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Bazzi AR, Valasek CJ, Stamos-Buesig T, Eger WH, Harvey-Vera A, Vera CF, Syvertsen JL, Storholm ED, Bartholomew TS, Tookes HE, Strathdee SA, Pines HA. Health, harm reduction, and social service providers' perspectives on the appropriateness and feasibility of peer distribution of HIV self-test kits among people who use drugs. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:29. [PMID: 38311717 PMCID: PMC10838430 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00950-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use drugs (PWUD) experience elevated HIV risk and numerous barriers to facility-based HIV testing. HIV self-testing (HIVST) could circumvent many of those barriers and is acceptable among PWUD, yet HIVST implementation for PWUD is limited. Service providers' perspectives on specific HIVST delivery strategies could help increase availability for PWUD. METHODS From April-November 2021, we interviewed 16 health, harm reduction, and social service providers working with PWUD in San Diego, CA. Interviews and rapid thematic analysis explored perspectives on HIVST's utility and appropriateness, as well as the feasibility of and anticipated challenges with specific HIVST delivery strategies, including peer or secondary distribution. RESULTS Participants viewed HIV as a significant threat to PWUD health and confirmed the presence of numerous barriers to local facility-based HIV testing. Participants viewed HIVST as a promising and potentially empowering solution. Based on community familiarity with secondary distribution of harm reduction supplies (i.e., naloxone) and information, participants viewed secondary distribution of HIVST kits as an appropriate and feasible strategy for increasing the reach of HIVST, but also described potential barriers (e.g., engaging socially disconnected individuals, ensuring linkages to services following HIVST) and provided suggestions for alternative HIVST kit delivery models (e.g., harm reduction vending machines). CONCLUSIONS Service providers viewed secondary distribution of HIVST kits among PWUD as promising, appropriate, and feasible, yet specialized efforts may be needed to reach the most marginalized individuals and ensure consistent provision of educational information and referral supports that maximize the impact of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela R Bazzi
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MTF 265E (Mail Code 0725), La Jolla, CA, 92161, USA.
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Chad J Valasek
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - William H Eger
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- School of Social Work, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alicia Harvey-Vera
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Carlos F Vera
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer L Syvertsen
- Department of Anthropology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Erik D Storholm
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, USA
| | | | - Hansel E Tookes
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Heather A Pines
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MTF 265E (Mail Code 0725), La Jolla, CA, 92161, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, USA
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Perazzo H, Castro R, Villela-Nogueira C, Torres M, Silva SL, Cardoso SW, Grinsztejn B, Veloso VG. Acceptability and usability of oral fluid HCV self-testing for hepatitis C diagnosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Viral Hepat 2023; 30:838-847. [PMID: 37485619 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Data on the acceptability and usability of hepatitis C virus self-testing (HCVST) remain scarce. We estimated the pooled rates of acceptability/feasibility and re-reading/re-testing agreement of HCVST using oral fluid tests (PROSPERO-CRD42022349874). We searched online databases for studies that evaluated acceptability, usability and inter-reader/operator variability for HCVST using oral fluid tests. Pooled estimates of feasibility, agreement and post-testing perspectives were analysed. Sensitivity analyses were performed in men who have sex with men (MSM) and people who inject drugs (PWID). Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistics. A total of six studies comprising 870 participants were identified: USA (n = 95 with liver disease), Kenya (n = 150 PWID), Egypt (n = 116 from the general population), Vietnam (n = 104 MSM and n = 105 PWID), China (n = 100 MSM) and Georgia (n = 100 MSM and n = 100 PWID)]. All studies used OraQuick® HCV Rapid Antibody Test. The pooled overall estimates for correct sample collection and for people who performed HCVST without needing assistance in any step (95% confidence interval [CI]) were 87.2% [76.0-95.3] (n = 755; I2 = 93.7%) and 62.6% [37.2-84.8] (n = 755; I2 = 98.0%), respectively. The pooled estimate of agreement for re-reading was 95.0% [95% CI 91.5-97.6] (n = 831; I2 = 74.0%) and for re-testing was 94.4% [90.3-97.5] (n = 726; I2 = 77.1%). The pooled estimate of those who would recommend HCVST was 94.4% [84.7-99.6] (n = 625; I2 = 93.7%). Pooled estimates (95% CI) of correct sample collection (72.8% [63.3-81.5] vs. 90.8% [85.9-94.8]) and performance of HCVST without needing assistance (44.1% [14.1-76.7] vs. 78.1% [53.4-95.3]) was lower in PWID compared to MSM. In summary, HCV testing with oral fluid HCVST was feasible and well-accepted. Oral fluid HCVST should be considered in key populations for uptake HCV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Perazzo
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo Castro
- Sergio Arouca National School of Public Health (ENSP), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Villela-Nogueira
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Clementino Fraga Filho University Hospital (HUCFF), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcos Torres
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Samara Luiza Silva
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sandra W Cardoso
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Grinsztejn
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Valdilea G Veloso
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Norman G, Mason T, Dumville JC, Bower P, Wilson P, Cullum N. Approaches to enabling rapid evaluation of innovations in health and social care: a scoping review of evidence from high-income countries. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e064345. [PMID: 36600433 PMCID: PMC10580278 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic increased the demand for rapid evaluation of innovation in health and social care. Assessment of rapid methodologies is lacking although challenges in ensuring rigour and effective use of resources are known. We mapped reports of rapid evaluations of health and social care innovations, categorised different approaches to rapid evaluation, explored comparative benefits of rapid evaluation, and identified knowledge gaps. DESIGN Scoping review. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, EMBASE and Health Management Information Consortium (HMIC) databases were searched through 13 September 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES We included publications reporting primary research or methods for rapid evaluation of interventions or services in health and social care in high-income countries. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two reviewers developed and piloted a data extraction form. One reviewer extracted data, a second reviewer checked 10% of the studies; disagreements and uncertainty were resolved through consensus. We used narrative synthesis to map different approaches to conducting rapid evaluation. RESULTS We identified 16 759 records and included 162 which met inclusion criteria.We identified four main approaches for rapid evaluation: (1) Using methodology designed specifically for rapid evaluation; (2) Increasing rapidity by doing less or using less time-intensive methodology; (3) Using alternative technologies and/or data to increase speed of existing evaluation method; (4) Adapting part of non-rapid evaluation.The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an increase in publications and some limited changes in identified methods. We found little research comparing rapid and non-rapid evaluation. CONCLUSIONS We found a lack of clarity about what 'rapid evaluation' means but identified some useful preliminary categories. There is a need for clarity and consistency about what constitutes rapid evaluation; consistent terminology in reporting evaluations as rapid; development of specific methodologies for making evaluation more rapid; and assessment of advantages and disadvantages of rapid methodology in terms of rigour, cost and impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gill Norman
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Research and Innovation Division, Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Thomas Mason
- Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Jo C Dumville
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Research and Innovation Division, Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Peter Bower
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Research and Innovation Division, Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
- Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Paul Wilson
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Research and Innovation Division, Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
- Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Nicky Cullum
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work; School of Health Sciences; Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Research and Innovation Division, Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
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Ivanova Reipold E, Fajardo E, Juma E, Bukusi D, Bermudez Aza E, Jamil MS, Johnson CC, Farquhar C, Easterbrook P, Monroe-Wise A. Usability and acceptability of oral fluid hepatitis C self-testing among people who inject drugs in Coastal Kenya: a cross-sectional pilot study. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:738. [PMID: 36109704 PMCID: PMC9479404 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07712-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) are disproportionally affected by hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and many remain undiagnosed. HCV self-testing (HCVST) may be an effective approach to increase testing uptake, but has rarely been used among PWID. We assessed the usability and acceptability of HCVST among PWID in Kenya. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study nested within a cohort study between August and December 2020 on Kenya's North Coast region. Participants were handed a prototype oral fluid HCVST kit and asked to conduct the test relying on the instructions for use. Usability was assessed by documenting errors made and difficulties faced by participants. Acceptability was assessed using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. RESULTS Among 150 participants, 19% were female and 65.3% had primary level education or lower. 71.3% made at least one error, 56.7% experienced some difficulty during at least one step, and the majority of participants (78%) required assistance during at least one step of the procedure. Most common errors occurred when placing the tube into the stand (18%), collecting the oral fluid sample (24%) and timing of reading results (53%). There was a strong association between presence of symptoms of opiate withdrawals and observed errors (94% vs 62%; p = 0.016) in a sub-group of 74 participants assessed. Inter-reader and inter-operator concordance were 97.7% (kappa: 0.92) and 99.2% (kappa: 0.95), respectively. Acceptability assessed by asking whether participants would choose to use HCVST prior to and after conducting HCVST was 98% and 95%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We found a high acceptability of oral fluid HCVST among PWID. User errors were common and were associated with the presence of withdrawal symptoms among users. Despite errors, most participants were able to obtain and interpret results correctly. These findings suggest that this group of users may benefit from greater messaging and education including options to receive direct assistance when self-testing for HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emmanuel Fajardo
- FIND, Campus Biotech, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emily Juma
- VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Bukusi
- VCT and HIV Prevention Unit, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Muhammad S Jamil
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cheryl Case Johnson
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Departments of Global Health, Epidemiology and Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Philippa Easterbrook
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aliza Monroe-Wise
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Shilton S, Stvilia K, Japaridze M, Tsereteli N, Usharidze D, Phevadze S, Jghenti M, Mozalevskis A, Markby J, Luhmann N, Johnson C, Nabeta P, Ongarello S, Reipold EI, Gamkrelidze A. Home-based hepatitis C self-testing in people who inject drugs and men who have sex with men in Georgia: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056243. [PMID: 36691209 PMCID: PMC9462102 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056243] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally, it is estimated that more than three-quarters of people with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) are unaware of their HCV status. HCV self-testing (HCVST) may improve access and uptake of HCV testing particularly among key populations such as people who inject drugs (PWID) and men who have sex with men (MSM) where HCV prevalence and incidence are high and barriers to accessing health services due to stigma and discrimination are common. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This randomised controlled trial compares an online programme offering oral fluid-based HCVST delivered to the home with referral to standard-of-care HCV testing at HCV testing sites. Eligible participants are adults self-identifying as either MSM or PWID who live in Tbilisi or Batumi, Georgia, and whose current HCV status is unknown. Participants will be recruited through an online platform and randomised to one of three arms for MSM (courier delivery, peer delivery and standard-of-care HCV testing (control)) and two for PWID (peer delivery and standard-of-care HCV testing (control)). Participants in the postal delivery group will receive an HCVST kit delivered by an anonymised courier. Participants in the peer delivery groups will schedule delivery of the HCVST by a peer. Control groups will receive information on how to access standard-of-care testing at a testing site. The primary outcome is the number and proportion of participants who report completion of testing. Secondary outcomes include the number and proportion of participants who (a) receive a positive result and are made aware of their status, (b) are referred to and complete HCV RNA confirmatory testing, and (c) start treatment. Acceptability, feasibility, and attitudes around HCV testing and cost will also be evaluated. The target sample size is 1250 participants (250 per arm). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from the National Centers for Disease Control and Public Health Georgia Institutional Review Board (IRB) (IRB# 2021-049). Study results will be disseminated by presentations at conferences and via peer-reviewed journals. Protocol version 1.1; 14 July 2021. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT04961723).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ketevan Stvilia
- National Centre for Disease Control and Public Health of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | | | - Nino Tsereteli
- Center for Information and Counselling on Reproductive Health-Tanadgoma, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Niklas Luhmann
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, WHO Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cheryl Johnson
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, WHO Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Amiran Gamkrelidze
- National Centre for Disease Control and Public Health of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia
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6
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Young J, Ablona A, Klassen BJ, Higgins R, Kim J, Lavoie S, Knight R, Lachowsky NJ. Implementing community-based Dried Blood Spot (DBS) testing for HIV and hepatitis C: a qualitative analysis of key facilitators and ongoing challenges. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1085. [PMID: 35642034 PMCID: PMC9158154 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13525-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In 2018, the Community-Based Research Centre (CBRC) invited gay, bisexual, trans, queer men and Two-Spirit and non-binary people (GBT2Q) at Pride Festivals across Canada to complete in-person Sex Now surveys and provide optional dried blood spot (DBS) samples screening for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). As there is a lack of research evaluating the implementation of DBS sampling for GBT2Q in community settings, we aimed to evaluate this intervention, identifying key facilitators and ongoing challenges to implementing community-based DBS screening for HIV/HCV among GBT2Q. Methods We conducted sixteen one-on-one interviews with individuals involved with the community-based DBS collection protocol, including research staff, site coordinators, and volunteer DBS collectors. Most individuals involved with DBS collection were “peers” (GBT2Q-identified). The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) guided our data collection and analysis. Results Interviewees felt that DBS collection was a low-barrier, cost-effective, and simple way for peers to quickly screen a large number of Sex Now respondents. Interviewees also noted that the community and peer-based aspects of the research helped drive recruitment of Sex Now respondents. Most interviewees felt that the provision of results took too long, and that some Sex Now respondents would have preferred to receive their test results immediately (e.g., rapid or point-of-care testing). Conclusion Peer-based DBS sampling can be an effective and relatively simple way to screen GBT2Q at Pride Festivals for more than one sexually transmitted and blood borne infection. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13525-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Young
- Community-Based Research Centre, 1007-808 Nelson Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2H2, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Aidan Ablona
- Community-Based Research Centre, 1007-808 Nelson Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2H2, Canada
| | - Benjamin J Klassen
- Community-Based Research Centre, 1007-808 Nelson Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2H2, Canada
| | - Rob Higgins
- Community-Based Research Centre, 1007-808 Nelson Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2H2, Canada.,School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - John Kim
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Stephanie Lavoie
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Rod Knight
- British Columbia Centre On Substance Use, Providence Health Care, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 317-2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Nathan J Lachowsky
- Community-Based Research Centre, 1007-808 Nelson Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2H2, Canada. .,School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada.
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Fajardo E, Watson V, Kumwenda M, Usharidze D, Gogochashvili S, Kakhaberi D, Giguashvili A, Johnson CC, Jamil MS, Dacombe R, Stvilia K, Easterbrook P, Ivanova Reipold E. Usability and acceptability of oral-based HCV self-testing among key populations: a mixed-methods evaluation in Tbilisi, Georgia. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:510. [PMID: 35641908 PMCID: PMC9154030 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07484-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus self-testing (HCVST) is an additional approach that may expand access to HCV testing. We conducted a mixed-methods cross-sectional observational study to assess the usability and acceptability of HCVST among people who inject drugs (PWID), men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender (TG) people in Tbilisi, Georgia. METHODS The study was conducted from December 2019 to June 2020 among PWID at one harm reduction site and among MSM/TG at one community-based organization. We used a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. Usability was assessed by observing errors made and difficulties faced by participants. Acceptability was assessed using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. A subset of participants participated in cognitive and in-depth interviews. RESULTS A total of 90 PWID, 84 MSM and 6 TG were observed performing HCVST. PWID were older (median age 35 vs 24) and had a lower level of education compared to MSM/TG (27% vs 59%). The proportion of participants who completed all steps successfully without assistance was 60% among PWID and 80% among MSM/TG. The most common error was in sample collection and this was observed more often among PWID than MSM/TG (21% vs 6%; p = 0.002). More PWID requested assistance during HCVST compared to MSM/TG (22% vs 8%; p = 0.011). Acceptability was high in both groups (98% vs 96%; p = 0.407). Inter-reader agreement was 97% among PWID and 99% among MSM/TG. Qualitative data from cognitive (n = 20) and in-depth interviews (n = 20) was consistent with the quantitative data confirming a high usability and acceptability. CONCLUSIONS HCVST was highly acceptable among key populations in Georgia of relatively high educational level, and most participants performed HCVST correctly. A significant difference in usability was observed among PWID compared to MSM/TG, indicating that PWID may benefit from improved messaging and education as well as options to receive direct assistance when self-testing for HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Fajardo
- grid.452485.a0000 0001 1507 3147The Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Campus Biotech, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Victoria Watson
- grid.48004.380000 0004 1936 9764Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Moses Kumwenda
- grid.419393.50000 0004 8340 2442Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme (MLW), Blantyre, Malawi ,grid.10595.380000 0001 2113 2211College of Medicine, University of Malawi (CoM), Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | | | - David Kakhaberi
- Community-Based Organization Equality Movement, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Ana Giguashvili
- National Centre for Disease Control and Public Health of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Cheryl C. Johnson
- grid.3575.40000000121633745Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Muhammad S. Jamil
- grid.3575.40000000121633745Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Russell Dacombe
- grid.48004.380000 0004 1936 9764Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Ketevan Stvilia
- National Centre for Disease Control and Public Health of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Philippa Easterbrook
- grid.3575.40000000121633745Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Elena Ivanova Reipold
- grid.452485.a0000 0001 1507 3147The Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Campus Biotech, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
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8
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Xu W, Reipold EI, Zhao P, Tang W, Tucker JD, Ong JJ, Wang J, Easterbrook P, Johnson CC, Jamil MS, Wang C. HCV Self-Testing to Expand Testing: A Pilot Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China. Front Public Health 2022; 10:903747. [PMID: 35712303 PMCID: PMC9194083 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.903747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus self-testing (HCVST) may increase test uptake especially among marginalized key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM). We conducted an observational study to assess the usability, acceptability and feasibility of HCVST among MSM in China. Methods An observational study with convenience sampling was performed among MSM in Guangzhou, China in 2019. The OraQuick® HCV Rapid Antibody Test kits were used in this study. Participants performed all 12 HCVST steps and interpreted the results in the presence of a trained observer. Usability was defined as the number and percentage of participants who completed all testing steps correctly without assistance and interpreted the results correctly. Inter-reader concordance was calculated as the percentage agreement between the results interpreted by the participant and those interpreted by a trained staff member. The same process was used to estimate inter-operator agreement between the self-testing and professional use test results. Acceptability was assessed using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Results Among 100 participants with median age 27 (interquartile range 23-30) years, 4% reported prior history of HCV testing, 41% reported using blood-based HIV self-testing in the past, 54% (95%CI: 43.7-64.0%) completed all self-testing steps correctly without assistance and interpreted the results correctly. Both the inter-reader and inter-operator concordance were excellent at 97% (95%CI: 91.5-99.4%) and 98% (95%CI: 93.0-99.8%), respectively. The majority rated the HCVST process as very easy (52%, 95%CI: 41.8-62.1%) or easy (41%, 95%CI: 31.3-51.3%), 76% (95%CI: 66.4-84.0%) were willing to use HCVST again, and 75% (95%CI: 65.3-83.1%) would recommend it to their family and friends. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that oral fluid HCVST has high usability and acceptability among Chinese MSM. More implementation research is needed to plan how best to position and scale-up HCVST alongside other facility-and community-based testing approaches and ensure data linkage into health systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Xu
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STIs Control, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Peizhen Zhao
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STIs Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STIs Control, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Joseph D. Tucker
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Jason J. Ong
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jinshen Wang
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STIs Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Philippa Easterbrook
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis, and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cheryl Case Johnson
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis, and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Muhammad S. Jamil
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis, and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cheng Wang
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STIs Control, Guangzhou, China
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9
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A quasi-randomised controlled trial of online distribution of home-based hepatitis C self-testing for key populations in Malaysia: a study protocol. Trials 2022; 23:304. [PMID: 35413933 PMCID: PMC9003167 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06230-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaysia has an estimated hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence of 1.9% among its adult population and a history of providing HCV treatment in the public sector. In 2019, Malaysia launched a 5-year national strategic plan for viral hepatitis control and has been expanding HCV testing and treatment to the primary care and community levels, while actively engaging key populations in services for hepatitis care. The Ministry of Health (MoH) is seeking to specifically understand how to better target HCV services at men who have sex with men (MSM); HCV self-testing could increase the uptake of HCV testing among this group. Methods We aim to integrate HCV antibody self-testing into an existing online platform used for HIV self-testing, to evaluate the acceptability and impact of an online HCV self-testing programme in Malaysia. This is a non-blinded parallel group quasi-randomised superiority study comparing HCV self-testing via an online distribution model with the standard care, which involves attending a clinic for facility-based HCV antibody testing (control, 2:1). Participants will be randomised to either the HCV self-testing via online distribution arm, in which either an oral fluid- or blood-based HCV self-test kit will be mailed to them, or the control arm, where they will be provided with information about the nearest centre with HCV testing. The primary outcome is the number and proportion of participants who report completion of testing. Secondary outcomes include the number and proportion of participants who (a) receive a positive result and are made aware of their status, (b) are referred to and complete HCV RNA confirmatory testing, and (c) start treatment. Acceptability, feasibility, attitudes around HCV testing, and cost will also be evaluated. The target sample size is 750 participants. Discussion This study is one of the first in the world to explore the real-world impact of HCV self-testing on key populations using online platforms and compare this with standard HCV testing services. The outcomes of this study will provide critical evidence about testing uptake, linkage to care, acceptability, and any social harms that may emerge due to HCV self-testing. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04982718 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-022-06230-y.
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Shilton S, Ali D, Hasnain A, Abid A, Markby J, Jamil MS, Luhmann N, Nabeta P, Ongarello S, Reipold EI, Hamid S. Protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial of secondary distribution of hepatitis C self-testing within the context of a house-to-house hepatitis C micro-elimination programme in Karachi, Pakistan. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:696. [PMID: 35397544 PMCID: PMC8994067 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13125-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, just 21% of the estimated 58 million people living with hepatitis C virus (HCV) know their status. Thus, there is considerable need to scale-up HCV testing if the World Health Organization (WHO) 2030 hepatitis elimination goals are to be achieved. HCV self-testing may assist with this; however, there are currently no data on the real-world impact of HCV self-testing. With an estimated 5% of the general population living with HCV, Pakistan has the second highest HCV burden in the world. This study aims to evaluate the acceptability and impact of home delivery of HCV self-testing for secondary distribution in the context of a house-to-house HCV micro-elimination programme in Pakistan. Methods This is a parallel group, non-blinded, cluster randomised trial comparing secondary distribution of HCV self-testing with secondary distribution of information pamphlets encouraging individuals to visit a testing facility for HCV screening. The cluster allocation ratio is 1:1. Clusters will be randomised either to HCV self-testing distributed via study staff or control clusters where information on HCV will be given and the participant will be requested to attend their local hospital for HCV screening. In both clusters, only households with a member who has not yet been screened as part of the larger micro-elimination project will be included. The primary outcome is the number and proportion of participants who report completion of testing. Secondary outcomes include the number and proportion of participants who a) receive a positive result and are made aware of their status, b) are referred to and complete HCV RNA confirmatory testing, and c) start treatment. Acceptability, feasibility, attitudes towards HCV testing, and cost will also be evaluated. The target sample size is 2,000 participants. Discussion This study will provide the first ever evidence regarding secondary distribution of HCV self-testing. By comparing HCV self-testing with facility-based testing, we will assess whether HCV self-testing increases the uptake of HCV testing. The findings will inform micro-elimination programmes and determine whether HCV self-testing can enable individuals to be reached who may otherwise be missed. Trial Registration This study and was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04971538) 21 July 2021. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13125-9.
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11
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Serumondo J, Shilton S, Nshimiyimana L, Karame P, Dushimiyimana D, Fajardo E, Remera E, Rwibasira GN, Martínez-Pérez GZ. Values and preferences for hepatitis C self-testing among the general population and healthcare workers in Rwanda. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1064. [PMID: 34649503 PMCID: PMC8514804 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06773-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In 2018, Rwanda launched a 5-year hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination plan as per the World Health Organization global targets to eliminate HCV by 2030. To improve awareness of HCV status, strategies are needed to ensure easy access to HCV testing by as-yet unreached populations. HCV-self-testing, an innovative strategy, could further increase HCV testing uptake. This assessment explores perceptions around HCV self-testing among members of the public and healthcare workers in Rwanda. Methods A qualitative study was undertaken in Masaka District Hospital, comprising individual interviews, group interviews and participatory action research (PAR) activities. Purposive and snowball sampling methods guided the selection of informants. Informed consent was obtained from all participants. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the findings. Results The participants comprised 36 members of the public and 36 healthcare workers. Informants appreciated HCV self-testing as an innovative means of increasing access to HCV testing, as well as an opportunity to test privately and subsequently autonomously decide whether to seek further HCV care. Informants further highlighted the need to make HCV self-testing services free of charge at the nearest health facility. Disadvantages identified included the lack of pre/post-test counselling, as well as the potential psychosocial harm which may result from the use of HCV self-testing. Conclusion HCV self-testing is perceived to be an acceptable method to increase HCV testing in Rwanda. Further research is needed to assess the impact of HCV self-testing on HCV cascade of care outcomes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06773-6.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonjelle Shilton
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland.
| | | | | | | | - Emmanuel Fajardo
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eric Remera
- Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Guillermo Z Martínez-Pérez
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Physiatrics and Nursing, University of Saragossa, Zaragoza, Spain
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12
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Martínez-Pérez GZ, Nikitin DS, Bessonova A, Fajardo E, Bessonov S, Shilton S. Values and preferences for hepatitis C self-testing among people who inject drugs in Kyrgyzstan. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:609. [PMID: 34171990 PMCID: PMC8233180 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06332-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) among people who inject drugs (PWID) continues to be a major public-health burden in this highly stigmatised population. To halt transmission of HCV, rapid HCV self-testing kits represent an innovative approach that could enable PWID to know their HCV status and seek treatment. As no HCV test has yet been licenced for self-administration, it is crucial to obtain knowledge around the factors that may deter or foster delivery of HCV self-testing among PWID in resource-constrained countries. METHODS A qualitative study to assess values and preferences relating to HCV self-testing was conducted in mid-2020 among PWID in the Bishkek and Chui regions of Kyrgyzstan. Forty-seven PWID participated in 15 individual interviews, two group interviews (n = 12) and one participatory action-research session (n = 20). Responses were analysed using a thematic analysis approach with 4 predefined themes: awareness of HCV and current HCV testing experiences, and acceptability and service delivery preferences for HCV self-testing. Informants' insights were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. This research received local ethics approval. RESULTS Awareness of HCV is low and currently PWID prefer community-based HCV testing due to stigma encountered in other healthcare settings. HCV self-testing would be accepted and appreciated by PWID. Acceptability may increase if HCV self-testing: was delivered in pharmacies or by harm reduction associations; was free of charge; was oral rather than blood-based; included instructions with images and clear information on the test's accuracy; and was distributed alongside pre- and post-testing counselling with linkage to confirmatory testing support. CONCLUSIONS HCV self-testing could increase awareness of and more frequent testing for HCV infection among PWID in Kyrgyzstan. It is recommended that peer-driven associations are involved in the delivery of any HCV self-testing. Furthermore, efforts should be maximised to end discrimination against PWID at the healthcare institutions responsible for confirmatory HCV testing and treatment provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Z Martínez-Pérez
- Department of Physiatrics and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, Calle Domingo Miral s/n, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Danil S Nikitin
- Global Research Institute Foundation (GLORI), 125 Suyumbaev Street apt 21, 720011, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Alla Bessonova
- Kyrgyz Network of Harm Reduction (KNHR), 21 Yug-2 Microdistrict apt 55, 720052, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Emmanuel Fajardo
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sergei Bessonov
- Kyrgyz Network of Harm Reduction (KNHR), 21 Yug-2 Microdistrict apt 55, 720052, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Sonjelle Shilton
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland.
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13
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Reipold EI, Farahat A, Elbeeh A, Soliman R, Aza EB, Jamil MS, Johnson CC, Shiha G, Easterbrook P. Usability and acceptability of self-testing for hepatitis C virus infection among the general population in the Nile Delta region of Egypt. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1188. [PMID: 34158006 PMCID: PMC8218412 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11169-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Self-testing for hepatitis C virus antibodies (HCVST) may be an additional strategy to expand access to hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing and support elimination efforts. We conducted a study to assess the usability and acceptability of HCVST among the general population in a semi-rural, high-HCV prevalence region in Egypt. Methods An observational study was conducted in two hospitals in the Nile Delta region. A trained provider gave an in-person demonstration on how to use the oral fluid HCVST followed by observation of the participant performing the test. Usability was assessed by observing errors made and difficulties faced by participants. Acceptability of HCV self-testing was assessed using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Results Of 116 participants enrolled, 17 (14.6%) had received no formal education. The majority (72%) of participants completed all testing steps without any assistance and interpreted the test results correctly. Agreement between participant-reported HCVST results and interpretation by a trained user was 86%, with a Cohen’s kappa of 0.6. Agreement between participant-reported HCVST results and provider-administered oral fluid HCV rapid test results was 97.2%, with a Cohen’s kappa of 0.75. The majority of participants rated the HCVST process as easy (53%) or very easy (44%), and 96% indicated they would be willing to use HCVST again and recommend it to their family and friends. Conclusion Our study demonstrates the high usability and acceptability of oral fluid HCVST in a general population. Further studies are needed to establish the optimal positioning of self-testing alongside facility-based testing to expand access to HCV diagnosis in both general and high-risk populations. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-11169-x.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmed Farahat
- Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Amira Elbeeh
- Association of Liver Patient Care (ALPC), Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Reham Soliman
- Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Mansoura, Egypt.,Tropical Medicine Department, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| | | | - Muhammad S Jamil
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cheryl Case Johnson
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gamal Shiha
- Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Mansoura, Egypt.,Internal Medicine Department, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Philippa Easterbrook
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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14
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Self-testing for HIV, HBV, and HCV using finger-stick whole-blood multiplex immunochromatographic rapid test: A pilot feasibility study in sub-Saharan Africa. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249701. [PMID: 33836036 PMCID: PMC8034751 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The burden of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections remains disproportionately high in sub-Saharan Africa, with high rates of co-infections. Multiplex rapid diagnostic tests for HIV, HBV and HCV serological testing with high analytical performances may improve the “cascade of screening” and quite possibly the linkage-to-care with reduced cost. Based on our previous field experience of HIV self-testing, we herein aimed at evaluating the practicability and acceptability of a prototype finger-stick whole-blood Triplex HIV/HCV/HBsAg self-test as a simultaneous serological screening tool for HIV, HBV, and HCV in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methods A cross-sectional multicentric study consisting of face-to-face, paper-based, and semi-structured questionnaires with a home-based and facility-based recruitment of untrained adult volunteers at risk of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections recruited from the general public was conducted in 2020 in urban and rural areas in the DRC. The practicability of the Triplex self-test was assessed by 3 substudies on the observation of self-test manipulation including the understanding of the instructions for use (IFU), on the interpretation of Triplex self-test results and on its acceptability. Results A total of 251 volunteers (mean age, 28 years; range, 18–49; 154 males) were included, from urban [160 (63.7%)] and rural [91 (36.3%)] areas. Overall, 242 (96.4%) participants performed the Triplex self-test and succeeded in obtaining a valid test result with an overall usability index of 89.2%. The correct use of the Triplex self-test was higher in urban areas than rural areas (51.2% versus 16.5%; aOR: 6.9). The use of video IFU in addition to paper-based IFU increased the correct manipulation and interpretation of the Triplex self-test. A total of 197 (78.5%) participants correctly interpreted the Triplex self-test results, whereas 54 (21.5%) misinterpreted their results, mainly the positive test results harboring low-intensity band (30/251; 12.0%), and preferentially the HBsAg band (12/44; 27.3%). The rates of acceptability of reuse, distribution of the Triplex self-test to third parties (partner, friend, or family member), linkage to the health care facility for confirmation of results and treatment, and confidence in the self-test results were very high, especially among participants from urban areas. Conclusions This pilot study shows evidence for the first time in sub-Saharan Africa on good practicability and high acceptability of a prototype Triplex HIV/HCV/HBsAg self-test for simultaneous diagnosis of three highly prevalent chronic viral infections, providing the rational basis of using self-test harboring four bands of interest, i.e. the control, HIV, HCV, and HBsAg bands. The relatively frequent misinterpretation of the Triplex self-test points however the necessity to improve the delivery of this prototype Triplex self-test probably in a supervised setting. Finally, these observations lay the foundations for the potential large-scale use of the Triplex self-test in populations living in sub-Saharan Africa at high risk for HIV, HBV, and HCV infections.
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15
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Bajis S, Applegate TL, Grebely J, Matthews GV, Dore GJ. Novel Hepatitic C Virus (HCV) Diagnosis and Treatment Delivery Systems: Facilitating HCV Elimination by Thinking Outside the Clinic. J Infect Dis 2021; 222:S758-S772. [PMID: 33245354 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization has set a goal to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection as public health threat by 2030. Although the advent of highly effective and tolerable direct-acting antiviral therapy has paved the way for HCV elimination, most people with HCV infection remain undiagnosed and untreated globally, with striking disparities between high-income and low- to middle-income countries. Novel decentralized and cost-effective "test-and-treat" strategies are critically needed to identify the millions of people unaware of their status and link them to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tanya L Applegate
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gail V Matthews
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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16
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Galatas B, Nhantumbo H, Soares R, Djive H, Murato I, Simone W, Macete E, Rabinovich NR, Alonso P, Candrinho B, Saúte F, Aide P, Munguambe K. Community acceptability to antimalarial mass drug administrations in Magude district, Southern Mozambique: A mixed methods study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249080. [PMID: 33755685 PMCID: PMC7987150 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to capture the acceptability prior to, during and after the implementation of the first year of MDA rounds conducted under the Magude project, a malaria elimination project in southern Mozambique. Methods This was a mixed-methods study, consisting of focus group discussions (FGDs) prior to the implementation of MDA rounds (September 2015), non-participant observations (NPOs) conducted during the MDA rounds (November 2015 –beginning of February 2016), and semi-structured interviews (SSIs) after the second round (end of February 2016). Community leaders, women in reproductive age, general members of the community, traditional healers and health professionals were recruited to capture the opinions of all representing key members of the community. A generic outline of nodes and codes was designed to analyze FGDs and SSI separately. Qualitative and quantitative NPO information was analyzed following a content analysis approach. Findings 222 participants took part in the FGDs (n = 154), and SSIs (n = 68); and 318 household visits during the MDA underwent NPOs. The community engagement campaign emerged throughout the study stages as a crucial factor for the acceptability of MDAs. Acceptability was also fostered by the community’s general will to cooperate in any government-led activity that would reduce malaria burden, the appropriate behavior and knowledge of field workers, or the fact that the intervention was available free of charge to all. Absenteeism of heads of households was identified as the main barrier for the success of the campaign. The most commonly reported factors that negatively affected acceptability were the fear of adverse events, rumors of deaths, being unable to drink alcohol while taking DHAp, or the fear to take DHAp while in anti-retroviral treatment. Pregnancy testing and malaria testing were generally well accepted by the community. Conclusion Magude’s community generally accepted the first and second antimalarial MDA rounds, and the procedures associated to the intervention. Future implementation of antimalarial MDAs in southern Mozambique should focus on locally adapted strategies that engage the community to minimize absenteeism and refusals to the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Galatas
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Rodolfo Soares
- Center for International Studies (CEI-IUL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Helder Djive
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Ilda Murato
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Wilson Simone
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Eusebio Macete
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- National Directorate of Health, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - N. Regina Rabinovich
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Pedro Alonso
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Baltazar Candrinho
- National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP), Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Francisco Saúte
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Pedro Aide
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- National Institute of Health, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Khátia Munguambe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM), Maputo, Mozambique
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A Lay-User Assessment of Hepatitis C Virus Self-Testing Device Usability and Interpretation in Johannesburg, South Africa. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11030463. [PMID: 33800060 PMCID: PMC8000311 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11030463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Only 20% of people with hepatitis C virus (HCV) know their status. In low-income countries diagnosis is under 10%. Self-testing for HCV antibodies (HCVST) could expand the coverage of HCV testing services. Currently, there are no stringent regulatory authority (SRA) approved HCVSTs, therefore lay-user usability of three prototype kits was assessed. This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted with 171 (CareStart n = 60, Bioline n = 52, First Response n = 59) participants. Participants were given one of the three HCVST kits with only instructions for use (IFU) and asked to perform the test in front of a professional trained in rapid diagnostic tests (RDT). Usability indices were calculated based on the correctness of performing each step of the product-specific process followed by contrived results interpretation and a post-test interview. The usability index was 93.9% for CareStart, 90.7% for Bioline and 94.9% for First Response. Most errors were on incorrect handwashing, sample collection and transfer to the test device. An average of 93.1% of contrived results were correctly interpreted, with most errors related to interpreting invalid results. Most participants (n = 167) stated they would visit a clinic after a positive result. With negative results, nearly half (28/60 (46.7%)) stated they should condomize, while just over two-thirds of participants that used Bioline (35/52 (67.3%)) and First Response (38/59 (64.4%)) said they should re-test. Most participants (n = 162) found the devices easy to use. Participants liked that self-testing was fast, private and convenient, however there were some confusion with IFU steps and pictures, finger-pricking with the lancet, collecting blood after the finger-prick, and transferring the sample/buffer. Prototype HCVST kits exhibit high usability and result interpretation by lay-users, and should be considered for SRA approval.
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Acceptability and Usability of HCV Self-Testing in High Risk Populations in Vietnam. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020377. [PMID: 33672241 PMCID: PMC7926709 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV self-testing has emerged as a safe and effective approach to increase the access to and uptake of HIV testing and treatment, especially for key populations. Applying self-testing to hepatitis C virus (HCV) may also offer an additional way to address low coverage of HCV testing and to accelerate elimination efforts. To understand the potential for HCV self-testing (HCVST), an observational study was conducted to assess the acceptability and usability of the OraQuick® HCV Self-Test (prototype) among people who inject drugs (PWID) and men who have sex with men (MSM) in Thai Nguyen, a province in northern Vietnam. A total of 105 PWID and 104 MSM were eligible and agreed to participate in the study. Acceptability, defined as the proportion of participants among eligible subjects who agreed to participate in the study, was 92.9% in PWID and 98.6% in MSM. Compared to MSM, PWID were older (median age: 45 vs. 22 years; p < 0.0001) and had a lower education level (high school and college: 38.1% vs. 100%; p < 0.0001). HCVST usability was high among MSM with fewer observed mistakes, difficulties, or participants requiring assistance (33.7%, 28.8%, and 17.3%, respectively) compared to PWID (62.9%, 53.3%, and 66.7%, respectively; all p < 0.0001)). Inter-reader and inter-operator agreement were good in both groups (Kappa coefficient range: 0.61–0.99). However, the concordance between HCVST and study staff -read or performed HCV testing was lower among PWID than MSM (inter-reader concordance 88.6% vs. 99.0% and inter-operator concordance 81.9% vs. 99%). Overall, HCVST was highly acceptable with moderate to high usability among PWID and MSM in Thai Nguyen. Efforts to provide support and assistance may be needed to optimize performance, particularly for PWID populations and for those who are older and with lower literacy or education levels.
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Lanièce Delaunay C, Greenwald ZR, Minoyan N, Artenie AA, Jeong D, Marathe G, Saeed YA, Kolla G, Kunden RD, Okwor CIA, Wallace HL, Mendlowitz A, Liu CH, Mazouz S, D’souza S, Perciani CT, Rheault M, Palmer MA, Palayew A, Abdelnabi MN, Cunningham EB. Striving toward hepatitis C elimination in the era of COVID-19. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2021; 4:4-7. [DOI: 10.3138/canlivj-2020-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Lanièce Delaunay
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Zoë R Greenwald
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nanor Minoyan
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Dahn Jeong
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gayatri Marathe
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yasmin A Saeed
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gillian Kolla
- Canadian Centre for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rasika D Kunden
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | | | - Hannah L Wallace
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Andrew Mendlowitz
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Toronto Health Economics and Technology Assessment (THETA) Collaborative, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ching-Hsuan Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sabrina Mazouz
- Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Simmone D’souza
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Catia Taniela Perciani
- Soham and Shaila Ajmera Family Transplant Centre, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marylin Rheault
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael A Palmer
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Adam Palayew
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mohamed N Abdelnabi
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Evan B Cunningham
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Glenister K, Kemp W, Tomic D, Simmons D, Roberts S. Prevalence of Hepatitis C and treatment uptake in regional Victoria. Aust N Z J Public Health 2020; 44:514-516. [PMID: 33252814 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in regional Victoria and assess amenability to treatment. METHODS Households were randomly selected and one adult from each was invited to a 'clinic', which included HCV, liver function and liver stiffness/fibrosis tests. Participants reactive to HCV were asked about their amenability to treatment. RESULTS The study identified eight cases of HCV (antibody and PCR reactive, 1.1%) among 748 participants, half of which were new diagnoses. Most of the HCV-reactive participants were male (89%). Liver function and fibrosis were not significantly different between HCV-reactive and non-reactive participants. Most participants notified of their HCV were amenable to treatment. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of HCV in this regional Victorian study (1.1%) was similar to the Australian modelled prevalence estimates. Most participants were amenable to treatment. Implications for public health: The unique opportunity to eliminate HCV requires a reorientation of the public health response toward systematic implementation of treatment to address barriers and reduce stigma and discrimination for marginalised populations. This should include targeting regional areas where the HCV prevalence of undiagnosed cases may be higher than metropolitan areas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - David Simmons
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, New South Wales
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