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Paladhi UR, Katz DA, Otieno G, Hughes JP, Thirumurthy H, Lagat H, Masyuko S, Sharma M, Macharia P, Bosire R, Mugambi M, Kariithi E, Farquhar C. Effectiveness of Using Additional HIV Self-Test Kits as an Incentive to Increase HIV Testing Within Assisted Partner Services. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:457-464. [PMID: 38985443 PMCID: PMC11237351 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003455] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Incentives have shown mixed results in increasing HIV testing rates in low-resource settings. We investigated the effectiveness of offering additional self-tests (HIVSTs) as an incentive to increase testing among partners receiving assisted partner services (APS). SETTING Western Kenya. METHODS We conducted a single-crossover study nested within a cluster-randomized controlled trial. Twenty-four facilities were randomized 1:1 to (1) control: provider-delivered testing or (2) intervention: offered 1 HIVST or provider-delivered testing for 6 months (pre-implementation), then switched to offering 2 HIVSTs for 6 months (post-implementation). A difference-in-differences approach using generalized linear mixed models, accounting for facility clustering and adjusting for age, sex, and income, was used to estimate the effect of the incentive on HIV testing and first-time testing among partners in APS. RESULTS March 2021-June 2022, 1127 index clients received APS and named 8155 partners, among whom 2333 reported a prior HIV diagnosis and were excluded from analyses, resulting in 5822 remaining partners: 3646 (62.6%) and 2176 (37.4%) in the pre-implementation and post-implementation periods, respectively. Overall, 944/2176 partners (43%) were offered a second HIVST during post-preimplementation, of whom 34.3% picked up 2 kits, of whom 71.7% reported that the second kit encouraged HIV testing. Comparing partners offered 1 vs. two HIVSTs showed no difference in HIV testing (relative risk: 1.01, 95% confidence interval: 0.951 to 1.07) or HIV testing for the first time (relative risk: 1.23, 95% confidence interval: 0.671 to 2.24). CONCLUSIONS Offering a second HIVST as an incentive within APS did not significantly impact HIV testing or first-time testing, although those opting for 2 kits reported it incentivized them to test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Unmesha Roy Paladhi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - David A. Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | - James P. Hughes
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Harison Lagat
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | | | - Mary Mugambi
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Drake AL, Jiang W, Kitao P, Farid S, Richardson BA, Katz DA, Wagner AD, Johnson CC, Matemo D, Stewart G, Kinuthia J. Preferences and uptake of home-based HIV self-testing for maternal retesting in Kenya. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302077. [PMID: 39137189 PMCID: PMC11321582 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare preferences, uptake, and cofactors for unassisted home-based oral self-testing (HB-HIVST) versus clinic-based rapid diagnostic blood tests (CB-RDT) for maternal HIV retesting. DESIGN Prospective cohort. METHODS Between November 2017 and June 2019, HIV-negative pregnant Kenyan women receiving antenatal care were enrolled and given a choice to retest with HB-HIVST or CB-RDT. Women were asked to retest between 36 weeks gestation and 1-week post-delivery if the last HIV test was <24 weeks gestation or at 6 weeks postpartum if ≥24 weeks gestation, and self-report on retesting at a 14-week postpartum. RESULTS Overall, 994 women enrolled and 33% (n = 330) selected HB-HIVST. HB-HIVST was selected because it was private (n = 224, 68%), convenient (n = 211, 63%), and offered flexibility in the timing of retesting (n = 207, 63%), whereas CB-RDT was selected due to the trust of providers to administer the test (n = 510, 77%) and convenience of clinic testing (n = 423, 64%). Among 905 women who reported retesting at follow-up, 135 (15%) used HB-HIVST. Most (n = 595, 94%) who selected CB-RDT retested with this strategy, compared to 39% (n = 120) who selected HB-HIVST retesting with HB-HIVST. HB-HIVST retesting was more common among women with higher household income and those who may have been unable to test during pregnancy (both retested postpartum and delivered <37 weeks gestation) and less common among women who were depressed. Most women said they would retest in the future using the test selected at enrollment (99% [n = 133] HB-HIVST; 93% [n = 715] CB-RDT-RDT). CONCLUSIONS While most women preferred CB-RDT for maternal retesting, HB-HIVST was acceptable and feasible and could be used to expand HIV retesting options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison L. Drake
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Wenwen Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Peninah Kitao
- Research and Programmes, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shiza Farid
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Barbra A. Richardson
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - David A. Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Anjuli D. Wagner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Cheryl C. Johnson
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Matemo
- Research and Programmes, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - GraceJohn Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - John Kinuthia
- Research and Programmes, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
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Lippman SA, Grignon JS, Ditshwane B, West RL, Gilmore HJ, Mazibuko S, Mongwe LG, Neilands TB, Gutin SA, O’Connor C, Santana MA, Majam M. Results of the Sukuma Ndoda ("Stand up, Man") HIV Self-Screening and Assisted Linkage to Care Project in Johannesburg: A Quasi-Experimental Pre-Post Evaluation. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:367-375. [PMID: 38916430 PMCID: PMC11195924 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003442] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV testing rates among South African men lag behind rates for women and national targets. Community-based HIV self-screening (HIVSS) distribution and follow-up by community health workers (CHWs) is a scalable option to increase testing coverage, diagnosis, and treatment initiation. We provided HIVSS and assisted linkage to care to men not recently tested (within the past 12 months) residing in high-HIV-burden areas of Johannesburg. METHODS CHWs distributed HIVSS in 6 clinic catchment areas. Follow-up to encourage confirmatory testing and antiretroviral therapy initiation was conducted through personal support (PS) or an automated short message service (SMS) follow-up and linkage system in 3 clinic areas each. Using a quasi-experimental pre-post design, we compared differences in the proportion of men testing in the clinic catchment areas during the HIVSS campaign (June-August 2019) to the 3 months prior (March-May 2019) and compared treatment initiations by assisted linkage strategy. RESULTS Among 4793 participants accepting HIVSS, 62% had never tested. Among 3993 participants with follow-up data, 90.6% reported using their HIVSS kit. Testing coverage among men increased by 156%, from under 4% when only clinic-based HIV testing services were available to 9.5% when HIVSS and HIV testing services were available (z = -11.6; P < 0.01). Reported test use was higher for men followed through PS (99% vs. 68% in SMS); however, significantly more men reported reactive self-test results in the SMS group compared with PS (6.4% vs. 2.0%), resulting in more antiretroviral therapy initiations in the SMS group compared with PS (23 vs. 9; P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS CHW HIVSS distribution significantly increases testing among men. While PS enabled personalized follow-up, reporting differences indicate SMS is more acceptable and better aligned with expectations of privacy associated with HIVSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri A. Lippman
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jessica S. Grignon
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Boitumelo Ditshwane
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Rebecca L. West
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Hailey J. Gilmore
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sipho Mazibuko
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Livhuwani G. Mongwe
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sarah A. Gutin
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Maideline A. Santana
- Gauteng Department of Health, Johannesburg District, Johannesburg, South Africa; and
| | - Mohammed Majam
- Ezintsha, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Hu S, Jing F, Fan C, Dai Y, Xie Y, Zhou Y, Lv H, He X, Wu D, Tucker JD, Tang W. Social network strategies to distribute HIV self-testing kits: a global systematic review and network meta-analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26342. [PMID: 39048927 PMCID: PMC11269052 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26342] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Social network strategies, in which social networks are utilized to influence individuals or communities, are increasingly being used to deliver human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) interventions to key populations. We summarized and critically assessed existing research on the effectiveness of social network strategies in promoting HIV self-testing (HIVST). METHODS Using search terms related to social network interventions and HIVST, we searched five databases for trials published between 1st January 2010 and 30th June 2023. Outcomes included uptake of HIV testing, HIV prevalence and linkage to antiretroviral therapy (ART) or HIV care. We used network meta-analysis to assess the uptake of HIV testing through social network strategies compared with control methods. A pairwise meta-analysis of studies with a comparison arm that reported outcomes was performed to assess relative risks (RR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Among the 4496 manuscripts identified, 39 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, including one quasi-experimental study, 22 randomized controlled trials and 16 observational studies. Networks HIVST testing was organized by peers (distributed to known peers, 15 studies), partners (distributed to their sexual partners, 16 studies) and peer educators (distributed to unknown peers, 8 studies). Among social networks, simulating the possibilities of ranking position, peer distribution had the highest uptake of HIV testing (84% probability), followed by partner distribution (80% probability) and peer educator distribution (74% probability). Pairwise meta-analysis showed that peer distribution (RR 2.29, 95% CI 1.54-3.39, 5 studies) and partner distribution (RR 1.76, 95% CI 1.50-2.07, 10 studies) also increased the probability of detecting HIV reactivity during testing within the key population when compared to the control. DISCUSSION All of the three social network distribution strategies enhanced the uptake of HIV testing compared to standard facility-based testing. Linkage to ART or HIV care remained comparable to facility-based testing across the three HIVST distribution strategies. CONCLUSIONS Network-based HIVST distribution is considered effective in augmenting HIV testing rates and reaching marginalized populations compared to facility-based testing. These strategies can be integrated with the existing HIV care services, to fill the testing gap among key populations globally. PROSPERO NUMBER CRD42022361782.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyue Hu
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- School of Public HealthSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
| | - Fengshi Jing
- Faculty of Data ScienceCity University of MacauTaipaChina
| | - Chengxin Fan
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
- School of Public HealthNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Yifan Dai
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- School of Public HealthSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
| | - Yewei Xie
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingapore
| | - Yi Zhou
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and PreventionZhuhaiChina
| | - Hang Lv
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and PreventionZhuhaiChina
| | - Xi He
- Zhuhai Xutong Voluntary Services CenterZhuhaiChina
| | - Dan Wu
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
- School of Public HealthNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Joseph D. Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- University of North Carolina Project – ChinaGuangzhouChina
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Roy Paladhi U, Katz DA, Otieno G, Hughes JP, Lagat H, Masyuko S, Sharma M, Macharia P, Bosire R, Mugambi M, Kariithi E, Farquhar C. Effectiveness of HIV self-testing when offered within assisted partner services in Western Kenya (APS-HIVST Study): a cluster randomized controlled trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27 Suppl 1:e26298. [PMID: 38965976 PMCID: PMC11224581 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26298] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Assisted partner services (APS) is an effective strategy for increasing HIV testing, new diagnosis, and linkage to care among sexual partners of people living with HIV (PLWH). APS can be resource intensive as it requires community tracing to locate each partner named and offer them testing. There is limited evidence for the effectiveness of offering HIV self-testing (HIVST) as an option for partner testing within APS. METHODS We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial comparing provider-delivered HIV testing (Standard APS) versus offering partners the option of provider-delivered testing or HIVST (APS+HIVST) at 24 health facilities in Western Kenya. Facilities were randomized 1:1 and we conducted intent-to-treat analyses using Poisson generalized linear mixed models to estimate intervention impact on HIV testing, new HIV diagnoses, and linkage to care. All models accounted for clustering at the clinic level and new diagnoses and linkage models were adjusted for individual-level age, sex, and income a priori. RESULTS From March to December 2021, 755 index clients received APS and named 5054 unique partners. Among these, 1408 partners reporting a prior HIV diagnosis were not eligible for HIV testing and were excluded from analyses. Of the remaining 3646 partners, 96.9% were successfully contacted for APS and tested for HIV: 2111 (97.9%) of 2157 in the APS+HIVST arm and 1422 (95.5%) of 1489 in the Standard APS arm. In the APS+HIVST arm, 84.6% (1785/2111) tested via HIVST and 15.4% (326/2111) received provider-delivered testing. Overall, 16.7% of the 3533 who tested were newly diagnosed with HIV (APS+HIVST = 357/2111 [16.9%]; Standard APS = 232/1422 [16.3%]). Of the 589 partners who were newly diagnosed, 90.7% were linked to care (APS+HIVST = 309/357 [86.6%]; Standard APS = 225/232 [97.0%]). There were no significant differences between the two arms in HIV testing (relative risk [RR]: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.96-1.10), new HIV diagnoses (adjusted RR [aRR]: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.76-1.39) or linkage to care (aRR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.74-1.06). CONCLUSIONS There were no differences between APS+HIVST and Standard APS, demonstrating that integrating HIVST into APS continues to be an effective strategy for identifying PLWH by successfully reaching and HIV testing >95% of elicited partners, newly diagnosing with HIV one in six of those tested, >90% of whom were linked to care. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER NCT04774835.
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Affiliation(s)
- Unmesha Roy Paladhi
- Department of EpidemiologySchool of Public HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - David A. Katz
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | | | - James P. Hughes
- Department of BiostatisticsUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Harison Lagat
- School of NursingUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Ministry of HealthNairobiKenya
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | | | - Rose Bosire
- Centre for Clinical ResearchKenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)NairobiKenya
| | | | | | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of EpidemiologySchool of Public HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Eger WH, Mutchler A, Santamour T, Meaders S, Pines HA, Bazzi AR, Tookes HE, Bartholomew TS. Decentralized HIV testing: comparing peer and mail-based distribution strategies to improve the reach of HIV self-testing among people who use drugs in Florida. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:116. [PMID: 38880929 PMCID: PMC11181602 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01031-9] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People who use drugs (PWUD) are at increased risk for HIV infection. HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a promising method for identifying new infections, but optimal distribution strategies remain understudied. METHODS To characterize PWUD by HIVST distribution strategy (peers vs. mail), we examined data from July 2022 to June 2023 collected from a real-world HIVST program led by the non-profit, Florida Harm Reduction Collective. We used descriptive statistics and Poisson regressions with robust error variance to compare those who received HIVST through peers or via mail by socio-demographics, Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) county designation, and HIV testing experience. RESULTS Among 728 participants, 78% received HIVST from peers, 47% identified as cisgender female, 48% as heterosexual, and 45% as non-White; 66% resided in an EHE county, and 55% had no HIV testing experience. Compared to those who received an HIV self-test from peers, those who received tests via mail were less likely to be cisgender male (vs. cisgender female; prevalence ratio [PR] = 0.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.43, 0.81), non-Hispanic Black (vs. non-Hispanic White; PR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.89) or from EHE counties (vs. non-EHE counties; PR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.25, 0.44). Those who received tests via mail were also more likely to identify their sexual orientation as "Other/Undisclosed" (vs. straight/heterosexual; PR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.51, 2.66). CONCLUSION Our findings support the role of community-based HIVST distribution strategies in increasing HIV testing coverage among PWUD. Additional research could help inform the equitable reach of HIVST.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Eger
- School of Social Work, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexa Mutchler
- Florida Harm Reduction Collective, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Tim Santamour
- Florida Harm Reduction Collective, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Shelby Meaders
- Florida Harm Reduction Collective, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
- Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Heather A Pines
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Angela R Bazzi
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hansel E Tookes
- Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Tyler S Bartholomew
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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Hlongwa M, Nicol E. Improving linkage to HIV care following a reactive HIV self-testing result among men in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:552. [PMID: 38693539 PMCID: PMC11061974 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10981-6] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the many interventions that have been implemented in sub-Saharan Africa to improve the uptake of HIV testing and antiretroviral (ART) initiation services, the rates at which men are tested for HIV and initiated on ART have remained consistently lower compared to those for women. We aim to investigate barriers and facilitators for linkage to care following HIVST positive results among men aged between 18 and 49 years, and use these findings to design an intervention to improve linkage to care among men in a high-HIV prevalent district in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. METHODS This multi-method study will be conducted over 24 months in eight purposively selected HIV testing and treatment facilities from December 2023 to November 2025. For the quantitative component, a sample of 197 HIV positive men aged 18-49 years old who link to care after HIV self-test (HIVST) will be recruited into the study. HIVST kits will be distributed to a minimum of 3000 men attending community services through mobile clinics that are supported by the Health Systems Trust, at different service delivery points, including schools, taxi ranks and other hotspots. The qualitative component will consist of in-depth interviews (IDIs) with 15 HIVST users and IDIs with 15 key informants. To design and develop acceptable, feasible, effective, and sustainable models for improving linkage to care, three groups of HIVST users (2*positive (N = 12) and 1*negative (N = 12)) will be purposively select to participate in a design workshop. Chi square tests will be used to identify social and demographic factors associated with linkage, while logistic regression will be used to identify independent factors. Kaplan Meier curves and cox proportional hazard models will be used to identify factors associated with time to event. Content and thematic approaches will be used to analyze the qualitative data. DISCUSSION There remains an urgent need for designing and implementing innovative intervention strategies that are convenient and tailored for addressing the needs of men for improving HIV testing and linkage to care at early stages in resource-limited settings, to improve individual health outcomes, reduce transmission from HIV and minimize HIV-related mortality rates. Our proposed study offers several important innovations aimed at improving linkage to care among men. Our study targets men, as they lag the HIV continuum but are also under-researched in public health studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Public Health, Societies and Belonging, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa.
- School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Edward Nicol
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Drake AL, Jiang W, Kitao P, Farid S, Richardson BA, Katz DA, Wagner AD, Johnson CC, Matemo D, Stewart GJ, Kinuthia J. Preferences and uptake of home-based HIV self-testing for maternal retesting in Kenya. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.03.28.24305050. [PMID: 38585992 PMCID: PMC10996825 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.28.24305050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Objective To compare preferences, uptake, and cofactors for unassisted home-based oral self-testing (HB-HIVST) versus clinic-based rapid diagnostic blood tests (CB-RDT) for maternal HIV retesting. Design Prospective cohort. Methods Between November 2017 and June 2019, HIV-negative pregnant Kenyan women receiving antenatal care were enrolled and given a choice to retest with HB-HIVST or CB-RDT. Women were asked to retest between 36 weeks gestation and 1 week post-delivery if the last HIV test was <24 weeks gestation or at 6 weeks postpartum if ≥24 weeks gestation, and self-report on retesting at a 14 week postpartum. Results Overall, 994 women enrolled and 33% (n=330) selected HB-HIVST. HB-HIVST was selected because it was private (68%), convenient (63%), and offered flexibility in timing of retesting (63%), whereas CB-RDT was selected due to trust of providers to administer the test (77%) and convenience of clinic testing (64%). Among 905 women who reported retesting at follow-up, 135 (15%) used HB-HIVST. Most (94%) who selected CB-RDT retested with this strategy, compared to 39% who selected HB-HIVST retesting with HB-HIVST. HB-HIVST retesting was more common among women with higher household income and those who may have been unable to test during pregnancy (both retested postpartum and delivered <37 weeks gestation) and less common among women who were depressed. Most women said they would retest in the future using the test selected at enrollment (99% HB-HIVST; 93% CB-RDT-RDT). Conclusions While most women preferred CB-RDT for maternal retesting, HB-HIVST was acceptable and feasible and may increase retesting coverage and partner testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison L Drake
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Wenwen Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peninah Kitao
- Research and Programmes, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shiza Farid
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Barbra A Richardson
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - David A Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Anjuli D Wagner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cheryl C Johnson
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Matemo
- Research and Programmes, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Grace-John Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John Kinuthia
- Research and Programmes, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
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Simwinga M, Gwanu L, Hensen B, Sigande L, Mainga M, Phiri T, Mwanza E, Kabumbu M, Mulubwa C, Mwenge L, Bwalya C, Kumwenda M, Mubanga E, Mee P, Johnson CC, Corbett EL, Hatzold K, Neuman M, Ayles H, Taegtmeyer M. Lessons learned from implementation of four HIV self-testing (HIVST) distribution models in Zambia: applying the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to understand impact of contextual factors on implementation. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 22:977. [PMID: 38448832 PMCID: PMC10916003 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09168-5] [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: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Zambia has integrated HIV-self-testing (HIVST) into its Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) regulatory frameworks, few best practices to optimize the use of HIV self-testing to increase testing coverage have been documented. We conducted a prospective case study to understand contextual factors guiding implementation of four HIVST distribution models to inform scale-up in Zambia. METHODS We used the qualitative case study method to explore user and provider experiences with four HIVST distribution models (two secondary distribution models in Antenatal Care (ANC) and Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) clinics, community-led, and workplace) to understand factors influencing HIVST distribution. Participants were purposefully selected based on their participation in HIVST and on their ability to provide rich contextual experience of the distribution models. Data were collected using observations (n = 31), group discussions (n = 10), and in-depth interviews (n = 77). Data were analyzed using the thematic approach and aligned to the four Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) domains. RESULTS Implementation of the four distribution models was influenced by an interplay of outer and inner setting factors. Inadequate compensation and incentives for distributors may have contributed to distributor attrition in the community-led and workplace HIVST models. Stockouts, experienced at the start of implementation in the secondary-distribution and community-led distribution models often disrupted distribution. The existence of policy and practices aided integration of HIVST in the workplace. External factors complimented internal factors for successful implementation. For instance, despite distributor attrition leading to excessive workload, distributors often multi-tasked to keep up with demand for kits, even though distribution points were geographically widespread in the workplace, and to a less extent in the community-led models. Use of existing communication platforms such as lunchtime and safety meetings to promote and distribute kits, peers to support distributors, reduction in trips by distributors to replenish stocks, increase in monetary incentives and reorganisation of stakeholder roles proved to be good adaptations. CONCLUSION HIVST distribution was influenced by a combination of contextual factors in variable ways. Understanding how the factors interacted in real world settings informed adaptations to implementation devised to minimize disruptions to distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bernadette Hensen
- Department of Public Health, Sexual and Reproductive Health Group, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Moses Kumwenda
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Ellen Mubanga
- National HIV/AID/STI/TB Council (NAC), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Paul Mee
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Medical Research Council International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Cheryl C Johnson
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Elizabeth L Corbett
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Karin Hatzold
- Population Services International, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Melissa Neuman
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Medical Research Council International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Helen Ayles
- Zambart, Lusaka, Zambia
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Miriam Taegtmeyer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Unit, Liverpool University Hospitals Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
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McGee K, d'Elbée M, Dekova R, Sande LA, Dube L, Masuku S, Dlamini M, Mangenah C, Mwenge L, Johnson C, Hatzold K, Neuman M, Meyer-Rath G, Terris-Prestholt F. Costs of distributing HIV self-testing kits in Eswatini through community and workplace models. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 22:976. [PMID: 38424538 PMCID: PMC10902928 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08694-y] [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: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluates the implementation and running costs of an HIV self-testing (HIVST) distribution program in Eswatini. HIVST kits were delivered through community-based and workplace models using primary and secondary distribution. Primary clients could self-test onsite or offsite. This study presents total running economic costs of kit distribution per model between April 2019 and March 2020, and estimates average cost per HIVST kit distributed, per client self-tested, per client self-tested reactive, per client confirmed positive, and per client initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART). METHODS Distribution data and follow-up phone interviews were analysed to estimate implementation outcomes. Results were presented for each step of the care cascade using best-case and worst-case scenarios. A top-down incremental cost-analysis was conducted from the provider perspective using project expenditures. Sensitivity and scenario analyses explored effects of economic and epidemiological parameters on average costs. RESULTS Nineteen thousand one hundred fifty-five HIVST kits were distributed to 13,031 individuals over a 12-month period, averaging 1.5 kits per recipient. 83% and 17% of kits were distributed via the community and workplace models, respectively. Clients reached via the workplace model were less likely to opt for onsite testing than clients in the community model (8% vs 29%). 6% of onsite workplace testers tested reactive compared to 2% of onsite community testers. Best-case scenario estimated 17,458 (91%) clients self-tested, 633 (4%) received reactive-test results, 606 (96%) linked to confirmatory testing, and 505 (83%) initiated ART. Personnel and HIVST kits represented 60% and 32% of total costs, respectively. Average costs were: per kit distributed US$17.23, per client tested US$18.91, per client with a reactive test US$521.54, per client confirmed positive US$550.83, and per client initiating ART US$708.60. Lower rates for testing, reactivity, and linkage to care in the worst-case scenario resulted in higher average costs along the treatment cascade. CONCLUSION This study fills a significant evidence gap regarding costs of HIVST provision along the client care cascade in Eswatini. Workplace and community-based distribution of HIVST accompanied with effective linkage to care strategies can support countries to reach cascade objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen McGee
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Marc d'Elbée
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Linda A Sande
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Sanele Masuku
- Population Services International, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | | | - Collin Mangenah
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Cheryl Johnson
- World Health Organisation, Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Karin Hatzold
- Population Services International, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Melissa Neuman
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Gesine Meyer-Rath
- Center for Global Heath and Development, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, USA
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Fern Terris-Prestholt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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11
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Bien-Gund CH, Sarbaugh M, Perrine L, Dugosh K, Gross R, Fishman J. Salient beliefs related to secondary distribution of COVID-19 self-test kits within social networks. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1337745. [PMID: 38476496 PMCID: PMC10927981 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1337745] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Widespread access to testing is critical to public health efforts to control the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary distribution of COVID-19 self-test kits, where an individual distributes test kits to others in their social networks, is a potential strategy to improve access to testing. In this qualitative study, we identified salient beliefs about distributing and accepting COVID-19 self-test kits within one's social network, as well as ordering COVID-19 self-test kits from the government. Methods We recruited 61 participants from a randomized controlled trial (NCT04797858) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to elicit beliefs about (1) distributing COVID-19 self-test kits within one's social network, (2) receiving test kits from social contacts, and (3) ordering self-test kits from the government. Using validated, open-ended question stems, we identified the most common set of beliefs underlying attitudes, perceived norms (or social referents), and perceived behavioral control (or self-efficacy) toward each of these behaviors. Results Twenty-seven out of 30 (90%) of participants who received self-test kits reported distributing the kits to social contacts. These participants described altruistic beliefs about giving others access to testing, and felt approval from family members, friends, and others in their social networks. When receiving test kits from social network contacts, participants described advantages of test kit convenience, but some voiced concern about test kit tampering and confusing instructions. Participants also described perceived logistic barriers to distributing and receiving self-test kits, such as delivering or transporting test kits, or finding time to meet. Participants who ordered test kits from the government also described increased convenience of test access, but described different logistic barriers such as delays in test kit delivery, or not receiving test kits at all. Conclusion In comparison with government-ordered test kits, the secondary distribution of COVID-19 self-test kits raised unique concerns about test kit quality and instructions, as well as distinctive logistic barriers related to distributing self-test kits to network contacts, which were not raised for test kits ordered from the government. This study demonstrates that beliefs may vary depending on the type of testing behavior, and behavioral interventions may benefit from developing messages tailored to specific testing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric H. Bien-Gund
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Molly Sarbaugh
- Public Health Management Corporation, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lily Perrine
- Public Health Management Corporation, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Karen Dugosh
- Public Health Management Corporation, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Robert Gross
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jessica Fishman
- Annenberg School of Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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12
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Belus JM, Msimango LI, van Heerden A, Magidson JF, Bradley VD, Mdakane Y, van Rooyen H, Barnabas RV. Barriers, Facilitators, and Strategies to Improve Participation of a Couple-Based Intervention to Address Women's Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:75-84. [PMID: 36854871 PMCID: PMC10803380 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10160-7] [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] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Couple-based interventions (CBIs), despite strong efficacy in improving numerous HIV risk behaviors, are not widely available and have not been tested to improve women's antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. We examined barriers and facilitators to participation in a CBI based on cognitive behavioral couple therapy for women's ART adherence in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women with HIV (n = 15) and men of mixed HIV status (n = 15). Thematic analyses were guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. RESULTS Facilitators mostly related to the couple's relationship, including having an existing healthy relationship, men's desire to support their partners, and a potential opportunity for men's HIV disclosure. Barriers included a lack of understanding of how a CBI approach would be useful for women's ART adherence, sole focus on women if male partners were also living with HIV, and men's lack of prior HIV status disclosure to female partners. CONCLUSION Findings indicate that relationship context and the male partner's HIV status need to be addressed during recruitment, enrolment, and during the intervention to promote uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Belus
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Lindani I Msimango
- Center for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Alastair van Heerden
- Center for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- MRC/WITS Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jessica F Magidson
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Valerie D Bradley
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Yvonne Mdakane
- Center for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Heidi van Rooyen
- MRC/WITS Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- The Impact Centre, Human Sciences Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ruanne V Barnabas
- Global Health and Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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13
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Pines HA, Eger WH, Skaathun B, Vera CF, Harvey-Vera A, Rangel G, Strathdee SA, Bazzi AR. Willingness to use and distribute HIV self-testing kits among people who inject drugs in the San Diego-Tijuana border region. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:4. [PMID: 38172795 PMCID: PMC10765917 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00922-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV self-testing (HIVST) could increase HIV testing access among people who inject drugs (PWID), and secondary distribution (i.e., peer-delivery) of HIVST kits in PWID social networks could further expand coverage. We assessed willingness to use and distribute HIVST kits among PWID in the San Diego-Tijuana border region. METHODS From 2020 to 2021, HIV-negative PWID in San Diego, USA, and Tijuana, Mexico, completed surveys and provided data on individual (N = 539) and social network (N = 366) characteristics. We used modified Poisson regression to examine the effects of individual and social network characteristics on willingness to use and distribute HIVST kits. RESULTS Most participants were willing to use (81%) and distribute (81%) HIVST kits. At the individual level, prior HIV testing was positively associated with willingness to use (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10-1.40) and distribute (aPR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.12-1.43) HIVST kits, while perceiving oneself to be at higher HIV risk than others was negatively associated with willingness to use HIVST kits (aPR = 0.83, 95% CI 0.74-0.93). At the network level, willingness to distribute HIVST kits was positively associated with network size (aPR = 1.04 per member, 95% CI 1.01-1.08) and greater proportions of one's network encouraging them to use drugs (aPR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.16-1.44) and having a history of homelessness (aPR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.31-1.74) or detention/arrest (aPR = 1.57, 95% CI 1.36-1.82), and negatively associated with a greater proportion of one's network including "very close" persons (aPR = 0.80, 95% CI 0.69-0.94). CONCLUSIONS We found high potential for HIVST kits and their secondary distribution to increase HIV testing among PWID who face the greatest barriers to facility-based testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather A Pines
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - William H Eger
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- School of Social Work, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Britt Skaathun
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Carlos F Vera
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alicia Harvey-Vera
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Gudelia Rangel
- Mexico Section of the US-Mexico Border Health Commission, Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
- El Colegio de la Frontera Norte, Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | | | - Angela R Bazzi
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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14
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Zhou H, Zhu YY, Gao YY, Chu ZX, Chen S, Liu M, Jiang YJ, Hu QH, Shang H. Online distribution of HIV self-testing kits to promote HIV testing among men who have sex with men discontinuing pre-exposure prophylaxis after demonstration project completion in China: a multicentre open-label randomized controlled trial. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 41:100922. [PMID: 37867621 PMCID: PMC10587720 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2023.100922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Background HIV self-testing (HIVST) offers potential solutions to challenges associated with site-based HIV testing (SBHT). However, the effectiveness of HIVST as an HIV prevention strategy for men who have sex with men (MSM) discontinuing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) after the completion of PrEP demonstration project has rarely been assessed. Methods The China Real-world Study of Oral PrEP (CROPrEP) project was conducted in four cities in China. Participants were directed to community resources to continue their PrEP medication after the discontinuation of project-provided PrEP at the last CROPrEP visit. We conducted a multicentre open-label randomized controlled trial among MSM who had discontinued PrEP induced by the completion of CROPrEP. Eligible participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group (1:1). Participants received regular health education and behavioural interventions throughout the trial. The intervention group was given a link to order free HIVST kits online, while the control group received information about free SBHT. Both groups completed internet-based follow-up surveys at three and six months. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants who underwent HIV testing during the six-month follow-up period. This trial was registered at chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2000038416). Findings Between November 2020 and January 2021, we recruited a total of 620 participants (300 in the intervention group and 320 in the control group). The follow-up completion rates were 99·0% and 95·0% in the intervention and control groups, respectively. At baseline, the median age of participants was 32 (interquartile range: 26-37), and 77·7% underwent HIV testing in the past three months. The proportion of participants who underwent HIV testing in the past three months was higher in the intervention group than in the control group at both the three-month (adjusted risk difference [RD]: 36·7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 35·1-38·5, p < 0·001) and six-month (RD: 26·7, 95% CI: 24·6-28·7 p < 0·001) follow-up periods. Interpretation Our study suggests that providing online distribution of HIVST kits for MSM with PrEP discontinuation induced by completion of the PrEP project effectively promoted HIV testing. This digital approach improves access to HIV testing for MSM and can be applicable to other settings where MSM turn to online public health services. Funding The study was funded by the Fund of National Natural Science Foundation of China; the Mega-Projects of National Science Research for the 13th Five-Year Plan; and the Liaoning Revitalization Talents Program, China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhou
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Yan Zhu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang-Yang Gao
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhen-Xing Chu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuo Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Miao Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Jun Jiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qing-Hai Hu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Shang
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
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Matovu JKB, Kemigisha L, Taasi G, Musinguzi J, Wanyenze RK, Serwadda D. Secondary distribution of HIV self-test kits from males to their female sexual partners in two fishing communities in rural Uganda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002477. [PMID: 38019783 PMCID: PMC10686447 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Secondary distribution of HIV self-test kits from females to their male partners has increased HIV testing rates in men but little evidence exists on the potential for HIV self-test kits distribution from males to their female partners. We assessed the acceptability of secondary HIV self-test kits distribution from males to their female sexual partners in a fishing community context. This secondary analysis used data from the PEer-led HIV Self-Testing intervention for MEN (PEST4MEN), a pilot interventional study in Buvuma and Kalangala districts in Uganda. At the baseline visit, in July 2022, data were collected from 400 men aged 15+ years who self-reported a HIV-negative or unknown HIV status. Enrolled men were asked to pick two oral fluid HIV self-test kits from a trained male distributor. At the first follow-up visit, in September 2022, men were asked about the number of kits that they received and if they gave kits to anyone, including to their female sexual partners. We used a modified Poisson regression model to determine the factors independently associated with giving kits to sexual partners. Data were analyzed using STATA version 16.0. Of 361 men interviewed at follow-up, 98.3% (355) received at least one kit; 79.7% (283) received two kits. Of those who received two kits, 64% (181) gave the second kit to anyone else; of these, 74.6% (132/177) gave it to a sexual partner. Being currently married (adjusted prevalence ratio [adj. PR] = 1.39; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.10, 1.75) and having difficulty in reading text prepared in the local language (adj. PR = 1.26; 95%CI: 1.03, 1.55) were significantly associated with men giving kits to their female sexual partners. Ninety-seven per cent (112/132) of the men reported that they knew their sexual partners' HIV self-test results. Of these, 93.7% (n = 105) reported that their partners were HIV-negative while 6.3% (n = 7) reported that they were HIV-positive. Only 28.6% (n = 2) of the HIV-positive sexual partners were reported to have initiated HIV care. Secondary distribution of HIV self-test kits from males to their female sexual partners is well accepted by women in the fishing communities, suggesting that distribution of kits through men in the fishing communities can help to improve HIV testing uptake among their female sexual partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K. B. Matovu
- Busitema University Faculty of Health Sciences, Mbale, Uganda
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Linda Kemigisha
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - David Serwadda
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
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Hu S, Jing F, Fan C, Dai Y, Xie Y, Zhou Y, Lv H, He X, Wu D, Tucker JD, Tang W. Social Network Strategies to Distribute HIV Self-testing Kits: A Global Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.11.05.23298135. [PMID: 37986939 PMCID: PMC10659482 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.05.23298135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Social network strategies, in which social networks are utilized to influence individuals or communities, are increasingly being used to deliver human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) interventions to key populations. We summarized and critically assessed existing research on the effectiveness of social network strategies in promoting HIV self-testing (HIVST). Methods Using search terms related to social network interventions and HIVST, we searched five databases for trials published between January 1st, 2010, and June 30th, 2023. Outcomes included uptake of HIV testing, HIV seroconversion, and linkage to antiretroviral therapy (ART) or HIV Care. We used network meta-analysis to assess the uptake of HIV testing through social network strategies compared with control methods. A pairwise meta-analysis of studies with a comparison arm that reported outcomes was performed to assess relative risks (RR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results and discussion Among the 3,745 manuscripts identified, 33 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, including one quasi-experimental study, 17 RCTs and 15 observational studies. Networks HIVST testing was organized by peers (distributed to known peers, 15 studies), partners (distributed to their sexual partners, 10 studies), and peer educators (distributed to unknown peers, 8 studies). The results showed that all of the three social network distribution strategies enhanced the uptake of HIV testing compared to standard facility-based testing. Among social networks, peer distribution had the highest uptake of HIV testing (79% probability, SUCRA 0.92), followed by partner distribution (72% probability, SUCRA 0.71), and peer educator distribution (66% probability, SUCRA 0.29). Pairwise meta-analysis showed that peer distribution (RR 2.29, 95% CI 1.54-3.39, 5 studies) and partner distribution (RR 1.45, 95% CI 1.05-2.02, 7 studies) also increased the probability of detecting HIV reactivity during testing within the key population when compared to the control. Linkage to ART or HIV Care remained comparable to facility-based testing across the three HIVST distribution strategies. Conclusions Network-based HIVST distribution is considered effective in augmenting HIV testing rates and reaching marginalized populations compared to facility-based testing. These strategies can be integrated with the existing HIV care services, to fill the testing gap among key populations globally.PROSPERO Number: CRD42022361782.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyue Hu
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fengshi Jing
- Faculty of Data Science, City University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Chengxin Fan
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yifan Dai
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yewei Xie
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Yi Zhou
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Hang Lv
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xi He
- Zhuhai Xutong Voluntary Services Center, Zhuhai, China
| | - Dan Wu
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joseph D. Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project – China, Guangzhou, China
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Wairimu N, Malen RC, Reedy AM, Mogere P, Njeru I, Culquichicón C, McGowan M, Gao F, Baeten JM, Ngure K, Ortblad KF. Peer PrEP referral + HIV self-test delivery for PrEP initiation among young Kenyan women: study protocol for a hybrid cluster-randomized controlled trial. Trials 2023; 24:705. [PMID: 37925450 PMCID: PMC10625301 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07734-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is highly effective, but uptake remains low in Africa, especially among young women who are a priority population for HIV prevention services. HIV self-testing (HIVST) has been proven to increase HIV testing in diverse populations but has been underutilized to support linkage to HIV prevention services. Most young women who initiate PrEP in Africa do so through informal peer referral. We wanted to test a model of formalized peer referral enhanced with HIVST delivery among young Kenyan women. METHODS The Peer PrEP Trial is a two-arm hybrid effectiveness-implementation cluster-randomized controlled trial being conducted in central Kenya. Eligible participants (i.e., peer providers, n = 80) are women (≥ 16-24 years) refilling or initiating PrEP at public healthcare clinics who can identify at least four peers who could benefit from PrEP and not enrolled in another HIV study. Peer providers will be 1:1 randomized to (1) formal peer PrEP referral + HIVST delivery, where they will be encouraged to refer four peers (i.e., peer clients, ≥ 16-24 years) using educational materials and HIVST kits (two per peer client), or (2) informal peer PrEP referral, where they are encouraged to refer four peer clients using informal word-of-mouth referral. In both arms, peer providers will deliver a standard PrEP referral card with information on nearby public clinics delivering PrEP services. Peer providers will complete surveys at baseline and 3 months; peer clients will complete surveys at 3 months. Our primary outcome is PrEP initiation among peer clients, as reported by peer providers at 3 months. Secondary outcomes include PrEP continuation (any refilling), HIV testing (past 3 months), sexual behaviors (past month), and PrEP adherence (past month) among peer clients, as reported by both peer providers and clients at 3 months. Implementation outcomes will include participants' perceived acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of the intervention as well assessments of the intervention's fidelity and cost. DISCUSSION Evidence from this trial will help us understand how HIVST could support health systems by facilitating linkage to PrEP services among young women who could benefit in Kenya and similar settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04982250. Registered on July 29, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Njeri Wairimu
- Partners in Health and Research Development, Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rachel C Malen
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, USA
| | - Adriana M Reedy
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, USA
| | - Peter Mogere
- Partners in Health and Research Development, Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Irene Njeru
- Partners in Health and Research Development, Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Carlos Culquichicón
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Maureen McGowan
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fei Gao
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, USA
- Vaccine and Infectious Diseases Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, USA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Katrina F Ortblad
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, USA.
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18
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Gottert A, Pulerwitz J, Conserve DF. Providing HIV Self-Tests to Adolescent Girls to Promote Partner and Couples Testing: A Welcome Addition to the HIV Prevention Toolbox (With Caveats). J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:614-615. [PMID: 37716713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ann Gottert
- Population Council, Social and Behavioral Science Research division, Washington, D.C
| | - Julie Pulerwitz
- Population Council, Social and Behavioral Science Research division, Washington, D.C.; Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C
| | - Donaldson F Conserve
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C
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19
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Wango GN, Chakrabarti A, Bair EF, Thirumurthy H, Ochillo M, Okumu O, Oluoch L, Kemunto E, Bosire R, Napierala S, Agot K. Access to Oral Fluid-Based Human Immunodeficiency Virus Self-Tests Increases Testing Among Male Partners of Adolescent Girls in Kenya: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:632-639. [PMID: 37074238 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among adolescent girls (AGs) may be reduced if they know the HIV status of their male partners. We assessed the ability of AGs in Siaya County, Kenya, to offer HIV self-tests to their partners to promote partner and couples testing. METHODS Eligible AGs were 15-19 years old, self-tested HIV-negative, and had a male partner not tested in the past 6 months. Participants were randomly assigned to receive two oral fluid-based self-tests (intervention arm) or a referral coupon for facility-based testing (comparison arm). The intervention included counseling on ways to safely introduce self-tests to partners. Follow-up surveys were conducted within 3 months. RESULTS Among 349 AGs enrolled, median age was 17 years (interquartile range 16-18), 88.3% of primary partners were noncohabiting boyfriends, and 37.5% were unaware if their partner had ever tested. At 3 months, 93.9% of the intervention arm and 73.9% of the comparison arm reported that partner testing occurred. Compared to the comparison arm, partner testing was more likely in the intervention arm (risk ratio = 1.27; 95% confidence interval 1.15-1.40; p < .001). Among participants whose partners got tested, 94.1% and 81.5% in the intervention and comparison arms, respectively, reported that couples testing occurred; couples testing was more likely in the intervention than comparison arm (risk ratio = 1.15; 95% confidence interval 1.15-1.27; p = .003). Five participants reported partner violence, one study-related. DISCUSSION Provision of multiple self-tests to AGs for the purpose of promoting partner and couples testing should be considered in Kenya and other settings where AGs face a high risk of HIV acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gift-Noelle Wango
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Snohomish County Health District, Everett, Washington
| | - Averi Chakrabarti
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Elizabeth F Bair
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Marylyn Ochillo
- Division of Research, Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Olivia Okumu
- Division of Research, Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Lennah Oluoch
- Division of Research, Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Ezina Kemunto
- Division of Research, Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Risper Bosire
- Division of Research, Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Sue Napierala
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, California
| | - Kawango Agot
- Division of Research, Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya.
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20
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Kra AK, Fotso AS, N’guessan KN, Geoffroy O, Younoussa S, Kabemba OK, Gueye PA, Ndeye PD, Rouveau N, Boily MC, Silhol R, d’Elbée M, Maheu-Giroux M, Vautier A, Larmarange J. Can HIV self-testing reach first-time testers? A telephone survey among self-test end users in Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, and Senegal. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 22:972. [PMID: 37749490 PMCID: PMC10518917 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08626-w] [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: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coverage of HIV testing remains sub-optimal in West Africa. Between 2019 and 2022, the ATLAS program distributed ~400 000 oral HIV self-tests (HIVST) in Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, and Senegal, prioritising female sex workers (FSW) and men having sex with men (MSM), and relying on secondary redistribution of HIVST to partners, peers and clients to reach individuals not tested through conventional testing. This study assesses the proportion of first-time testers among HIVST users and the associated factors. METHODS A phone-based survey was implemented among HIVST users recruited using dedicated leaflets inviting them to anonymously call a free phone number. We collected socio-demographics, sexual behaviours, HIV testing history, HIVST use, and satisfaction with HIVST. We reported the proportion of first-time testers and computed associated factors using logistic regression. RESULTS Between March and June 2021, 2 615 participants were recruited for 50 940 distributed HIVST (participation rate: 5.1%). Among participants, 30% received their HIVST kit through secondary distribution (from a friend, sexual partner, family member, or colleague). The proportion who had never tested for HIV before HIVST (first-time testers) was 41%. The main factors associated with being a first-time tester were sex, age group, education level, condom use, and secondary distribution. A higher proportion was observed among those aged 24 years or less (55% vs 32% for 25-34, aOR: 0.37 [95%CI: 0.30-0.44], and 26% for 35 years or more, aOR: 0.28 [0.21-0.37]); those less educated (48% for none/primary education vs 45% for secondary education, aOR: 0.60 [0.47-0.77], and 29% for higher education, aOR: 0.33 [0.25-0.44]). A lower proportion was observed among women (37% vs 43%, aOR: 0.49 [0.40-0.60]); those reporting always using a condom over the last year (36% vs 51% for those reporting never using them, aOR: 2.02 [1.59-2.56]); and those who received their HISVST kit through primary distribution (39% vs 46% for secondary distribution, aOR: 1.32 [1.08-1.60]). CONCLUSION ATLAS HIVST strategy, including secondary distribution, successfully reached a significant proportion of first-time testers. HIVST has the potential to reach underserved populations and contribute to the expansion of HIV testing services in West Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsène Kouassi Kra
- Centre Population et Développement (Ceped), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Arlette Simo Fotso
- Centre Population et Développement (Ceped), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Paris, France
- Institut National d’Etudes Démographiques (INED), Aubervilliers, France
| | | | - Olivier Geoffroy
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Sidibé Younoussa
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Bamako, Mali
| | - Odé Kanku Kabemba
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Bamako, Mali
| | - Papa Alioune Gueye
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Pauline Dama Ndeye
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Nicolas Rouveau
- Centre Population et Développement (Ceped), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Claude Boily
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Romain Silhol
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Marc d’Elbée
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research UMR 1219, Research Institute for Sustainable Development EMR 271, Bordeaux Population Health Centre, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Mathieu Maheu-Giroux
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A2 Canada
| | - Anthony Vautier
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Joseph Larmarange
- Centre Population et Développement (Ceped), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - on behalf of the ATLAS team
- Centre Population et Développement (Ceped), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Université Paris Cité, Inserm, Paris, France
- Institut National d’Etudes Démographiques (INED), Aubervilliers, France
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Bamako, Mali
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé (Solthis), Dakar, Sénégal
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research UMR 1219, Research Institute for Sustainable Development EMR 271, Bordeaux Population Health Centre, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A2 Canada
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Mujugira A, Nakyanzi A, Donnell D, Boyer J, Stein G, Bulterys M, Naddunga F, Kyomugisha J, Birungi JE, Ssendiwala P, Nsubuga R, Muwonge TR, Musinguzi J, Sharma M, Celum CL. Partner testing with HIV self-test distribution by Ugandan pregnant women living with HIV: a randomized trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26156. [PMID: 37675834 PMCID: PMC10483500 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Secondary distribution of HIV self-tests (HIVST) by HIV-negative pregnant women to male partners increases men's testing rates. We examined whether this strategy promotes male partner testing for pregnant women living with HIV (PWLHIV). METHODS We conducted an open-label individually randomized trial in Kampala, Uganda, in which PWLHIV ≥18 years who reported a partner of unknown HIV status were randomized 2:1 to secondary distribution of HIVST for male partner(s) or standard-of-care (SOC; invitation letter to male partner for fast-track testing). Women were followed until 12 months post-partum. Male partners were offered confirmatory HIV testing and facilitated linkage to antiretroviral treatment (ART) or oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Using intention-to-treat analysis, primary outcomes were male partner testing at the clinic and initiation on PrEP or ART evaluated through 12 months post-partum (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03484533). RESULTS From November 2018 to March 2020, 500 PWLHIV were enrolled with a median age of 27 years (interquartile range [IQR] 23-30); 332 were randomized to HIVST and 168 to SOC with 437 PWLHIV (87.4%) completing 12 months follow-up post-partum. Of 236 male partners who tested at the clinic and enrolled (47.2%), their median age was 31 years (IQR 27-36), 45 (88.3%) men with HIV started ART and 113 (61.1%) HIV-negative men started PrEP. There was no intervention effect on male partner testing (hazard ratio [HR] 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.79-1.37) or time to ART or PrEP initiation (HR 0.96; 95% CI: 0.69-1.33). Two male partners and two infants acquired HIV for an incidence of 0.99 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 0.12-3.58) and 1.46 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 0.18%-5.28%), respectively. Social harms related to study participation were experienced by six women (HIVST = 5, SOC = 1). CONCLUSIONS Almost half of the partners of Ugandan PWLHIV tested for HIV with similar HIV testing rates and linkage to ART or PrEP among the secondary distribution of HIVST and SOC arms. Although half of men became aware of their HIV serostatus and linked to services, additional strategies to reach male partners of women in antenatal care are needed to increase HIV testing and linkage to services among men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Mujugira
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Agnes Nakyanzi
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | | | - Jade Boyer
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Gabrielle Stein
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Michelle Bulterys
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Faith Naddunga
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | | | | | - Paul Ssendiwala
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Rogers Nsubuga
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | | | | | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Connie L. Celum
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Olakunde BO, Alemu D, Conserve DF, Mathai M, Mak’anyengo MO, Mayo-Wilson LJ. Awareness of and willingness to use oral HIV self-test kits among Kenyan young adults living in informal urban settlements: a cross-sectional survey. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1259-1269. [PMID: 35266433 PMCID: PMC9463408 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2050176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Self-administered HIV testing may be a promising strategy to improve testing in hard-to-reach young adults, provided they are aware of and willing to use oral HIV self-testing (HIVST). This study examined awareness of and willingness to use oral HIVST among 350 high-risk young adults, aged 18-22, living in Kenya's informal urban settlements. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to examine differences in HIVST awareness and willingness by demographic and sexual risk factors. Findings showed that most participants were male (56%) and less than 20 years old (60%). Awareness of oral HIVST was low (19%). However, most participants (75%) were willing to use an oral HIV self-test in the future and ask their sex partner(s) to self-test before having sex (77%). Women (OR = 1.80, 95%CI:1.11, 2.92), older participants (aged 20+) (OR = 2.57, 95% CI:1.48, 4.46), and more educated participants (OR = 2.25, 95%CI:1.36, 3.70) were more willing to use HIVST as compared to men, teen-aged, and less educated participants, respectively. Young adults who reported recent engagement in high-risk sexual behaviors, such as unprotected sex, sex while high or drunk, or sex exchange, were significantly less likely to be willing to use an oral HIV self-test kit (OR = 0.34, 95%CI:0.13,0.86). Those with the highest monthly income (OR = 0.47, 95%CI: 0.25, 0.89) were also less willing to use HIVST. More community- and peer-based efforts are needed to highlight the range of benefits of HIVST (i.e., social, clinical, and structural) to appeal to various youth demographics, in addition to addressing concerns relating to HIVST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babayemi O. Olakunde
- National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, 3, Ziguinchor Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, Nigeria USA
| | - Dawit Alemu
- Ohio University, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Social Medicine, 204 Grosvenor Hall, Athens, OH 45701 USA
| | - Donaldson F. Conserve
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Department of Prevention and Community Health, 950 New Hampshire Ave, Washington, DC 20052 USA
| | - Muthoni Mathai
- University of Nairobi, College of Health Sciences, Department of Psychiatry. Kenyatta National Hospital, Off-Ngong Road, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Margaret O. Mak’anyengo
- National Health and Development Organization (NAHEDO), Kenyatta National Hospital, Department of Mental Health, Ralph Bunche Road, P.O. Box 20453, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - NAHEDO Study Group
- National Health and Development Organization (NAHEDO), Kenyatta National Hospital, Department of Mental Health, Ralph Bunche Road, P.O. Box 20453, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Indiana University School of Public Health, Department of Applied Health Sciences, 1025 E. 7th Street, Bloomington IN 47405 USA
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of International Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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23
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Dovel K, Balakasi K, Phiri K, Shaba F, Offorjebe OA, Gupta SK, Wong V, Lungu E, Nichols BE, Masina T, Worku A, Hoffman R, Nyirenda M. Effect of index HIV self-testing for sexual partners of clients enrolled in antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs in Malawi: A randomized controlled trial. PLoS Med 2023; 20:e1004270. [PMID: 37540649 PMCID: PMC10403056 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV testing among the sexual partners of HIV-positive clients is critical for case identification and reduced transmission in southern and eastern Africa. HIV self-testing (HIVST) may improve uptake of HIV services among sexual partners of antiretroviral therapy (ART) clients, but the impact of HIVST on partner testing and subsequent ART initiation remains unclear. METHODS AND FINDINGS We conducted an individually randomized, unblinded trial to assess if an index HIVST intervention targeting the partners of ART clients improves uptake of testing and treatment services in Malawi. The trial was conducted at 3 high-burden facilities in central and southern Malawi. ART clients attending HIV treatment clinics were randomized using simple randomization 1:2·5 to: (1) standard partner referral slip (PRS) whereby ART clients were given facility referral slips to distribute to their primary sexual partners; or (2) index HIVST whereby ART clients were given HIVST kits + HIVST instructions and facility referral slips to distribute to their primary sexual partners. Inclusion criteria for ART clients were: ≥15 years of age, primary partner with unknown HIV status, no history of interpersonal violence (IPV) with partner, and partner lives in facility catchment area. The primary outcome was partner testing 4-weeks after enrollment, reported by ART clients using endline surveys. Medical chart reviews and tracing activities with partners with a reactive HIV test measured ART initiation at 12 months. Analyses were conducted based on modified intention-to-treat principles, whereby we excluded individuals who did not have complete endline data (i.e., were loss to follow up from the study). Adjusted models controlled for the effects of age and marital status. A total of 4,237 ART clients were screened and 484 were eligible and enrolled (77% female) between March 28, 2018 and January 5, 2020. A total of 365 participants completed an endline survey (257/34 index HIVST arm; 107/13 PRS arm) and were included in the final analysis (78% female). Testing coverage among sexual partners was 71% (183/257) in the index HIVST arm and 25% (27/107) in the PRS arm (aRR: 2·77, 95% CI [2·56 to 3·00], p ≤ 0.001). Reported HIV positivity rates did not significantly differ by arm (16% (30/183) in HIVST versus 15% (4/27) in PRS; p = 0.99). ART initiation at 12 months was 47% (14/30) in HIVST versus 75% (3/4) in PRS arms; however, index HIVST still resulted in a 94% increase in the proportion of all partners initiating ART due to higher HIV testing rates in the HIVST arm (5% partners initiated ART in HVIST versus 3% in PRS). Adverse events including IPV and termination of the relationship did not vary by arm (IPV: 3/257 index HIVST versus 4/10 PRS; p = 0.57). Limitations include reliance on secondary report by ART clients, potential social desirability bias, and not powered for sex disaggregated analyses. CONCLUSIONS Index HIVST significantly increased HIV testing and the absolute number of partners initiating ART in Malawi, without increased risk of adverse events. Additional research is needed to improve linkage to HIV treatment services after HIVST use. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03271307, and Pan African Clinical Trials, PACTR201711002697316.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Dovel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Partners in Hope, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | | | | | - Ogechukwu Agatha Offorjebe
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- School of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | | | - Vincent Wong
- USAID Global Health Bureau, Arlington, Virginia, United States of America
| | | | - Brooke E. Nichols
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Tobias Masina
- Malawi Ministry of Health, HIV/AIDS Unit, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Risa Hoffman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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Ye ZH, Liu F, Chu ZX, Duan JY, Yang J, Zheng JX, Bi XY, Ding HB, Jiang YJ, Xu JJ, Hu QH, Shang H. Effectiveness and safety of community-led assisted partner service among HIV-diagnosed men who have sex with men: a multicentre, randomized controlled trial in China. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 36:100772. [PMID: 37547042 PMCID: PMC10398600 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2023.100772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Background No randomized controlled trials have involved established HIV-diagnosed men who have sex with men (MSM) diagnosed for more than 6 months into the assisted partner service (aPS). We compared voluntary aPS involving community-based organizations (CBOs) and HIV self-testing (aPSST) with regular partner service (rPS) in HIV-diagnosed MSM irrespective of diagnosis time. Methods In this unblinded, multicentre trial, we enrolled HIV-diagnosed MSM irrespective of diagnosis time in three cities in northern China. Index patients were randomly assigned to aPSST or rPS. Index patients in the aPSST group were additionally provided a comprehensive intervention package including HIV self-testing and CBO-based aPS compared with rPS group. The primary outcome was the number of index patients whose any sexual partner tested for HIV during the 6-month study. Completion of HIV testing was defined as sexual partners taking a clinic-based HIV test or HIV self-testing. Safety was assessed preliminary at the end of the 6-month follow-up. This study has been registered at chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2000038784). Findings From March to December 2021, 325 of HIV-diagnosed MSM were enrolled (90⋅2% were established HIV-diagnosed MSM) and randomly assigned to receive aPSST (n = 167) or rPS (n = 158). At 6 months, 110 (65⋅9%) index patients in the aPSST group had at least one sexual partner tested for HIV compared with 50 (31⋅6%) in the rPS group (hazard ratio 2⋅86; 95% confidence interval 2⋅03-4⋅03; p < 0⋅001). No significant difference was observed in effects of aPSST on HIV testing promotion between established and newly HIV-diagnosed MSM. Self-reported harms were infrequently observed in both groups (approximately 2⋅0%). Interpretation Among HIV-diagnosed MSM regardless of diagnosis time, voluntary aPS involving CBOs and HIV self-testing was effective and safe for promoting partner HIV testing. Funding This work was supported by the Mega-Projects of National Science Research, the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Liaoning Revitalization Talents Program, China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Hao Ye
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
- Ningbo Municipal Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Ningbo, 315010, China
| | - Fan Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhen-Xing Chu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Yi Duan
- Tian Yuan Studio, Beijing You'an Hospital, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Shenlan Public Health Advisory Service Centre, Tianjin, 300122, China
| | - Jia-Xin Zheng
- Yikang Social Work Service Centre, Shenbei New District, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Bi
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Bo Ding
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Jun Jiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Jie Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qing-Hai Hu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Shang
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), National Clinical Research Centre for Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
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Mkopi A, Korte JE, Lesslie V, diNapoli M, Mutiso F, Mwajubwa S, Kassim I, Conserve DF, Juma O. Acceptability and uptake of oral HIV self-testing among rural community members in Tanzania: a pilot study. AIDS Care 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37245239 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2217376] [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: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
New strategies are needed to improve HIV testing rates in Tanzania, particularly among adult men. We sought to investigate if HIV oral self-testing would increase HIV testing uptake in Tanzanian rural community homes. The study design was a prospective community-randomized pilot study, in two matched villages with similar characteristics (intervention and control villages) Before data collection, we trained village health workers and research assistants for one week. We recruited male and female adults from 50 representative households in each of two villages in eastern Tanzania. We collected data at baseline and we followed-up the enrolled households after a one-month period. There was a high interest in testing for HIV, with all participants from both arms (100%; n = 259) reporting that they would like to test for HIV. After the one-month follow-up, overall, 66.1% (162/245) of study participants reported to have tested for HIV in both arms. In the intervention arm, 97.6% (124/127) reported that they tested for HIV versus in the control arm, 32.2% (38/118) tested for HIV, p-value < 0.001. In Tanzania, we found that availability of HIV self-testing was associated with an enormous increase in HIV testing uptake in a rural population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Fedelis Mutiso
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston SC, USA
| | | | - Irabi Kassim
- Ifakara Health Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Donaldson F Conserve
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, Washington DC, USA
| | - Omar Juma
- Ifakara Health Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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26
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Ky-Zerbo O, Desclaux A, Boye S, Maheu-Giroux M, Rouveau N, Vautier A, Camara CS, Kouadio BA, Sow S, Doumenc-Aidara C, Gueye PA, Geoffroy O, Kamemba OK, Ehui E, Ndour CT, Keita A, Larmarange J. "I take it and give it to my partners who will give it to their partners": Secondary distribution of HIV self-tests by key populations in Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, and Senegal. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 22:970. [PMID: 37226113 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08319-4] [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: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV epidemics in Western and Central Africa (WCA) remain concentrated among key populations, who are often unaware of their status. HIV self-testing (HIVST) and its secondary distribution among key populations, and their partners and relatives, could reduce gaps in diagnosis coverage. We aimed to document and understand secondary HIVST distribution practices by men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSW), people who use drugs (PWUD); and the use of HIVST by their networks in Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, and Senegal. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted in 2021 involving (a) face-to-face interviews with MSM, FSW, and PWUD who received HIVST kits from peer educators (primary users) and (b) telephone interviews with people who received kits from primary contacts (secondary users). These individual interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded using Dedoose software. Thematic analysis was performed. RESULTS A total of 89 participants, including 65 primary users and 24 secondary users were interviewed. Results showed that HIVST were effectively redistributed through peers and key populations networks. The main reported motivations for HIVST distribution included allowing others to access testing and protecting oneself by verifying the status of partners/clients. The main barrier to distribution was the fear of sexual partners' reactions. Findings suggest that members of key populations raised awareness of HIVST and referred those in need of HIVST to peer educators. One FSW reported physical abuse. Secondary users generally completed HIVST within two days of receiving the kit. The test was used half the times in the physical presence of another person, partly for psychological support need. Users who reported a reactive test sought confirmatory testing and were linked to care. Some participants mentioned difficulties in collecting the biological sample (2 participants) and interpreting the result (4 participants). CONCLUSION The redistribution of HIVST was common among key populations, with minor negative attitudes. Users encountered few difficulties using the kits. Reactive test cases were generally confirmed. These secondary distribution practices support the deployment of HIVST to key populations, their partners, and other relatives. In similar WCA countries, members of key populations can assist in the distribution of HIVST, contributing to closing HIV diagnosis gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odette Ky-Zerbo
- TransVIHMI, Université de Montpellier, IRD, INSERM, Montpellier, France.
| | - Alice Desclaux
- TransVIHMI, Université de Montpellier, IRD, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Sokhna Boye
- Ceped, Université Paris Cité, IRD, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Mathieu Maheu-Giroux
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1G1, Canada
| | | | | | - Cheick Sidi Camara
- Institut Malien de Rechercher en Sciences Sociales Et de Santé (IMRSS), Bamako, Mali
| | - Brou Alexis Kouadio
- Institut d'ethnosociologie (IES), Université Félix Houphouët Boigny de Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Souleymane Sow
- Centre Régional de Recherche et de Formation à la Prise en Charge Clinique de Fann (CRCF), Dakar, Sénégal
| | | | | | | | | | - Eboi Ehui
- Programme National de Lutte contre le Sida (PNLS), Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Cheick Tidiane Ndour
- Division de Lutte contre le Sida et les IST, Ministère de la Santé et de l'Action Sociale, Institut d'Hygiène Sociale, Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Abdelaye Keita
- Institut National de Santé Publique (INSP), Bamako, Mali
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27
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Zhao P, Zhou Y, Ni Y, Lu Y, Huang S, Yang J, Tang W. Testing Together Behaviors in Secondary Distribution of HIV/Syphilis Self-testing Program Among Men Who have Sex with Men in China. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:1430-1440. [PMID: 36239880 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03879-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
HIV self-testing (HIVST) is recommended as a promising way to increase HIV testing uptake among MSM. MSM sometimes used HIVST kits together with their sexual partners or friends. However, limited data was reported on MSM's testing together behaviors with sexual partners and non-sexual contacts. Data were collected among MSM in China from June 2018 to June 2019. Eligible participants (referred to as "index participants") finished a baseline survey and applied for HIVST kits. They were encouraged to distribute the kits to other people (referred to as "alters"). Index participants finished a 3-month follow-up survey on the distribution and usage of the kits. Alters finished an online survey on the usage of HIVST kits after they returned the photographed testing results. Results were reported based on index participants and alters, respectively. Based on follow-up data, 138 index participants successfully motivated others for HIVST, most of them (77.5%) tested together with at least one alter. Around half of alters (52.3%) reported testing together with index participants. Index participants distributed more HIVST kits to friends than sexual partners. MSM who had ever tested for HIV were more likely to test together. Our study demonstrated that the testing together behaviors during HIVST distribution among sexual partners and social network contacts were common. The social network-based approach is essential in promoting testing together and HIV status disclosure among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Zhao
- Jane Addams of College of Social Work, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of AIDS Prevention and Control, Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Yuxin Ni
- Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, 510095, China
| | - Ying Lu
- Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, 510095, China
| | - Shanzi Huang
- Department of AIDS Prevention and Control, Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Junjun Yang
- Wuxi Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China.
| | - Weiming Tang
- Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China.
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, 510095, China.
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28
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Hu S, Lu Y, He X, Zhou Y, Wu D, Tucker JD, Yang B, Tang W. Effectiveness of the secondary distribution of HIV self-testing with and without monetary incentives among men who have sex with men living with HIV in China: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:160. [PMID: 36918824 PMCID: PMC10013267 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08062-w] [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: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The HIV epidemic is still expanding among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China, but HIV testing rates remain suboptimal. Network-based interventions, such as secondary distribution, have shown promise to expand HIV self-testing (HIVST) among partners of MSM living with HIV (MLWH) but have not been widely implemented. Monetary incentives could enhance the secondary distribution of HIVST in some settings. We will conduct a randomized controlled trial to examine the effectiveness of monetary incentives in expanding the secondary distribution of HIVST among MLWH in China. METHODS We will recruit 200 eligible participants at three antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinics in China. Participants are eligible if they are 18 years of age or over, assigned as male at birth, have had anal sex with men, are living with HIV, are willing to apply for the HIVST kit at ART clinics, and are willing to provide personal contact information for follow-up. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to one of two groups: standard secondary distribution group and secondary distribution group with monetary incentives. Participants (defined as "index") will distribute the HIVST kits to members of their social network (defined as "alter") and will be required to complete a baseline survey and a 3-month follow-up survey. All alters will be encouraged to report their testing results by taking photos of used kits and completing an online survey. The primary study outcomes will compare the mean number of alters and newly-tested alters motivated by each index participant in each group. Secondary study outcomes will include the mean number of alters who tested positive, the cost per person tested, and the cost per HIV diagnosed for each group. DISCUSSION Few studies have evaluated interventions to enhance the implementation of secondary distribution. Our study will provide information on the effectiveness of monetary incentives in expanding HIVST secondary distribution among MLWH. The findings of this trial will contribute to implementing HIVST secondary distribution services among MLWH in China and facilitating HIV case identifications. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200064517; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=177896 . Registered on 10th October 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyue Hu
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,University of North Carolina Project - China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Lu
- University of North Carolina Project - China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi He
- Zhuhai Xutong Voluntary Services Center, Zhuhai, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Zhuhai Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Zhuhai, China
| | - Dan Wu
- University of North Carolina Project - China, Guangzhou, China.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,West China School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project - China, Guangzhou, China.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Bin Yang
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Weiming Tang
- School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,University of North Carolina Project - China, Guangzhou, China.
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Hampanda KM, Pelowich K, Freeborn K, Graybill LA, Mutale W, Jones KR, Saidi F, Kumwenda A, Kasaro M, Rosenberg NE, Chi BH. Strategies to increase couples HIV testing and counselling in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26075. [PMID: 36929284 PMCID: PMC10020817 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Couple HIV testing and counselling (CHTC) is associated with measurable benefits for HIV prevention and treatment. However, the uptake remains limited in much of sub-Saharan Africa, despite an expanded range of strategies designed to promote access. METHODS Following PRIMSA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review to characterize CHTC uptake strategies. Five databases were searched. Full-text articles were included if they were: conducted in sub-Saharan Africa during the study period (1980-2019), targeted heterosexual couples, reported at least one strategy to promote CHTC and provided a quantifiable measure of CHTC uptake. After the initial and full-text screening, key features of the studies were abstracted and synthesized. RESULTS Of the 6188 unique records found in our search, 365 underwent full-text review with 29 distinct studies included and synthesized. Most studies recruited couples through antenatal care (n = 11) or community venues (n = 8) and used provider-based HIV testing (n = 25). The primary demand creation strategies included home-based CHTC (n = 7); integration of CHTC into clinical settings (n = 4); distribution of HIV self-testing kits (n = 4); verbal or written invitations (n = 4); community recruiters (n = 3); partner tracing (n = 2); relationship counselling (n = 2); financial incentives (n = 1); group education with CHTC coupons (n = 1); and HIV testing at other community venues (n = 1). CHTC uptake ranged from negligible to nearly universal. DISCUSSION We thematically categorized a diverse range of strategies with varying levels of intensity and resources used across sub-Saharan Africa to promote CHTC. Offering CHTC within couples' homes was the most common approach, followed by the integration of CHTC into clinical settings. Due to heterogeneity in study characteristics, we were unable to compare the effectiveness across studies, but several trends were observed, including the high prevalence of CHTC promotion strategies in antenatal settings and the promising effects of home-based CHTC, distribution of HIV self-tests and integration of CHTC into routine health services. Since 2019, an updated literature search found that combining partner notification and secondary distribution of HIV self-test kits may be an additionally effective CHTC strategy. CONCLUSIONS There are many effective, feasible and scalable approaches to promote CHTC that should be considered by national programmes according to local needs, cultural context and available resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M. Hampanda
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
- Center for Global HealthUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Krysta Pelowich
- Center for Global HealthUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Kellie Freeborn
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Lauren A. Graybill
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyGillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- Department of Health PolicySchool of Public HealthUniversity of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Katelyn R. Jones
- Department of Health BehaviorGillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Andrew Kumwenda
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Margaret Kasaro
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- UNC Global Projects ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Nora E. Rosenberg
- Department of Health BehaviorGillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Benjamin H. Chi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyGillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
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Naughton B, Bulterys MA, Mugisha J, Mujugira A, Boyer J, Celum C, Weiner B, Sharma M. 'If there is joy… I think it can work well': a qualitative study investigating relationship factors impacting HIV self-testing acceptability among pregnant women and male partners in Uganda. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067172. [PMID: 36806072 PMCID: PMC9944652 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Secondary distribution of HIV self-test (HIVST) kits from pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) to their male partners is shown to increase HIV couples testing and disclosure, and is being scaled up in sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding couples-level barriers and facilitators influencing HIVST uptake is critical to designing strategies to optimise intervention coverage. DESIGN To investigate these couples-level barriers and facilitiators, we conducted focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. Transcripts were analysed thematically and the interdependence model of communal coping and health behaviour change was adapted to explore factors impacting HIVST acceptability. SETTING We recruited pregnant women attending two public ANC clinics in Kampala, Uganda, and male partners of pregnant women between April 2019 and February 2020. PARTICIPANTS We conducted gender-stratified focus group discussions (N=14) and in-depth interviews (N=10) with pregnant women with and without HIV attending ANC, and male partners of pregnant women (N=122 participants). INTERVENTION We evaluated pregnant women's and male partners' perceptions of HIVST secondary distribution in Uganda, leveraging the interdependence model of communal coping and health behaviour change. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Key areas of focus included HIVST interest and acceptability, perspectives on HIV status disclosure to partners and gender roles. RESULTS Participants felt that predisposing factors, including trust, communication, fear of partner and infidelity, would influence women's decisions to deliver HIVST kits to partners, and subsequent communal coping behaviours such as couples HIV testing and disclosure. Pregnancy was described as a critical motivator for men's HIVST uptake, while HIV status of pregnant women was influential in couples' communal coping and health-enhancing behaviours. Generally, participants felt HIV-negative women would be more likely to deliver HIVST, while women with HIV would be more hesitant due to concerns about discovery of serodifference and relationship dissolution. Participants stressed the importance of counsellor availability throughout the process including guidance on how women should approach their partners regarding HIVST and post-test support in case of a positive test. CONCLUSIONS HIV-negative women in relationships with positive predisposing factors may be most likely to deliver HIVST and leverage interdependent coping behaviours. Women with HIV or those in relationships with negative predisposing factors may benefit from targeted counselling and disclosure support before and after HIVST kit distribution. Results can help support policy guidelines for HIVST kit distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brienna Naughton
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Michelle A Bulterys
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jackson Mugisha
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jade Boyer
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Bryan Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Bulterys MA, Naughton B, Mujugira A, Mugisha J, Nakyanzi A, Naddunga F, Boyer J, Ware N, Celum C, Sharma M. Pregnant women and male partner perspectives of secondary distribution of HIV self-testing kits in Uganda: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279781. [PMID: 36787299 PMCID: PMC9928124 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a promising strategy to increase awareness of HIV status among sub-Saharan African (SSA) men. Understanding user perspectives on HIVST secondary distribution from pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) to their male partners is crucial to optimizing delivery strategies. METHODS We sampled pregnant women attending ANC without their partners and purposively oversampled pregnant women living with HIV (PWHIV) to understand their unique views. We recruited male partners after obtaining contact information from women. We conducted 14 focus group discussions and 10 in-depth interviews with men and pregnant women. We assessed acceptability of HIVST secondary distribution, barriers, facilitators, and interventions to increase HIVST uptake. RESULTS Participants felt that HIVST secondary distribution was acceptable, particularly for women in stable relationships. However, many expressed concerns about accusations of mistrust, relationship dissolution, fear of discovering serodifference, and lack of counseling associated with HIVST. PWHIV reported hesitation about secondary distribution, citing fears of unintended HIV status disclosure and abandonment resulting in financial hardship for themselves and their infant. Some participants preferred that providers contact men directly to offer HIVST kits instead of distribution via women. Participants reported that community sensitization, availability of phone-based counseling, male clinic staff, extended clinic hours, and financial incentives could increase men's HIVST use and linkage to care. CONCLUSION Participants expressed high interest in using HIVST, but secondary distribution was not universally preferred. We identified potential strategies to increase HIVST acceptability, particularly among PWHIV and those in unstable partnerships which can inform strategies to optimize HIVST distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle A. Bulterys
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Brienna Naughton
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jackson Mugisha
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agnes Nakyanzi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Faith Naddunga
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jade Boyer
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Norma Ware
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Shifting the power: scale-up of access to point-of-care and self-testing for sexually transmitted infections in low-income and middle-income settings. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2023; 36:49-56. [PMID: 36753705 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Point-of-care (POC) testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can provide complementary coverage to existing HIV testing services in LMICs. This review summarizes current and emerging technologies for detecting STIs in LMICs, with an emphasis on women, discharge-causing infections (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, and syphilis), true POC, self-testing, ethics, and economic considerations related to equitable access. RECENT FINDINGS The WHO have recently adapted guidelines for treatment of STIs in women that advise the use of true-POC or near-POC tests to improve case finding. The number of rapid, sensitive, and specific POC diagnostics for STIs has increased significantly over the past 10 years, although adoption of these in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) remains limited. Barriers to POC adoption by patients include the cost of tests, the inconvenience of lengthy clinic visits, low perceived risk, stigma, lack of partner notification, and lack of trust in healthcare providers. Lowering the cost of true POC lateral flow devices, interfacing these with digital or eHealth technologies, and enabling self-testing/self-sampling will overcome some of these barriers in LMICs. Ensuring linkage of diagnostic tests to subsequent care remains one of the major concerns about self-testing, irrespective of geography, although available evidence from HIV self-testing suggests that linkage to care is similar to that for facility-based testing. SUMMARY Increasing access to sensitive STI true POC tests will strengthen reproductive healthcare in LMICs. Although HIV self-testing is demonstrably useful in LMICs, there is an urgent need for randomized trials evaluating the utility and cost-effectiveness of similar tests for other sexually transmitted infections.
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Wang Y, Zhang W, Gong X, Ong JJ, Marks M, Zhao P, Tucker JD, Tang W, Wu D, Wang C. Optimizing Peer Distribution of Syphilis Self-Testing Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in China: A Multi-City Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023:1-12. [PMID: 36626071 PMCID: PMC9831370 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02507-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Syphilis testing uptake is low among men who have sex with men (MSM) around the world. Syphilis self-testing (SST) may complement facility-based testing; the distribution model is yet to be explored. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of peer distribution of syphilis self-testing on promoting syphilis testing. We conducted a three-arm, unblinded, parallel individually randomized controlled trial among MSM in three cities in Guangdong, China. Inclusion criteria were: men who were born biologically male, aged 18 or above, have ever had sex with a man, will refer the interventions to peers, and will take the three-month follow-up survey. Enrolled indexes were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio into standard-of-care arm (SOC arm), standard SST delivery arm (S-SST arm), and a web-based referral link SST delivery arm (RL-SST arm). The primary outcome was the number of returned photograph-verified syphilis testing results per index. A total number of 300 indexes were enrolled, with 100 indexes in each arm. The number of verified syphilis tests per index conducted by alters was 0.05 in the control arm, 0.51 in the S-SST arm, and 0.31 in the RL-SST arm. The cost per alter tested was $760.60 for SOC, $83.78 for S-SST, and $93.10 for RL-SST. Minimal adverse event was reported among both indexes and alters during the study. This study showed that peer distribution of SST could improve syphilis testing uptake among MSM in China compared to facility-based testing. This approach warrants further consideration as part of expanding syphilis self-testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Wang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510091, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Disease and STI Control, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao Gong
- Department of Biostatistics, Guangzhou Jeeyor Medical Research Co., Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jason J Ong
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Marks
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London, UK
| | - Peizhen Zhao
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510091, China
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Disease and STI Control, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510091, China
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Project-China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dan Wu
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Cheng Wang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510091, China.
- Southern Medical University Institute for Global Health, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Disease and STI Control, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Kelvin EA, Romo ML, George G, Mantell JE, Mwai E, Kinyanjui S, Nyaga EN, Odhiambo JO, Govender K. Evaluating effect modification by HIV testing history to understand the mechanisms behind the impact of announcing HIV self-testing availability in a clinic system in Kenya. Front Public Health 2023; 10:880070. [PMID: 36684866 PMCID: PMC9853377 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.880070] [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: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In sub-Saharan Africa, truckers and female sex workers (FSWs) have high HIV risk and face challenges accessing HIV testing. Adding HIV self-testing (HIVST) to standard of care (SOC) programs increases testing rates. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. HIVST may decrease barriers (inconvenient clinic hours, confidentiality concerns) and thus we would expect a greater impact among those not accessing SOC testing (barriers prevented previous testing). As a new biomedical technology, HIVST may also be a cue to action (the novelty of a new product motivates people to try it), in which case we might expect the impact to be similar by testing history. Methods We used data from two randomized controlled trials evaluating the announcement of HIVST availability via text-message to male truckers (n = 2,260) and FSWs (n = 2,196) in Kenya. Log binomial regression was used to estimate the risk ratio (RR) for testing ≤ 2 months post-announcement in the intervention vs. SOC overall and by having tested in the previous 12-months (12m-tested); and we assessed interaction between the intervention and 12m-tested. We also estimated risk differences (RD) per 100 and tested additive interaction using linear binomial regression. Results We found no evidence that 12m-tested modified the HIVST impact. Among truckers, those in the intervention were 3.1 times more likely to test than the SOC (p < 0.001). Although testing was slightly higher among those not 12m-tested (RR = 3.5, p = 0.001 vs. RR = 2.7, p = 0.020), the interaction was not significant (p = 0.683). Among FSWs, results were similar (unstratified RR = 2.6, p < 0.001; 12m-tested: RR = 2.7, p < 0.001; not 12m-tested: RR = 2.5, p < 0.001; interaction p = 0.795). We also did not find significant interaction on the additive scale (truckers: unstratified RD = 2.8, p < 0.001; 12m-tested RD = 3.8, p = 0.037; not 12m-tested RD = 2.5, p = 0.003; interaction p = 0.496. FSWs: unstratified RD = 9.7, p < 0.001; 12m-tested RD = 10.7, p < 0.001, not 12m-tested RD = 9.1, p < 0.001; interaction p = 0.615). Conclusion The impact of HIVST was not significantly modified by 12m-tested among truckers and FSWs on the multiplicative or additive scales. Announcing the availability of HIVST likely served primarily as a cue to action and testing clinics might maximize the HIVST benefits by holding periodic HIVST events to maintain the cue to action impact rather than making HIVST continually available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Kelvin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Matthew L. Romo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Gavin George
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Joanne E. Mantell
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Gender, Sexuality and Health Area, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Eva Mwai
- North Star Alliance, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - Kaymarlin Govender
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Ware NC, Wyatt MA, Pisarski EE, Kamusiime B, Kasiita V, Nalukwago G, Nalumansi A, Twesigye C, Boyer J, Nakyanzi A, Naddunga F, Mujugira A, Celum CL. How pregnant women living with HIV and their male partners manage men's HIV self-testing: qualitative analysis of an HIVST secondary distribution process in Kampala, Uganda. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26050. [PMID: 36659835 PMCID: PMC9852794 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increased HIV testing by men in sub-Saharan Africa is key to meeting UNAIDS 2025 testing targets. Secondary distribution of HIV self-testing (HIVST) kits by pregnant women attending antenatal care to male partners has been shown to increase testing among African men. A detailed understanding of how women and male partners manage the distribution and use of HIVST and subsequent linkage to clinic-based follow-up can inform implementation and scale-up efforts. METHODS We use qualitative data from the Obumu Study, a randomized trial of secondary distribution of HIVST by pregnant women living with HIV to male partners in Kampala, Uganda, to unpack the HIVST delivery process. The protocol included a clinic visit by male partners to confirm HIVST results. Individual interviews eliciting data on experiences of delivering and using HIVST and of subsequent linkage to clinic-based testing were conducted with a purposefully selected sample of 45 women and 45 male partner Obumu Study participants from November 2018 to March 2021. Interview data from 59 participants (29 women and 30 men) in the HIVST arm were analysed through coding and category construction. RESULTS Women living with HIV were apprehensive about delivering HIVST to their partners, especially if they had not disclosed their HIV status. They invested effort in developing strategies for introducing HIVST. Male partners described a range of responses to receiving the self-testing kit, especially fear of a positive test result. Women reported leading the self-testing process, often conducting the test themselves. Most women confidently interpreted HIVST results. However, they tended to defer to healthcare workers rather than report positive results directly to partners. Women told their partners the testing process required a clinic follow-up visit, often without explaining the visit's purpose. Many partners delayed the visit as a result. Women again responded by strategizing to persuade their partners to link to follow-up care. CONCLUSIONS Secondary distribution of HIVST by pregnant women living with HIV to male partners can be challenging, especially when women have not disclosed their HIV status. Additional support may alleviate the burden; outreach to male partners may facilitate linkage to confirmatory testing and HIV care or prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norma C. Ware
- Department of MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Monique A. Wyatt
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard GlobalCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Emily E. Pisarski
- Department of Global Health and Social MedicineHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Vicent Kasiita
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Grace Nalukwago
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | | | | | - Jade Boyer
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Agnes Nakyanzi
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Faith Naddunga
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- Infectious Diseases InstituteMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Connie L. Celum
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Rosadiño JDT, Pagtakhan RG, Briñes MT, Dinglasan JLG, Cruz DP, Corciega JOL, Pagtakhan AB, Regencia ZJG, Baja ES. Implementation of unassisted and community-based HIV Self-Testing (HIVST) during the COVID-19 pandemic among Men-who-have-sex-with-Men (MSM) and Transgender Women (TGW): A demonstration study in Metro Manila, Philippines. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282644. [PMID: 36893109 PMCID: PMC9997871 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of an unassisted and community-based HIV self-testing (HIVST) distribution model and to evaluate its acceptability among men-having-sex-with-men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW). METHODS Our demonstration study focused on implementing the HIVST distribution model in Metro Manila, Philippines. Convenience sampling was done with the following inclusion criteria: MSM or TGW, at least 18 years old, and had no previous HIV diagnosis. Individuals taking HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, on antiretroviral therapy, or female sex at birth were excluded. The implementation of the study was done online using a virtual assistant and a delivery system via courier due to COVID-19-related lockdowns. Feasibility was measured by the number of HIVST kits successfully delivered and utilized and the HIV point prevalence. Moreover, acceptability was evaluated by a 10-item system usability scale (SUS). HIV prevalence was estimated with linkage to care prioritized for reactive participants. RESULTS Out of 1,690 kits distributed, only 953 (56.4%) participants reported their results. Overall, HIV point prevalence was 9.8%, with 56 (60.2%) reactive participants linked to further testing. Furthermore, 261 (27.4%) of respondents self-reported, and 35 (13.4%) of the reactive participants were first-time testers. The HIVST service had an overall median and interquartile range (IQR) SUS score of 82.5 (IQR: 75.0, 90.0), rendering the HIVST kits very acceptable. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests the acceptability and feasibility of HIVST among the MSM and TGW in Metro Manila, Philippines, regardless of their age or HIV testing experience. In addition, other platforms of information dissemination and service delivery of HIVST should be explored, including access to online instructional videos and printed materials, which may facilitate easier use and interpretation of results. Furthermore, due to our study's limited number of TGW respondents, a more targeted implementation strategy to reach the TGW population is warranted to increase their access and uptake of HIVST.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Danvic T. Rosadiño
- LoveYourself Inc., Mandaluyong City, Philippines
- Faculty of Management and Development Studies, University of the Philippines Open University, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
| | | | - Matthew T. Briñes
- LoveYourself Inc., Mandaluyong City, Philippines
- College of Medicine, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Denis P. Cruz
- LoveYourself Inc., Mandaluyong City, Philippines
- Faculty of Management and Development Studies, University of the Philippines Open University, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
| | | | - Aeronne B. Pagtakhan
- LoveYourself Inc., Mandaluyong City, Philippines
- Nursing Department, Centro Escolar University Makati, Makati City, Philippines
| | - Zypher Jude G. Regencia
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Paz Mendoza Building, UPCM, Manila, Philippines
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Emmanuel S. Baja
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Paz Mendoza Building, UPCM, Manila, Philippines
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- * E-mail:
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Linkage to HIV Care Following HIV Self-testing Among Men: Systematic Review of Quantitative and Qualitative Studies from Six Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:651-666. [PMID: 36094641 PMCID: PMC9466308 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03800-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Gender disparities are pervasive throughout the HIV care continuum in sub-Saharan Africa, with men testing, receiving treatment, and achieving viral suppression at lower rates, and experiencing mortality at higher rates, compared with women. HIV self-testing (HIVST) has been shown to be highly acceptable among men in sub-Saharan Africa. However, evidence on linkage to HIV care following a reactive HIVST result is limited. In this systematic review, we aimed to synthesize the quantitative and qualitative literature from sub-Saharan Africa on men's rates of linkage to HIV care after receiving a reactive HIVST result. We systematically searched 14 bibliometric databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) flow diagram was used to document the screening results. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Of 22,446 references screened, 15 articles were eligible for inclusion in this review. Linkage to HIV care following a reactive HIVST result was subject to several barriers: financial constraints due to travelling costs, potential long waiting hours at the clinics, stigma, discrimination, and privacy concerns. Men's rates of seeking confirmatory testing and linking to HIV care following a reactive HIVST result were inconsistent across studies. Combining financial incentives with HIVST was found to increase the likelihood of linking to HIV care following a reactive HIVST result. The variable rates of linkage to HIV care following a reactive HIVST result suggest a need for further research and development into strategies to increase linkage to HIV care.
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Mweemba O, Maman S, Freeborn K, Hazwela C, Kamat A, Kumwenda A, Lusaka M, Matenga TFL, Namukanga NE, Rosenberg NE, Chi BH, Mutale W. Perspectives and experiences of Zambian pregnant and postpartum women receiving two intervention models to increase uptake of male partner HIV testing. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2242463. [PMID: 37553076 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2242463] [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: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
This study explored the experiences of pregnant women who received two intervention models for increasing uptake of male partner HIV testing in antenatal settings. As part of a randomised trial, we interviewed twenty participants who received partner notification services only while 22 received the partner notification plus HIV self-testing. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Partner notification services helped to initiate discussions of HIV testing with partners, influence partners to undergo testing, and encouraged disclosure of HIV status. Some women experienced difficulties engaging partners due to fear of their partner's reaction. Some partners were unable to test due to time constraints. The partner notification plus HIV self-testing intervention, stimulated discussion about HIV testing; facilitated testing for men at their convenience; addressed privacy/confidentiality, and stigma concerns; and provided the opportunity to disclose HIV status. Some women feared disclosure and retribution in case of discordance results. There were also challenges with men making follow-ups for confirmatory HIV tests. The addition of HIV self-test kits to partner notification services can expand HIV testing services to male partners, including those of HIV-negative women. Additional efforts are needed to link men to appropriate HIV prevention, care, and treatment services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Mweemba
- Department of Health Promotion and Education, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Suzanne Maman
- Department of Health Behaviour, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kellie Freeborn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Caroline Hazwela
- Department of Health Promotion and Education, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Aditi Kamat
- Department of Health Behaviour, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrew Kumwenda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Tulani Francis L Matenga
- Department of Health Promotion and Education, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- UNC Global Projects - Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nachizya Edith Namukanga
- Department of Health Promotion and Education, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nora E Rosenberg
- Department of Health Behaviour, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Benjamin H Chi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
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Bien-Gund CH, Shaw PA, Agnew-Brune C, Baugher A, Brady KA, Gross R. HIV Self-testing and Risk Behaviors Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in 23 US Cities, 2017. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2247540. [PMID: 36534398 PMCID: PMC9856873 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.47540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a promising strategy to expand the HIV care continuum, particularly among priority populations at high risk of HIV infection. However, little is known about HIVST uptake among men who have sex with men (MSM) outside of clinical trial settings. OBJECTIVE To evaluate HIVST use among urban MSM in the US who reported testing within the past 12 months. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A cross-sectional study of adult MSM in the 2017 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance system, which used venue-based sampling methods to collect data related to HIV testing, receipt of prevention services, and risk factors for HIV, was conducted at 588 venues in 23 urban areas in the contiguous US and Puerto Rico. All participants were offered HIV testing. Adult cisgender MSM who reported HIV-negative or unknown HIV status and obtained HIV testing in the past 12 months were included. Data for this study were collected between June 4, 2017, and December 22, 2017, and analyzed between October 23, 2020, and August 20, 2021. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Self-reported HIVST in the past year. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) using survey weights were calculated to assess factors associated with HIVST. RESULTS A total of 6563 MSM in 23 urban areas met inclusion criteria, of whom 506 (7.7%) individuals reported HIVST in the past year. The median age of self-testers was 29 (IQR, 25-35) years, 52.8% had completed college, and 37.9% reported non-Hispanic White race. One self-tester reported seroconverting in the prior 12 months, and an additional 10 self-testers were diagnosed with HIV during the survey. HIVST was associated with sexual orientation disclosure (aPR, 10.27; 95% CI, 3.45-30.60; P < .001), perceived discrimination against people with HIV (aPR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.09-2.03; P = .01), younger age (aPR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.66-0.84; P < .001), higher educational level (aPR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.04-1.37; P = .01), and higher income levels (aPR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.04-1.32; P = .009). No association was noted with condomless anal sex (aPR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.88-1.06, P = .88), sexually transmitted infections (aPR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.70-1.30; P = .77), or preexposure prophylaxis use (aPR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.75-1.30; P = .92). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this study, HIVST was relatively uncommon in this sample of urban MSM. HIVST may not be reaching those with lower socioeconomic status or who have not disclosed their sexual identity. The findings of this study suggest that efforts to increase HIVST should focus on engaging underserved and vulnerable subgroups of MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric H. Bien-Gund
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Pamela A. Shaw
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle
| | - Christine Agnew-Brune
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Amy Baugher
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kathleen A. Brady
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
- AIDS Activities Coordinating Office, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert Gross
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
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Ruderman LW, Ochwal P, Marcus N, Napierala S, Thirumurthy H, Agot K, Maman S. 'When I have these kits … I have confidence' - HIV self-testing provides agency for women in their sexual decision-making. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3735-3746. [PMID: 35770697 PMCID: PMC9800639 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2092176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Oral fluid-based HIV self-testing (HIVST) has emerged as a promising approach to increasing HIV testing coverage, particularly among high-risk populations. Understanding the experiences of women using self-tests and offering them to their sexual partners (secondary distribution) is crucial for determining the potential of HIVST. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted among 32 women at high risk of HIV infection, including women who engage in transactional sex, who participated in a cluster randomised trial of a secondary distribution strategy in western Kenya. Interviews explored how women used self-tests within relationships and how this affected their sexual decision-making. Three key themes emerged: women used HIVST to assess risk prior to engaging in sex with partners; HIVST provided women with increased agency to engage in or end relationships; and women appreciated these benefits and urged expanded access to self-tests. HIVST has the potential to support HIV prevention objectives in settings with high prevalence of HIV.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03135067.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy W. Ruderman
- Gillings School of Global Public Health Department of Health Behaviour, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Perez Ochwal
- Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Noora Marcus
- Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sue Napierala
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Suzanne Maman
- Gillings School of Global Public Health Department of Health Behaviour, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Mantell J, Franks J, Zerbe A, Lamb MR, Reed DM, Omollo D, Lahuerta M, Naitore D, El-Sadr WM, Agot K. MPrEP+ study protocol: a prospective cohort study assessing the feasibility and acceptability of an HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) strategy for male clients of female sex workers in Kisumu, Kenya. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e064037. [PMID: 36332953 PMCID: PMC9639093 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Male clients (MCs) are integral to sex work-driven HIV transmission dynamics as sexual partners of female sex worker (FSW). MCs contribute disproportionately to incident HIV globally and in sub-Saharan Africa, with 27% of new infections attributed to MCs of FSW and other partners of key populations. Gaps in coverage of HIV testing and prevention services for men, including MCs, are well-documented, yet research and innovative interventions to improve MC uptake of effective prevention services, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), are scarce. METHODS AND ANALYSIS MPrEP+ is a cohort study designed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a PrEP-focused HIV prevention strategy providing daily oral tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) in combination with three adherence self-management interventions: (1) use of a validated point-of-care urine drug-level assay with real-time feedback and tailored self-management counselling; (2) frequent HIV self-testing; and (3) weekly one-way text messaging. This package of interventions is being delivered to 120 MCs enrolled in the study in Kisumu, Kenya over a 6-month period. The primary outcome is PrEP adherence at 6 months as measured by PrEP drug levels. Bivariate and multivariable regression models will be used to identify predictors of PrEP adherence. We will also explore associations of sociodemographic characteristics and PrEP beliefs with PrEP adherence. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study was approved by the Columbia University Irving Medical Center Institutional Review Board and the Maseno University Ethical Review Committee. Study enrolment was initiated in November 2021 with participant follow-up planned through August 2022. Study results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Summaries and infographics of study findings will be developed and distributed to MC, FSW and stakeholders working in HIV prevention and support for people who sell and buy sex, including Kenya's Ministry of Health. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04898699; Registered on 24 May 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Mantell
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Gender, Sexuality and Health Area, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City, New York, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Julie Franks
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Allison Zerbe
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Matthew R Lamb
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Domonique M Reed
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Dan Omollo
- Impact Research And Development Organisation, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Maria Lahuerta
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Doris Naitore
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Wafaa M El-Sadr
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research And Development Organisation, Kisumu, Kenya
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Zhang H, Wang M, Zhang Y, Tan S, Huang H, Zhu J, Tian W, Mo J, Mo J, Cen P, Ning C. Usability of dual HIV/syphilis self-testing among men who have sex with men in China: study protocol for a three-arm randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e059034. [PMID: 36216414 PMCID: PMC9558798 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059034] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV self-testing (HIVST) provides a key measure for the early detection of HIV infection in men who have sex with men (MSM). However, dual HIV/syphilis self-testing in the MSM population has not been studied. We describe a randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effect of dual HIV/syphilis self-testing on the testing frequency among MSM in China. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This randomised controlled trial will be implemented in Guangxi, China. 330 MSM, including 255 frequent testers and 75 less frequent testers, will be recruited and randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio into one of three arms: a site-based testing arm, a single HIVST arm and a dual HIV/syphilis self-testing arm. Participants in the single HIVST arm and dual HIV/syphilis self-testing arm will receive two free finger-prick-based HIVST or HIV/syphilis self-testing kits at enrolment. The data will be collected at five separate times: baseline, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 12 months. The primary outcome is the mean frequency of HIV testing used by MSM after intervention comparing each group during the study period. The secondary outcome includes changes in sex behaviours (eg, number of male sex partners and the proportion of consistent condom use) and the mean number of HIV tests used by the social network members over the study period. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study protocol was reviewed and approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Guangxi Medical University, China (20210173). The study results will be disseminated through conferences and academic journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ChiCTR2100050898.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhang
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Min Wang
- Nursing College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Nursing College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Sumin Tan
- Nursing College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Haimei Huang
- Nursing College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jiawen Zhu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Weiyi Tian
- Nursing College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinli Mo
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jieling Mo
- Nursing College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Ping Cen
- AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Nanning Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Chuanyi Ning
- Nursing College, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Key Lab of AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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Mugambi ML, Pintye J, Heffron R, Barnabas RV, John-Stewart G. HIV Prevention Tools Across the Pregnancy Continuum: What Works, What Does Not, and What Can We Do Differently? Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:293-300. [PMID: 35984551 PMCID: PMC9717592 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00621-1] [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] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Multiple tools exist to support the primary prevention of HIV in pregnant and postpartum women; however, there are opportunities to enhance their use and impact. This review summarizes the current status of HIV prevention tools and existing gaps and opportunities to improve their use along the pregnancy care continuum. RECENT FINDINGS HIV screening efforts have steadily improved with close to universal screening of pregnant women in several East and Southern African countries. Strategies to implement partner testing through the distribution of HIV self-test kits are promising though linkage to care remains challenging. Syphilis screening rates are increasing though detection of other sexually transmitted infections could benefit from improved diagnostic capacity. Male and female condoms are rarely used and are often not the optimal tool of choice during pregnancy. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising tool, although barriers such as the need for daily adherence, side effects, and stigma may limit its use. There is a growing pipeline of PrEP agents with alternative delivery platforms that might suit women's preferences better and supports the notion that choice is vital to improving HIV prevention coverage during the pregnancy-postpartum continuum. Clear guidance on which tools to use and how to use them, safety data supporting their use, and surveillance data documenting the scale and effectiveness of the tools will be imperative in establishing a path to more impactful prevention efforts among pregnant and postpartum women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Latigo Mugambi
- Department of Global Health, Hans Rosling Center, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave NE, Box 351620, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| | - Jillian Pintye
- Department of Global Health, Hans Rosling Center, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave NE, Box 351620, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health, Hans Rosling Center, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave NE, Box 351620, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AB, USA
| | - Ruanne Vanessa Barnabas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, Hans Rosling Center, University of Washington, 3980 15th Ave NE, Box 351620, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Budzyńska J, Patryn R, Kozioł I, Leśniewska M, Kopystecka A, Skubel T. Self-Testing as a Hope to Reduce HIV in Transgender Women—Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159331. [PMID: 35954695 PMCID: PMC9368376 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
So far, the rate of HIV-positive people who do not know their sero-status is about 14% and the percentage is higher among transgender women (TGW). They represent one of the most vulnerable groups to infection. HIV self-testing (HIVST) may be a way to reduce transmission of the virus. The aim of this analysis and in-depth review was to collect available data on factors that may influence the use and dissemination of HIVST among TGW. This review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. All data from 48 papers were used. From the available literature, HIVST is a convenient and preferred method of testing due to its high confidentiality and possibility of being performed at home. However, there are barriers that limit its use, including marginalization of transgender people, stigma by medical personnel, lack of acceptance of sexual partners, and even cultural standards. Therefore, there is a need for activities that promote and inform on the possibility of using HIVST as well as enable easier access to it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Budzyńska
- Students’ Scientific Group on Medical Law, Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland; (I.K.); (M.L.); (A.K.); (T.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Rafał Patryn
- Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Ilona Kozioł
- Students’ Scientific Group on Medical Law, Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland; (I.K.); (M.L.); (A.K.); (T.S.)
| | - Magdalena Leśniewska
- Students’ Scientific Group on Medical Law, Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland; (I.K.); (M.L.); (A.K.); (T.S.)
| | - Agnieszka Kopystecka
- Students’ Scientific Group on Medical Law, Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland; (I.K.); (M.L.); (A.K.); (T.S.)
| | - Tomasz Skubel
- Students’ Scientific Group on Medical Law, Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland; (I.K.); (M.L.); (A.K.); (T.S.)
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Kiptinness C, Kuo AP, Reedy AM, Johnson CC, Ngure K, Wagner AD, Ortblad KF. Examining the Use of HIV Self-Testing to Support PrEP Delivery: a Systematic Literature Review. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:394-408. [PMID: 35904695 PMCID: PMC9334974 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00617-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review HIV self-testing (HIVST) has the potential to expand access to and uptake of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery. We conducted a systematic literature review to understand the evidence on HIVST use for PrEP delivery. Recent Findings After screening 1055 records, we included eight: three randomized trials and five values and preferences studies. None measured PrEP initiation. Most studies occurred in Sub-Saharan Africa (7/8) and included different populations. One trial found that HIVST use between quarterly clinic visits as part of an adherence package with biofeedback slightly increased adherence; the other two trials found that HIVST use between or in lieu of quarterly clinic visits had no significant or non-inferior effects on adherence. HIVST to support PrEP delivery was acceptable, feasible, and preferred. Summary HIVST use for PrEP continuation largely resulted in similar outcomes to standard-of-care delivery and was perceived acceptable and feasible. Further research is needed to optimize HIVST use within PrEP programming. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11904-022-00617-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Kiptinness
- Department of Public and Global Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Alexandra P Kuo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Adriana M Reedy
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Cheryl C Johnson
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.,Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Anjuli D Wagner
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Katrina F Ortblad
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.
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Ngure K, Ortblad KF, Mogere P, Bardon AR, Thomas KK, Mangale D, Kiptinness C, Gakuo S, Mbaire S, Nyokabi J, Mugo NR, Baeten JM. Efficiency of 6-month PrEP dispensing with HIV self-testing in Kenya: an open-label, randomised, non-inferiority, implementation trial. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e464-e473. [PMID: 35777410 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00126-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is highly effective and is being implemented at scale at health clinics throughout sub-Saharan Africa. However, barriers to clinic-based PrEP delivery remain. We aimed to establish the efficiency of semiannual PrEP clinic visits supplemented with interim home-based HIV self-testing (HIVST) versus standard of care for HIV testing, drug refilling, and adherence among PrEP users. METHODS This was a randomised, open-label, non-inferiority trial done at the Partners in Health and Research Development clinic in Thika, Kenya. Eligible participants were HIV-negative adults (≥18 years) at risk of acquiring HIV who had started PrEP at least 1 month before enrolment. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to 6-month PrEP dispensing plus interim blood-based HIVST (with biannual clinic visits), 6-month PrEP dispensing plus interim oral fluid-based HIVST (with biannual clinic visits), or standard of care PrEP delivery (3-month PrEP dispensing with quarterly clinic visits). The three coprimary outcomes, measured at 6 months, were HIV testing (any testing between enrolment and the 6-month visit), PrEP refilling, and PrEP adherence (detectable tenofovir diphosphate concentration in dried blood spots). All analyses were done according to the intention-to-treat principle. We used binomial regression models to estimate risk differences and one-sided 95% CIs. 6-month PrEP dispensing was considered non-inferior to standard of care if the lower limit bound of the one-sided 95% CI was greater than or equal to -10%. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03593629. FINDINGS Between May 28, 2018, and Feb 24, 2020, 495 participants were enrolled: 165 men and 130 women in HIV serodifferent couples and 200 singly enrolled women. 166 participants were randomly assigned to the standard of care group, 163 to the 6-month PrEP dispensing plus oral-fluid HIVST group, and 166 to the 6-month PrEP dispensing plus blood-based HIVST group. At 6 months, 274 (83%) of 329 participants in the combined 6-month PrEP dispensing group had tested for HIV compared with 140 (84%) of 166 participants in the standard of care group (risk difference -1·15%, 95% CI lower bound -6·89). Among participants in the combined 6-month PrEP dispensing group, 257 (78%) participants refilled PrEP compared with 134 (81%) participants in the standard of care group (-2·60%, -8·88), and 200 (61%) participants were adherent to PrEP compared with 95 (57%) participants in the standard of care group (2·37%, -5·05). No participants acquired HIV during the study. INTERPRETATION 6-month PrEP dispensing with HIVST for interim testing reduced the number of PrEP clinic visits in half without compromising HIV testing, retention, or adherence. FUNDING US National Institute of Mental Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Katrina F Ortblad
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter Mogere
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ashley R Bardon
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Dorothy Mangale
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Stephen Gakuo
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah Mbaire
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jacinta Nyokabi
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, USA
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Mshweshwe-Pakela NT, Mabuto T, Shankland L, Fischer A, Tsukudu D, Hoffmann CJ. Digitally supported HIV self-testing increases facility-based HIV testing capacity in Ekurhuleni, South Africa. South Afr J HIV Med 2022; 23:1352. [PMID: 35923609 PMCID: PMC9257703 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v23i1.1352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV testing is the first step for linkage to HIV prevention or treatment services. Facility-based HIV testing is the most utilised method, but faces challenges such as limited work space and human resources. Digitally supported HIV self-testing (HIVST) provided in clinics shifts testing to the client, potentially empowering the client, and addresses such constraints. Objectives The study primary objective was to determine the feasibility of integrating digitally supported HIVST into the clinic. Secondary objectives were to describe HIV testing volume, populations reached, and antiretroviral treatment (ART) initiation. Method We conducted an analysis of prospectively collected data during implementation of digitally supported HIVST in two healthcare facilities based in South Africa from June 2019 to September 2019. We described implementation and client characteristics using HIVST and compared testing before and during implementation. Results During the 4-month implementation period there were 35 248 client visits. A total of 6997 (19.9%) of these visits involved HIV testing. Of those testing, 2278 (32.5%) used HIVST. Of the 2267 analysed, 264 (11.6%) were positive: 182 (12%) women and 82 (11%) men. Of those, 230 (95.4%) were confirmed HIV positive and 150 (65%) initiated ART within 14 days. During a four-month pre-implementation period, 14.5% of the clients tested for HIV. Compared to the pre-implementation period, we observed a 25% increase in HIV testing. Conclusion Digitally supported HIVST increased the number of clients completing HIV testing in the health facility, without a need to significantly increase staff or space. Facility-based digitally assisted HIVST has the potential to increase HIV testing in high HIV prevalence clinic populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nolundi T Mshweshwe-Pakela
- Department of Implementation Research, The Aurum Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tonderai Mabuto
- Department of Implementation Research, The Aurum Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Dikeledi Tsukudu
- Department of Health Systems, The Aurum Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Christopher J Hoffmann
- Department of Implementation Research, The Aurum Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States of America
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, United States of America
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Sheira LA, Kwena ZA, Charlebois ED, Agot K, Ayieko B, Gandhi M, Bukusi EA, Thirumurthy H, Camlin CS. Testing a social network approach to promote HIV self-testing and linkage to care among fishermen at Lake Victoria: study protocol for the Owete cluster randomized controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:463. [PMID: 35668499 PMCID: PMC9169331 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06409-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nearly 50% of men living with HIV in many countries are unaware of their HIV status; men also have lower uptake of HIV treatment and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). In SSA, highly mobile men such as those working in fishing communities alongside Lake Victoria have low uptake of HIV testing and low rates of linkage to HIV treatment and PrEP, despite increasing availability of these services. HIV self-testing (HIVST) kits hold promise for overcoming barriers to HIV testing and linkage to services for HIV-positive and HIV-negative men. We describe here a protocol for an HIV status-neutral, social network-based approach to promote HIV testing, linkage to care and prevention, and better health outcomes, including adherence, in fishermen around Lake Victoria. METHODS Utilizing beach management unit (BMU) registries of fishermen operating in three Lake Victoria fishing communities in Siaya County, Kenya, we completed a census and social network mapping to identify close social networks of men. Network clusters identified by a socially-central lead ("promotor") and selected to ensure maximal separation between treatment and control will be randomized. Promotors in both arms will receive basic HIV training; intervention promotors are further trained in HIVST to distribute kits to their cluster, while control promotors will distribute to their cluster vouchers for free HIVST at nearby clinics. We will test whether these promoters can enhance linkage to ART and PrEP after self-testing, thereby addressing a key limitation of HIVST. We will also measure 6- and 12-month viral load in those living with HIV and PrEP adherence among those without HIV via urine tenofovir levels as objective markers of adherence. DISCUSSION This study has the potential to improve HIV health and promote HIV prevention among a hard to reach, at-risk, and highly mobile population of men in Western Kenya-a critical population in Kenya's HIV prevention and treatment program. Further, if successful, this innovative social networks-based model could be scaled at the regional level to address HIV prevention and care among similarly at-risk populations of men in eastern Africa and inland fisheries settings across the continent. TRIAL REGISTRATION Self-Test Strategies and Linkage Incentives to Improve ART and PrEP Uptake in Men, registered on February 26, 2021, registration # NCT04772469 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Lila A. Sheira
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave. Building 100, Ward 84, San Francisco, USA
| | - Zachary A. Kwena
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Edwin D. Charlebois
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Kawango Agot
- grid.434865.80000 0004 0605 3832Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Benard Ayieko
- grid.434865.80000 0004 0605 3832Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Monica Gandhi
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave. Building 100, Ward 84, San Francisco, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research institute, Nairobi, Kenya ,grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- grid.25879.310000 0004 1936 8972Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, USA ,grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
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Joseph Davey DL, Wall KM, Naidoo N, Naidoo D, Xaba G, Serao C, Malone T, Dovel K. HIV testing and linkage to ART following secondary distribution of HIV self-test kits to male partners of women living with HIV: a pilot randomized control trial in Mpumalanga, South Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25937. [PMID: 35690880 PMCID: PMC9188623 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION South African men are underrepresented in HIV testing and treatment services. Secondary distribution of oral HIV self-test (HIVST) kits by women living with HIV (WLHIV) to their male partners (i.e. index partner HIVST) may increase men's testing and treatment but has been understudied. METHODS Between March and July 2021, we evaluated the effectiveness of index partner HIVST versus the standard of care (SOC) (invitations for men's facility-based testing) on men's testing in a 1:1 randomized control trial. Eligibility criteria included: WLHIV; ≥18 years of age; attending one of four high-density rural clinics; have a working cell phone; and self-reported having a primary male partner of unknown serostatus. The primary outcome was the proportion of WLHIV reporting that her partner tested for HIV within 3 months after enrolment. RESULTS We enrolled 180 WLHIV and 176 completed an endline survey (mean age = 35 years, 15% pregnant, 47% unmarried or non-cohabiting). In the HIVST arm, 78% of male partners were reported to have tested for HIV versus 55% in SOC (RR = 1.41; 95% CI = 1.14-1.76). In the HIVST arm, nine men were reactive with HIVST (14% positivity), six were confirmed HIV positive with standard testing (67%) and all of those started antiretroviral therapy (ART), and four HIV-negative men started pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) (5%). In SOC, six men were diagnosed with HIV (12% positivity), 100% started ART and seven HIV-negative men started PrEP (16%). One case of verbal intimate partner violence was reported in the HIVST arm. CONCLUSIONS Secondary distribution of HIVST to partners of WLHIV was acceptable and effective for improving HIV testing among men in rural South Africa in our pilot study. Interventions are needed to link reactive HIVST users to confirmatory testing and ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dvora L Joseph Davey
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kristin M Wall
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | - Gugu Xaba
- BroadReach Healthcare, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Claire Serao
- BroadReach Healthcare, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Todd Malone
- BroadReach Healthcare, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathryn Dovel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Hubbard JA, Mphande M, Phiri K, Balakasi K, Hoffman RM, Daniels J, Choko A, Coates TJ, Dovel K. Improving ART initiation among men who use HIV self-testing in Malawi: a qualitative study. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25950. [PMID: 35700027 PMCID: PMC9196890 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV self-testing (HIVST) increases HIV testing uptake among men; however, the linkage to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among HIVST users is low. Innovative strategies for ART initiation are needed, yet little is known about the unique barriers to care experienced by male HIVST users, and what ART-related interventions men desire. METHODS We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with cisgender men (≥15 years) in Malawi who tested HIV positive using HIVST between 2018 and 2020, as well as interviews with their female partners (≥15 years) who distributed the HIVST kits. Medical records from seven facilities were used to identify respondents. We included men who received HIVST from a health facility (primary distribution) and from sexual partners (secondary distribution). Interview guides focused on unique barriers to ART initiation following HIVST and desired interventions to improve linkage and initiation. Interviews were audio recorded, translated and transcribed to English, and analysed using constant comparison methods in Atlas.ti v.8.4. Themes were compared by HIVST distribution strategy. Data were collected between 2019 and 2020. RESULTS Twenty-seven respondents were interviewed: eight male/female dyads (16 respondents), eight men without a female partner and three women who represented men who did not participate in the study. Among the 19 men represented (16 men interviewed in person, three represented by secondary report from female partners), seven received HIVST through primary distribution, 12 through secondary distribution. Six men never initiated ART (all secondary HIVST distribution). Barriers to ART initiation centred on the absence of healthcare workers at the time of diagnosis and included lack of external motivation for linkage to care (men had to motivate themselves) and lack of counselling before and after testing (leaving ART-related fears and misconceptions unaddressed)--the latter was especially true for secondary HIVST distribution. Desired interventions were similar across distribution strategies and included ongoing peer mentorship for normalizing treatment adherence, counselling messages tailored to men, outside-facility services for convenience and privacy, and facility navigation to help men understand how to navigate ART clinics. CONCLUSIONS Male HIVST users face unique challenges to ART initiation, especially those receiving HIVST through secondary distribution. Male-tailored interventions are desired by men and may help overcome barriers to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A. Hubbard
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Partners in Hope Medical CenterLilongweMalawi
| | | | | | | | - Risa M. Hoffman
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Joseph Daniels
- Edson College of Nursing and Health InnovationArizona State UniversityPhoenixArizonaUSA
| | - Augustine Choko
- Malawi‐Liverpool‐Wellcome Trust Clinical Research ProgrammeTB/HIVBlantyreMalawi
| | - Thomas J. Coates
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- University of California Global Health InstituteSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kathryn Dovel
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Partners in Hope Medical CenterLilongweMalawi
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