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Thurman TR, Luckett B, Zani B, Nice J, Taylor TM. Can Support Groups Improve Treatment Adherence and Reduce Sexual Risk Behavior among Young People Living with HIV? Results from a Cohort Study in South Africa. Trop Med Infect Dis 2024; 9:162. [PMID: 39058204 PMCID: PMC11281618 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed9070162] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa experience poorer HIV outcomes than adults, including lower ART adherence and virologic suppression. They also have high rates of unprotected sex, increasing the risk of adverse sexual health outcomes and onward transmission. This one-arm, pre-post study investigates a structured 14-session support group aiming to boost treatment adherence and sexual protective behavior for AYLHIV in South Africa. Logistic and Poisson regression analyses were performed on self-reported pre- and post-intervention survey data collected approximately 7.5 months apart from a cohort of 548 AYLHIV. Participants were significantly more likely to report at least 95% adherence at follow-up and rate their health as "good;" they also demonstrated greater treatment knowledge and had fewer absences from school overall and due to illness. Among sexually active AYLHIV, contraception use at last sex increased significantly, while condom use did not. Effects were small, and greater programmatic emphasis on adherence and multifaceted service packages is likely necessary to promote viral suppression. Nonetheless, the intervention addresses an important gap in service provision for AYLHIV in South Africa. Findings denote the potential for incorporating care and treatment components into sexual and reproductive health interventions tailored for AYLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonya R. Thurman
- Tulane International, Cape Town 7806, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Brian Luckett
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Babalwa Zani
- Tulane International, Cape Town 7806, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Johanna Nice
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Tory M. Taylor
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA;
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Zani B, Luckett B, Thurman TR. COVID-19 pandemic stressors, familial discord, and anxiety among adolescents living with HIV in South Africa: pathways to non-adherence. AIDS Care 2024; 36:137-144. [PMID: 38301123 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2308025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) have poorer adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART). This study investigates the interconnectivity of stressors induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, anxiety and family dynamics on adolescents' adherence to ART. A telephone survey was conducted among 196 South African ALHIV previously enrolled in support groups. Generalized structural equations modeling was used to understand how pandemic-related stressors affected ART adherence. Respondents reported experiencing life stressors since the implementation of COVID-19 restrictions, including doing worse at school (32%), loss of household income (44%) and less food available (38%). Forty-two percent reported greater verbal aggression from adults at home and 60% experienced anxiety. The structural equations model demonstrated a direct path from experiencing life stressors to increased verbal aggression from caregivers, which led to anxiety and ultimately, poorer ART adherence. Each stressor experienced increased the odds of experiencing verbal aggression by 51% (OR=1.51, 95%CI=1.14-2.00) which, in turn, increased the odds of having anxiety four-fold (OR=4.1, 95%C =2.16-7.76). Anxiety was associated with a 74% reduction in the odds of being fully ART adherent (OR=0.26, 95%CI=0.08-0.81). COVID-19-induced stressors exacerbated the mental and physical vulnerability of ALHIV. Findings elucidate how both discord at home and anxiety can result in poorer ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babalwa Zani
- Tulane International, Cape Town, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brian Luckett
- Tulane International, Cape Town, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tonya R Thurman
- Tulane International, Cape Town, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
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Kimani M, Molyneux S, Charo A, Zakayo SM, Sanga G, Njeru R, Davies A, Kelley M, Abubakar A, Marsh V. Layered vulnerability and researchers' responsibilities: learning from research involving Kenyan adolescents living with perinatal HIV infection. BMC Med Ethics 2024; 25:21. [PMID: 38378641 PMCID: PMC10877892 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-023-00972-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carefully planned research is critical to developing policies and interventions that counter physical, psychological and social challenges faced by young people living with HIV/AIDS, without increasing burdens. Such studies, however, must navigate a 'vulnerability paradox', since including potentially vulnerable groups also risks unintentionally worsening their situation. Through embedded social science research, linked to a cohort study involving Adolescents Living with HIV/AIDS (ALH) in Kenya, we develop an account of researchers' responsibilities towards young people, incorporating concepts of vulnerability, resilience, and agency as 'interacting layers'. METHODS Using a qualitative, iterative approach across three linked data collection phases including interviews, group discussions, observations and a participatory workshop, we explored stakeholders' perspectives on vulnerability and resilience of young people living with HIV/AIDS, in relation to home and community, school, health care and health research participation. A total of 62 policy, provider, research, and community-based stakeholders were involved, including 27 ALH participating in a longitudinal cohort study. Data analysis drew on a Framework Analysis approach; ethical analysis adapts Luna's layered account of vulnerability. RESULTS ALH experienced forms of vulnerability and resilience in their daily lives in which socioeconomic context, institutional policies, organisational systems and interpersonal relations were key, interrelated influences. Anticipated and experienced forms of stigma and discrimination in schools, health clinics and communities were linked to actions undermining ART adherence, worsening physical and mental health, and poor educational outcomes, indicating cascading forms of vulnerability, resulting in worsened vulnerabilities. Positive inputs within and across sectors could build resilience, improve outcomes, and support positive research experiences. CONCLUSIONS The most serious forms of vulnerability faced by ALH in the cohort study were related to structural, inter-sectoral influences, unrelated to study participation and underscored by constraints to their agency. Vulnerabilities, including cascading forms, were potentially responsive to policy-based and interpersonal actions. Stakeholder engagement supported cohort design and implementation, building privacy, stakeholder understanding, interpersonal relations and ancillary care policies. Structural forms of vulnerability underscore researchers' responsibilities to work within multi-sectoral partnerships to plan and implement studies involving ALH, share findings in a timely way and contribute to policies addressing known causes of vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Kimani
- Kenya Medical Research Institute Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Sassy Molyneux
- Kenya Medical Research Institute Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.
- Health Systems Collaborative, Centre for Global Health Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Anderson Charo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Scholastica M Zakayo
- Ethox Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Gladys Sanga
- Kenya Medical Research Institute Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Rita Njeru
- Ethox Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Alun Davies
- Kenya Medical Research Institute Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Health Systems Collaborative, Centre for Global Health Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Maureen Kelley
- Ethox Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Aga Khan University, Institute for Human Development, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Vicki Marsh
- Kenya Medical Research Institute Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Centre for Global Health Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Biology, 3 South Parks Road, Oxford, OX13SY, UK
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Mudra Rakshasa-Loots A, van Wyhe KS, Naidoo S, Daizana N, Laughton B, Boyana T. Taking lead from the community: What do young people living with HIV want us to research? PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002605. [PMID: 38079383 PMCID: PMC10712858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Priority setting workshops enable researchers to take the lead from people with relevant lived experience, and design research which authentically responds to community needs. Large-scale global priority setting exercises have previously identified key research questions related to paediatric and adolescent HIV treatment, prevention, and service delivery. However, priority setting workshops focused on the needs of young people living with HIV are lacking in southern Africa. Here, we report the outcome of a priority setting workshop organised in Cape Town, South Africa with 19 young people living with HIV and their parents and caregivers. Workshops were facilitated by trained research and clinical staff, who provided a plain-language introduction to research questions for the attendees. During the day-long workshop, attendees developed a list of research questions concerning HIV-related physical health, mental health, and psychosocial support and later voted on the order of importance for the questions which they had collectively identified. Facilitators did not prompt any questions or amend the phrasing of questions generated by the attendees. A cure for HIV was highlighted as the most important research priority for young people living with HIV. Other priorities for young people included the effects of antiretroviral therapy on the body, the brain, and their social relationships, causes of emotional issues such as depression and mood swings, and potential interventions to reduce HIV-related stigma in schools through positive education for teachers and students. Research priorities for parents and caregivers included improving antiretroviral adherence through long-acting injections, mental health impacts of HIV status disclosure without consent, and improving support provided by local community clinics. The research questions identified through this workshop may be used by researchers to develop future studies which truly benefit young people living with HIV in South Africa and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arish Mudra Rakshasa-Loots
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Edinburgh Neuroscience, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kaylee S. van Wyhe
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- ACSENT Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Shalena Naidoo
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ntuthu Daizana
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Barbara Laughton
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tembela Boyana
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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McCann NC, Stanic T, Penazzato M, Flanagan CF, Abrams EJ, Dugdale CM, Johnson LF, Neilan AM, Davies M, Freedberg KA, Fassinou P, Doherty M, Essajee S, Mushavi A, Soeteman DI, Ciaranello AL. Prevalence of undiagnosed HIV among children in South Africa, Côte d'Ivoire and Zimbabwe: a model-based analysis to inform paediatric HIV screening programmes. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e26045. [PMID: 36519674 PMCID: PMC9753158 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To improve the diagnosis and survival of children living with HIV (CLWH), the World Health Organization recommends testing approaches beyond traditional infant HIV testing programmes. Information about undiagnosed HIV prevalence among children of varying ages in the general population is needed to guide innovative national/subnational case-finding and testing approaches. METHODS We used the Cost-Effectiveness of Preventing AIDS Complications (CEPAC)-Pediatric model to estimate the prevalence of undiagnosed HIV in 2-, 5- and 10-year-old children in South Africa, Côte d'Ivoire and Zimbabwe in 2018. We simulated cohorts of children born in 2008 (10-year-olds), 2013 (5-year-olds) and 2016 (2-year-olds). Country-/year-specific inputs for pregnant/breastfeeding women included: HIV prevalence (4.2-32.3%), HIV incidence (0.03-0.24%/month), knowledge of HIV status (27-89%) and antiretroviral drug coverage (36-95%). Paediatric inputs included early infant testing coverage (6-95%) and breastfeeding duration (0-20 months). We projected the proportion of surviving CLWH in whom HIV remained undiagnosed and the undiagnosed HIV prevalence among surviving children of each age in the general population. For children born in 2016, we projected survival and diagnosis of all CLWH through 2026. We conducted sensitivity analyses on model parameters. RESULTS In 2018, the projected proportion of surviving CLWH whose HIV remained undiagnosed in South Africa/Côte d'Ivoire/Zimbabwe was 44.2%/55.8%/52.9% among 2-year-old CLWH; 29.0%/37.8%/33.2% among 5-year-old CLWH; and 18.3%/25.4%/23.1% among 10-year-old CLWH. Projected general population undiagnosed HIV prevalence in South Africa/Côte d'Ivoire/Zimbabwe was 0.44%/0.32%/0.68% among 2-year-olds; 0.25%/0.17%/0.41% among 5-year-olds; and 0.24%/0.14%/0.38% among 10-year-olds. Among all CLWH born in 2016, 50-54% were projected to die without HIV diagnosis (and subsequently without treatment) within 10 years after birth; 80-85% of these deaths occurred in the first 2 years. CONCLUSIONS Projected population-level undiagnosed HIV prevalence is low and sharply decreases after age 2, with more CLWH dying than being diagnosed. Despite low undiagnosed prevalence in the general population of older children, we project that a large proportion of CLWH remain undiagnosed, suggesting that innovative strategies targeting untested children of all ages outside of health facility settings should be prioritized. Programmes could consider routine testing of the general population of children below 2 in all settings and children of all ages in high-prevalence settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole C. McCann
- Medical Practice Evaluation CenterDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Tijana Stanic
- Medical Practice Evaluation CenterDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Martina Penazzato
- Global HIVHepatitis and STI ProgrammeWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Clare F. Flanagan
- Medical Practice Evaluation CenterDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Elaine J. Abrams
- ICAP at Columbia UniversityMailman School of Public HealthColumbia UniversityNew YorkUSA,Department of PediatricsVagellos College of Physicians and SurgeonsColumbia UniversityNew YorkUSA
| | - Caitlin M. Dugdale
- Medical Practice Evaluation CenterDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Leigh F. Johnson
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public Health and Family MedicineFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Anne M. Neilan
- Medical Practice Evaluation CenterDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Division of Pediatric Outcomes ResearchMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Mary‐Ann Davies
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and ResearchSchool of Public Health and Family MedicineFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Kenneth A. Freedberg
- Medical Practice Evaluation CenterDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Division of General Internal MedicineDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Harvard University Center for AIDS ResearchBostonMassachusettsUSA,Department of Health Policy and ManagementHarvard School of Public HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Meg Doherty
- Global HIVHepatitis and STI ProgrammeWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | | | | | - Djøra I. Soeteman
- Medical Practice Evaluation CenterDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Center for Health Decision ScienceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Andrea L. Ciaranello
- Medical Practice Evaluation CenterDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Harvard University Center for AIDS ResearchBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Sevenoaks T, Fouche JP, Mtukushe B, Phillips N, Heany S, Myer L, Zar HJ, Stein DJ, Hoare J. A longitudinal and qualitative analysis of caregiver depression and quality of life in the Cape Town adolescent antiretroviral cohort. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2022.100396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
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Leshargie CT, Demant D, Burrowes S, Frawley J. Incidence and predictors of mortality among adolescents on antiretroviral therapy in Amhara Region, Ethiopia: a retrospective cohort analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063879. [PMID: 36351711 PMCID: PMC9664312 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the incidence and predictors of mortality in adolescents receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Ethiopia's Amhara Region. DESIGN We conducted an institution-based retrospective follow-up study. SETTINGS The study was conducted at Amhara Region's comprehensive specialised hospitals in Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS We included 961 randomly selected medical records of adolescents receiving ART between January 2005 and June 2020. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES The incidence of mortality since ART treatment initiation served as the primary outcome, and predictors of mortality served as secondary outcomes. We used Cox proportional hazard regression to examine the relationship between mortality and its predictors. Variables with p values<0.05 in the multivariable analysis were considered statistically significant mortality predictors. Adjusted HR (aHR) with 95% CI was used to measure the strength of association. RESULTS More than half (n=496, 53.5%) of the adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) were girls. The adolescent mortality rate was 1.52 (95% CI: 1.04 to 1.53) per 100 person-years throughout the follow-up period of 81 583 adolescent months. Mortality was higher for ALHIV who had not received formal education (aHR: 3.27, 95% CI: 1.36 to 7.87), had widowed parents (aHR: 1.85, CI: 95% 1.01 to 3.56) or received no social support (aHR: 2.81, 95% CI: 1.69 to 4.67). Adolescents who had opportunistic infections (OIs) at ART initiation (aHR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.19 to 3.14), low haemoglobin (Hgb/g/l) levels (aHR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.08 to 4.18), a bedridden functional status (aHR: 3.11, 95% CI: 1.64 to 5.72), stage IV clinical staging (aHR: 3.03, 95% CI: 1.46 to 6.30), non-disclosing status (aHR: 2.24, 95% CI:1.36 to 3.69) and CD4 count 200-350 cells/mm3 (aHR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.08 to 4.18) also had a higher risk of death. Not receiving cotrimoxazole preventive therapy (aHR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.07 to 3.22) and poor adherence to ART (aHR: 2.24, 95% CI: 1.27 to 3.95), compared with adherent, was associated with higher mortality risk. Changed treatment regimens were associated with lower mortality (aHR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.35 to 0.98). CONCLUSIONS Our study found a lower mortality rate for adolescents with HIV than previous Ethiopian studies, but our significant mortality predictors were similar to those found in earlier studies of adults and adolescents. Our findings reveal a potential point for health service improvement in Ethiopia: incorporating monitoring of Hgb levels into patient follow-up care, supporting recommendations that clinicians emphasise managing OIs and providing counselling services to improve adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheru Tesema Leshargie
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Amhara, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Daniel Demant
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Jane Frawley
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Mhungu A, Sixsmith J, Burnett E. Adolescent Girls and Young Women's Experiences of Living with HIV in the Context of Patriarchal Culture in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:1365-1379. [PMID: 36318422 PMCID: PMC10129999 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03872-6] [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: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionately affected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to socio-cultural gender, power, and economic disparities. This scoping review examined the literature to explore what is known about AGYW's everyday personal, relational, and social experiences of HIV to help shape future protective HIV policy and practice. Six databases were searched: Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, ASSIA, Google Scholar, and ProQuest, resulting in a total of 12,581 articles. Of these, 40 articles were included in the review. Key themes generated from the thematic analysis were relational and psychosocial challenges, inhibiting sexual expression, poverty, stigma, and discrimination; managing health in everyday life; agency and resilience; and personal space and social support. In conclusion, the review found a lack of understanding of AGYW's everyday experiences of living with HIV from their own perspectives. There was also little consideration of the role of patriarchal culture and how this constrains AGYW's ability to negotiate their relationships. Further research is needed to reveal AGYW's perspectives on living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alington Mhungu
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, 11 Arlie Place, DD1 4HN, Dundee, Scotland.
| | - Judith Sixsmith
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, 11 Arlie Place, DD1 4HN, Dundee, Scotland
| | - Emma Burnett
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, 11 Arlie Place, DD1 4HN, Dundee, Scotland
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Sherr L, Haag K, Steventon Roberts KJ, Cluver LD, Wittesaele C, Saliwe B, Tolmay J, Langwenya N, Jochim J, Saal W, Zhou S, Marlow M, Chen-Charles JJ, Toska E. The development of children born to young mothers with no, first- or second-generation HIV acquisition in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058340. [PMID: 36229140 PMCID: PMC9562751 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058340] [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: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intergenerational effects of HIV require long-term investigation. We compared developmental outcomes of different generations impacted by HIV-children of mothers not living with HIV, the 'second generation' (ie, with recently infected mothers) and the 'third generation' (ie, children of perinatally infected mothers). METHODS A cross-sectional community sample of N=1015 young mothers (12-25 years) and their first children (2-68 months, 48.2% female), from South Africa's Eastern Cape Province. 71.3% (n=724) of children were born to mothers not living with HIV; 2.7% (n=27; 1 living with HIV) were third-generation and 26.0% (n=264; 11 living with HIV) second-generation children. Child scores on the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL), the WHO Ten Questions Screen for Disability and maternal demographics were compared between groups using χ2 tests and univariate approach, analysis of variance analysis. Hierarchical linear regressions investigated predictive effects of familial HIV infection patterns on child MSEL composite scores, controlling for demographic and family environment variables. RESULTS Second-generation children performed poorer on gross (M=47.0, SD=13.1) and fine motor functioning (M=41.4, SD=15.2) and the MSEL composite score (M=90.6, SD=23.0) than children with non-infected mothers (gross motor: M=50.4, SD=12.3; fine motor: M=44.4, SD=14.1; composite score: M=94.1, SD=20.7). The third generation performed at similar levels to non-exposed children (gross motor: M=52.4, SD=16.1; fine motor: M=44.3, SD=16.1, composite score: M=94.7, SD=22.2), though analyses were underpowered for definite conclusions. Hierarchical regression analyses suggest marginal predictive effects of being second-generation child compared with having a mother not living with HIV (B=-3.3, 95% CI=-6.8 to 0 .1) on MSEL total scores, and non-significant predictive effects of being a third-generation child (B=1.1, 5% CI=-7.5 to 9.7) when controlling for covariates. No group differences were found for disability rates (26.9% third generation, 27.7% second generation, 26.2% non-exposed; χ2=0.02, p=0.90). CONCLUSION Recently infected mothers and their children may struggle due to the disruptiveness of new HIV diagnoses and incomplete access to care/support during pregnancy and early motherhood. Long-standing familial HIV infection may facilitate care pathways and coping, explaining similar cognitive development among not exposed and third-generation children. Targeted intervention and fast-tracking into services may improve maternal mental health and socioeconomic support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Kathryn J Steventon Roberts
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lucie Dale Cluver
- Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Camille Wittesaele
- Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Bongiwe Saliwe
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Janke Tolmay
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Nontokozo Langwenya
- Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Janina Jochim
- Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Wylene Saal
- School of Humanities, Sol Plaatje University, Kimberly, South Africa
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Marguerite Marlow
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | | | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Western Cape, South Africa
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Gnatou GYS, Gbeasor-Komlanvi FA, Sadio AJ, Konu YR, Tchankoni MK, Zida-Compaore WIC, Agbonon A, Ekouevi DK. Knowledge and practices of female students at university of Kara regarding sexually transmitted infections in Togo, 2021. J Public Health Afr 2022; 13:2225. [PMID: 36051520 PMCID: PMC9425935 DOI: 10.4081/jphia.2022.2225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A good knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in female students is an important element in the prevention of STI transmission. The objective of this study is to describe the level of knowledge and practices on STI among female students at the University of Kara. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Kara from July to September 2021. Data were collected using a standard, digitalised, selfadministered questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to describe factors associated with the level of knowledge of STIs. A total of 1,055 female students with a median age of 21 years (interquartile range: 20-24) participated in the study. More than one-third (33.7%) of the students had good knowledge of STI. Having already been tested for HIV (aOR=3.25; 95% CI 2.36-4.52), having already had sex (aOR=1.56; 95% CI 1.10-2.24) and the level of education (AOR=3.46; 95% CI 2.10-5.85) were significantly associated with good STIs knowledge. Among the 723 female students (68.5%) who already had sex, 32.5% reported inconsistent use of condoms during sexual intercourse and 18.9% reported having multiple sexual partners. The results of this study highlight the importance of intensifying STIs prevention efforts (awareness, screening, and vaccination) among female students at the University of Kara.
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11
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Johnson‐Peretz J, Lebu S, Akatukwasa C, Getahun M, Ruel T, Lee J, Ayieko J, Mwangwa F, Owino L, Onyango A, Maeri I, Atwine F, Charlebois ED, Bukusi EA, Kamya MR, Havlir DV, Camlin CS. "I was still very young": agency, stigma and HIV care strategies at school, baseline results of a qualitative study among youth in rural Kenya and Uganda. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25 Suppl 1:e25919. [PMID: 35818888 PMCID: PMC9274360 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYAH) have the lowest rates of retention in HIV care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, partly due to the demands of school associated with this life stage, to HIV-related stigma and to fears of serostatus disclosure. We explore the implications of school-based stigma and disclosure on the development of agency during a critical life stage in rural Kenya and Uganda. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study in the baseline year of the SEARCH Youth study, a combination intervention using a life-stage approach among youth (15-24 years old) living with HIV in western Kenya and southwestern Uganda to improve viral load suppression and health outcomes. We conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews in 2019 with three cohorts of purposively selected study participants (youth [n = 83], balanced for sex, life stage and HIV care status; recommended family members of youth [n = 33]; and providers [n = 20]). Inductive analysis exploring contextual factors affecting HIV care engagement revealed the high salience of schooling environments. RESULTS Stigma within school settings, elicited by non-consensual serostatus disclosure, medication schedules and clinic appointments, exerts a constraining factor around which AYAH must navigate to identify and pursue opportunities available to them as young people. HIV status can affect cross-generational support and cohort formation, as AYAH differ from non-AYAH peers because of care-related demands affecting schooling, exams and graduation. However, adolescents demonstrate a capacity to overcome anticipated stigma and protect themselves by selectively disclosing HIV status to trusted peers and caregivers, as they develop a sense of agency concomitant with this life stage. Older adolescents showed greater ability to seek out supportive relationships than younger ones who relied on adult caregivers to facilitate this support. CONCLUSIONS School is a potential site of HIV stigma and also a setting for learning how to resist such stigma. School-going adolescents should be supported to identify helpful peers and selectively disclose serostatus as they master decision making about when and where to take medications, and who should know. Stigma is avoided by fewer visits to the clinic; providers should consider longer refills, discreet packaging and long-acting, injectable ART for students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Johnson‐Peretz
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sarah Lebu
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Monica Getahun
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Theodore Ruel
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Joi Lee
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - James Ayieko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)NairobiKenya
| | | | | | | | - Irene Maeri
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)NairobiKenya
| | | | - Edwin D. Charlebois
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)Center for AIDS Prevention StudiesSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC)KampalaUganda
- Department of MedicineMakerere University College of Health SciencesKampalaUganda
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- Division of HIVInfectious Diseases & Global MedicineDepartment of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)Center for AIDS Prevention StudiesSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
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12
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Adams C, Kiruki M, Karuga R, Otiso L, Graham SM, Beima-Sofie KM. "Your status cannot hinder you": the importance of resilience among adolescents engaged in HIV care in Kenya. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1272. [PMID: 35773690 PMCID: PMC9245269 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13677-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 40% of the 110,000 adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in Kenya have not achieved viral suppression. Despite the increasing availability of adolescent-friendly services, adolescents face barriers that impact ART adherence. This study aimed to identify key stigma-related barriers to ART adherence and strategies used by adolescents in overcoming these barriers. METHODS Data were collected by LVCT Health, a Kenyan organization with a programmatic focus on HIV testing, prevention, and care. 122 participants were recruited from 3 clinical sites affiliated with LVCT Health in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa. In-depth interviews were conducted with ALHIV (n = 12). Focus group discussions were conducted with ALHIV (n = 5), peer leaders (n = 3), and adolescents receiving HIV services in community settings (AIC) irrespective of HIV status (n = 3). Interviews and focus groups were audio recorded, translated, and transcribed. Data were analyzed thematically, with a focus on stigma and resilience. RESULTS While AIC primarily focused on adherence barriers and stigma, ALHIV and, to some extent, peer leaders, also identified resilience factors that helped overcome stigma. Four major themes emerged: 1) knowledge and future-oriented goals can drive motivation for ALHIV to remain healthy; 2) disclosure to others strengthens support systems for ALHIV; 3) medication-taking strategies and strategic disclosure can overcome adherence challenges in school; and 4) a supportive clinic environment promotes continuous adolescent engagement in HIV care. These concepts were used to develop a conceptual stigma/resilience model depicting how resilience moderates negative effects of stigma among ALHIV. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the positive effects of ALHIV resilience on ART adherence and illuminates how stigma impacts ALHIV differently depending on their resilience. Strengths-based interventions, focused on increasing resilience among ALHIV in Kenya, and more formal involvement of adolescent peers to bolster adolescent support, have the potential to improve ART adherence among ALHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey Adams
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Millicent Kiruki
- grid.463443.20000 0004 0372 7280Department of Research and Strategic Information, LVCT Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Robinson Karuga
- grid.463443.20000 0004 0372 7280Department of Research and Strategic Information, LVCT Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lilian Otiso
- grid.463443.20000 0004 0372 7280Department of Research and Strategic Information, LVCT Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Susan M. Graham
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Kristin M. Beima-Sofie
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
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13
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Nichols SL. Central Nervous System Impact of Perinatally Acquired HIV in Adolescents and Adults: an Update. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:121-132. [PMID: 35107809 PMCID: PMC8904346 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-021-00598-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Perinatally acquired HIV infection (PHIV) can confer neurodevelopmental risk. As children with PHIV increasingly survive through adolescence and into adulthood, understanding its long-term central nervous system (CNS) impacts is critical for maximizing adult outcomes and quality of life. Recent Findings Recently published neurocognitive and neuroimaging findings show impacts on the CNS associated with early HIV disease progression that endure into adolescence and young adulthood. Although developmental trajectories in adolescence largely appear stable, further research on maturational processes is indicated. Summary Although early antiretroviral therapy in infancy appears to be protective, it is not universally available and current youth largely developed without its benefit. The neurocognitive effects of HIV and the multiple other risks to neurodevelopment experienced by youth with PHIV call for further longitudinal research and a multifaceted approach to prevention and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon L Nichols
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego 9500 Gilman Drive, #0935, CA, 92093, La Jolla, USA.
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14
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Chen-Charles J, Rudgard WE, Doyle AM, Toska DE, Cluver PL. What do adolescents value most and is this affected by HIV status? Aspirations and self-perceptions from a large cohort study in South Africa. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2022; 27:97-106. [PMID: 36036247 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2022.2116059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hundreds of millions of adolescents across Africa face challenges in many areas of their lives, including elevated risk of HIV exposure and acquisition. Understanding the aspirations and self-perceptions of adolescents could play an important role in better targeting effective investments to break the cycle of adversity for adolescents and into their adulthood. Aiming to understand what adolescents value most for themselves and their future, we analysed and summarised cross-sectional data on the aspirations and self-perceptions of 1519 adolescents living in South Africa, overall and by HIV status. Outcomes were coded from participant responses to two open-ended questions: 'What job do you want to do when you grow up?' and 'What are you most proud of about yourself?'. Associations with HIV status were then evaluated using multivariable logistic regression adjusting for six sociodemographic factors measured from the same cohort. The sample had a mean age of 14 years, 55% were female, and 70% were living with HIV. The five most common job aspirations were: 'Health and Medical Science Professionals' (28%), 'Law Enforcement and Public Safety Professionals' (14%), 'Social Work Associate Professionals' (12%), 'Legal Professionals' (9%), and 'Education Institutions Teaching Professionals' (6%). The top five themes for what adolescents were most proud of about themselves were 'School performance' (22%), 'Outward appearance' (15%), 'Sports skills' (12%), 'Personality' (11%), and 'Behaviour at home/with elders' (7%). Adjusted analysis showed no evidence that HIV status was associated with important differences in aspirations or self-perceptions. In conclusion, adolescents facing high levels of adversity in South Africa hold high value for their education and aspirations for their futures. Policies and initiatives should focus on meeting these aspirations as vehicles for development, independent of their HIV status. Therefore, more needs to be done to not just help adolescents survive but thrive into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Chen-Charles
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - William E Rudgard
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Aoife M Doyle
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Dr Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Professor Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Mental Health and Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
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15
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Kalungwana L, Malcolm-Smith S, Schrieff L. Mental health and adaptive functioning among school-aged children living with HIV in Zambia. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:922944. [PMID: 36159920 PMCID: PMC9489899 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.922944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of children living with HIV (CLWHIV) has been increasing, reflected by lower mortality. However, this change is coupled with higher rates of morbidity, where CLWHIV face considerable challenges, including neurocognitive delays and mental health and behavioral functioning challenges. Despite Sub-Sahara accounting for the highest number of CLWHIV, there is still limited research on the effects of HIV on child mental health and adaptive functioning. METHOD Mental health and adaptive functioning were assessed in 120 children. The sample included 62 CLWHIV and 58 demographically-matched HIV-uninfected children aged 6-12 years. Mental health was assessed using the Connors, while adaptive functioning was assessed using the Vineland Adaptive Behavioral Scale (VABS). RESULTS Scores obtained were within average ranges for mental health (T-score 40-59) and adaptive functioning standard scores (70-115). However, CLWHIV had significantly higher mental health problems than uninfected children in executive functioning and aggressiveness (p < 0.05). CLWHIV had lower adaptive functioning scores on the VABS Communication domain although these differences were not significant. In the Daily Living Skills domain, CLWHIV had significantly higher scores than the HIV-uninfected children (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the Socialization subdomain. Furthermore, CLWHIV had significantly higher scores on the Maladaptive Behavior scales of the VABS' internalizing and externalizing subdomains. CONCLUSION Challenges to mental health and adaptive functioning are still pervasive among CLWHIV. These findings support the need to develop support mechanisms for CLWHIV to help address mental health and adaptive functioning problems, especially as they progress into adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kalungwana
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Applied Cognitive Science and Experimental Neuropsychology Team, Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Susan Malcolm-Smith
- Applied Cognitive Science and Experimental Neuropsychology Team, Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Leigh Schrieff
- Applied Cognitive Science and Experimental Neuropsychology Team, Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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16
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Kose J, Lenz C, Akuno J, Kiiru F, Jelagat Odionyi J, Otieno-Masaba R, Okoth EA, Woelk G, Leselewa S, Leendert Fraaij P, Rakhmanina N. Supporting adolescents living with HIV within boarding schools in Kenya. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260278. [PMID: 34855779 PMCID: PMC8638902 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescents and youth living with HIV (AYLHIV) are a uniquely vulnerable population facing challenges around adherence, disclosure of HIV status and stigma. Providing school-based support for AYLHIV offers an opportunity to optimize their health and wellbeing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of school-based supportive interventions for AYLHIV in Kenya. From 2016-2019, with funding from ViiV Healthcare, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation implemented the innovative Red Carpet Program (RCP) for AYLHIV in participating public healthcare facilities and boarding schools in Homa Bay and Turkana Counties in Kenya. In this analysis, we report the implementation of the school-based interventions for AYLHIV in schools, which included: a) capacity building for overall in-school HIV, stigma and sexual and reproductive health education; b) HIV care and treatment support; c) bi-directional linkages with healthcare facilities; and d) psychosocial support (PSS). Overall, 561 school staff and 476 school adolescent health advocates received training to facilitate supportive environments for AYLHIV and school-wide education on HIV, stigma, and sexual and reproductive health. All 87 boarding schools inter-linked to 66 regional healthcare facilities to support care and treatment of AYLHIV. Across all RCP schools, 546 AYLHIV had their HIV status disclosed to school staff and received supportive care within schools, including treatment literacy and adherence counselling, confidential storage and access to HIV medications. School-based interventions to optimize care and treatment support for AYLHIV are feasible and contribute to advancing sexual and reproductive health within schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Kose
- Technical Strategy and Innovation, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
- Erasmus MC, Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cosima Lenz
- Technical Strategy and Innovation, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Job Akuno
- Country Program, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Fred Kiiru
- Ministry of Education, Homa Bay County, Kenya
| | | | - Rose Otieno-Masaba
- Country Program, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A. Okoth
- Country Program, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Godfrey Woelk
- Research Department, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | | | - Pieter Leendert Fraaij
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Division, Erasmus MC-Sophia/ Erasmus University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Natella Rakhmanina
- Technical Strategy and Innovation, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, United States of America
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17
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Choruma DJ, Choruma SD, Pasirayi RM. Catch them young: Knowledge and awareness levels of HIV and AIDS transmission among high school students in Harare, Zimbabwe. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2021; 20:224-231. [PMID: 34635019 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2021.1979060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
HIV and AIDS has developed as one of the urgent problems affecting many youths in Africa. Yet many of the knowledge and awareness programmes aimed at young people do not target high schools where the majority of young people are found. As a result, many youths do not have accurate information on HIV and AIDS that they can use to protect themselves from the disease. The objectives of this study were to determine the knowledge and awareness of Sixth Form students regarding the spread of HIV and AIDS among young people. A study was carried out among Sixth Form students in three schools in Harare from October 2017 to November 2017. A total of 156 students participated in the survey. Results showed that most students (74%) obtained their information on HIV and AIDS from television and radio programmes. Most students (92%) were able to identify unprotected sexual intercourse as the major mode of HIV transmission, while 89% said that HIV could be transmitted through sharing injections. Some students had misconceptions about HIV and AIDS which might negatively influence their behaviour and attitude towards HIV and AIDS, for example, 11% of students said HIV and AIDS could be cured. The study concludes that programmes on awareness and knowledge application in schools are limited, and efforts should be increased to help students effectively apply the knowledge they have about HIV and AIDS in everyday life situations, and protect themselves from the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Junior Choruma
- African Studies Centre, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa.,Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | | | - Rutendo Moyra Pasirayi
- Education Department, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa.,Northcot Training Institute, Department of Social Services, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Woollett N, Pahad S, Black V. "We need our own clinics": Adolescents' living with HIV recommendations for a responsive health system. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253984. [PMID: 34197529 PMCID: PMC8248739 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescents living with HIV comprise a significant patient population in sub Saharan Africa but are poorly retained in care with consequent increased mortality and morbidity. We conducted in-depth interviews with 25 adolescents living with HIV engaged in care from five clinics in Johannesburg regarding their recommendations for the healthcare system. Findings included advocating for adolescent clinics, recognizing the importance of clinic-based support groups, valuing the influence lay counselors have in providing healthcare to adolescents, improving widespread education of vertical HIV transmission and meaningfully linking clinics to the community. Our study offers guidance to the differentiated care model recommended for adolescent treatment highlighting that a positive youth development approach and use of lay and peer counselors may act as cornerstones of this model. Serving the mental health needs of adolescents living with HIV in a responsive manner may strengthen their use of the system and elevate it to a source of resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Woollett
- Wits School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Shenaaz Pahad
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute (Wits RHI), Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Vivian Black
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Wits School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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19
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Olashore AA, Paruk S, Akanni OO, Tomita A, Chiliza B. Psychiatric Disorders in Adolescents Living with HIV and Association with Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:1711-1728. [PMID: 33216245 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03100-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), a systematic approach to exploring the prevalence of psychiatric disorders (PDs) and adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) in adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV) is lacking. This study aimed to systematically review the studies conducted in SSA on the prevalence of PDs among ALWHIV and their association with ART adherence. A systematic search of all English studies assessing PDs among ALWHIV using the Web of Science, PubMed, and EBSCO databases was conducted between March 1 and September 30, 2019. Forty-two studies published between 2009 to 2019 met the inclusion criteria, of which 15 were included in the meta-analysis. The most common PDs were depression (0.24, 95% CI 0.14-0.36) and anxiety disorder (0.26, 95% CI 2-0.44). The available evidence could not conclude on the definitive association between PDs and ART adherence; therefore, further research is required. However, the need for mental health integration in the care for ALWHIV is evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony A Olashore
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.
| | - Saeeda Paruk
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Oluyemi O Akanni
- Clinical Services, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
| | - Andrew Tomita
- KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Centre for Rural Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Bonginkosi Chiliza
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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20
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Merville O, Puangmala P, Suksawas P, Kliangpiboon W, Keawvilai W, Tunkam C, Yama S, Sukhaphan U, Sathan S, Marasri S, Rolland-Guillard L, Sirirungsi W, Le Cœur S. School trajectory disruption among adolescents living with perinatal HIV receiving antiretroviral treatments: a case-control study in Thailand. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:189. [PMID: 33478442 PMCID: PMC7818931 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10189-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with perinatal HIV often experience difficult living circumstances that can impact educational achievement and thus their transition to adult life. We explored their school trajectories and evaluated the contribution of perinatal HIV-infection, in Thailand, where education is free and compulsory until the age of 15. METHODS We used data from the Teens Living with Antiretrovirals (TEEWA) study, a cross-sectional case-control study conducted from 2011 to 2014 in Thailand. Participants were 707 adolescents living with perinatal HIV (ALPHIV, cases) aged 12-19 receiving antiretroviral therapy in 19 hospitals throughout Thailand and 689 HIV-uninfected adolescents (controls) living in the same institutions or, for those living in family settings, randomly selected from the general population and individually matched for sex, age, and place of residence. School trajectory disruption was defined as ≥1 year of academic delay or as early school dropout (before 15 years of age). Logistic regression models were used to assess factors independently associated with disrupted school trajectory and to estimate the proportion of school disruption attributable to HIV-infection. We used multivariate imputations by chained equations (MICE) to manage missing data and performed two sensitivity analyses to evaluate the main model's reliability. RESULTS The study population's median age was 14.5 years (58% female). School trajectory disruption was experienced by 37% of ALPHIV and 12% of the controls. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, ALPHIV were 5 times more likely to experience disruption than controls (ORA =5.2 [3.7-7.2]). About 50% of school trajectory disruption was attributable to HIV-infection. Males and adolescents living in institutions were more likely to experience school trajectory disruption (ORA =1.8 [1.3-2.4] and ORA =11.0 [7.7-15.8], respectively). Among ALPHIV, neurocognitive difficulties and growth delay were significantly associated with disruption (ORA =3.3 [2.1-5.2] and ORA =1.8 [1.3-2.6], respectively). For those living in families, disruption was also associated with having a caregiver who had less than a secondary-level education (ORA =2.1 [1.1-3.9]) or having experienced stigmatization (ORA =1.9 [1.2-3.1]). CONCLUSIONS HIV and contextual factors combine to aggravate the educational disadvantage among ALPHIV. The impact of this disadvantage on their life prospects, especially regarding access to higher education and professional achievement, should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ophélie Merville
- Institut national d'études démographiques (INED), Paris, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Wasna Sirirungsi
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sophie Le Cœur
- Institut national d'études démographiques (INED), Paris, France.,Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD) UMI 174-PHPT, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Cluver L, Doubt J, Wessels I, Asnong C, Malunga S, Mauchline K, Vale B, Medley S, Toska E, Orkin K, Dunkley Y, Meinck F, Myeketsi N, Lasa S, Rupert C, Boyes M, Pantelic M, Sherr L, Gittings L, Hodes R, Kuo C, Chetty AN, Thabeng M. Power to participants: methodological and ethical reflections from a decade of adolescent advisory groups in South Africa. AIDS Care 2020; 33:858-866. [PMID: 33213195 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1845289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTWhilst the HIV response has made significant progress in increasing representation of adults affected by HIV, the meaningful inclusion of children and adolescents has lagged. But this may be a pivotal moment of change. We report on a decade of conducting adolescent advisory groups in South Africa, to reflect on youth advisory processes. Data was collected from 2008 to 2018 from adolescent advisors (n = 60) and researchers (n = 25), and included feedback sessions, social media, anonymous "post-boxes" and interviews. Findings include the value of adolescent involvement in multiple stages of research co-creation and engagement in policy processes, the need for a safe environment and supporting adolescents living in extreme vulnerability. We also discuss the reconfiguring of power and personal relationships, and logistical and financial needs of adolescent advisory groups. Findings suggest that adolescent co-creation of research is feasible, even with very vulnerable adolescents, although ethical considerations need to be carefully addressed. Benefits include increased methodological rigour, enhanced adolescent acceptability of research and the recalibration of research dynamics for the empowerment of their target beneficiaries. Future studies could benefit from meaningfully involving adolescents through youth advisory groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jenny Doubt
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Inge Wessels
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Carine Asnong
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Samantha Malunga
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kerry Mauchline
- Ministry of Education, Western Cape Government, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Sally Medley
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kate Orkin
- Blavatnik School of Government and Centre for the Study of African Economies, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Franziska Meinck
- Optentia Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.,School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | | | | | - Mark Boyes
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Marija Pantelic
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Sussex, UK
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Independent.,Health Psychology Unit, Institute of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lesley Gittings
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rebecca Hodes
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Caroline Kuo
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Angelique N Chetty
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mildred Thabeng
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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22
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Learning About HIV: Predicting the Sources of Knowledge That Matter Regarding HIV Testing Among a National Sample of Black and Latinx Adolescents and Young Adults in the United States. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2020; 31:417-427. [PMID: 31985508 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the knowledge and beliefs of a nationally representative sample of youth and young adults about HIV based on the microsystems and mesosystems of the ecodevelopmental theory. We used a stratified sample (n = 538) of Black and Latinx adolescents and young adults in the United States, 15-24 years of age, at risk of becoming infected with HIV to assess the source of their HIV knowledge and its association with HIV testing to identify modifiable factors that can support the development of interventions addressing HIV-related risks. Using a logistic regression analysis, findings suggest that identifying protective health behaviors, such as providing adolescents and young adults with sexual health information that is accurate, trustworthy, and safe, could be one way to reduce their risk of HIV infection. Expanding knowledge about the important role and influence of sources of HIV-related knowledge on testing behaviors can inform HIV prevention and intervention programs specific to this population.
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23
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Cluver LD, Rudgard WE, Toska E, Zhou S, Campeau L, Shenderovich Y, Orkin M, Desmond C, Butchart A, Taylor H, Meinck F, Sherr L. Violence prevention accelerators for children and adolescents in South Africa: A path analysis using two pooled cohorts. PLoS Med 2020; 17:e1003383. [PMID: 33166288 PMCID: PMC7652294 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The INSPIRE framework was developed by 10 global agencies as the first global package for preventing and responding to violence against children. The framework includes seven complementary strategies. Delivering all seven strategies is a challenge in resource-limited contexts. Consequently, governments are requesting additional evidence to inform which 'accelerator' provisions can simultaneously reduce multiple types of violence against children. METHODS AND FINDINGS We pooled data from two prospective South African adolescent cohorts including Young Carers (2010-2012) and Mzantsi Wakho (2014-2017). The combined sample size was 5,034 adolescents. Each cohort measured six self-reported violence outcomes (sexual abuse, transactional sexual exploitation, physical abuse, emotional abuse, community violence victimisation, and youth lawbreaking) and seven self-reported INSPIRE-aligned protective factors (positive parenting, parental monitoring and supervision, food security at home, basic economic security at home, free schooling, free school meals, and abuse response services). Associations between hypothesised protective factors and violence outcomes were estimated jointly in a sex-stratified multivariate path model, controlling for baseline outcomes and socio-demographics and correcting for multiple-hypothesis testing using the Benjamini-Hochberg procedure. We calculated adjusted probability estimates conditional on the presence of no, one, or all protective factors significantly associated with reduced odds of at least three forms of violence in the path model. Adjusted risk differences (ARDs) and adjusted risk ratios (ARRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were also calculated. The sample mean age was 13.54 years, and 56.62% were female. There was 4% loss to follow-up. Positive parenting, parental monitoring and supervision, and food security at home were each associated with lower odds of three or more violence outcomes (p < 0.05). For girls, the adjusted probability of violence outcomes was estimated to be lower if all three of these factors were present, as compared to none of them: sexual abuse, 5.38% and 1.64% (ARD: -3.74% points, 95% CI -5.31 to -2.16, p < 0.001); transactional sexual exploitation, 10.07% and 4.84% (ARD: -5.23% points, 95% CI -7.26 to -3.20, p < 0.001); physical abuse, 38.58% and 23.85% (ARD: -14.72% points, 95% CI -19.11 to -10.33, p < 0.001); emotional abuse, 25.39% and 12.98% (ARD: -12.41% points, 95% CI -16.00 to -8.83, p < 0.001); community violence victimisation, 36.25% and 28.37% (ARD: -7.87% points, 95% CI -11.98 to -3.76, p < 0.001); and youth lawbreaking, 18.90% and 11.61% (ARD: -7.30% points, 95% CI -10.50 to -4.09, p < 0.001). For boys, the adjusted probability of violence outcomes was also estimated to be lower if all three factors were present, as compared to none of them: sexual abuse, 2.39% to 1.80% (ARD: -0.59% points, 95% CI -2.24 to 1.05, p = 0.482); transactional sexual exploitation, 6.97% to 4.55% (ARD: -2.42% points, 95% CI -4.77 to -0.08, p = 0.043); physical abuse from 37.19% to 25.44% (ARD: -11.74% points, 95% CI -16.91 to -6.58, p < 0.001); emotional abuse from 23.72% to 10.72% (ARD: -13.00% points, 95% CI -17.04 to -8.95, p < 0.001); community violence victimisation from 41.28% to 35.41% (ARD: -5.87% points, 95% CI -10.98 to -0.75, p = 0.025); and youth lawbreaking from 22.44% to 14.98% (ARD -7.46% points, 95% CI -11.57 to -3.35, p < 0.001). Key limitations were risk of residual confounding and not having information on protective factors related to all seven INSPIRE strategies. CONCLUSION In this cohort study, we found that positive and supervisory caregiving and food security at home are associated with reduced risk of multiple forms of violence against children. The presence of all three of these factors may be linked to greater risk reduction as compared to the presence of one or none of these factors. Policies promoting action on positive and supervisory caregiving and food security at home are likely to support further efficiencies in the delivery of INSPIRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie D. Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - William E. Rudgard
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Department of Statistics and AIDS and Society Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Yulia Shenderovich
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Orkin
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Development Pathways to Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Chris Desmond
- Centre for Rural Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Alexander Butchart
- Violence Prevention Unit, Social Determinant of Health, Healthier Populations Division, World Health Organization, Switzerland
| | - Howard Taylor
- Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Franziska Meinck
- OPTENTIA Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, South Africa
- School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Health Psychology Unit, Institute of Global Health, University College London, United Kingdom
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24
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Maddocks S, Perumal K, Chetty V. Schooling for children living with human immunodeficiency virus in a community in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Perceptions of educators and healthcare workers. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOTHERAPY 2020; 76:1405. [PMID: 32832709 PMCID: PMC7433225 DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v76i1.1405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Children living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are faced with challenges, such as social and contextual barriers in society, resulting from their disabilities. Schooling and education, which are crucial for children’s future livelihoods, are areas in which children living with HIV often experience exclusion within South African communities. Educators and healthcare professionals, through collaborative efforts, could influence schooling by improving access and care for children living with HIV. Objectives To explore the perceptions of educators and healthcare workers on schooling for children living with HIV in a semi-rural community in South Africa. Methods Semi-structured interviews were held, with eight healthcare workers and eight educators, adopting an explorative qualitative approach. Data from the interviews were transcribed and analysed using content analysis. Results Four overarching themes were identified: the influence of living with HIV on school readiness and progression; stakeholder support practices to enhance bonding and bridging; obstacles to support; and future directives to foster success at school for children living with HIV. Conclusion Educators and healthcare workers felt that social determinants, including poverty and stigma, as well as comorbidities of the virus, influenced the school readiness of children living with HIV. Bonding with children and partnering with caregivers was seen as crucial for fostering successful schooling. Clinical implications Additionally, interdisciplinary collaboration between healthcare workers and educators was seen as important for a holistic approach to caring for children living with HIV. Early identification of disabilities was also believed to be important in addressing the social barriers hindering schooling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Maddocks
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Kesni Perumal
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Verusia Chetty
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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25
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Mutambo C, Shumba K, Hlongwana KW. Post-training and mentorship experiences of KidzAlive-trained healthcare workers at primary healthcare facilities in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2020; 12:e1-e11. [PMID: 32634017 PMCID: PMC7343958 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v12i1.2109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background KidzAlive, a multicomponent, child-centred capacity building model was adopted by South Africa’s National Department of Health to address the challenges of quality of care among HIV+ children. This model involves training and mentoring healthcare workers (HCWs) on a child-centred care approach of communicating with children and their primary caregivers (PCGs). This study explored HCWs’ post-training experiences after a 6-months implementation period. Aim To evaluate the KidzAlive model as a healthcare approach that seeks to improve the quality of HIV care among children. Setting The study was conducted in 20 PHC rural and urban facilities across four districts in KwaZulu-Natal. Methods Interviews were conducted by trained interviewers who followed a structured interview guide. These were audio-recorded, transcribed, and imported into NVivo 10 software for thematic analysis. Thematic analysis was used to develop a coding framework from the participant’s responses. Results Five themes, namely: (1) increased healthcare worker knowledge, skills and confidence to provide child-friendly HIV services to children; (2) increased involvement of HIV + children in own healthcare journey; (3) the involvement of primary caregivers in children’s healthcare journey; (4) improved health outcomes for HIV + children; and e) transformation of the PHC environment towards being more child-friendly. Conclusion The findings present preliminary evidence of successful KidzAlive trained HCWs’ buy-in of KidzAlive intervention. KidzAlive has been well integrated into current service delivery processes in PHC facilities. However, more rigorous research is warranted to fully understand the impact of this intervention on children and their primary caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chipo Mutambo
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.
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26
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Toska E, Laurenzi CA, Roberts KJ, Cluver L, Sherr L. Adolescent mothers affected by HIV and their children: A scoping review of evidence and experiences from sub-Saharan Africa. Glob Public Health 2020; 15:1655-1673. [PMID: 32507031 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1775867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
While adolescents have received increasing attention in the global HIV response and international strategies and commitments, adolescent mothers and their children remain largely overlooked in research, funding and, programming for health-related outcomes. We conducted an extensive scoping review of current evidence on the experiences of adolescent mothers affected by HIV and their children in this region. We included published literature and conference abstracts, complemented by consultations with key stakeholders, and a review of documents through grey literature searching. First, we summarise the experiences of adolescent mothers and their children related to HIV and key health and development indicators. The syndemic of early motherhood and HIV in sub-Saharan Africa increases the vulnerability of adolescent mothers and their children. We then highlight lessons from a series of promising programmes focused on supporting adolescent mothers through novel approaches. In sub-Saharan Africa, supporting adolescent mothers living in high HIV-risk communities is critical not only to eliminate HIV/AIDS, but also to attain the Sustainable Development Goals. While research on and programming for adolescent mothers and their children is growing, the complex needs for this vulnerable group remain unmet. We conclude with evidence gaps and programming priorities for adolescent mothers affected by HIV and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christina A Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | | | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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27
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Crowley T, van der Merwe A, Kidd M, Skinner D. Adolescent human immunodeficiency virus self-management: Associations with treatment adherence, viral suppression, sexual risk behaviours and health-related quality of life. South Afr J HIV Med 2020; 21:1054. [PMID: 32391177 PMCID: PMC7203195 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v21i1.1054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background With the advent of access to antiretroviral treatment (ART), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has become a chronic disease and self-management is an important component of its care. Research to date has not explored associations between adolescent HIV self-management and treatment adherence, viral suppression, sexual risk behaviour and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Objectives To explore the associations between adolescent HIV self-management and treatment adherence, viral suppression, sexual risk behaviour and HRQoL. Methods A quantitative cross-sectional study of 385 adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) aged 13–18 years, who were recruited from 11 healthcare facilities between March and August 2017 in the Cape Metropole of the Western Cape, South Africa, provided the data that were examined in this self-completed questionnaire. Validated scales were used to measure key variables. The most recent viral load (VL) was obtained from the participants’ clinic folder, taking into account that VL is done annually. Results Adolescents who reported higher HIV self-management were more likely to be adherent to treatment (t = 4.435 [336], p < 0.01), virally suppressed (t = 2.376 [305], p = 0.02) and to practise consistent condom use (t = 1.947 [95], p = 0.54). Structural equation modelling (SEM) indicated a significant relationship between self-management and HRQoL (r = 0.43, p < 0.01), whilst non-adherent treatment taking behaviour, correlated with elevated VL log values. No significant correlation was found between self-management and sexual risk behaviour. Conclusion Targeting adolescents’ skills related to HIV self-management in the clinical setting may improve adolescents’ treatment taking behaviour, viral suppression rates and their HRQoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talitha Crowley
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anita van der Merwe
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Martin Kidd
- Centre for Statistical Consultation, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Donald Skinner
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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28
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Crowley T, van der Merwe A, Skinner D. Adolescent HIV Self-management: Lived Experiences of Adolescents, Caregivers, and Health Care Workers in a South African Context. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2019; 30:e7-e19. [PMID: 31241512 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a complex developmental phase, made more complex by chronic disease. When dealing with treatment and the health impact of chronic diseases, adolescents need to learn to self-manage an array of challenges. Unfortunately, there is a gap in the literature related to chronic disease self-management in adolescents living with HIV. We describe the phenomenon from the perspectives of adolescents, caregivers, and health care workers (HCWs) in South Africa. Individual interviews were conducted with 6 adolescents, 6 caregivers, and 6 HCWs, followed by 5 adolescent focus groups. Interpretive phenomenology guided exploration of social and cultural experiences and found that adolescent self-management required an understanding of HIV and hope for the future. Adolescents also needed skills to prioritize and negotiate care while managing stigma. These processes were facilitated by love and support, primarily from immediate family, and by the adolescent engaging with family, HCWs, and peers.
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