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Mugglin C, Kläger D, Gueler A, Vanobberghen F, Rice B, Egger M. The HIV care cascade in sub-Saharan Africa: systematic review of published criteria and definitions. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25761. [PMID: 34292649 PMCID: PMC8297382 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The HIV care cascade examines the attrition of people living with HIV from diagnosis to the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and suppression of viral replication. We reviewed the literature from sub-Saharan Africa to assess the definitions used for the different steps in the HIV care cascade. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase and CINAHL for articles published from January 2004 to December 2020. Longitudinal and cross-sectional studies were included if they reported on at least one step of the UNAIDS 90-90-90 cascade or two steps of an extended 7-step cascade. A step was clearly defined if authors reported definitions for numerator and denominator, including the description of the eligible population and methods of assessment or measurement. The review protocol has been published and registered in Prospero. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Overall, 3364 articles were screened, and 82 studies from 19 countries met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were from Southern (38 studies, 34 from South Africa) and East Africa (29 studies). Fifty-eight studies (71.6%) were longitudinal, with a median follow-up of three years. The medium number of steps covered out of 7 steps was 3 (interquartile range [IQR] 2 to 4); the median year of publication was 2015 (IQR 2013 to 2019). The number of different definitions for the numerators ranged from four definitions (for step "People living with HIV") to 21 (step "Viral suppression"). For the denominators, it ranged from three definitions ("Diagnosed and aware of HIV status") to 14 ("Viral suppression"). Only 12 studies assessed all three of the 90-90-90 steps. Most studies used longitudinal data, but denominator-denominator or denominator-numerator linkages over several steps were rare. Also, cascade data are lacking for many countries. Our review covers the academic literature but did not consider other data, such as government reports on the HIV care cascade. Also, it did not examine disengagement and reengagement in care. CONCLUSIONS The proportions of patients retained at each step of the HIV care cascade cannot be compared between studies, countries and time periods, nor meta-analysed, due to the many different definitions used for numerators and denominators. There is a need for standardization of methods and definitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catrina Mugglin
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Delia Kläger
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Aysel Gueler
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Fiona Vanobberghen
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population HealthLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health InstituteBaselSwitzerland
- University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Brian Rice
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population HealthLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Matthias Egger
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research (CIDER)University of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Population Health SciencesBristol Medical SchoolUniversity of BristolBristolUK
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Yigezu A, Alemayehu S, Hamusse SD, Ergeta GT, Hailemariam D, Hailu A. Cost-effectiveness of facility-based, stand-alone and mobile-based voluntary counseling and testing for HIV in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. COST EFFECTIVENESS AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION 2020; 18:34. [PMID: 32944006 PMCID: PMC7488732 DOI: 10.1186/s12962-020-00231-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, there is a consensus to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030, and one of the strategies to achieve this target is that 90% of people living with HIV should know their HIV status. Even if there is strong evidence of clients' preference for testing in the community, HIV voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) continue to be undertaken predominantly in health facilities. Hence, empirical cost-effectiveness evidence about different HIV counseling and testing models is essential to inform whether such community-based testing are justifiable compared with additional resources required. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the cost-effectiveness of facility-based, stand-alone and mobile-based HIV voluntary counseling and testing methods in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. METHODS Annual economic costs of counseling and testing methods were collected from the providers' perspective from July 2016 to June 2017. Ingredients based bottom-up costing approach was applied. The effectiveness of the interventions was measured in terms of the number of HIV seropositive clients identified. Decision tree modeling was built using TreeAge Pro 2018 software, and one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted by varying HIV positivity rate, costs, and probabilities. RESULTS The cost of test per client for facility-based, stand-alone and mobile-based VCT was $5.06, $6.55 and $3.35, respectively. The unit costs of test per HIV seropositive client for the corresponding models were $158.82, $150.97 and $135.82, respectively. Of the three models, stand-alone-based VCT was extendedly dominated. Mobile-based VCT costs, an additional cost of USD 239 for every HIV positive client identified when compared to facility-based VCT. CONCLUSION Using a mobile-based VCT approach costs less than both the facility-based and stand-alone approaches, in terms of both unit cost per tested individual and unit cost per HIV seropositive cases identified. The stand-alone VCT approach was not cost-effective compared to facility-based and mobile-based VCT. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for mobile-based VCT compared with facility-based VCT was USD 239 per HIV positive case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanuel Yigezu
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Getachew Teshome Ergeta
- Bergen Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Damen Hailemariam
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Hailu
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Bergen Center for Ethics and Priority Setting, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Hoffman S, Leu CS, Ramjee G, Blanchard K, Gandhi AD, O'Sullivan L, Kelvin EA, Exner TM, Mantell JE, Lince-Deroche N. Linkage to Care Following an HIV Diagnosis in Three Public Sector Clinics in eThekwini (Durban), South Africa: Findings from a Prospective Cohort Study. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1181-1196. [PMID: 31677039 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02688-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Linkage to care following an HIV diagnosis remains an important HIV care continuum milestone, even in the era of universal ART eligibility. In an 8-month prospective cohort study among 459 (309 women, 150 men) newly-diagnosed HIV-positive individuals in three public-sector clinics in Durban metropolitan region, South Africa, from 2010 to 2013, median time to return to clinic for CD4+ results (linkage) was 10.71 weeks (95% CI 8.52-12.91), with 54.1% 3-month cumulative incidence of linkage. At study completion (9.23 months median follow-up), 26.2% had not linked. Holding more positive outcome-beliefs about enrolling in care was associated with more rapid linkage [adjusted hazard ratio (AHR)each additional belief 1.31; 95% CI 1.05-1.64] and lower odds of never linking [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.50; 95% CI 0.33-0.75]. Holding positive ARV beliefs was strongly protective against never linking to care. Age over 30 years (AHR 1.59; 95% CI 1.29-1.97) and disclosing one's HIV-positive status within 30 days of diagnosis (AHR 1.52; 95% CI 1.10-2.10) were associated with higher linkage rates and lower odds of never linking. Gender was not associated with linkage and did not alter the effect of other predictors. Although expanded access to ART has reduced some linkage barriers, these findings demonstrate that people's beliefs and social relations also matter. In addition to structural interventions, consistent ART education and disclosure support, and targeting younger individuals for linkage are high priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie Hoffman
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr., Unit 15, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Cheng-Shiun Leu
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr., Unit 15, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gita Ramjee
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Kelly Blanchard
- Ibis Reproductive Health, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Ibis Reproductive Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anisha D Gandhi
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr., Unit 15, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Lucia O'Sullivan
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, Canada
| | - Elizabeth A Kelvin
- Epidemiology & Biostatistics Program, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Theresa M Exner
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr., Unit 15, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Joanne E Mantell
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr., Unit 15, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Naomi Lince-Deroche
- Ibis Reproductive Health, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Ibis Reproductive Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Maheswaran H, Clarke A, MacPherson P, Kumwenda F, Lalloo DG, Corbett EL, Petrou S. Cost-Effectiveness of Community-based Human Immunodeficiency Virus Self-Testing in Blantyre, Malawi. Clin Infect Dis 2019; 66:1211-1221. [PMID: 29136117 PMCID: PMC5889018 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cix983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human immunodeficiency virus self-testing (HIVST) is effective, with scale-up underway in sub-Saharan Africa. We assessed cost-effectiveness of adding HIVST to existing facility-based HIV testing and counseling (HTC) services. Both 2010 (initiate at CD4 <350 cells/μL) and 2015 (initiate all) World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for antiretroviral treatment (ART) were considered. Methods A microsimulation model was developed to evaluate cost-effectiveness, from both health provider and societal perspectives, of an HIVST service implemented in a cluster-randomized trial (CRT; ISRCTN02004005) in Malawi. Costs and health outcomes were evaluated over a 20-year time horizon, using a discount rate of 3%. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was conducted to account for parameter uncertainty. Results From the health provider perspective and 20-year time horizon, facility HTC using 2010 WHO ART guidelines was the least costly ($294.71 per person; 95% credible interval [CrI], 270.79–318.45) and least effective (11.64 quality-adjusted life-years [QALYs] per person; 95% CrI, 11.43–11.86) strategy. Compared with this strategy, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for facility HTC using 2015 WHO ART guidelines was $226.85 (95% CrI, 198.79–284.35) per QALY gained. The strategy of facility HTC plus HIVST, using 2010 WHO ART guidelines, was extendedly dominated. The ICER for facility HTC plus HIVST, using 2015 WHO ART guidelines, was $253.90 (95% CrI, 201.71–342.02) per QALY gained compared with facility HTC and using 2015 WHO ART guidelines. Conclusions HIVST may be cost-effective in a Malawian population with high HIV prevalence. HIVST is suited to an early HIV diagnosis and treatment strategy. Clinical Trials registration ISRCTN02004005.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendramoorthy Maheswaran
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick Medical School, Coventry, United Kingdom.,Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Aileen Clarke
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick Medical School, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Peter MacPherson
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Felistas Kumwenda
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - David G Lalloo
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth L Corbett
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Stavros Petrou
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick Medical School, Coventry, United Kingdom
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Linkage to care of HIV positive clients in a community based HIV counselling and testing programme: A success story of non-governmental organisations in a South African district. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210826. [PMID: 30668598 PMCID: PMC6342293 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although current data projects South Africa potentially meeting the UN target to test 90% of all people living with HIV by 2020, linking them to HIV care remains a big challenge. In an effort to increase linkage to care (LTC) of HIV positive clients an innovative collaborative intervention between two non-governmental organisations was developed and implemented between 2016 and 2017. This paper investigated the outcome of this collaborative intervention. Methods We used a mixed methods approach to assess the outcome of the innovative relationship. This was done by analysing routine programmatic quantitative data on LTC between 2015 and 2017 and qualitatively interviewing five programme managers, four programme implementers and five HIV positive clients on their perceived success/failure factors. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic content analysis while LTC rates were descriptively analysed. Two consultative meetings presented draft findings to programme managers (n = 7) and implementers (n = 10) for feedback, results verification and confirmation. Results In 2015 cumulative LTC rate was 27% and it rose to 85% two years post-intervention in 2017. Six themes emerged as success factors at the health system and structural levels and these include: provision of client escort services, health facility human resource capacity strengthening, inter and intra-organisational teamwork, onsite LTC, facilitated and expedited jumping of queues and shifting administrative tasks to non-clinical staff to protect nurses’ time on ART initiation. These measures in turn ensured increased, affordable and swift ART initiation of clients while strengthening client support. Conclusions We concluded that multi-faceted interventions that target both health system challenges including staff shortages, efficiencies, and extended facility opening times, and structural inadequacies, including client time and resource limitations due to poverty or nature of jobs, can help to increase LTC.
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Smith P, Clayton J, Pike C, Bekker LG. A review of the atomoRapid HIV self-testing device: an acceptable and easy alternative to facilitate HIV testing. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2019; 19:9-14. [PMID: 30570364 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2019.1561286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Introduction:HIV testing is the gateway to both HIV prevention and treatment, and increased HIV testing and linkage to services is vital for an effective HIV response. HIV testing has progressed significantly from a lengthy laboratory process conducted by specialist medical staff to rapid point of care testing performed by trained lay staff. Despite HIV testing services being widely available, testing rates remain suboptimal among young people and men. Alternative delivery strategies that complement conventional testing services are needed to reach these priority groups. Areas covered:This article reviewed the AtomoRapid HIV self-testing (HIVST) device as an innovative alternative to conventional testing. Expert commentary:HIVST complements traditional HIV testing options and can be used to overcome major barriers to testing by catering for testing outside of conventional settings and by allowing individuals to test themselves privately, and at their own discretion and frequency. We conclude that the high sensitivity, specificity, acceptability, usability, and fidelity of this device makes it an appropriate option for the enhancement of HIV testing strategies for harder to reach populations, such as young people and men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Smith
- a The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Janine Clayton
- a The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Carey Pike
- a The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- a The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
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Chihana ML, Huerga H, Van Cutsem G, Ellman T, Wanjala S, Masiku C, Szumilin E, Etard JF, Davies MA, Maman D. Impact of "test and treat" recommendations on eligibility for antiretroviral treatment: Cross sectional population survey data from three high HIV prevalence countries. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207656. [PMID: 30475865 PMCID: PMC6261019 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Latest WHO guidelines recommend starting HIV-positive individuals on antiretroviral therapy treatment (ART) regardless of CD4 count. We assessed additional impact of adopting new WHO guidelines. Methods We used data of individuals aged 15–59 years from three HIV population surveys conducted in 2012 (Kenya) and 2013 (Malawi and South Africa). Individuals were interviewed at home followed by rapid HIV and CD4 testing if tested HIV-positive. HIV-positive individuals were classified as “eligible for ART” if (i) had ever been initiated on ART or (ii) were not yet on ART but met the criteria for starting ART based on country’s guidelines at the time of the survey (Kenya–CD4< = 350 cells/μl and WHO Stage 3 or 4 disease, Malawi as for Kenya plus lifelong ART for all pregnant and breastfeeding women, South Africa as for Kenya plus ART for pregnant and breastfeeding women until cessation of breastfeeding). Findings Of 18,991 individuals who tested, 4,113 (21.7%) were HIV-positive. Using country’s ART eligibility guidelines at the time of the survey, the proportion of HIV-infected individuals eligible for ART was 60.0% (95% CI: 57.2–62.7) (Kenya), 73.4% (70.8–75.8) (South Africa) and 80.1% (77.3–82.6) (Malawi). Applying WHO 2013 guidelines (eligibility at CD4< = 500 and Option B+ for pregnant and breastfeeding women), the proportions eligible were 82.0% (79.8–84.1) (Kenya), 83.7% (81.5–85.6) (South Africa) and 87.6% (85.0–89.8) (Malawi). Adopting “test and treat” would mean a further 18.0% HIV-positive individuals (Kenya), 16.3% (South Africa) and 12.4% (Malawi) would become eligible. In all countries, about 20% of adolescents (aged 15–19 years), became eligible for ART moving from WHO 2013 to “test and treat” while no differences by sex were observed. Conclusion Countries that have already implemented 2013 WHO recommendations, the burden of implementing “test and treat” would be small. Youth friendly programmes to help adolescents access and adhere to treatment will be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menard Laurent Chihana
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Epicentre, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Gilles Van Cutsem
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Southern Africa Medical Unit, Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tom Ellman
- Southern Africa Medical Unit, Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | - Jean Francois Etard
- Epicentre, Paris, France
- IRD UMI 233, INSERM U1175, Montpellier University, TransVIHMI, Montpellier, France
| | - Mary-Ann Davies
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David Maman
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Epicentre, Cape Town, South Africa
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MacPherson P, Webb EL, Lalloo DG, Nliwasa M, Maheswaran H, Joekes E, Phiri D, Squire B, Pai M, Corbett EL. Design and protocol for a pragmatic randomised study to optimise screening, prevention and care for tuberculosis and HIV in Malawi (PROSPECT Study). Wellcome Open Res 2018; 3:61. [PMID: 30542662 PMCID: PMC6259593 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.14598.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Adults seeking diagnosis and treatment for tuberculosis (TB) and HIV in low-resource settings face considerable barriers and have high pre-treatment mortality. Efforts to improve access to prompt TB treatment have been hampered by limitations in TB diagnostics, with considerable uncertainty about how available and new tests can best be implemented. Design and methods: The PROSPECT Study is an open, three-arm pragmatic randomised study that will investigate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of optimised HIV and TB diagnosis and linkage to care interventions in reducing time to TB diagnosis and prevalence of undiagnosed TB and HIV in primary care in Blantyre, Malawi. Participants (≥ 18 years) attending a primary care clinic with TB symptoms (cough of any duration) will be randomly allocated to one of three groups: (i) standard of care; (ii) optimised HIV diagnosis and linkage; or (iii) optimised HIV and TB diagnosis and linkage. We will test two hypotheses: firstly, whether prompt linkage to HIV care should be prioritised for adults with TB symptoms; and secondly, whether an optimised TB triage testing algorithm comprised of digital chest x-ray evaluated by computer-aided diagnosis software and sputum GeneXpert MTB/Rif can outperform clinician-directed TB screening. The primary trial outcome will be time to TB treatment initiation by day 56, and secondary outcomes will include prevalence of undiagnosed TB and HIV, mortality, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness. Conclusions: The PROSPECT Study will provide urgently-needed evidence under "real-life" conditions to inform clinicians and policy makers on how best to improve TB/HIV diagnosis and treatment in Africa. Clinical trial registration: NCT03519425 (08/05/2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter MacPherson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
| | - Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - David G. Lalloo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Marriott Nliwasa
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
- Helse Nord TB Programme, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Elizabeth Joekes
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dama Phiri
- Radiology Department, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Bertie Squire
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
| | - Madhukar Pai
- McGill International TB Centre, McGill University, Montreal , Canada
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Why do people living with HIV not initiate treatment? A systematic review of qualitative evidence from low- and middle-income countries. Soc Sci Med 2018; 213:72-84. [PMID: 30059900 PMCID: PMC6813776 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.05.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many people living with HIV (PLWH) who are eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) do not initiate treatment, leading to excess morbidity, mortality, and viral transmission. As countries move to treat all PLWH at diagnosis, it is critical to understand reasons for non-initiation. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of the qualitative literature on reasons for ART non-initiation in low- and middle-income countries. We screened 1376 titles, 680 abstracts, and 154 full-text reports of English-language qualitative studies published January 2000-April 2017; 20 met criteria for inclusion. Our analysis involved three steps. First, we used a "thematic synthesis" approach, identifying supply-side (facility) and demand-side (patient) factors commonly cited across different studies and organizing these factors into themes. Second, we conducted a theoretical mapping exercise, developing an explanatory model for patients' decision-making process to start (or not to start) ART, based on inductive analysis of evidence reviewed. Third, we used this explanatory model to identify opportunities to intervene to increase ART uptake. RESULTS Demand-side factors implicated in decisions not to start ART included feeling healthy, low social support, gender norms, HIV stigma, and difficulties translating intentions into actions. Supply-side factors included high care-seeking costs, concerns about confidentiality, low-quality health services, recommended lifestyle changes, and incomplete knowledge of treatment benefits. Developing an explanatory model, which we labeled the Transdisciplinary Model of Health Decision-Making, we posited that contextual factors determine the costs and benefits of ART; patients perceive this context (through cognitive and emotional appraisals) and form an intention whether or not to start; and these intentions may (or may not) be translated into actions. Interventions can target each of these three stages. CONCLUSIONS Reasons for not starting ART included consistent themes across studies. Future interventions could: (1) provide information on the large health and prevention benefits of ART and the low side effects of current regimens; (2) reduce stigma at the patient and community levels and increase confidentiality where stigma persists; (3) remove lifestyle requirements and support patients in integrating ART into their lives; and (4) alleviate economic burdens of ART. Interventions addressing reasons for non-initiation will be critical to the success of HIV "treat all" strategies.
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MacPherson P, Webb EL, Lalloo DG, Nliwasa M, Maheswaran H, Joekes E, Phiri D, Squire B, Pai M, Corbett EL. Design and protocol for a pragmatic randomised study to optimise screening, prevention and care for tuberculosis and HIV in Malawi (PROSPECT Study). Wellcome Open Res 2018; 3:61. [PMID: 30542662 PMCID: PMC6259593 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.14598.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Adults seeking diagnosis and treatment for tuberculosis (TB) and HIV in low-resource settings face considerable barriers and have high pre-treatment mortality. Efforts to improve access to prompt TB treatment have been hampered by limitations in TB diagnostics, with considerable uncertainty about how available and new tests can best be implemented. Design and methods: The PROSPECT Study is an open, three-arm pragmatic randomised study that will investigate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of optimised HIV and TB diagnosis and linkage to care interventions in reducing time to TB diagnosis and prevalence of undiagnosed TB and HIV in primary care in Blantyre, Malawi. Participants (≥ 18 years) attending a primary care clinic with TB symptoms (cough of any duration) will be randomly allocated to one of three groups: (i) standard of care; (ii) optimised HIV diagnosis and linkage; or (iii) optimised HIV and TB diagnosis and linkage. We will test two hypotheses: firstly, whether prompt linkage to HIV care should be prioritised for adults with TB symptoms; and secondly, whether an optimised TB triage testing algorithm comprised of digital chest x-ray evaluated by computer-aided diagnosis software and sputum GeneXpert MTB/Rif can outperform clinician-directed TB screening. The primary trial outcome will be time to TB treatment initiation by day 56, and secondary outcomes will include prevalence of undiagnosed TB and HIV, mortality, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness. Conclusions: The PROSPECT Study will provide urgently-needed evidence under "real-life" conditions to inform clinicians and policy makers on how best to improve TB/HIV diagnosis and treatment in Africa. Clinical trial registration: NCT03519425 (08/05/2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter MacPherson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
| | - Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - David G. Lalloo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Marriott Nliwasa
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
- Helse Nord TB Programme, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Elizabeth Joekes
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dama Phiri
- Radiology Department, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Bertie Squire
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
| | - Madhukar Pai
- McGill International TB Centre, McGill University, Montreal , Canada
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MacPherson P, Webb EL, Lalloo DG, Nliwasa M, Maheswaran H, Joekes E, Phiri D, Squire B, Pai M, Corbett EL. Design and protocol for a pragmatic randomised study to optimise screening, prevention and care for tuberculosis and HIV in Malawi (PROSPECT Study). Wellcome Open Res 2018; 3:61. [PMID: 30542662 PMCID: PMC6259593 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.14598.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Adults seeking diagnosis and treatment for tuberculosis (TB) and HIV in low-resource settings face considerable barriers and have high pre-treatment mortality. Efforts to improve access to prompt TB treatment have been hampered by limitations in TB diagnostics, with considerable uncertainty about how available and new tests can best be implemented. Design and methods: The PROSPECT Study is an open, three-arm pragmatic randomised study that will investigate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of optimised HIV and TB diagnosis and linkage to care interventions in reducing time to TB diagnosis and prevalence of undiagnosed TB and HIV in primary care in Blantyre, Malawi. Participants (≥ 18 years) attending a primary care clinic with TB symptoms (cough of any duration) will be randomly allocated to one of three groups: (i) standard of care; (ii) optimised HIV diagnosis and linkage; or (iii) optimised HIV and TB diagnosis and linkage. We will test two hypotheses: firstly, whether prompt linkage to HIV care should be prioritised for adults with TB symptoms; and secondly, whether an optimised TB triage testing algorithm comprised of digital chest x-ray evaluated by computer-aided diagnosis software and sputum GeneXpert MTB/Rif can outperform clinician-directed TB screening. The primary trial outcome will be time to TB treatment initiation by day 56, and secondary outcomes will include prevalence of undiagnosed TB and HIV, mortality, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness. Conclusions: The PROSPECT Study will provide urgently-needed evidence under "real-life" conditions to inform clinicians and policy makers on how best to improve TB/HIV diagnosis and treatment in Africa. Clinical trial registration: NCT03519425 (08/05/2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter MacPherson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
| | - Emily L Webb
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - David G. Lalloo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Marriott Nliwasa
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
- Helse Nord TB Programme, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Elizabeth Joekes
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dama Phiri
- Radiology Department, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Bertie Squire
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre , Malawi
| | - Madhukar Pai
- McGill International TB Centre, McGill University, Montreal , Canada
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Bello G, Faragher B, Sanudi L, Namakhoma I, Banda H, Malmborg R, Thomson R, Squire SB. The effect of engaging unpaid informal providers on case detection and treatment initiation rates for TB and HIV in rural Malawi (Triage Plus): A cluster randomised health system intervention trial. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183312. [PMID: 28877245 PMCID: PMC5587112 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The poor face barriers in accessing services for tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) disease. A cluster randomised trial was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of engaging unpaid informal providers (IPs) to promote access in a rural district. The intervention consisted of training unpaid IPs in TB and HIV disease recognition, sputum specimen collection, appropriate referrals, and raising community awareness. Methods In total, six clusters were defined in the study areas. Through a pair-matched cluster randomization process, three clusters (average cluster population = 200,714) were allocated to receive the intervention in the Early arm. Eleven months later the intervention was rolled out to the remaining three clusters (average cluster population = 209,564)—the Delayed arm. Treatment initiation rates for TB and Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) were the primary outcome measures. Secondary outcome measures included testing rates for TB and HIV. We report the results of the comparisons between the Early and Delayed arms over the 23 month trial period. Data were obtained from patient registers. Poisson regression models with robust standard errors were used to express the effectiveness of the intervention as incidence rate ratios (IRR). Results The Early and Delayed clusters were well matched in terms of baseline monthly mean counts and incidence rate ratios for TB and ART treatment initiation. However there were fewer testing and treatment initiation facilities in the Early clusters (TB treatment n = 2, TB testing n = 7, ART initiation n = 3, HIV testing n = 20) than in the Delayed clusters (TB treatment n = 4, TB testing n = 9, ART initiation n = 6, HIV testing n = 18). Overall there were more HIV testing and treatment centres than TB testing and treatment centres. The IRR was 1.18 (95% CI: 0.903–1.533; p = 0.112) for TB treatment initiation and 1.347 (CI:1.00–1.694; p = 0.049) for ART initiation in the first 12 months and the IRR were 0.552 (95% CI:0.397–0.767; p<0.001) and 0.924 (95% CI: 0.369–2.309, p = 0.863) for TB and ART treatment initiations respectively for the last 11 months. The IRR were 1.152 (95% CI:1.009–1.359, p = 0.003) and 1.61 (95% CI:1.385–1.869, p<0.001) for TB and HIV testing uptake respectively in the first 12 months. The IRR was 0.659 (95% CI:0.441–0.983; p = 0.023) for TB testing uptake for the last 11 months. Conclusions We conclude that engagement of unpaid IPs increased TB and HIV testing rates and also increased ART initiation. However, for these providers to be effective in promoting TB treatment initiation, numbers of sites offering TB testing and treatment initiation in rural areas should be increased. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02127983.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Bello
- Research for Equity And Community Health (REACH) Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Brian Faragher
- Centre for Applied Health Research & Delivery, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lifah Sanudi
- Research for Equity And Community Health (REACH) Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Ireen Namakhoma
- Research for Equity And Community Health (REACH) Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Hastings Banda
- Research for Equity And Community Health (REACH) Trust, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Rachael Thomson
- Centre for Applied Health Research & Delivery, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - S. Bertel Squire
- Centre for Applied Health Research & Delivery, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Determinants of time from HIV infection to linkage-to-care in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. AIDS 2017; 31:1017-1024. [PMID: 28252526 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate time from HIV infection to linkage-to-care and its determinants. Linkage-to-care is usually assessed using the date of HIV diagnosis as the starting point for exposure time. However, timing of diagnosis is likely endogenous to linkage, leading to bias in linkage estimation. DESIGN We used longitudinal HIV serosurvey data from a large population-based HIV incidence cohort in KwaZulu-Natal (2004-2013) to estimate time of HIV infection. We linked these data to patient records from a public-sector HIV treatment and care program to determine time from infection to linkage (defined using the date of the first CD4 cell count). METHODS We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate time from infection to linkage and the effects of the following covariates on this time: sex, age, education, food security, socioeconomic status, area of residence, distance to clinics, knowledge of HIV status, and whether other household members have initiated antiretroviral therapy. RESULTS We estimated that it would take an average of 4.9 years for 50% of HIV seroconverters to be linked to care (95% confidence intervals: 4.2-5.7). Among all cohort members who were linked to care, the median CD4 cell count at linkage was 350 cells/μl (95% confidence interval: 330-380). Men and participants aged less than 30 years were found to have the slowest rates of linkage-to-care. Time to linkage became shorter over calendar time. CONCLUSION Average time from HIV infection to linkage-to-care is long and needs to be reduced to ensure that HIV treatment-as-prevention policies are effective. Targeted interventions for men and young individuals have the largest potential to improve linkage rates.
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Hoffman S, Exner TM, Lince-Deroche N, Leu CS, Phillip JL, Kelvin EA, Gandhi AD, Levin B, Singh D, Mantell JE, Blanchard K, Ramjee G. Immediate Blood Draw for CD4+ Cell Count Is Associated with Linkage to Care in Durban, South Africa: Findings from Pathways to Engagement in HIV Care. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162085. [PMID: 27706150 PMCID: PMC5051894 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timely linkage to care by newly-diagnosed HIV+ individuals remains a significant challenge to achieving UNAIDS 90-90-90 goals. Current World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines recommend initiating anti-retroviral treatment (ART) regardless of CD4+ count, with priority given to those with CD4+ <350 cells/μl. We evaluated the impact of not having a day-of-diagnosis CD4+ count blood draw, as recommended by South African guidelines, on time to linkage, using data from a prospective cohort study. METHODS Individuals (N = 2773) were interviewed prior to HIV counseling and testing at three public sector primary care clinics in the greater Durban area; 785 were newly-diagnosed and eligible for the cohort study; 459 (58.5%) joined and were followed for eight months with three structured assessments. Linkage to care, defined as returning to clinic for CD4+ count results, and day-of-diagnosis blood draw were self-reported. RESULTS Overall, 72.5% did not have a day-of-diagnosis CD4+ count blood draw, and 19.2% of these never returned. Compared with a day-of-diagnosis blood draw, the adjusted hazard ratio of linkage (AHRlinkage) associated with not having day-of-diagnosis blood draw was 0.66 (95%CI: 0.51, 0.85). By 4 months, 54.8% of those without day-of-diagnosis blood draw vs. 75.2% with one were linked to care (chi-squared p = 0.004). Of those who deferred blood draw, 48.3% cited clinic-related and 51.7% cited personal reasons. AHRlinkage was 0.60 (95%CI: 0.44, 0.82) for clinic-related and 0.53 (95%CI: 0.38, 0.75) for personal reasons relative to having day-of-diagnosis blood draw. CONCLUSIONS Newly-diagnosed HIV+ individuals who did not undergo CD4+ count blood draw on the day they were diagnosed-regardless of the reason for deferring-had delayed linkage to care relative to those with same-day blood draw. To enhance prompt linkage to care even when test and treat protocols are implemented, all diagnostic testing required before ART initiation should be performed on the same day as HIV testing/diagnosis. This may require modifying clinic procedures to enable overnight blood storage if same-day draws cannot be performed, and providing additional counseling to encourage newly-diagnosed individuals to complete day-of-diagnosis testing. Tracking HIV+ individuals via clinic registries should commence immediately from diagnosis to reduce these early losses to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie Hoffman
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Theresa M. Exner
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Cheng-Shiun Leu
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jessica L. Phillip
- South African Medical Research Council, HIV Prevention Research Unit, Durban, South Africa
| | - Elizabeth A. Kelvin
- Epidemiology & Biostatistics Program, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Anisha D. Gandhi
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Bruce Levin
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Dinesh Singh
- South African Medical Research Council, HIV Prevention Research Unit, Durban, South Africa
| | - Joanne E. Mantell
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Kelly Blanchard
- Ibis Reproductive Health, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Gita Ramjee
- South African Medical Research Council, HIV Prevention Research Unit, Durban, South Africa
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Test site predicts HIV care linkage and antiretroviral therapy initiation: a prospective 3.5 year cohort study of HIV-positive testers in northern Tanzania. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:497. [PMID: 27646635 PMCID: PMC5028933 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1804-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Linkage to HIV care is crucial to the success of antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs worldwide, loss to follow up at all stages of the care continuum is frequent, and long-term prospective studies of care linkage are currently lacking. Methods Consecutive clients who tested HIV-positive were enrolled from four HIV testing centers (1 health facility and 3 community-based centers) in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania as part of the larger Coping with HIV/AIDS in Tanzania (CHAT) prospective observational study. Biannual interviews were conducted over 3.5 years, assessing care linkage, retention, and mental health. Bivariable and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine associations with early death (prior to the second follow up interview) and delayed (>6 months post-test) or failed care linkage. Results A total of 263 participants were enrolled between November, 2008 and August, 2009 and 240 participants not already linked to care were retained in the final dataset. By 6 months after enrollment, 169 (70.4 %) of 240 participants had presented to an HIV care and treatment facility; 41 (17.1 %) delayed more than 6 months, 15 (6.3 %) died, and 15 (6.3 %) were lost to follow up. Twenty-six patients died before their second follow up visit and were analyzed in the early death group (10.8 %). Just 15 (9.6 %) of those linked to care had started ART within 6 months, but 123 (89.1 %) of patients documented to be ART eligible by local guidelines had started ART by the end of 3.5 years. On multivariate analysis, male gender (OR 1.72; 95 % CI 1.08, 2.75), testing due to illness (OR 1.63; 95 % CI 1.01, 2.63), and higher mean depression scale scores (4 % increased risk per increase in depression score; 95 % CI 1 %, 8 %) were associated with early death. Testing at a community versus a hospital-based site (OR 2.89; 95 % CI 1.79, 4.66) was strongly associated with delaying or never entering care. Conclusions Nearly 30 % of the cohort did not have timely care linkage, ART initiation was frequently delayed, and testing at a hospital outpatient department versus community-based testing centers was strongly associated with successful care linkage.
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Nliwasa M, MacPherson P, Chisala P, Kamdolozi M, Khundi M, Kaswaswa K, Mwapasa M, Msefula C, Sohn H, Flach C, Corbett EL. The Sensitivity and Specificity of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Assay for Tuberculosis Diagnosis in Adults with Chronic Cough in Malawi. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155101. [PMID: 27171380 PMCID: PMC4865214 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current tuberculosis diagnostics lack sensitivity, and are expensive. Highly accurate, rapid and cheaper diagnostic tests are required for point of care use in low resource settings with high HIV prevalence. OBJECTIVE To investigate the sensitivity and specificity, and cost of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for tuberculosis diagnosis in adults with chronic cough compared to Xpert® MTB/RIF, fluorescence smear microscopy. METHODS Between October 2013 and March 2014, consecutive adults at a primary care clinic were screened for cough, offered HIV testing and assessed for tuberculosis using LAMP, Xpert® MTB/RIF and fluorescence smear microscopy. Sensitivity and specificity (with culture as reference standard), and costs were estimated. RESULTS Of 273 adults recruited, 44.3% (121/273) were HIV-positive and 19.4% (53/273) had bacteriogically confirmed tuberculosis. The sensitivity of LAMP compared to culture was 65.0% (95% CI: 48.3% to 79.4%) with 100% (95% CI: 98.0% to 100%) specificity. The sensitivity of Xpert® MTB/RIF (77.5%, 95% CI: 61.5% to 89.2%) was similar to that of LAMP, p = 0.132. The sensitivity of concentrated fluorescence smear microscopy with routine double reading (87.5%, 95% CI: 73.2% to 95.8%) was higher than that of LAMP, p = 0.020. All three tests had high specificity. The lowest cost per test of LAMP was at batch size of 14 samples (US$ 9.98); this was lower than Xpert® MTB/RIF (US$ 13.38) but higher than fluorescence smear microscopy (US$ 0.65). CONCLUSION The sensitivity of LAMP was similar to Xpert® MTB/RIF but lower than fluorescence smear microscopy; all three tests had high specificity. These findings support the Malawi policy that recommends a combination of fluorescence smear microscopy and Xpert® MTB/RIF prioritised for people living with HIV, already found to be smear-negative, or being considered for retreatment of tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marriott Nliwasa
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
- Malawi-Liverpool-Welcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter MacPherson
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Palesa Chisala
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Mercy Kamdolozi
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
- Malawi-Liverpool-Welcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - McEwen Khundi
- Malawi-Liverpool-Welcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Kruger Kaswaswa
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Mphatso Mwapasa
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Chisomo Msefula
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Hojoon Sohn
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Clare Flach
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth L. Corbett
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
- Malawi-Liverpool-Welcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, United Kingdom
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Maheswaran H, Petrou S, MacPherson P, Choko AT, Kumwenda F, Lalloo DG, Clarke A, Corbett EL. Cost and quality of life analysis of HIV self-testing and facility-based HIV testing and counselling in Blantyre, Malawi. BMC Med 2016; 14:34. [PMID: 26891969 PMCID: PMC4759936 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-016-0577-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV self-testing (HIVST) has been found to be highly effective, but no cost analysis has been undertaken to guide the design of affordable and scalable implementation strategies. METHODS Consecutive HIV self-testers and facility-based testers were recruited from participants in a community cluster-randomised trial ( ISRCTN02004005 ) investigating the impact of offering HIVST in addition to facility-based HIV testing and counselling (HTC). Primary costing studies were undertaken of the HIVST service and of health facilities providing HTC to the trial population. Costs were adjusted to 2014 US$ and INT$. Recruited participants were asked about direct non-medical and indirect costs associated with accessing either modality of HIV testing, and additionally their health-related quality of life was measured using the EuroQol EQ-5D. RESULTS A total of 1,241 participants underwent either HIVST (n = 775) or facility-based HTC (n = 446). The mean societal cost per participant tested through HIVST (US$9.23; 95 % CI: US$9.14-US$9.32) was lower than through facility-based HTC (US$11.84; 95 % CI: US$10.81-12.86). Although the mean health provider cost per participant tested through HIVST (US$8.78) was comparable to facility-based HTC (range: US$7.53-US$10.57), the associated mean direct non-medical and indirect cost was lower (US$2.93; 95 % CI: US$1.90-US$3.96). The mean health provider cost per HIV positive participant identified through HIVST was higher (US$97.50) than for health facilities (range: US$25.18-US$76.14), as was the mean cost per HIV positive individual assessed for anti-retroviral treatment (ART) eligibility and the mean cost per HIV positive individual initiated onto ART. In comparison to the facility-testing group, the adjusted mean EQ-5D utility score was 0.046 (95 % CI: 0.022-0.070) higher in the HIVST group. CONCLUSIONS HIVST reduces the economic burden on clients, but is a costlier strategy for the health provider aiming to identify HIV positive individuals for treatment. The provider cost of HIVST could be substantially lower under less restrictive distribution models, or if costs of oral fluid HIV test kits become comparable to finger-prick kits used in health facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendramoorthy Maheswaran
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick Medical School, Gibbet Hill Campus, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK. .,Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Stavros Petrou
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick Medical School, Gibbet Hill Campus, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Peter MacPherson
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside, L69 3BX, UK.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Pl, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Augustine T Choko
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Felistas Kumwenda
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - David G Lalloo
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Pl, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Aileen Clarke
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick Medical School, Gibbet Hill Campus, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Elizabeth L Corbett
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Molecular Diagnostics and the Changing Face of Point-of-Care. Mol Microbiol 2016. [DOI: 10.1128/9781555819071.ch39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Screening for Tuberculosis Among Adults Newly Diagnosed With HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 70:83-90. [PMID: 26049281 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE New tools, including light-emitting diode (LED) fluorescence microscopy and the molecular assay Xpert MTB/RIF, offer increased sensitivity for tuberculosis (TB) in persons with HIV but come with higher costs. Using operational data from rural Malawi, we explored the potential cost-effectiveness of on-demand screening for TB in low-income countries of Sub-Saharan Africa. DESIGN AND METHODS Costs were empirically collected in 4 clinics and in 1 hospital using a microcosting approach, through direct interview and observation from the national TB program perspective. Using decision analysis, newly diagnosed persons with HIV were modeled as being screened by 1 of the 3 strategies: Xpert, LED, or standard of care (ie, at the discretion of the treating physician). RESULTS Cost-effectiveness of TB screening among persons newly diagnosed with HIV was largely determined by 2 factors: prevalence of active TB among patients newly diagnosed with HIV and volume of testing. In facilities screening at least 50 people with a 6.5% prevalence of TB, or at least 500 people with a 2.5% TB prevalence, Xpert is likely to be cost-effective. At lower prevalence-including that observed in Malawi-LED microscopy may be the preferred strategy, whereas in settings of lower TB prevalence or small numbers of eligible patients, no screening may be reasonable (such that resources can be deployed elsewhere). CONCLUSIONS TB screening at the point of HIV diagnosis may be cost-effective in low-income countries of Sub-Saharan Africa, but only if a relatively large population with high prevalence of TB can be identified for screening.
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Choko AT, MacPherson P, Webb EL, Willey BA, Feasy H, Sambakunsi R, Mdolo A, Makombe SD, Desmond N, Hayes R, Maheswaran H, Corbett EL. Uptake, Accuracy, Safety, and Linkage into Care over Two Years of Promoting Annual Self-Testing for HIV in Blantyre, Malawi: A Community-Based Prospective Study. PLoS Med 2015; 12:e1001873. [PMID: 26348035 PMCID: PMC4562710 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1001873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Home-based HIV testing and counselling (HTC) achieves high uptake, but is difficult and expensive to implement and sustain. We investigated a novel alternative based on HIV self-testing (HIVST). The aim was to evaluate the uptake of testing, accuracy, linkage into care, and health outcomes when highly convenient and flexible but supported access to HIVST kits was provided to a well-defined and closely monitored population. METHODS AND FINDINGS Following enumeration of 14 neighbourhoods in urban Blantyre, Malawi, trained resident volunteer-counsellors offered oral HIVST kits (OraQuick ADVANCE Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test) to adult (≥16 y old) residents (n = 16,660) and reported community events, with all deaths investigated by verbal autopsy. Written and demonstrated instructions, pre- and post-test counselling, and facilitated HIV care assessment were provided, with a request to return kits and a self-completed questionnaire. Accuracy, residency, and a study-imposed requirement to limit HIVST to one test per year were monitored by home visits in a systematic quality assurance (QA) sample. Overall, 14,004 (crude uptake 83.8%, revised to 76.5% to account for population turnover) residents self-tested during months 1-12, with adolescents (16-19 y) most likely to test. 10,614/14,004 (75.8%) participants shared results with volunteer-counsellors. Of 1,257 (11.8%) HIV-positive participants, 26.0% were already on antiretroviral therapy, and 524 (linkage 56.3%) newly accessed care with a median CD4 count of 250 cells/μl (interquartile range 159-426). HIVST uptake in months 13-24 was more rapid (70.9% uptake by 6 mo), with fewer (7.3%, 95% CI 6.8%-7.8%) positive participants. Being "forced to test", usually by a main partner, was reported by 2.9% (95% CI 2.6%-3.2%) of 10,017 questionnaire respondents in months 1-12, but satisfaction with HIVST (94.4%) remained high. No HIVST-related partner violence or suicides were reported. HIVST and repeat HTC results agreed in 1,639/1,649 systematically selected (1 in 20) QA participants (99.4%), giving a sensitivity of 93.6% (95% CI 88.2%-97.0%) and a specificity of 99.9% (95% CI 99.6%-100%). Key limitations included use of aggregate data to report uptake of HIVST and being unable to adjust for population turnover. CONCLUSIONS Community-based HIVST achieved high coverage in two successive years and was safe, accurate, and acceptable. Proactive HIVST strategies, supported and monitored by communities, could substantially complement existing approaches to providing early HIV diagnosis and periodic repeat testing to adolescents and adults in high-HIV settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustine T. Choko
- Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- * E-mail:
| | - Peter MacPherson
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Emily L. Webb
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara A. Willey
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helena Feasy
- Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Rodrick Sambakunsi
- Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Aaron Mdolo
- Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Nicola Desmond
- Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Hayes
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hendramoorthy Maheswaran
- Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth L. Corbett
- Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Men's heightened risk of AIDS-related death: the legacy of gendered HIV testing and treatment strategies. AIDS 2015; 29:1123-5. [PMID: 26035315 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000000655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Parker LA, Jobanputra K, Rusike L, Mazibuko S, Okello V, Kerschberger B, Jouquet G, Cyr J, Teck R. Feasibility and effectiveness of two community-based HIV testing models in rural Swaziland. Trop Med Int Health 2015; 20:893-902. [PMID: 25753897 PMCID: PMC4672714 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To evaluate the feasibility (population reached, costs) and effectiveness (positivity rates, linkage to care) of two strategies of community-based HIV testing and counselling (HTC) in rural Swaziland. Methods Strategies used were mobile HTC (MHTC) and home-based HTC (HBHTC). Information on age, sex, previous testing and HIV results was obtained from routine HTC records. A consecutive series of individuals testing HIV-positive were followed up for 6 months from the test date to assess linkage to care. Results A total of 9 060 people were tested: 2 034 through MHTC and 7 026 through HBHTC. A higher proportion of children and adolescents (<20 years) were tested through HBHTC than MHTC (57% vs. 17%; P < 0.001). MHTC reached a higher proportion of adult men than HBHTC (42% vs. 39%; P = 0.015). Of 398 HIV-positive individuals, only 135 (34%) were enrolled in HIV care within 6 months. Of 42 individuals eligible for antiretroviral therapy, 22 (52%) started treatment within 6 months. Linkage to care was lowest among people who had tested previously and those aged 20–40 years. HBHTC was 50% cheaper (US$11 per person tested; $797 per individual enrolled in HIV care) than MHTC ($24 and $1698, respectively). Conclusion In this high HIV prevalence setting, a community-based testing programme achieved high uptake of testing and appears to be an effective and affordable way to encourage large numbers of people to learn their HIV status (particularly underserved populations such as men and young people). However, for community HTC to impact mortality and incidence, strategies need to be implemented to ensure people testing HIV-positive in the community are linked to HIV care. Objectifs Evaluer la faisabilité (population atteinte, coûts) et l'efficacité (taux de positivité, liaison aux soins) de deux stratégies de dépistage et conseil (DC) communautaire du VIH en zone rurale au Swaziland. Méthodes Les stratégies utilisées étaient des DC mobiles (DC-M) et le DC à domicile (DC-D). Les informations sur l’âge, le sexe, les tests précédents et les résultats VIH ont été obtenues à partir des dossiers de routine du DC. Une série d'individus séropositifs consécutifs a été suivie pendant six mois à partir de la date du test afin d’évaluer les liaisons aux soins. Résultats 9.060 personnes ont été testées: 2.034 par le biais du DC-M et 7026 par le biais du DC-D. Une plus grande proportion d'enfants et d'adolescents (<20 ans) ont été testés par le biais du DC-D que par celui du DC-M (57% vs 17%; p <0,001). Le DC-M a atteint une proportion plus élevée d'hommes adultes que le DC-D (42% vs 39%; p = 0,015). Des 398 personnes séropositives, seules 135 (34%) ont été inscrites à des soins VIH dans les 6 mois. De 42 personnes admissibles à la thérapie antirétrovirale, 22 (52%) ont commencé le traitement dans les 6 mois. Les liaisons avec les soins étaient plus faibles chez les personnes qui ont effectué un dépistage auparavant et celles âgées de 20 à 40 ans. Le DC-D était 50% moins cher (11 $ US par personne testée, 797 $ par personne inscrite dans les soins VIH) que le DC-M (24 $ et 1.698 $, respectivement). Conclusion Dans ce contexte à haute prévalence du VIH, un programme de dépistage communautaire a atteint une couverture élevée et semble être un moyen efficace et abordable pour encourager un grand nombre de personnes à connaître leur statut VIH (en particulier les populations mal desservies, telles que les hommes et les jeunes personnes). Cependant, afin que le DC communautaire ait un impact sur la mortalité et l'incidence, des stratégies doivent être mises en œuvre pour assurer que les personnes testées séropositives dans la communauté soient reliées aux soins du VIH. Objetivos Evaluar la viabilidad (población alcanzada, costes) y efectividad (tasas de positividad, vinculación al tratamiento) de dos estrategias comunitarias de asesoramiento y prueba para el VIH (APV) en zonas rurales de Suazilandia. Métodos Las estrategias utilizadas fueron la de APV en instalaciones clínicas móviles (APVM) y el APV realizado en el hogar (APVBH). Se obtuvo información sobre la edad, el sexo, la realización de pruebas anteriores y resultados de VIH de los informes rutinarios de APV. A una serie consecutiva de individuos que habían dado positivo en la prueba de VIH se les siguió durante 6 meses a partir del día de la prueba, con el fin de evaluar la conexión posterior a los cuidados y tratamiento adecuados. Resultados Se evaluaron 9,060 personas: 2,034 mediante APVM y 7,026 mediante APVBH. A una mayor proporción de niños y adolescentes (<20 años) se les realizó la prueba mediante APVBH que mediante APVM (57% vs. 17%; p<0.001). El APVM llegó a una mayor proporción de hombres adultos que el APVBH (42% vs. 39%; p=0.015). De 398 individuos VIH positivos, solo 135 (34%) estaban recibiendo atención y cuidados para el VIH después de 6 meses. De 42 individuos elegibles para Terapia Antirretroviral, 22 (52%) comenzaron el tratamiento dentro de los 6 meses siguientes a la prueba. La vinculación a los cuidados y atención para VIH posterior a la prueba era menor entre aquellos que habían dado previamente positivo y aquellos con edades entre 20-40 años. El APVBH era un 50% más barato (US$11 por persona a la que se le realizó la prueba, $797 por individuo recibiendo cuidados para VIH) que el APVM ($24 y $1698, respectivamente). Conclusión En este emplazamiento con una alta prevalencia de VIH, un programa de prueba para el VIH basado en la comunidad alcanzó un alto nivel de aceptación de la prueba, y parece ser una manera efectiva y económicamente asumible de animar a un gran número de personas a conocer su estatus de VIH (en particular población actualmente poco alcanzada como los hombres y personas jóvenes). Sin embargo, para que el APV comunitario tenga un impacto sobre la mortalidad y la incidencia, es necesario implementar estrategias apoyen el tratamiento, asegurando que las personas que dan positivo en la prueba son remitidas y reciben los cuidados adecuados.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Joanne Cyr
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Roger Teck
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Geneva, Switzerland
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Clouse K, Hanrahan CF, Bassett J, Fox MP, Sanne I, Van Rie A. Impact of systematic HIV testing on case finding and retention in care at a primary care clinic in South Africa. Trop Med Int Health 2014; 19:1411-9. [PMID: 25244155 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systematic, opt-out HIV counselling and testing (HCT) may diagnose individuals at lower levels of immunodeficiency but may impact loss to follow-up (LTFU) if healthier people are less motivated to engage and remain in HIV care. We explored LTFU and patient clinical outcomes under two different HIV testing strategies. METHODS We compared patient characteristics and retention in care between adults newly diagnosed with HIV by either voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) plus targeted provider-initiated counselling and testing (PITC) or systematic HCT at a primary care clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa. RESULTS One thousand one hundred and forty-four adults were newly diagnosed by VCT/PITC and 1124 by systematic HCT. Two-thirds of diagnoses were in women. Median CD4 count at HIV diagnosis (251 vs. 264 cells/μl, P = 0.19) and proportion of individuals eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) (67.2% vs. 66.7%, P = 0.80) did not differ by HCT strategy. Within 1 year of HIV diagnosis, half were LTFU: 50.5% under VCT/PITC and 49.6% under systematic HCT (P = 0.64). The overall hazard of LTFU was not affected by testing policy (aHR 0.98, 95%CI: 0.87-1.10). Independent of HCT strategy, males, younger adults and those ineligible for ART were at higher risk of LTFU. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of systematic HCT did not increase baseline CD4 count. Overall retention in the first year after HIV diagnosis was low (37.9%), especially among those ineligible for ART, but did not differ by testing strategy. Expansion of HIV testing should coincide with effective strategies to increase retention in care, especially among those not yet eligible for ART at initial diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Clouse
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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MacPherson P, Lalloo DG, Webb EL, Maheswaran H, Choko AT, Makombe SD, Butterworth AE, van Oosterhout JJ, Desmond N, Thindwa D, Squire SB, Hayes RJ, Corbett EL. Effect of optional home initiation of HIV care following HIV self-testing on antiretroviral therapy initiation among adults in Malawi: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA 2014; 312:372-9. [PMID: 25038356 PMCID: PMC4118051 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2014.6493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Self-testing for HIV infection may contribute to early diagnosis of HIV, but without necessarily increasing antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether offering optional home initiation of HIV care after HIV self-testing might increase demand for ART initiation, compared with HIV self-testing accompanied by facility-based services only. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Cluster randomized trial conducted in Blantyre, Malawi, between January 30 and November 5, 2012, using restricted 1:1 randomization of 14 community health worker catchment areas. Participants were all adult (≥16 years) residents (n = 16,660) who received access to home HIV self-testing through resident volunteers. This was a second-stage randomization of clusters allocated to the HIV self-testing group of a parent trial. INTERVENTIONS Clusters were randomly allocated to facility-based care or optional home initiation of HIV care (including 2 weeks of ART if eligible) for participants reporting positive HIV self-test results. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The preplanned primary outcome compared between groups the proportion of all adult residents who initiated ART within the first 6 months of HIV self-testing availability. Secondary outcomes were uptake of HIV self-testing, reporting of positive HIV self-test results, and rates of loss from ART at 6 months. RESULTS A significantly greater proportion of adults in the home group initiated ART (181/8194, 2.2%) compared with the facility group (63/8466, 0.7%; risk ratio [RR], 2.94, 95% CI, 2.10-4.12; P < .001). Uptake of HIV self-testing was high in both the home (5287/8194, 64.9%) and facility groups (4433/8466, 52.7%; RR, 1.23; 95% CI, 0.96-1.58; P = .10). Significantly more adults reported positive HIV self-test results in the home group (490/8194 [6.0%] vs the facility group, 278/8466 [3.3%]; RR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.16-2.97; P = .006). After 6 months, 52 of 181 ART initiators (28.7%) and 15 of 63 ART initiators (23.8%) in the home and facility groups, respectively, were lost from ART (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.62-2.25, P = .57). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Among Malawian adults offered HIV self-testing, optional home initiation of care compared with standard HIV care resulted in a significant increase in the proportion of adults initiating ART. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01414413.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter MacPherson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom2TB and HIV Group, Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - David G Lalloo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hendramoorthy Maheswaran
- TB and HIV Group, Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi4Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, United Kingdom
| | - Augustine T Choko
- TB and HIV Group, Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Anthony E Butterworth
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joep J van Oosterhout
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi8Dignitas International, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Nicola Desmond
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom2TB and HIV Group, Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Deus Thindwa
- TB and HIV Group, Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Stephen Bertel Squire
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J Hayes
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth L Corbett
- TB and HIV Group, Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi6Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Diagnostic accuracy of the WHO clinical staging system for defining eligibility for ART in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2014; 17:18932. [PMID: 24929097 PMCID: PMC4057784 DOI: 10.7448/ias.17.1.18932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 04/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that HIV-positive adults with CD4 count ≤500 cells/mm(3) initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART). In many countries of sub-Saharan Africa, CD4 count is not widely available or consistently used and instead the WHO clinical staging system is used to determine ART eligibility. However, concerns have been raised regarding its discriminatory ability to identify patients eligible to start ART. We therefore reviewed the accuracy of WHO stage 3 or 4 assessment in identifying ART eligibility according to CD4 count thresholds for ART initiation. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed and Global Health databases and conference abstracts using a comprehensive strategy for studies that compared the results of WHO clinical staging with CD4 count thresholds. Studies performed in sub-Saharan Africa and published in English between 1998 and 2013 were eligible for inclusion according to our predefined study protocol. Two authors independently extracted data and assessed methodological quality and risk of bias using the Quality Assessment Tool for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool. Summary estimates of sensitivity and specificity were derived for each CD4 count threshold and hierarchical summary receiver operator characteristic curves were plotted. RESULTS Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria, including 25,032 participants from 14 countries. Most studies assessed individuals attending ART clinics prior to treatment initiation. WHO clinical stage 3 or 4 disease had a sensitivity of 60% (95% CI: 45-73%, Q=914.26, p<0.001) and specificity of 73% (95% CI: 60-83%, Q=1439.43, p<0.001) for a CD4 threshold of ≤200 cells/mm(3) (11 studies); sensitivity and specificity for a threshold of CD4 count ≤350 cells/mm(3) were 45% (95% CI: 26-66%, Q=1607.31, p<0.001) and 85% (95% CI: 69-93%, Q=896.70, p<0.001), respectively (six studies). For the threshold of CD4 count ≤500 cells/mm(3) sensitivity was 14% (95% CI: 13-15%) and specificity was 95% (95% CI: 94-96%) (one study). CONCLUSIONS When used for individual treatment decisions, WHO clinical staging misses a high proportion of individuals who are ART eligible by CD4 count, with sensitivity falling as CD4 count criteria rises. Access to accurate, accessible, robust and affordable CD4 count testing methods will be a pressing need for as long as ART initiation decisions are based on criteria other than seropositivity.
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A novel community health worker tool outperforms WHO clinical staging for assessment of antiretroviral therapy eligibility in a resource-limited setting. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2014; 65:e74-8. [PMID: 23846567 PMCID: PMC3966510 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0b013e3182a20e74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The accuracy of a novel community health worker antiretroviral therapy eligibility assessment tool was examined in community members in Blantyre, Malawi. Nurses independently performed World Health Organization (WHO) staging and CD4 counts. One hundred ten (55.6%) of 198 HIV-positive participants had a CD4 count of <350 cells per cubic millimeter. The community health worker tool significantly outperformed WHO clinical staging in identifying CD4 count of <350 cells per cubic millimeter in terms of sensitivity (41% vs. 19%), positive predictive value (75% vs. 68%), negative predictive values (53% vs. 47%), and area under the receiver-operator curve (0.62 vs. 0.54; P = 0.017). Reliance on WHO staging is likely to result in missed and delayed antiretroviral therapy initiation.
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Govindasamy D, Kranzer K, van Schaik N, Noubary F, Wood R, Walensky RP, Freedberg KA, Bassett IV, Bekker LG. Linkage to HIV, TB and non-communicable disease care from a mobile testing unit in Cape Town, South Africa. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80017. [PMID: 24236170 PMCID: PMC3827432 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV counseling and testing may serve as an entry point for non-communicable disease screening. OBJECTIVES To determine the yield of newly-diagnosed HIV, tuberculosis (TB) symptoms, diabetes and hypertension, and to assess CD4 count testing, linkage to care as well as correlates of linkage and barriers to care from a mobile testing unit. METHODS A mobile unit provided screening for HIV, TB symptoms, diabetes and hypertension in Cape Town, South Africa between March 2010 and September 2011. The yield of newly-diagnosed cases of these conditions was measured and clients were followed-up between January and November 2011 to assess linkage. Linkage to care was defined as accessing care within one, three or six months post-HIV diagnosis (dependent on CD4 count) and one month post-diagnosis for other conditions. Clinical and socio-demographic correlates of linkage to care were evaluated using Poisson regression and barriers to care were determined. RESULTS Of 9,806 clients screened, the yield of new diagnoses was: HIV (5.5%), TB suspects (10.1%), diabetes (0.8%) and hypertension (58.1%). Linkage to care for HIV-infected clients, TB suspects, diabetics and hypertensives was: 51.3%, 56.7%, 74.1% and 50.0%. Only disclosure of HIV-positive status to family members or partners (RR=2.6, 95% CI: 1.04-6.3, p=0.04) was independently associated with linkage to HIV care. The main barrier to care reported by all groups was lack of time to access a clinic. CONCLUSION Screening for HIV, TB symptoms and hypertension at mobile units in South Africa has a high yield but inadequate linkage. After-hours and weekend clinics may overcome a major barrier to accessing care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darshini Govindasamy
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nienke van Schaik
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Farzad Noubary
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- The Institute for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Robin Wood
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rochelle P. Walensky
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Divisions of General Medicine and Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Disease, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Kenneth A. Freedberg
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Divisions of General Medicine and Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ingrid V. Bassett
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Divisions of General Medicine and Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Scheibe FJB, Waiswa P, Kadobera D, Müller O, Ekström AM, Sarker M, Neuhann HWF. Effective coverage for antiretroviral therapy in a Ugandan district with a decentralized model of care. PLoS One 2013; 8:e69433. [PMID: 23936015 PMCID: PMC3720624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0069433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction While increasing access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is reported from many African countries, data on effective coverage particular from settings without external support or research remains scarce. We examined and report effective coverage data from a public ART program in rural Uganda. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study at all ART-providing governmental health facilities in Iganga District, Eastern Uganda. Based on all HIV patients registered between April 2004 and September 2009 (n = 4775), we assessed indicators of program performance and determined rates of retention and Cox proportional hazards for attrition. Effective ART coverage was calculated using projections (SPECTRUM software) adapted to the district demographic structure and number of people receiving ART. Results By September 2009, district public sector effective ART coverage was 10.3% for adults and 1.9% for children. After a median follow-up of 26.9 months, overall ART retention was 54.7%. The probability of retention was 0.72 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69–0.75) at 12 and 0.58 (CI 0.54–0.62) at 36 months after ART initiation. Individual health facilities differed considerably regarding performance indicators and retention. Overall, 198 (16.9%) individual files of 1171 registered ART patients were lost. Young adult age (15–24 years) had a higher risk of attrition (HR 2.1, CI 1.4–3.2) as well as WHO stage I (HR 4.8, CI 1.9–11.8) and WHO stage IV (HR 2.5, CI 1.3–4.7). An interval ≥6 weeks between HIV testing and ART initiation was associated with a reduced risk (HR 0.6, CI 0.47–0.78). Conclusion Compared to reported national data effective ART coverage in Iganga District was low. Intensified efforts to improve access, retention in care, and quality of documentation are urgently needed. Children and young adults require special attention in the program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian J. B. Scheibe
- Institute of Public Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology/Pulmonology, Ortenau Klinikum, Offenburg, Germany
| | - Peter Waiswa
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Division of Global Health, IHCAR, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Iganga/Mayuge Health and Demographic Surveillance Site, Iganga, Uganda
| | - Daniel Kadobera
- Iganga/Mayuge Health and Demographic Surveillance Site, Iganga, Uganda
| | - Olaf Müller
- Institute of Public Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna M. Ekström
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Malabika Sarker
- Institute of Public Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- James P. Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Sloan DJ, van Oosterhout JJ, Malisita K, Phiri EM, Lalloo DG, O'Hare B, MacPherson P. Evidence of improving antiretroviral therapy treatment delays: an analysis of eight years of programmatic outcomes in Blantyre, Malawi. BMC Public Health 2013; 13:490. [PMID: 23687946 PMCID: PMC3664085 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-13-490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Impressive achievements have been made towards achieving universal coverage of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the effects of rapid ART scale-up on delays between HIV diagnosis and treatment initiation have not been well described. Methods A retrospective cohort study covering eight years of ART initiators (2004–2011) was conducted at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) in Blantyre, Malawi. The time between most recent positive HIV test and ART initiation was calculated and temporal trends in delay to initiation were described. Factors associated with time to initiation were investigated using multivariate regression analysis. Results From 2004–2011, there were 15,949 ART initiations at QECH (56% female; 8% children [0–10 years] and 5% adolescents [10–20 years]). Male initiators were likely to have more advanced HIV infection at initiation than female initiators (70% vs. 64% in WHO stage 3 or 4). Over the eight years studied, there were declines in treatment delay, with 2011 having the shortest delay at 36.5 days. On multivariate analysis CD4 count <50 cells/μl (adjusted geometric mean ratio [aGMR]: aGMR: 0.53, bias-corrected accelerated [BCA] 95% CI: 0.42-0.68) was associated with shorter ART treatment delay. Women (aGMR: 1.12, BCA 95% CI: 1.03-1.22) and patients diagnosed with HIV at another facility outside QECH (aGMR: 1.61, BCA 95% CI: 1.47-1.77) had significantly longer treatment delay. Conclusions Continued improvements in treatment delays provide evidence that universal access to ART can be achieved using the public health approach adopted by Malawi However, the longer delays for women and patients diagnosed at outlying sites emphasises the need for targeted interventions to support equitable access for these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek J Sloan
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust and Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Chichiri 3, PO 30096, Blantyre, Malawi
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Barriers and facilitators to linkage to ART in primary care: a qualitative study of patients and providers in Blantyre, Malawi. J Int AIDS Soc 2012; 15:18020. [PMID: 23336700 PMCID: PMC3535694 DOI: 10.7448/ias.15.2.18020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2012] [Revised: 11/02/2012] [Accepted: 12/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Linkage from HIV testing and counselling (HTC) to initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is suboptimal in many national programmes in sub-Saharan Africa, leading to delayed initiation of ART and increased risk of death. Reasons for failure of linkage are poorly understood. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews were undertaken with health providers and HIV-positive primary care patients as part of a prospective cohort study at primary health centres in Blantyre, Malawi. Patients successful and unsuccessful in linking to ART were included. Results Progression through the HIV care pathway was strongly influenced by socio-cultural norms, particularly around the perceived need to regain respect lost during a period of visibly declining health. Capacity to call upon the support of networks of families, friends and employers was a key determinant of successful progression. Over-busy clinics, non-functioning laboratories and unsuitable tools used for ART eligibility assessment (WHO clinical staging system and centralized CD4 count measurement) were important health systems determinants of drop-out. Conclusions Key interventions that could rapidly improve linkage include guarantee of same-day, same-clinic ART eligibility assessments; utilization of the support offered by peer-groups and community health workers; and integration of HTC and ART programmes.
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