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Adan MA, Psaros C, Chamberlin G, Zionts D, Iyer S, Platt L, Lopes MD, Medeiros S, O'Connor C, Bassett IV, Ard KL. Swiping right on PrEP: a qualitative study of MSM preferences for PrEP public health messaging on dating apps. AIDS Care 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38648528 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2343761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV. Given that over 70% of MSM meet sexual partners via dating apps, such apps may be an effective platform for promoting HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use. We aimed to describe preferences among MSM for PrEP advertisements displayed on dating apps. We conducted individual in-depth interviews with 16 MSM recruited from a mobile sexual health unit in Boston, Massachusetts. Two focus groups were also held: one with mobile unit staff (N = 3) and one with mobile unit users (N = 3). Content analysis was used to identify themes related to advertisement content and integration with app use. Mean participant age was 28 (SD 6.8); 37% identified as White and 63% as Latinx. 21% of interviews were conducted in Spanish. Preferences were organized around four themes: (1) relevant and relatable advertisements, (2) expansion of target audiences to promote access, (3) concise and captivating advertisements, and (4) PrEP advertisements and services as options, not obligations. MSM are supportive of receiving information about PrEP on dating apps, but feel that existing advertisements require modification to better engage viewers. Dating apps may be an underutilized tool for increasing PrEP awareness and knowledge among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Adan
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christina Psaros
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Grace Chamberlin
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dani Zionts
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Surabhi Iyer
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura Platt
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kevin L Ard
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Nimbi FM, Ricciardi L, Galizia R, Lingiardi V. Using social media for male sexual health: what do we miss? A perspective article on good practices and missing evidence. Int J Impot Res 2024:10.1038/s41443-024-00854-1. [PMID: 38443554 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-024-00854-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Social media are popular and play a key role in influencing, informing, and stimulating users in their everyday lives. People (especially adolescents and young adults) increasingly use social media to get and share sexual health-related information. Studies have shown encouraging results on using social media for sexual health communication improving attitudes and behaviors, although the current quality of studies makes them little reliable. In fact, literature shows how research on social media and sexual health communication has many limitations and unexplored areas, especially for male users. What can we do as sexual health professionals to improve in this field? The answer is simple: engage in better communication and do more research, starting from the users' needs. There is the urgency to embrace these new ways of information among professionals in order to improve access to better care. In this perspective article, authors will present and discuss some of the evidence on the use of social media in male sexual health and offer some suggestions on how to communicate better in these platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Maria Nimbi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Livio Ricciardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Galizia
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Orellana CB, Lyerla J, Martin A, Milner F. Sexually transmitted infections and dating app use. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2024; 21:3999-4035. [PMID: 38549316 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2024177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is rising sharply in the United States. Between 2014 and 2019, incidence among men and women has increased by 62.8% and 21.4%, respectively, with an estimated 68 million Americans contracting an STI in 2018.a Some human behaviors impacting the expanding STI epidemic are unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners.b Increasing dating app usage has been postulated as a driver for increases in the numbers of people engaging in these behaviors. Using the proposed model, it is estimated that both STI incidence and prevalence for females and males have increased annually by 9%-15% between 2015 and 2019 due to dating apps usage, and that STI incidence and prevalence will continue to increase in the future. The model is also used to assess the possible benefit of in-app prevention campaigns.ahttps://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/fact-sheets/std/STI-Incidence-Prevalence-Cost-Factsheet.htmbA. N. Sawyer, E. R. Smith, and E. G. Benotsch. Dating application use and sexual risk behavior among young adults. Sexuality Research and Social Policy, 15:183-191, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Bustamante Orellana
- Simon A. Levin Mathematical, Computational and Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Engineering Center, A Wing, AZ 85287-3901, USA
| | - Jordan Lyerla
- Department of Biology, Univeristy of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Aaron Martin
- Simon A. Levin Mathematical, Computational and Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Engineering Center, A Wing, AZ 85287-3901, USA
| | - Fabio Milner
- Simon A. Levin Mathematical, Computational and Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Engineering Center, A Wing, AZ 85287-3901, USA
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Abraham E, Chow EPF, Fairley CK, Lee D, Kong FYS, Mao L, Goller JL, Medland N, Bavinton BR, Sudarto B, Joksic S, Wong J, Phillips TR, Ong JJ. eSexualHealth: Preferences to use technology to promote sexual health among men who have sex with men and trans and gender diverse people. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1064408. [PMID: 36711397 PMCID: PMC9877518 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1064408] [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: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and trans and gender diverse (TGD) people are disproportionately affected by poorer sexual health outcomes compared to heterosexual populations. We aimed to explore the preferences of GBMSM and TGD for using eHealth for sexual health (eSexualHealth). Methods We distributed an anonymous online survey from April to August 2021among the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and other people of diverse sexuality or gender (LGBTIQA+) community in Australia. The survey collected data on sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviors, their preferences for app/website functions and preferred HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing reminders. We used descriptive statistics to summarize the characteristics of the study population. Free-text responses were thematically analyzed. Results Of 466 participants included, most identified as cisgender males (92.7%). The median age was 48 [interquartile range (IQR): 37-56]. For accessing sexual health-related information, 160 (34.6%) would use either a website or an app, 165 (32.7%) would prefer a website, 119 (25.8%) would prefer an app, and 33 (7.1%) would not use either platform. There was no significant difference between GBMSM and TGD people. Participants were most interested in information about STI clinics, HIV/STI hotspots, and sexual health education. Participants stressed the need for privacy and anonymity when using eHealth. Regarding reminders to test for HIV/STIs, receiving regular SMS was most popular (112/293, 38.2%), followed by regular emails (55/293 18.8%) and a reminder function on their phone (48/293, 16.4%). Conclusion Our study suggests a promising future for eHealth among GBMSM and TGD people. Sexual health is still a stigmatized area, and eHealth may circumvent barriers this population faces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esha Abraham
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eric P. F. Chow
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher K. Fairley
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David Lee
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Fabian Y. S. Kong
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Limin Mao
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jane L. Goller
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicholas Medland
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Budiadi Sudarto
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | - Tiffany R. Phillips
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jason J. Ong
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Jason J. Ong ✉
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Muacevic A, Adler JR. Social Media Role and Its Impact on Public Health: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e33737. [PMID: 36793805 PMCID: PMC9925030 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.33737] [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: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Social media refers to online social networking sites and is a broad example of Web 2.0, such as Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, Instagram, WhatsApp, and blogs. It is a new and ever-changing field. Access to the internet, social media platforms and mobile communications are all tools that can be leveraged to make health information available and accessible. This research aimed to conduct an introductory study of the existing published literature on why to choose and how to use social media to obtain population health information and to gain knowledge about various health sectors like disease surveillance, health education, health research, health and behavioral modification, influence policy, enhance professional development and doctor-patient relation development. We searched for publications using databases like PubMed, NCBI, and Google Scholar, and combined 2022 social media usage statistics from PWC, Infographics Archive, and Statista online websites. The American Medical Association (AMA) policy about Professionalism in Social Media Use, American College of Physicians-Federations of State Medical Boards (ACP-FSMB) guidelines for Online Medical Professionalism, and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) social media violations were also briefly reviewed. Our findings reflect the benefits and drawbacks of using web platforms and how they impact public health ethically, professionally, and socially. During our research, we discovered that social media's impact on public health concerns is both positive and negative, and we attempted to explain how social networks are assisting people in achieving health, which is still a source of much debate.
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Eysenbach G, Kennedy CE, Minamitani A, Baggaley R, Shah P, Verster A, Luhmann N, de Mello MB, Macdonald V. Web-Based Service Provision of HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention, Testing, Linkage, and Treatment for Key Populations: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e40150. [PMID: 36548036 PMCID: PMC9816952 DOI: 10.2196/40150] [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: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the growth of web-based interventions for HIV, viral hepatitis (VH), and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for key populations, the evidence for the effectiveness of these interventions has not been reported. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to inform the World Health Organization guidelines for HIV, VH, and STI prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services for key populations by systematically reviewing the effectiveness, values and preferences, and costs of web-based outreach, web-based case management, and targeted web-based health information for key populations (men who have sex with men, sex workers, people who inject drugs, trans and gender-diverse people, and people in prisons and other closed settings). METHODS We searched CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Embase in May 2021 for peer-reviewed studies; screened abstracts; and extracted data in duplicate. The effectiveness review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. We assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration tool for RCTs and the Evidence Project and Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions tools for non-RCTs. Values and preferences and cost data were summarized descriptively. RESULTS Of 2711 records identified, we included 13 (0.48%) articles in the effectiveness review (3/13, 23% for web-based outreach; 7/13, 54% for web-based case management; and 3/13, 23% for targeted web-based health information), 15 (0.55%) articles in the values and preferences review, and 1 (0.04%) article in the costs review. Nearly all studies were conducted among men who have sex with men in the United States. These articles provided evidence that web-based approaches are as effective as face-to-face services in terms of reaching new people, use of HIV, VH, and STI prevention services, and linkage to and retention in HIV care. A meta-analysis of 2 RCTs among men who have sex with men in China found increased HIV testing after web-based outreach (relative risk 1.39, 95% CI 1.21-1.60). Among men who have sex with men in the United States, such interventions were considered feasible and acceptable. One cost study among Canadian men who have sex with men found that syphilis testing campaign advertisements had the lowest cost-per-click ratio on hookup platforms compared with more traditional social media platforms. CONCLUSIONS Web-based services for HIV, VH, and STIs may be a feasible and acceptable approach to expanding services to key populations with similar outcomes as standard of care, but more research is needed in low-resource settings, among key populations other than men who have sex with men, and for infections other than HIV (ie, VH and STIs).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caitlin Elizabeth Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ayako Minamitani
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rachel Baggaley
- Testing, Prevention and Population Unit, Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Purvi Shah
- Testing, Prevention and Population Unit, Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.,Regional Support Team Asia Pacific, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, New Delhi, India
| | - Annette Verster
- Testing, Prevention and Population Unit, Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Niklas Luhmann
- Testing, Prevention and Population Unit, Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maeve Brito de Mello
- Testing, Prevention and Population Unit, Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Virginia Macdonald
- Testing, Prevention and Population Unit, Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Tran NK, Martinez O, Scheim AI, Goldstein ND, Welles SL. Perceived Barriers to and Facilitators of Long-Acting Injectable HIV PrEP Use Among Black, Hispanic/Latino, and White Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2022; 34:365-378. [PMID: 36181495 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2022.34.5.365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (LAI-PrEP) was recently approved for HIV prevention as an alternative to daily oral PrEP. We explored preferences and attitudes toward LAI-PrEP among Black, Hispanic/Latino, and White gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) using focus groups (n = 13) and in-depth interviews (n = 17). Participants expressed differing levels of interest in LAI-PrEP. While important benefits of LAI-PrEP included convenience, provider-facilitated PrEP discussion, and expansion of PrEP options, participants raised concerns about treatment efficacy and side effects, discomfort with needles/injections, cost, and frequency of clinic visits. Our findings highlight ongoing challenges with accessing HIV-prevention tools and provide guidance for developing strategies to enhance LAI-PrEP uptake among GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen K Tran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Omar Martinez
- Department of Population Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
| | - Ayden I Scheim
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Neal D Goldstein
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Seth L Welles
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Burgess R, Feliciano JT, Lizbinski L, Ransome Y. Trends and Characteristics of #HIVPrevention Tweets Posted Between 2014 and 2019: Retrospective Infodemiology Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2022; 8:e35937. [PMID: 35969453 PMCID: PMC9412898 DOI: 10.2196/35937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Twitter is becoming an increasingly important avenue for people to seek information about HIV prevention. Tweets about HIV prevention may reflect or influence current norms about the acceptability of different HIV prevention methods. Therefore, it may be useful to empirically investigate trends in the level of attention paid to different HIV prevention topics on Twitter over time. OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to investigate temporal trends in the frequency of tweets about different HIV prevention topics on Twitter between 2014 and 2019. METHODS We used the Twitter application programming interface to obtain English-language tweets employing #HIVPrevention between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2019 (n=69,197, globally). Using iterative qualitative content analysis on samples of tweets, we developed a keyword list to categorize the tweets into 10 prevention topics (eg, condom use, preexposure prophylaxis [PrEP]) and compared the frequency of tweets mentioning each topic over time. We assessed the overall change in the proportions of #HIVPrevention tweets mentioning each prevention topic in 2019 as compared with 2014 using chi-square and Fisher exact tests. We also conducted descriptive analyses to identify the accounts posting the most original tweets, the accounts retweeted most frequently, the most frequently used word pairings, and the spatial distribution of tweets in the United States compared with the number of state-level HIV cases. RESULTS PrEP (13,895 tweets; 20.08% of all included tweets) and HIV testing (7688, 11.11%) were the most frequently mentioned topics, whereas condom use (2941, 4.25%) and postexposure prophylaxis (PEP; 823, 1.19%) were mentioned relatively less frequently. The proportions of tweets mentioning PrEP (327/2251, 14.53%, in 2014, 5067/12,971, 39.1%, in 2019; P≤.001), HIV testing (208/2251, 9.24%, in 2014, 2193/12,971, 16.91% in 2019; P≤.001), and PEP (25/2251, 1.11%, in 2014, 342/12,971, 2.64%, in 2019; P≤.001) were higher in 2019 compared with 2014, whereas the proportions of tweets mentioning abstinence, condom use, circumcision, harm reduction, and gender inequity were lower in 2019 compared with 2014. The top retweeted accounts were mostly UN-affiliated entities; celebrities and HIV advocates were also represented. Geotagged #HIVPrevention tweets in the United States between 2014 and 2019 (n=514) were positively correlated with the number of state-level HIV cases in 2019 (r=0.81, P≤.01). CONCLUSIONS Twitter may be a useful source for identifying HIV prevention trends. During our evaluation period (2014-2019), the most frequently mentioned prevention topics were PrEP and HIV testing in tweets using #HIVPrevention. Strategic responses to these tweets that provide information about where to get tested or how to obtain PrEP may be potential approaches to reduce HIV incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Burgess
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Josemari T Feliciano
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Leonardo Lizbinski
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- The Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Yusuf Ransome
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
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Velásquez-Jiménez CM, Sarmiento MI, Vargas S, Fandiño V, Puerto-de-Amaya MB, Ardila-Sierra A, Quintana E. Estrategia educativa intercultural para la prevención del cáncer de cuello cérvico uterino en el resguardo de Paujil, Amazonia Colombiana. REVISTA U.D.C.A ACTUALIDAD & DIVULGACIÓN CIENTÍFICA 2022. [DOI: 10.31910/rudca.v25.nsupl.1.2022.2159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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10
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Galvan FH, Liu H, Brooks RA, Chen YT, Mendoza Lepe R. Using social and sexual networking mobile applications to promote HIV testing, medical care and prevention services among Latino men who have sex with men in Los Angeles County, California, USA. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268406. [PMID: 35560041 PMCID: PMC9106153 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV disproportionately affects Latinos versus Whites, with Latinos having higher rates of HIV. Additionally, many HIV-positive Latinos are unaware of their infection. Proyecto Protégete, an HIV prevention intervention developed for Latino men who have sex with men (MSM), used social and sexual networking mobile applications (apps) to recruit individuals for HIV testing and linkage to medical care and prevention services. This study occurred in Los Angeles County, California, USA from December 18, 2015 to April 22, 2017. The study’s primary aim was to assess Proyecto Protégete‘s ability to successfully recruit Latino MSM involved in high-risk sexual activities. A secondary aim was to evaluate its capacity to promote HIV testing and linkage to HIV medical care and prevention services among this population by comparing it to two programs with similar samples. Comparisons using Fisher’s Exact Test were conducted between Proyecto Protégete and the HIV testing program of the agency in which Proyecto Protégete was located and the County-funded HIV testing programs to compare the samples’ rates of HIV-positive Latino MSM identified through HIV testing and linked to HIV medical care and prevention services. Participants were recruited through seven apps. In Proyecto Protégete, 9,573 individuals completed the screener, 4,657 were eligible, and 359 (7.7% of those eligible) enrolled. Among those enrolled, 79% reported anal sex without a condom in the previous twelve months; 51% reported anal sex under the influence of alcohol. The HIV positivity rates were as follows: Proyecto Protégete, 1.71%; the agency, 1.25% (p = .293, compared to Proyecto Protégete); and the County, 1.09% (p = .172, compared to Proyecto Protégete). The rates of those confirmed as new HIV-positives and linked to medical care within 30 days were as follows: Proyecto Protégete, 71.4%; the agency, 81.5% (p = .450, compared to Proyecto Protégete); and the County, 77.3% (p = .503, compared to Proyecto Protégete). Proyecto Protégete had a higher rate of linked referrals to prevention services than the agency’s testing program (19.5% versus 8.3%, p < .001). Proyecto Protégete experienced successes in some areas but not in others. Future research should build on Proyecto Protégete’s experiences to promote HIV-related services among Latino MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank H. Galvan
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Bienestar Human Services, Inc., Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Honghu Liu
- Division of Public Health & Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Health Services Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Biostatistics, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Ronald A. Brooks
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Bienestar Human Services, Inc., Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ying-Tung Chen
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Bienestar Human Services, Inc., Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Ricardo Mendoza Lepe
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Bienestar Human Services, Inc., Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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Gaither TW, Sigalos JT, Landovitz RJ, Mills JN, Litwin MS, Eleswarapu SV. Engagement with HIV and COVID-19 prevention: a national cross-sectional analysis of users on a geosocial networking app (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e38244. [PMID: 36026586 PMCID: PMC9512083 DOI: 10.2196/38244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Objective Methods Results Conclusions
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Gaither
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - John T Sigalos
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Raphael J Landovitz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Center for Clinical AIDS Research & Education, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jesse N Mills
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mark S Litwin
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Health Policy & Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Sriram V Eleswarapu
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Goodwin G. Social Media, Grindr, and PrEP: Sexual Health Literacy for Men Who Have Sex with Men in the Internet Age. JOURNAL OF CONSUMER HEALTH ON THE INTERNET 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/15398285.2021.1902227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gavin Goodwin
- School of Information Studies, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The WHO has set ambitious targets for hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination by 2030. In this review, we explore the possibility of HCV micro-elimination in HIV-positive (+) MSM, discussing strategies for reducing acute HCV incidence and the likely interventions required to meet these targets. RECENT FINDINGS With wider availability of directly acting antivirals (DAAs) in recent years, reductions in acute HCV incidence have been reported in some cohorts of HIV+ MSM. Recent evidence demonstrates that treatment in early infection is well tolerated, cost effective and may reduce the risk of onward transmission. Modelling studies suggest that to reduce incidence, a combination approach including behavioural interventions and access to early treatment, targeting both HIV+ and negative high-risk groups, will be required. HCV vaccine trials have not yet demonstrated efficacy in human studies, however phase one and two studies are ongoing. SUMMARY Some progress towards the WHO HCV elimination targets has been reported. Achieving sustained HCV elimination is likely to require a combination approach including early access to DAAs in acute infection and reinfection, validated and reproducible behavioural interventions and an efficacious HCV vaccine.
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Aggarwal S, Singh AK, Balaji S, Ambalkar D. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and its changing scenario: A scoping review. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2021; 25:1630-1638. [PMID: 33645477 DOI: 10.2174/1386207324666210301093001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reproductive tract infections (RTIs) have existed worldwide since ancient time, causing significant morbidity and mortality. To maintain healthy sexual and reproductive life, it is highly essential to prevent STIs, RTIs and related illnesses. STIs are transmitted by swapping body fluids among people during sexual intercourse. The etiological agents for STIs are bacteria, virus and parasites for most cases, but proportions by different aetiology are changing. Various studies have shown that STIs are increasing, and its primary aetiology is changing worldwide. That should be considered seriously and needs necessary actions. Several factors related to hosts and disease-causing agents have identified to influence STIs' current strategies in the prevention and control program. The present assessment attempts to review the history, changing aetiology and antimicrobial resistance in STIs. This review has also highlighted the prevalence of STIs at the global level and their past and present trends in India, emphasising its future challenges and perspectives for making effective public health policies to prevent and control STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Aggarwal
- Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases Division, Indian Council of Medical Research-Headquarters, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110029. India
| | - Amit Kumar Singh
- ICMR-National JALMA Institute for Leprosy and other Mycobacterial diseases, Tajgani, Agra-282004. India
| | - Sivaraman Balaji
- Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases Division, Indian Council of Medical Research-Headquarters, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110029. India
| | - Deepti Ambalkar
- Department of lab medicine, Max Super speciality hospital, Saket Delhi -110017. India
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Bistoquet M, Makinson A, Tribout V, Perrollaz C, Bourrel G, Reynes J, Oude Engberink A. Pre-exposure prophylaxis makes it possible to better live one's sexuality and guide men who have sex with men towards a responsible approach to their health: a phenomenological qualitative study about primary motivations for PrEP. AIDS Res Ther 2021; 18:2. [PMID: 33413434 PMCID: PMC7791866 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-020-00327-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV is instrumental in the prevention of HIV for HIV-uninfected persons, by drastically reducing the risk of acquisition in the case of high-risk exposures. Despite its demonstrated efficacy, it remained under-prescribed in France until 2018. The principal aim of this study was to understand the motivations of Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) who started using PrEP in Montpellier, France. Methods A phenomenological study was undertaken, using semi-structured interviews with twelve participants attending the University Hospital of Montpellier for PrEP. Interviews were analysed by means of triangulation up to the point of theoretical saturation, using a semio-pragmatic method. Results Fear of HIV infection, personalised regular follow-up, and the wish to take care of one’s health were the primary motivational factors. PrEP allows for a better sexual life restoring a sense of freedom despite the risks of STI, deemed manageable by PrEPers. PrEP does not modify long-term risk-taking behaviours but helps them better live their own sexuality and guides them towards a responsible approach to sexuality. Unclear information on PrEP, delivered by their family doctor, public campaigns or the media, leads to misrepresentations or negative social representation, including within the MSM community, which may delay its implementation. Conclusions Fear of HIV infection and the benefits of regular medical follow-up to take care of one’s health were motivational factors of importance for the use of PrEP by MSM in this study. PrEP transforms all existential dimensions of their lived experience, improving sexual identity and happiness. There is a need to improve professional awareness of the effectiveness of PrEP and to develop a patient centered approach, to disseminate information more widely to the general public and among MSM to reduce stigmatisation.
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Queiroz JF, Medeiros KS, Sarmento ACA, Monteiro MN, Cobucci RN, Stransky B, Gonçalves AK. Use of dating sites and applications by women and their risk of sexually transmitted infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e038738. [PMID: 33444190 PMCID: PMC7678376 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of social networks has been increasing worldwide. Mobile websites and applications (apps) allow people to network more quickly and have more partners for sex. This can facilitate risky sexual behaviours, such as having multiple partners and unprotected sex, which can lead to a higher incidence of sexually transmitted infections. This systematic review/meta-analysis will assess the effects of the use of dating sites and apps by women on their level of engagement in risky sexual behaviours and their incidence of sexually transmitted infections. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The Cochrane Central Controlled Trials Registry, ClinicalTrials.gov, MEDLINE, Embase, SciELO, Web of Science, Scopus and Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature will be searched for cross-sectional studies, clinical trials and observational studies published between January 1990 and July 2020. This systematic review and meta-analysis will include studies investigating the use of mobile apps by women, risky sexual behaviour and sexually transmitted infections. The outcome will be an increase in new cases of sexually transmitted infections and HIV among women using dating sites and apps. Three independent reviewers will select the studies and extract data from the original articles. The risk of bias will be assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and Risk Of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions. Data synthesis will be performed using Review Manager software (RevMan V.5.2.3). To assess heterogeneity, we will compute the I2 statistic. In addition, a quantitative synthesis will be carried out if the included studies are sufficiently homogeneous. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study will be a review of the published data, and thus ethical approval is not required. The findings of this systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42019120494.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice França Queiroz
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Kleyton Santos Medeiros
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Beatriz Stransky
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Ana Katherine Gonçalves
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
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Castro Á, Barrada JR. Dating Apps and Their Sociodemographic and Psychosocial Correlates: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E6500. [PMID: 32906632 PMCID: PMC7557852 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The emergence and popularization of dating apps have changed the way people meet and interact with potential romantic and sexual partners. In parallel with the increased use of these applications, a remarkable scientific literature has developed. However, due to the recency of the phenomenon, some gaps in the existing research can be expected. Therefore, the objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the empirical research of the psychosocial content published in the last five years (2016-2020) on dating apps. A search was conducted in different databases, and we identified 502 articles in our initial search. After screening titles and abstracts and examining articles in detail, 70 studies were included in the review. The most relevant data (author/s and year, sample size and characteristics, methodology) and their findings were extracted from each study and grouped into four blocks: user dating apps characteristics, usage characteristics, motives for use, and benefits and risks of use. The limitations of the literature consulted are discussed, as well as the practical implications of the results obtained, highlighting the relevance of dating apps, which have become a tool widely used by millions of people around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Castro
- Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas, Universidad de Zaragoza, Calle Atarazanas, 4. 44003 Teruel, Spain;
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