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Belachew TW, Erega BB, Ewunetu M, Gelaye K, Yimer TS, Ferede WY. Level of option B plus drug adherence for preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV and associated factors among HIV-positive women in the awi zone, amhara region, northwest Ethiopia,2020. Heliyon 2024; 10:e35319. [PMID: 39161839 PMCID: PMC11332886 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e35319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adherence to Option B+ antiretroviral medication (ART) is essential for the successful implementation of the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program. However, poor adherence to Option B + PMTCT drugs among women results in increased viral load and mother-to-child transmission and reduces immunological and clinical outcomes. Objective The objective of the study was to assess the level of Option B plus drug adherence for preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV and associated factors among HIV positive women in selected government health facilities of Awi zone, Amhara region, Northwest Ethiopia,2020. Methods This institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1 to April 30 among 358 HIV-positive women (pregnant and lactating mothers). A multistage sampling procedure was used to select the study participants. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire through interviews. The collected data were entered into EPI Data 3.1 statistical software for data management and analyzed using SPSS version 25 statistical package. The associations between variables were analyzed using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models. A p-value ≤0.05 at the 95 % confidence interval was considered statistically significant. Results Out of the 358 participants, adherence to Option B + PMTCT was 83.24 %. The study revealed that counselling [AOR = 4.4, 95 % CI: 1.60-12.29], partner support involvement [AOR = 3.0, 95 % CI: 1.17-7.92], and time taken to reach from home to the facility [AOR = 3.1, 95 % CI: 1.51-6.52] were significantly associated with the level of adherence to Option B + PMTCT. Conclusion This study showed that the level of Option B + PMTCT drug adherence was lower than the nationally recommended adherence level. Good counselling, partner support, and reduced travel time from home to the facility were associated with adherence to Option B + PMTCT drugs. Therefore, counselling is crucial for increasing adherence to Option B + PMTCT drugs. Accessible health facilities reduce travel burdens, encourage regular clinic visits, and enhance adherence to PMTCT drugs. Partners can provide reminders, attend appointments, offer emotional support, and explore alternatives such as mobile clinics or medication delivery services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tegegne Wale Belachew
- Department of Midwifery College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia
| | - Besfat Berihun Erega
- Department of Midwifery College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia
| | - Mesafint Ewunetu
- Department of Midwifery College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia
| | - Kihinetu Gelaye
- Department of Midwifery College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia
| | - Tigist Seid Yimer
- Department of Midwifery College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia
| | - Wassie Yazie Ferede
- Department of Midwifery College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia
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Young CM, Chang CA, Sagay AS, Imade G, Ogunsola OO, Okonkwo P, Kanki PJ. Antiretroviral therapy retention, adherence, and clinical outcomes among postpartum women with HIV in Nigeria. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302920. [PMID: 39110750 PMCID: PMC11305526 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
While research involving pregnant women with HIV has largely focused on the antepartum and intrapartum periods, few studies in Nigeria have examined the clinical outcomes of these women postpartum. This study aimed to evaluate antiretroviral therapy retention, adherence, and viral suppression among postpartum women in Nigeria. This retrospective clinical data analysis included women with a delivery record at the antenatal HIV clinic at Jos University Teaching Hospital between 2013 and 2017. Descriptive statistics quantified proportions retained, adherent (≥95% medication possession ratio), and virally suppressed up to 24 months postpartum. Among 1535 included women, 1497 met the triple antiretroviral therapy eligibility criteria. At 24 months, 1342 (89.6%) women remained in care, 51 (3.4%) reported transferring, and 104 (7.0%) were lost to follow-up. The proportion of patients with ≥95% medication possession ratio decreased from 79.0% to 69.1% over the 24 months. Viral suppression among those with results was 88.7% at 24 months, but <62% of those retained had viral load results at each time point. In multiple logistic regression, predictors of loss to follow-up included having a more recent HIV diagnosis, higher gravidity, fewer antenatal care visits, and a non-hospital delivery. Predictors of viral non-suppression included poorer adherence, unsuppressed/missing baseline viral load, lower baseline CD4+ T-cell count, and higher gravidity. Loss to follow-up rates were lower and antiretroviral therapy adherence rates similar among postpartum women at our study hospital compared with other sub-Saharan countries. Longer follow-up time and inclusion of multiple facilities for a nationally representative sample would be beneficial in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara M. Young
- College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Charlotte A. Chang
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Atiene S. Sagay
- Jos University Teaching Hospital, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Godwin Imade
- Jos University Teaching Hospital, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Phyllis J. Kanki
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Hampanda K, Grubbs H, Castillo-Mancilla J, Anderson PL, Thorne J, Helova A, Turan JM, Onono M, Abuogi LL. Antiretroviral therapy adherence among peripartum women with HIV in Kenya: an explanatory mixed methods study using dry blood spot measures and narrative interviews. AIDS Care 2024:1-12. [PMID: 39106970 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2383885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACTAdherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains sub-optimal among pregnant and postpartum women with HIV (PPWH) in high HIV prevalence low resource settings with few effective behavioral interventions. A large body of qualitative literature has established general barriers and facilitators to ART adherence in PPWH at various levels (individual, interpersonal, structural). However, research exploring the underlying behavioral mechanisms of ART adherence in PPWH with objectively verified adherence biomarkers is extremely limited. We conducted 24 in-depth interviews with postpartum women in western Kenya who had linked ART drug concentrations obtained from three dried blood spot samples across the peripartum period. Among PPWH with a low drug concentration (n = 13) compared to those with continuously high drug concentrations (n = 11), distinct themes emerged related to HIV status disclosure, social support, interactions with the health system, and health beliefs. By combining ART biomarkers with patient reported challenges, there is the potential for real-time interventions to support sustained ART adherence among PPWH and improve maternal and infant health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Hampanda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Center for Global Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - H Grubbs
- Department of Surgery, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - J Castillo-Mancilla
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - P L Anderson
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - J Thorne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Center for Global Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - A Helova
- Department of Health Policy and Organization, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Sparkman Center for Global Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - J M Turan
- Department of Health Policy and Organization, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Sparkman Center for Global Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - M Onono
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - L L Abuogi
- Center for Global Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
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Campbell LS, Knight L, Masquillier C, Wouters E. Including the Household: Individual, Community and Household Factors Affecting Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence After ART Initiation in Cape Town, South Africa. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04447-3. [PMID: 39090458 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04447-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is crucial for health outcomes of people living with HIV (PLHIV), influenced by a complex interplay of individual, community, and household factors. This article focuses on the influence of household factors, as well as individual and community factors, on ART adherence among PLHIV in Cape Town who have recently initiated ART. Baseline data for a cluster-randomized controlled trial were collected from 316 PLHIV in 12 districts in Cape Town between 6th May 2021 and 22nd May 2022. Zero-inflated Poisson models, with cluster-adjusted standard errors, were used to analyse the association between individual, household, and community factors and ART adherence measures. At the household-level, household support was associated with both better self-rated adherence (exp(β) = 0.81, z = - 4.68, p < 0.001) and fewer days when pills were missed (exp(β) = 0.65, z = - 2.92, p = 0.003). Psychological violence (exp(β) = 1.37, z = 1.97, p = 0.05) and higher household asset scores (exp(β) = 1.29, z = - 2.83, p = 0.05) were weakly associated with poorer ART adherence. At the individual-level, male gender (exp(β) = 1.37, z = 3.95, p < 0.001) and reinitiating ART (exp(β) = 1.35, z = 3.64, p < 0.001) were associated with worse self-rated ART adherence; higher education levels (exp(β) = 0.30 times, z = - 3.75, p < 0.001) and better HIV knowledge (exp(β) = 0.28, z = - 2.83, p = 0.005) were associated with fewer days where pills were missed. At the community-level, community stigma was associated with worse self-rated ART adherence (exp(β) = 1.24, z = 3.01, p = 0.003). When designing interventions to improve ART adherence, household, individual and community factors should all be considered, particularly in addressing gender-based disparities, reducing stigma, tackling violence, and enhancing household support.Clinical Trial Number: Pan African Clinical Trial Registry, PACTR201906476052236. Registered on 24 June 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Campbell
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Lucia Knight
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health, Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Caroline Masquillier
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
- Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Edwin Wouters
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
- Centre for Health Systems Research & Development, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Cooper R, Greig J, Piercy H, Collini P. Investigating the Pregnancy and Post-Partum Health Experiences of Women Living with HIV. Matern Child Health J 2024; 28:1330-1337. [PMID: 38904904 PMCID: PMC11269466 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-024-03962-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pregnancy and the postpartum period is a difficult time for women living with HIV (WLWH) and postpartum engagement with HIV care is often reduced, with implications for health and well-being. We aimed to explore the postpartum health experiences of WLWH in relation to engagement in HIV care. METHODS The NESTOR (iNvESTigating the pregnancy and pOst-paRtum health experience of women living with HIV) study was a UK based qualitative semi-structured interview study. 61 eligible women were identified. We used a purposive sampling technique to recruit women with differing levels of engagement in HIV care. Interviews were conducted via telephone or video call. Interviews were audio recorded and fully transcribed. We used a thematic approach for data analysis, and two researchers independently coded the data and established the key themes. RESULTS 11 of 61 (18%) eligible women participated in the interviews, and the three main themes were 'infant feeding decisions', 'managing the risk of mother to child transmission', and 'managing the knowledge of their HIV status'. These themes offer detailed insights into the significant psychological and emotional challenges these women had experienced, and the practical support from healthcare professionals in both HIV and maternity services that had enabled them to navigate those challenges. DISCUSSION There have been life-changing developments in the treatment and care for people living with HIV. However, even in the U = U (undetectable = untransmittable) era, traditional concerns about breastfeeding, risk of transmission to the infant and stigma continue to shape the postpartum experience of WLWH. As these impact on their emotional and psychological wellbeing, support in these areas needs to be prioritised.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Greig
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England
| | | | - Paul Collini
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England
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Li D, Ma S, Dang B, Shi H, Wei Y, Wang X. Effectiveness of telemedicine for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 143:106981. [PMID: 38458425 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to estimate the effectiveness of telemedicine for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) program of HIV in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). METHODS We did a systematic literature search of 15 databases for articles published from database inception to October 26, 2022, and performed meta-analyses to estimate the pooled risk ratio of intervention effect (RR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI). We used subgroup analyses and meta-regressions to explore variation in the RRs. Funnel plots and Egger regression tests were also performed to assess publication bias. RESULTS Seventeen studies were included in the systematic review, with a total sample size of 9118 participants. We found that telemedicine was beneficial for early infant diagnosis (EID) in the sixth week (RR 1.04 [95% CI 1.00-1.09]), exclusive breastfeeding (RR 1.12 [95% CI 1.01-1.24]) and PMTCT retention (RR 1.34 [95% CI 1.16-1.55]). However, we did not find a significant effect of telemedicine on infant prophylaxis, HIV transmission, and ART adherence. Besides, the heterogeneity of ART adherence was associated with enrollment time, while retention was related to ART initiation. CONCLUSIONS Our meta-analysis demonstrated the benefits of telemedicine in improving PMTCT, especially for EID, exclusive breastfeeding, and PMTCT retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dantong Li
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Shang Ma
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Binfei Dang
- Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Huifeng Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Centre for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing, China; National Centre for Healthcare Quality Management in Obstetrics, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Centre for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing, China; National Centre for Healthcare Quality Management in Obstetrics, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China.
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Linnemayr S, Odiit M, Mukasa B, Ghai I, Stecher C. INcentives and ReMINDers to Improve Long-Term Medication Adherence (INMIND): impact of a pilot randomized controlled trial in a large HIV clinic in Uganda. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26306. [PMID: 38923298 PMCID: PMC11197960 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Habits are a common strategy for successfully countering medication non-adherence, yet existing interventions do not support participants during the long habit formation period, resulting in high attrition. We test a novel intervention combining text messages and incentives with anchoring to support antiretroviral therapy (ART) pill-taking habits. METHODS In a randomized, parallel controlled trial, a sample of 155 participants 18 years and older who initiated ART within 3 months were recruited at Mildmay Uganda between October 2021 and April 2022. All participants were educated on the anchoring strategy and chose an anchor, that is existing routines, to pair with pill-taking. Participants were randomized to either usual care (C = 49), daily text message reminders to follow their anchoring plan (Messages group; T1 = 49) or messages and incentives conditional on pill-taking in line with their anchor (Incentives group; T2 = 57). Assessments occurred at baseline, month 3 (end of intervention) and month 9 (end of observation period). The primary outcomes are electronically measured mean adherence and pill-taking consistent with participants' anchor time. RESULTS The primary outcome of pill-taking in line with the anchoring plan was higher in the Incentives group during the 3-month intervention (12.2 p.p. [95% CI: 2.2 22.2; p = .02]), and remained significantly higher after the incentives were withdrawn (months 4-6 (14.2 p.p. [95% CI 1.1 27.2; p = .03]); months 7-9 (14.1 p.p. [95% CI -0.2 28.5; p = .05])). Mean adherence was higher in both treatment groups relative to the control group during the intervention (T1 vs. C, p = .06; T2 vs. C, p = .06) but not post-intervention. CONCLUSIONS The promising approach of using incentives to support habit formation among ART treatment initiators needs to be evaluated in a fully powered study to further our understanding of the habit formation process and to evaluate its cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Chad Stecher
- College of Health SolutionsArizona State UniversityPhoenixArizonaUSA
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Zanré N, Carvalho S, Elwood C, Côté HCF, Kakkar F, Boucher M, Money D, Boucoiran I. Factors associated with HIV viral load control in the early postpartum period - a Canadian prospective cohort study. AIDS Care 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38500011 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2325082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Despite success in managing HIV during pregnancy, challenges remain around sustained adherence with antiretroviral therapy (ART), and the suboptimal viral load (VL) suppression during the postpartum period. The objective of this study was to compare VL levels at delivery and during the postpartum period and assess factors associated with lack of viral suppression during the postpartum period in Canada. We combined data from two Canadian prospective cohorts, which included 286 HIV-positive women (352 pregnancies) who delivered between 2012 and 2020. Delivery VL, postpartum VL, and potential factors associated with an undetectable VL (<50 copies/mL), 2-18 weeks after delivery were assessed. To account for the correlation between multiple pregnancies from the same woman, generalized estimating equations were used to assess bivariate associations. Ninety-nine per cent of pregnant women were on ART during pregnancy compared to 93% during the postpartum period. Of those with available VL results (n = 214 pregnancies), 94% of women achieved an undetectable VL at delivery compared to 87% during the postpartum period. The postpartum period is a challenging time for ART use and VL control. Qualitative studies are needed to better understand these challenges and guide us in designing adequate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadège Zanré
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sabrina Carvalho
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Mother and Children Infectious Disease Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Chelsea Elwood
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Women's Health Research Institute, BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hélène C F Côté
- Women's Health Research Institute, BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Fatima Kakkar
- Mother and Children Infectious Disease Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marc Boucher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Mother and Children Infectious Disease Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Deborah Money
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Women's Health Research Institute, BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boucoiran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Mother and Children Infectious Disease Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Twimukye A, Alhassan Y, Ringwald B, Malaba T, Myer L, Waitt C, Lamorde M, Reynolds H, Khoo S, Taegtmeyer M. Support, not blame: safe partner disclosure among women diagnosed with HIV late in pregnancy in South Africa and Uganda. AIDS Res Ther 2024; 21:14. [PMID: 38481233 PMCID: PMC10938717 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-024-00600-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV partner disclosure rates remain low among pregnant women living with HIV in many African countries despite potential benefits for women and their families. Partner disclosure can trigger negative responses like blame, violence, and separation. Women diagnosed with HIV late in pregnancy have limited time to prepare for partner disclosure. We sought to understand challenges around partner disclosure and non-disclosure faced by women diagnosed with HIV late in pregnancy in South Africa and Uganda and to explore pathways to safe partner disclosure. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with pregnant women and lactating mothers living with HIV (n = 109), disaggregated by antenatal care (ANC) initiation before and after 20 weeks of gestation, male partners (n = 87), and health workers (n = 53). All participants were recruited from DolPHIN2 trial sites in Kampala (Uganda) and Gugulethu (South Africa). Topic guides explored barriers to partner disclosure, effects of non-disclosure, strategies for safe disclosure. Using the framework analysis approach, we coded and summarised data based on a socio-ecological model, topic guides, and emerging issues from the data. Data was analysed in NVivo software. RESULTS Our findings illustrate pregnant women who initiate ANC late experience many difficulties which are compounded by the late HIV diagnosis. Various individual, interpersonal, community, and health system factors complicate partner disclosure among these women. They postpone or decide against partner disclosure mainly for own and baby's safety. Women experience stress and poor mental health because of non-disclosure while demonstrating agency and resilience. We found many similarities and some differences around preferred approaches to safe partner disclosure among female and male participants across countries. Women and male partners preferred healthcare workers to assist with disclosure by identifying the 'right' time to disclose, mentoring women to enhance their confidence and communication skills, and providing professional mediation for partner disclosure and couple testing. Increasing the number of counsellors and training them on safe partner disclosure was deemed necessary for strengthening local health services to improve safe partner disclosure. CONCLUSION HIV diagnosis late in pregnancy amplifies existing difficulties among pregnant women. Late ANC initiation is an indicator for the likelihood that a pregnant woman is highly vulnerable and needs safeguarding. Respective health programmes should be prepared to offer women initiating ANC late in pregnancy additional support and referral to complementary programmes to achieve safe partner disclosure and good health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelline Twimukye
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yussif Alhassan
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
| | - Beate Ringwald
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Thokozile Malaba
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Catriona Waitt
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mohammed Lamorde
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Helen Reynolds
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Saye Khoo
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Tropical Infectious Disease Unit, Liverpool University Hospital Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Miriam Taegtmeyer
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
- Tropical Infectious Disease Unit, Liverpool University Hospital Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
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Verinumbe T, Katomski AS, Turpin G, Syarif O, Looze P, Lalak K, Anoubissi J, Brion S, Dunaway K, Sprague L, Matyushina D, De Leon Moreno CG, Baral SD, Rucinski K, Lyons C. Characterizing the Relationship between HIV Peer Support Groups and Internalized Stigma Among People Living with HIV in Nigeria. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1068-1076. [PMID: 37889362 PMCID: PMC11234473 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04217-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
HIV-related stigma remains a significant barrier to implementing effective HIV treatment and prevention strategies in Nigeria. Despite the high uptake of peer support groups among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Nigeria, the potential role of such peer support on the burden of internalized stigma remains understudied. To address this gap, we conducted a secondary analysis of the PLHIV Stigma Index 2.0, a socio-behavioral survey implemented by PLHIV led-organizations to assess the relationship between group membership and internalized stigma. Internalized stigma was measured using the Internalized AIDS-related Stigma Scale. Multinomial logistic regression was used to measure the association between self-reported engagement in peer support groups and internalized stigma adjusting for age, education, duration since HIV diagnosis, employment, disclosure status, and sex-work engagement. Of the 1,244 respondents in this study, 75.1% were engaged in HIV peer support groups. Over half (55.5%) and about one-fourth (27.3%) demonstrated low/moderate and high levels of internalized stigma, respectively. PLHIV engaged in HIV peer support groups were less likely to report both low/moderate (versus no) (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.47 [95% CI: 0.27 to 0.81]; p = 0.006) and high (versus no) (aOR: 0.30 [95% CI: 0.17 to 0.53]; p < 0.001) levels of internalized stigma compared to those not engaged. In this study, the burden of internalized stigma is high among PLHIV in Nigeria. However, engagement in peer support groups appears to mitigate these stigmas. Stigma mitigation strategies to increase peer support may represent a critical tool in decreasing sustained HIV treatment gaps among PLHIV in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarfa Verinumbe
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1717 East Monument St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Anna-Sophia Katomski
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Gnilane Turpin
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Omar Syarif
- Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pim Looze
- Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katarzyna Lalak
- Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jean Anoubissi
- Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie Brion
- The International Community of Women Living with HIV (ICW), London, UK
| | - Keren Dunaway
- The International Community of Women Living with HIV (ICW), London, UK
| | - Laurel Sprague
- The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Daria Matyushina
- The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Katherine Rucinski
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Carrie Lyons
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Nutor JJ, Okiring J, Yeboah I, Thompson RGA, Agbadi P, Ameyaw EK, Getahun M, Agbadi W, Hoffmann TJ, Weiser SD. Association between water insecurity and antiretroviral therapy adherence among pregnant and postpartum women in Greater Accra region of Ghana. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002747. [PMID: 38190403 PMCID: PMC10773961 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) can substantially reduce morbidity and mortality among women living with HIV (WLWH) and prevent vertical transmission of HIV. However, in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), more than 50% of new mothers discontinue ART and HIV care after childbirth. The role of water insecurity (WI) in ART adherence is not well-explored. We examined the relationship between WI and ART adherence among pregnant and postpartum WLWH in Greater Accra region of Ghana. METHODS Using a cross-sectional survey, we recruited 176 pregnant and postpartum WLWH on ART across 11 health facilities. We examined the association between WI (measured using the Household Water Insecurity Experience Scale, and categorized as moderate and severe WI compard to low WI) and poor ART adherence (defined as scoring a below average observed CASE index score). Bivariate analysis was performed using chi-square test followed by multivariate logistic regression models. We included all variables with p-values less than 0.20 in the multivariate analysis. RESULTS Most (79.5%) of the pregnant and postpartum WLWH enrolled on ART, were urban residents. Over 2/3 were aged 30 years and older. Overall, 33.5% of respondents had poor ART adherence. Proportion of poor ART adherence was 19.4% among those with low WI, 44.4% in those with moderate WI, and 40.0% among those with high WI. Respondents with moderate household water insecurity had a greater odds of reporting poor ART adherence, as compared to those with low water insecurity (adjusted Odds ratio (aOR) = 2.76, 95%CI: 1.14-6.66, p = 0.024), even after adjusting for food insecurity. Similarly, respondents with high WI had a greater odds of reporting poor ART adherence, as compared to those with low water insecurity (aOR = 1.49, 95%CI: 0.50-4.48, p = 0.479), even after adjusting for food insecurity. CONCLUSION Water insecurity is prevalent among pregnant and postpartum WLWH and is a significant risk factor for poor ART adherence. Governments and other stakeholders working in HIV care provision should prioritize water security programming for WLWH along the HIV care continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry John Nutor
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Jaffer Okiring
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Yeboah
- Institute of Work Employment and Society, University of Professional Studies, Accra, Ghana
| | - Rachel G. A. Thompson
- Language Center, College of Humanities, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Accra, Ghana
| | - Pascal Agbadi
- Department of Sociology and Social Science Policy, Lingnan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Edward Kwabena Ameyaw
- Institute of Policy Studies and School of Graduate Studies, Lingnan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Monica Getahun
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Wisdom Agbadi
- Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Accra, Ghana
- Push Aid Africa, Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas J. Hoffmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and Office of Research, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Sheri D. Weiser
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco California, United States of America
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12
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Sakyi KS, Hurley EA, Kanyangarara M, Owusu PG, Sowah LA, Lartey M, Jackson F, Sacks E. Over forty percent of women living with HIV report interruption in antiretroviral therapy during intrapartum and early postpartum inpatient stay: findings from five hospitals in Ghana. AIDS Care 2024; 36:139-145. [PMID: 37723120 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2254546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence during and after pregnancy is essential to reduce perinatal transmission of HIV. However, little is known about adherence during the intrapartum and early postpartum inpatient hospital stay. Using secondary data from a hospital-based cohort study focused on the relationship between birthweight and engagement in HIV care, we examined the magnitude of, reasons for, and factors associated with incomplete intrapartum and early postpartum ART adherence among adult women (18 years or older) living with HIV who delivered within the previous two weeks at one of five hospitals in Accra, Ghana. Of the 142 enrolled participants who had complete adherence data and reported being on ART at the time of hospital admission, 43% (61/142) reported missing at least one ART dose during labor, delivery, and postpartum, including almost 20% (28/142) missing 2 or more consecutive doses. Women who reported frequently missing ART doses during pregnancy had higher odds of reporting missed doses during their intrapartum and postpartum hospital stays. Among those with inpatient ART interruption, the most frequently cited reasons were: forgetting medication at home (42%) and challenges of being in or recovering from labor (29%). Maternal perception of infant health at birth, hospital level of care, and frequency of missing HIV medications during pregnancy were associated with incomplete ART adherence during the intrapartum and early postpartum inpatient stay. An enabling clinical environment to facilitate access to ART during inpatient stays may have positive implications for ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwame S Sakyi
- School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA
- Center for Learning and Childhood Development, Accra, Ghana
| | - Emily A Hurley
- Center for Learning and Childhood Development, Accra, Ghana
- Division of Health Services and Outcomes Research, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Mufaro Kanyangarara
- Center for Learning and Childhood Development, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Prince G Owusu
- Center for Learning and Childhood Development, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | | | - Margaret Lartey
- Department of Medicine, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Emma Sacks
- Center for Learning and Childhood Development, Accra, Ghana
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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13
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Nawfal ES, Gray A, Sheehan DM, Ibañez GE, Trepka MJ. A Systematic Review of the Impact of HIV-Related Stigma and Serostatus Disclosure on Retention in Care and Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Women with HIV in the United States/Canada. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2024; 38:23-49. [PMID: 38150524 PMCID: PMC10794841 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review explores the roles of HIV stigma and disclosure of HIV serostatus in antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and retention in care (RIC) among women with HIV (WHIV) in the United States and Canada. We conducted a systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Google scholar) to identify peer-reviewed articles published between January 1996 and December 2022. The search yielded 1120 articles after duplicates were removed. Of these, 27 articles met the inclusion criteria. The majority (89%) of the studies were conducted in the United States. The studies included WHIV from diverse racial/ethnic groups, residing in both urban and rural areas. Most of the studies suggested that internalized stigma, perceived community stigma, and fear of disclosure were important barriers to ART adherence and RIC among WHIV. HIV-related stigma experienced within the health care setting was also reported as a factor impacting health care utilization. A few studies identified mental health distress as a potential mechanism accounting for the association and suggested that social support and resilience may buffer the negative effects of stigma and disclosure on ART adherence and RIC among WHIV. Our review indicates that stigma and concerns about disclosure continue to significantly affect HIV health outcomes for WHIV in high-income countries. It underscores the importance of integrated HIV care services and interventions targeting mental health, resilience building, and improved patient-provider relationships for WHIV to enhance ART adherence and RIC. Longitudinal studies and investigations into additional mechanisms are needed to advance understanding and inform women-centered interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekpereka Sandra Nawfal
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Aaliyah Gray
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Diana M. Sheehan
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
- Research Center for Minority Institutions, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Gladys E. Ibañez
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mary Jo Trepka
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
- Research Center for Minority Institutions, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
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Pellowski JA, Jensen D, Tsawe N, Colvin C, Cu-Uvin S, Operario D, Lurie M, Harrison A, Myer L, Knight L. Womandla Health: development and rationale of a behavioral intervention to support HIV treatment adherence among postpartum women in South Africa. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:649. [PMID: 38057777 PMCID: PMC10701937 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02817-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While Option B + has made great strides in eliminating vertical transmission of HIV and improving access to lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) for women, the postpartum period remains a risk period for disengagement from HIV care and non-adherence. METHODS Longitudinal qualitative data was collected from 30 women living with HIV in Cape Town, South Africa from pregnancy through 1 year postpartum to examine key barriers and facilitators to HIV treatment adherence across this transition. Participants were also asked about their preferences for behavioral intervention content, format, and scope. The intervention development process was guided by Fernandez et al.'s Intervention Mapping process and was informed by the qualitative data, the wider literature on ART adherence, and Transition Theory. RESULTS The Womandla Health Intervention is a multicomponent intervention consisting of four individual sessions with a lay health worker and four peer group sessions, which span late pregnancy and early postpartum. These sessions are guided by Transition Theory and utilize motivational interviewing techniques to empower women to ascertain their own individual barriers to HIV care and identify solutions and strategies to overcome these barriers. CONCLUSIONS This intervention will be tested in a small scale RCT. If successful, findings will provide an innovative approach to HIV treatment by capitalizing on the transition into motherhood to bolster self-care behaviors, focusing on ART adherence and also women's overall postpartum health and psychosocial needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Pellowski
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, USA.
- School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Destry Jensen
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Nokwazi Tsawe
- School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christopher Colvin
- School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Susan Cu-Uvin
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence,, USA
| | - Don Operario
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mark Lurie
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Landon Myer
- School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucia Knight
- School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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15
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Brittain K, Brown K, Phillips T, Zerbe A, Pellowski J, Remien RH, Mellins CA, Abrams EJ, Myer L. Why do Integrated Maternal HIV and Infant Healthcare Services work? A Secondary Analysis of a Randomised Controlled Trial in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3831-3843. [PMID: 37306847 PMCID: PMC10598190 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04097-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In a randomised trial, we found that integrated maternal HIV and infant health services through the end of breastfeeding were significantly associated with the primary outcome of engagement in HIV care and viral suppression at 12 months postpartum, compared to the standard of care. Here, we quantitatively explore potential psychosocial modifiers and mediators of this association. Our findings suggest that the intervention was significantly more effective among women experiencing an unintended pregnancy but did not improve outcomes among women reporting risky alcohol use. Although not statistically significant, our results suggest that the intervention may also be more effective among women experiencing higher levels of poverty and HIV-related stigma. We observed no definitive mediator of the intervention effect, but women allocated to integrated services reported better relationships with their healthcare providers through 12 months postpartum. These findings point to high-risk groups that may benefit the most from integrated care, as well as groups for whom these benefits are hampered and that warrant further attention in intervention development and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Brittain
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.
| | - Karryn Brown
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Tamsin Phillips
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Allison Zerbe
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Pellowski
- Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- International Health Institute, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Robert H Remien
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claude A Mellins
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elaine J Abrams
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
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16
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Katirayi L, Maphosa T, Chilikutali L, Chamanga RK, Petersson J, Khatib S, Munthali B, Nyirenda R, Matiya E, Nyirenda L, Tiam A, Denoeud-Ndam L. Understanding gender differences of people with HIV newly diagnosed or returning to care with advanced HIV disease in Malawi: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2382. [PMID: 38041058 PMCID: PMC10691116 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17384-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite tremendous progress in improving antiretroviral therapy (ART) access, advanced HIV disease (AHD) still remains a challenge globally. Reasons for delayed presentation to care and ART adherence may be affected by gender. We present qualitative study findings on gender differences in decisions for HIV testing and ART initiation/adherence in adults with AHD in Malawi. METHODS We used a qualitative study design, interviewing 16 men and 16 women aged 18 years and above diagnosed with AHD in sites implementing an optimized package of AHD care, from December 2021-February 2022. We included study participants receiving AHD services for at least two months. We also interviewed 16 lay workers and 16 health care workers supporting people living with AHD. In-depths interviews (IDIs) were conducted in English or Chichewa by trained research assistants using semi-structured interview guides. A short-answer analysis was conducted, and findings were interpreted according to thematic areas. RESULTS Both men and women reported stigma as a main barrier influencing their decision to test for HIV and to initiate and adhere to ART. Fear of side effects, insufficient food, and the need for more information were other barriers reported among men and women as well as perceived as barriers by HCWs. Men appear to have tested later for HIV and stated that they were waiting until experiencing significant symptoms before testing. According to clients and HCWs, men were also less inclined to initiate ART after a HIV diagnosis, whereas women were motivated to start treatment to remain healthy and care for the family. Both genders reported that treatment could be delayed if they were feeling healthy. Treatment fatigue was reported among all groups as the main reason to discontinue treatment. CONCLUSIONS There were similarities and differences between genders in decision-making about HIV care. Concerns about stigma were important reasons for delay in HIV care in both genders. Motivations for accessing HIV treatment and care were different among men and women, pushing the need for gender-tailored counseling services and community messaging that educate both men and women on the benefits of initiating ART early, in turn reducing the number of people presenting with AHD. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05510973, first registration 22/08/2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Katirayi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, Geneva, USA
| | - Thulani Maphosa
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | | | | | - Sarah Khatib
- George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Rose Nyirenda
- Department of HIV and AIDS, Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Eddie Matiya
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Appolinaire Tiam
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, Geneva, USA
| | - Lise Denoeud-Ndam
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, Geneva, USA.
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Nelson A, Bheemraj K, Dean SS, de Voux A, Hlatshwayo L, Mvududu R, Berkowitz N, Neumuller C, Jacobs S, Fourie S, Coates T, Bekker LG, Myer L, Davey DJ. Integration of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services for pregnant and breastfeeding women in eight primary care clinics: results of an implementation science study. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3648622. [PMID: 38045335 PMCID: PMC10690321 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3648622/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Although HIV vertical transmission (VT) has declined significantly in sub-Saharan Africa, incident HIV infection in pregnant and postpartum women is estimated to account for roughly one-third of VT. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for pregnant and breastfeeding women (PBFW) is part of the recommended guidelines in South Africa since 2021; however, integration of PrEP services within antenatal (ANC) and postnatal care (PNC) remains limited. Methods Between March 2022 and September 2023, we evaluated the acceptability, feasibility and sustainability of integrating PrEP for PBFW in high-HIV prevalence clinics after training and mentoring health care providers (HCP). We used the Reach Effectiveness-Adoption Implementation Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework to evaluate the intervention. Acceptability and maintenance were defined as the proportion of PBFW without HIV who initiated PrEP and the proportion of women continuing PrEP at 3 months in ANC or PNC services. Feasibility was defined as the proportion of trained HCPs (HIV lay counsellors and nurses/ midwives) who provided PrEP according to national guidelines, measured through post-training surveys and in-service assessments. Sustainability was defined as number of facilities and providers that continued to provide PrEP for PBFW past the mentoring period. Results In 8 facilities providing ANC and PNC, we trained 224 HCP (127 nurses and 37 counsellors). Of those, we mentored 60 nurses, midwives and HIV counsellors working with PBFW, with 72% of nurse/midwives and 65% of counsellors scoring over 8/10 on the final mentoring assessment Overall, 12% (1493/12,614) of HIV-negative pregnant women started PrEP and 41% of those continued PrEP at 3-months. Among the HIV-negative breastfeeding women in postnatal care, 179/1315 (14%) initiated PrEP and 25% continued PrEP at 3-months. All 8 facilities continued providing PrEP 3-months after handover of the clinics. Conclusion Integration of PrEP services in ANC and services for breastfeeding women was feasible, acceptable and sustainable. Acceptability and PrEP continuation showed improvement over time. Barriers to the PrEP integration were observed including the lack of regular HIV testing of breastfeeding mothers and need for ART-trained nurses to prescribe PrEP. Enablers included motivated and dedicated staff.
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Nelson A, Lebelo K, Cassidy T, Duran LT, Mantangana N, Mdani L, Malabi N, Solomon S, Buchanan K, Hacking D, Bhardwaj V, de Azevedo V, Patel-Abrahams S, Harley B, Hofmeyr C, Schmitz K, Myer L. Postnatal clubs: Implementation of a differentiated and integrated model of care for mothers living with HIV and their HIV-exposed uninfected babies in Cape Town, South Africa. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286906. [PMID: 37922301 PMCID: PMC10624264 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the overall reduction in the HIV mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) rate in South Africa, poor adherence and retention in care during breastfeeding contribute to this period being a major driver of MTCT in South Africa. To improve this retention, postnatal clubs were created as an integrated, differentiated model of care providing psychosocial support and comprehensive care for the mother-infant pairs (MIP), including HIV and under-5-child services. We describe the implementation of these facility-based clubs and examine its health outcomes in a peri-urban primary health care setting in Cape Town, South Africa. METHODS In this prospective cohort study, conducted between June 2016 and December 2019, MIPs were recruited into postnatal clubs between 6 weeks and 6 months of age and followed-up until 18 months of age. Outcomes including maternal Viral Load (VL), and children's HIV testing were compared to a historical control group. Children's immunizations and maternal sexual and reproductive health outcomes are also described. RESULTS During the implementation of the postnatal club study period, 484 MIP were recruited with 84% overall attendance, 95% overall viral load suppression, and 98% overall uptake of HIV infant testing. Compared to historical controls, the club infant rapid test uptake was 1.6 times higher (95% CI: 1.4-1.9) at 9 months and 2.0 times higher at 18 months (95% CI: 1.6-2.6). Through 12 months and between 12-18 months, maternal VL monitoring was higher in the club group compared to the historical control by 1.5 times (95% CI: 1.3-1.6) and 2.6 times (95% CI: 2.1-3.2), respectively, with similar maternal VL suppression. Of 105 infants attending the 12 months visit, 99% were fully vaccinated by one year. CONCLUSION MIP in the postnatal clubs showed better PMTCT outcomes than historical controls with high levels of retention in care. Other outcomes such as immunisation results suggest that integration of services, such as in the postnatal club, is feasible and beneficial for MIPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelie Nelson
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Keitu Lebelo
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tali Cassidy
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Beth Harley
- City of Cape Town Health Department, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Clare Hofmeyr
- Mothers2mothers, Cape Town, South Africa
- J-PAL Africa, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Guyo TG, Toma TM, Haftu D, Kote M, Merid F, Kulayta K, Makisha M, Temesgen K. Proportion of Attrition and Associated Factors Among Children Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in Public Health Facilities, Southern Ethiopia. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2023; 15:491-502. [PMID: 37600485 PMCID: PMC10439800 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s422173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a major global public health concern. Despite the improved access and utilization of antiretroviral therapy (ART), attrition from care among children continues to be a major obstacle to the effectiveness of ART programs. Hence, this study aimed to assess the proportion of attrition and associated factors among children receiving ART in public health facilities of Gamo and South Omo Zones, Southern Ethiopia. Patients and Methods A retrospective follow-up study was conducted in public health facilities of Gamo and South Omo Zones in Southern Ethiopia from April 12, 2022, to May 10, 2022. The proportion of attrition was determined by dividing the number of attrition by the total number of participants. Descriptive statistics were calculated. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with attrition. Statistical significance was set at p-value <0.05. Results The median age of the participants was 5.5 (IQR: 2-9) years. The proportion of attrition from ART care was 32.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 27.57% to 37.69%). Death of either of the parents (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.19; 95% CI:1.14, 4.18), or both parents (AOR = 3.19; 95% CI: 1.20, 8.52), hemoglobin level <10mg/dL (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.21, 4.70), a cluster of differentiation (CD)4 count ≤200 cells/mm3 (AOR = 6.78, 95% CI: 3.16, 14.53), CD4 count 200-350 cells/mm3 (AOR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.16, 6.03), suboptimal adherence (AOR = 6.38; 95% CI: 3.36, 12.19), and unchanged initial regimen (AOR = 6.88; 95% CI: 3.58, 13.19) were factors associated with attrition. Conclusion Attrition from care is identified to be a substantial public health problem. Therefore, designing interventions to improve the timely tracing of missed follow-up schedules and adherence support is needed, especially for children with either/both parents died, unchanged initial regimen, low CD4, and/or low hemoglobin level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamirat Gezahegn Guyo
- Department of Public Health, Arba Minch College of Health Sciences, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Temesgen Mohammed Toma
- Department of Public Health, Arba Minch College of Health Sciences, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Desta Haftu
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Mesfin Kote
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Fasika Merid
- Department of Public Health, Arba Minch College of Health Sciences, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Kebede Kulayta
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Arba Minch College of Health Sciences, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Markos Makisha
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Kidus Temesgen
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
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Nutor JJ, Gyamerah AO, Alhassan RK, Duah HO, Thompson RGA, Wilson N, Harris O, Gutierrez J, Hoffmann TJ, Getahun M, Santos GM. Influence of depression and interpersonal support on adherence to antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:42. [PMID: 37386514 PMCID: PMC10308781 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00538-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor adherence and under-utilization of antiretroviral therapy (ART) services have been major setbacks to achieving 95-95-95 policy goals in Sub-Saharan Africa. Social support and mental health challenges may serve as barriers to accessing and adhering to ART but are under-studied in low-income countries. The purpose of this study was to examine the association of interpersonal support and depression scores with adherence to ART among persons living with HIV (PLWH) in the Volta region of Ghana. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 181 PLWH 18 years or older who receive care at an ART clinic between November 2021 and March 2022. The questionnaire included a 6-item simplified ART adherence scale, the 20-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the 12-item Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12 (ISEL-12). We first used a chi-squared or Fisher's exact test to assess the association between these and additional demographic variables with ART adherence status. We then built a stepwise multivariable logistic regression model to explain ART adherence. RESULTS ART adherence was 34%. The threshold for depression was met by 23% of participants, but it was not significantly associated with adherence in multivariate analysis(p = 0.25). High social support was reported by 48.1%, and associated with adherence (p = 0.033, aOR = 3.45, 95% CI = 1.09-5.88). Other factors associated with adherence included in the multivariable model included not disclosing HIV status (p = 0.044, aOR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.03-4.54) and not living in an urban area (p = 0.00037, aOR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.11-0.52). CONCLUSION Interpersonal support, rural residence, and not disclosing HIV status were independent predictors of adherence to ART in the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry John Nutor
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Akua O Gyamerah
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Kaba Alhassan
- Centre for Health Policy and Implementation Research, Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Henry Ofori Duah
- College of Nursing, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Rachel G A Thompson
- Language Center, College of Humanities, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Accra, Ghana
| | - Natalie Wilson
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Orlando Harris
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jose Gutierrez
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas J Hoffmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Office of Research, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Monica Getahun
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Glenn-Milo Santos
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Mubiana-Mbewe M, Bosomprah S, Saroj RK, Kadota J, Koyuncu A, Thankian K, Vinikoor MJ. Development and validation of a novel scale for antiretroviral therapy readiness among pregnant women in urban Zambia with newly diagnosed HIV infection. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:21. [PMID: 37024961 PMCID: PMC10080880 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00509-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who are newly diagnosed with HIV infection during pregnancy may not be ready to immediately initiate lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART; called Option B +) as is recommended. Lack of "readiness" drives early disengagement from care and undermines prevention of HIV transmission to infants. Several studies have shown high early attrition of women initiating ART in pregnancy. Although poor ART uptake and adherence have been attributed to various factors including stigma, disclosure issues and structural issues, there is no standard way of determining which pregnant woman will face challenges and therefore need additional support. We developed and validated a novel ART readiness tool in Lusaka, Zambia. METHODS The aim of this study was to develop and validate a tool that could be used to assess how ready a newly diagnosed pregnant woman living with HIV would be to initiate ART on the day of diagnosis. Using a mixed method design, we conducted this study in three public-setting health facilities in Lusaka, Zambia. Informed by qualitative research and literature review, we identified 27 candidate items. We assessed content validity using expert and target population judgment approaches. We administered the 27-item questionnaire to 454 newly diagnosed pregnant women living with HIV, who were enrolled into a randomized trial (trials number NCT02459678). We performed item reduction analysis and used Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.70 as threshold for reliability. RESULTS A total of 454 pregnant women living with HIV enrolled in the study between March 2017 and December 2017; 452 had complete data for analysis. The correlation coefficient between the 27 items on the completed ART readiness scale ranged from 0.31 to 0.70 while item discrimination index ranged from -0.01 to 2.38. Sixteen items were selected for the final scale, representing three domains, which we classified as "internalized and anticipated HIV stigma", "partner support" and "anticipated structural barriers". CONCLUSION We developed and validated a tool that could be used to assess readiness of newly diagnosed women living with HIV to initiate ART. This ART readiness tool could allow clinics to tailor limited resources to pregnant women living with HIV needing additional support to initiate and remain on ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mwangelwa Mubiana-Mbewe
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Zambia, Plot 34620 Off Alick Nkhata Road, P.O. Box 34681, Lusaka, Zambia.
| | - Samuel Bosomprah
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Zambia, Plot 34620 Off Alick Nkhata Road, P.O. Box 34681, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Rakesh Kumar Saroj
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Jillian Kadota
- UCSF Center for Tuberculosis and Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aybuke Koyuncu
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Michael J Vinikoor
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Zambia, Plot 34620 Off Alick Nkhata Road, P.O. Box 34681, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
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Harrison N, Lawal I, Aribisala K, Oruka K, Adamu Y, Agaba P, Lee E, Chittenden L, Okeji N. Effect of multi-month antiretroviral dispensing on HIV clinic attendance at 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Yaba, Nigeria. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2023; 22:63-68. [PMID: 37116113 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2023.2188232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Background: Multi-month dispensing (MMD) of antiretroviral therapy has demonstrated benefits for HIV patients and health service delivery systems, including reduced frequency of hospital visits and improved retention. We evaluated the effect of 6-monthly dispensing (MMD6) on patient clinic attendance at a single military facility in the one-year pre- and post-policy change.Methods: This was a descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional study, exploring the relationship between MMD6 and clinic attendance numbers. We reviewed aggregate clinic attendance records for clients on ART and documented monthly trends in clinic attendance numbers, number of clients current on ART, and amount of ART dispensed.Results: In the pre-MMD6 group, 4 150 patients were included, and 4 190 in the post-MMD6 group. Clinic attendance was 30 407 visits (16 111 pre-MMD6 and 14 296 post-MMD6). An overall mean increase of 326.58 ± 861.81 (95% CI = -874.15 ± 220.98) drugs were dispensed per month; t(11) = -1.31, p = 0.22; mean monthly clinic attendance declined from 1342.8 ± 220.10 visits pre-MMD6 to 1191.33 ± 309.10 post-MMD6 with t(11) = 1.601, p = 0.14, but was not statistically significant.Conclusion: Six-monthly dispensing can be an important tool to reduce HIV clinic volumes and improve antiretroviral access. It is particularly important for care continuity in military facilities where service members may be deployed or transferred to other bases along with their dependents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ismail Lawal
- US Army Medical Research Directorate-Africa, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | - Kenneth Oruka
- 68 Nigeria Army Reference Hospital, Yaba, Lagos Nigeria
| | - Yakubu Adamu
- US Army Medical Research Directorate-Africa, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Patricia Agaba
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, USA
| | - Elizabeth Lee
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, USA
| | | | - Nathan Okeji
- Nigerian Ministry of Defence - Health Implementation Program, Abuja, Nigeria
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23
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Watt MH, Minja LM, Barabara M, Mlay P, Stephens MJ, Olomi G, Mlay J, Marchand V, Mmbaga BT, Hanson OR, Cohen SR. A simulation and experiential learning intervention for labor and delivery providers to address HIV stigma during childbirth in Tanzania: study protocol for the evaluation of the MAMA intervention. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:181. [PMID: 36927460 PMCID: PMC10018883 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05482-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The experience of HIV stigma during intrapartum care can impact women's trust in the health care system and undermine their long-term commitment to HIV care engagement. Delivery of respectful maternity care (RMC) to women living with HIV (WLHIV) can improve quality of life and clinical outcomes. The goal of this study is to conduct an evaluation of MAMA (Mradi wa Afya ya Mama Mzazi, Project to Support the Health of Women Giving Birth), a simulation team-training curriculum for labor and delivery providers that addresses providers' instrumental and attitudinal stigma toward WLHIV and promotes the delivery of evidence-based RMC for WLHIV. METHODS The MAMA intervention will be evaluated among healthcare providers across six clinics in the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania. To evaluate the impact of MAMA, we will enroll WLHIV who give birth in the facilities before (n = 103 WLHIV) and after (n = 103 WLHIV) the intervention. We will examine differences in the primary outcome (perceptions of RMC) and secondary outcomes (postpartum HIV care engagement; perceptions of HIV stigma in the facility; internal HIV stigma; clinical outcomes and evidence-based practices) between women enrolled in the two time periods. Will also assess participating providers (n = 60) at baseline, immediate post, 1-month post training, and 2-month post training. We will examine longitudinal changes in the primary outcome (practices of RMC) and secondary outcomes (stigma toward WLHIV; self-efficacy in delivery intrapartum care). Quality assurance data will be collected to assess intervention feasibility and acceptability. DISCUSSION The implementation findings will be used to finalize the intervention for a train-the-trainer model that is scalable, and the outcomes data will be used to power a multi-site study to detect significant differences in HIV care engagement. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov, NCT05271903.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa H. Watt
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Intermountain Healthcare, Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake, UT 84102 USA
| | - Linda M. Minja
- grid.412898.e0000 0004 0648 0439Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Mariam Barabara
- grid.412898.e0000 0004 0648 0439Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Pendo Mlay
- grid.415218.b0000 0004 0648 072XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Maya J. Stephens
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Intermountain Healthcare, Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake, UT 84102 USA
| | | | - Janeth Mlay
- grid.412898.e0000 0004 0648 0439Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Virginie Marchand
- grid.26009.3d0000 0004 1936 7961School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham NC, USA
| | - Blandina T. Mmbaga
- grid.412898.e0000 0004 0648 0439Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Olivia R. Hanson
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Intermountain Healthcare, Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake, UT 84102 USA
| | - Susanna R. Cohen
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT USA
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Brittain K, Gomba Y, Noholoza S, Pellowski J, Mellins CA, Bekker LG, Kagee A, Remien RH, Abrams EJ, Myer L. HIV-related stigma, disclosure and social support: experiences among young pregnant and postpartum women living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Care 2023; 35:399-405. [PMID: 36102063 PMCID: PMC10011013 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2121957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTYoung pregnant and postpartum women living with HIV (WLHIV) are at high risk of poor antiretroviral therapy (ART) outcomes, which may be driven partly by HIV-related stigma. We conducted in-depth interviews with 20 pregnant and postpartum WLHIV aged 19-24 years to understand how different forms of HIV-related stigma manifest in their lives, as well as their experiences of HIV-status disclosure and social support. Participants described profound levels of perceived stigma in their community, including gossip from other young women and judgement from older adults. Consequently, participants disclosed to a limited number of people to avoid being stigmatised, and disclosure to peers was especially uncommon. However, disclosure in certain situations was described as leading to emotional support and support for ART adherence, and disclosure to older WLHIV resulted in participants having a role model. Finally, participants expressed varied ways in which they accept, speak about, and live with their HIV diagnosis. These data provide a rich understanding of the experiences of HIV-related stigma in this population and point to the need for psychosocial interventions focussed on acceptance and coping with an HIV-positive diagnosis despite profound levels of perceived stigma, as well as navigating decisions around the targets and timing of disclosure.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04036851.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Brittain
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Yolanda Gomba
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sandisiwe Noholoza
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Pellowski
- Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- International Health Institute, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Claude A. Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute of Infectious Diseases & Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ashraf Kagee
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Robert H. Remien
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elaine J. Abrams
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Window M, Nyondo-Mipando AL, Kalanga N. Male involvement enhances the uptake of early infant diagnosis of HIV services in Thyolo, Malawi: A non-equivalent control group quasi-experimental study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281105. [PMID: 36812286 PMCID: PMC9946214 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor retention of HIV-exposed infants (HEIs) in the Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) programme remains a significant challenge and impedes progress towards the elimination of Mother to Child Transmission (eMTCT). Suboptimal involvement of a father in his child's participation in the EID of HIV services is one of the reasons for delayed initiation and poor retention in EID. This study compared the uptake of EID of HIV services at 6weeks from 6 months pre and post-implementation of the Partner invitation card and Attending to couples first (PA) strategy for male involvement (MI) at Bvumbwe Health Centre in Thyolo, Malawi. METHODS We conducted a non-equivalent control group quasi-experimental study from September 2018 to August 2019 and enrolled 204 HIV positive women with HIV exposed infants who delivered at Bvumbwe health facility. 110 women were in the period before MI in EID of HIV services from September 2018 to February 2019 whereas 94 of them were in the period of MI in EID of HIV services from March to August 2019 receiving PA strategy for MI. Using descriptive and inferential analysis we compared the two groups of women. As age, parity and education levels of women were not associated with the uptake of EID, we proceeded to calculate unadjusted odds ratio. RESULTS We observed an increase in the proportion of women that took up EID of HIV services such that 64/94 (68.1%) came for EID of HIV services at 6weeks from 44/110 (40%) in the period before MI. The uptake of EID of HIV services had an odds ratio of 3.2(95%CI: 1.8-5.7) P = 0.001) compared to the uptake of EID of HIV services before MI OR of 0.6(95%CI: 0.46-0.98) P = 0.037). Age, parity, and education levels of women were statistically insignificant. CONCLUSION The uptake of EID of HIV services at 6 weeks increased during the implementation of MI compared to the period before. Age, parity, and education levels of women were not associated with the EID uptake of HIV services at 6 weeks. Further studies on male involvement and uptake of EID should continue to be carried out to contribute to understanding of how high levels of EID uptake of HIV services can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Window
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health sciences (Formerly College of Medicine), Blantyre, Malawi
- Department of Reproductive Health, School of Maternal, Neonatal and Reproductive Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (Formerly College of Nursing), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Alinane Linda Nyondo-Mipando
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health sciences (Formerly College of Medicine), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Noel Kalanga
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health sciences (Formerly College of Medicine), Blantyre, Malawi
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Psaros C, Stanton AM, Raggio GA, Mosery N, Goodman GR, Briggs ES, Williams M, Bangsberg D, Smit J, Safren SA. Optimizing PMTCT Adherence by Treating Depression in Perinatal Women with HIV in South Africa: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Int J Behav Med 2023; 30:62-76. [PMID: 35260947 PMCID: PMC9452601 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-022-10071-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa (SA) has the greatest HIV prevalence in the world, with rates as high as 40% among pregnant women. Depression is a robust predictor of nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and engagement in HIV care; perinatal depression may affect upwards of 47% of women in SA. Evidence-based, scalable approaches for depression treatment and ART adherence in this setting are lacking. METHOD Twenty-three pregnant women with HIV (WWH), ages 18-45 and receiving ART, were randomized to a psychosocial depression and adherence intervention or treatment as usual (TAU) to evaluate intervention feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effect on depressive symptoms and ART adherence. Assessments were conducted pre-, immediately post-, and 3 months post-treatment, and included a qualitative exit interview. RESULTS Most (67.6%) eligible individuals enrolled; 71% completed at least 75% of sessions. Compared to TAU, intervention participants had significantly greater improvements in depressive symptoms at post-treatment, β = - 11.1, t(24) = - 3.1, p < 0.005, 95% CI [- 18.41, - 3.83], and 3 months, β = - 13.8, t(24) = - 3.3, p < 0.005, 95% CI [- 22.50, - 5.17]. No significant differences in ART adherence, social support, or stigma were found. Qualitatively, perceived improvements in social support, self-esteem, and problem-solving adherence barriers emerged as key benefits of the intervention; additional sessions were desired. CONCLUSION A combined depression and ART adherence intervention appears feasible and acceptable, and demonstrated preliminary evidence of efficacy in a high-need population. Additional research is needed to confirm efficacy and identify dissemination strategies to optimize the health of WWH and their children. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03069417. Protocol available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03069417.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Psaros
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital / Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- , Boston, USA.
| | - Amelia M Stanton
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital / Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Greer A Raggio
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital / Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- National Center for Weight and Wellness, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Nzwakie Mosery
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Georgia R Goodman
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital / Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elsa S Briggs
- Department of Health Systems & Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Community Health Science, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marcel Williams
- Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, D.C., USA
| | | | - Jenni Smit
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Steven A Safren
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Stecher C, Palimaru AI, Odiit M, Lunkuse L, Walukaga S, Linnemayr S. Barriers and facilitators of antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence habit formation in Sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from a qualitative study in Kampala, Uganda. Soc Sci Med 2023; 317:115567. [PMID: 36459789 PMCID: PMC9839633 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE In 2020, nearly 40 million people lived with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) worldwide, of whom 70% were receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Two-thirds of PLWHA reside in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where rates of viral load suppression are often suboptimal and frequently attributed to low ART adherence. Strong pill-taking habits are often reported as a key strategy among those who successfully maintain medication adherence, yet not enough is known about the barriers and facilitators in SSA to pill-taking in response to the same contextual cue, which is a necessary step in the habit formation process. OBJECTIVE To address this knowledge gap and to inform a subsequent intervention to promote context-dependent repetition, called anchoring, we used a formative qualitative approach to collect in-depth narratives about barriers and facilitators of the anchoring intervention for establishing ART pill-taking habits at the Mildmay Hospital in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS We conducted interviews with 25 randomly selected patients starting ART, 5 expert patients, and 10 providers at Mildmay, and performed a rapid analysis to inform the intervention in a timely manner. RESULTS We found that pill taking in response to the same contextual cue, or anchor, was threatened by stigma and food insecurity and that the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these barriers. We also determined that important linguistic changes were needed to the instructional materials and reminder messages in the subsequent intervention to avoid words and phrases with negative connotations for this target population. CONCLUSIONS Several important barriers and facilitators to context-dependent pill taking in Uganda were identified through our formative research that helped to inform important revisions to our subsequent intervention. These findings underscore the importance of understanding local barriers and facilitators when designing and planning interventions, particularly when implementing theory-based intervention approaches that have yet to be tested in a new setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad Stecher
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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Brittain K, Pellowski J, Noholoza S, Mellins CA, Bekker LG, Kagee A, Remien RH, Abrams EJ, Myer L. Perinatal alcohol use among young women living with HIV in South Africa: Context, experiences, and implications for interventions. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2221732. [PMID: 37302089 PMCID: PMC10413958 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2221732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Perinatal alcohol use is common in South Africa, including among young women living with HIV (WLHIV), but there are few insights into the drivers of alcohol use in this population. Following the completion of a pilot trial of a peer support intervention for WLHIV aged 16-24 years in Cape Town, we purposively selected participants who had reported perinatal alcohol use at ≥1 study visits to complete a qualitative in-depth interview exploring their experiences of substance use. Of 119 women enrolled, 28 reported alcohol use, and 24 were interviewed, with ≥1/3 reporting drinking throughout their pregnancy. Women described living in a community where heavy perinatal alcohol consumption is normalised, including among their peers, leading to social pressure. Despite being aware of the risks of perinatal alcohol use, women described a disconnect between public health messaging and their experiences. Although most acknowledged the negative effects of alcohol in their lives, self-efficacy to reduce consumption was diminished by peer influences and the lack of formal employment and opportunities for recreation. These findings provide insights into the drivers of perinatal alcohol use in this setting, and suggest that without meaningful community-level changes, including employment opportunities and alternatives for socialising, interventions may have limited impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Brittain
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Pellowski
- Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- International Health Institute, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sandisiwe Noholoza
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Claude A. Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ashraf Kagee
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Robert H. Remien
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elaine J. Abrams
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Nevrekar N, Butler K, Shapiro DE, Atuhaire P, Taha TE, Makanani B, Chinula L, Owor M, Moodley D, Chipato T, McCarthy K, Flynn PM, Currier J, Fowler MG, Gupta A, Suryavanshi N. Self-reported Antiretroviral Adherence: Association With Maternal Viral Load Suppression in Postpartum Women Living With HIV-1 From Promoting Maternal and Infant Survival Everywhere, a Randomized Controlled Trial in Sub-Saharan Africa and India. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:76-83. [PMID: 36170749 PMCID: PMC9722360 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial to promoting maternal-infant health. SETTING Fourteen sites in 7 countries within sub-Saharan Africa and India. METHODS The multicomponent, open-label strategy PROMISE trial enrolled breastfeeding mother-infant pairs not meeting in-country criteria for maternal ART (mART) initiation in the postpartum component within 5 days of delivery. Randomization was to mART versus infant NVP (iNVP) prophylaxis. Infants in the mART arm also received 6 weeks of iNVP. Self-reported adherence was assessed in a secondary analysis. Time-to-event analyses were performed to explore the association between adherence and maternal viral load (mVL) in the mART arm. RESULTS Two thousand four hundred thirty-one mother-infant pairs were enrolled between 2011 and 2014; the baseline maternal median CD4 was 686 (IQR 553-869), and the median mVL was 322 copies/mL (IQR 40-1422). Self-reported adherence was lower in the mART arm compared with the iNVP arm (no missed doses within 4 weeks of all study visits: 66% vs 83%; within 2 weeks: 71% vs 85%; P < 0.0001). The iNVP adherence at week 6 was high in both arms: 97% in mART arm; 95% in iNVP arm. Time-to-event analyses showed that adherence to mART was associated with time to first mVL ≥400 copies/mL ( P < 0.0001). Missing 1 full day of doses over 3 days was associated with a 66% risk of mVL ≥1000 copies/mL (HR: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.37, 1.99). CONCLUSIONS Postpartum women were less adherent to their own ART than mothers providing their infant's nevirapine prophylaxis. The self-reported missed mART doses were associated with high mVL. Strategies to optimize postpartum mART adherence are urgently needed. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01061151; closed to follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neetal Nevrekar
- Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Government Medical College- Johns Hopkins University Clinical Research Site, Pune, India
| | - Kevin Butler
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - David E. Shapiro
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Patience Atuhaire
- Makerere University–John Hopkins University Research Collaboration (MUJHU CARE LTD) CRS, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Taha E. Taha
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Bonus Makanani
- College of Medicine-Johns Hopkins Project, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Maxensia Owor
- Makerere University–John Hopkins University Research Collaboration (MUJHU CARE LTD) CRS, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dhayendre Moodley
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tsungai Chipato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Patricia M. Flynn
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Judith Currier
- UCLA Centre for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Mary Glenn Fowler
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and
| | - Amita Gupta
- Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Nishi Suryavanshi
- Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Government Medical College- Johns Hopkins University Clinical Research Site, Pune, India
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Lain MG, Chicumbe S, Cantarutti A, Porcu G, Cardoso L, Cotugno N, Palma P, Pahwa R, Pallikkuth S, Rinaldi S, Vaz P, Pahwa S. Caregivers' psychosocial assessment for identifying HIV-infected infants at risk of poor treatment adherence: an exploratory study in southern Mozambique. AIDS Care 2023; 35:53-62. [PMID: 36169018 PMCID: PMC10071299 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2125159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Psychosocial support (PSS) to caregivers of HIV-infected infants on antiretroviral treatment (ART) is crucial to ensure ART adherence and sustained long-term viral suppression in children. A specific approach including tools to monitor and understand adherence behavior and risk factors that prevent optimal treatment compliance are urgently needed. This qualitative exploratory study, conducted in southern Mozambique, monitored the infants' viral response trajectories during 18 months follow-up, as a measure of adherence, reviewed the caregiver's PSS session notes and the answers to a study questionnaire, to analyze whether the standard PSS checklist applied to infants' caregivers can identify barriers influencing their adherence. Only 9 of 31 infants had sustained virologic response. Reported factors affecting adherence were: difficulties in drugs administration, shared responsibility to administer treatment; disclosure of child's HIV status to family members but lack of engagement; mother's ART interruption and poor viral response. In conclusion, we found that the standard PSS approach alone, applied to caregivers, was lacking focus on many relevant matters that were identified by the study questionnaire. A comprehensive patient-centered PSS package of care, including an adherence risk factor monitoring tool, tailored to caregivers and their children must be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sergio Chicumbe
- Health System and Policy Cluster, Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Anna Cantarutti
- National Centre for Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Laboratory of Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Gloria Porcu
- National Centre for Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Laboratory of Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Loide Cardoso
- Fundação Ariel Glaser contra o SIDA Pediátrico, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Nicola Cotugno
- Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital IRCCS, Department of Pediatrics, Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Palma
- Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital IRCCS, Department of Pediatrics, Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Rajendra Pahwa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miami Center for AIDS Research, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Suresh Pallikkuth
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miami Center for AIDS Research, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Stefano Rinaldi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miami Center for AIDS Research, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Paula Vaz
- Fundação Ariel Glaser contra o SIDA Pediátrico, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Savita Pahwa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Miami Center for AIDS Research, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Lawrence ER, Klein TJ, Beyuo TK. Maternal Mortality in Low and Middle-Income Countries. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2022; 49:713-733. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Stecher C, Ghai I, Lunkuse L, Wabukala P, Odiit M, Nakanwagi A, Linnemayr S. INcentives and ReMINDers to Improve Long-term Medication Adherence (INMIND): Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial in Uganda (Preprint). JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e42216. [DOI: 10.2196/42216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Simelane PT, Simelane MS, Amoateng AY. Barriers and facilitators to adherence for antiretroviral therapy: the perspectives of patients from a wellness center in the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Afr Health Sci 2022; 22:455-462. [PMID: 36910408 PMCID: PMC9993319 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v22i3.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Patients' non-adherence to antiretroviral treatment remains a public health concern in many developing countries, especially in South Africa. Objectives The objective of the study was to explore the barriers and facilitators of patients' ART adherence in one health care facility in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Methods A qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive design was employed to collect data using a semi-structured interview guide through individual in-depth interviews among twenty (20) purposively selected patients. The thematic analysis approach was used to generate themes from the data. Results A majority of the participants were female (n=12, 60%), married (n=13, 65%), and employed (n=12, 60%). Barriers to ART adherence include insufficient medical staff at the health center and waiting time being too long. Facilitators included service providers' positive attitude, clear instructions for taking medication, benefits of adhering to ART, and dangers of defaulting treatment. Conclusion Barriers and facilitators for adherence included several factors related to the health system, health care workers, and the patients. Achievement of optimal adherence to ART requires the commitment of both patients and providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Portia T Simelane
- Department of Demography and Population Studies, Northwest University, Mafikeng, Northwest Province, South Africa
| | - Maswati S Simelane
- Department of Statistics and Demography, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Eswatini, Eswatini
| | - Acheampong Y Amoateng
- School of Research Studies, Northwest University, Mafikeng Campus, Northwest Province, South Africa
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Wachira J, Genberg B, Mwangi A, Chemutai D, Braitstein P, Galarraga O, Abraham S, Wilson I. Impact of an Enhanced Patient Care Intervention on Viral Suppression Among Patients Living With HIV in Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:434-439. [PMID: 35320121 PMCID: PMC9246844 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective patient-centered interventions are needed to promote patient engagement in HIV care. We assessed the impact of a patient-centered intervention referred to as enhanced patient care (EPC) on viral suppression among unsuppressed patients living with HIV in Kenya. SETTING Two rural HIV clinics within the Academic Model Providing Access to Health care. METHODS This was a 6-month pilot randomized control trial. The EPC intervention incorporated continuity of clinician-patient relationships, enhanced treatment dialog, and improved patients' clinic appointment scheduling. Provider-patient communication training was offered to all clinicians in the intervention site. We targeted 360 virally unsuppressed patients: (1) 240 in the intervention site with 120 randomly assigned to provider-patient communication (PPC) training + EPC and 120 to PPC training + standard of care (SOC) and (2) 120 in the control site receiving SOC. Logistic regression analysis was applied using R (version 3.6.3). RESULTS A total of 328 patients were enrolled: 110 (92%) PPC training + EPC, 110 (92%) PPC training + SOC, and 108 (90%) SOC. Participants' mean age at baseline was 48 years (SD: 12.05 years). Viral suppression 6 months postintervention was 84.4% among those in PPC training + EPC, 83.7% in PPC training + SOC, and 64.4% in SOC ( P ≤ 0.001). Compared with participants in PPC training + EPC, those in SOC had lower odds of being virally suppressed 6 months postintervention (odds ratio = 0.36, 95% confidence interval: 0.18 to 0.72). CONCLUSIONS PPC training may have had the greatest impact on patient viral suppression. Hence, adequate training and effective PPC implementation strategies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juddy Wachira
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Media Studies, School of Literature, Language and Media, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Becky Genberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Ann Mwangi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
- Institute of Biomedical Informatics, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Diana Chemutai
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Omar Galarraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Siika Abraham
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Ira Wilson
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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35
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Fernández-Luis S, Lain MG, Serna-Pascual M, Domínguez-Rodríguez S, Kuhn L, Liberty A, Barnabas S, Lopez-Varela E, Otwombe K, Danaviah S, Nastouli E, Palma P, Cotugno N, Spyer M, Giannuzzi V, Giaquinto C, Violari A, Cotton MF, Nhampossa T, Klein N, Ramsagar N, van Rensburg AJ, Behuhuma O, Vaz P, Maiga AI, Oletto A, Naniche D, Rossi P, Rojo P, Tagarro A. Optimizing the World Health Organization algorithm for HIV vertical transmission risk assessment by adding maternal self-reported antiretroviral therapy adherence. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1312. [PMID: 35804333 PMCID: PMC9264598 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13543-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization (WHO) risk assessment algorithm for vertical transmission of HIV (VT) assumes the availability of maternal viral load (VL) result at delivery and early viral control 4 weeks after initiating antiretroviral treatment (ART). However, in many low-and-middle-income countries, VL is often unavailable and mothers' ART adherence may be suboptimal. We evaluate the inclusion of the mothers' self-reported adherence into the established WHO-algorithm to identify infants eligible for enhanced post-natal prophylaxis when mothers' VL result is not available at delivery. METHODS We used data from infants with perinatal HIV infection and their mothers enrolled from May-2018 to May-2020 in Mozambique, South Africa, and Mali. We retrospectively compared the performance of the WHO-algorithm with a modified algorithm which included mothers' adherence as an additional factor. Infants were considered at high risk if born from mothers without a VL result in the 4 weeks before delivery and with adherence <90%. RESULTS At delivery, 143/184(78%) women with HIV knew their status and were on ART. Only 17(12%) obtained a VL result within 4 weeks before delivery, and 13/17(76%) of them had VL ≥1000 copies/ml. From 126 women on ART without a recent VL result, 99(79%) had been on ART for over 4 weeks. 45/99(45%) women reported suboptimal (< 90%) adherence. A total of 81/184(44%) infants were classified as high risk of VT as per the WHO-algorithm. The modified algorithm including self-adherence disclosure identified 126/184(68%) high risk infants. CONCLUSIONS In the absence of a VL result, mothers' self-reported adherence at delivery increases the number of identified infants eligible to receive enhanced post-natal prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Fernández-Luis
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Bairro Cambeve, Rua 12, Distrito da Manhiça, CP 1929, Maputo, Mozambique. .,ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - Miquel Serna-Pascual
- Pediatrics Department, Pediatric Research and Clinical Trials Unit (UPIC), Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (IMAS12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Domínguez-Rodríguez
- Pediatrics Department, Pediatric Research and Clinical Trials Unit (UPIC), Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (IMAS12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Louise Kuhn
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Afaaf Liberty
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Shaun Barnabas
- Family Center for Research with Ubuntu, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elisa Lopez-Varela
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Bairro Cambeve, Rua 12, Distrito da Manhiça, CP 1929, Maputo, Mozambique.,ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kennedy Otwombe
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Siva Danaviah
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Eleni Nastouli
- Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health (GOS ICH), University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Paolo Palma
- Research Unit in Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, 00165, Rome, Italy.,Chair of Pediatrics, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Cotugno
- Research Unit in Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital, 00165, Rome, Italy.,Chair of Pediatrics, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Moira Spyer
- Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health (GOS ICH), University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Viviana Giannuzzi
- Fondazione per la Ricerca Farmacologica Gianni Benzi onlus, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Carlo Giaquinto
- Department of Mother and Child Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Avy Violari
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mark F Cotton
- Family Center for Research with Ubuntu, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tacilta Nhampossa
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Bairro Cambeve, Rua 12, Distrito da Manhiça, CP 1929, Maputo, Mozambique.,Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS), Mozambique, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Nigel Klein
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health (GOS ICH), University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Nastassja Ramsagar
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anita Janse van Rensburg
- Family Center for Research with Ubuntu, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Osee Behuhuma
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Paula Vaz
- Fundação Ariel Glaser Contra o SIDA Pediátrico, Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | | | - Denise Naniche
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Bairro Cambeve, Rua 12, Distrito da Manhiça, CP 1929, Maputo, Mozambique.,ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paolo Rossi
- Academic Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | - Pablo Rojo
- Pediatrics Department, Pediatric Research and Clinical Trials Unit (UPIC), Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (IMAS12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfredo Tagarro
- Pediatrics Department, Pediatric Research and Clinical Trials Unit (UPIC), Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (IMAS12), Madrid, Spain.,Pediatrics Department, Hospital Universitario Infanta Sofía; Infanta Sofia University Hospital and Henares University Hospital Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation (FIIB HUIS HHEN), San Sebastián de los Reyes, Madrid, Spain.,Pediatrics Research Group, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Erickson M, Shannon K, Ranville F, Magagula P, Braschel M, Ratzlaff A, Pick N, Kestler M, Deering K. Interpersonal violence and other social-structural barriers associated with needing HIV treatment support for women living with HIV. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP9926-NP9952. [PMID: 33403922 PMCID: PMC8507564 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520983257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Women living with HIV (WLWH), experience disproportionate rates of violence, along with suboptimal HIV health outcomes, despite recent advancements in HIV treatment, known as antiretroviral therapy (ART). The objectives of this study were to: (a) describe different types of support needed to take ART and (b) investigate the social and structural correlates associated with needing support for ART adherence among WLWH. Data are drawn from Sexual health and HIV/AIDS: Women's Longitudinal Needs Assessment, a community-based open research cohort with cisgender and transgender WLWH, aged 14+ who live or access HIV services in Metro Vancouver, Canada (2014-present). Baseline and semi-annual questionnaires are administered by community interviewers alongside a clinical visit with a sexual health research nurse. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression using generalized estimating equations and an exchangeable working correlation matrix was used to model factors associated with needing supports for ART adherence. Among 276 WLWH, 51% (n = 142) reported needing support for ART adherence; 95% of participants reported lifetime gender-based violence and identified many interpersonal, structural, community, and clinical supports that would facilitate and support ART adherence. In multivariable logistic regression, participants who were Indigenous (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.70, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.07-2.72), or otherwise racialized (AOR: 2.36, 95% CI : 1.09-5.12) versus white, experienced recent gender-based physical violence (AOR : 1.54, 95% CI : 1.03-2.31), lifetime post-traumatic stress disorder (AOR : 1.97, 95% CI : 1.22-3.18), and recent illicit drug use (AOR : 2.15, 95% CI : 1.43-3.22), had increased odds of needing support for ART adherence. This research suggests a need for trauma-informed, culturally safe and culturally responsive practice and services for WLWH along the HIV care continuum to support ART adherence. All services should be developed by, with, and for WLWH and tailored according to gender identity, taking into account history, culture, and trauma, including the negative impacts of settler colonialism for Indigenous people.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Shannon
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Flo Ranville
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | - Andrea Ratzlaff
- Department of Family Medicine, Queens University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Neora Pick
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Oak Tree Clinic, British Columbia Women’s Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Mary Kestler
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Oak Tree Clinic, British Columbia Women’s Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kathleen Deering
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Bor J, Kluberg SA, LaValley MP, Evans D, Hirasen K, Maskew M, Long L, Fox MP. One Pill, Once a Day: Simplified Treatment Regimens and Retention in HIV Care. Am J Epidemiol 2022; 191:999-1008. [PMID: 35081613 PMCID: PMC9989337 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwac006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simplified drug regimens may improve retention in care for persons with chronic diseases. In April 2013, South Africa adopted a once-daily single-pill human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment regimen as the standard of care, replacing a multiple-pill regimen. Because the regimens had similar biological efficacy, the shift to single-pill therapy offered a real-world test of the impact of simplified drug-delivery mechanisms on patient behavior. Using a quasi-experimental regression discontinuity design, we assessed retention in care among patients starting HIV treatment just before and just after the guideline change. The study included 4,484 patients starting treatment at a large public sector clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa. The share of patients prescribed a single-pill regimen increased by over 40 percentage points between March and April 2013. Initiating treatment after the policy change was associated with 11.7-percentage-points' higher retention at 12 months (95% confidence interval: -2.2, 29.4). Findings were robust to different measures of retention, different bandwidths, and different statistical models. Patients starting treatment early in HIV infection-a key population in the test-and-treat era-experienced the greatest improvements in retention from single-pill regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Bor
- Correspondence to Dr. Jacob Bor, Departments of Global Health and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118 (e-mail: )
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Nutor JJ, Marquez S, Slaughter-Acey JC, Hoffmann TJ, DiMaria-Ghalili RA, Momplaisir F, Opong E, Jemmott LS. Water Access and Adherence Intention Among HIV-Positive Pregnant Women and New Mothers Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in Zambia. Front Public Health 2022; 10:758447. [PMID: 35433591 PMCID: PMC9010721 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.758447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mother-to-infant transmission of HIV is a major problem in Sub-Saharan Africa despite free or subsidized antiretroviral treatment (ART), but is significantly reduced when mothers adhere to ART. Because potable water access is limited in low-resource countries, we investigated water access and ART adherence intention among HIV-positive pregnant women and new mothers in Zambia. Methods Our convenience sample consisted of 150 pregnant or postpartum women receiving ART. Descriptive statistics compared type of water access by low and high levels of ART adherence intention. Results Most (71%) had access to piped water, but 36% of the low-adherence intention group obtained water from a well, borehole, lake or stream, compared to only 22% of the high-adherence intention group. The low-adherence intention group was more rural (62%) than urban (38%) women but not statistically significant [unadjusted Prevalence Ratio (PR) 0.73, 95% CI: 0.52-1.02; adjusted PR 1.06, 95% CI: 0.78-1.45]. Conclusion Providing potable water may improve ART adherence. Assessing available water sources in both rural and urban locations is critical when educating women initiating ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry John Nutor
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Shannon Marquez
- Undergraduate Global Engagement, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Jaime C. Slaughter-Acey
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Thomas J. Hoffmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and Office of Research, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | - Florence Momplaisir
- School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | - Loretta Sweet Jemmott
- College of Nursing and Health Professions Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Orievulu KS, Ayeb-Karlsson S, Ngema S, Baisley K, Tanser F, Ngwenya N, Seeley J, Hanekom W, Herbst K, Kniveton D, Iwuji CC. Exploring linkages between drought and HIV treatment adherence in Africa: a systematic review. Lancet Planet Health 2022; 6:e359-e370. [PMID: 35397224 PMCID: PMC7612934 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(22)00016-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is directly and indirectly linked to human health, including through access to treatment and care. Our systematic review presents a systems understanding of the nexus between drought and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence in HIV-positive individuals in the African setting. Narrative synthesis of 111 studies retrieved from Web of Science, PubMed/MEDLINE, and PsycINFO suggests that livelihoods and economic conditions, comorbidities and ART regimens, human mobility, and psychobehavioural dispositions and support systems interact in complex ways in the drought-ART adherence nexus in Africa. Economic and livelihood-related challenges appear to impose the strongest impact on human interactions, actions, and systems that culminate in non-adherence. Indeed, the complex pathways identified by our systems approach emphasise the need for more integrated research approaches to understanding this phenomenon and developing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kingsley Stephen Orievulu
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Centre for Africa-China Studies, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Sonja Ayeb-Karlsson
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK; United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security, Bonn, Germany; Institute for Risk and Disaster Reduction, University College London, London, UK; School of Global Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Sthembile Ngema
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Kathy Baisley
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Frank Tanser
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Lincoln Institute for Health, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Nothando Ngwenya
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Janet Seeley
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Global Health and Development Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Willem Hanekom
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kobus Herbst
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; DSI-MRC South African Population Research Infrastructure Network, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Collins C Iwuji
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.
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Pontiki G, Sarantaki A, Nikolaidis P, Lykeridou A. Factors Affecting Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence among HIV-Positive Pregnant Women in Greece: An Exploratory Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10040654. [PMID: 35455832 PMCID: PMC9028468 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10040654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a major public health problem globally. Each year, approximately 1.4 million women living with HIV get pregnant. This contemporary descriptive study investigates the degree of compliance of HIV-positive women-patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy. A sample of 200 treated HIV-positive pregnant women (mean age, 32.9 years; Greek nationality, 67.5%; poor educational level, 28.5%) was selected. The data collection occurred in three acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) reference centers in Athens, Greece, from November 2019 to September 2021. Patients’ median knowledge score was 50% (IQR: 38.9−61.1%), and their median attitude score was 4.2 (IQR: 3.6−4.4); 13.0% of participants did comply with ART treatment. Specifically, 7.0% of them failed to take their treatment twice when asked about their activities over the preceding 7 days, and 3.0% skipped it three times. Women of Greek nationality had significantly higher compliance with treatment (p < 0.001). Additionally, a higher compared to lower education level was significantly associated with greater compliance (p = 0.001), while women with a low level of social support had significantly lower compliance. Participants who had complied with ART had significantly higher knowledge and attitude scores (p = 0.027). Patient characteristics determine compliance with ART in HIV-positive pregnant women in Greece, while the availability and quality of health system services may modulate this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antigoni Sarantaki
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health & Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Egaleo, 122 43 Athens, Greece; (P.N.); (A.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2105387403
| | - Petros Nikolaidis
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health & Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Egaleo, 122 43 Athens, Greece; (P.N.); (A.L.)
| | - Aikaterini Lykeridou
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health & Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Egaleo, 122 43 Athens, Greece; (P.N.); (A.L.)
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Zhang X, Wang X, Wang H, He X, Wang X. Stigmatization and Social Support of Pregnant Women With HIV or Syphilis in Eastern China: A Mixed-Method Study. Front Public Health 2022; 10:764203. [PMID: 35359793 PMCID: PMC8961867 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.764203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Stigmatization and poor social support are challenges faced by individuals living with HIV or sexually transmitted disease, which can have a profound negative impact on their healthcare. Mother-to-child transmission of either HIV or syphilis can lead to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate stigmatization and social support of pregnant women with HIV or syphilis in eastern China. Methods This was an explanatory sequential mixed-method study conducted in Zhejiang province, China in 2019. Stigmatization, social support, and the associated factors toward HIV or syphilis were evaluated using questionnaires. The social support rating scale was used to evaluate social support, where a score <25% was defined as poor social support. A logistic regression model was used to explore the association between stigmatization and poor social support. Results A total of 448 women (HIV positive, N = 93; syphilis, N = 355) were recruited in this study. Higher stigmatization was observed in pregnant women with HIV compared to those with syphilis (53.76% vs. 24.36%, p < 0.001), and poorer social support was observed in women with HIV compared with those with syphilis (40.86% vs. 19.86%, p < 0.001), with significant distributions of the total social support scores (Z = −1.976, p = 0.048) and scores on objectivity (Z = −2.036, p = 0.042) and subjectivity (Z = −2.500, p = 0.012). Similar social support among HIV or syphilis pregnant women was observed in medical healthcare facilities. In multivariable logistic model analysis, stigmatization (ORadj = 2.927; 95%CI, 1.714–4.996; p < 0.001) and ethnic minority (ORadj = 2.373; 95%CI, 1.113–5.056; p = 0.025) were negatively associated with social support. Interestingly, employment status was associated with improved social support (ORadj = 0.345; 95%CI, 0.180–0.662; p = 0.001). Conclusion Stigmatization among pregnant women with HIV or syphilis remains high. We demonstrated that stigmatization was a significant predictor of low social support in pregnant women with HIV or syphilis. The support shown in medical facilities was similar toward pregnant women with HIV or syphilis. Implementation of stigmatization eradication and social support strategies targeting pregnant women with HIV or syphilis may therefore improve the dual elimination of mother-to-child transmission service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Zhang
- Department of Women's Health, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinmei He
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Women and Children Health Care Hospital of Quzhou, Quzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Department of Women's Health, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Women's Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xinyu Wang
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Ngandu NK, Lombard CJ, Mbira TE, Puren A, Waitt C, Prendergast AJ, Tylleskär T, Van de Perre P, Goga AE. HIV viral load non-suppression and associated factors among pregnant and postpartum women in rural northeastern South Africa: a cross-sectional survey. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058347. [PMID: 35273061 PMCID: PMC8915310 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to measure the prevalence of maternal HIV viral load (VL) non-suppression and assess associated factors, to evaluate progress towards United Nations-AIDS (UNAIDS) targets. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING The eight largest community health centres of Ehlanzeni, a rural district in northeast South Africa. PARTICIPANTS Pregnant women living with HIV (WLHIV) in their third trimester and postpartum WLHIV and their biological infants, recruited equally across all stages of the first 24 months post partum, were included. A sample of 612 mothers participated from a target of 1000. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was maternal VL (mVL) non-suppression (defined here as mVL >1000 copies/mL). We collected information on antiretroviral use, healthcare visits and sociodemographics through interviews and measured plasma mVL. Descriptive statistics, χ2 tests and multivariable logistic regression analysis were conducted. RESULTS All mothers (median age: 30 years) were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 24.9% were on ART ≤12 months. The prevalence of mVL non-suppression was 14.7% (95% CI: 11.3% to 19.0%), while 13.8% had low-level viraemia (50-1000 copies/mL). Most (68.9%) women had initiated breast feeding and 37.6% were currently breast feeding their infants. Being younger than 25 years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.6 (95% CI: 1.1 to 6.4)), on first-line ART (AOR: 2.3 (95% CI: 1.1 to 4.6)) and married/cohabiting (AOR: 1.9 (95% CI: 1.0 to 3.7)) were significantly associated with increased odds of mVL non-suppression. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of mVL ≤1000 copies/mL of 85.3% among pregnant and postpartum WLHIV and attending public healthcare centres in this rural district is below the 2020 90-90-90 and 2030 95-95-95 UNAIDS targets. Given that low-level viraemia may also increase the risk of vertical HIV transmission, we recommend strengthened implementation of the new guidelines which include better ART options, improved ART regimen switching and mVL monitoring schedules, and intensified psychosocial support for younger women, while exploring district-level complementary interventions, to sustain VLs below 50 copies/mL among all women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobubelo Kwanele Ngandu
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Carl J Lombard
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thandiwe Elsie Mbira
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Adrian Puren
- Centre for HIV and STI, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Catriona Waitt
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Andrew J Prendergast
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Philippe Van de Perre
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, University of Montpellier INSERM, Montpellier, France
- CHU, Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Etablissement Français du Sang, Antilles University, Paris, France
| | - Ameena Ebrahim Goga
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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Identifying barriers to ART initiation and adherence: An exploratory qualitative study on PMTCT in Zambia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262392. [PMID: 35025923 PMCID: PMC8757984 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Though antiretroviral therapy (ART) is widely available, HIV positive pregnant women in Zambia are less likely to start and remain on therapy throughout pregnancy and after delivery. This study sought to understand readiness to start ART among HIV pregnant women from the perspectives of both women and men in order to suggest more holistic programs to support women to continue life-long ART after delivery. Methods We conducted a qualitative study with HIV positive pregnant women before and after ART initiation, and men with female partners, to understand readiness to start lifelong ART. We conducted 28 in-depth interviews among women and 2 focus group discussions among male partners. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed in NVivo 12 using thematic analysis. Emerging themes from the data were organized using the social ecological framework. Results Men thought of their female partners as young and needing their supervision to initiate and stay on ART. Women agreed that disclosure and partner support were necessary preconditions to ART initiation and adherence and, expressed fear of divorce as a prominent barrier to disclosure. Maternal love and desire to look after one’s children instilled a sense of responsibility among women which motivated them to overcome individual, interpersonal and health system level barriers to initiation and adherence. Women preferred adherence strategies that were discrete, the effectiveness of which, depended on women’s intrinsic motivation. Conclusion The results support current policies in Zambia to encourage male engagement in ART care. To appeal to male partners, messaging on ART should be centered on emphasizing the importance of male involvement to ensure women remain engaged in ART care. Programs aimed at supporting postpartum ART adherence should design messages that appeal to both men’s role in couples’ joint decision-making and women’s maternal love as motivators for adherence.
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Etoori D, Kabudula CW, Wringe A, Rice B, Renju J, Gomez-Olive FX, Reniers G. Investigating clinic transfers among HIV patients considered lost to follow-up to improve understanding of the HIV care cascade: Findings from a cohort study in rural north-eastern South Africa. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000296. [PMID: 36962304 PMCID: PMC10022370 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Investigating clinical transfers of HIV patients is important for accurate estimates of retention and informing interventions to support patients. We investigate transfers for adults reported as lost to follow-up (LTFU) from eight HIV care facilities in the Agincourt health and demographic surveillance system (HDSS), South Africa. Using linked clinic and HDSS records, outcomes of adults more than 90 days late for their last scheduled clinic visit were determined through clinic and routine tracing record reviews, HDSS data, and supplementary tracing. Factors associated with transferring to another clinic were determined through Cox regression models. Transfers were graphically and geospatially visualised. Transfers were more common for women, patients living further from the clinic, and patients with higher baseline CD4 cell counts. Transfers to clinics within the HDSS were more likely to be undocumented and were significantly more likely for women pregnant at ART initiation. Transfers outside the HDSS clustered around economic hubs. Patients transferring to health facilities within the HDSS may be shopping for better care, whereas those who transfer out of the HDSS may be migrating for work. Treatment programmes should facilitate transfer processes for patients, ensure continuity of care among those migrating, and improve tracking of undocumented transfers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Etoori
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chodziwadziwa Whiteson Kabudula
- MRC/WITS Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Alison Wringe
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Brian Rice
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Renju
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Francesc Xavier Gomez-Olive
- MRC/WITS Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Georges Reniers
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- MRC/WITS Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Bao L, Li C, Li R, Yang S. Causal Structural Learning on MPHIA Individual Dataset. J Am Stat Assoc 2022; 117:1642-1655. [PMID: 36620488 PMCID: PMC9817037 DOI: 10.1080/01621459.2022.2077209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (PHIA) is an ongoing project that conducts nationally representative HIV-focused surveys for measuring national and regional progress toward UNAIDS' 90-90-90 targets, the primary strategy to end the HIV epidemic. We believe the PHIA survey offers a unique opportunity to better understand the key factors that drive the HIV epidemics in the most affected countries in sub-Saharan Africa. In this article, we propose a novel causal structural learning algorithm to discover important covariates and potential causal pathways for 90-90-90 targets. Existing constrained-based causal structural learning algorithms are quite aggressive in edge removal. The proposed algorithm preserves more information about important features and potential causal pathways. It is applied to the Malawi PHIA (MPHIA) data set and leads to interesting results. For example, it discovers age and condom usage to be important for female HIV awareness; the number of sexual partners to be important for male HIV awareness; and knowing the travel time to HIV care facilities leads to a higher chance of being treated for both females and males. We further compare and validate the proposed algorithm using BIC and using Monte Carlo simulations, and show that the proposed algorithm achieves improvement in true positive rates in important feature discovery over existing algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Bao
- Department of Statistics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Changcheng Li
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, P.R. China
| | - Runze Li
- Department of Statistics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Songshan Yang
- Institute of Statistics and Big Data, Renmin University of China, Beijing, P.R. China
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Orievulu K, Ayeb-Karlsson S, Ngwenya N, Ngema S, McGregor H, Adeagbo O, Siedner MJ, Hanekom W, Kniveton D, Seeley J, Iwuji C. Economic, social and demographic impacts of drought on treatment adherence among people living with HIV in rural South Africa: A qualitative analysis. CLIMATE RISK MANAGEMENT 2022; 36:100423. [PMID: 36923966 PMCID: PMC7614312 DOI: 10.1016/j.crm.2022.100423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The 2015 El Niño-triggered drought in Southern Africa caused widespread economic and livelihood disruption in South Africa, imposing multiple physical and health challenges for rural populations including people living with HIV (PLHIV). We examined the economic, social and demographic impacts of drought drawing on 27 in-depth interviews in two cohorts of PLHIV in Hlabisa, uMkhanyakude district, KwaZulu-Natal. Thematic analysis revealed how drought-enforced soil water depletion, dried-up rivers, and dams culminated in a continuum of events such as loss of livestock, reduced agricultural production, and insufficient access to water and food which was understood to indirectly have a negative impact on HIV treatment adherence. This was mediated through disruptions in incomes, livelihoods and food systems, increased risk to general health, forced mobility and exacerbation of contextual vulnerabilities linked to poverty and unemployment. The systems approach, drawn from interview themes, hypothesises the complex pathways of plausible networks of impacts from drought through varying socioeconomic factors, exacerbating longstanding contextual precarity, and ultimately challenging HIV care utilisation. Understanding the multidimensional relationships between climate change, especially drought, and poor HIV care outcomes through the prism of contextual vulnerabilities is vital for shaping policy interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kingsley Orievulu
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- Centre for Africa-China Studies, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sonja Ayeb-Karlsson
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security, Bonn, Germany
- Institute for Risk and Disaster Reduction, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sthembile Ngema
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | | | - Oluwafemi Adeagbo
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Department of Health Promotion, Education & Behaviour, University of South Carolina, USA
- Department of Sociology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mark J. Siedner
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Willem Hanekom
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Janet Seeley
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Global Health and Development Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Collins Iwuji
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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Orievulu KS, Iwuji CC. Institutional Responses to Drought in a High HIV Prevalence Setting in Rural South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:434. [PMID: 35010691 PMCID: PMC8744984 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In 2015, South Africa experienced one of the worst (El Niño-induced) droughts in 35 years. This affected economic activities, individual and community livelihoods and wellbeing especially in rural communities in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Drought's direct and indirect impacts on public health require urgent institutional responses, especially in South Africa's stride to eliminate HIV as a public health threat by 2030 in line with the UNAIDS goals. This paper draws on qualitative data from interviews and policy documents to discuss how the devastating effect of the 2015 drought experience in the rural Hlabisa sub-district of uMkhanyakude, a high HIV prevalence area, imposes an imperative for more proactive institutional responses to drought and other climate-related events capable of derailing progress made in South Africa's HIV/AIDS response. We found that drought had a negative impact on individual and community livelihoods and made it more difficult for people living with HIV to consistently engage with care due to economic losses from deaths of livestock, crop failure, food insecurity, time spent in search of appropriate water sources and forced relocations. It also affected government institutions and their interventions. Interviewed participants' reflections on drought-related challenges, especially those related to institutional and coordination challenges, showed that although current policy frameworks are robust, their implementation has been stalled due to complex reporting systems, and inadequate interdepartmental collaboration and information sharing. We thus argue that to address the gaps in the institutional responses, there is a need for more inclusive systems of drought-relief implementation, in which government departments, especially at the provincial and district levels, work with national institutions to better share data/information about drought-risks in order to improve preparedness and implementation of effective mitigation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kingsley S. Orievulu
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, Mtubatuba 3935, South Africa;
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
- Centre for Africa-China Studies, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2006, South Africa
| | - Collins C. Iwuji
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, Mtubatuba 3935, South Africa;
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
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Williams D, MacKellar D, Dlamini M, Byrd J, Dube L, Mndzebele P, Mazibuko S, Ao T, Pathmanathan I, Beyer A, Ryan C. HIV testing and ART initiation among partners, family members, and high-risk associates of index clients participating in the CommLink linkage case management program, Eswatini, 2016-2018. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261605. [PMID: 34928998 PMCID: PMC8687549 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To help diagnose and initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥95% of all persons living with HIV (PLHIV), the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends offering HIV testing to biological children, and sexual and needle-sharing partners of all PLHIV (index-client testing, ICT). Many index clients, however, do not identify or have contactable partners, and often substantially fewer than 95% of HIV-positive partners initiate ART soon after index testing. To help improve early HIV diagnosis and ART initiation in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), we implemented a community-based HIV testing and peer-delivered, linkage case management program (CommLink) that provided ICT as part of a comprehensive package of WHO recommended linkage services. CommLink was implemented June 2015 -March 2017 (Phase I), and April 2017 -September 2018 (Phase II). In addition to biological children and partners, HIV testing was offered to adult family members (Phases I and II) and high-risk associates including friends and acquaintances (Phase II) of CommLink index clients. Compared with Phase I, in Phase II proportionally more CommLink clients disclosed their HIV-infection status to a partner or family member [94% (562/598) vs. 75% (486/652)], and had ≥1 partners, family members, or high-risk associates (contacts) tested through CommLink [41% (245/598) vs. 18% (117/652)]. Of 537 contacts tested, 253 (47%) were HIV-positive and not currently in HIV care, including 17% (17/100) of family members aged <15 years, 42% (78/187) of non-partner family members aged ≥15 years, 60% (73/121) of sexual partners, and 66% (85/129) of high-risk associates. Among 210 HIV-positive contacts aged ≥15 years who participated in CommLink, nearly all received recommended linkage services including treatment navigation (95%), weekly telephone follow-up (93%), and ≥3 counseling sessions (94%); peer counselors resolved 76% (306/404) of identified barriers to care (e.g., perceived wellness); and 200 (95%) initiated ART at a healthcare facility, of whom 196 (98%) received at least one antiretroviral refill before case-management services ended. To help countries achieve ≥90% ART coverage among all PLHIV, expanding ICT for adult family members and high-risk associates of index clients, and providing peer-delivered linkage case management for all identified PLHIV, should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Williams
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Duncan MacKellar
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Makhosazana Dlamini
- Eswatini Country Program, Population Services International, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Johnita Byrd
- ICF International, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Lenhle Dube
- National AIDS Programme, Eswatini Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Phumzile Mndzebele
- Eswatini Country Office, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Sikhathele Mazibuko
- Eswatini Country Office, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Trong Ao
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Ishani Pathmanathan
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Alysha Beyer
- Abt Associates Inc, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Caroline Ryan
- Eswatini Country Office, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mbabane, Eswatini
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Hempel S, Ferguson L, Bolshakova M, Yagyu S, Fu N, Motala A, Gruskin S. Frameworks, measures, and interventions for HIV-related internalised stigma and stigma in healthcare and laws and policies: systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e053608. [PMID: 34887280 PMCID: PMC8663079 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is strong global commitment to eliminate HIV-related stigma. Wide variation exists in frameworks and measures, and many strategies to prevent, reduce or mitigate stigma have been proposed but critical factors determining success or failure remain elusive. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Building on existing knowledge syntheses, we designed a systematic review to identify frameworks, measures and intervention evaluations aiming to address internalised stigma, stigma and discrimination in healthcare, and stigma and discrimination at the legal or policy level. The review addresses four key questions (KQ): KQ1: Which conceptual frameworks have been proposed to assess internal stigma, stigma and discrimination experienced in healthcare settings, and stigma and discrimination entrenched in national laws and policies? KQ2: Which measures of stigma have been proposed and what are their descriptive properties? KQ3: Which interventions have been evaluated that aimed to reduce these types of stigma and discrimination or mitigate their adverse effects and what are the effectiveness and unintended consequences? KQ4: What common 'critical factors for success or failure' can be identified across interventions that have been evaluated? We will search PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Universal Human Rights Index, HeinOnline, PAIS, HIV Legal Network, CDSR, Campbell Collaboration, PROSPERO and Open Science Framework. Critical appraisal will assess the source, processes and consensus finding for frameworks; COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments criteria for measures; and risk of bias for interventions. Quality of evidence grading will apply . A gap analysis will provide targeted recommendations for future research. We will establish a compendium of frameworks, a comprehensive catalogue of available measures, and a synthesis of intervention characteristics to advance the science of HIV-related stigma. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021249348.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Hempel
- Southern California Evidence Review Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Laura Ferguson
- Institute on Inequalities in Global Health, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Maria Bolshakova
- Southern California Evidence Review Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sachi Yagyu
- Southern California Evidence Review Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ning Fu
- Department of Economics, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai, China
| | - Aneesa Motala
- Southern California Evidence Review Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sofia Gruskin
- Institute on Inequalities in Global Health, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Kiirya Y, Musoke P, Adobea Odei Obeng-Amoako G, Kalyango J. Loss to follow up after pregnancy among mothers enrolled on the option B+ program in Uganda. PUBLIC HEALTH IN PRACTICE 2021; 2:100085. [PMID: 36101573 PMCID: PMC9461603 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2021.100085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Option-B+ programs in Uganda have reported high levels of loss to follow up (LTFU) after cessation of breastfeeding, and this remains unknown beyond this period. In this study, we assessed the incidence and factors associated with LTFU two to four years after delivery among Option-B+ mothers. Study design Retrospective cohort. Methods We reviewed files of 452 mothers who enrolled on Option-B+ between January 1st, 2013 and December 31st, 2014 at Kisenyi Health Centre IV in Kampala district. We assessed factors associated with LTFU using Cox proportional hazards regression. We also explored the reasons for LTFU using three focus group discussions, five in-depth and three key informant interviews. Results Of the 452 mothers, 131(29%) were LTFU after delivery. The incidence of LTFU after delivery was 17/1000 person months (95% CI, 14–30/1000) with a median follow up of 32 months. The risk of LTFU was higher among mothers who started ART on the day they tested HIV positive (aHR = 1.66, 95% CI; 1.25–2.20, p-value< 0.001). Reasons for LFTU included transport costs, stigma, poor human resource policies and non-disclosure. Conclusion LTFU after delivery among Option-B+ mothers is higher than the global target of 15%. ART initiation on the day a mother tests positive increases the risk of LTFU. The major reasons for LTFU were stigma and non-disclosure. To reduce the risk of LTFU, we recommend approaches that encourage disclosure to sexual partners and ongoing specific support to mothers who are initiated on ART-the day of positive test. Loss to follow up (LTFU) among Option-B+ mothers after delivery is high. ART initiation on the day a mother tests positive increases the risk of LTFU. Non-disclosure is a major contributor to LTFU among Option-B+ mothers.
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