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Hassan R, Thornton N, King H, Aufderheide G, Silberzahn B, Huettner S, Jennings JM, Evans KN, Fields EL. Perceptions of a community-based HIV/STI testing program among Black gay, bisexual, and other MSM in Baltimore: a qualitative analysis. AIDS Care 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38976576 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2372722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Black gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) are disproportionately affected by HIV and STIs. Safe Spaces 4 Sexual Health (SS4SH), a community-informed, status-neutral HIV/STI testing intervention combines online outreach via geo-social networking apps and social media with mobile van testing. During 2018-2019, we recruited 25 participants for interviews about their perceptions of SS4SH compared to clinic-based testing. Participants were aged 21-65 years (mean 35); 22 (88%) identified as Black/African American; 20 (80%) identified as gay; and 10 (40%) were living with HIV. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using a modified thematic constant comparative approach. Five themes emerged; two related to perceptions of online outreach materials (participants were drawn to eye-catching and to-the-point messages and desired more diversity and representation in messages), and three related to preference for the mobile van (participants found SS4SH provided more comfort, more privacy/confidentiality, and increased accessibility and efficiency). GBM is increasingly using geo-social networking apps to meet sexual partners, and tailored online outreach has the potential to reach historically underserved populations. SS4SH is a barrier-reducing strategy that may serve as an entry to a status-neutral approach to services and help reduce stigma and normalize accessing HIV services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashida Hassan
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Hope King
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Kimberly N Evans
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Zapata JP, Hirshfield S, Nelson K, Horvath K, John SA. Preferred Characteristics for mHealth Interventions Among Young Sexual Minoritized Men to Support HIV Testing and PrEP Decision-Making: Focus Group Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e51103. [PMID: 37713640 PMCID: PMC10616747 DOI: 10.2196/51103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological trends in the United States have shown an increase in HIV cases among young sexual minoritized men. Using mobile health (mHealth), which refers to health services and information delivered or enhanced through the internet and related technologies, is a crucial strategy to address HIV disparities. However, despite its potential, the practical implementation of mHealth remains limited. Additionally, it is important to consider that young individuals may become accustomed to, distracted from, or lose interest in these apps, highlighting the need for regular updates and monitoring of relevant content. OBJECTIVE In this study, we sought to highlight the voices of young sexual minoritized men aged 17-24 years and explored preferred mHealth intervention characteristics and willingness to adopt these technologies among a diverse, nationwide sample of young sexual minoritized men. METHODS From April to September 2020, we recruited participants through web-based platforms such as social media and geosocial networking apps for men. These individuals were invited to participate in synchronous web-based focus group discussions centered around topics pertaining to HIV testing and prevention and their preferences for mHealth technologies. RESULTS A total of 41 young sexual minoritized men, aged between 17 and 24 years, participated in 9 focus group discussions spanning April to September 2020, with 3-7 participants in each group. The findings shed light on three key insights regarding young sexual minoritized men's preferences: (1) the need for personalized and representative content, (2) a preference for mobile and web-based simulation of prevention scenarios, and (3) a preference for digital software with individually tailored content. As expected, preference for mHealth apps was high, which supports the potential and need to develop or adapt interventions that use smartphones as a platform for engaging young sexual minoritized men in HIV prevention. This study expands on previous research in multiple meaningful ways, delving into the use and perceptions of mHealth information amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This study also highlighted the importance of streamlined access to health care providers, especially in light of the barriers faced by young people during the COVID-19 pandemic. In terms of presentation and navigation, participants favored a user-friendly design that was easy to use and appropriate for their age, which was effectively addressed through the implementation of web-based simulations. CONCLUSIONS Ultimately, this study provides valuable insight into the preferences of young sexual minoritized men when it comes to mHealth interventions and highlights the need for further research in order to develop effective and tailored HIV prevention tools. A future direction for researchers is to evaluate how best to address participants' desire for personalized content within mHealth apps. Additionally, as technology rapidly evolves, there is a need to re-assess the effectiveness of web-based simulations, particularly those that are used in HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Zapata
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, United States
| | - Kimberly Nelson
- Department of Medicine, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Keith Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Steven A John
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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3
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Rocha GM, Cândido RCF, de Carvalho NP, Carvalho EGA, Costa AAM, Machado IV, da Cruz Pimenta MP, de Paula Júnior JA, Guimarães MDC, de Pádua CAM. Strategies to increase HIV testing among men who have sex with men and transgender women: an integrative review. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:240. [PMID: 37072705 PMCID: PMC10111644 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08124-z] [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: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) are disproportionately affected by HIV, with much higher incidence and prevalence rates than in the general population in different countries. There are several barriers to testing among MSM and TGW, such as low risk perception, anticipation of HIV-related stigma, discrimination of sexual orientation, in addition to difficulties related to care and access to health services. Therefore, analyzing the available evidence of the effectiveness of strategies for scaling up HIV testing among key populations is essential to point out potential knowledge gaps which may need to be addressed and develop public health policies to promote testing and early diagnosis of HIV infection. METHODS An integrative review was carried out to evaluate strategies for scaling up HIV testing in these populations. Search strategy was performed on eight electronic databases, without language restriction. We included clinical trials, quasi-experimental studies, and non-randomized studies. Study selection and data extraction were both performed independently by pairs and disagreements were solved by a third revisor. The screening of the studies was carried out through the selection of titles/abstracts and the reading of the full texts of the pre-selected studies based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Data extraction was performed using a structured form. RESULTS Thirty-seven publications referring to 35 studies were included, mostly being carried out in the United States of America and Australia. No studies were found evaluating disaggregated data on TGW. The studies were grouped into four types of intervention strategies: self-test distribution system (n = 10), organization of health services (n = 9), peer education (n = 6), and social marketing campaign (n = 10). Strategies that focused on the first three groups, combined or not, were more effective in increasing HIV testing among MSM. CONCLUSIONS Considering the diversity of interventions and the methodological heterogeneity of the included studies, strategies especially involving self-test distribution systems, associated with new information and communication technologies, should be evaluated in different communities and social contexts. Research evaluating specific studies on TGW population is still needed.
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Sharma A, Gandhi M, Sallabank G, Merrill L, Stephenson R. Perceptions and Experiences of Returning Self-collected Specimens for HIV, Bacterial STI and Potential PrEP Adherence Testing among Sexual Minority Men in the United States. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:1091-1105. [PMID: 36094639 PMCID: PMC9466335 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03846-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Few studies among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) have examined facilitators and barriers to self-collecting specimens for extragenital STI screening, and none have evaluated attitudes towards self-collecting hair samples that can be utilized for PrEP drug level testing to assess adherence. To address this gap, we interviewed 25 sexually active GBMSM who were offered a choice to self-collect and return finger-stick blood samples (for actual HIV testing), pharyngeal swabs, rectal swabs and urine specimens (for actual gonorrhea and chlamydia testing), and hair samples (to visually determine their adequacy for PrEP drug level testing): 11 who returned all, 4 who returned some, and 10 who did not return any. Participants found self-collecting finger-stick blood samples and rectal swabs more challenging than other specimens. Frequently discussed facilitators of return included an opportunity to confirm one's HIV or STI status, limited access to a healthcare provider and a desire to advance research focusing on home-based testing. Commonly cited barriers to return included low self-efficacy pertaining to self-collection and apprehension around the possibility of delay or loss of specimens during transit. Offering additional support such as real-time video conferencing may prove helpful in future field-based research with GBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Sharma
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, 400 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, 400 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Monica Gandhi
- Division of HIV, Infectious Disease, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA
| | - Gregory Sallabank
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, 400 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Leland Merrill
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, 400 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, 400 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, University of Michigan School of Nursing, 400 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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Rodriguez CA, Mitchell JW. Use of Stated Preference Methods in HIV Treatment and Prevention Research in the United States: A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2328-2359. [PMID: 36809490 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03962-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Stated preference (SP) methods are increasingly being applied to HIV-related research and continuously provide researchers with health utility scores of select healthcare products or services that populations consider important. Following PRISMA guidelines, we sought to understand how SP methods have been applied in HIV-related research. We conducted a systematic review to identify studies meeting the following criteria: SP method is clearly stated, conducted in the United States, was published between 01/01/2012 and 02/12/2022, and included adults aged 18 and over. Study design and SP method application were also examined. We identified six SP methods (e.g., Conjoint Analysis, Discrete Choice Experiment) across 18 studies, which were categorized into one of two groups: HIV prevention and HIV treatment-care. Categories of attributes used in SP methods largely focused on: administration, physical/health effects, financial, location, access, and external influences. SP methods are innovative tools capable of informing researchers on what populations consider most beneficial when deciding on treatment, care, or prevention options for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christofer A Rodriguez
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th St, AHC-5 Ste. 405, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
| | - Jason W Mitchell
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th St, AHC-5 Ste. 405, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
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Willingness to Participate in and Preferences for Studies of mHealth HIV Prevention Interventions: Cross-Sectional Study Among Sexual and Gender Minority Groups in the Southern United States. AIDS Behav 2023:10.1007/s10461-023-04005-3. [PMID: 36738343 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04005-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
A number of mobile HIV prevention interventions have been developed to increase uptake of HIV prevention services such as HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Most of these interventions have been tested among urban populations. However, sexual and gender minority (SGM) groups in rural areas might also benefit from mobile HIV prevention interventions. These groups have heightened experiences of stigma and discrimination and have limited access to culturally competent healthcare. We conducted a survey of SGM participants in the southern United States to assess willingness to use the common features of mobile HIV prevention interventions and to participate in research studies of these interventions and to compare the results between rural and non-rural respondents. We found few differences in willingness to use common features of mobile HIV prevention interventions based on rurality and high levels of cellular connectivity across participants. Based on these results, rural residence is not a barrier to using mobile HIV prevention interventions.
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HIV Testing Strategies, Types of Tests, and Uptake by Men Who have Sex with Men and Transgender Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:678-707. [PMID: 35984608 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03803-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effectiveness of strategies and types of tests on HIV testing uptake by men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW), and in reaching PLWH. Articles published up to July 2020 were identified from major electronic databases and grey literature. Data were extracted and assessed for risk of bias. Estimates were pooled using random-effect meta-analysis while heterogeneity was evaluated by Cochran's Q test and I2. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020192740). Of 6820 titles, 263 studies (n = 67,288 participants) were included. The testing strategies reported in most studies were community- (71.2%) and facility-based (28.8%). Highest uptake, with facility-based testing, occurred and reached more PLWH while with standard laboratory tests, it occurred with the highest HIV prevalence among MSM. However, urine test showed a highest rate of new HIV infection. Multiple test combinations had the highest uptake and reached more PLWH among TGW. Various testing strategies, considering barriers and regional differences, and different test types, need be considered, to increase uptake among MSM and TGW.
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8
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Sharma A, Gandhi M, Sallabank G, Merrill L, Stephenson R. Study Evaluating Self-Collected Specimen Return for HIV, Bacterial STI, and Potential Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Adherence Testing Among Sexual Minority Men in the United States. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221115591. [PMID: 35950608 PMCID: PMC9380227 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221115591] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Web-based HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention studies are
increasingly requesting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men
(GBMSM) to return self-collected specimens for laboratory processing. Some
studies have solicited self-collected extragenital swabs for gonorrhea and
chlamydia testing, but to date, none have solicited self-collected hair samples
for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence testing. Project Caboodle! offered
100 racially/ethnically diverse GBMSM aged 18 to 34 years residing across the
United States a choice to self-collect at home and return by mail any of the
following: a finger-stick blood sample (for HIV testing), a pharyngeal swab, a
rectal swab and a urine specimen (for gonorrhea and chlamydia testing), and a
hair sample (to visually assess its adequacy for PrEP drug level testing).
Despite not incentivizing specimen return, 51% mailed back at least one type of
specimen within 6 weeks (1% returned three specimens, 11% returned four
specimens and 39% returned all five specimens). The majority of returned
specimens were adequate for laboratory processing. Significantly more
participants without a college education (p = .0003) and those
who were working full-time or part-time (p = .0070) did not
return any specimens. In addition, lower levels of HIV-related knowledge
(p = .0390), STI-related knowledge (p =
.0162), concern about contracting HIV (p = .0484), and concern
about contracting STIs (p = .0108) were observed among
participants who did not return any specimens. Self-collection of specimens
holds promise as a remote monitoring strategy that could supplement testing in
clinical settings, but a better understanding of why some GBMSM may choose to
fully, partially, or not engage in this approach is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Sharma
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Monica Gandhi
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gregory Sallabank
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Leland Merrill
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Medu O, Lawal A, Coyle D, Pottie K. Economic evaluation of HIV testing options for low-prevalence high-income countries: a systematic review. HEALTH ECONOMICS REVIEW 2021; 11:19. [PMID: 34100138 PMCID: PMC8186150 DOI: 10.1186/s13561-021-00318-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study reviewed the economic evidence of rapid HIV testing versus conventional HIV testing in low-prevalence high-income countries; evaluated the methodological quality of existing economic evaluations of HIV testing studies; and made recommendations on future economic evaluation directions of HIV testing approaches. METHODS A systematic search of selected databases for relevant English language studies published between Jan 1, 2001, and Jan 30, 2019, was conducted. The methodological design quality was assessed using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) and the Drummond tool. We reported the systematic review according to the PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Five economic evaluations met the eligibility criteria but varied in comparators, evaluation type, perspective, and design. The methodologic quality of the included studies ranged from medium to high. We found evidence to support the cost-effectiveness of rapid HIV testing approaches in low-prevalence high-income countries. Rapid HIV testing was associated with cost per adjusted life year (QALY), ranging from $42,768 to $90,498. Additionally, regardless of HIV prevalence, rapid HIV testing approaches were the most cost-effective option. CONCLUSIONS There is evidence for the cost-effectiveness of rapid HIV testing, including the use of saliva-based testing compared to usual care or hospital-based serum testing. Further studies are needed to draw evidence on the relative cost-effectiveness of the distinct options and contexts of rapid HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Doug Coyle
- University of Ottawa School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Ottawa, Canada
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Ballard AM, Haardöerfer R, Prood N, Mbagwu C, Cooper HLF, Young AM. Willingness to Participate in At-Home HIV Testing Among Young Adults Who Use Opioids in Rural Appalachia. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:699-708. [PMID: 32910353 PMCID: PMC7481760 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03034-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
New HIV infections associated with injection drug use are of major concern in rural US communities. This study explores acceptability of, consent for, and uptake of free at-home HIV testing among people who use drugs (PWUD) in one of the nation’s epicenters for drug-related harms and HIV vulnerability: Rural Central Appalachia. Eligible participants were 18–35 years old, lived in Appalachian Kentucky, and reported using opioids to get high in the previous 30 days. A majority reported being likely (63.6%, 96/151) to take a free at-home HIV tests and 66.9% (101/151) consented to receive one. Among those who were randomly selected to receive a Home Access HIV-1 test kit (n = 37), 37.8% mailed in blood spots and 21.6% called to receive results. This study provides evidence that PWUD may be willing to take an at-home test, but other barriers may inhibit actual completion.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Ballard
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA.
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
| | - Regine Haardöerfer
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nadya Prood
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chukwudi Mbagwu
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - April M Young
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
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Eliciting Preferences for HIV Prevention Technologies: A Systematic Review. PATIENT-PATIENT CENTERED OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2020; 14:151-174. [PMID: 33319339 PMCID: PMC7884379 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-020-00486-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Many human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention technologies (pre-exposure prophylaxis, microbicides, vaccines) are available or in development. Preference elicitation methods provide insight into client preferences that may be used to optimize products and services. Given increased utilization of such methods in HIV prevention, this article identifies and reviews these methods and synthesizes their application to HIV prevention technologies. Methods In May 2020, we systematically searched peer-reviewed literature in PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science for studies employing quantitative preference elicitation methods to measure preferences for HIV prevention technologies among populations of any age, sex, or location. Quality assessment used an existing checklist (PREFS) and a novel adaptation of the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (PROSPERO #CRD42018087027). Results We screened 5022 titles and abstracts, reviewed 318 full texts, and included 84 studies. Common methods employed were discrete-choice experiment (33%), conjoint analysis (25%), and willingness-to-participate/try/accept (21%). Studies were conducted in 25 countries and had a mean of 768 participants (range = 26–7176), two-thirds of them male. Common HIV prevention technologies included pre-exposure prophylaxis (23%), voluntary testing and counseling (19%), HIV self-testing (17%), vaccines (15%), and topical microbicides (9%). Most attributes focused on product design (side effects, frequency), service design (provider type, location), acceptability or willingness to accept/pay; results are summarized in these categories, by prevention type. Mean quality-adapted Newcastle–Ottawa Scale score was 4.5/8 (standard deviation = 2.1) and mean PREFS scores was 3.47/5 (standard deviation = 0.81). Conclusions This review synthesizes extant literature on quantitative measurement of preferences for HIV prevention technologies. This can enable practitioners to improve prevention products and interventions, and ultimately reduce HIV incidence.
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Rolland C, de La Rochebrochard E, Piron P, Shelly M, Segouin C, Troude P. Who fails to return within 30 days after being tested positive for HIV/STI in a free testing centre? BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:795. [PMID: 33109139 PMCID: PMC7590592 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05520-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Some patients who test positive for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) fail to return for results and treatment. To target improvement actions, we need to find out who these patients are. This study aimed to explore factors associated with failure to return within 30 days (FTR30) after testing among patients with positive results in a free STI testing centre in Paris. Methods All patients with at least one positive result between October 2016 and May 2017 and who completed a self-administered questionnaire were included in this cross-sectional study (n = 214). The questionnaire included sociodemographic factors, sexual behaviour and history of testing. Factors associated with FTR30 were assessed using logistic regression models. Results More than two-thirds of patients were men (72%), and the median age of patients was 27 years. Most patients were born in metropolitan France (56%) or in sub-Saharan Africa (22%). Men who had sex with men represented 36% of the study population. The FTR30 rate was 14% (95% CI [10–19%]). In multivariate analysis, previous HIV testing in younger persons (aOR: 3.36, 95% CI [1.27–8.84]), being accompanied by another person at the pretest consultation (aOR: 3.45, 95% CI [1.36–8.91]), and lower self-perceived risk of HIV infection (aOR: 2.79, 95% CI [1.07–7.30]) were associated with a higher FTR30. Testing for chlamydia/gonorrhoea without presumptive treatment was associated with a lower FTR30 (aOR: 0.21, 95% CI [0.07–0.59]). Conclusions These factors that affect failure to return are related to the patient’s representations and involvement in the STI screening process. Increasing health literacy and patient empowerment could help to decrease failure to return after being tested positive for HIV/STI. Trial registration Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Rolland
- Department of Public Health, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, 200 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Denis, F-75475, Paris Cedex 10, Paris, France. .,Free Sexual Health Centre, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, Paris, France.
| | - Elise de La Rochebrochard
- Institut National d'Etudes Démographiques (Ined), Aubervilliers, France.,University Paris-Saclay, University Paris-Sud, UVSQ, CESP, INSERM, Paris, Villejuif, France
| | - Prescillia Piron
- Department of Public Health, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, 200 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Denis, F-75475, Paris Cedex 10, Paris, France.,Free Sexual Health Centre, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Marc Shelly
- Department of Public Health, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, 200 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Denis, F-75475, Paris Cedex 10, Paris, France.,Free Sexual Health Centre, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Segouin
- Department of Public Health, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, 200 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Denis, F-75475, Paris Cedex 10, Paris, France.,Free Sexual Health Centre, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Pénélope Troude
- Department of Public Health, University Hospital Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, AP-HP, 200 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Denis, F-75475, Paris Cedex 10, Paris, France.,Institut National d'Etudes Démographiques (Ined), Aubervilliers, France
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Guest JL, Sullivan PS, Valentine-Graves M, Valencia R, Adam E, Luisi N, Nakano M, Guarner J, Del Rio C, Sailey C, Goedecke Z, Siegler AJ, Sanchez TH. Suitability and Sufficiency of Telehealth Clinician-Observed, Participant-Collected Samples for SARS-CoV-2 Testing: The iCollect Cohort Pilot Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2020; 6:e19731. [PMID: 32479412 PMCID: PMC7318863 DOI: 10.2196/19731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic calls for expanded opportunities for testing, including novel testing strategies such as home-collected specimens. OBJECTIVE We aimed to understand whether oropharyngeal swab (OPS), saliva, and dried blood spot (DBS) specimens collected by participants at home and mailed to a laboratory were sufficient for use in diagnostic and serology tests of SARS-CoV-2. METHODS Eligible participants consented online and were mailed a participant-collection kit to support collection of three specimens for SARS-CoV-2 testing: saliva, OPS, and DBS. Participants performed the specimen collection procedures during a telehealth video appointment while clinical observers watched and documented the suitability of the collection. The biological sufficiency of the specimens for detection of SARS-CoV-2 by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and serology testing was assessed by laboratorians using visual inspection and quantification of the nucleic acid contents of the samples by ribonuclease P (RNase P) measurements. RESULTS Of the enrolled participants,153/159 (96.2%) returned their kits, which were included in this analysis. All these participants attended their video appointments. Clinical observers assessed that of the samples collected, 147/153 (96.1%) of the saliva samples, 146/151 (96.7%) of the oropharyngeal samples, and 135/145 (93.1%) of the DBS samples were of sufficient quality for submission for laboratory testing; 100% of the OPS samples and 98% of the saliva samples had cycle threshold values for RNase P <30, indicating that the samples contained sufficient nucleic acid for RNA-PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2. CONCLUSIONS These pilot data indicate that most participant-collected OPS, saliva, and DBS specimens are suitable and sufficient for testing for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and serology. Clinical observers rated the collection of specimens as suitable for testing, and visual and quantitative laboratory assessment indicated that the specimens were biologically sufficient. These data support the utility of participant-collected and mailed-in specimens for SARS-CoV-2 testing. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/19054.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodie L Guest
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Rachel Valencia
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Adam
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Mariko Nakano
- Molecular Testing Labs, Vancouver, WA, United States
| | | | - Carlos Del Rio
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Zoe Goedecke
- Molecular Testing Labs, Vancouver, WA, United States
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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14
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Luo M, Hann K, Zhang G, Pan X, Ma Q, Jiang J, Chen L, Xia S. HIV testing uptake and yield among sexual partners of HIV-positive men who have sex with men in Zhejiang Province, China, 2014-2016: A cross-sectional pilot study of a choice-based partner tracing and testing package. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0232268. [PMID: 32497114 PMCID: PMC7272034 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0232268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Measures to effectively expand tracing and testing to identify undiagnosed HIV infections are significant for the control of HIV/AIDS epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSM). We piloted a choice-based tracing and testing package aimed at improving partner tracing, uptake, and yield of HIV testing for sexual partners of newly diagnosed HIV-positive MSM. Methods This package was piloted in the cities of Hangzhou and Ningbo, Zhejiang province, China from June 2014 to June 2016. The package adopted four modes: couples’ HIV counseling and testing (CHCT), information assisted partner notification (IAPN), assisted HIV self-testing (HIVST) and patient referral. Data regarding sociodemographic factors and sexual behaviors between HIV-positive MSM and their sexual partners, as well as tracing and testing outcomes of each mode, were collected. Results Among 2,495 newly diagnosed HIV-positive MSM, 446(18%) were enrolled as index cases (ICs) through two rounds of contact tracing. The ICs disclosed a total of 4,716 sexual partners, of whom 548 (12%) were reachable. The pilot study resulted in a testing uptake of 87% (478/548), and a yield of 16% (74/478) among sexual partners. The generalized linear mixed model showed that the odds of a reachable sexual partner enrolled via IAPN taking an HIV test were 290% greater than that of a partner traced via CHCT (95% CI: 1.6, 9.3). Conclusions A choice-based tracing and testing package can feasibly expand HIV testing uptake and case finding among sexual partners of HIV-positive MSM. IAPN may be an acceptable option to reach sexual partners for whom limited contact information is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyu Luo
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Guomin Zhang
- National Immunization Program, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
| | - Xiaohong Pan
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- * E-mail: (XP); (QM)
| | - Qiaoqin Ma
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- * E-mail: (XP); (QM)
| | - Jun Jiang
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shichang Xia
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
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15
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Teran RA, Carrico AW, Horvath KJ, Downing MJ, Chiasson MA, Walters SM, Hirshfield S. Stimulant Use and Study Protocol Completion: Assessing the Ability of Men Who Have Sex with Men to Collect Dried Blood Spots for Laboratory Measurement of HIV Viral Load. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:195-209. [PMID: 31630286 PMCID: PMC7018572 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01515-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Stimulant use is associated with higher HIV viral load (VL) and sexual HIV transmission risk among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV. There is little research on willingness of drug users living with HIV to fully participate in studies, especially those involving self-collection of biomarker data. This study presents findings from an at-home dried blood spot collection study measuring laboratory-quantified VL among U.S. HIV-positive MSM who reported high-risk sexual behavior and/or suboptimal antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence to assess the association between drug-use behavior and (1) ability to complete a study protocol and (2) VL outcomes. Among recruited participants (n = 766), 35% reported stimulant drug use (amphetamines, cocaine, crack, crystal meth, ecstasy, or a combination of stimulant drugs), 39% reported using other drugs (heroin, marijuana, prescription opioids, and others), and 27% reported no drug use in the past 3 months. In all, 61% of enrolled participants completed the study protocol. Stimulant drug users were less likely (ARR 0.84; 95% CI 0.72-0.98) to complete the protocol than other drug users. Furthermore, other drug users were significantly less likely than non-drug users (ARR 0.52; 95% CI 0.28-0.97) to have an HIV VL result ≥ 1500 copies/mL. This study provides important estimates regarding the likelihood of participation in biomedical research activities among HIV-positive MSM with varying drug-use behaviors, showing that it is feasible to conduct such biomedical studies with drug-using MSM who report high-risk sexual behavior and struggle with their ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Teran
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 722 West 168th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Martin J Downing
- Department of Psychology, School of Natural and Social Sciences, Lehman College, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Mary Ann Chiasson
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 722 West 168th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Suzan M Walters
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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16
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Wang X, Tang Z, Wu Z, Nong Q, Li Y. Promoting oral HIV self-testing via the internet among men who have sex with men in China: a feasibility assessment. HIV Med 2019; 21:322-333. [PMID: 31849177 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The HIV prevalence among Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM) is high, while the HIV testing rate is low. HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a promising means of scaling up HIV testing among MSM in China, as the ability to test in private is appealing to many individuals. We evaluated the feasibility of promoting oral HIVST via the internet in the MSM population. METHODS From April 2013 to April 2014, MSM in two major cities in China were recruited for an observational study with assessment at baseline and follow-up. Data were collected via questionnaire, oral HIVST, and clinic-based HIV confirmatory testing. RESULTS A total of 510 MSM were recruited at baseline and 279 (54.7%) returned for a clinic follow-up visit. Compared to MSM recruited via peer referral, those recruited via the internet were better educated, had a higher monthly income, sought and met male sex partners online more frequently, had less often tested or orally tested for HIV before, and being more likely to seek HIV knowledge or HIV intervention information online. The sensitivity of oral HIVST among MSM recruited via the internet was 92.9%, and the specificity was 96.8%. A total of 19.0% of MSM sought both male sex partners and HIV intervention programmes online. The associated factors were > 10 past male sex partners and ever testing for HIV using an oral self-test kit. All MSM who were followed up re-administered oral HIVST, yet fewer MSM recruited via the internet accepted blood retesting than other MSM. CONCLUSIONS Promoting oral HIVST via the internet could be a feasible and promising approach to facilitate HIV testing among MSM in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Wang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Z Tang
- Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Z Wu
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Q Nong
- The Eighth People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, China
| | - Y Li
- Fengtai District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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17
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Bringing HIV Self-Testing to Scale in the United States: a Review of Challenges, Potential Solutions, and Future Opportunities. J Clin Microbiol 2019; 57:JCM.00257-19. [PMID: 31462549 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00257-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV self-testing (HIVST) provides an at-home option to counter the barriers that patients face with testing performed in health care settings. HIVST has gradually increased in popularity in a time when social media and technology-based solutions are preferred. In this paper, we consider the aspects of self-testing that merit its integration into HIV testing and prevention systems in the United States. Several elements favor self-testing for large-scale implementation, including ease of use, convenience, potential for integration with mobile health (mHealth), and availability for various modes of distribution. HIVST has a demonstrated ability to reach at-risk individuals who otherwise rarely test. The paradigm of self-testing, however, introduces new challenges, including lesser test performance relative to that in health care settings, nonstandard counseling following receipt of test results, and difficulty in providing linkage to care. After discussing the performance of oral fluid versus blood-based HIVST, we review data regarding acceptability of HIVST, offer insights into counseling and linkage to care for HIVST, and provide examples of novel applications of and future research directions for HIVST.
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18
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Phanuphak N, Anand T, Jantarapakde J, Nitpolprasert C, Himmad K, Sungsing T, Trachunthong D, Phomthong S, Phoseeta P, Tongmuang S, Mingkwanrungruang P, Meekrua D, Sukthongsa S, Hongwiangchan S, Upanun N, Barisri J, Pankam T, Phanuphak P. What would you choose: Online or Offline or Mixed services? Feasibility of online HIV counselling and testing among Thai men who have sex with men and transgender women and factors associated with service uptake. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 21 Suppl 5:e25118. [PMID: 30033644 PMCID: PMC6055119 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction HIV testing coverage remains low among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW). We studied characteristics of Thai MSM and TGW who chose online and/or offline platforms for HIV counselling and testing and the feasibility of integrating online technologies and HIV self‐testing to create service options. Methods From December 2015 to June 2017, MSM and TGW enrolled from Bangkok Metropolitan Region and Pattaya could choose between: 1 offline HIV counselling and testing (Offline group), 2 online pre‐test counselling and offline HIV testing (Mixed group), and 3 online counselling and online, supervised, HIV self‐testing (Online group). Sociodemographic data, risk behaviour and social network use characteristics were collected by self‐administered questionnaires. Logistic regression models identified covariates for service preferences. Results Of 472 MSM and 99 TGW enrolled, 202 self‐selected the Offline group, 158 preferred the Mixed group, and 211 chose the Online group. The Online group had the highest proportion of first‐time testers (47.3% vs. 42.4% vs. 18.1%, p < 0.001) and reported highest HIV prevalence (15.9% vs. 13.0% vs. 3.4%, p = 0.001) as compared to Offline and Mixed groups, respectively. Having tested for HIV twice or more (OR 2.57, 95% CI 1.03 to 6.41, p = 0.04) increased the likelihood to choose online pre‐test counselling. Being TGW (OR 6.66, 95% CI 2.91 to 15.25, p < 0.001) and using social media from four to eight hours (OR 2.82, 95% CI 1.48 to 5.37, p = 0.002) or >8 hours (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.05 to 5.16, p = 0.04) increased selection of online, supervised, HIV self‐testing. Providers primarily used smartphones (79.2%) and laptops (37.5%) to deliver online services. Self‐testing strip image sharpness and colour quality were rated “good” to “excellent” by all providers. Most participants (95.1%) agreed that online supervision and HIV self‐testing guidance offered were satisfactory and well delivered. Conclusions Online HIV services among MSM and TGW are feasible in Thailand and have the potential to engage high proportions of first‐time testers and those with high HIV prevalence. When designing public health interventions, integrating varied levels of online HIV services are vital to engage specific sections of MSM and TGW populations in HIV services. Clinical Trial Number NCT03203265
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Affiliation(s)
- Nittaya Phanuphak
- PREVENTION, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tarandeep Anand
- PREVENTION, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | - Kanittha Himmad
- PREVENTION, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanthip Sungsing
- PREVENTION, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Sangusa Phomthong
- PREVENTION, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Petchfa Phoseeta
- PREVENTION, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sumitr Tongmuang
- PREVENTION, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Dusita Meekrua
- Service Workers IN Group (SWING) Foundation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | | | - Jiranuwat Barisri
- Anonymous Clinic Laboratory, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tippawan Pankam
- Anonymous Clinic Laboratory, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Praphan Phanuphak
- PREVENTION, The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, Thailand
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John SA, Cain D, Bradford-Rogers J, Rendina HJ, Grov C. Gay and bisexual men's experiences using self-testing kits for HIV and rectal and urethral bacterial sexually transmitted infections: Lessons learned from a study with home-based testing. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2019; 31:308-318. [PMID: 32983310 PMCID: PMC7518382 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2019.1645075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the experiences of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) conducting HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) self-testing procedures. We analyzed mixed-methods data from 11 GBM who self-tested HIV-positive and 1,070 HIV-negative GBM who completed the HIV self-testing and STI self-sampling procedures. Nearly all (99%) reported ease in urine-based STI self-sampling and most (90%) found rectal swab self-collection easy. Most (94%) checked their rapid-HIV self-testing results during the correct window (20-40 minutes), and nearly all (99%) trusted their HIV results. Recommendations for future self-testing procedures are provided based on findings from free-response data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A. John
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Demetria Cain
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
| | - Jesse Bradford-Rogers
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
| | - H. Jonathon Rendina
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
- Doctoral Program in Health Psychology and Clinical Science, The Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy; The CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY, USA
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20
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Sharma A, Stephenson R, Sallabank G, Merrill L, Sullivan S, Gandhi M. Acceptability and Feasibility of Self-Collecting Biological Specimens for HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infection, and Adherence Testing Among High-Risk Populations (Project Caboodle!): Protocol for an Exploratory Mixed-Methods Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e13647. [PMID: 31045502 PMCID: PMC6521211 DOI: 10.2196/13647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States experience a disproportionate burden of HIV and bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. Screening levels among MSM remain inadequate owing to barriers to testing such as stigma, privacy and confidentiality concerns, transportation issues, insufficient clinic time, and limited access to health care. Self-collection of specimens at home and their return by mail for HIV and bacterial STI testing, as well as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence monitoring, could be a resource-efficient option that might mitigate some of these barriers. OBJECTIVE Project Caboodle! is a mixed-methods study that explores the acceptability and feasibility of self-collecting and returning a bundle of 5 different specimens for HIV and bacterial STI testing, as well as PrEP adherence monitoring, among sexually active HIV-negative or unknown status MSM in the United States aged 18 to 34 years. METHODS Participants will be recruited using age, race, and ethnicity varied advertising on social networking websites and mobile gay dating apps. In Phase 1, we will send 100 participants a box containing materials for self-collecting and potentially returning a finger-stick blood sample (for HIV testing), pharyngeal swab, rectal swab, and urine specimen (for gonorrhea and chlamydia testing), and hair sample (to assess adequacy for potential PrEP adherence monitoring). Specimen return will not be incentivized, and participants can choose to mail back all, some, or none of the specimens. Test results will be delivered back to participants by trained counselors over the phone. In Phase 2, we will conduct individual in-depth interviews using a video-based teleconferencing software (VSee) with 32 participants from Phase 1 (half who returned all specimens and half who returned some or no specimens) to examine attitudes toward and barriers to completing various study activities. RESULTS Project Caboodle! was funded in May 2018, and participant recruitment began in March 2019. The processes of designing a study logo, creating advertisements, programming Web-based surveys, and finalizing step-by-step written instructions accompanied by color images for specimen self-collection have been completed. The boxes containing 5 self-collection kits affixed with unique identification stickers are being assembled, and shipping procedures (for mailing out boxes to participants and for specimen return by participants using prepaid shipping envelopes) and payment procedures for completing the surveys and in-depth interviews are being finalized. CONCLUSIONS Self-collection of biological specimens at home and their return by mail for HIV and bacterial STI testing, as well as PrEP adherence monitoring, might offer a practical and convenient solution to improve comprehensive prevention efforts for high-risk MSM. The potentially reduced time, expense, and travel associated with this approach could facilitate a wider implementation of screening algorithms and remote monitoring strategies. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/13647.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Sharma
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Gregory Sallabank
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Leland Merrill
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Stephen Sullivan
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Monica Gandhi
- Division of HIV, Infectious Disease, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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21
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Seguin M, Dodds C, Mugweni E, McDaid L, Flowers P, Wayal S, Zomer E, Weatherburn P, Fakoya I, Hartney T, McDonagh L, Hunter R, Young I, Khan S, Freemantle N, Chwaula J, Sachikonye M, Anderson J, Singh S, Nastouli E, Rait G, Burns F. Self-sampling kits to increase HIV testing among black Africans in the UK: the HAUS mixed-methods study. Health Technol Assess 2019; 22:1-158. [PMID: 29717978 DOI: 10.3310/hta22220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timely diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) enables access to antiretroviral treatment, which reduces mortality, morbidity and further transmission in people living with HIV. In the UK, late diagnosis among black African people persists. Novel methods to enhance HIV testing in this population are needed. OBJECTIVES To develop a self-sampling kit (SSK) intervention to increase HIV testing among black Africans, using existing community and health-care settings (stage 1) and to assess the feasibility for a Phase III evaluation (stage 2). DESIGN A two-stage, mixed-methods design. Stage 1 involved a systematic literature review, focus groups and interviews with key stakeholders and black Africans. Data obtained provided the theoretical base for intervention development and operationalisation. Stage 2 was a prospective, non-randomised study of a provider-initiated, HIV SSK distribution intervention targeted at black Africans. The intervention was assessed for cost-effectiveness. A process evaluation explored feasibility, acceptability and fidelity. SETTING Twelve general practices and three community settings in London. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE HIV SSK return rate. RESULTS Stage 1 - the systematic review revealed support for HIV SSKs, but with scant evidence on their use and clinical effectiveness among black Africans. Although the qualitative findings supported SSK distribution in settings already used by black Africans, concerns were raised about the complexity of the SSK and the acceptability of targeting. These findings were used to develop a theoretically informed intervention. Stage 2 - of the 349 eligible people approached, 125 (35.8%) agreed to participate. Data from 119 were included in the analysis; 54.5% (65/119) of those who took a kit returned a sample; 83.1% of tests returned were HIV negative; and 16.9% were not processed, because of insufficient samples. Process evaluation showed the time pressures of the research process to be a significant barrier to feasibility. Other major barriers were difficulties with the SSK itself and ethnic targeting in general practice settings. The convenience and privacy associated with the SSK were described as beneficial aspects, and those who used the kit mostly found the intervention to be acceptable. Research governance delays prevented implementation in Glasgow. LIMITATIONS Owing to the study failing to recruit adequate numbers (the intended sample was 1200 participants), we were unable to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of SSKs in increasing HIV testing in black African people. No samples were reactive, so we were unable to assess pathways to confirmatory testing and linkage to care. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that, although aspects of the intervention were acceptable, ethnic targeting and the SSK itself were problematic, and scale-up of the intervention to a Phase III trial was not feasible. The preliminary economic model suggests that, for the acceptance rate and test return seen in the trial, the SSK is potentially a cost-effective way to identify new infections of HIV. FUTURE WORK Sexual and public health services are increasingly utilising self-sampling technologies. However, alternative, user-friendly SSKs that meet user and provider preferences and UK regulatory requirements are needed, and additional research is required to understand clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness for black African communities. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42014010698 and Integrated Research Application System project identification 184223. FUNDING The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme and the BHA for Equality in Health and Social Care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen Seguin
- Research Department, Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Catherine Dodds
- Sigma Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Esther Mugweni
- Research Department, Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lisa McDaid
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Paul Flowers
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Sonali Wayal
- Research Department, Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ella Zomer
- Research Department, Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Peter Weatherburn
- Sigma Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ibidun Fakoya
- Research Department, Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Hartney
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lorraine McDonagh
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- Research Department, Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ingrid Young
- Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Shabana Khan
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nick Freemantle
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Jane Anderson
- Centre for the Study of Sexual Health and HIV, Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Surinder Singh
- Research Department, Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Eleni Nastouli
- Virology Department, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Greta Rait
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK.,PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fiona Burns
- Research Department, Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK.,Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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22
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Cushman TA, Graves SK, Little SJ. Attitudes and Preferences Regarding the Use of Rapid Self-Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV in San Diego Area Men Who Have Sex With Men. Open Forum Infect Dis 2019; 6:ofz043. [PMID: 30906798 PMCID: PMC6424479 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofz043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) increase the risk of HIV transmission and are present at high rates among men who have sex with men (MSM). Adherence to HIV/STI testing guidelines is low in the United States. Testing programs that utilize rapid self-administered HIV/STI tests improve testing rates, though multiple factors influence their uptake. Methods MSM were recruited at an HIV/STI testing and treatment program in 2014 and provided consent, demographics, risk behaviors, HIV/STI test preferences, and perceived testing barriers via an online questionnaire. Comparisons of testing preferences and barriers were made based on age, risk group, and HIV serostatus using the Fisher exact test. Results HIV testing preferences included rapid oral test (71.1%), home test location (78.5%), electronic delivery of HIV-negative test results (76.4%), and direct provider notification for HIV-positive test results (70%), with respondents age >45 years being significantly more likely to prefer home testing (P = .033). STI testing preferences included self-collection of specimens (73.2%), home test location (61%), electronic delivery of negative STI test results (76.4%), and direct provider notification for positive STI test results (56.6%) with no significant differences between age, HIV serostatus, or risk groups. The most frequently reported HIV and STI testing barrier was lack of known prior HIV/STI exposure (57.3% for HIV, 62.9% for STI) with respondents age <45 years more frequently citing inconvenience as a barrier to testing (HIV: 50.9% vs 17.4%, P = .010; STI: 58.3% vs 31.8%, P = .070). Conclusions Although additional research is needed, increasing resources directed specifically toward home testing has the potential to translate into improved uptake of rapid HIV/STI testing. Efforts to improve convenience in testing programs must be balanced with the need for continued educational outreach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa A Cushman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Susannah K Graves
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Susan J Little
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
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23
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Reisner SL, Perez-Brumer A, Oldenburg CE, Gamarel KE, Malone J, Leung K, Mimiaga MJ, Rosenberger JG, Biello KB. Characterizing HIV risk among cisgender men in Latin America who report transgender women as sexual partners: HIV risk in Latin America men. Int J STD AIDS 2019; 30:378-385. [PMID: 30537903 PMCID: PMC9897015 DOI: 10.1177/0956462418802687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cisgender men (CM) who report transgender women (TW) as sexual partners are an understudied population in the HIV epidemic in Latin America. The current study sought to characterize this group in a 2012 cross-sectional online survey of Latin American CM who were members of a sexual networking website for men who have sex with men (N = 11,847). Multivariable logistic regression models were fit to estimate demographic, behavioral, and psychosocial correlates of having a TW sexual partner and engaging in condomless sex. Overall, 0.9% (n = 106) reported a TW sexual partner in the last 12 months; of these, 76.4% (n = 81) reported condomless sex in the last three months. Identifying as bisexual or heterosexual compared to gay, and specifying a versatile sexual role preference compared to insertive were associated with reporting a recent TW sex partner (all p < 0.05). HIV-negative serostatus, lifetime STI history, and alcohol dependence were associated with recent condomless sex (all p < 0.05). CM with TW sexual partners have distinct HIV-related vulnerabilities. Future research is needed to understand CM who report TW sexual partners, including their sexual preferences and practices, sexual networks, exposure to stigma, biomedical prevention interest and uptake, and acceptability of integrating alcohol abuse screening into sexual health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari L Reisner
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jowanna Malone
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD
| | - Kingsley Leung
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD
| | - Matthew J Mimiaga
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Joshua G Rosenberger
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Katie B. Biello
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI
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24
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Sharma A, Kahle E, Todd K, Peitzmeier S, Stephenson R. Variations in Testing for HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections Across Gender Identity Among Transgender Youth. Transgend Health 2019; 4:46-57. [PMID: 30805557 PMCID: PMC6386078 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2018.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Transgender youth are at high risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but their rates of screening are unknown. This study sought to quantify HIV and other STI testing levels and to examine variations in testing levels across three categories of gender identity: transgender men, transgender women, and nonbinary individuals. Methods: Between June 2017 and June 2018, 186 transgender youth aged 15–24 years were recruited into a randomized trial of home HIV testing supplemented with telehealth-based counseling. Information on sociodemographics, health care utilization, sexual activity, stress and resilience, and history of HIV and other STI testing was obtained. Multivariable logistic regression models were formulated to identify variations in testing for HIV and other STIs across gender identities. Results: Twenty-eight of 186 participants (15.1%) reported testing for HIV in the past year, and 42 (22.6%) reported testing for other STIs. Transgender women were less likely to have been tested for HIV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.15, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03–0.78) and other STIs (aOR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.11–0.99), but nonbinary individuals were equally likely to have been tested compared with transgender men. Participants who agreed that their health care provider is knowledgeable about transgender health issues were thrice as likely to have been tested for HIV (aOR: 3.29, 95% CI: 1.36–7.97) and other STIs (aOR: 3.05, 95% CI: 1.40–6.63) compared with those who disagreed. Conclusion: Low levels of testing among transgender youth highlight the exigency of improving gender- and age-appropriate HIV and other STI prevention services. Given that provider knowledge of transgender health issues was strongly associated with testing, training health care providers in transgender-related care could prove beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Sharma
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Address correspondence to: Akshay Sharma, MBBS, MPH, PhD, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, 400 N Ingalls Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,
| | - Erin Kahle
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kieran Todd
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sarah Peitzmeier
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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25
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Takano M, Iwahashi K, Satoh I, Araki J, Kinami T, Ikushima Y, Fukuhara T, Obinata H, Nakayama Y, Kikuchi Y, Oka S. Assessment of HIV prevalence among MSM in Tokyo using self-collected dried blood spots delivered through the postal service. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:627. [PMID: 30518333 PMCID: PMC6282288 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3491-0] [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: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk of HIV infection. However, there are only few data on HIV prevalence in MSM in Japan. The objective of this study was to explore the HIV prevalence in MSM at Shinjuku 2-chome, a well known gay quarter in Tokyo. METHODS MSM directly collected the dried blood spot (DBS) self-collection HIV test kit from a drop-in center in Shinjuku 2-chome between August 2015 and December 2016. The participants collected their own blood by finger-prick and anonymously posted the kit to the laboratory. The participants accessed the study website and checked the results of their tests using unique ID and password. DBS was soaked in phosphate buffered saline overnight and the eluted sample was examined by the fourth generation HIV Ag/Ab test of LUMIPULSE (FUJIREBIO INC.), and followed by HISCL (Sysmex Corp.) when the first assay was positive. The result was defined provisionally positive if both were positive. RESULTS A total of 1702 HIV test kits were distributed and 1403 DBS were returned (return rate: 82.4%). Since 20.2% of participants collected the test kit more than once, the estimated number of actual test kit users was 1120. Based on the results of the test kit, 34 cases were provisionally diagnosed with HIV. The estimated prevalence was 3.04% (95% confidence interval: 2.03-4.04). Of these 34, 24 (70.6%) were later confirmed to be HIV-positive in the hospital, while the remaining 10 were lost to follow-up. Among the participants, 34.5% received HIV test for the first time. Especially in those aged 20-29, 46.0% were first time HIV testers. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of HIV infection in the study population was 3.04%. The high collection suggested a demand for this type of testing in MSM. The test should be expanded further to difficult-to-reach or hidden populations. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry in August 20th, 2015 (Registry number: UMIN000018699 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Misao Takano
- Medical Genomic Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655, Japan.
| | - Kohta Iwahashi
- AKTA, 2-15-13-302 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0022, Japan
| | - Ikuo Satoh
- PLACE TOKYO, 4-11-5-403 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-0075, Japan
| | - Junko Araki
- AKTA, 2-15-13-302 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0022, Japan
| | - Takuya Kinami
- AKTA, 2-15-13-302 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0022, Japan
| | - Yuzuru Ikushima
- PLACE TOKYO, 4-11-5-403 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-0075, Japan
| | - Toshiya Fukuhara
- PLACE TOKYO, 4-11-5-403 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-0075, Japan
| | - Hiroo Obinata
- Higashi-Shinjuku Kokorono Clinic, 2F 6-28-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0022, Japan
| | - Yasuyo Nakayama
- Higashi-Shinjuku Kokorono Clinic, 2F 6-28-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0022, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Kikuchi
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655, Japan
| | - Shinichi Oka
- AIDS Clinical Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655, Japan
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26
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Hirshfield S, Teran RA, Downing MJ, Chiasson MA, Tieu HV, Dize L, Gaydos CA. Quantification of HIV-1 RNA Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Using an At-Home Self-Collected Dried Blood Spot Specimen: Feasibility Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2018; 4:e10847. [PMID: 30389648 PMCID: PMC6238105 DOI: 10.2196/10847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suboptimal antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and disengagement in care present significant public health challenges because of the increased probability of HIV transmission. In the United States, men who have sex with men (MSM) continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV, highlighting a critical need to engage high-risk MSM living with HIV who are not engaged or retained in care. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility of at-home blood self-collection and laboratory quantification of HIV-1 RNA viral load (VL) to report laboratory-based VL outcomes and compare self-reported and laboratory-reported VL. METHODS Between 2016 and 2017, 766 US HIV-positive MSM enrolled in a Web-based behavioral intervention were invited to participate in an at-home dried blood spot (DBS) collection study using HemaSpot-HF kits (Spot On Sciences, Inc, Austin, TX) for laboratory-quantified VL. RESULTS Of those invited to participate, 72.3% (554/766) enrolled in the DBS study. Most (79.2%, 439/554) men enrolled reported attempting to collect their blood, 75.5% (418/554) of participants mailed a DBS specimen to the research laboratory, and 60.8% (337/554) had an adequate blood sample for VL testing. Of the 337 specimens tested for VL by the laboratory, 52.5% (177/337) had detectable VL (median: 3508 copies/mL; range: 851-1,202,265 copies/mL). Most men (83.9%, 135/161) who returned a DBS specimen with laboratory-quantified detectable VL self-reported an undetectable VL during their last clinical visit. CONCLUSIONS Home collection of DBS samples from HIV-positive MSM is feasible and has the potential to support clinical VL monitoring. Discrepant laboratory HIV-1 RNA values and self-reported VL indicate a need to address perceived VL status, especially in the era of treatment as prevention. Most participants were willing to use an at-home DBS kit in the future, signaling an opportunity to engage high-risk MSM in long-term HIV care activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Hirshfield
- Research and Evaluation, Public Health Solutions, New York, NY, United States
| | - Richard A Teran
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Mary Ann Chiasson
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Hong-Van Tieu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Laura Dize
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Charlotte A Gaydos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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27
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Dodds C, Mugweni E, Phillips G, Park C, Young I, Fakoya I, Wayal S, McDaid L, Sachikonye M, Chwaula J, Flowers P, Burns F. Acceptability of HIV self-sampling kits (TINY vial) among people of black African ethnicity in the UK: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:499. [PMID: 29653536 PMCID: PMC5899406 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5256-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing routine HIV testing among key populations is a public health imperative, so improving access to acceptable testing options for those in need is a priority. Despite increasing targeted distribution and uptake of HIV self-sampling kits (SSKs) among men who have sex with men in the UK, little is known about why targeted SSK interventions for black African users are not as wide-spread or well-used. This paper addresses this key gap, offering insight into why some groups may be less likely than others to adopt certain types of SSK interventions in particular contexts. These data were collected during the development phase of a larger study to explore the feasibility and acceptability of targeted distribution of SSKs to black African people. Methods We undertook 6 focus groups with members of the public who self-identified as black African (n = 48), 6 groups with specialists providing HIV and social services to black African people (n = 53), and interviews with HIV specialist consultants and policy-makers (n = 9). Framework analysis was undertaken, using inductive and deductive analysis to develop and check themes. Results We found three valuable components of targeted SSK interventions for this population: the use of settings and technologies that increase choice and autonomy; targeted offers of HIV testing that preserve privacy and do not exacerbate HIV stigma; and ensuring that the specific kit being used (in this case, the TINY vial) is perceived as simple and reliable. Conclusions This unique and rigorous research offers insights into participants’ views on SSK interventions, offering key considerations when targeting this population.. Given the plethora of HIV testing options, our work demonstrates that those commissioning and delivering SSK interventions will need to clarify (for users and providers) how each kit type and intervention design adds value. Most significantly, these findings demonstrate that without a strong locus of control over their own circumstances and personal information, black African people are less likely to feel that they can pursue an HIV test that is safe and secure. Thus, where profound social inequalities persist, so will inequalities in HIV testing uptake – by any means. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-018-5256-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Dodds
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK. .,University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - E Mugweni
- University College London, London, UK
| | - G Phillips
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.,University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - C Park
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - I Young
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.,University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - I Fakoya
- University College London, London, UK
| | - S Wayal
- University College London, London, UK
| | - L McDaid
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - M Sachikonye
- UK Community Advisory Board for HIV and iBase, London, UK
| | | | - P Flowers
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - F Burns
- University College London, London, UK.,Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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28
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Capturing HIV Incidence Among MSM Through At-Home and Self-reported Facility-based Testing. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2018; 75:e142-e144. [PMID: 28277488 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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29
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Tobin K, Edwards C, Flath N, Lee A, Tormohlen K, Gaydos CA. Acceptability and feasibility of a Peer Mentor program to train young Black men who have sex with men to promote HIV and STI home-testing to their social network members. AIDS Care 2018; 30:896-902. [PMID: 29482342 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1442553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) experience persistently high rates of undiagnosed HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and testing rates remain sub-optimal. Home-based testing (HBT) has been found to be acceptable among MSM and while awareness about HBT is relatively high, uptake has been low. Peer-based approaches have been shown to be effective in reducing HIV risk behavior, yet have not been used to increase utilization of HBT. The purpose of this study was to assess acceptability and feasibility of a program to train YBMSM as Peer Mentors to use and promote HIV and STI home-based testing and specimen collection to their social network members. Fifteen YBMSM ages 18-30 completed in-depth structured interviews and were asked to talk with their social network members about home-based testing. Participants reported acceptability of the Peer Mentor role and two-thirds had conversations with diverse social network members (e.g., male and female, sex partners, friends, family). Facilitators of peer outreach included the novelty of home-based testing, confidence about accuracy of the tests, and resources for linkage to care. Barriers included concerns about negative responses and disclosure of sexual identity/behavior. Results of this study suggest that YBMSM are willing and able to promote HBT to their social networks. This is a promising approach to increasing dissemination of HBT kits for both HIV and STI testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Tobin
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Catie Edwards
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Natalie Flath
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Alexandra Lee
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Kayla Tormohlen
- a Department of Health, Behavior and Society , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Charlotte A Gaydos
- b Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
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30
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Freeman AE, Sullivan P, Higa D, Sharma A, MacGowan R, Hirshfield S, Greene GJ, Gravens L, Chavez P, McNaghten AD, Johnson WD, Mustanski B. Perceptions of HIV Self-Testing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States: A Qualitative Analysis. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2018; 30:47-62. [PMID: 29481298 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2018.30.1.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
HIV testing is the gateway into both prevention and treatment services. It is important to understand how men who have sex with men (MSM) perceive HIV self-tests. We conducted focus groups and individual interviews to collect feedback on two HIV self-tests, and on a dried blood spot (DBS) specimen collection kit. Perceptions and attitudes around HIV self-testing (HIVST), and willingness to distribute HIV self-tests to others were assessed. MSM reported HIVST to be complementary to facility-based testing, and liked this approach because it offers privacy and convenience, does not require counseling, and could lead to linkage to care. However, they also had concerns around the accuracy of HIV self-tests, their cost, and receiving a positive test result without immediate access to follow-up services. Despite these issues, they perceived HIVST as a positive addition to their HIV prevention toolbox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arin E Freeman
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Darrel Higa
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Akshay Sharma
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Robin MacGowan
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - George J Greene
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Laura Gravens
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Pollyanna Chavez
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - A D McNaghten
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Wayne D Johnson
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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31
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MacGowan RJ, Chavez PR, Gravens L, Wesolowski LG, Sharma A, McNaghten AD, Freeman A, Sullivan PS, Borkowf CB, Michele Owen S. Pilot Evaluation of the Ability of Men Who Have Sex with Men to Self-Administer Rapid HIV Tests, Prepare Dried Blood Spot Cards, and Interpret Test Results, Atlanta, Georgia, 2013. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:117-126. [PMID: 29058163 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1932-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, an estimated 67% of new HIV diagnoses are among men who have sex with men (MSM), however 25% of HIV-positive MSM in the 2014 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Survey were unaware of their infection. HIV self-testing (HIVST) with rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) may facilitate access to HIV testing. We evaluated the ability of 22 MSM to conduct two HIV RDTs (OraQuick ® In-Home HIV Test and a home-use prototype of Sure Check ® HIV 1/2 Assay), interpret sample images of test results, and collect a dried blood spot (DBS) specimen. While some participants did not follow every direction, most participants were able to conduct HIVST and correctly interpret their results. Interpretation of panels of RDT images was especially difficult when the "control" line was missing, and 27% of DBS cards produced were rated as of bad quality. Modifications to the DBS instructions were necessary prior to evaluating the performance of these tests in real-world settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin J MacGowan
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA.
| | - Pollyanna R Chavez
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | | | - Laura G Wesolowski
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | | | - A D McNaghten
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
- Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Arin Freeman
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | | | - Craig B Borkowf
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | - S Michele Owen
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., (MS E-37), Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
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Shaver J, Sullivan P, Siegler A, de Voux A, Phaswana-Mafuya N, Bekker LG, Baral SD, Wirtz AL, Beyrer C, Brown B, Stephenson R. Comparing Provider and Client Preferences for HIV Prevention Services in South Africa among Men Who Have Sex with Men. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2017; 16:562-571. [PMID: 29108450 DOI: 10.1177/2325957417736611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Combination prevention efforts are now recommended toward reducing HIV incidence among men who have sex with men (MSM). Understanding the perceptions of both MSM and service providers is critical to informing the development of prevention packages and ultimately improving intervention effectiveness. This study assessed the preferences of MSM and health service providers in the administration of HIV-prevention efforts. Qualitative data were gathered from a series of separate MSM and health care provider focus groups in 2 South African cities. Participants discussed HIV-prevention services and MSM client experiences within South Africa and identified the 3 most important clinic characteristics and 3 most important HIV-prevention services for MSM clients. Priorities indicated by both MSM and health care providers were confidentiality of visit, friendly staff, and condoms, while discrepancies existed between MSM and providers regarding provider consistency and the provision of pre-exposure prophylaxis/post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP) and lubricant as prevention methods. Effective interventions must address these discrepancies through the design of intervention and provider training to optimally accommodate MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Shaver
- 1 Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- 2 Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Aaron Siegler
- 2 Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alex de Voux
- 2 Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nancy Phaswana-Mafuya
- 3 HIV/AIDS/STI/and TB (HAST), Human Sciences Research Council, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.,4 Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- 2 Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,5 Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stefan D Baral
- 6 Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrea L Wirtz
- 6 Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- 6 Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ben Brown
- 4 Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - Rob Stephenson
- 1 Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Daniels J, Marlin R, Medline A, Wilson G, Young S, Rosengren L, Huang E, Klausner JD. Getting HIV Self-Test Kits into the Home for Young African American MSM in Los Angeles: A Qualitative Report. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2017; 29:115-119. [PMID: 29239823 DOI: 10.1016/j.jana.2017.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Koblin BA, Nandi V, Hirshfield S, Chiasson MA, Hoover DR, Wilton L, Usher D, Frye V. Informing the Development of a Mobile Phone HIV Testing Intervention: Intentions to Use Specific HIV Testing Approaches Among Young Black Transgender Women and Men Who Have Sex With Men. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2017; 3:e45. [PMID: 28687531 PMCID: PMC5522583 DOI: 10.2196/publichealth.7397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Regular human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing of persons at risk is critical to HIV prevention. Infrequent HIV testing and late diagnosis of HIV infection have been observed among young black men who have sex with men (MSM) and transwomen (transgender women)—two groups overrepresented in the HIV epidemic. Objective The objective of this study was to inform the development of a brief mobile phone intervention to increase HIV testing among young black MSM and transwomen by providing a tailored recommendation of an optimal HIV testing approach. We identified demographic, behavioral, psychosocial, and sociostructural factors associated with intentions to use three specific HIV testing approaches: self-testing, testing at a clinic or other provider, and couples HIV testing and counseling (CHTC). Methods Individuals were eligible for a Web-based survey if they were male at birth; were between the ages of 16 and 29 years; self-identified as black, African American, Caribbean black, African black, or multiethnic black; were not known to be HIV-infected; and reported insertive or receptive anal intercourse with a man or transwoman in the last 12 months. Recruitment occurred via banner advertisements placed on a range of social and sexual networking websites and apps in New York City and nationally, and via events attended by young black MSM and transwomen in New York City. Intention to test by each testing method was analyzed using logistic regression with best subset models and stepwise variable selection. Results Among 169 participants, intention to use a self-test was positively associated with comfort in testing by a friend or a partner at home (Adjusted odds ratio, AOR, 2.40; 95% CI 1.09-5.30), and stigma or fear as a reason not to test (AOR 8.61; 95% CI 2.50-29.68) and negatively associated with higher social support (AOR 0.48; 95% CI 0.33-0.72) and having health insurance (AOR 0.21; 95% CI 0.09-0.54). Intention to test at a clinic or other provider was positively associated with self-efficacy for HIV testing (AOR 2.87; 95% CI 1.48-5.59) and social support (AOR 1.98; 95% CI 1.34-2.92), and negatively associated with a lifetime history of incarceration (AOR 0.37; 95% CI 0.16-0.89). Intention to test by CHTC was negatively associated with higher educational level (Some college or Associate’s degree vs high school graduate or less [AOR 0.81; 95% CI 0.39-1.70]; Bachelor’s degree or more vs high school graduate or less [AOR 0.28; 95% CI 0.11-0.70]). Conclusions Unique factors were associated with intention to test using specific testing approaches. These data will be critical for the development of a tailored intervention that shows promise to increase comfort and experiences with a variety of testing approaches among young black MSM and transwomen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beryl A Koblin
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Vijay Nandi
- New York Blood Center, New York, NY, United States
| | | | | | - Donald R Hoover
- Department of Statistics and Biostatistics, Institute of Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Leo Wilton
- Department of Human Development, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, United States.,Faculty of Humanities, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - DaShawn Usher
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Victoria Frye
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, CUNY School of Medicine, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
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High acceptability of rapid HIV self-testing among a diverse sample of MSM from Buenos Aires, Argentina. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180361. [PMID: 28672037 PMCID: PMC5495397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to explore the acceptability of rapid HIV self-testing (RHST) among men who have sex with men (MSM). METHODS During 2006-2009, a sample of 500 MSM was recruited through Respondent Driven Sampling for an HIV prevalence/incidence study. Attitude toward RHST was explored among HIV negative MSM. Data were weighted prior to analyses. RESULTS Participants reported they were likely to buy RHST (74%), test themselves more frequently than they currently do (77%), and that the procedure would simplify testing (70%). Furthermore, 71% reported they would probably use it alone, 66% would use it with a steady partner, and 56% with a friend/partner. While a majority acknowledged that RHST use would deprive them of receiving counseling (61%), 74% declared they would go for help if they tested positive; 57% would use an RHST in order to avoid condoms. Probability of use surpassed 70% among gay and non-gay identified MSM as well as those with and without a previous HIV test. Those likely to buy RHST were older (p = 0.025) and more likely to identify as gay (p = 0.036). A total of 17% said they would think about killing themselves and 9% would attempt suicide if they tested positive. These MSM were more likely to be younger (p<0.001), with lower mood level (p<0.001) and greater feelings of loneliness (p = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS The high acceptability of RHST found among MSM should encourage the authorities to consider the possibility of offering it for self-testing, as it can improve early diagnosis and prevention of future transmissions. However, further research is needed to understand how to best disseminate RHST among MSM who wish to use it and to offer support and linkage to care for those who test HIV-positive.
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Sharma A, Sullivan SP, Stephenson RB. Detailed Knowledge About HIV Epidemiology and Transmission Dynamics and Their Associations With Preventive and Risk Behaviors Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2017; 3:e11. [PMID: 28264795 PMCID: PMC5359415 DOI: 10.2196/publichealth.7255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in the United States remain disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Yet their testing frequency is suboptimal and condomless anal sex (CAS) is increasing. Behavioral theories posit that information about HIV is a pivotal construct in individual risk reduction. However, measurements of knowledge have traditionally focused on ever hearing about HIV and being aware of the most common routes of spread. Objective Using a national Web-based sample of sexually active GBMSM, we sought to (1) quantify levels of detailed knowledge about HIV epidemiology and transmission dynamics, (2) describe variations in detailed knowledge levels across demographic strata, and (3) evaluate potential associations of increasing levels of detailed knowledge with HIV testing in the past year and engaging in CAS with a male partner in the past 3 months. Methods GBMSM were recruited through a social networking website (Facebook) from August to September 2015 and asked 17 knowledge-based questions pertaining to the following 2 domains using a Web-based survey: HIV epidemiology (9 questions including statistics on incidence, prevalence, and distribution) and HIV transmission dynamics (8 questions including modes of spread and per-act transmission probabilities). Ordinal domain-specific indices of detailed knowledge were created for each respondent by summing their number of correct responses. Separate cumulative logit models were used to identify factors independently associated with each index, and multivariable logistic regression models were used to characterize associations with HIV testing history and recently engaging in CAS. Results Of the 1064 participants in our study, only half (49.62%, 528/1064) had been tested for HIV in the past year, and almost half (47.84%, 509/1064) had engaged in CAS with a male partner in the past 3 months. Majority scored 3 of 9 epidemiology questions correct (26.88%, 286/1064) and 5 of 8 transmission dynamics questions correct (25.00%, 266/1064). Participants younger than 35 years, of non-Hispanic non-white or Hispanic race and ethnicity, with lower educational levels, and who reported a sexual orientation other than homosexual or gay were significantly less knowledgeable about HIV transmission dynamics. Increasing levels of knowledge about this domain were independently associated with testing in the past year (adjusted odds ratio for each additional correct response: 1.10, 95% CI 1.01-1.20) but not with recent CAS. Increasing knowledge about HIV epidemiology was not associated with either outcome. Conclusions Increasing detailed knowledge about HIV epidemiology might not be as important as educating sexually active GBMSM regarding transmission dynamics. Researchers and practitioners designing prevention messages targeting GBMSM should bear in mind that not all knowledge is equal and that some aspects might have a greater positive impact than others. Future research to identify influential content and contemporary modes of delivery is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Sharma
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Stephen P Sullivan
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Rob B Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Keith Branham D, Borders TF, Stewart KE, Curran GM, Booth BM. Acceptability of HIV Testing Sites Among Rural and Urban African Americans Who Use Cocaine. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:576-586. [PMID: 27557985 PMCID: PMC5290213 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1527-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
African Americans (AAs) who use cocaine in the Southern region of the U.S. have a relatively high risk of HIV and need for HIV testing. Among this group, those residing in rural areas may have less favorable opinions about common HIV testing sites, which could inhibit HIV testing. We examined rural/urban variations in their acceptability of multiple HIV testing sites (private physician clinic, local health department, community health center, community HIV fair, hospital emergency department, blood plasma donation center, drug abuse treatment facility, and mobile van or community outreach worker). Results from partial proportional odds and logistic regression analyses indicate that rural AA who use cocaine have lower odds of viewing local health departments (OR = 0.09, 95 % CI = 0.03-0.21), physician offices (OR = 0.19, 95 % CI = 0.09-0.42), and drug use treatment centers (OR = 0.49; 95 % CI = 0.30-0.80) as acceptable relative to their urban counterparts. The findings have implications for further targeting HIV testing toward AAs who use of cocaine, particularly those residing in the rural South.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Keith Branham
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
| | - Tyrone F Borders
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Katharine E Stewart
- Department of Psychology and Provost's Office, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Curran
- Departments of Pharmacy Practice and Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Brenda M Booth
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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Balán I, Frasca T, Ibitoye M, Dolezal C, Carballo-Diéguez A. Fingerprick Versus Oral Swab: Acceptability of Blood-Based Testing Increases If Other STIs Can Be Detected. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:501-504. [PMID: 27439457 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1497-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Self-testing has untapped potential as a strategy to improve access to HIV testing and to increase testing frequency. User acceptability of self-administered oral swab HIV tests is consistently high in both hypothetical and actual-use studies. We explored preferences for oral versus fingerprick HIV self-tests among men who have sex with men with a high risk profile. Participants indicated greater likelihood of using an oral swab over a blood-based test, notwithstanding lower price or quicker results from the latter. However, the likelihood of using an HIV fingerprick test substantially increased if it also offered information on other sexually transmitted infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Balán
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Timothy Frasca
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Mobolaji Ibitoye
- Department of Sociomedical Sciencies, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 West 168 Street, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Curtis Dolezal
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Alex Carballo-Diéguez
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA
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HIV Testing Preferences Among MSM Members of an LGBT Community Organization in Los Angeles. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2017; 28:363-371. [PMID: 28185723 DOI: 10.1016/j.jana.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Lack of regular HIV testing puts African American, Asian, and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) at high risk for HIV infection. Rapid self-testing may be an effective option for these men. We explored acceptability, preferences, and usability of HIV self-test kits with MSM of color using semi-structured focus groups to discuss HIV testing history, reasons for testing, and self-testing preferences. Participants (n = 21) lived in Los Angeles, identified as MSM of color, and were 18-35 years of age. Discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using grounded theory. Participants expressed needs for (a) accessibility, (b) privacy, (c) local support, and (d) access to testing professionals. Self-testing for HIV infection may be an effective method for high-risk MSM. Effective self-testing programs need to consider accessibility, confidentiality, and support to increase routine testing. Community-based organizations have an opportunity to increase HIV testing for MSM of color.
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Ricca AV, Hall EW, Khosropour CM, Sullivan PS. Factors Associated with Returning At-Home Specimen Collection Kits for HIV Testing among Internet-Using Men Who Have Sex with Men. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2016; 15:463-469. [PMID: 27635015 DOI: 10.1177/2325957416668579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, men who have sex with men (MSM) are known to disproportionately have HIV. The authors sought to describe the acceptability of providing at-home dried blood spot specimen collection kits for HIV testing among MSM. METHODS Between August 2010 and December 2010, the authors recruited Internet-using, HIV-negative or -unknown MSM to participate in a 12-month study of behavioral risks. Eligible participants were mailed an at-home HIV test. RESULTS Of the 896 men who were sent a test kit, 735 (82%) returned the kit. Returning a test kit was significantly associated with race (P = .002), highest level of education (P = .012), and annual income (P = .026). The adjusted odds of black, non-Hispanic men returning a test kit were about half of the odds of white, non-Hispanic men returning a test kit (adjusted odds ratios: 0.49; 95% confidence intervals: 0.31-0.78). CONCLUSIONS Men who have sex with men are willing to provide biological specimens as part of an Internet-based HIV prevention study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra V Ricca
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Eric W Hall
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christine M Khosropour
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Huang E, Marlin RW, Young SD, Medline A, Klausner JD. Using Grindr, a Smartphone Social-Networking Application, to Increase HIV Self-Testing Among Black and Latino Men Who Have Sex With Men in Los Angeles, 2014. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2016; 28:341-350. [PMID: 27427928 PMCID: PMC5734054 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2016.28.4.341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In Los Angeles County, about 25% of men who have sex with men (MSM) are HIV-positive but unaware of their status. An advertisement publicizing free HIV self-tests was placed on Grindr, a smartphone social-networking application, from April 17 to May 29, 2014. Users were linked to http://freehivselftests.weebly.com/ to choose a self-test delivery method: U.S. mail, a Walgreens voucher, or from a vending machine. Black or Latino MSM ≥ 18 years old were invited to take a testing experiences survey. During the campaign, the website received 11,939 unique visitors (average: 284 per day) and 334 self-test requests. Among 57 survey respondents, 55 (97%) reported that using the self-test was easy; two persons reported testing HIV positive and both sought medical care. Social networking application self-testing promotion resulted in a large number of self-test requests and has high potential to reach untested high-risk populations who will link to care if they test positive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Huang
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Robert W Marlin
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sean D Young
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Gay and Bisexual Men's Willingness to Use a Self-Collected Anal Cancer Screening Test. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2016; 19:354-61. [PMID: 26083331 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated gay and bisexual men's willingness to self-administer an anal cancer screening test at home. METHODS We conducted 2 national, online cross-sectional surveys of self-identified gay and bisexual men: Study I in 2009 with men ages 20 to 59 (n = 306) and Study II in 2013 with men ages 18 to 26 (n = 428). We used multivariate logistic regression analyses to determine variables associated with willingness to self-administer the screening test. RESULTS Most men were willing to self-administer an anal cancer screening test (78% Study I; 67% Study II). In Study I, willingness was higher among men who trusted anal Paps to find treatable cancer (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.47; 95% CI, 1.04-2.09) and who believed that men who have sex with men should be screened for anal cancer between 1 and 3 years vs. other intervals (aOR = 2.19; 95% CI, 1.17-4.10). In Study II, willingness was higher among men who perceived greater likelihood of anal cancer (aOR = 1.57; 95% CI, 1.12-2.20). Their most common concerns were not performing the test correctly and inaccuracy of results. CONCLUSIONS Many gay and bisexual men were willing to self-administer anal cancer screening tests at home. If routine screening is warranted, self-collected home testing could improve participation.
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Martinez O, Wu E, Levine EC, Muñoz-Laboy M, Fernandez MI, Bass SB, Moya EM, Frasca T, Chavez-Baray S, Icard LD, Ovejero H, Carballo-Diéguez A, Rhodes SD. Integration of Social, Cultural, and Biomedical Strategies into an Existing Couple-Based Behavioral HIV/STI Prevention Intervention: Voices of Latino Male Couples. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0152361. [PMID: 27028873 PMCID: PMC4814093 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0152361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Successful HIV prevention and treatment requires evidence-based approaches that combine biomedical strategies with behavioral interventions that are socially and culturally appropriate for the population or community being prioritized. Although there has been a push for a combination approach, how best to integrate different strategies into existing behavioral HIV prevention interventions remains unclear. The need to develop effective combination approaches is of particular importance for men who have sex with men (MSM), who face a disproportionately high risk of HIV acquisition. MATERIALS AND METHODS We collaborated with Latino male couples and providers to adapt Connect 'n Unite, an evidence-based intervention for Black male couples, for Latino male couples. We conducted a series of three focus groups, each with two cohorts of couples, and one focus group with providers. A purposive stratified sample of 20 couples (N = 40, divided into two cohorts) and 10 providers provided insights into how to adapt and integrate social, cultural, and biomedical approaches in a couples-based HIV/AIDS behavioral intervention. RESULTS The majority (N = 37) of the couple participants had no prior knowledge of the following new biomedical strategies: non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP); pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP); and HIV self-testing kits. After they were introduced to these biomedical interventions, all participants expressed a need for information and empowerment through knowledge and awareness of these interventions. In particular, participants suggested that we provide PrEP and HIV self-testing kits by the middle or end of the intervention. Providers suggested a need to address behavioral, social and structural issues, such as language barriers; and the promotion of client-centered approaches to increase access to, adaptation of, and adherence to biomedical strategies. Corroborating what couple participants suggested, providers agreed that biomedical strategies should be offered after providing information about these tools. Regarding culturally sensitive and responsive approaches, participants identified stigma and discrimination associated with HIV and sexual identity as barriers to care, language barriers and documentation status as further barriers to care, the couple-based approach as ideal to health promotion, and the need to include family topics in the intervention. DISCUSSION We successfully adapted an evidence-based behavioral HIV prevention intervention for Latino male couples. The adapted intervention, called Conectando Latinos en Pareja, integrates social, cultural, behavioral and biomedical strategies to address the HIV epidemic among Latino MSM. The study highlights the promise regarding the feasibility of implementing a combination approach to HIV prevention in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Martinez
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Elwin Wu
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Ethan C. Levine
- College of Liberal Arts, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Miguel Muñoz-Laboy
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - M. Isabel Fernandez
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States of America
| | - Sarah Bauerle Bass
- School of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Eva M. Moya
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, Texas, United States of America
| | - Timothy Frasca
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Silvia Chavez-Baray
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, Texas, United States of America
| | - Larry D. Icard
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Hugo Ovejero
- Lutheran Family Health Centers, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Alex Carballo-Diéguez
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Scott D. Rhodes
- Wake Forest University Medical Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America
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Meyerson BE, Carter G, Lawrence C, Jimison L, Rush N, Carter C, Coleman D, King A, Buckner D, Harvey R, Parker T, Gillespie A, Ohmit A. Expanding HIV Testing in African American Communities Through Community-Based Distribution of Home-Test Vouchers. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2016; 30:141-5. [PMID: 26895115 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2015.0243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the implementation feasibility and effectiveness of community-based HIV home-test voucher distribution in three Indianapolis African American communities. Community-based organizations augmented traditional outreach methods to distribute vouchers for home HIV tests redeemable at three pharmacies during three distribution waves from February to April 30, 2015. Voucher redemption served as a proxy indicator of intent to test for HIV. 315 vouchers were distributed and 47 vouchers were redeemed for a 14.9% redemption rate. Distribution was 46% of plan. Vouchers were redeemed at all three pharmacies, and 21% of visits involved redemption of more than one voucher. The original team of seven distributors in three organizations reduced to a remaining five distributors in two organizations by wave 2. This study suggests that outreach organizations could implement HIV home test voucher distribution, and that people would redeem the vouchers at a pharmacy for an HIV test. Future studies should explore how voucher distribution can expand the current HIV testing system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth E. Meyerson
- Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Department of Applied Health Science, Bloomington, Indiana
- Rural Center for AIDS/STD Prevention, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Gregory Carter
- Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Department of Applied Health Science, Bloomington, Indiana
- Rural Center for AIDS/STD Prevention, Bloomington, Indiana
- Indiana University School of Nursing, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Carrie Lawrence
- Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Department of Applied Health Science, Bloomington, Indiana
- Rural Center for AIDS/STD Prevention, Bloomington, Indiana
| | | | - Nate Rush
- Bethlehem House, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | | | | | - Debra Buckner
- Marion County Health and Hospitals Corporation, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | | | | | - Anita Ohmit
- Indiana Minority Health Coalition, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana
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Grov C, Cain D, Whitfield THF, Rendina HJ, Pawson M, Ventuneac A, Parsons JT. Recruiting a U.S. national sample of HIV-negative gay and bisexual men to complete at-home self-administered HIV/STI testing and surveys: Challenges and Opportunities. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2016; 13:1-21. [PMID: 26858776 PMCID: PMC4743043 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-015-0212-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
We describe enrollment for the One Thousand Strong panel, present characteristics of the panel relative to other large U.S. national studies of gay and bisexual men (GBM), and examine demographic and behavioral characteristics that were associated with passing enrollment milestones. A U.S. national sample of HIV-negative men were enrolled via an established online panel of over 22,000 GBM. Participants (n = 1071) passed three milestones to join our panel. Milestone 1 was screening eligible and providing informed consent. Milestone 2 involved completing an hour-long at-home computer-assisted self-interview (CASI) survey. Milestone 3 involved completing at-home self-administered rapid HIV testing and collecting/returning urine and rectal samples for gonorrhea and chlamydia testing. Compared to those who completed milestones: those not passing milestone 1 were more likely to be non-White and older; those not passing milestone 2 were less likely to have insurance or a primary care physician; and those not passing milestone 3 were less educated, more likely to be bisexual as opposed to gay, more likely to live in the Midwest, had fewer male partners in the past year, and less likely to have tested for HIV in the past year. Effect sizes for significant findings were small. We successfully enrolled a national sample of HIV-negative GBM who completed at-home CASI assessments and at-home self-administered HIV and urine and rectal STI testing. This indicates high feasibility and acceptability of incorporating self-administered biological assays into otherwise fully online studies. Differences in completion of study milestones indicate a need for further investigation into the reasons for lower engagement by certain groups.
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Galisteu KJ, Cardoso LV, Furini AADC, Schiesari Júnior A, Cesarino CB, Franco C, Baptista ARDS, Machado RLD. Opportunistic infections among individuals with HIV-1/AIDS in the highly active antiretroviral therapy era at a Quaternary Level Care Teaching Hospital. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2016; 48:149-56. [PMID: 25992928 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0299-2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this study, clinical-laboratory and epidemiological characteristics are described for a group of 700 individuals with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)/AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) in the ART (antiretroviral therapy) era at a teaching hospital that provides a quaternary level of care, with an emphasis on opportunistic infections (OIs), co-infections and immune profile. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study of AIDS cases was conducted from 1998 to 2008 by reviewing medical records from the Base Hospital/FUNFARME (Fundação Faculdade Regional de Medicina), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil. RESULTS The individuals were 14 to 75 years of age, and 458 were males. Heterosexuals accounted for 31.1% of all patients. Eighty-three percent were on ART, and 33.8% of those presented difficulties with treatment adherence. OIs were analyzed from medical records, and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia was the most prevalent, regardless of the LTCD4+ (TCD4+ Lymphocytes) levels. Individuals whose viral loads were ≥10,000 showed a 90% greater chance of neurotoxoplasmosis. For P. jiroveci pneumonia, neurotoxoplasmosis, esophageal candidiasis, pulmonary tuberculosis and neurocryptococcosis, the chances of infection were higher among patients with LTCD4+ levels below 200 cells/mm3. HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV/hepatitis B virus (HBV) co-infections were significantly associated with death. CONCLUSIONS OIs remain frequent in the ART era even in populations where the access to medical care is considered satisfactory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Jaira Galisteu
- Centro de Investigação de Microrganismos, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciana Ventura Cardoso
- Centro de Investigação de Microrganismos, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana Antônia da Cruz Furini
- Centro de Investigação de Microrganismos, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Claudia Bernardi Cesarino
- Centro de Investigação de Microrganismos, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Célia Franco
- Hospital de Base, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Barriers to HIV testing and characteristics associated with never testing among gay and bisexual men attending sexual health clinics in Sydney. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:20221. [PMID: 26318960 PMCID: PMC4552862 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.1.20221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Revised: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV diagnoses among gay and bisexual men have increased over the past decade in Australia. HIV point-of-care testing (POCT) was introduced in Australia in 2011 as a strategy to increase HIV testing by making the testing process more convenient. We surveyed gay and bisexual men undergoing POCT to assess barriers to HIV testing and characteristics associated with not having previously tested for HIV (never testing). METHODS During 2011 and 2012, gay and bisexual men who were undergoing POCT at four Sydney sexual health clinics self-completed questionnaires assessing testing history and psychological and structural barriers to HIV testing. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to assess associations between patient characteristics and never testing. RESULTS Of 1093 participants, 981 (89.9%) reported ever testing for HIV and 110 (10.1%) never testing. At least one barrier to testing was reported by 1046 men (95.7%), with only 47 men (4.3%) not reporting any barrier to testing. The most commonly reported barriers to testing were annoyance at having to return for results (30.2%), not having done anything risky (29.6%), stress in waiting for results (28.4%), being afraid of testing positive (27.5%) and having tested recently (23.2%). Never testing was independently associated with being non-gay-identified (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1-3.2), being aged less than 25 years (AOR: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.6-3.8), living in a suburb with few gay couples (AOR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.2-3.0), being afraid of testing HIV-positive (AOR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.0-2.4), not knowing where to test (AOR: 3.8; 95% CI: 1.3-11.2) and reporting one or no sexual partners in the last six months (AOR: 2.7; 95% CI: 1.2-6.2). CONCLUSIONS Barriers to HIV testing were commonly reported among the clinic-based gay and bisexual men in this study. Our findings suggest further health promotion and prevention strategies are needed to address the knowledge, attitudes and behavioural factors associated with never testing.
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Conway DP, Guy R, Davies SC, Couldwell DL, McNulty A, Smith DE, Keen P, Cunningham P, Holt M. Rapid HIV Testing Is Highly Acceptable and Preferred among High-Risk Gay And Bisexual Men after Implementation in Sydney Sexual Health Clinics. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0123814. [PMID: 25898140 PMCID: PMC4405382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0123814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rapid HIV testing (RHT) is well established in many countries, but it is new in Australia. We assessed the acceptability of RHT and its associations among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBM) after implementation of RHT in Sydney sexual health clinics. METHODS GBM were invited to complete an acceptability questionnaire before and after provision of the result of finger-prick blood RHT, comparing their experience of RHT with conventional HIV testing (CHT) involving venipuncture. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between patient characteristics and the preference for RHT over CHT next time they tested for HIV. RESULTS Of 1061 GBM who received non-reactive RHT results, 59% found RHT less stressful than CHT and 34% reported no difference, and 61% found RHT more comfortable than CHT and 26% reported no difference. Nearly all men were satisfied with RHT result delivery (99%) and the RHT process overall (99%). Most men (79%) preferred RHT for their next HIV test and this preference was stronger in men who were aged 35-44 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.49, p<0.01), reported they would test more often if RHT was available (AOR 1.66, p=0.01), found returning for results annoying (AOR 1.67, p=0.01), and found RHT less stressful (AOR 2.37, p<0.01) and more comfortable (AOR 1.62, p=0.02) than CHT. Men concerned about the reliability of RHT were less than half as likely to prefer RHT for their next HIV test (AOR 0.44, p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Most GBM preferred RHT to CHT next time and this preference was associated with finding RHT more convenient, more comfortable and less stressful than CHT. These findings suggest that in a clinic setting RHT should be considered to improve the patient experience and may potentially increase uptake and frequency of HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian P. Conway
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Short Street Sexual Health Centre, St George Hospital, Kogarah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Guy
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen C Davies
- North Shore Sexual Health Service, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Deborah L. Couldwell
- Western Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anna McNulty
- Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Sydney Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Don E. Smith
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Albion Centre, Surry Hills, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillip Keen
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Philip Cunningham
- St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- NSW State Reference Laboratory for HIV, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Approval and potential use of over-the-counter HIV self-tests: the opinion of participants in a street based HIV rapid testing program in Spain. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:472-84. [PMID: 25537965 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0975-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
HIV self-testing, not yet available in Spain, is a strategy thought to be able to increase the number of people tested and testing frequency. 3,373 attenders of a street-based HIV rapid-testing program gave their opinion on authorizing over-the-counter self-tests and a potentially shorter lead time if self-tests were available. 88.0 % of participants were in favor of authorization, 9.2 % had no clear opinion and 2.8 % were against. 54.6 % of men who have sex with men (MSM), 38.4 % of men who have sex with women and 36.3 % of women acknowledged a potential for lead time reduction. Potential lead time was associated with being ≥35 years, having a university degree, never injected drugs, previous HIV tests and being concerned about an HIV positive result, and in MSM, also having ≥5 partners. Self-testing seems a promising strategy for Spain: its authorization is supported by nearly all potential users and almost three quarters of MSM would have opted to advance their current testing if self-tests were available.
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Zhao Y, Zhang L, Zhang H, Xia D, Pan SW, Yue H, Lu H, Xing H, He X, Shao Y, Ruan Y. HIV testing and preventive services accessibility among men who have sex with men at high risk of HIV infection in Beijing, China. Medicine (Baltimore) 2015; 94:e534. [PMID: 25674755 PMCID: PMC4602732 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000000534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSM) has been increasing at an alarming rate in most areas of China in recent years. Many Chinese MSM still lack sufficient access to HIV prevention services, despite ongoing scale-up of comprehensive HIV testing and intervention services. The purpose of this study was to investigate utilization of HIV testing and prevention services, and related factors that influence the MSM people to access HIV test or other services to prevent HIV among MSM in Beijing, China.Three successive cross-sectional surveys of MSM were conducted in Beijing from September 2009 to January 2010, September 2010 to January 2011, and September 2011 to January 2012. Demographic and behavioral data were collected and analyzed. Blood samples were tested for HIV and syphilis. Three models were established to analyze factors associated with HIV testing and preventive services.Of the 1312 participants, prevalence of HIV and syphilis was 7.9% and 15.4%, respectively. Sixty-nine percent ever had an HIV test, 56.2%, 78.7%, and 46.1% received HIV test, free condom/lubricants, and sexually transmitted infection services in the past 12 months (P12M), respectively. MSM with larger social networks and who knew someone infected with HIV were more likely to receive HIV testing and preventive services; lower degrees of stigma and discriminatory attitudes toward HIV/AIDS were positively associated with having an HIV test, whereas unprotected anal intercourse in the past 6 months (P6M) was associated with less preventive services participation. The most reported barriers to HIV testing were fear of testing HIV positive (79.3%) and perceiving no risk for HIV (75.4%). Almost all participants felt that ensuring confidentiality would encourage more MSM to have an HIV test. The two main reasons for not seeking HIV test was not knowing where to go for a test (63.2%) and perceiving low risk of HIV infection (55.1%).Given a high prevalence of HIV, syphilis, and risky behaviors and a relatively low HIV testing rate among MSM in Beijing, more efforts are urgently needed to address barriers to HIV testing and improve accessibility of prevention services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuejuan Zhao
- From the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention (YZ, LZ, DX, HY, HL, XH); State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China (HZ, HX, YS, YR); The School of Population and Public Health University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (SWP)
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