or being HIV seropositive. Those with undetectable viral load reported how HIV related stigma and burden diminished as their health improved. Disclosure of being men who have sex with men and/or HIV status, whether voluntary or not, affected experiences of violence and/or isolation. Addressing stigma at healthcare institutions and improving access to HIV treatment can help mitigate the burden of stigma affecting such men. Interventions to address their physical and psychosocial wellbeing require the engagement of multiple stakeholders, including religious and political leaders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina P Alio
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Abdou Khoudia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Mamadou H Thiam
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Drusilla A Talawa
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Gradi Bamfonga
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Abdoulaye Al Ansar
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Cheikh T Ndour
- Institute for Research and Teaching of Psychopathology, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Omar Ndoye
- Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
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6
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Alessi EJ, Kahn S, Giwa S, Cheung S. 'Those tablets, they are finding an empty stomach': a qualitative investigation of HIV risk among sexual and gender minority migrants in Cape Town, South Africa. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2022; 27:800-816. [PMID: 32894689 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2020.1817342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACTObjectives: HIV prevalence among sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals in South Africa is among the highest in the world; however, SGM migrants, an especially vulnerable subgroup of both the SGM and migrant populations, have frequently been overlooked in the country's robust public health response. This qualitative study, guided by syndemics theory, explored the processes by which SGM migrants in South Africa are exposed to HIV risk and those that may reduce this risk.Design: We conducted 6 focus groups with a total of 30 SGM migrants living in Cape Town. Participants were men who have sex with men, women who have sex with women, and transgender women. Transcripts were analyzed using grounded theory.Results: Participants identified a number of interrelated factors (insecure immigration status, financial and housing instability, food insecurity, stigma and discrimination, and lack of social support) contributing to HIV risk. While some took PrEP or HIV medication, adherence could be affected by structural and psychosocial barriers.Conclusion: Interventions that respond to the syndemic impacts on HIV outcomes are needed to reduce disease burden among SGM migrants in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Alessi
- School of Social Work, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Sarilee Kahn
- School of School Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sulaimon Giwa
- School of Social Work, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Shannon Cheung
- School of Social Work, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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7
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Nardell MF, Adeoti O, Peters C, Kakuhikire B, Govathson-Mandimika C, Long L, Pascoe S, Tsai AC, Katz IT. Men missing from the HIV care continuum in sub-Saharan Africa: a meta-analysis and meta-synthesis. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25889. [PMID: 35324089 PMCID: PMC8944222 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Men are missing along the HIV care continuum. However, the estimated proportions of men in sub‐Saharan Africa meeting the UNAIDS 95‐95‐95 goals vary substantially between studies. We sought to estimate proportions of men meeting each of the 95‐95‐95 goals across studies in sub‐Saharan Africa, describe heterogeneity, and summarize qualitative evidence on factors influencing care engagement. Methods We systematically searched PubMed and Embase for peer‐reviewed articles published between 1 January 2014 and 16 October 2020. We included studies involving men ≥15 years old, with data from 2009 onward, reporting on at least one 95‐95‐95 goal in sub‐Saharan Africa. We estimated pooled proportions of men meeting these goals using DerSimonion‐Laird random effects models, stratifying by study population (e.g. studies focusing exclusively on men who have sex with men vs. studies that did not), facility setting (healthcare vs. community site), region (eastern/southern Africa vs. western/central Africa), outcome measurement (e.g. threshold for viral load suppression), median year of data collection (before vs. during or after 2017) and quality criteria. Data from qualitative studies exploring barriers to men's HIV care engagement were summarized using meta‐synthesis. Results and discussion We screened 14,896 studies and included 129 studies in the meta‐analysis, compiling data over the data collection period. Forty‐seven studies reported data on knowledge of serostatus, 43 studies reported on antiretroviral therapy use and 74 studies reported on viral suppression. Approximately half of men with HIV reported not knowing their status (0.49 [95% CI, 0.41–0.58; range, 0.09–0.97]) or not being on treatment (0.58 [95% CI, 0.51–0.65; range, 0.07–0.97]), while over three‐quarters of men achieved viral suppression on treatment (0.79 [95% CI, 0.77–0.81; range, 0.39–0.97]. Heterogeneity was high, with variation in estimates across study populations, settings and outcomes. The meta‐synthesis of 40 studies identified three primary domains in which men described risks associated with engagement in HIV care: perceived social norms, health system challenges and poverty. Conclusions Psychosocial and systems‐level interventions that change men's perceptions of social norms, improve trust in and accessibility of the health system, and address costs of accessing care are needed to better engage men, especially in HIV testing and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Nardell
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Oluwatomi Adeoti
- Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carson Peters
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Bernard Kakuhikire
- Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Caroline Govathson-Mandimika
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lawrence Long
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sophie Pascoe
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Alexander C Tsai
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ingrid T Katz
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Global Health Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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8
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Ndione AG, Procureur F, Senne JN, Cornaglia F, Gueye K, Ndour CT, Lépine A. Sexuality-Based Stigma and Access to Care: Intersecting Perspectives Between Health Care Providers and Men Who Have Sex With Men in HIV Care Centres in Senegal. Health Policy Plan 2022; 37:587-596. [PMID: 35147679 PMCID: PMC9113117 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czac010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Senegal face a challenging socio-legal context, marked by homophobia and the illegality of homosexuality. In addition, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence among MSM is 27.6%, 46 times greater than the one in the general population (0.5%). Nevertheless, access to healthcare by MSM may be hampered by stigmatizing attitudes from health facility staff (medical and non-medical). This article describes the health facility staff/MSM relationship and analyses its effects on access to healthcare by MSM. The data used were collected through a field survey based on observations and qualitative interviews conducted in 2019 and 2020 with 16 MSM, 1 non-governmental organization (NGO) staff and 9 healthcare providers in Dakar (the capital city) and Mbour (secondary city on the West Coast) hospitals. The data were subject to a thematic analysis assisted by the ATLAS software. The relationship between MSM and healthcare providers is ambiguous. On the one hand, healthcare providers are torn between their professional duty to treat MSM and the cost of being stigmatized by other colleagues. Therefore, they often limit their empathy with MSM within the hospital context. On the other hand, MSM, trusting in the confidentiality of healthcare providers, feel safe in the care pathway. However, we identify the following stigmatizing factors limiting access to care include (1) fear of meeting a relative, (2) difficult relationships with non-medical support staff (mainly security guards), (3) HIV status disclosure and (4) potential conflicts with other MSM. This study is unique as it includes non-medical staff in its respondents. It shows that hospitals are divided into several areas, based on the stigma perceived by MSM. It is important to map out MSM’s care trajectories and spaces and to identify all types of staff working within them, including non-medical staff, and enrol them in stigma reduction interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Khady Gueye
- Ministry of Health and Social Action of Senegal
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9
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Daniels J, Peters RPH, Medina-Marino A, Bongo C, Stephenson R. A skills-based sero-status HIV disclosure intervention for sexual minority men in South Africa: A protocol for intervention adaptation and pilot randomized controlled trial (Preprint). JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e36845. [PMID: 35576574 PMCID: PMC9152729 DOI: 10.2196/36845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) living with HIV have low antiretroviral treatment adherence in South Africa due to limited skills in managing disclosure and prevention behaviors with sexual and romantic partners. As a result, there is a high HIV transmission risk within HIV-discordant partnerships, but an existing intervention may address these outcomes, if adapted effectively. Healthy Relationships (HR) is a behavioral intervention that was originally delivered in groups and in person over 5 sessions to develop coping skills for managing HIV-related stress and sexually risky situations, enhance decision-making skills for HIV disclosure to partners, and establish and maintain safer sex practices with partners. HR effectively improves prevention behaviors but has yet to be tailored to a non-US context. Objective We aim to adapt HR into a new culturally grounded intervention entitled Speaking Out & Allying Relationships for GBMSM and then assess its feasibility in Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods The study will have 2 aims. For aim 1—adaptation—we will use a human-centered design approach. Initial intervention tailoring will involve integrating Undetectable=Untransmittable and pre-exposure prophylaxis education, developing intervention content for a videoconference format, and designing role-plays and movies for skill building based on preliminary data. Afterward, interviews and surveys will be administered to GBMSM to assess intervention preferences, and a focus group will be conducted with health care providers and information technology experts to assess the intervention’s design. Finally, a usability test will be performed to determine functionality and content understanding. Participants will be GBMSM living with HIV (n=15) who are in a relationship and health care providers and information technology (n=7) experts working in HIV care and programming with this population. For aim 2, we will examine the feasibility of the adapted intervention by using a pilot randomized control design. There will be 60 individuals per arm. Feasibility surveys and interviews will be conducted with the intervention arm, and behavioral and biomedical assessments for relationship and treatment adherence outcomes will be collected for both arms. All participants will be GBMSM living with HIV who are in a relationship with an HIV-negative or unknown status partner. Results Intervention adaptation began in August 2021. Initial tailoring and the refining of GBMSM intervention preferences were completed in December 2021. Usability and feasibility assessments are due to be completed by March 2022 and February 2024, respectively. Conclusions GBMSM need efficacious interventions that tackle partnership dynamics, HIV prevention, and treatment outcomes for antiretroviral treatment adherence and viral suppression in South Africa. Harnessing everyday technology use for social networking (eg, videoconferences), Undetectable=Untransmittable education, and pre-exposure prophylaxis to update an existing intervention for South African GBMSM has the potential to strengthen relationship communication about HIV treatment and prevention and, in turn, improve outcomes. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/36845
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Daniels
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Remco P H Peters
- Foundation for Professional Development, East London, South Africa
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andrew Medina-Marino
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, East London, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Cikizwa Bongo
- Foundation for Professional Development, East London, South Africa
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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10
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HIV Testing, Knowledge and Willingness to Use PrEP Among Partnered Men Who Have Sex With Men in South Africa and Namibia. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:1993-2004. [PMID: 33389373 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03129-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
There is strong evidence that gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in African countries experience high prevalence of HIV. However, missing from the literature is an understanding of the HIV risk behaviors and prevention needs of partnered GBMSM in African countries. The Together Tomorrow project sampled 440 partnered GBMSM (220 couples) in South Africa and Namibia. Prevalence of HIV was high at 42%, with 33% of men in sero-discordant relationships. Despite high levels of HIV testing in the past 6 months (65%), condom use with main and outside sex partners was low. Men reported low levels of willingness to use pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) (16%). HIV testing in the past 12 months and willingness to use PrEP were significantly associated with recent binge drinking and substance use. Men in sero-discordant relationships, those with sexual agreements and those who had experienced any form of IPV were all less likely to report that they had recently tested for HIV. There is a need to develop interventions that meet the unique needs of African partnered GBMSM and tackle stigma and discrimination as drivers of HIV risk in these settings.
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Daniels J, Struthers H, Soler J, Ricco E, Blackmon J, Teklehaimanot S, McIntyre J, Coates T. Building self-advocacy in HIV care: the use of role-play to examine healthcare access for HIV-positive MSM in rural South Africa. Glob Health Promot 2020; 28:32-40. [PMID: 33300432 DOI: 10.1177/1757975920974008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
There is high HIV prevalence and low rates of viral suppression for men who have sex with men (MSM) in South Africa, with few MSM-centered interventions to address these outcomes along the HIV treatment cascade. Participatory interventions may support community building among HIV-positive MSM through which they can share approaches of self-advocacy that are contextually grounded. We conducted a pilot study to assess the use of role-plays in influencing social isolation while also updating our understanding of MSM healthcare experiences in Mpumalanga, South Africa. The study was conducted with 21 MSM leaders who were HIV-positive. There were three groups of seven participants each who created and performed role-plays based on their healthcare experiences, with a focus group discussion (FGD) conducted afterward. Audio-recordings were transcribed, translated, and analyzed using a constant comparison approach. We found that MSM described role-play as cathartic and a future HIV care educational tool for other MSM, and that they outlined points of self-advocacy during HIV care in clinics. Our study suggests that future research should utilize role-play so to integrate contextual factors influencing HIV treatment, especially in high HIV prevalence settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Daniels
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, College of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Helen Struthers
- Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joshua Soler
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, College of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Emilio Ricco
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, College of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Joshaun Blackmon
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, College of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Senait Teklehaimanot
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, College of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - James McIntyre
- Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thomas Coates
- Center for World Health, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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King R, Sebyala Z, Ogwal M, Aluzimbi G, Apondi R, Reynolds S, Sullivan P, Hladik W. How men who have sex with men experience HIV health services in Kampala, Uganda. BMJ Glob Health 2020. [PMCID: PMC7245422 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2019-001901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa, men who have sex with men (MSM) are socially, largely hidden and face disproportionate risk for HIV infection. Attention to HIV epidemics among MSM in Uganda and elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa has been obscured by repressive governmental policies, criminalisation, stigma and the lack of basic epidemiological data describing these epidemics. In this paper, we aim to explore healthcare access, experiences with HIV prevention services and structural barriers to using healthcare services in order to inform the acceptability of a combination HIV prevention package of services for men who have sex with men in Uganda. We held focus group discussions (FGDs) with both MSM and healthcare providers in Kampala, Uganda, to explore access to services and to inform prevention and care. Participants were recruited through theoretical sampling with criteria based on ability to answer the research questions. Descriptive thematic coding was used to analyse the FGD data. We described MSM experiences, both negative and positive, as they engaged with health services. Our findings showed that socio-structural factors, mediated by psychological and relational factors impacted MSM engagement in care. The socio-structural factors such as stigma, homophobia and policy issues emerged strongly as did the mediating factors such as relations with specific health staff and a social support structure. A combination intervention addressing structural, social and psychological barriers could have an impact even in the precarious policy environment where this study was conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel King
- Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Zubayiri Sebyala
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Ogwal
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - George Aluzimbi
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rose Apondi
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Steven Reynolds
- Department of Medicare, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Division of Intramural Research, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wolfgang Hladik
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Daniels J, Struthers H, Maleke K, Lane T, McIntyre J, Coates T. 'My Tablets are on Top of the Fridge': The Roles of Relationship Desire and Medical Mistrust in ART Adherence for HIV-Positive MSM and Transgender Women Living in Rural South Africa. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2849-2858. [PMID: 31402416 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02628-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Given the high HIV prevalence for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women in South Africa, there is limited understanding of social determinants that influence antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence. Although universal testing and treatment (UTT) is available, ART adherence remains suboptimal. We conducted focus groups with MSM and transgender women in order to understand factors influencing their ART adherence in Mpumalanga, South Africa. All focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed and translated for analysis using a constant comparison approach, guided by the concept of Therapeutic Citizenship. We found there is medical mistrust of ART based on differing interpretations of HIV cure that may influence treatment adherence behaviors within social networks, and relationship desire had a significant influence on optimal ART adherence. Our findings suggest that clinics must provide interventions that integrate HIV disclosure and relationship skill-building to support optimal ART adherence for MSM and transgender women under UTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Daniels
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, 1731 E. 120th St, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Helen Struthers
- Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Tim Lane
- Equal International, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - James McIntyre
- Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tom Coates
- UCLA Center for World Health at the David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE African-American women are more likely than other women in the United States to experience poor HIV-related health; HIV stigma may contribute to these outcomes. This study assessed the relationship between HIV stigma and viral load, over time, among a sample of African-American women receiving treatment for HIV, and explored social support and depressive symptoms as mediators. DESIGN Secondary analysis of longitudinal data. METHODS Data came from a randomized trial of an intervention to reduce HIV stigma among African-American women in HIV care in Chicago, Illinois and Birmingham, Alabama. Sociodemographic and psychosocial data were collected at up to six study visits over 14 months. Viral loads were extracted from medical records during the study period. Generalized linear mixed effects models were used to estimate associations among overall, internalized, and enacted HIV stigma and viral load over time. Mediation analyses were used to estimate indirect effects via social support and depressive symptoms. RESULTS Data from 234 women were analyzed. Overall HIV stigma was significantly associated with subsequent viral load (adjusted β = 0.24, P = 0.005). Both between-subject (adjusted β = 0.74, P < 0.001) and within-subject (adjusted β = 0.34, P = 0.005) differences in enacted stigma were associated with viral load. Neither social support nor depressive symptoms were statistically significant mediators. CONCLUSION Ongoing experiences of HIV stigmatization may contribute to increased viral load among African-American women in primary HIV care. Interventions should aim to alleviate the consequences of stigma experienced by patients and prevent future stigmatization.
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Sandfort TGM, Dominguez K, Kayange N, Ogendo A, Panchia R, Chen YQ, Chege W, Cummings V, Guo X, Hamilton EL, Stirratt M, Eshleman SH. HIV testing and the HIV care continuum among sub-Saharan African men who have sex with men and transgender women screened for participation in HPTN 075. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217501. [PMID: 31150447 PMCID: PMC6544251 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Throughout the world, men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk for HIV infection compared to heterosexual men. Little is known about awareness of HIV infection and other gaps in the HIV care continuum for MSM, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This information is urgently needed to address the HIV epidemic in this population. This study assessed gaps in the HIV care continuum among persons screened for participation in a multi-country prospective study that evaluated the feasibility of recruiting and retaining MSM for HIV prevention studies in SSA (HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 075, conducted in four cities in Kenya, Malawi, and South Africa). Participants were recruited using site-specific strategies, that included outreach and informal networks. Transgender women (TW) were eligible to participate. During screening, 601 MSM and TW were tested for HIV infection and asked about prior HIV testing, HIV status, engagement in care, and HIV treatment. Viral load testing and retrospective antiretroviral (ARV) drug testing were performed for HIV-infected participants. Most participants (92.2%) had a prior HIV test; 42.1% were last tested >6 months earlier. HIV prevalence was 30.4%. HIV infection was associated with older age and identifying as female or transgender; 43.7% of the HIV-infected participants were newly diagnosed, especially younger persons and persons with a less recent HIV test. Almost a third of previously-diagnosed participants were not linked to care. Most participants (88.7%) in care were on ARV treatment (ART). Only about one-quarter of all HIV-infected participants were virally suppressed. These findings demonstrate substantial prevalence of undiagnosed HIV infection and sub-optimal HIV care engagement among MSM and TW in SSA. Increased HIV testing frequency and better linkage to care represent critical steps in preventing further HIV transmission in this population. Once in care, gaps in the HIV care continuum appear less critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theo G. M. Sandfort
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Karen Dominguez
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, UCT Medical School, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Noel Kayange
- Johns Hopkins Medical College, Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Arthur Ogendo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) CDC, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Ravindre Panchia
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Univ. of the Witwatersrand, Soweto HPTN CRS, Soweto, South Africa
| | - Ying Q. Chen
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle WA, United States of America
| | - Wairimu Chege
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda MD, United States of America
| | - Vanessa Cummings
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Xu Guo
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle WA, United States of America
| | - Erica L. Hamilton
- Science Facilitation Department, FHI, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Michael Stirratt
- National Institute of Mental Health, Division of AIDS Research, Bethesda MD, United States of America
| | - Susan H. Eshleman
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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Shangani S, Naanyu V, Operario D, Genberg B. Stigma and Healthcare-Seeking Practices of Men Who Have Sex with Men in Western Kenya: A Mixed-Methods Approach for Scale Validation. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2018; 32:477-486. [PMID: 30398953 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2018.0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa, men who have sex with men (MSM) experience high HIV prevalence, in part, due to stigma and discrimination creating barriers to engagement in prevention and care services. We examined the reliability and validity of measures of stigma and satisfaction with healthcare providers, as well as explored whether scores on the factors varied across sociodemographic variables among MSM in western Kenya. A mixed-methods design using a sequential triangulation approach was adopted, involving a survey of 89 MSM and 10 key informant interviews. Reliability and correlation analyses, exploratory factor analyses, t-tests, and ANOVAs (analyses of variances) were conducted to test the scale's psychometric properties and examine differences in mean scores by demographics. Thematic analysis with qualitative data was used to validate the meaning of scales and explore how stigma influences and relates to satisfaction with healthcare providers. Of 89 participants, 50% identified as homosexual, 52% had college degree, 45% were above 25 years, and 72% had ever been married. Three subscales measuring enacted stigma, internalized stigma, and mistrust of healthcare providers showed good reliability (α = 0.80, α = 0.90, and α = 0.90). Men who identified as homosexual reported higher mean scores of enacted stigma and distrust of healthcare providers compared to heterosexual/bisexual identified (p < 0.001). Qualitative data revealed perceptions that healthcare providers were not knowledgeable to handle MSM needs. Study provides preliminary evidence for the reliability and validity of measures of stigma and mistrust of healthcare providers in Kenya. Quantitative and qualitative findings highlight the need for interventions to reduce stigma and create a more inclusive health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Shangani
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Violet Naanyu
- Department of Behavioral Social Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Becky Genberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
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