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Chen P, Simonetto DA, Paul S, Patel A. Health disparities experienced by sexual and gender minority individuals living with or at risk of chronic liver disease. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2023; 22:152-156. [PMID: 37908866 PMCID: PMC10615390 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Chen
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Douglas A. Simonetto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sonali Paul
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Center for Liver Diseases, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Arpan Patel
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Algarin AB, Wiginton JM, Sanchez TH, Hernandez-Avila M, Baruch-Dominguez R, Smith LR. Patient sexuality disclosure experience and associations with clinical sexual health outcomes among HIV-negative men who have sex with men in Mexico. Prev Med 2022; 163:107225. [PMID: 36029923 PMCID: PMC9985480 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2022.107225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many men who have sex with men (MSM) do not disclose their sexuality to their healthcare provider, despite potential health benefits. Data from the 2017 Encuesta de Sexo Entre Hombres online survey of 13,277 HIV-negative or unknown status MSM in Mexico were used to explore MSM patients' sexuality disclosure experience on sexual health outcomes using multivariable Poisson models with robust variance estimation to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR). Sexual health outcomes included Hepatitis B (HepB) and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, and lifetime and past year HIV testing. Overall, 53.9% (n/N) disclosed their sexuality to their healthcare provider, and of those 6.4%, 62.9%, and 30.7% reported a negative, neutral, or positive disclosure experience, respectively. In comparison to no disclosure, neutral and positive disclosure experiences were associated with HepB vaccination (aPR[95% Confidence Interval (95% CI)] = 1.17[1.09, 1.25], p < 0.001; aPR[95% CI] = 1.35[1.25, 1.46], p < 0.001, respectively) and positive disclosure experiences were associated with HPV vaccination (aPR[95% CI] = 1.46[1.24, 1.71], p < 0.001). Those who disclosed their sexual behavior were more likely than those who did not disclose their sexual behavior to have received an HIV test in their lifetime (negative: aPR[95% CI] = 1.51[1.43, 1.60], p < 0.001; neutral: aPR[95% CI] = 1.61[1.56, 1.66], p < 0.001; positive: aPR[95% CI] = 1.64[1.58, 1.69], p < 0.001) and an HIV test in the past year (negative: aPR[95% CI] = 1.89[1.70, 2.10], p < 0.001; neutral: aPR[95% CI] = 2.09[1.98, 2.20], p < 0.001; positive: aPR[95% CI] = 2.24[2.12, 2.37], p < 0.001). There is a need to implement trainings for healthcare providers that focus on sexual health risk assessments and creating a space that encourages MSM patients and healthcare providers to discuss sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel B Algarin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - John Mark Wiginton
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Mauricio Hernandez-Avila
- Dirección de Presentaciones Económicas y Sociales, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Av. Reforma 476, col. Juárez, 06600 Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Ricardo Baruch-Dominguez
- International Planned Parenthood Federation, Western Hemisphere Region, Mexico City, MX, Mexico.
| | - Laramie R Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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Nadarzynski T, Frost M, Miller D, Wheldon CW, Wiernik BM, Zou H, Richardson D, Marlow LAV, Smith H, Jones CJ, Llewellyn C. Vaccine acceptability, uptake and completion amongst men who have sex with men: A systematic review, meta-analysis and theoretical framework. Vaccine 2021; 39:3565-3581. [PMID: 34034949 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) have been recommended to receive vaccinations against human papillomavirus, meningitis C and hepatitis A/B. This review aimed to compare the rates of vaccine acceptability, uptake and completion, and to identify determinants of vaccine outcomes specific to MSM to inform a theoretical framework. METHODS In January 2020 four databases were explored to identify vaccination behaviours and associated factors among MSM. A narrative systematic review and meta-analysis were performed. Data were synthesised for theoretical modelling. RESULTS Seventy-eight studies, mostly from the USA, were included. The average vaccine acceptability was 63% (median = 72%, range: 30%-97%), vaccine uptake 45% (median = 42%, range: 5%-100%) and vaccine completion 47% (median = 45%, range: 12%-89%). Six categories of factors associated with vaccination acceptability, uptake and completion were conceptualised: Individual (e.g., demographic and psychosocial); Interpersonal (e.g., peer education); Healthcare provider (e.g., vaccine recommendation); Organisational and practice setting (e.g., routine collection of patient sexual orientation information that is integrated into a clinical decision support system); Community environment (e.g., targeted health promotion campaigns); and National, state and local policy environment (e.g., public health guidelines targeting MSM). CONCLUSION Despite overall high levels of acceptability, uptake and completion rates were below targets predicted by cost-effectiveness modelling across all recommended vaccines. These parameters may need to be adjusted for more precise estimations of cost-effectiveness. Addressing the multiple levels of determinants, as outlined in our theoretical framework, will help guide interventions to increase vaccine completion among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miles Frost
- The University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Danny Miller
- The University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Huachun Zou
- Sun Yat-sen University, School of Public Health, Shenzhen, China
| | - Daniel Richardson
- Brighton & Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton; Brighton & Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Falmer, United Kingdom
| | - Laura A V Marlow
- Cancer Prevention Group, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Smith
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Carrie Llewellyn
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Falmer, United Kingdom
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4
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Wirtz AL, Cooney EE, Stevenson M, Radix A, Poteat T, Wawrzyniak AJ, Cannon CM, Schneider JS, Haw JS, Case J, Althoff KN, Humes E, Mayer KH, Beyrer C, Rodriguez AE, Reisner SL. Digital Epidemiologic Research on Multilevel Risks for HIV Acquisition and Other Health Outcomes Among Transgender Women in Eastern and Southern United States: Protocol for an Online Cohort. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e29152. [PMID: 33900202 PMCID: PMC8111508 DOI: 10.2196/29152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The HIV epidemic disproportionately impacts transgender women in the United States. Cohort studies identify unique risks for affected populations, but use of facility-based methods may bias findings towards individuals living in research catchment areas, more engaged in health services, or, in the case of transgender populations, those who are open about their transgender identity. Digital clinical trials and other online research methods are increasingly common, providing opportunity to reach those not commonly engaged in research. Simultaneously, there is a need to understand potential biases associated with digital research, how these methods perform, and whether they are accepted across populations. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess the feasibility of developing and implementing an online cohort of transgender women to assess risks for HIV acquisition and other health experiences. Further, this study aims to evaluate how an online cohort compares to a site-based, technology-enhanced cohort for epidemiologic research. The overarching goal is to estimate incidence of HIV and other health outcomes among transgender women in eastern and southern United States. METHODS This substudy is part of a larger multisite prospective cohort (LITE) conducted among transgender women, which also includes a site-based, technology-enhanced cohort in 6 eastern and southern US cities. The online cohort was launched to enroll and follow participants across 72 cities in the same region and with similar demographic characteristics as the site-based cohort. Participants are followed for 24 months. Adult transgender women are recruited via convenience sampling (eg, peer referrals, social media, and dating apps). Participants reporting negative or unknown HIV status are enrolled in a baseline study visit, complete a sociobehavioral survey, and provide oral fluid specimens to test for HIV. Participants not living with HIV (lab-confirmed) at baseline are offered enrollment into the cohort; follow-up assessments occur every 6 months. RESULTS Enrollment into the online cohort launched in January 2019. Active recruitment stopped in May 2019, and enrollment officially closed in August 2020. A total of 580 participants enrolled into and are followed in the cohort. A recruitment-enrollment cascade was observed across screening, consent, and completion of study activities. Implementation experiences with HIV test kits highlight the need for heavy staff engagement to support participant engagement, visit completion, and retention, even with automated digital procedures. CONCLUSIONS This study is responsive to increasing research interest in digital observational and intervention research, particularly for populations who are most affected by the HIV epidemic and for those who may otherwise not participate in person. The progression across stages of the recruitment-enrollment cascade provides useful insight for implementation of cohort studies in the online environment. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/29152.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Wirtz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Erin E Cooney
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Megan Stevenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Asa Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Tonia Poteat
- Center for Health Equity Research, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Andrew J Wawrzyniak
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Christopher M Cannon
- Research and Evaluation, Whitman-Walker Institute, Washington DC, DC, United States
| | | | - J Sonya Haw
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - James Case
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Keri N Althoff
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Elizabeth Humes
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States.,The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Allan E Rodriguez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sari L Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, United States.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
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- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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5
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Jain MK, Vigil KJ, Parisot P, Go G, Vu T, Li X, Hansen L, Taylor BS. Incidence and Predictors of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Clearance in HIV Patients: A Retrospective Multisite Study. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab116. [PMID: 34337091 PMCID: PMC8320286 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background New therapies to achieve hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) clearance are under development. However, gaps in knowledge exist in understanding the incidence and predictors of HBsAg clearance in a racially diverse HIV population. Methods We examined the incidence and risk of HBsAg clearance in a retrospective cohort of people with HIV/hepatitis B virus (HBV). Included patients had sufficient data to establish chronic infection based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. We examined the incident rate for HBsAg loss and hazard rate ratios to evaluate predictors for HBsAg clearance in a multivariable model. Results Among 571 HIV/HBV patients, 87% were male, 61% were Black, 45% had AIDS, 48% were HBeAg positive, and the median follow-up was 88 months. Incident HBsAg clearance was 1.5 per 100 person-years. In the multivariate model, those with AIDS at baseline (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.43; 95% CI, 1.37–4.32), Hispanics (aHR, 3.57; 95% CI, 1.33–9.58), and those with injection drug use as an HIV risk factor (aHR, 3.35; 95% CI, 1.26–8.89) were more likely to lose HBsAg, whereas those who were HBeAg positive (aHR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.19–0.63) were less likely to lose HBsAg. The median change in CD4 cell count during the observation period was 231 cells/mm3 in those with HBsAg loss vs 112 cells/mm3 in those with HBsAg persistence (P = .004). Conclusions HBsAg loss occurs in about 10% of those with chronic HBV infection. Being Hispanic, having AIDS at baseline, having an injection drug use history, and having HBeAg-negative status at baseline predicted the likelihood of HBsAg loss. Immune restoration may be a mechanism through which HBsAg loss occurs in HIV patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamta K Jain
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Parkland Health and Hospital System, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Karen J Vigil
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Population and Data Science, Dallas, Texas, USA.,University of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Houston, Texas,USA
| | - Paul Parisot
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Gabriella Go
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Population and Data Science, Dallas, Texas, USA.,University of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Houston, Texas,USA
| | - Trung Vu
- University of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Internal Medicine, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Xilong Li
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Population and Data Science, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Laura Hansen
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Barbara S Taylor
- University of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Internal Medicine, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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6
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Calin R, Massari V, Pialoux G, Reydellet N, Plenel E, Chauvin C, Jauffret-Roustide M, Day N, Kreplak G, Maresca AF, Derche N, Louis S, Pol S, Doré V, Rouzioux C, Chauvin P. Acceptability of on-site rapid HIV/HBV/HCV testing and HBV vaccination among three at-risk populations in distinct community-healthcare outreach centres: the ANRS-SHS 154 CUBE study. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:851. [PMID: 33198672 PMCID: PMC7670674 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05601-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV, HBV and HCV infections continue to represent major health concerns, especially among key at-risk populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWIDs), transgender women (TGW) and sex workers (SW). The objective of the ANRS-CUBE study was to evaluate the acceptability of a healthcare, community-based strategy offering a triple rapid HIV-HBV-HCV testing, and HBV vaccination, targeted at three priority groups (MSM, PWIDs and TGW/SWs), in three community centers, in the Paris area. METHODS This longitudinal multicentric non-randomized study included all adult volunteers attending one of the three specialized community centers in Paris, between July 2014 and December 2015. HIV, HBV and HCV status and acceptability of HBV vaccination were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 3662, MSM, 80 PWIDs and 72 TGW/SW were recruited in the three centers respectively. Acceptability of rapid tests was 98.5% in MSM and 14.9% in TGW/SWs, but could not be estimated in PWIDs since the number of users attending and the number of proposals were not recorded. User acceptability of HBV vaccination was weak, only 17.9% of the eligible MSM (neither vaccinated, nor infected) agreed to receive the first dose, 12.2% two doses, 5.9% had a complete vaccination. User acceptability of HBV vaccination was greater in PWIDs and TGW/SWs, but decreased for the last doses (66.7 and 53.3% respectively received a first dose, 24.4 and 26.7% a second dose and 6.7 and 0% a third dose). Fifty-three participants (49 MSM and 4 PWIDs) were discovered HIV positive, more than half with a recent infection. All but two HIV positive participants were linked to appropriate care in less than one month. CONCLUSIONS Rapid HIV-HCV-HBV screening showed a very high level of acceptability among MSM. Efforts need to be made to improve immediate acceptability for HBV vaccination, especially among MSM, and follow-up doses compliance. Our results show the important role of community centers in reaching targets, often fragile, populations, while also suggesting the need to reinforce on-site human support in terms of testing and vaccination, especially when addressing PWIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxandra Calin
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, Hôpital Tenon, Groupe Hospitalier Est, AP-HP, 4 rue de la Chine, 75970, Paris, Cedex 20, France.
- Inserm, IPLESP, ERES, Institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Sorbonne Université, 75012, Paris, France.
| | - Véronique Massari
- Inserm, IPLESP, ERES, Institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Sorbonne Université, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Gilles Pialoux
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, Hôpital Tenon, Groupe Hospitalier Est, AP-HP, 4 rue de la Chine, 75970, Paris, Cedex 20, France
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Université, Paris 06, France
| | | | - Eve Plenel
- Le Kiosque, Checkpoint-Paris, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
| | - Carole Chauvin
- Le Kiosque, Checkpoint-Paris, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
- Cermes3, Inserm U988, CNRS UMR8211, EHESS, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Nesrine Day
- Laboratoires Centre Biologique Chemin Vert (CBCV), Paris, France
| | - Georges Kreplak
- Laboratoires Centre Biologique Chemin Vert (CBCV), Paris, France
| | - Anaenza Freire Maresca
- ARCAT, Pasaje Latino, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Ambroise Pare, Service de Médecine Interne, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | | | - Sandra Louis
- CSAPA 110 Les Halles, ARCAT, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
| | - Stanislas Pol
- AP-HP, Hôpital Cochin, Service d'hépatologie, Paris, France
| | - Véronique Doré
- ANRS: Agence Nationale de Recherche sur le sida et les hépatites virales, Paris, France
| | - Christine Rouzioux
- Le Kiosque, Checkpoint-Paris, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Faculté de Médecine, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Chauvin
- Inserm, IPLESP, ERES, Institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Sorbonne Université, 75012, Paris, France
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Jilich D, Malý M, Fleischhans L, Kulířová V, Machala L. Cross-sectional study on vaccination coverage in newly diagnosed HIV-infected persons in the Czech Republic. Cent Eur J Public Health 2019; 27:217-222. [PMID: 31580557 DOI: 10.21101/cejph.a5830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Individuals with HIV infection are at an increased risk for a number of infectious diseases, some of which are preventable by vaccination. Unfortunately, little is known about the attitudes of this population group to vaccination, therefore, we decided to find out vaccination coverage against 5 infections among newly diagnosed HIV-infected patients in the Czech Republic. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on newly diagnosed patients who started their follow-up care at the HIV Clinic of Na Bulovce Hospital during the two following years. Vaccination history data and results of serological tests were collected from all participants. RESULTS Enrolled were 269 HIV-positive subjects (94.1% males) with a mean age of 34.4 years, 64 subjects (23.8%) had tertiary education, 229 (85.1%) were men having sex with men, 32 (11.9%) were heterosexual, and 8 (3.0%) were injection drug users. The mean CD4+ T-lymphocyte count was 556.2/µL, with 149 persons (55.4%) who had a CD4+ T-lymphocyte count > 500/µL, and 68 (25.3%) individuals were late presenters with CD4+ T-lymphocyte count < 350/µL. A vaccination against tetanus was reported by 262 subjects (97.4%), against influenza by 18 subjects (6.7%), against tick-borne encephalitis by 18 subjects (6.7%), against viral hepatitis A by 78 persons (29.0%), and against hepatitis B by 104 subjects (38.7%). For influenza, tick-borne encephalitis and hepatitis A, a significant positive impact of tertiary education was found (p-values < 0.001-0.044). Vaccination coverage against both types of hepatitis was significantly lower in late presenters (p = 0.044 and p = 0.004, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Vaccination rates found in our cohort were except tetanus and hepatitis B in young people low, especially for influenza and tick-borne encephalitis. Higher level of education and less advanced HIV infection were associated with higher vaccination rates. To improve this unsatisfactory situation, more attention should be paid to vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Jilich
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Na Bulovce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Malý
- Department of Biostatistics, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lukáš Fleischhans
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Na Bulovce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Ladislav Machala
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Na Bulovce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
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8
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Wirtz AL, Cooney EE, Chaudhry A, Reisner SL. Computer-Mediated Communication to Facilitate Synchronous Online Focus Group Discussions: Feasibility Study for Qualitative HIV Research Among Transgender Women Across the United States. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e12569. [PMID: 30924782 PMCID: PMC6460306 DOI: 10.2196/12569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Novel, technology-based methods are rapidly increasing in popularity across multiple facets of quantitative research. Qualitative research, however, has been slower to integrate technology into research methodology. One method, computer-mediated communication (CMC), has been utilized to a limited extent for focus group discussions. Objective This study aimed to assess feasibility of an online video conferencing system to further adapt CMC to facilitate synchronous focus group discussions among transgender women living in six cities in eastern and southern United States. Methods Between August 2017 and January 2018, focus group discussions with adult transgender women were conducted in English and Spanish by research teams based in Boston, MA, and Baltimore, MD. Participants were sampled from six cities: Baltimore, MD; Boston, MA; New York, NY; Washington, DC; Atlanta, GA; and Miami, FL. This was formative research to inform a technology-enhanced cohort study to assess HIV acquisition among transgender women. This analysis focused on the methodologic use of CMC focus groups conducted synchronously using online software that enabled video or phone discussion. Findings were based on qualitative observations of attendance and study team debriefing on topics of individual, social, technical, and logistical challenges encountered. Results A total of 41 transgender women from all six cities participated in seven online focus group discussions—five English and two Spanish. There was equal racial distribution of black/African American (14/41, 34%) and white (14/41, 34%) attendees, with 29% (12/41) identifying as Hispanic/Latina ethnicity. Overall, 29 of 70 (41%) eligible and scheduled transgender women failed to attend the focus group discussions. The most common reason for nonattendance was forgetting or having a scheduling conflict (16/29, 55%). A total of 14% (4/29) reported technical challenges associated with accessing the CMC focus group discussion. CMC focus group discussions were found to facilitate geographic diversity; allow participants to control anonymity and privacy (eg, use of pseudonyms and option to use video); ease scheduling by eliminating challenges related to travel to a data collection site; and offer flexibility to join via a variety of devices. Challenges encountered were related to overlapping conversations; variable audio quality in cases where Internet or cellular connection was poor; and distribution of incentives (eg, cash versus gift cards). As with all focus group discussions, establishment of ground rules and employing both a skilled facilitator and a notetaker who could troubleshoot technology issues were critical to the success of CMC focus group discussions. Conclusions Synchronous CMC focus group discussions provide a secure opportunity to convene participants across geographic space with minimal time burden and without losing the standardized approach that is expected of focus group discussions. This method may provide an optimal alternative to engaging hard-to-reach participants in focus group discussions. Participants with limited technological literacy or inconsistent access to a phone and/or cellular data or service, as well as circumstances necessitating immediate cash incentives may, however, require additional support and accommodation when participating in CMC focus group discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Wirtz
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Erin E Cooney
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Aeysha Chaudhry
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sari L Reisner
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States.,Fenway Health, The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, United States
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- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Grov C, Cain D, Whitfield THF, Rendina HJ, Pawson M, Ventuneac A, Parsons JT. Recruiting a U.S. national sample of HIV-negative gay and bisexual men to complete at-home self-administered HIV/STI testing and surveys: Challenges and Opportunities. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2016; 13:1-21. [PMID: 26858776 PMCID: PMC4743043 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-015-0212-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
We describe enrollment for the One Thousand Strong panel, present characteristics of the panel relative to other large U.S. national studies of gay and bisexual men (GBM), and examine demographic and behavioral characteristics that were associated with passing enrollment milestones. A U.S. national sample of HIV-negative men were enrolled via an established online panel of over 22,000 GBM. Participants (n = 1071) passed three milestones to join our panel. Milestone 1 was screening eligible and providing informed consent. Milestone 2 involved completing an hour-long at-home computer-assisted self-interview (CASI) survey. Milestone 3 involved completing at-home self-administered rapid HIV testing and collecting/returning urine and rectal samples for gonorrhea and chlamydia testing. Compared to those who completed milestones: those not passing milestone 1 were more likely to be non-White and older; those not passing milestone 2 were less likely to have insurance or a primary care physician; and those not passing milestone 3 were less educated, more likely to be bisexual as opposed to gay, more likely to live in the Midwest, had fewer male partners in the past year, and less likely to have tested for HIV in the past year. Effect sizes for significant findings were small. We successfully enrolled a national sample of HIV-negative GBM who completed at-home CASI assessments and at-home self-administered HIV and urine and rectal STI testing. This indicates high feasibility and acceptability of incorporating self-administered biological assays into otherwise fully online studies. Differences in completion of study milestones indicate a need for further investigation into the reasons for lower engagement by certain groups.
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Vet R, de Wit JB, Das E. Factors associated with hepatitis B vaccination among men who have sex with men: a systematic review of published research. Int J STD AIDS 2015; 28:534-542. [PMID: 26503555 DOI: 10.1177/0956462415613726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review identified and synthesised evidence from published research regarding personal and environmental factors associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination uptake among gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in low prevalence, high-income countries. A systematic literature search identified 18 eligible papers that addressed factors potentially associated with HBV vaccination uptake among MSM, of which 16 reported research conducted in the US. Studies assessed possible associations between HBV vaccination among MSM and socio-demographic characteristics, behavioural and social-cognitive factors and indicators of health service access. Converging evidence was found for associations between HBV vaccination and younger age, gay self-identification, and not using alcohol and drugs; evidence suggests a lack of association between HBV vaccination and ethnicity. There was converging evidence for associations between HBV vaccination and social-cognitive factors, in particular knowledge, perceived vulnerability and perceived severity regarding HBV infection, and perceived barriers to HBV vaccination. Evidence further supported associations between HBV vaccination and indicators of health service access. While research regarding factors associated with HBV vaccination among MSM remains limited, the identified correlates of HBV vaccination among MSM provide important guidance for the development of health promotion interventions to effectively increase coverage of HBV vaccination among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Vet
- 1 Department of Social and Organizational Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,2 Raymond Vet is now at Ray of Light, Health Coaching & Consultancy, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - John Bf de Wit
- 1 Department of Social and Organizational Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,3 Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Enny Das
- 4 Centre for Language Studies, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Delany-Moretlwe S, Cowan FM, Busza J, Bolton-Moore C, Kelley K, Fairlie L. Providing comprehensive health services for young key populations: needs, barriers and gaps. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:19833. [PMID: 25724511 PMCID: PMC4344539 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.2.19833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescence is a time of physical, emotional and social transitions that have implications for health. In addition to being at high risk for HIV, young key populations (YKP) may experience other health problems attributable to high-risk behaviour or their developmental stage, or a combination of both. METHODS We reviewed the needs, barriers and gaps for other non-HIV health services for YKP. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar for articles that provided specific age-related data on sexual and reproductive health; mental health; violence; and substance use problems for adolescent, youth or young sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender people, and people who inject drugs. RESULTS YKP experience more unprotected sex, sexually transmitted infections including HIV, unintended pregnancy, violence, mental health disorders and substance use compared to older members of key populations and youth among the general population. YKP experience significant barriers to accessing care; coverage of services is low, largely because of stigma and discrimination experienced at both the health system and policy levels. DISCUSSION YKP require comprehensive, integrated services that respond to their specific developmental needs, including health, educational and social services within the context of a human rights-based approach. The recent WHO Consolidated Guidelines on HIV Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment and Care for Key Populations are an important first step for a more comprehensive approach to HIV programming for YKP, but there are limited data on the effective delivery of combined interventions for YKP. Significant investments in research and implementation will be required to ensure adequate provision and coverage of services for YKP. In addition, greater commitments to harm reduction and rights-based approaches are needed to address structural barriers to access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinead Delany-Moretlwe
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa;
| | - Frances M Cowan
- CeSHHAR Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Busza
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Karen Kelley
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lee Fairlie
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Abstract
UNLABELLED The recent epidemic history of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections in the United States is complex, as indicated by current disparity in HBV genotype distribution between acute and chronic hepatitis B cases and the rapid decline in hepatitis B incidence since the 1990s. We report temporal changes in the genetic composition of the HBV population using whole-genome sequences (n = 179) from acute hepatitis B cases (n = 1,206) identified through the Sentinel County Surveillance for Acute Hepatitis (1998 to 2006). HBV belonged mainly to subtypes A2 (75%) and D3 (18%), with times of their most recent common ancestors being 1979 and 1987, respectively. A2 underwent rapid population expansions in ca. 1995 and ca. 2002, coinciding with transient rises in acute hepatitis B notification rates among adults; D3 underwent expansion in ca. 1998. A2 strains from cases identified after 2002, compared to those before 2002, tended to cluster phylogenetically, indicating selective expansion of specific strains, and were significantly reduced in genetic diversity (P = 0.001) and frequency of drug resistance mutations (P = 0.001). The expansion of genetically close HBV A2 strains was associated with risk of infection among male homosexuals (P = 0.03). Incident HBV strains circulating in the United States were recent in origin and restricted in genetic diversity. Disparate transmission dynamics among phylogenetic lineages affected the genetic composition of HBV populations and their capacity to maintain drug resistance mutations. The tendency of selectively expanding HBV strains to be transmitted among male homosexuals highlights the need to improve hepatitis B vaccination coverage among at-risk adults. IMPORTANCE Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains an important cause of acute and chronic liver disease globally and in the United States. Genetic analysis of HBV whole genomes from cases of acute hepatitis B identified from 1998 to 2006 in the United States showed dominance of genotype A2 (75%), followed by D3 (18%). Strains of both subtypes were recent in origin and underwent rapid population expansions from 1995 to 2000, indicating increase in transmission rate for certain HBV strains during a period of decline in the reported incidence of acute hepatitis B in the United States. HBV A2 strains from a particular cluster that experienced the most recent population expansion were more commonly detected among men who have sex with men. Vaccination needs to be stepped up to protect persons who remain at risk of HBV infection.
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Pitasi MA, Bingham TA, Sey EK, Smith AJ, Teshale EH. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, immunity and susceptibility among men who have sex with men (MSM), Los Angeles County, USA. AIDS Behav 2014; 18 Suppl 3:248-55. [PMID: 24276792 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-013-0670-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) bear a disproportionate burden of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. We used serologic data from the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance (NHBS) system to determine the prevalence and correlates of HBV infection, immunization, and susceptibility in a sample of Los Angeles County MSM. Approximately 19 % (95 % CI 15-24 %) had serologic evidence of current or past infection, while 35 % (95 % CI 30-40 %) were susceptible. Compared with the youngest age group, MSM ages 40-49 years had a lower prevalence of immunization (aPR 0.28, 95 % CI 0.17-0.45) and a higher prevalence of infection (aPR 8.53, 95 % CI 3.95-18.4) and susceptibility (aPR 2.02, 95 % CI 1.13-3.63). We also observed poor concordance between self-reported and serologic measures of vaccination. Our results indicate the possibility of missed opportunities to vaccinate MSM. Gaps in implementing existing vaccination strategies must be addressed to increase hepatitis B vaccination coverage for MSM, especially in older age groups.
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Lea T, Lee E, Mao L, de Wit J, Holt M. HIV and hepatitis C virus co-infection among men who have sex with men in Sydney, and associations with sexual and drug use practices. Sex Health 2014; 10:448-51. [PMID: 23849088 DOI: 10.1071/sh13042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years there has been an increase in the incidence of acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) in men who have sex with men (MSM). The aim of the present study was to examine the prevalence of HIV/HCV co-infection among MSM in Sydney, and to compare sexual and drug use risk practices of HIV/HCV co-infected MSM with HIV and HCV mono-infected MSM. METHODS Data were collected from gay and other homosexually active men as part of the ongoing Gay Community Periodic Surveys (GCPS). The analysis herein presents findings from the Sydney GCPS in August 2011, which collected data on HCV for the first time. The survey was completed by 2009 respondents. RESULTS Three per cent of respondents self-reported being HCV positive (representing 9.0% of HIV-positive men and 1.9% of HIV-negative men). Overall, 1.2% of respondents reported being HIV/HCV co-infected. HIV/HCV co-infected men were more likely than HCV or HIV mono-infected men to report several sexual and drug use practices that may increase the risk of blood-borne virus transmission. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with other research, we found a higher prevalence of HCV among HIV-positive than HIV-negative men. Several risk practices were more commonly reported among HIV/HCV co-infected men. These findings, and the increasing incidence of HCV in MSM, reinforce the need for routine HCV screening in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toby Lea
- Centre for Social Research in Health, (Formerly National Centre in HIV Social Research), John Goodsell Building, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Xiridou M, van Houdt R, Hahné S, Coutinho R, van Steenbergen J, Kretzschmar M. Hepatitis B vaccination of men who have sex with men in the Netherlands: should we vaccinate more men, younger men or high-risk men? Sex Transm Infect 2013; 89:666-71. [PMID: 23812794 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2012-050900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The selective vaccination programme against hepatitis B virus (HBV) was introduced in the Netherlands in 2002 targeting high-risk groups, including men who have sex with men (MSM). Despite the high average age of vaccination in MSM, the number of notifications of acute HBV recently declined. We investigate whether this can be attributed to the selective vaccination programme. We examine how vaccination strategies could be improved and the impact of universal infant vaccination introduced in 2011. METHODS We use a mathematical model for HBV transmission among MSM. The incidence of HBV was calculated from the model and from notification data of acute HBV. RESULTS A decline was observed in the incidence of HBV since 2006, as calculated from the model; this decline was smaller than that observed in data if all MSM were equally likely to be vaccinated. Assuming that high-risk MSM were more likely to be vaccinated than low-risk MSM resulted in a steeper decline in modelled incidence and better agreement with observed incidence. Vaccinating MSM at a younger age or doubling the vaccination rate would increase the impact of selective vaccination, but is less effective than vaccinating high-risk MSM. CONCLUSIONS Selective HBV vaccination of MSM in the Netherlands has had a substantial impact in reducing HBV incidence. The reduction suggests that vaccination rates among high-risk MSM were higher than those among low-risk MSM. Countries that have not yet reached 35-year cohorts with universal childhood vaccination should actively implement or continue selective high-risk MSM vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Xiridou
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, , Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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Newman PA. Eight common misconceptions about HIV vaccines that may impede progress in controlling the AIDS epidemic. Future Virol 2012. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl.12.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Newman
- University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y4, Canada
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Newman PA, Roungprakhon S, Tepjan S, Yim S, Walisser R. A social vaccine? Social and structural contexts of HIV vaccine acceptability among most-at-risk populations in Thailand. Glob Public Health 2012; 7:1009-24. [PMID: 22780324 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2012.692388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
A safe and efficacious preventive HIV vaccine would be a tremendous asset for low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings, which bear the greatest global impact of AIDS. Nevertheless, substantial gaps between clinical trial efficacy and real-world effectiveness of already licensed vaccines demonstrate that availability does not guarantee uptake. In order to advance an implementation science of HIV vaccines centred on LMIC settings, we explored sociocultural and structural contexts of HIV vaccine acceptability among most-at-risk populations in Thailand, the site of the largest HIV vaccine trial ever conducted. Cross-cutting challenges for HIV vaccine uptake - social stigma, discrimination in healthcare settings and out-of-pocket vaccine cost - emerged in addition to population-specific barriers and opportunities. A 'social vaccine' describes broad sociocultural and structural interventions - culturally relevant vaccine promotion galvanised by communitarian norms, mitigating anti-gay, anti-injecting drug user and HIV-related stigma, combating discrimination in healthcare, decriminalising adult sex work and injecting drug use and providing vaccine cost subsidies - that create an enabling environment for HIV vaccine uptake among most-at-risk populations. By approaching culturally relevant social and structural interventions as integral mechanisms to the success of new HIV prevention technologies, biomedical advances may be leveraged in renewed opportunities to promote and optimise combination prevention.
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