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Bankere AW, Daba SG, Ami B, Gedefa LK, Lencha B. Loss to follow-up and its predictors among children living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy, southern Oromia, Ethiopia: a 5-year retrospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078370. [PMID: 39089715 PMCID: PMC11293378 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss to follow-up (LTFU) among paediatric patients living with HIV presents a significant challenge to the global scale-up of life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART). OBJECTIVES This study aims to estimate LTFU incidence and its determinants among children with HIV on ART in Shashemene town public health institutions, Oromia, Ethiopia. DESIGN A retrospective cohort study from 1 January 2015 to 30 December 2020. SETTING This study was conducted in Shashemene town, Oromia, Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS Medical records of 269 children receiving ART at health facilities in Shashemene town were included. METHODS Data from patients' medical records were collected using a standardised checklist. EpiData V.3.1 was employed for data entry, while Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) V.25 facilitated analysis. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used for estimation of survival time. To measure association, adjusted HRs (AHRs) with 95% CIs were calculated. Both bivariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were employed to identify predictors of LTFU. RESULTS Of the 269 children living with HIV included in the final analysis, 43 (16%) were lost to follow-up. The overall incidence rate of LTFU was 3.3 (95% CI 2.4 to 4.4) per 100 child-years of observation. Age less than 5 years (AHR 0.03, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.36), non-orphan status of the child (AHR 0.13, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.34), < 30 min distance to health facility (AHR 0.24, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.73), disclosed HIV status (AHR 0. 32, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.80), history of opportunistic infection (AHR 3.54, 95% CI 1.15 to 10.87) and low CD4 count (AHR 5.17, 95% CI 2.08 to 12.85) were significant predictors of LTFU. CONCLUSION The incidence rate of LTFU was lower compared with other studies in Ethiopia. This result indicated that age less than 5 years, non-orphans, low CD4, disclosed HIV status and distance from health facility were predictors of LTFU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assefa Washo Bankere
- Department of Public Health, Hawassa College of Health Science, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Sintayehu Gabisa Daba
- Department of Disease Prevention and Control, Oromia Regional Health Bureau, Bishoftu, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bonso Ami
- Department of Public Health, Madda Walabu University, Robe, Ethiopia
| | | | - Bikila Lencha
- Department of Public Health, Madda Walabu University, Robe, Ethiopia
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Zeleke S, Demis S, Eshetie Y, Kefale D, Tesfahun Y, Munye T, Kassaw A. Incidence and Predictors of Loss to Follow-Up Among Adults on Antiretroviral Therapy in South Gondar Governmental Hospitals, Ethiopia: Retrospective Cohort Study. J Multidiscip Healthc 2023; 16:1737-1748. [PMID: 37377665 PMCID: PMC10292207 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s414194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Approximately 38.4 million adult people worldwide live with HIV, of which the majority live in Africa. In Ethiopia increasing the quality of life to HIV patients and preventing HIV transmission are challenging. Even though test-and-treat strategy is applied for early enrollment to ART, poor retention and loss to follow-up are hindering the care. Objective This study examined the incidence and predictors of loss to follow-up among adult HIV patients on ART in South Gondar governmental hospitals, September 11, 2017-September 10, 2022. Methods A multi-facility-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted. Study subjects were assigned using simple random sampling methods by their medical record numbers. The data were entered into EPI data version 3.0.2 and exported to STATA version 17 for analysis. The Kaplan-Meier failure function was employed to determine the overall failure estimates. Cox proportional hazard model was tailored for both bi-variable and multivariable. Variables at p-value <0.05 with 95% CI were significantly associated with loss to follow-up. Results In this study, about 559 adult HIV survivors were included, and the response rate was 98%. The mean age and standard deviation (±SD) of study subjects were 36.6±9.3 years. The incidence rate of loss to follow-up was 6.7 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 5.6, 8.1). Educational status [AHR: 1.68 (95% CI: 1.04, 2.72)], substance use [AHR: 2.38 (95% CI: 1.50, 3.75)], and ART adherence [AHR: 3.33 (95% CI: 1.38, 8.08)] were significant determinants to loss to follow-up. Conclusion In conclusion, the study finding reported that the incidence of loss to follow-up was low. HIV patients who did not have formal education, substance users, and poor ART adherence were at greater hazard of being lost to follow-up. In order to mitigate the rate of loss to follow-up, it is recommended to strengthen the available intervention modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shegaw Zeleke
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Demis
- Department of Maternity and Neonatal Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Yeshiambaw Eshetie
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Demewoz Kefale
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Yohannes Tesfahun
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Tigabu Munye
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Kassaw
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
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Ahmed I, Demissie M, Worku A, Gugsa S, Berhane Y. Virologic outcomes of people living with human immunodeficiency virus who started antiretroviral treatment on the same-day of diagnosis in Ethiopia: A multicenter observational study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257059. [PMID: 34478438 PMCID: PMC8415611 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There have been tremendous achievements in scaling-up antiretroviral therapy (ART) for treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), following universal "test and treat" policy implementation in low- and middle-income countries. However, its effects on virologic outcomes is not yet well investigated. We compared low viral load status in people living with HIV between those who were initiated on ART on the same-day and after 7 days of being diagnosed with HIV infection. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of persons age ≥15 years-old who were newly diagnosed and started on ART between October 2016 and July 2018 at 11 public health facilities in northwest Ethiopia. Exposure was initiation of ART on the same-day of HIV diagnosis. The outcome was low viral load at 12-months following ART initiation. We used double-robust estimator using inverse-probability-weighted regression adjustment to compare the groups. RESULTS A total of 398 people who started ART on the same-day of HIV diagnosis and 479 people who started 7 days after the initial diagnosis were included in this study. By 12-months following ART initiation, 73.4% (292) in the same-day group vs 83.7% (401) in the >7 days group achieved low viral load (absolute difference = 10.3% (95% CI: 4.9%, 15.8%)). After adjusting for baseline and follow-up covariates, there was statistically significant difference in low viral load status (adjusted difference = 8.3% (95% CI: 3.5%, 13.0%)) between the same-day group and the >7 days group. CONCLUSIONS Achievement of low viral load by 12-months post-initiation of ART was not optimal among participants who started ART on the same-day of HIV diagnosis. Efforts should be made to reinforce treatment adherence while initiating same-day ART.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Meaza Demissie
- Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Salem Gugsa
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington Seattle, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Boeke CE, Khan S, Walsh FJ, Lejeune C, Hettema A, Spiegelman D, Okello V, Bärnighausen T. Longitudinal analysis of client appointment adherence under Universal Test and Treat strategy: A stepped-wedge trial. HIV Med 2021; 22:854-859. [PMID: 34293243 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13144] [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: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Universal Test and Treat (UTT) strategies are being adopted across sub-Saharan Africa based on clinical benefits to morbidity and mortality and to attain targets of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). Universal Test and Treat is expected to change the client population at clinics, due to more asymptomatic HIV clients initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART). We assessed the impact of UTT on client appointment adherence at 14 government-managed health facilities in Eswatini's public sector health system. METHODS We assessed the impact of UTT on client adherence to appointment schedules from 2014 to 2017 in a stepped-wedge trial. Repeated measures analysis was used to assess adherence to each scheduled appointment (primary definition: presenting for care within 7 days after the scheduled appointment), adjusting for time, age, sex, stage, marital status, ART status and facility. RESULTS Among 3354 clients (62.1% female; 57.4% < 35 years), a median (interquartile range) of 10 (6-15) appointments were scheduled during follow-up. In a multivariable-adjusted model, appointment adherence was significantly greater in clients who were female [odds ratio (OR) = 1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.25-1.52], older (e.g. 40 to < 50 years vs. < 20 years; OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.00-2.09), married (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.19-1.44), had lower WHO stage at study enrolment (1-2 vs. 3-4: OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.13-1.41), and were currently on ART (OR = 3.55, 95% CI: 2.62-4.82). However, UTT strategy was not significantly associated with client adherence to scheduled appointments (OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.72-1.45). CONCLUSIONS Despite transitioning to UTT, there was no change in visit adherence, a reassuring finding given the large volume of clients currently being initiated at earlier stages of HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shaukat Khan
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Till Bärnighausen
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Durban, South Africa
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Degavi G. Influence of Lost to Follow Up from Antiretroviral Therapy Among Retroviral Infected Patients at Tuberculosis Centers in Public Hospitals of Benishangul-Gumuz, Ethiopia. HIV AIDS-RESEARCH AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2021; 13:315-327. [PMID: 33790656 PMCID: PMC7997948 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s306257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Broadening access to healthcare (ART) antiretroviral therapy has led to a 19% reduction in the death rate of people infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. This study would also describe the status and deciding factors of ART in (TB) tuberculosis centers in public hospitals of Benishangul-Gumuz, Ethiopia, for (LTFU) lost follow-up among (RVI) retroviral infected patients. Methods Hospital-based, unrivalled analysis of the case management (3:1) design was conducted. A total of 752 study participants (563 controls and 189 cases) Picked by systematic random sampling methodology, and where reviewed their charts from TB Centers. Data were entered and cleaned using Epi data version 3.1.1 and then exported to SPSS version 22 for analysis. To analyze the statistical relationship between the outcome variable and independent variables, binary logistic regression was used. Relevance was declared at a p-value <0.05. Results A total of 1122 (25.3%) were LTFU. Among index cases with male cases, there were higher odds of lost to follow up (AOR= 1.68, 95% CI; 1.085, 2.609), 15-24 old age group have no formal education, civil servant were also having high comparatively. In index cases with identified parents, the risk of LTFU up had lower HIV status (AOR=0.5; 95% CI; 0.24, 0.997). Rest all variables showed low odds to LTFU. Conclusion A large number of patients enrolled in ARTwere missing from follow-up at TB centers, but unfortunately did not make the next appointment reported. The absence of prophylaxis was accepted as an independent determinant of LTFUfor ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish Degavi
- BuleHoraUniversity's Department of Nursing, College of Health and Medical Science, Bulehora, Hageremaryam, Ethiopia
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Moges NA, Adesina OA, Okunlola MA, Berhane Y. Barriers and Facilitators of Same-Day Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Among People Newly Diagnosed with HIV in Ethiopia: Qualitative Study Using the Transtheoretical Model of Behavioral Change. J Multidiscip Healthc 2020; 13:1801-1815. [PMID: 33293823 PMCID: PMC7719330 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s282116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose HIV test and treat approach is currently a strategy used as a part of the prevention and control program in Ethiopia. The strategy adopts initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) on the same-day as HIV diagnosis or in the next visit. However, there is little evidence on barriers and facilitators of same-day (ART) initiation in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate barriers and facilitators of same-day (ART) initiation in the northwest Ethiopia. Patients and Methods A qualitative study was conducted in East Gojjam Zone in northwest Ethiopia. Purposively selected HIV patients, healthcare workers, and treatment assistants participated in the qualitative study. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs). Coding was done via ATLAS.ti software thematically. The interviews and FGDs were conducted in Amharic (local language) and then transcribed verbatim and translated into English. Coding was done via ATLAS.ti software. The thematic analysis approach was employed using the constructs of the transtheoretical behavioral model (TTM) to show stages of change that newly HIV diagnosed experienced in the course of preparation for treatment initiation. Results A total of 19 patients, 12 treatment supporters, and 9 healthcare workers participated in the qualitative study. Shocking due to the test result, having no symptoms, mistrust of the test result, and seeking spiritual healing from holy water were the major barriers to start ART in the same-day of diagnosis or within the next visit. Conclusion During HIV diagnosis, more barriers were observed in the early stages, while treatment facilitators emerged in the later stages of TTM. The TTM model can be applied to characterize where participants were in the stages of change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurilign Abebe Moges
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.,Pan African University, Life and Earth Sciences Including Health and Agriculture Institute (PAULESI), University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olubukola Adeponle Adesina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Micheal A Okunlola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Department of Epidemiology, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Abebe Moges N, Olubukola A, Micheal O, Berhane Y. HIV patients retention and attrition in care and their determinants in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:439. [PMID: 32571232 PMCID: PMC7310275 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05168-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is paucity of evidence on the magnitude of HIV patients' retention and attrition in Ethiopia. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the pooled magnitude of HIV patient clinical retention and attrition and to identify factors associated with retention and attrition in Ethiopia. METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis were done among studies conducted in Ethiopia using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline. Both published and unpublished studies conducted from January 1, 2005 to June 6th, 2019 were included. Major databases and search engines such as Google Scholar, PUBMED, African Journals Online (AJOL) and unpublished sources were searched to retrieve relevant articles. Data were assessed for quality, heterogeneity and publication bias. Analysis was conducted using STATA version 14 software. RESULT From a total of 45 studies 546,250 study participants were included in this review. The pooled magnitude of retention in care among HIV patients was 70.65% (95% CI, 68.19, 73.11). The overall magnitude of loss to follow up 15.17% (95% CI, 11.86, 18.47), transfer out 11.17% (95% CI, 7.12, 15.21) and death rate were 6.75% (95% CI, 6.22, 7.27). Major determinants of attrition were being unmarried patient (OR 1.52, 95% CI: 1.15-2.01), non-disclosed HIV status (OR 6.36, 95% CI: 3.58-11.29), poor drug adherence (OR 6.60, 95% CI: 1.41-30.97), poor functional status (OR 2.11, 95% CI: 1.33-3.34), being underweight (OR 2.21, 95% CI: 1.45-3.39) and advanced clinical stage (OR 1.85, 95% CI: 1.36-2.51). Whereas absence of opportunistic infections (OR 0.52, 95% CI: 0.30-0.9), normal hemoglobin status (OR 0.29, 95% CI: 0.20-0.42) and non-substance use (OR 95% CI: 0.41, 0.17-0.98) were facilitators of HIV patient retention in clinical care. CONCLUSION The level of retention to the care among HIV patients was low in Ethiopia. Socio-economic, clinical, nutritional and behavioral, intervention is necessary to achieve adequate patient retention in clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurilign Abebe Moges
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
- Pan African University, Life and Earth Sciences Including Health and Agriculture Institute (PAULESI), University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adesina Olubukola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Okunlola Micheal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Department of Epidemiology, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Balogun M, Meloni ST, Igwilo UU, Roberts A, Okafor I, Sekoni A, Ogunsola F, Kanki PJ, Akanmu S. Status of HIV-infected patients classified as lost to follow up from a large antiretroviral program in southwest Nigeria. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219903. [PMID: 31344057 PMCID: PMC6657856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Loss to follow-up (LTFU) is a term used to classify patients no longer being seen in a clinical care program, including HIV treatment programs. It is unclear if these patients have transferred their care services elsewhere, died, or if there are other reasons for their LTFU. To better understand the status of patients meeting the criteria of LTFU, we traced a sample of HIV-infected patients that were LTFU from the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) antiretroviral program. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of HIV-infected adult patients who enrolled for care between 2010 and 2014 at LUTH and were considered LTFU. Patients with locator information were traced using phone calls. Face-to-face interviews were used to collect data from successfully traced and consenting participants. Predictors of LTFU from LUTH, disengagement from care and willingness to re-engage in care in LUTH were assessed. Results Of 6108 registered patients, 3397 (56%) were LTFU and being unmarried was a predictor of being LTFU from LUTH. Of 425 patients that were traced, 355 (84%) were alive and 70 (16%) were dead. Two hundred and sixty-eight patients consented to interviews; 96 (35.8%) of these had transferred to another clinic for care while 172 (64.2%) were disengaged from care. More than half (149/268; 55.6%) were not on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Some of the primary reasons for LTFU were; long distance to clinic (56%) and feeling healthy (6.7%). Predictor of disengagement from care within the interviewed cohort was not having started ART. The predictors of willingness to re-engage in care included, not having started ART, male sex and longer duration in HIV care prior to LTFU. Conclusion Most of the interviewed cohort that was LTFU were truly disengaged from care and not on ART. Interventions are required to address processes of re-engagement of patients that are LTFU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mobolanle Balogun
- Department of Community Health and Primary Care, College of Medicine of the University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
- * E-mail:
| | - Seema Thakore Meloni
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | | | - Alero Roberts
- Department of Community Health and Primary Care, College of Medicine of the University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Ifeoma Okafor
- Department of Community Health and Primary Care, College of Medicine of the University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Adekemi Sekoni
- Department of Community Health and Primary Care, College of Medicine of the University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Folasade Ogunsola
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine of the University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Phyllis J. Kanki
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Sulaimon Akanmu
- Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, College of Medicine of the University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
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Seifu W, Ali W, Meresa B. Predictors of loss to follow up among adult clients attending antiretroviral treatment at Karamara general hospital, Jigjiga town, Eastern Ethiopia, 2015: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:280. [PMID: 29914400 PMCID: PMC6006768 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3188-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Retention in care and adherence to the treatment is very important for the success of the program while access for treatment is being scaled up. Without more precise data about the rate of loss to follow up as well the characteristics of those who disengage from the treatment appropriate interventions to increase ART adherence cannot be designed and implemented. Therefore the aim of this study was to determine incidence and predictors of loss to follow up among adult ART clients attending in Karamara Hospital, Jigjiga town, Eastern Ethiopia, 2015. Methods An institutional based retrospective cohort study were undertaken among 1439 adult people living with HIV/AIDS and attending ART clinic between September 1, 2007 and September 1, 2014 at Karamara Hospital was undertaken. Loss to follow up was defined as not taking an ART refill for a period of 90 days or longer from the last attendance for refill and not yet classified as ‘dead’ or ‘transferred-out’. A Kaplan-Meier model was used to estimate rate of time to loss to follow up and Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to identify predictors of loss to follow up among ART clients. Result Of 1439 patients, 830(58.0%) were females in their sex. The mean age of the cohort was 33.5 years with a standard deviation of 9.33. Around 213 (14.8%) patients were defined as LTFU. The incidence rate of loss to follow up in the cohort was 26.6% (95% CI; 18.1–29.6) per 100 person months. Patients with male sex [HR: 2.1CI;(1.3–3.4)], patients whose next appointment weren’t recorded [HR: 1.2, 95% CI; (1.12–1.36)] and patients who did not disclose their status to any one [HR: 2.8, 95% CI; (2.22–5.23)] were significantly associated with LTFU in the cox proportional model. Conclusion Overall, these data suggested that LTFU in this study was high. The ART patients’ next appointment should be documented very well and as well the clients should be advised to adhere with treatment program as per the schedule. Defaulter tracing mechanism should be operational and strengthen in the health facility. Effective control measures should be designed for at-risk population such as male patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wubareg Seifu
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Public Health department, Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Jigjiga University, P.O. Box:1020, Jigjiga, Ethiopia.
| | - Walid Ali
- Department of Radiology, Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Beyene Meresa
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
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10
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Maughan-Brown B, Smith P, Kuo C, Harrison A, Lurie MN, Bekker LG, Galárraga O. Readiness for Antiretroviral Therapy: Implications for Linking HIV-Infected Individuals to Care and Treatment. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:691-700. [PMID: 28752353 PMCID: PMC5785568 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1834-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Using survey data collected immediately after referral for ART (N = 87), this study examined ART-readiness among individuals (18 years and older) attending a mobile health clinic in South Africa. Most participants reported being very ready (84%) and motivated (85%) to start ART, but only 72% were assessed as ready for ART on all measures. Treatment readiness was lower among individuals who did not think they would test HIV-positive (aOR 0.26, p < 0.05) and among individuals who reported being in good health (aOR 0.44, p < 0.1). In contrast, higher readiness was associated with better ART knowledge (aOR 4.31, p < 0.05) and knowing someone who had experienced positive health effects from ART (aOR 2.65, p < 0.05). Results indicate that post-test counselling will need to be designed to deal with surprise at HIV diagnosis, and that health messaging needs to be carefully crafted to support uptake of ART among HIV-positive but healthy individuals. Further research is needed on effective post-test counselling approaches and effective framing of health messaging to increase awareness of the multiple positive benefits of early ART initiation and corresponding readiness to engage in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Maughan-Brown
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Private Bag Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7701, South Africa.
| | - Philip Smith
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Caroline Kuo
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Abigail Harrison
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Mark N Lurie
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice (HSPP), Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
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11
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Tsadik M, Berhane Y, Worku A, Terefe W. The magnitude of, and factors associated with, loss to follow-up among patients treated for sexually transmitted infections: a multilevel analysis. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e016864. [PMID: 28716795 PMCID: PMC5726144 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The loss to follow-up (LTFU) among patients attending care for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Sub-Saharan Africa is a major barrier to achieving the goals of the STI prevention and control programme. The objective of this study was to investigate individual- and facility-level factors associated with LTFU among patients treated for STIs in Ethiopia. METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted among patients attending care for STIs in selected facilities from January to June 2015 in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. LTFU was ascertained if a patient did not present in person to the same facility within 7 days of the initial contact. Multilevel logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with LTFU. RESULTS Out of 1082 patients, 59.80% (647) were LTFU. The individual-level factors associated with LTFU included having multiple partners (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.89, 95% CI 1.74 to 4.80), being male (AOR 2.23, 95% CI 1.63 to 3.04), having poor knowledge about the means of STI transmission (AOR 2.08, 95% CI 1.53 to 2.82), having college level education (AOR 0.38, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.65), and low perceived stigma (AOR 0.60, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.82). High patient flow (AOR 3.06, 95% CI 1.30 to 7.18) and medium health index score (AOR 2.80, 95% CI 1.28 to 6.13) were facility-level factors associated with LTFU. CONCLUSIONS Improving patient retention in STI follow-up care requires focused interventions targeting those who are more likely to be LTFU, particularly patients with multiple partners, male index cases and patients attending facilities with high patient flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mache Tsadik
- College of Health Science, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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12
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Mecha JO, Kubo EN, Nganga LW, Muiruri PN, Njagi LN, Mutisya IN, Odionyi JJ, Ilovi SC, Wambui M, Githu C, Ngethe R, Obimbo EM, Ngumi ZW. Trends in clinical characteristics and outcomes of Pre-ART care at a large HIV clinic in Nairobi, Kenya: a retrospective cohort study. AIDS Res Ther 2016; 13:38. [PMID: 27895697 PMCID: PMC5109784 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-016-0122-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The success of antiretroviral therapy in resource-scarce settings is an illustration that complex healthcare interventions can be successfully delivered even in fragile health systems. Documenting the success factors in the scale-up of HIV care and treatment in resource constrained settings will enable health systems to prepare for changing population health needs. This study describes changing demographic and clinical characteristics of adult pre-ART cohorts, and identifies predictors of pre-ART attrition at a large urban HIV clinic in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of data on HIV infected adults (≥15 years) enrolling in pre-ART care between January 2004 and September 2015. Attrition (loss to program) was defined as those who died or were lost to follow-up (having no contact with the facility for at least 6 months). We used Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to determine time to event for the different modes of transition, and Cox proportional hazards models to determine predictors of pre-ART attrition. Results Over the 12 years of observation, there were increases in the proportions of young people (age 15 to 24 years); and patients presenting with early disease (by WHO clinical stage and higher median CD4 cell counts), p = 0.0001 for trend. Independent predictors of attrition included: aHR (95% CI): male gender 1.98 (1.69–2.33), p = 0.0001; age 20–24 years 1.80 (1.37–2.37), p = 0.0001), or 25–34 years 1.22 (1.01–1.47), p = 0.0364; marital status single 1.55 (1.29–1.86), p = 0.0001) or divorced 1.41(1.02–1.95), p = 0.0370; urban residency 1.83 (1.40–2.38), p = 0.0001; CD4 count of 0–100 cells/µl 1.63 (1.003–2.658), p = 0.0486 or CD4 count >500 cells/µl 2.14(1.46–3.14), p = 0.0001. Conclusions In order to optimize the impact of HIV prevention, care and treatment in resource scarce settings, there is an urgent need to implement prevention and treatment interventions targeting young people and patients entering care with severe immunosuppression (CD4 cell counts <100 cells/µl). Additionally, care and treatment programmes should strengthen inter-facility referrals and linkages to improve care coordination and prevent leakages in the HIV care continuum.
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13
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Takah NF, Awungafac G, Aminde LN, Ali I, Ndasi J, Njukeng P. Delayed entry into HIV care after diagnosis in two specialized care and treatment centres in Cameroon: the influence of CD4 count and WHO staging. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:529. [PMID: 27390926 PMCID: PMC4939053 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3258-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delayed entry into HIV care has complicated the challenges faced in sub-Saharan Africa due to the high HIV burden. A clear knowledge of the factors affecting delayed entry will be essential in directing interventions towards reducing delayed entry into HIV care. There exist very limited data on delayed entry in Cameroon despite its relevance; hence this study was conducted to determine the rate of delayed entry and its associated factors in HIV programmes in Cameroon. METHODS Data used for this study was routine data obtained from the files of HIV patients who were diagnosed between January 1, 2015 and June 30, 2015 at Limbe and Buea regional hospital HIV centers in the South West region of Cameroon. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20. RESULTS Of the 223 patients included in the study, nearly one-quarter of patients (22.4 %) delayed to enter HIV care within 3 months. Those who delayed to enter care were less likely to present at first diagnosis (using HIV rapid test) with symptoms such as fever > 1 month (5 % versus 30 %, p = 0.01) and weight loss > 10 % (13 % versus 48 %, p < 0.001). Alcohol consumption, WHO stage and CD4 count levels were also associated with delayed entry in bivariate analysis. In multivariate analysis only CD4 count greater than 500cells/μl and WHO stages I and II were independently associated with delayed entry into HIV care within 3 months. CONCLUSION In the South West region of Cameroon, approximately 1 out of 4 patients delay to enter HIV care. This high proportion of patients who delay to enter care correlates to the findings recorded by other studies in sub Saharan Africa. Interventions tackling delayed entry into HIV care might need to be favorably directed towards patients that have high CD4 counts and are at very early WHO clinical stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah F Takah
- Global Health Systems Solutions, Limbe, Cameroon. .,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon. .,Clinical Research Education, Networking and Consultancy, Douala, Cameroon.
| | - George Awungafac
- Global Health Systems Solutions, Limbe, Cameroon.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Leopold N Aminde
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon.,Sub divisional Hospital Nguti, Nguti, South West Region, Cameroon.,Clinical Research Education, Networking and Consultancy, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Innocent Ali
- Global Health Systems Solutions, Limbe, Cameroon.,Virology Laboratory, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | | | - Patrick Njukeng
- Global Health Systems Solutions, Limbe, Cameroon.,Virology Laboratory, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
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14
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Ng'ambi WF, Ade S, Harries AD, Midiani D, Owiti P, Takarinda KC, Gugsa S, Phiri S. Follow-up and programmatic outcomes of HIV-exposed infants registered in a large HIV centre in Lilongwe, Malawi: 2012-2014. Trop Med Int Health 2016; 21:995-1002. [PMID: 27197651 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess follow-up and programmatic outcomes of HIV-exposed infants at Martin Preuss Centre, Lilongwe, from 2012 to 2014. METHODS Retrospective cohort study using routinely collected HIV-exposed infant data. Data were analysed using frequencies and percentages in Stata v.13. RESULTS Of 1035 HIV-exposed infants registered 2012-2014, 79% were available to be tested for HIV and 76% were HIV-tested either with DNA-PCR or rapid HIV test serology by 24 months of age. Sixty-five infants were found to be HIV-positive and 43% were started on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at different ages from 6 weeks to 24 months. Overall, 48% of HIV-exposed infants were declared lost-to-follow-up in the database. Of these, 69% were listed for tracing; of these, 78% were confirmed as lost-to-follow-up through patient charts; of these, 51% were traced; and of these, 62% were truly not in care, the remainder being wrongly classified. Commonest reasons for being truly not in care were mother/guardian unavailability to bring infants to Martin Preuss Centre, forgetting clinic appointments and transport expenses. Of these 86 patients, 36% were successfully brought back to care and 64% remained lost-to-follow-up. CONCLUSION Loss to follow-up remains a huge challenge in the care of HIV-exposed infants. Active tracing facilitates the return of some of these infants to care. However, programmatic data documentation must be urgently improved to better follow-up and link HIV-positive children to ART.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Serge Ade
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France.,National Tuberculosis Programme, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Anthony D Harries
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Philip Owiti
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Kudakwashe C Takarinda
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France.,AIDS and TB Department, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Salem Gugsa
- The Lighthouse Trust, Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe, Malawi.,International Training and Education Center for Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sam Phiri
- The Lighthouse Trust, Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe, Malawi
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15
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Tiruneh YM, Galárraga O, Genberg B, Wilson IB. Retention in Care among HIV-Infected Adults in Ethiopia, 2005- 2011: A Mixed-Methods Study. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0156619. [PMID: 27272890 PMCID: PMC4896473 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0156619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2015] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poor retention in HIV care challenges the success of antiretroviral therapy (ART). This study assessed how well patients stay in care and explored factors associated with retention in the context of an initial ART rollout in Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods We conducted a mixed-methods study at a teaching hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A cohort of 385 patients was followed for a median of 4.6 years from ART initiation to lost-to-follow-up (LTFU—missing appointments for more than three months after last scheduled visit or administrative censoring). We used Kaplan-Meier plots to describe LTFU over time and Cox-regression models to identify factors associated with being LTFU. We held six focus group discussions, each with 6–11 patients enrolled in care; we analyzed data inductively informed by grounded theory. Results Patients in the cohort were predominantly female (64%) and the median age was 34 years. Thirty percent were LTFU by study’s end; the median time to LTFU was 1,675 days. Higher risk of LTFU was associated with baseline CD4 counts <100 and >200 cells/μL (HR = 1.62; 95% CI:1.03–2.55; and HR = 2.06; 95% CI:1.15–3.70, respectively), compared with patients with baseline CD4 counts of 100–200 cells/μL. Bedridden participants at ART initiation (HR = 2.05; 95% CIs [1.11–3.80]) and those with no or only primary education (HR = 1.50; 95% CIs [1.00–2.24]) were more likely to be LTFU. Our qualitative data revealed that fear of stigma, care dissatisfaction, use of holy water, and economic constraints discouraged retention in care. Social support and restored health and functional ability motivated retention. Conclusion Complex socio-cultural, economic, and health-system factors inhibit optimum patient retention. Better tracking, enhanced social support, and regular adherence counseling addressing stigma and alternative healing options are needed. Intervention strategies aimed at changing clinic routines and improving patient–provider communication could address many of the identified barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yordanos M. Tiruneh
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- * E-mail:
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Becky Genberg
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Ira B. Wilson
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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16
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Ojwang' VO, Penner J, Blat C, Agot K, Bukusi EA, Cohen CR. Loss to follow-up among youth accessing outpatient HIV care and treatment services in Kisumu, Kenya. AIDS Care 2015; 28:500-7. [PMID: 26565428 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2015.1110234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Youth are particularly vulnerable to acquiring HIV, yet reaching them with HIV prevention interventions and engaging and retaining those infected in care and treatment remains a challenge. We sought to determine the incidence rate of loss to follow-up (LTFU) and explore socio-demographic and clinical characteristics associated with LTFU among HIV-positive youth aged 15-21 years accessing outpatient care and treatment clinics in Kisumu, Kenya. Between July 2007 and September 2010, youth were enrolled into two different HIV care and treatment clinics, one youth specific and the other family oriented. An individual was defined as LTFU when absent from the HIV treatment clinic for ≥ 4 months regardless of their antiretroviral treatment status. The incidence rate of LTFU was calculated and Cox regression analysis used to identify factors associated with LTFU. A total of 924 youth (79% female) were enrolled, with a median age of 20 years (IQR 18-21). Over half, (529 (57%)), were documented as LTFU, of whom 139 (26%) were LTFU immediately after enrolment. The overall incidence rate of LTFU was 52.9 per 100 person-years (p-y). Factors associated with LTFU were pregnancy during the study period (crude HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.53-0.89); CD4 cell count >350 (adjusted hazard ratios (AHR) 0.59, 95% CI 0.39-0.90); not being on antiretroviral therapy (AHR 4.0, 95% CI 2.70-5.88); and non-disclosure of HIV infection status (AHR 1.43, 95% CI 1.10-1.89). The clinic of enrolment, age, marital status, employment status, WHO clinical disease stage and education level were not associated with LTFU. Interventions to identify and enrol youth into care earlier, support disclosure, and initiate ART earlier may improve retention of youth and need further investigation. Further research is also needed to explore the reasons for LTFU from care among HIV-infected youth and the true outcomes of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- V O Ojwang'
- a Family AIDS Care & Education Services (FACES) , Centre for Microbiology Research (CMR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - J Penner
- a Family AIDS Care & Education Services (FACES) , Centre for Microbiology Research (CMR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) , Nairobi , Kenya.,b Department of Family Practice , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , Canada
| | - C Blat
- a Family AIDS Care & Education Services (FACES) , Centre for Microbiology Research (CMR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) , Nairobi , Kenya.,c Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Reproductive Sciences , University of California , San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - K Agot
- d Impact Research and Development Organization , Kisumu , Kenya
| | - E A Bukusi
- a Family AIDS Care & Education Services (FACES) , Centre for Microbiology Research (CMR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - C R Cohen
- a Family AIDS Care & Education Services (FACES) , Centre for Microbiology Research (CMR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) , Nairobi , Kenya.,c Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Reproductive Sciences , University of California , San Francisco , CA , USA
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17
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Su S, Xiao Z, Lin Z, Qiu Y, Jin Y, Wang Z. Plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Psychiatry Res 2015; 229:365-9. [PMID: 26160204 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2015.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2014] [Revised: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
A number of studies have been done to investigate the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this study we aimed to test the relationship between plasma BDNF levels and PTSD. We solicited 65 subjects having recently experienced road traffic accidents (RTA) conforming to screening criteria. They were given follow-up examinations after one month, three months, and six months. PTSD was diagnosed according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-R-TR, American Psychiatric Association, 2000) using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). All participants were divided into two groups: a group with PTSD and a group without PTSD. There were no significant differences in plasma BDNF levels between the two groups at either the 48h or six-month examination. Within the PTSD group, no significant differences were found in plasma BDNF levels between the two examinations. BDNF levels in those without PTSD showed a higher trend over time after trauma. Higher BDNF levels may be an important protective factor for the prevention of traumatized subjects from developing PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Su
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zeping Xiao
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Zhiguang Lin
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yongming Qiu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yichao Jin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai, PR China.
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18
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Shaweno T, Shaweno D. When are patients lost to follow-up in pre-antiretroviral therapy care? a retrospective assessment of patients in an Ethiopian rural hospital. Infect Dis Poverty 2015; 4:27. [PMID: 26034602 PMCID: PMC4450642 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-015-0056-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is concern about the increasing rates of loss to follow-up (LTFU) among pre-antiretroviral therapy (pre-ART) patients in Ethiopia. Little information is available regarding the time when pre-ART patients are lost to follow-up in the country. This study assessed the time when LTFU occurs as well as the associated factors among adults enrolled in pre-ART care in an Ethiopian rural hospital. Methods Data of all adult pre-ART patients enrolled at the Sheka Zonal Hospital between 2010 and 2013 were reviewed. Patients were considered lost to follow-up if they failed to keep scheduled appointments for more than 90 days. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess factors associated with time until LTFU. The Kaplan-Meier survival table was used to compare the LTFU experiences of patients, segregated by significant predictors. Results A total of 626 pre-ART patients were followed for 319.92 person-years of observation (PYOs) from enrolment to pre-ART outcomes, with an overall LTFU rate of 55.8 per 100 PYOs. A total of 178 (28.4%) pre-ART patients were lost to follow-up, 93% of which occurred within the first six months. The median follow-up time was 6.13 months. The independent predictors included: not having been started on co-trimoxazole prophylaxis (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] = 1.77, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12–2.79), a baseline CD4 count of or above 350 cells/mm3 (AHR = 1.87, 95%CI, 1.02–3.45), and an undisclosed HIV status (AHR = 3.04, 95%CI, 2.07–4.45). Conclusion A significant proportion of pre-ART patients is lost to follow-up. Not having been started on co-trimoxazole prophylaxis, presenting to care with a baseline CD4 cell count ≥350 cells/mm3, and an undisclosed HIV status were significant predictors of LTFU among pre-ART patients. Thus, close monitoring and tracking of patients during this period is highly recommended. Those patients with identified risk factors deserve special attention. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40249-015-0056-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamrat Shaweno
- Public Health Emergency Response Epidemiologist, African Union, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Debebe Shaweno
- School of Public and Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
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19
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Minchella PA, Armitage AE, Darboe B, Jallow MW, Drakesmith H, Jaye A, Prentice AM, McDermid JM. Elevated Hepcidin Is Part of a Complex Relation That Links Mortality with Iron Homeostasis and Anemia in Men and Women with HIV Infection. J Nutr 2015; 145:1194-201. [PMID: 25904736 PMCID: PMC4442111 DOI: 10.3945/jn.114.203158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early and chronic inflammation is a hallmark of HIV infection, and inflammation is known to increase hepcidin expression. Consequently, hepcidin may be a key determinant of the iron homeostasis and anemia associated with poorer HIV prognoses. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to understand how hepcidin is related to anemia, iron homeostasis, and inflammation at HIV diagnosis and to investigate associations between hepcidin and all-cause mortality in HIV infection. METHODS In a retrospective cohort, baseline plasma hepcidin was measured by competitive enzyme immunoassay within 3 mo of HIV diagnosis in 196 antiretroviral-naive Gambians. Iron homeostasis [hemoglobin, plasma transferrin, ferritin, iron, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR)] and inflammation [α1-antichymotrypsin (ACT)] from the same plasma sample were available, as were absolute CD4 cell counts, age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and HIV type. RESULTS Anemia was common across the spectrum of immunosuppression [CD4 cell counts (prevalence of anemia): >500 cells/μL (68%), 200-500 cells/μL (73%), and <200 cells/μL (89%); P = 0.032] and in men (81%) and women (76%). Increasing hepcidin was associated with iron homeostasis biomarkers (higher ferritin and lower transferrin, hemoglobin, and sTfR), inflammation (higher ACT), and key health indicators (lower CD4 or BMI, advancing age, and male gender; P < 0.001 except for hemoglobin, P = 0.021). Elevated hepcidin was associated with greater all-cause mortality in a dose-dependent manner [intermediate vs. lowest tertile: unadjusted HR (95% CI), 1.95 (1.22, 3.10); upper vs. lowest tertile: 3.02 (1.91, 4.78)]. Principal components analysis identified 2 patterns composed of hepcidin-ferritin-transferrin, with or without ACT, and iron-sTfR-hemoglobin that may distinguish inflammation and erythropoiesis iron functions. CONCLUSIONS Elevated hepcidin is independently associated with greater mortality in men and women with HIV infection, and hepcidin is also part of a complex relation linking iron homeostasis, anemia, and HIV. Understanding the mechanisms and role of hepcidin modulation may further guide evidence-based interventions needed to counter detrimental iron homeostasis and anemia in HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew E Armitage
- Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Bakary Darboe
- Medical Research Council Unit (UK), Fajara, The Gambia
| | | | - Hal Drakesmith
- Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Assan Jaye
- Medical Research Council Unit (UK), Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Andrew M Prentice
- International Nutrition Group, Department of Nutrition and Public Health Intervention Unit, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Joann M McDermid
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY;
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20
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Melaku Z, Lamb MR, Wang C, Lulseged S, Gadisa T, Ahmed S, Habtamu Z, Alemu H, Assefa T, Abrams EJ. Characteristics and outcomes of adult Ethiopian patients enrolled in HIV care and treatment: a multi-clinic observational study. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:462. [PMID: 25934178 PMCID: PMC4455051 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-1776-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We describe trends in characteristics and outcomes among adults initiating HIV care and treatment in Ethiopia from 2006-2011. Methods We conducted a retrospective longitudinal analysis of HIV-positive adults (≥15 years) enrolling at 56 Ethiopian health facilities from 2006–2011. We investigated trends over time in the proportion enrolling through provider-initiated counseling and testing (PITC), baseline CD4+ cell counts and WHO stage. Additionally, we assessed outcomes (recorded death, loss to follow-up (LTF), transfer, and total attrition (recorded death plus LTF)) before and after ART initiation. Kaplan-Meier techniques estimated cumulative incidence of these outcomes through 36 months after ART initiation. Factors associated with LTF and death after ART initiation were estimated using Hazard Ratios accounting for within-clinic correlation. Results 93,418 adults enrolled into HIV care; 53,300 (57%) initiated ART. The proportion enrolled through PITC increased from 27.6% (2006–2007) to 44.8% (2010–2011) (p < .0001). Concurrently, median enrollment CD4+ cell count increased from 158 to 208 cells/mm3 (p < .0001), and patients initiating ART with advanced WHO stage decreased from 56.6% (stage III) and 15.0% (IV) in 2006–2007 to 47.6% (stage III) and 8.5% (IV) in 2010–2011. Median CD4+ cell count at ART initiation remained stable over time. 24% of patients were LTF before ART initiation. Among those initiating ART, attrition was 30% after 36 months, with most occurring within the first 6 months. Recorded death after ART initiation was 6.4% and 9.2% at 6 and 36 months, respectively, and decreased over time. Younger age, male gender, never being married, no formal education, low CD4+ cell count, and advanced WHO stage were associated with increased LTF. Recorded death was lower among younger adults, females, married individuals, those with higher CD4+ cell counts and lower WHO stage at ART initiation. Conclusions Over time, enrollment in HIV care through outpatient PITC increased and patients enrolled into HIV care at earlier disease stages across all HIV testing points. However, median CD4+ cell count at ART initiation remained steady. Pre- and post-ART attrition (particularly in the first 6 months) have remained major challenges in ensuring prompt ART initiation and retention on ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenebe Melaku
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, 13th floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Matthew R Lamb
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, 13th floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Chunhui Wang
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, 13th floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Sileshi Lulseged
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, 13th floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Tsigereda Gadisa
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, 13th floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Solomon Ahmed
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | | | | | - Tamrat Assefa
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, 13th floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Elaine J Abrams
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, 13th floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA. .,College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
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21
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Arnold KB, Hermos J, Anderson KB, Minasian L, Tangen CM, Probstfield JF, Cook ED. Retention of black and white participants in the selenium and vitamin E cancer prevention trial (SWOG-coordinated intergroup study S0000). Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014; 23:2895-905. [PMID: 25242051 PMCID: PMC4257858 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-14-0724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disproportionally low retention of minority populations can adversely affect the generalizability of clinical research trials. We determine the overall retention rates for White and Black participants from the Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial (SELECT) and explore participant and site characteristics associated with retention failure (study disengagement) for these groups. METHODS A secondary analysis of 28,118 White (age ≥55), and 4,322 Black (age ≥ 50) SELECT participants used multivariate Cox regression to estimate overall retention rates and to calculate HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Blacks had higher age-adjusted risk of disengagement than Whites (HR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.77-2.08). Among Black participants, those ages 50 to 54 were at three times the risk of disengagement than those ≥65 years of age (HR, 3.61; 95% CI, 2.41-5.41). Blacks age ≥65 had 1.6 times the risk of disengagement than Whites age ≥65 (HR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.38-1.87). By 6 years after randomization, 84% of Whites and 69% of Blacks remained engaged in the study. Current smoking status was an independent risk factor for study disengagement for both White and Black participants. For both groups, sites whose staffs missed SELECT training sessions or who received SELECT Retention and Adherence grants were associated with increased and decreased disengagement risks, respectively. CONCLUSIONS SELECT retention was disproportionately lower for Blacks than for Whites. IMPACT The observed difference in retention rates for Blacks and Whites and factors identified by race for study disengagement in SELECT may inform retention efforts for future long-term, cancer prevention trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn B. Arnold
- SWOG Statistical Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John Hermos
- VA Cooperative Studies Program Coordinating Center, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karen B. Anderson
- SWOG Data Management, Cancer Research And Biostatistics, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lori Minasian
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Catherine M. Tangen
- SWOG Statistical Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jeffrey F. Probstfield
- Clinical Trials Service Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elise D. Cook
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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22
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Westerlund E, Jerene D, Mulissa Z, Hallström I, Lindtjørn B. Pre-ART retention in care and prevalence of tuberculosis among HIV-infected children at a district hospital in southern Ethiopia. BMC Pediatr 2014; 14:250. [PMID: 25280967 PMCID: PMC4287195 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2431-14-250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Ethiopian epidemic is currently on the wane. However, the situation for infected children is in some ways lagging behind due to low treatment coverage and deficient prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Too few studies have examined HIV infected children presenting to care in low-income countries in general. Considering the presence of local variations in the nature of the epidemic a study in Ethiopia could be of special value for the continuing fight against HIV. The aim of this study is to describe the main characteristics of children with HIV presenting to care at a district hospital in a resource-limited area in southern Ethiopia. The aim was also to analyse factors affecting pre-ART loss to follow-up, time to ART-initiation and disease stage upon presentation. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study. The data analysed were collected in 2009 for the period January 2003 through December 2008 at Arba Minch Hospital and additional data on the ART-need in the region were obtained from official reports. RESULTS The pre-ART loss to follow-up rate was 29.7%. Older children (10-14 years) presented in a later stage of their disease than younger children (76.9% vs. 45.0% in 0-4 year olds, chi-square test, χ2 = 8.8, P = 0.01). Older girls presented later than boys (100.0% vs. 57.1%, Fisher's exact test, P = 0.02). Children aged 0-4 years were more likely to be lost to follow-up (40.0 vs. 21.8%, chi-square test, χ2 = 5.4, P = 0.02) and had a longer time to initiate ART (Cox regression analysis, HR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.25-0.97, P = 0.04, controlling for sex, place of residence, enrollment phase and WHO clinical stage upon presentation). Neither sex was overrepresented in the sample. Tuberculosis prevalence upon presentation and previous history of tubercolosis were 14.5% and 8% respectively. CONCLUSIONS The loss to follow-up is alarmingly high and children present too late. Further research is needed to explore specific causes and possible solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Degu Jerene
- />Department of Preventive Medicine, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- />Management Sciences for Health-HEAL TB Project, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zewdie Mulissa
- />Columbia University- International center for AIDS care and treatment program, Addis Ababa office, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Bernt Lindtjørn
- />Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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