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Msosa TC, Swai I, Aarnoutse R, Rinke de Wit TF, Ngowi K, Msefula C, Nliwasa M, Boer MSD. The Effect of Real-Time Medication Monitoring-Based Digital Adherence Tools on Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy and Viral Suppression in People Living With HIV: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:411-420. [PMID: 38985562 PMCID: PMC11236270 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003449] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Universal antiretroviral therapy (ART) has led to improved treatment outcomes in persons living with HIV. Adherence to ART is required to achieve viral suppression. Real-time medication monitoring (RTMM)-based digital adherence tools (DATs) could be effective in improving ART adherence and viral suppression in persons living with HIV. OBJECTIVES The primary and secondary objectives of this review were to assess the effect of RTMM-based DATs on improving ART adherence and viral load suppression. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Global Health for publications published through October 11, 2022. Narrative synthesis and random effects meta-analyses were conducted to synthesize the results. RESULTS Of 638 papers identified, 8 were included. Six studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and 2 were cohort studies. Two studies, an RCT in China (mean adherence: 96.2% vs 89.1%) and a crossover cohort study in Uganda (mean adherence: 84% vs 93%), demonstrated improved ART adherence. No studies demonstrated improved viral suppression. In the meta-analyses, we estimated that RTMM-based digital adherence tools had a statistically insignificant small positive effect on ART adherence and viral suppression with a standardized mean difference of 0.1922 [95% CI: -0.0268 to 0.4112, P-value: 0.0854] and viral suppression with an odds ratio of 1.3148 [95% CI: 0.9199 to 1.8791, P-value: 0.1331]. CONCLUSIONS Our meta-analyses found that RTMM-based DATs did not have a significant effect on ART adherence and viral suppression. However, due to few published studies available, heterogeneity of target populations, intervention designs, and adherence measurement instruments, more data are required to provide conclusive evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takondwa Charles Msosa
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Iraseni Swai
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Rob Aarnoutse
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; and
| | - Tobias F. Rinke de Wit
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kennedy Ngowi
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Chisomo Msefula
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Marriott Nliwasa
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Marion Sumari-de Boer
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
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Wasilwa A, Amadi E, Ramadhani HO, Lascko T, Ndaga A, Makokha V, Abuya K, Oneya D, Nyabiage L, Ng'eno C. Impact of enhanced adherence counselling on viral re-suppression among adolescents and young persons with persistent viremia. AIDS 2024; 38:1468-1475. [PMID: 38819841 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Kenya ART guidelines recommend three sessions of enhanced adherence counselling (EAC) following detectable viral load. The objective of this study was to assess completion of EAC sessions and factors associated with viral re-suppression amongst adolescents and young persons (AYPs) with persistent viremia in Western Kenya. METHODS A retrospective analysis of routinely collected data abstracted from viral load registers was done. AYP with persistent viremia (consecutive viral load ≥1000 copies/ml) between October 2017 to September 2019 were followed for 12 months; those with more than one follow-up viral load results were analyzed. EAC was satisfactory if at least three sessions attended, barriers identified and addressed. Morisky scores 0 and at least 1 indicated optimal and sub-optimal adherence, respectively. Logistic regression models were used to assess predictors of viral load suppression (VLS). RESULTS Of 124 AYPs with persistent viremia, 118 (95.2%) had documented follow-up viral load results and 119 (96%) completed three EAC sessions. Overall, 55 (47%) clients re-suppressed during the study period. AYPs who had satisfactory EAC sessions had higher odds of achieving VLS [odds ratio (OR) = 3.7, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.6-8.1]. Similarly, AYPs with an optimal adherence had eight times (OR = 8.1, 95% CI: 3.5-18.5) higher odds of achieving VLS, and those who were suppressed at 6 months post-ART initiation had higher odds of achieving VLS at 12-months (OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.1-5.8). CONCLUSION Satisfactory EAC sessions and optimal ART adherence was strongly associated with viral re-suppression among AYPs with persistent viremia. Continued support to EAC intervention is critical to improve treatment outcome among AYP living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Wasilwa
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (CIHEB)-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Emmanuel Amadi
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (CIHEB)-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Habib O Ramadhani
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (CIHEB) global, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Taylor Lascko
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (CIHEB) global, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Angela Ndaga
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (CIHEB)-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Violet Makokha
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (CIHEB), MGIC - an affiliate of University of Maryland, Baltimore, Nairobi
| | | | | | - Lennah Nyabiage
- Division of Global HIV&TB (DGHT), U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Caroline Ng'eno
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity (CIHEB), MGIC - an affiliate of University of Maryland, Baltimore, Nairobi
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Munyayi FK, van Wyk B. Health System Responses to Address Treatment Gaps of Unsuppressed Adolescents on HIV Treatment in Public Primary Health Care Facilities in Windhoek, Namibia. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2024; 16:259-273. [PMID: 39006217 PMCID: PMC11246627 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s459124] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) face unique challenges that result in persistent gaps in achieving and maintaining suppressed viral load. Although effective evidence-based interventions to address treatment gaps in adolescents are readily available, health systems in resource-constrained, high HIV prevalence settings are challenged to implement them to achieve epidemic control. Here, we describe the health system responses to address the treatment gap of unsuppressed ALHIV on antiretroviral therapy in Windhoek, Namibia. Methods We conducted a qualitative descriptive and exploratory study in Windhoek between June and October 2023. Nineteen purposively selected key informants, ranging from pediatric HIV program managers to healthcare providers, were interviewed. In-depth interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were uploaded to ATLAS.ti and subjected to thematic analysis. Results The four main themes elucidated challenges related to adherence and retention as well as health system responses in the form of interventions and support programs. The predominant adherence and retention challenges faced by ALHIV were mental health issues, behavioral and medication-related challenges, and inadequate care and social support. The health system responses to the identified challenges included providing psychosocial support, peer support, optimization of treatment and care, and the utilization of effective service delivery models. Key health system support elements identified included adequately capacitated human resources, efficient medication supply chain systems, creating and maintaining an enabling environment for optimum care, and robust monitoring systems as essential to program success. Conclusion The health system responses to address the remaining treatment gaps of unsuppressed ALHIV in Windhoek are quite varied and, although evidence-based, appear to be siloed. We recommend harmonized, multifaceted guidance, integrating psychosocial, treatment, care, and peer-led support, and strengthening client-centred differentiated service delivery models for unsuppressed adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farai Kevin Munyayi
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brian van Wyk
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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Masika LV, Mboya IB, Maro RA, Mtesha B, Mtoro MJ, Ngowi K, Mahande MJ, Sumari-de Boer IM. Forgetting to Take Medication, Treatment Adherence and Their Relationship with Viral Load Suppression Among People Living with HIV in the Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2024; 16:245-257. [PMID: 38911143 PMCID: PMC11192192 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s452875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is crucial for virological suppression and positive treatment outcomes among people living with HIV (PLHIV), but remains a challenge in ensuring patients achieve and sustain viral load suppression. Despite the recommended use of digital tools medications uptake reminders, the contribution of forgetting to take medication is unknown. This study investigated the contribution of forgetting to take medication on the total missed medication and its effects on detectable viral load (VL). Methods This mixed-method research was conducted among children, adolescents, pregnant, and breastfeeding women living with HIV on ART in northern Tanzania. Forgetting to take medication constituted reporting to have missed medication due to forgetfulness. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to estimate the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) to determine the contribution of forgetting medication intakes on total missed medication and other factors associated with having a detectable VL. Results Of 427 respondents, 33.3% were children, 33.4% adolescents, and 33.3% pregnant and breastfeeding women, whose median age (interquartile range) was 9 (7-12), 18 (16-18), and 31 (27-36) years, respectively. Ninety-two (22.3%) reported missing medication over the past month, of which 72 (17.9%) was due to forgetting. Forgetting to take medication (AOR: 1.75 95% CI: 1.01-3.06) and being on second-line regimen (AOR: 2.89 95% CI: 1.50-5.55) increased the chances of a detectable VL, while females had lower chances of detectable VL (AOR: 0.62 95% CI: 0.41-0.98). The themes on the reasons for forgetting to take medication from qualitative results included being busy with work and the importance of reminders. Conclusion Forgetting to take medication is common among PLHIV and an important predictor of a detectable VL. This calls for the use of automated short message services (SMS) reminders or Digital Adherence Tools with reminders to improve and promote good ART adherence among PLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyidia V Masika
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
- Data management Unit, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Innocent B Mboya
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | | | - Benson Mtesha
- Data management Unit, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Mtoro J Mtoro
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Kennedy Ngowi
- Data management Unit, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Michael Johnson Mahande
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
- Management and Development for Health, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - I Marion Sumari-de Boer
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
- Data management Unit, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- Amsterdam Institute of Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Mushy SE, Mtisi E, Mkawe S, Mboggo E, Ndega J, Yahya-Malima KI, Kamugunya D, Kilimba ES, Mlay BS, Muya A, Ngalesoni F. Barriers to viral load suppression among adolescents living with HIV on anti-retroviral therapy: a retrospective study in Tanga, Tanzania. AIDS Res Ther 2024; 21:35. [PMID: 38778318 PMCID: PMC11112887 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-024-00622-7] [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] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the decreased incidence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Tanzania, the number of adolescents living with HIV is increasing. This study aimed to describe factors independently associated with viral load non-suppression among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) on ART in the Tanga region. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of routinely collected data from ALHIV on ART from October 2018 to April 2022. We extracted data from the Care and Treatment Clinics form number 2 (CTC2) database that included age, sex, BMI, World Health Organization HIV clinical disease stage, marital status, ART duration, viral load suppression, facility level, and Dolutegravir (DTG)-based regimen. We did descriptive analysis using frequencies to describe the study participants' socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. The Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to identify factors associated with viral load non-suppression (VLS). Viral load non-suppression was defined as viral load ≥ 1000 copies/ml. A total of 4735 ALHIV on ART were extracted from CTC2, then 2485 were excluded (2186 missed viral load results, 246 were lost to follow-up, and 53 deaths). RESULTS 2250 ALHIV on ART were tested for viral load, of whom 2216 (98.62%) adolescents were on first-line ART, and 2024 (89.96%) participants were virally suppressed, while 226 (10.04%) were virally non-suppressed. In addition, 2131 (94.71%) of participants were using a DTG-based regimen; of them, 1969 (92.40%) were virally suppressed. Not using a DTG-based regimen (HR: 9.36, 95% CI 3.41-15.31) and dispensary facility level (HR: 3.61, 95% CI 1.44-7.03) were independently associated with increased hazard for viral load non-suppression. In addition, adolescents aged between 15 and 19 years are less likely to be virally suppressed (HR: 0.55, 95% CI 0.30-0.99). CONCLUSIONS The dispensary facility level and not using a DTG-based regimen were significantly associated with viral load non-suppression. HIV intervention strategies should ensure a DTG-based regimen utilization in all adolescents living with HIV, and techniques used by higher-level health facilities should be disseminated to lower-level facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Expeditho Mtisi
- Dar Es Salaam Institute of Technology, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Simon Mkawe
- Amref Health Africa, Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Eric Mboggo
- Amref Health Africa, Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - John Ndega
- Amref Health Africa, Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Denice Kamugunya
- Center of Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Boniface S Mlay
- National Aids, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Hepatitis Control Progralmme, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Aisa Muya
- Amref Health Africa, Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Frida Ngalesoni
- Amref Health Africa, Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Belete MB, Bitew A, Mulatu K. Viral load suppression and its predictor among HIV seropositive people who receive enhanced adherence counseling at public health institutions in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia. Retrospective follow-up study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303243. [PMID: 38739646 PMCID: PMC11090359 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303243] [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: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For those HIV seropositive people with high viral loads, the World Health Organization recommends more counseling before changing ART regimens. A high viral load can lead to increased HIV transmission and lower survival rates. Clients with viral loads above 1000 copies/mL should receive enhanced adherence counseling for 3-6 months before switching. Despite enhanced adherence counseling programs, most countries struggle with viral load suppression. Little is known about viral load suppression in Ethiopia and the research area after counseling. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess viral load suppression and its predictors among HIV-positive individuals receiving enhanced adherence counseling in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia, in 2022. METHODS An institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted among randomly selected 546 clients on Enhanced Adherence Counseling at public health facilities in Bahir Dar city. The Epicollect5 mobile application was used to collect the data, which was then exported to Stata version 14 for analysis. A Log-Binomial regression model was fitted for each explanatory variable. Variables having a p-value <0.25 in bivariate analysis were entered into a multivariable Log-Binomial regression model. Finally, an adjusted risk ratio with a 95% confidence interval and a p-value <0.05 was used to measure the strength of the prediction. RESULTS Following enhanced adherence counseling, 312 (57.1%) people had their viral load suppressed. Absence of recurrent OI (ARR 1.40; CI 1.03-1.91), EAC stay less than 3 months (ARR 1.54; CI 1.19-1.99), EAC stay 3-6 months (ARR 1.38; CI 1.12-1.69), once-daily ARV dose regimen (ARR 1.28; CI 1.03-1.58), baseline viral load of 2879.00 copies/ml (ARR 1.30, CI 1.06-1.60), being orthodox Tewahido Christian (ARR 0.37; CI 0.18-0.75) were significant predictors of viral load suppression after Enhanced Adherence Counseling. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION Most importantly, this study found that most people had suppressed viral loads after receiving enhanced adherence counseling. Significant predictors of viral load suppression included recurrent OI, length of stay on EAC, daily ARV dosing regimen, baseline viral load, and religion. Clients with a high baseline viral load and those who experience recurring opportunistic infections should get extra care during EAC sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minyichil Birhanu Belete
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Abebayehu Bitew
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Kebadnew Mulatu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
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Desalegn M, Shitemaw T, Tesfaye M, Getahun GK. Factors Affecting Virological Failure in Children Receiving First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy in Ethiopian Healthcare Facilities: A Retrospective Analysis. Pediatric Health Med Ther 2024; 15:171-180. [PMID: 38765900 PMCID: PMC11100487 DOI: 10.2147/phmt.s452150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The causes of virological failure are poorly recognized and investigated. This study aimed to identify determinant factors of viral failure in children taking first-line ART at a randomly selected federal hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods A facility-based unmatched case-control study was carried out from May 10, 2022, to July 20, 2022, G.C. among HIV-infected children on first-line antiretroviral therapy. There were 209 HIV-positive youngsters in the study's overall sample size, comprising 53 cases and 156 controls. Data was gathered by chart review using an organized checklist in English. The data were entered using Epi-data 4.2 and exported into SPSS version 24 for analysis. The relationship between each explanatory variable and the result variable was described using both bivariate and multivariate analysis. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals was conducted, and a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Being male (AOR= 4.504; 95% CI: 1.498, 13.539), duration on ART exceeding 47 months (AOR=40.6; 95% CI:9.571,172.222), fair and poor drug adherence (AOR=16.348; 95% CI:4.690,56.990), missed clinical appointments (AOR = 3.177; 95% CI: 1.100-9.174), and baseline WHO clinical stage 4 disease (AOR = 6.852; 95% CI: 1.540-30.49) were associated with an increased risk of virological failure. Conversely, a history of drug change and a CD4 count ranging from 250 to 500 cells/mm3 were significantly protective factors (AOR = 0.071; 95% CI: 0.024-0.214 and AOR=0.118; 95% CI: 0.030, 0.464, respectively). Conclusion Being male, duration on ART >47 months, fair and poor adherence, missed clinical appointments, and baseline WHO Stage 4 are factors that increase the odds of virological failure. History of ART Drug change and a CD4 count between 250 and 500 cells/mm3 are factors that decrease the odds of virological failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitiku Desalegn
- Department of Anesthesia, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mesfin Tesfaye
- Department of Public Health, Menelik II Medical and Health Science College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Genanew Kassie Getahun
- Department of Public Health, Menelik II Medical and Health Science College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Nanyeenya N, Nakanjako D, Makumbi F, Nakigozi G, Nalugoda F, Kigozi G, Nasuuna E, Kibira SPS, Nabadda S, Kiyaga C, Huzaifah M, Kiwanuka N. Effectiveness of intensive adherence counselling in achieving an undetectable viral load among people on antiretroviral therapy with low-level viraemia in Uganda. HIV Med 2024; 25:245-253. [PMID: 37853605 PMCID: PMC11047222 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13568] [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: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uganda was using a threshold of 1000 copies/mL to determine viral non-suppression for antiretroviral therapy monitoring among people living with HIV, prior to this study. It was not clear whether people living with HIV with low-level viraemia (LLV, ≥50 to <1000 copies/mL) would benefit from intensive adherence counselling (IAC). The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of IAC among people living with HIV, receiving antiretroviral therapy, and with LLV in Uganda, to guide key policy decisions in HIV care, including the review of the viral load (VL) testing algorithm. METHODS This cluster-randomized clinical trial comprised adults from eight HIV clinics who were living with HIV, receiving ART, and had recent VL results indicating LLV (tested from July 2022 to October 2022). Participants in the intervention arm clinics received three once-monthly sessions of IAC, and those in the comparison non-intervention arm clinics received the standard of care. At the end of the study, all participants were re-tested for VL to determine the proportions of those who then had an undetectable VL (<50 copies/mL). We assessed the statistical association between cross-tabulated variables using Fisher's exact test and then modified Poisson regression. RESULTS A total of 136 participants were enrolled into the study at eight HIV clinics. All 68 participants in the intervention arm completed all IAC sessions. Only one participant in the non-intervention arm was lost to follow-up. The average follow-up time was 3.7 months (standard deviation [SD] 0.2) and 3.5 months (SD 0.1) in the intervention and non-intervention arms, respectively. In total, 59 (43.7%) of 135 people living with HIV achieved an undetectable VL during the study follow-up period. The effect of IAC on attaining an undetectable VL among people with LLV was nearly twice as high in the intervention arm (57.4%) than in the non-intervention arm (29.9%): adjusted risk ratio 1.9 (95% confidence interval 1.0-3.5), p = 0.037. CONCLUSION IAC doubled the likelihood of an undetectable VL among people living with HIV with LLV. Therefore, IAC has been instituted as an intervention to manage people living with HIV with LLV in Uganda, and this should also be adopted in other Sub-Saharan African countries with similar settings. CLINICALTRIALS GOV IDENTIFIER NCT05514418.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholus Nanyeenya
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Ministry of Health Central Public Health Laboratories, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Damalie Nakanjako
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fredrick Makumbi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Esther Nasuuna
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Simon P S Kibira
- Department of Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Susan Nabadda
- Ministry of Health Central Public Health Laboratories, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Kiyaga
- Ministry of Health Central Public Health Laboratories, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mutyaba Huzaifah
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noah Kiwanuka
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Melis T, Sahle T, Haile K, Timerga A, Zewdie A, Wegu Y, Zepire K, Bedewi J. Providing anti-retroviral treatment did not achieve the ambition of 'Joint united nations program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) among HIV positive patient in Ethiopia': a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 17:2290672. [PMID: 38234997 PMCID: PMC10793635 DOI: 10.1080/20523211.2023.2290672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) has great importance in reducing viral load. Though a global effort was made to suppress viral load, the level of viral load suppression among ART patients is still high in Ethiopia. Objective This study aims to assess the magnitude and contributing factors for viral load suppression among patients attending ART clinics in Ethiopia. Methods The articles were searched using different databases using the guideline of reporting systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA). A random effect model was used to ascertain the pooled prevalence of viral load suppression in Ethiopia using STATA 14 software. Results The pooled prevalence of suppressed viral load was 75.25% (95% CI: 68.61-81.89). Having good adherence (OR: 2.71, 95% CI 2.27, 3.15), baseline CD4 count (OR: 1.74, 95% CI 1.53, 1.96), and being female (OR: 1.41, 95% CI 1.04, 1.79) were determinants of pooled estimates of suppressed viral load. Conclusion The pooled prevalence of suppressed viral load was 75% which is lower than the targeted level by the sustainable development goal (SDG) 2020, which was 90%. Therefore, the stakeholders should be focused on the existing strategies to decrease viral load among ART patients. They should work to adhere to patients for ART treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamirat Melis
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Sahle
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Kassahun Haile
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Timerga
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Zewdie
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Yohannes Wegu
- Kule Refugee Camp, Gambela health offices, Southwest, Ethiopia
| | - Kebebush Zepire
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Jemal Bedewi
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
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Izudi J, Castelnuovo B, King R, Cattamanchi A. Risk factors for unsuppressed viral load after intensive adherence counseling among HIV infected persons in Kampala, Uganda: a nested case-control study. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:90. [PMID: 38110982 PMCID: PMC10729480 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00583-3] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intensive adherence counseling (IAC) is the global standard of care for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) who have unsuppressed VL after ≥ 6 months of first-line anti-retroviral therapy (ART). We investigated whether the number of IAC sessions is associated with suppressed VL among PLHIV in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS We conducted a nested case-control study among PLHIV with unsuppressed VL after ≥ 3 IAC sessions (cases) and a 2:1 random sample of PLHIV with suppressed VL after ≥ 3 IAC sessions (controls). Unsuppressed VL was defined as VL ≥ 1000 copies/ml. We performed multivariable logistic regression to identify factors that differed significantly between cases and controls. RESULTS Demographic and clinical characteristics were similar among the 16 cases and 32 controls including mean age, sex, baseline CD4 count, VL before IAC, and WHO clinical stage. Only the number of IAC sessions differed significantly between cases and controls in unadjusted (p = 0.012) and adjusted (p = 0.016) analyses. Each unit increase in IAC session was associated with unsuppressed VL (Adjusted odds ratio 5.09; 95% CI 1.35-19.10). CONCLUSIONS VL remained unsuppressed despite increasing IAC frequency. The fidelity to standardized IAC protocol besides drug resistance testing among PLHIV with unsuppressed VL before IAC commencement should be examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Izudi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.
- University of California Global Health Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rachel King
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Adithya Cattamanchi
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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11
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Ahmed CV, Doyle R, Gallagher D, Imoohi O, Ofoegbu U, Wright R, Yore MA, Brooks MJ, Flores DD, Lowenthal ED, Rice BM, Buttenheim AM. A Systematic Review of Peer Support Interventions for Adolescents Living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:535-559. [PMID: 37956242 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0094] [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: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite widespread availability of life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in sub-Saharan Africa, AIDS remains one of the leading causes of death among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa. The purpose of this article was to review the state of the science regarding interventions to improve ART adherence and/or HIV care retention among ALHIV throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The primary aim of this review was to describe the impact of peer support interventions in improving treatment outcomes (i.e., ART adherence and retention in HIV care) among ALHIV in sub-Saharan Africa. The secondary aim of this review was to determine whether these interventions may be efficacious at improving mental health outcomes. We identified 27 articles that met the eligibility criteria for our review, and categorized each article based on the type of peer support provided to ALHIV-individualized peer support, group-based support, and individualized plus group-based support. Results regarding the efficacy of these interventions are mixed and most of the studies included were deemed moderate in methodological quality. Although studies evaluating group-based peer support interventions were the most common, most of these studies were not associated with retention, adherence, or mental health outcomes. More robust, fully powered studies are needed to strengthen our knowledge base regarding peer support for ALHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charisse V Ahmed
- National Clinician Scholars Program, Division of General Internal Medicine & Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Rebecca Doyle
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Darby Gallagher
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Olore Imoohi
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ugochi Ofoegbu
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Robyn Wright
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mackensie A Yore
- VA Los Angeles and UCLA National Clinician Scholars Program, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System HSR&D Center of Innovation, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Merrian J Brooks
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Botswana UPENN Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Elizabeth D Lowenthal
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bridgette M Rice
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alison M Buttenheim
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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12
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Senteza I, Castelnuovo B, Mukunya D, Makumbi F. Virological non-suppression among adult males attending HIV care services in the fishing communities in Bulisa district, Uganda. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293057. [PMID: 37856568 PMCID: PMC10586650 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virological non-suppression is a critical factor in driving HIV transmission rates, yet there is limited data available on the determinants of this phenomenon, particularly in fishing communities where the incidence of HIV is disproportionately high. We aimed to determine the prevalence and determinants of virological non-suppression among adult males (≥15 years) attending HIV care services in the fishing communities of Bulisa district. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study among all adult males (≥15 years) living with HIV who were resident within the fishing communities, and in care for atleast 6 months at the six health facilities offering HIV services in the fishing communities in Bulisa district. To obtain data on patient and health facility characteristics, we reviewed patients' records and conducted face-to-face interviews with the participants. We conducted descriptive and regression analyses using modified Poisson regression, accounting for data correlation of observation at the facility level to obtain prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% confidence intervals in Stata version 14.0. RESULTS 413 participants were studied and 379 (91.8%) were interviewed. The participant's average age (SD) was 40 (10.7) years and 70.5% (267/379) were engaged in the fishing business. The prevalence of virological non-suppression was 88/413-21.3% (95% CI: 18%-26%). Factors associated with higher odds of virological non-suppression included: Age 26-50 years (adj.PR = 1.53, 95%CI: 1.11-2.08) and 15-25 years (adj.PR = 2.99, 95%CI: 1.27-7.05) compared to age above 50 years; unemployment (adj.PR = 1.28, 95%CI: 1.10-1.49); hazardous use of alcohol (adj.PR = 1.34, 95%CI: 1.10-1.62); non-mobility between fish landing sites (adj.PR = 1.37, 95%CI: 1.003-1.87); distant HIV treatment services (adj.PR = 1.37, 95%CI: 1.11-1.69) and TB diagnosis (adj.PR = 1.87, 95%CI: 1.33-2.64). CONCLUSION Virological non-suppression among people living with HIV in fishing communities along the shores of Lake Albert is alarmingly high, exceeding the UNAIDS threshold of 10% by two-fold. Several key determinants were identified, including hazardous alcohol use, unemployment, and access barriers to HIV treatment services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignatius Senteza
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Mukunya
- Department of Community and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University, Busitema, Uganda
| | - Fredrick Makumbi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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13
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Swai IU, ten Bergen LL, Mtenga A, Maro R, Ngowi K, Mtesha B, Lekashingo N, Msosa T, Rinke de Wit TF, Aarnoutse R, Sumari-de Boer M. Developing contents for a digital adherence tool: A formative mixed-methods study among children and adolescents living with HIV in Tanzania. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000232. [PMID: 37851616 PMCID: PMC10584100 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Optimal adherence (>95%) to antiretroviral treatment (ART) remains a challenge among children and adolescents living with HIV (CALHIV). Digital adherence tools (DAT) with reminder cues have proven feasible among adult people living with HIV (PLHIV), with some concerns about the risk of HIV status disclosure. We aimed to assess the needs, contents and acceptability of an SMS-based DAT among CALHIV. We first conducted a survey to understand potential barriers to using DAT among CALHIV, then tested the DAT intervention among purposively selected participants. The DAT intervention included using the Wisepill device, receiving daily reminder SMS and receiving adherence reports on how they had taken medication in the past month. The content of the reminder SMS differed over time from asking if the medication was taken to a more neutral SMS like "take care". Afterwards, we conducted exit interviews, in-depth interviews, and focus-group discussions. We analysed quantitative findings descriptively and used thematic content analysis for qualitative data. We included 142 children and 142 adolescents in the survey, and 20 of each used the intervention. Eighty-five percent (121/142) of surveyed participants indicated they would like to receive reminder SMS. Most of them (97/121-80%) of children and 94/121(78%) of adolescents would prefer to receive daily reminders. Participants who used the DAT mentioned to be happy to use the device. Ninety percent of them had good experience with receiving reminders and agreed that the SMS made them take medication. However, 25% experienced network problems. Participants preferred neutral reminder SMSs that did not mention the word 'medication', but preserved confidentiality. The provided adherence reports inspired participants to improve their adherence. None of the participants experienced unwanted disclosure or stigmatisation due to DAT. However, 5% of adolescents were concerned about being monitored daily. This study showed that DAT is acceptable and provided insight of the needed SMS content for a customized DAT for CALHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iraseni Ufoo Swai
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- UMC Amsterdam, Location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lisa Lynn ten Bergen
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alan Mtenga
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Rehema Maro
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Kennedy Ngowi
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- UMC Amsterdam, Location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Benson Mtesha
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | - Takondwa Msosa
- UMC Amsterdam, Location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Helse Nord Tuberculosis Initiative, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Tobias F. Rinke de Wit
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- PharmAccess Foundation, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rob Aarnoutse
- Radboud university medical center, Department of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marion Sumari-de Boer
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Institute of Public Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
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14
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Joaquim L, Miranda MNS, Pimentel V, Martins MDRO, Nhampossa T, Abecasis A, Pingarilho M. Retention in Care and Virological Failure among Adult HIV-Positive Patients on First-Line Antiretroviral Treatment in Maputo, Mozambique. Viruses 2023; 15:1978. [PMID: 37896757 PMCID: PMC10610786 DOI: 10.3390/v15101978] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Access to antiretroviral treatment (ART) is increasingly available worldwide; however, the number of patients lost to follow-up and number of treatment failures continue to challenge most African countries. OBJECTIVES To analyse the retention in clinical care and the virological response and their associated factors of HIV-1 patients from the Maputo Military Hospital (MMH). METHODS A cross-sectional observational study was conducted to analyse data from patients who started ART between 2016 and 2018 in the MMH. RESULTS At the end of 12 months, 75.1% of 1247 patients were active on clinical follow-up and 16.8% had suspected virologic failure (VL > 1000 copies/mm3). Patients younger than 40 years old were more likely to be lost to follow-up when compared to those aged >50 years old, as well as patients who were unemployed and patients with a CD4 count < 350 cells/mm3. Patients with haemoglobin levels lower than 10 g/dL and with a CD4 count < 350 cells/mm3 were more likely to have virological failure. CONCLUSIONS We have identified clinical and sociodemographic determinants of loss to follow-up and in the development of virological failure for HIV-positive patients in clinical care in the MMH. Therefore, HIV programs must consider these factors to increase the screening of patients at high risk of poor outcomes and particularly to strengthen adherence counselling programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonid Joaquim
- Centro Integrado de Cuidados e Tratamento, Hospital Militar de Maputo, Maputo P.O. Box 21414368/9, Mozambique
| | - Mafalda N. S. Miranda
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.N.S.M.); (V.P.); (M.d.R.O.M.); (A.A.); (M.P.)
| | - Victor Pimentel
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.N.S.M.); (V.P.); (M.d.R.O.M.); (A.A.); (M.P.)
| | - Maria do Rosario Oliveira Martins
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.N.S.M.); (V.P.); (M.d.R.O.M.); (A.A.); (M.P.)
| | - Tacilta Nhampossa
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Sede, Manhiça, Rua 12, Maputo 1929, Mozambique;
| | - Ana Abecasis
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.N.S.M.); (V.P.); (M.d.R.O.M.); (A.A.); (M.P.)
| | - Marta Pingarilho
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.N.S.M.); (V.P.); (M.d.R.O.M.); (A.A.); (M.P.)
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15
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Chakakala-Chaziya J, Patson N, Samuel V, Mbotwa J, Buonsenso D, Chisale M, Phiri E, O’Hare B. A comparison of clinical outcomes among people living with HIV of different age groups attending queen Elizabeth central hospital outpatient ART Clinic in Malawi. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1175553. [PMID: 37795414 PMCID: PMC10546013 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1175553] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adherence to Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) in children and adolescents living with HIV in low-resource settings is not extensively studied in large cohort studies including both adults and pediatric patients. We compared rates of virological suppression, adherence and defaulting among children, adolescents and adults attending a family ART clinic at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital; a tertiary hospital situated in the southern region of Malawi. Methods The study was longitudinal and made use of routinely collected data for all 27,229 clinic attendees. Clinical information obtained at routine clinical visits entered electronically since 2008 was extracted in February 2017. This data was used to ascertain differences across the different age groups. Logistic regression and Cox regression models were fitted to compare rates of Virological Suppression (VS), adherence, and defaulting, respectively. Results Younger and older adolescents (ages 10-14 years and 15-19 years respectively) were less likely to achieve VS compared to adults in the final model AOR 0.4 (0.2-0.9, 95% CI) and AOR 0.2 (0.1-0.4, 95% CI) respectively. Young children (ages 0-4 years), older children (ages 5-9 years) and younger adolescents were less adherent to ART compared to adults AOR 0.1 (0.1-0.2, 95% CI), AOR 0.2 (0.1-0.3, 95% CI), and AOR 0.4 (0.3-0.5, 95% CI) respectively. Young adults and younger children had an increased likelihood of defaulting compared to adults. Conclusion Poor performance on ART of children and adolescents highlights unaddressed challenges to adherence. Ongoing research to explore these potential barriers and possible interventions needs to be carried out. The adherence assessment methods used and strategies for improving it among children and adolescents need to be revised at the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Chakakala-Chaziya
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mzuzu Central Hospital, Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Noel Patson
- The School of Public Health, University of Witswaterands, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Vincent Samuel
- The School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - John Mbotwa
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
- The Department of Applied Studies, Division of Statistics, Malawi University of Science and Technology, Mikolongwe, Malawi
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Master Chisale
- Faculty of Science Technology and Innovations, Biological Sciences Department, Mzuzu University, Mzuzu, Malawi
| | - Eddie Phiri
- The Umodzi Family ART Clinic, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Bernadette O’Hare
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
- The Division of Infection and Global Health, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
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16
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Machila N, Libonda L, Habineza P, Velu RM, Kamboyi HK, Ndhlovu J, Wamunyima I, Sinadambwe MM, Mudenda S, Zyambo C, Bumbangi FN. Prevalence and predictors of virological failure in pediatric patients on HAART in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 45:98. [PMID: 37692980 PMCID: PMC10491719 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2023.45.98.37017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Antiretroviral treatment failure has emerged as a challenge in the management of pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients, especially in resource-limited countries despite accessibility to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART). A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to synthesize virological failure (VF) prevalence and ascertain its predictors in children in sub-Saharan Africa. An electronic database search strategy was conducted from January to September 2021 on PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, HINARI, and CINAHL. Further, manual searching was conducted on non-indexed journals. Utilizing the JASP© version 0.17.2 (2023) statistical software, a meta-analysis of pooled prevalence of VF was estimated using the standardized mean differences. Further, selection models were used to assess the risk of bias and heterogeneity. The pooled odds ratios were estimated for the respective studies reporting on predictors of VF. The overall pooled estimate of the prevalence of VF in sub-Saharan Africa among the sampled population was 29% (95% CI: 27.0-32.0; p<0.001). Predictors of VF were drug resistance (OR: 1.68; 95% CI: 0.88-2.49; p < 0.001), poor adherence (OR: 5.35; 95% CI: 5.26-5.45; p < 0.001), nevirapine (NVP)-based regimen (OR: 5.11; 95% CI: 4.66-5.56; p < 0.001), non-usage of cotrimoxazole prophylaxis (OR: 4.30; 95% CI: 4.13-4.47; p < 0.001), higher viral load at the initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) (OR: 244.32; 95% CI: 244.2-244.47; p <0.001), exposure to the prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) (OR: 8.02; 95%CI: 7.58-8.46; p < 0.001), increased age/older age (OR: 3.37; 95% CI: 2.70-4.04; p < 0.001), advanced World Health Organization (WHO) stage (OR: 6.57; 95% CI: 6.17-6.98; p < 0.001), not having both parents as primary caregivers (OR: 3.01; 95% CI: 2.50-3.53; p < 0.001), and tuberclosis (TB) treatment (OR: 4.22; 95% CI: 3.68-4.76; p <0.001). The mean VF prevalence documented is at variance with studies in other developing countries outside the sub-Saharan region. The high prevalence of HIV cases contrasting with the limited expertise in the management of pediatric ART patients could explain this variance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nchimunya Machila
- Department of Disease Control and Prevention, School of Medicine, Eden University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Liyali Libonda
- Department of Disease Control and Prevention, School of Medicine, Eden University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Paul Habineza
- Department of Disease Control and Prevention, School of Medicine, Eden University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Harvey Kakoma Kamboyi
- Department of Disease Control and Prevention, School of Medicine, Eden University, Lusaka, Zambia
- Division of Infection and Immunity, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Jacob Ndhlovu
- Department of Disease Control and Prevention, School of Medicine, Eden University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Inonge Wamunyima
- Department of Disease Control and Prevention, School of Medicine, Eden University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Steward Mudenda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Cosmas Zyambo
- Department of Community and Family Health, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Flavien Nsoni Bumbangi
- Department of Disease Control and Prevention, School of Medicine, Eden University, Lusaka, Zambia
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17
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Owusu LB, Ababio C, Boahene S, Zakaria AFS, Emikpe AO, Dwumfour CK, Appiagyei KA, Apiribu F. The predictors of unsuppressed viremia among PLHIV: a cross-sectional study in Ghana. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1113. [PMID: 37296400 PMCID: PMC10257285 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16032-9] [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: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unsuppressed viremia in HIV infected patients is generally associated with increased rates of disease transmission and poor patient survival. This study assessed the socio-demographic determinants of People Living with HIV/AIDS, having viral load non-suppression and who are receiving antiretroviral therapy in a District Hospital in Ghana. METHODS The study utilized the cross-sectional research design with both primary and secondary data conducted from September to October 2021 in Ghana. Data were collected from 331 PLHIV who were placed on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) for more than 12 months at the ART centre at a District Hospital in Ghana. Unsuppressed viremia was defined as plasma viral load of ≥ 1000 copies/mL after 12 months on an ART with effective adherent support. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data on participants and a Secondary data was also collected from patients' folders, hospital registers and the computerized health information systems at the study site. SPSS was used to analyse descriptive and inferential data. Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact test were used to assess the independent determinants of viral load non-suppression. Pearson's chi-square test was used for tests giving ≤ 20% of expected cell counts less than five while Fisher's exact test was used for tests giving > 20% of expected cell counts less than five. A p value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Out of the 331 PLHIV who participated in the study, 174 (53%) were female and 157 (47%) were Male. The study found viral load non-suppression of 19% with age (p = 0.03), income (p = 0.02), employment (p = 0.04), means of transportation (p = 0.02), cost of transportation to the ART centre (p = 0.03) and level of medication adherence (p = 0.02) as determinants of viral load non-suppression. CONCLUSION There was a low level of viral load non-suppression among PLHIV after 12 months of active antiretroviral therapy with age, income, employment, means of transportation, cost of transportation and level of medication adherence influencing viral non-suppression. Thus, ART drugs and services should be decentralized to the community health workers' level within the various localities of patients to decrease the economic consequences involved in accessing health care for PLHIV/AIDS. This will minimize defaulting, improve adherence and promote viral load suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christiana Ababio
- New Edubiase Government Hospital, Adansi South District, Ashanti Region, Ghana
| | - Selina Boahene
- New Edubiase Government Hospital, Adansi South District, Ashanti Region, Ghana
| | | | | | | | | | - Felix Apiribu
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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18
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Nakimuli-Mpungu E, Wamala K, Nalugya JS, Nakanyike C, Iya J, Bakeera Kitaka S, Diana Namuli J, Akimana B, Nachega JB, Mills EJ, Seggane M. The effect of group support psychotherapy on adherence to anti-retroviral therapy and viral suppression among HIV positive young people: Study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 3:1011898. [PMID: 37089453 PMCID: PMC10115161 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1011898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
BackgroundSeveral studies have demonstrated an association between psychological risk factors and HIV disease progression. However, there is limited information on the use of psychological interventions to improve HIV treatment outcomes in young people living with HIV.ObjectiveThis pilot trial aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of group support psychotherapy in improving adherence to anti-retroviral therapy and viral suppression in young people living with HIV in Uganda.MethodsWe recruited 120 young people with HIV, aged 10–18 years, who had non-viral suppression 6 months after initiating first-line anti-retroviral therapy (ART) from community based HIV clinics in Kitgum district, northern Uganda. Participants were randomly assigned to receive GSP plus IAC (N = 60) or IAC alone (N = 60). Primary outcomes will be indicators of feasibility and acceptability as well as preliminary effectiveness of GSP in improving ART adherence and viral suppression analysed by intention to treat using cluster-adjusted t tests and permutation tests. Secondary outcomes will be measures of depression, anxiety and cost-effectiveness.ResultsThe trial has been approved by the Makerere College of Health Sciences School of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee, and the Uganda National Council of Science and Technology. Recruitment began in June 2021 and 120 young people living with HIV with their adult caregivers have been recruited to the trial. An analysis of baseline and 6-month data is in progress. The results of this trial will not only be presented at national and international conferences but also submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and as a report to the funding agencies.ConclusionsThis pilot trial will provide critical evidence to support the ongoing mental health integration into routine HIV care in Uganda.Trial RegistrationPan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR): 202006601935462
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Affiliation(s)
- Etheldreda Nakimuli-Mpungu
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
- Correspondence: Etheldreda Nakimuli-Mpungu
| | - Kizito Wamala
- Department of Psychology, Center for Victims of Torture, Gulu, Uganda
| | | | - Caroline Nakanyike
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Iya
- Department of Paediatrics and Childhealth, MakCHS, SEEK Group Support Psychotherapy Initiative Limited, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sabrina Bakeera Kitaka
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Justine Diana Namuli
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Benedict Akimana
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, Ministry of Health of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jean B. Nachega
- Departments of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
- Departments of International Health and Epidemiology, Bloomberg’s School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edward J. Mills
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Musisi Seggane
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Kauma G, Ddungu H, Ssewanyana I, Nyesiga S, Bogere N, Namulema-Diiro T, Byakika-Kibwika P, Namukwaya E, Kizza HM. Virologic Nonsuppression Among Patients With HIV Newly Diagnosed With Cancer at Uganda Cancer Institute: A Cross-Sectional Study. JCO Glob Oncol 2023; 9:e2200262. [PMID: 37043709 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE AIDS-related mortality declined markedly since the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART); however, cancer mortality in Africa was higher than its incidence in 2020. People living with HIV (PLWHIV) are at an increased risk of malignancy and death from malignancy compared with the general population. In Uganda, AIDS-defining malignancies (ADMs), including cervical cancer, Kaposi sarcoma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, are among the commonest malignancies. Virologic nonsuppression has been identified as an important predictor of mortality among PLWHIV diagnosed with cancer. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and to identify factors associated with virologic nonsuppression among PLWHIV newly diagnosed with cancer. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study that was carried out between December 2018 and April 2019 at the Uganda Cancer Institute. PLWHIV who had been on ART for at least 6 months and were newly diagnosed with cancer were enrolled. RESULTS A total of 167 participants were enrolled. Cervical cancer was the commonest ADM (n = 45; 50.6%) of all ADMs, while esophageal and breast cancers were the commonest non-ADMs, accounting for 17.5% (n = 14) each of all non-ADMs. The prevalence of virologic nonsuppression was 15%. Having Kaposi sarcoma (odds ratio [OR], 8.15; P = .003), being poorly adherent to ART (OR, 4.1; P = .045), and being on second-line ART (OR, 5.68; P = .011) were associated with virologic nonsuppression. CONCLUSION The prevalence of virologic nonsuppression is high among patients with HIV newly diagnosed with cancer. These findings emphasize the need for strengthening of adherence strategies, optimizing ART regimens, and prioritization of viral load testing among PLWHIV with newly diagnosed malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Pauline Byakika-Kibwika
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elizabeth Namukwaya
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Harriet Mayanja Kizza
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Nakaye C, Mukiza N, Mawanda D, Kataike H, Kaganzi H, Ahimbisibwe GM, Businge GB, Kyambadde RC, Nakalega R. Viral load suppression after intensive adherence counselling among adult people living with HIV at Kiswa health centre, Kampala: a retrospective cohort study. Secondary data analysis. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:18. [PMID: 36998004 PMCID: PMC10061832 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00513-3] [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: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS through the 95-95-95 target requires 95% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral treatment (ART) to be virally suppressed. Viral Load (VL) non-suppression has been found to be associated with suboptimal ART adherence, and Intensive Adherence Counselling (IAC) has been shown to lead to VL re-suppression by over 70% in PLHIV on ART. Currently, there is data paucity on VL suppression after IAC in adult PLHIV in Uganda. This study aimed to evaluate the proportion of VL suppression after IAC and associated factors among adult PLHIV on ART at Kiswa Health Centre in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS Study was a retrospective cohort design and employed secondary data analysis to review routine program data. Medical records of adult PLHIV on ART for at least six months with VL non-suppression from January 2018 to June 2020 at Kiswa HIV clinic were examined in May 2021. Descriptive statistics were applied to determine sample characteristics and study outcome proportions. Multivariable modified Poisson regression analysis was employed to assess predictors of VL suppression after IAC. RESULTS Analysis included 323 study participants of whom 204 (63.2%) were female, 137 (42.4%) were between the age of 30 and 39 years; and median age was 35 years (interquartile range [IQR] 29-42). Participant linkage to IAC was 100%. Participants who received the first IAC session within 30 days or less after unsuppressed VL result were 48.6% (157/323). Participants who received recommended three or more IAC sessions and achieved VL suppression were 66.4% (202/304). The percentage of participants who completed three IAC sessions in recommended 12 weeks was 34%. Receipt of three IAC sessions (ARR = 1.33, 95%CI: 1.15-1.53, p < 0.001), having baseline VL of 1,000-4,999 copies/ml (ARR = 1.47, 95%CI: 1.25-1.73, p < 0.001) and taking Dolutegravir containing ART regimen were factors significantly associated with VL suppression after IAC. CONCLUSION VL suppression proportion of 66.4% after IAC in this population was comparable to 70%, the percentage over which adherence interventions have been shown to cause VL re-suppression. However, timely IAC intervention is needed from receipt of unsuppressed VL results to IAC process completion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Nakaye
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda.
| | | | | | - Hajira Kataike
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hellen Kaganzi
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Miriam Ahimbisibwe
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gerald Bright Businge
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Raymonds Crespo Kyambadde
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rita Nakalega
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
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Djiyou ABD, Penda CI, Madec Y, Ngondi GD, Moukoko A, Varloteaux M, de Monteynard LA, Moins C, Moukoko CEE, Aghokeng AF. Viral load suppression in HIV-infected adolescents in cameroon: towards achieving the UNAIDS 95% viral suppression target. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:119. [PMID: 36922769 PMCID: PMC10015512 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-03943-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achieving the UNAIDS 95% sustained viral suppression (VS) rate requires considerable global efforts, particularly among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) who are often associated with high rates of virological failure (VF). In this study, we prospectively assessed the rate of VS, and the factors associated with VF in a cohort of adolescents followed up according to the WHO guidelines in Cameroon. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out in 2021 among adolescents (aged 10-19 years) receiving ART in the national program in Cameroon. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected using patients' medical files and a brief interview with the participant and/or his guardian. Thereafter, a first viral load test (VL1) was performed using the ABBOTT Platform. For adolescents with VL1 > 1000 copies/ml, adherence-enhancing interventions were routinely performed each month for 3 consecutive months, after which a second viral load (VL2) was measured. Adolescents with VL2 > 1000 copies/ml were considered in VF. RESULTS Overall, 280 adolescents were enrolled, of whom 89.3% (250/280) acquired HIV infection via mother-to-child transmission. The median age was 16.0 (IQR: 13.0-18.0) years and the median duration on ART was 9.8 (IQR: 5.1-12.8) years. Females and males were almost equally represented, as 52.1% (146/280) were female, while 47.9% (134/280) were males (p = 0.47). The VS rate was 88.2% (CI: 83.8-91.7%) overall; 89.0% (CI: 82.0-93.1%) and 88.7% (CI: 81.2-93.0%) in females and males, respectively. Being on second or third-line ART, self-declared suboptimal adherence, and a history of past VF were independently associated with VF. CONCLUSION The high rate of VS we report in this study is welcome in the era of the 95/95/95 UNAIDS goals, and indicates that improving treatment outcomes in this specific and fragile population that represent adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa is achievable. TRIAL REGISTRATION 20/10/2020 NCT04593979 ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04593979 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando B D Djiyou
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
- UMR MIVEGEC, IRD, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, 911, avenue Agropolis, PO. Box 64501, 34394, Montpellier, Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Calixte Ida Penda
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, General Hospital of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Yoann Madec
- Epidemiology of emerging diseases, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, F-75015, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Marie Varloteaux
- Agence Nationale de Recherches sur le Sida et les hépatites virales (ANRS | Maladies infectieuses émergentes), Paris, France
| | - Laure-Amélie de Monteynard
- Agence Nationale de Recherches sur le Sida et les hépatites virales (ANRS | Maladies infectieuses émergentes), Paris, France
| | - Cecile Moins
- Agence Nationale de Recherches sur le Sida et les hépatites virales (ANRS | Maladies infectieuses émergentes), Paris, France
| | - Carole Else Eboumbou Moukoko
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
- Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Avelin F Aghokeng
- UMR MIVEGEC, IRD, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, 911, avenue Agropolis, PO. Box 64501, 34394, Montpellier, Montpellier Cedex 5, France.
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Chen M, Wu M, Zeng L, Zhang Y, Huobu-Mo M, Li J, Li C, Xiao H. Virologic status and pattern of drug resistance mutation among ART-experienced HIV-infected patients in Butuo County, China. J Glob Antimicrob Resist 2023; 32:98-103. [PMID: 36708768 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgar.2023.01.002] [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: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the virological outcomes, prevalence of HIV drug resistance mutation (DRM), and correlates in Butuo County. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study. Virological failure (VF) was defined as HIV-1 RNA ≥1000 copies/mL and on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥6 months. Genotypic drug resistance was performed among VF cases. Correlates of DRM were identified using multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS The overall virological suppression rate was 85.3%; DRM was detected in 42.6% (517/1215) VF cases and 6.2% of the sample patients. A total of 90.9% of patients were infected with HIV-1 CRF07_BC subtype. The prevalence of DRM to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) were 46.0% and 96.9%, respectively. The most prevalent mutation for NRTI was M184V (84.5%). Lamivudine (3TC), emtricitabine (FTC), and abacavir (ABC) had the highest resistance rates. For NNRTI, K103N (60.7%), nevirapine (NVP), and efavirenz (EFV) had the highest resistance rates and cross resistance to rilpivirine (RPV), doravirine (DOR), and etravirine (ETR). Ritonavir boosted lopinavir (LPV/r) resistance rate was extremely low. The occurrence of DRM was associated with age at ART ≤18 years, baseline CD4 count ≤200 cells/mL, NVP-based regimen, and ART duration >3 years. CONCLUSION A relatively high proportion of VF and broad DRM for NRTI and NNRTI were observed, causing high-level resistance to first-line NRTI, NNRTI, and next generation NNRTI. Our findings necessitate the implementation of scaling up virological monitoring, adherence support, and timely switching to an LPV/r-containing regimen when patients with VF to reduce the occurrence of DRM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghong Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Butuo People's Hospital, Butuo, Liangshan Prefecture, China
| | - Min Wu
- Antiviral Treatment Center, Butuo People's Hospital, Butuo, Liangshan Prefecture, China
| | - Liyan Zeng
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Chronic Infectious Diseases Prevention and Treatment, Jiading District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
| | - Muzuo Huobu-Mo
- Antiviral Treatment Center, Butuo People's Hospital, Butuo, Liangshan Prefecture, China
| | - Juhua Li
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaoqun Li
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Xiao
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Hlophe LD, Tamuzi JL, Shumba CS, Nyasulu PS. Barriers and facilitators to anti-retroviral therapy adherence among adolescents aged 10 to 19 years living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: A mixed-methods systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0276411. [PMID: 37200399 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) significantly affects adolescents globally, with the sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) reporting a high burden of the disease. HIV testing, treatment, and retention to care are low among adolescents. We conducted a mixed-method systematic review to assess anti-retroviral therapy (ART) adherence; barriers and facilitators to ART adherence and ART outcomes among adolescents living with HIV and on ART in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS We conducted searches in four scientific databases for studies conducted between 2010 and March 2022 to identify relevant primary studies. Studies were screened against inclusion criteria and assessed for quality, and data was extracted. Meta-analysis of rates and odd ratios was used to plot the quantitative studies and meta-synthesis summarized the evidence from qualitative studies. RESULTS A total of 10 431 studies were identified and screened against the inclusion/ exclusion criteria. Sixty-six studies met the inclusion criteria (41 quantitative, 16 qualitative, and 9 mixed-methods study designs). Fifty-three thousand two hundred and seventeen (53 217) adolescents (52 319 in quantitative studies and 899 in qualitative studies) were included in the review. Thirteen support focused interventions for improved ART adherence were identified from quantitative studies. The plotted results from the meta-analysis found an ART adherence rate of 65% (95%CI 56-74), viral load suppression was 55% (95%CI 46-64), un-suppressed viral load rate of 41% (95%CI 32-50), and loss to follow up of 17% (95%CI 10-24) among adolescents. Meta-synthesis found six themes of barriers to ART (social, patient-based, economic, health system-based, therapy-based, and cultural barriers) in both the qualitative and quantitative studies, and three themes of facilitators to ART were also identified (social support, counselling, and ART education and secrecy or confidentiality) from qualitative studies. CONCLUSION ART adherence remains low among adolescents in SSA despite multiple interventions implemented to improve ART adherence. The low adherence rate may hinder the attainment of the UNAIDS 2030 targets. Additionally, various barriers to ART adherence due to lack of support have been reported among this age group. However, interventions aimed at improving social support, educating, and counselling adolescents may improve and sustain ART adherence. TRIAL REGISTRATION Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021284891.
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Affiliation(s)
- Londiwe D Hlophe
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eswatini, Mbabane, Kingdom of Eswatini
| | - Jacques L Tamuzi
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Peter S Nyasulu
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Nimwesiga C, Taremwa IM, Nakanjako D, Nasuuna E. Factors Associated with Retention in HIV Care Among HIV-Positive Adolescents in Public Antiretroviral Therapy Clinics in Ibanda District, Rural South Western Uganda. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2023; 15:71-81. [PMID: 36910020 PMCID: PMC9994664 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s401611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Retention in antiretroviral therapy (ART) care is a key indicator of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) treatment success as it improves adherence, critical for better treatment outcomes and prevention of drug resistance. HIV treatment among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) is characterized by loss to follow-up, poor ART adherence, and eventual death. This study assessed retention in ART care and the associated factors among ALHIV in Ibanda district, rural South Western Uganda. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study using clinical data from ALHIV enrolled from 2019 to 2020 in eight health facilities in Ibanda district. Data from the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system was extracted to assess the associated factors and participants' status two years after enrollment. Data were analyzed using EPIdata version 3.1 in which Univariate and multivariate cox proportional hazard regression analyses were determined. A hazard ratio (HR) at a 95% confidence interval was obtained, and a P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Eighty-four ALHIV comprising 86.9% (N = 73) females were enrolled. The majority 63.1% (N = 53) resided in semi/peri-urban, and 44.0% (N = 37) stayed less than 5 km from the facility. Only 35.7% (N = 30) were active on ART, while 17 (20.2%) and 36 (42.9%) were lost to follow-up and transfer-outs, respectively. Factors associated with low retention were: ALHIV that moved 5-10Km (HR = 5.371; 95% CI: 1.227-23.5050, p = 0.026), used differential service delivery model was Facility-Based Group (FBG) (HR = 12.419; 95% CI: 4.034-38.236, p < 0.001) and those enrolled on the Young Adolescent Program Support (YAPs) (HR = 4.868; 95CI:1.851-12.803; p = 0.001). Retention reduced with increasing ART duration, ALHIV on (TDF/3TC/EFV) (p < 0.001), lived more than 10Km (p = 0.043) and did not benefit from any intervention (p < 0.001). Conclusion Results showed low retention in care and the urgent need to strengthen individual case management strategies for ALHIV, thus interventions focusing on peer support are desired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Nimwesiga
- Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda.,Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, Uganda.,Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ivan Mugisha Taremwa
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
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Incorporating social determinants of health into the mathematical modeling of HIV/AIDS. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20541. [PMID: 36446878 PMCID: PMC9707122 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24459-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, it is estimated that 37.6 million people are living with the HIV/AIDS virus worldwide, placing HIV/AIDS among the ten leading causes of death, mostly among low- and lower-middle-income countries. Despite the effective intervention in the prevention and treatment, this reduction did not occur equally among populations, subpopulations and geographic regions. This difference in the occurrence of the disease is associated with the social determinants of health (SDH), which could affect the transmission and maintenance of HIV. With the recognition of the importance of SDH in HIV transmission, the development of mathematical models that incorporate these determinants could increase the accuracy and robustness of the modeling. This article aims to propose a theoretical and conceptual way of including SDH in the mathematical modeling of HIV/AIDS. The theoretical mathematical model with the Social Determinants of Health has been developed in stages. For the selection of SDH that were incorporated into the model, a narrative literature review was conducted. Secondly, we proposed an extended model in which the population (N) is divided into Susceptible (S), HIV-positive (I), Individual with AIDS (A) and individual under treatment (T). Each SDH had a different approach to embedding in the model. We performed a calibration and validation of the model. A total of 31 SDH were obtained in the review, divided into four groups: Individual Factors, Socioeconomic Factors, Social Participation, and Health Services. In the end, four determinants were selected for incorporation into the model: Education, Poverty, Use of Drugs and Alcohol abuse, and Condoms Use. the section "Numerical simulation" to simulate the influence of the poverty rate on the AIDS incidence and mortality rates. We used a Brazilian dataset of new AIDS cases and deaths, which is publicly available. We calibrated the model using a multiobjective genetic algorithm for the years 2003 to 2019. To forecast from 2020 to 2035, we assumed two lines of poverty rate representing (i) a scenario of increasing and (ii) a scenario of decreasing. To avoid overfitting, we fixed some parameters and estimated the remaining. The equations presented with the chosen SDH exemplify some approaches that we can adopt when thinking about modeling social effects on the occurrence of HIV. The model was able to capture the influence of the employment/poverty on the HIV/AIDS incidence and mortality rates, evidencing the importance of SDOH in the occurrence of diseases. The recognition of the importance of including the SDH in the modeling and studies on HIV/AIDS is evident, due to its complexity and multicausality. Models that do not take into account in their structure, will probably miss a great part of the real trends, especially in periods, as the current on, of economic crisis and strong socioeconomic changes.
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Anito AA, Lenjebo TL, Woticha E, Solomon F. Magnitude of Viral Load Suppression and Associated Factors among Clients on Antiretroviral Therapy in Public Hospitals of Hawassa City Administration, Ethiopia. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:529-538. [PMID: 36425750 PMCID: PMC9680672 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s387787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A majority of clients on first-line antiretroviral therapy with an initial high viral load will resuppress following an adherence intervention. Some sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were found to affect resuppression. Few reports on the outcome of the intervention and its associated factors in our country, with inconsistent results and some missed clinical factors of potential association, have compelled this study. The study aimed to assess the proportion of viral load suppression and associated factors among clients on antiretroviral therapy in public hospitals of Hawassa City Administration, Ethiopia. METHODS An institution-based cross-sectional study with retrospective document review was conducted among 342 participants on antiretroviral therapy enrolled for counseling since its start in November 2016. Data were captured using a pretested and structured checklist from all client charts with complete data, entered into EpiData 3.1.0 and exported to SPSS 27 for analysis. The proportion of viral load suppression was determined. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify associated factors. Statistical significance was determined at a 95% CI and P<0.05. RESULTS The proportion of viral load suppression was found to be 40.9% (35.7%-46.5%). Nevirapine-based antiretroviral treatment regimens (AOR 0.125, 95% CI 0.034-0.464), malnutrition (AOR 0.565, 95% CI 0.329-0.971), poor adherence (AOR 0.504, 95% CI 0.287-0.886), lower CD4 count (AOR 0.149, 95% CI 0.071, 0.314), and fewer counseling sessions (AOR 0.330, 95% CI 0.149-0.729) were significantly associated with viral load suppression. CONCLUSION The proportion of viral load suppression is lower than that recommended by the World Health Organization. Nevirapine-based regimens, poor nutritional status, poor adherence, lower CD4 count, and fewer counseling sessions risk a lower proportion of viral load suppression. This calls for the need to devise strategies to address these factors and to revisit program implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eskinder Woticha
- School of Public Health, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Fithamlak Solomon
- School of Medical Laboratory, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
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Munyayi FK, van Wyk B. Closing the HIV Treatment Gap for Adolescents in Windhoek, Namibia: A Retrospective Analysis of Predictors of Viral Non-Suppression. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192214710. [PMID: 36429431 PMCID: PMC9690371 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Windhoek joined the Fast-Track Cities Initiative in 2017 to optimize HIV service delivery for adolescents, promoting adherence and sustaining viral suppression. Recent surveys and programmatic data show that the treatment gap remains greatest among children and adolescents living with HIV. A retrospective cohort analysis of adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) at Windhoek healthcare facilities was conducted. Routine clinical data were extracted from the electronic Patient Monitoring System (ePMS). The SPSS statistical package was used to determine viral non-suppression and perform inferential statistics. 695 ALHIV were analysed with median age of 16 years (IQR = 13-18). Viral non-suppression at 1000 copies/mL threshold was 12%. Viral non-suppression was associated with age at ART initiation, duration on ART, current ART regimen and WHO Clinical Stage. In multivariate analysis, longer duration on ART was a protective factor for viral non-suppression (13-24 months vs. >24 months: aOR = 8.92, 95% CI 2.60-30.61), while being on third line regimen (vs. first line) was protective against viral non-suppression (aOR = 0.11, 95% CI 0.03-0.49). A significant treatment gap is evident for ALHIV with high viral non-suppression levels. Interventions are required to counter treatment fatigue to keep adolescents engaged in ART, and timely switching to rescue regimens for failing adolescents.
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Rate of virological failure and HIV-1 drug resistance among HIV-infected adolescents in routine follow-up on health facilities in Cameroon. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276730. [PMID: 36288365 PMCID: PMC9604952 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the rates of virological failure (VF) and HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) amongst adolescents on antiretroviral Therapy (ART). A retrospectively designed study was conducted in 10 healthcare centers for adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in the two main cities of Cameroon (Yaoundé and Douala), from November 2018 to May 2019. Sociodemographic, clinical, therapeutic and laboratory parameters were collected from medical records. All enrolled ALHIV had viral load (VL) measurements following the national guidelines. All patients with a VL ≥ 1000 copies/ml were called to perform genotyping tests. The chi-square test was used to determine the factors associated with VF. Out of the 1316 medical records of ALHIV, we included 1083 ALHIV having a VL result. Among them, 276 (25.5%) were experiencing VF, and VF was significantly higher in ALHIV with suboptimal adherence (p<0.001), older adolescents (p<0.05), those who lived outside the city where they were receiving ART (p<0.006), severely immunocompromised (p<0.01) and started ART at infancy (p<0.02). Among the 45/276 (16.3%) participants with an available genotyping resistance testing (GRT) result, the overall rate of HIVDR was 93.3% (42/45). The most common mutations were K103N (n = 21/42, 52.3%) resulting in high-level resistance to Efavirenz and Nevirapine, followed by M184V (n = 20/42, 47.6%) and thymidine analog mutations (n = 15/42, 35.7%) associated with high-level resistance to Lamivudine and Zidovudine respectively. The high rate of VF and HIVDR among ALHIV regularly followed in health facilities in Cameroon highlights the need to develop interventions adapted to an adolescent-centered approach to preserve future ART options.
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Bogale B, Asefa A, Destaw A, Midaksa G, Asaye Z, Alemu Gebremichael M, Wolde AA, Yimer E, Yosef T. Determinants of virological failure among patients on first line highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in Southwest Ethiopia: A case-control study. Front Public Health 2022; 10:916454. [PMID: 36408009 PMCID: PMC9667891 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.916454] [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: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Virological failure remains a public health concern among patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) after treatment initiation. Ethiopia is one of the countries that aims to achieve the global target of 90-90-90 that aims to achieve 90% virological suppression, but there is a paucity of evidence on the determinants of virological failure. Therefore, the study is intended to assess determinants of virological treatment failure among patients on first-line highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) at Mizan Tepi University Teaching Hospital (MTUTH), Southwest Ethiopia. Method A hospital-based unmatched case-control study was conducted from 11 November to 23 December 2020, among 146 cases and 146 controls. All cases and controls were selected randomly using computer-generated random numbers based on their medical record numbers. During the document review, data were collected using checklists, entered into Epi-data version 4.0.2, and analyzed by SPSS version 25. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify the independent determinants of virological treatment failure. Results In this study, being male (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.47), substance use (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI: 1.40, 4.95), baseline hemoglobin (Hgb) < 12 mg/dl (AOR = 3.22, 95% CI: 1.82, 5.99), poor drug adherence (AOR = 3.84, 95% CI: 1.77, 5.95), restart ART medication (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.69, 7.35), and opportunistic infection (OI) while on HAART (AOR = 4.73, 95% CI: 1.76, 12.11) were determinants of virological treatment failure. Conclusion The study revealed that the sex of the patient, history of substance use, baseline Hgb < 12 mg/dl, poor drug adherence, restart after an interruption, and having OI through the follow-up period were determinants of virological failure. Therefore, program implementation should consider gender disparity while men are more prone to virological failure. It is also imperative to implement targeted interventions to improve drug adherence and interruption problems in follow-up care. Moreover, patients with opportunistic infections and restart HAART need special care and attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biruk Bogale
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia,*Correspondence: Biruk Bogale ;
| | - Adane Asefa
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Alemnew Destaw
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Gachana Midaksa
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Zufan Asaye
- Department of Statistics, College of Natural Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Mathewos Alemu Gebremichael
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Asrat Arja Wolde
- Department of Data Repository and Governance, National Data Management Center for Health, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ejig Yimer
- Department of Public Health, Mizan-Aman Health Science College, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Tewodros Yosef
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
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Masaba RO, Woelk G, Herrera N, Siamba S, Simiyu R, Ochanda B, Okomo G, Odionyi J, Audo M, Mwangi E. Standardized enhanced adherence counseling for improved HIV viral suppression among children and adolescents in Homa Bay and Turkana Counties, Kenya. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30624. [PMID: 36221325 PMCID: PMC9542655 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral suppression is suboptimal among children and adolescents on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Kenya. We implemented and evaluated a standardized enhanced adherence counseling (SEAC) package to improve viral suppression in children and adolescents with suspected treatment failure in Homa Bay and Turkana. The SEAC package, implemented from February 2019 to September 2020, included: standard procedures operationalizing the enhanced adherence counseling (EAC) process; provider training on psychosocial support and communication skills for children living with HIV and their caregivers; mentorship to providers and peer educators on EAC processes; and individualized case management. We enrolled children and adolescents aged 0 to 19 years with suspected treatment failure (viral load [VL] >1000 copies/mL) who received EAC before standardization as well as those who received SEAC in a pre-post evaluation of the SEAC package conducted in 6 high-volume facilities. Pre-post standardization comparisons were performed using Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney and Pearson's chi-square tests at a 5% level of significance. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with viral resuppression. The study enrolled 741 participants, 595 pre- and 146 post-SEAC implementation. All post-SEAC participants attended at least 1 EAC session, while 17% (n = 98) of pre-SEAC clients had no record of EAC attendance. Time to EAC following the detection of high VL was reduced by a median of 8 days, from 49 (interquartile range [IQR]: 23.0-102.5) to 41 (IQR: 20.0-67.0) days pre- versus post-SEAC (P = .006). Time to completion of at least 3 sessions was reduced by a median of 12 days, from 59.0 (IQR: 36.0-91.0) to 47.5 (IQR: 33.0-63.0) days pre- versus post-SEAC (P = .002). A greater percentage of clients completed the recommended minimum 3 EAC sessions at post-SEAC, 88.4% (n = 129) versus 61.1% (n = 363) pre-SEAC, P < .001. Among participants with a repeat VL within 3 months following the high VL, SEAC increased viral suppression from 34.6% (n = 76) to 52.5% (n = 45), P = .004. Implementation of the SEAC package significantly reduced the time to initiate EAC and time to completion of at least 3 EAC sessions, and was significantly associated with viral suppression in children and adolescents with suspected treatment failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Otieno Masaba
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
- *Correspondence: Rose Otieno Masaba, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya (e-mail: )
| | - Godfrey Woelk
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, WA, DC, USA
| | | | - Stephen Siamba
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rogers Simiyu
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Boniface Ochanda
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Global HIV & TB, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | | | - Michael Audo
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eliud Mwangi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
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Musinguzi P, Najjuma JN, Arishaba A, Ochen E, Ainembabazi R, Keizirege F, Sabano RL, Wakida EK, Obua C. Barriers and facilitators to the utilization of the intensive adherence counselling framework by healthcare providers in Uganda: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1104. [PMID: 36045418 PMCID: PMC9429278 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08495-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Uganda Ministry of Health (UMOH) embraced the World Health Organization recommendation for people living with human immunodeficiency virus with a detectable viral load (VL) exceeding 1000 copies/mL to receive intensive adherence counselling (IAC). The IAC framework was developed as a step-by-step guide for healthcare providers to systematically support persons with non-suppressed VL to develop a comprehensive plan for adhering to treatment. The objective of this study was to explore the current practice of the healthcare providers when providing IAC, and identify the barriers and facilitators to the utilization of the UMOH IAC framework at two health centers IV level in rural Uganda. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional qualitative study that explored the current practices of the healthcare providers when providing IAC, and identified the barriers and facilitators to the utilization of the UMOH IAC framework. We used an interview guide with unstructured questions about what the participants did to support the clients with non-suppressed VL, and semi-structured questions following a checklist of categories of barriers and facilitators that affect ‘providers of care’ as provided by the Supporting the Use of Research Evidence for policy in African health systems (SURE) framework. Current practice as well as the categories of barriers and facilitators formed the a priori themes which guided data collection and analysis. In this study we only included healthcare providers (i.e., medical doctors, clinical officer, nurses, and counsellors) as ‘providers of care’ excluding family members because we were interested in the health system. Results A total of 19 healthcare providers took part in the interviews. The healthcare providers reported lack of sufficient knowledge on the UMOH IAC framework; most of them did not receive prior training or sensitization when it was first introduced. They indicated that they lacked counselling and communication skills to effectively utilize the IAC framework, and they were not motivated to utilize it because of the high workload at the clinics compounded by the limited workforce. Conclusions Although the UMOH IAC framework is a good step-by-step guide for the healthcare providers, there is need to understand their context and assess readiness to embrace the new behavior before expecting spontaneous uptake and utilization. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-08495-0.
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Gordon TP, Talbert M, Mugisha MK, Herbert AE. Factors associated with HIV viral suppression among adolescents in Kabale district, South Western Uganda. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270855. [PMID: 35980902 PMCID: PMC9387807 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The goal of antiretroviral therapy is to achieve sustained human immune deficiency virus (HIV) viral suppression. However, research on factors associated with viral load suppression among adolescents in low and middle-income countries is limited. The objectives of this study were to determine HIV viral suppression levels among adolescents in Kabale district and the associated clinical, adherence and psychosocial factors. Methods Cross-sectional and retrospective cohort study designs were used. Two hundred and forty-nine adolescents living with HIV that attended clinics between September and October 2019 at nine health facilities were interviewed and their medical records reviewed. A data abstraction tool was used to collect clinical data from adolescent’s clinical charts, face to face interviews were conducted using semi-structured questionnaire adopted from the HEADS tool and in-depth interviews conducted with ten key informants. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic content analysis. Logistic regression was used to determine the magnitude by which clinical and psychosocial factors influence viral load suppression. Odds Ratios (ORs) were used for statistical associations at 95% confidence interval considering statistical significance for p-values less than 0.05. Qualitative data collected from Key informants to support our quantitative findings was analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results HIV viral suppression among (n = 249) adolescents was at 81%. Having no severe opportunistic infections was associated with viral load suppression among adolescent living with HIV (OR = 1.09; 95%CI [1.753–4.589]; p<0.001) as well as having no treatment interruptions (OR = 0.86; 95% CI [2.414–6.790]; p = 0.004). Belonging to a support group (OR = 1.01; 95% CI [1.53–4.88]; P = 0.020), having parents alive (OR = 2.04; 95% CI[1.02–4.12]; P = 0.047) and having meals in a day (OR = 5.68; C.I = 2.38–6.12, P = 0.010), were significantly associated to viral load suppression. The findings also indicated that long distances from health facilities, transport challenges and unprofessional conduct of health workers that make adolescent unwelcome at health facilities negatively affected viral suppression among adolescents. Conclusion The findings indicate that HIV viral suppression among adolescents on ART was at 81%. Kabale district was likely not to achieve the third 90 of the UNAIDS 90-90-90 global target for this population category. The findings further indicate that having no severe opportunistic infection and no treatment interruptions, good nutrition status, peer support and support from significant others, were highly associated with viral load suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tugume Peterson Gordon
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Muhwezi Talbert
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Ainamani Elvis Herbert
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
- Department of Mental Health, Kabale University School of Medicine, Kabale, Uganda
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Gill MM, Ndimbii JN, Otieno-Masaba R, Ouma M, Jabuto S, Ochanda B. Adherence challenges and opportunities for optimizing care through enhanced adherence counseling for adolescents with suspected HIV treatment failure in Kenya. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:962. [PMID: 35906574 PMCID: PMC9336023 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08373-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) experience higher mortality and are more likely to have poor antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and unsuppressed viral load (VL) compared to adults. Enhanced adherence counseling (EAC) is a client-centered counseling strategy that aims to identify and address barriers to optimal ART use and can be tailored to the unique needs of adolescents. This study aimed to better understand adherence barriers among ALHIV with suspected treatment failure and their experience with EAC to inform future programming. Methods A qualitative study was conducted in Homa Bay and Turkana counties, Kenya in 2019 with adolescents and caregivers of children and adolescents living with HIV with suspected treatment failure after ≥6 months on ART and who had received ≥1 EAC sessions. Sixteen focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted; five FGDs each were held with adolescents 12–14 years (n = 48) and 15–19 years (n = 36). Caregivers (n = 52) participated in six FGDs. Additionally, 17 healthcare workers providing pediatric/adolescent HIV services participated in in-depth interviews. Audio recordings were transcribed and translated from Kiswahili or Dholuo into English and coded using MAXQDA software. Data were thematically analyzed by participant group. Results Participants identified adolescents’ fear of being stigmatized due to their HIV status and their relationship with and level of support provided by caregivers. This underpinned and often undermined adolescents’ ART-taking behavior and progress towards more independent medication management. Adolescents were generally satisfied with EAC and perceived it to be important in improving adherence and reducing VL. However, problems were noted with facility-based, individual EAC counseling, including judgmental attitudes of providers and difficulties traveling to and keeping EAC clinic appointments. Participant-suggested improvements to EAC included peer support groups in addition to individual counseling, allowing for greater flexibility in the timing and location of sessions and greater caregiver involvement. Conclusions The findings provide opportunities to better tailor EAC interventions to promote improved ALHIV adherence and caregiver-supported disease management. Multi-prong EAC interventions that include peer-led and community approaches and target adolescent and caregiver treatment literacy may improve EAC delivery, address issues contributing to poor adherence, and position adolescents to achieve viral suppression. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04915469.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Gill
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington DC, USA
| | | | | | - Millicent Ouma
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Stella Jabuto
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Boniface Ochanda
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Global Health, Division of Global HIV & TB, Kisumu, Kenya
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Mhlanga TT, Jacobs BKM, Decroo T, Govere E, Bara H, Chonzi P, Sithole N, Apollo T, Van Damme W, Rusakaniko S, Lynen L, Makurumidze R. Virological outcomes and risk factors for non-suppression for routine and repeat viral load testing after enhanced adherence counselling during viral load testing scale-up in Zimbabwe: analytic cross-sectional study using laboratory data from 2014 to 2018. AIDS Res Ther 2022; 19:34. [PMID: 35810317 PMCID: PMC9270749 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-022-00458-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the scale-up of routine viral load (VL) testing started in 2016, there is limited evidence on VL suppression rates under programmatic settings and groups at risk of non-suppression. We conducted a study to estimate VL non-suppression (> 1000 copies/ml) and its risk factors using "routine" and "repeat after enhanced adherence counselling (EAC)" VL results. METHODS We conducted an analytic cross-sectional study using secondary VL testing data collected between 2014 and 2018 from a centrally located laboratory. We analysed data from routine tests and repeat tests after an individual received EAC. Our outcome was viral load non-suppression. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with having VL non-suppression for routine and repeat VL. RESULTS We analysed 103,609 VL test results (101,725 routine and 1884 repeat test results) collected from the country's ten provinces. Of the 101,725 routine and 1884 repeat VL tests, 13.8% and 52.9% were non-suppressed, respectively. Only one in seven (1:7) of the non-suppressed routine VL tests had a repeat test after EAC. For routine VL tests; males (vs females, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.19, [95% CI 1.14-1.24]) and adolescents (10-19 years) (vs adults (25-49 years), aOR = 3.11, [95% CI 2.9-3.31]) were more at risk of VL non-suppression. The patients who received care at the secondary level (vs primary, aOR = 1.21, [95% CI 1.17-1.26]) and tertiary level (vs primary, aOR = 1.63, [95% CI 1.44-1.85]) had a higher risk of VL non-suppression compared to the primary level. Those that started ART in 2014-2015 (vs < 2010, aOR = 0.83, [95% CI 0.79-0.88]) and from 2016 onwards (vs < 2010, aOR = 0.84, [95% CI 0.79-0.89]) had a lower risk of VL non-suppression. For repeat VL tests; young adults (20-24 years) (vs adults (25-49 years), (aOR) = 3.48, [95% CI 2.16 -5.83]), adolescents (10-19 years) (vs adults (25-49 years), aOR = 2.76, [95% CI 2.11-3.72]) and children (0-9 years) (vs adults (25-49 years), aOR = 1.51, [95% CI 1.03-2.22]) were at risk of VL non-suppression. CONCLUSION Close to 90% suppression in routine VL shows that Zimbabwe is on track to reach the third UNAIDS target. Strategies to improve the identification of clients with high routine VL results for repeating testing after EAC and ART adherence in subpopulations (men, adolescents and young adolescents) at risk of viral non-suppression should be prioritised.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tom Decroo
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Research Foundation of Flanders, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Emma Govere
- Harare City Council, Department of Health, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hilda Bara
- Harare City Council, Department of Health, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Prosper Chonzi
- Harare City Council, Department of Health, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Ngwarai Sithole
- AIDS & TB Unit, Ministry of Health & Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Apollo
- AIDS & TB Unit, Ministry of Health & Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Wim Van Damme
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Richard Makurumidze
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium. .,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe. .,Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
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Gumede SB, Venter F, de Wit J, Wensing A, Lalla-Edward ST. Antiretroviral therapy uptake and predictors of virological failure in patients with HIV receiving first-line and second-line regimens in Johannesburg, South Africa: a retrospective cohort data analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e054019. [PMID: 35428623 PMCID: PMC9013990 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study described the demographics, treatment information and identified characteristics associated with virological failure and being lost to follow-up (LTFU) for patients with HIV on first-line and second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens in a large South African cohort. DESIGN A quantitative retrospective cohort study using secondary data analysis. SETTING Seven Johannesburg inner city facilities. PARTICIPANTS Unique records of 123 002 people with HIV receiving ART at any point in the period 1 April 2004 to 29 February 2020 were included. MEASURES Demographic characteristics, ART status, CD4 count information and retention status were collected and analysed as covariates of outcomes (viral load (VL) and LTFU). RESULTS Of the total study patients, 95% (n=1 17 260) were on a first-line regimen and 5% (n=5742) were on a second-line regimen. Almost two-thirds were female (64%, n=79 226). Most patients (60%, n=72 430) were initiated on an efavirenz-based, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based and emtricitabine-based regimen (fixed-dose combination). 91% (n=76 737) achieved viral suppression at least once since initiating on ART and 60% (n=57 981) remained in care as at the end of February 2020. Patients from the community health centre and primary healthcare clinics were not only more likely to be virally suppressed but also more likely to be LTFU. Patients on second-line regimens were less likely to reach viral suppression (adjusted OR (aOR)=0.26, CI=0.23 to 0.28) and more likely to be LTFU (aOR=1.21, CI=1.09 to 1.35). Being older (≥25 years) and having a recent CD4 cell count≥100 cells/µL were predictors of viral suppression and retention in patients on ART. CONCLUSION Patients on first-line regimens had higher VL suppression rates and were more likely to remain in care than those on a second-line regimen. Being younger and having low CD4 cell counts were associated with poor outcomes, suggesting priority groups for ART adherence support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siphamandla Bonga Gumede
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Francois Venter
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - John de Wit
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Annemarie Wensing
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Munyayi FK, van Wyk B, Mayman Y. Interventions to Improve Treatment Outcomes among Adolescents on Antiretroviral Therapy with Unsuppressed Viral Loads: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073940. [PMID: 35409621 PMCID: PMC8997420 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) face unique developmental challenges that increase the risk of unsuppressed viral loads. Current reviews present a need for proven interventions to improve viral suppression among ALHIV on ART, who have a history of unsuppressed viral loads. This systematic review aims to synthesize and appraise evidence of the effectiveness of interventions to improve treatment outcomes among ALHIV with unsuppressed viral loads. Six bibliographic databases were searched for published studies and gray literature from 2010 to 2021. The risk of bias and certainty of evidence was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool, CASP checklists and GRADE. A total of 28 studies were eligible for full-text screening; and only three were included in the qualitative synthesis. In addition, two studies were included from website searches. Four types of interventions to improve viral suppression were identified, namely: intensive adherence counselling; community- and facility-based peer-led differentiated service delivery (DSD); family based economic empowerment; and conditional economic incentives and motivational interviewing. We strongly recommend peer-led community-based DSD interventions, intensive adherence counselling, and family-based economic empowerment as potential interventions to improve viral suppression among ALHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farai Kevin Munyayi
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa;
- Correspondence:
| | - Brian van Wyk
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa;
| | - Yolanda Mayman
- Department of Psychology, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa;
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Burke VM, Frimpong C, Miti S, Mwansa JK, Abrams EA, Merrill KG, Denison JA. "It must start with me, so it started with me": A qualitative study of Project YES! youth peer mentor implementing experiences supporting adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Ndola, Zambia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261948. [PMID: 35113861 PMCID: PMC8812956 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about youth-led approaches to addressing HIV-related outcomes among adolescents and young adults (AYA) living with HIV. In response, Project YES! hired and trained youth living with HIV as peer mentors (YPMs) in four HIV clinics in Ndola, Zambia to hold meetings with 276 15-24-year-olds living with HIV. Within this randomized controlled trial, a qualitative sub-study was conducted to explore YPMs' implementing experiences. METHODS In-depth interviews were conducted with the eight YPMs (50% female) ages 21-26 years. YPMs were asked about their experiences working with clients, their feedback on program components, and what the experience meant to them personally and professionally. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was performed. RESULTS YPMs connected with AYA clients by discussing shared struggles, modeling positive health behaviors, and establishing judgement-free environments. YPMs experienced powerful personal transformations in HIV-related health behaviors, conceptions of self, and plans for the future. Many expressed now seeing themselves as community leaders-"ambassadors", "game changers"-and "not just alone in this world." They described newfound commitments to reaching personal and professional goals. YPMs were adamant that Project YES! should expand so other HIV-positive AYA might benefit. CONCLUSION Well-trained and compensated YPMs who are integrated into HIV clinics can support AYA in unique and important ways due to their shared experiences. The transformational experience of becoming YPMs empowers youth to see themselves as role models and leaders. Future programs should engage youth living with HIV as partners in efforts to end the HIV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia M. Burke
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Sam Miti
- Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital, Ndola, Zambia
| | | | - Elizabeth A. Abrams
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Katherine G. Merrill
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Julie A. Denison
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Tsikhutsu I, Bii M, Dear N, Ganesan K, Kasembeli A, Sing’oei V, Rombosia K, Ochieng C, Desai P, Wolfman V, Coakley P, Lee EH, Hickey PW, Livezey J, Agaba P. Prevalence and Correlates of Viral Load Suppression and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Drug Resistance Among Children and Adolescents in South Rift Valley and Kisumu, Kenya. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:936-944. [PMID: 35092424 PMCID: PMC9522406 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children and adolescents living with HIV (CALHIV) face unique challenges, including poorer treatment outcomes, risk for drug-resistance mutations (HIVDRMs), and limited drug formulations. We estimated viral suppression (VS) prevalence and evaluated predictors of VS and HIVDRMs in Kenya. METHODS From 2018-2020, CALHIV 1-19 years on antiretroviral therapy (ART) >6 months were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Participants underwent viral load (VL) testing; those with VL ≥1000 copies/mL had HIVDRM testing. Sociodemographic questionnaires and medical record abstraction were completed. VS prevalence (VL <1000 copies/mL) was estimated; robust Poisson regression models were used to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% CIs for associations between potential predictors of VS. RESULTS Nine hundred and sixty-nine participants were enrolled. VS prevalence was .80 (95% CI: .78-.83). Being on ART >24 months (adjusted PR [aPR]: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.06-1.41), an integrase strand transfer inhibitor-containing regimen (1.13; 1.02-1.26), and attending a level 3 health facility (1.23; 1.11-1.36) were associated with VS. Missing ≥3 doses of ART in the past month (aPR: .73; 95% CI: .58-.92), having a viremic mother with HIV (.72; .53-.98), and having 3-7 (.90; .83-.97), 8-13 (.89; .82-.97), or ≥14 (.84; .77-.92) compared with <2 adherence counseling referrals were inversely associated with VS. A high proportion (n = 119, 81.5%) of unsuppressed participants had evidence of any major HIVDRM. CONCLUSIONS HIV treatment programs should target interventions for pediatric patients at risk for treatment failure-namely, those with a caregiver with failed VS and those struggling with adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nicole Dear
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Kavitha Ganesan
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Alex Kasembeli
- US Army Medical Research Directorate–Africa, Nairobi, Kenya,HJF Medical Research International, Kericho, Kenya
| | - Valentine Sing’oei
- US Army Medical Research Directorate–Africa, Nairobi, Kenya,HJF Medical Research International, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Christopher Ochieng
- US Army Medical Research Directorate–Africa, Nairobi, Kenya,HJF Medical Research International, Kericho, Kenya
| | - Priyanka Desai
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Vanessa Wolfman
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Peter Coakley
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Elizabeth H Lee
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA,The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Patrick W Hickey
- The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Patricia Agaba
- Correspondence: Patricia Agaba, 6720A Rockledge Dr, Suite 400, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA ()
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Predictors of Viral Non-Suppression among Patients Living with HIV under Dolutegravir in Bunia, Democratic Republic of Congo: A Prospective Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031085. [PMID: 35162109 PMCID: PMC8834045 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The Democratic Republic of the Congo adopted the integrase inhibitor dolutegravir (DTG) as part of its preferred first-line HIV treatment regimen in 2019. This study aimed to identify predictors of viral non-suppression among HIV-infected patients under a DTG-based regimen in the context of ongoing armed conflict since 2017 in the city of Bunia in the DRC. We conducted a cohort study of 468 patients living with HIV under DTG in all health facilities in Bunia. We calculated the proportion of participants with an HIV RNA of below 50 copies per milliliter. About three in four patients (72.8%) in this cohort had a viral load (VL) of <50 copies/mL after 6–12 months. After controlling for the effect of other covariates, the likelihood of having non-suppression remained significantly lower among the 25–34 age group and self-reported naïve patients with a baseline VL of ≥50 copies/mL. The likelihood of having non-suppression remained significantly higher among those who were at advanced stages of the disease, those with abnormal serum creatinine, those with high baseline HIV viremia over 1000 copies/mL, and the Sudanese ethnic group compared to the reference groups. This study suggests that we should better evaluate adherence, especially among adolescents and economically vulnerable populations, such as the Sudanese ethnic group in the city of Bunia. This suggests that an awareness of the potential effects of DTG and tenofovir is important for providers who take care of HIV-positive patients using antiretroviral therapy (ART), especially those with abnormal serum creatinine levels before starting treatment.
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Kose J, Tiam A, Siamba S, Lenz C, Okoth E, Wolters T, van de Vijver D, Rakhmanina N. Clinical outcomes among adolescents living with HIV in Kenya following initiation on antiretroviral treatment. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000094. [PMID: 36962291 PMCID: PMC10022018 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In Kenya, HIV/AIDS remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV). Our study evaluated associations between demographic and healthcare factors and HIV treatment outcomes among ALHIV in care in Kenya. This retrospective cohort study evaluated the clinical outcomes of newly diagnosed ALHIV enrolled in HIV care during January 2017-June 2018 at 32 healthcare facilities in Homabay and Kakamega Counties. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted from patient clinical records and registers during the follow up study period January 2017-through May 2019. ALHIV were stratified by age (10-14 versus 15-19 years). Categorical variables were summarized using descriptive statistics; continuous variables were analyzed using mean values. The latest available treatment and virological outcomes for ALHIV were assessed. 330 ALHIV were included in the study (mean age 15.9 years; 81.8% female, 63.0% receiving HIV care at lower-level healthcare facilities). Most (93.2%) were initiated on ART within 14 days of diagnosis; 91.4% initiated EFV-based regimens. Of those on ART, only 44.6% were active on care at the end of the study period. Of those eligible for viral load testing, 83.9% were tested with 84.4% viral suppression rate. Retention in care was higher at higher-level facilities (67.5%) compared to lower-level facilities (28.6%). Factors associated with higher retention in care were school attendance (aRR = 1.453), receipt of disclosure support (aRR = 13.315), and receiving care at a high-level health facility (aRR = 0.751). Factors associated with viral suppression included older age (15-19 years) (aRR = 1.249) and pre-ART clinical WHO stage I/II (RR = .668). Viral suppression was higher among older ALHIV. Studies are needed to evaluate effective interventions to improve outcomes among ALHIV in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Kose
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
- ErasmusMC, Department of Viroscience, Rotterdam University, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Appolinaire Tiam
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
- University of Bergen, Centre for International Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Stephen Siamba
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Cosima Lenz
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | | | - Theresa Wolters
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - David van de Vijver
- ErasmusMC, Department of Viroscience, Rotterdam University, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Natella Rakhmanina
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, United States of America
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Atnafu GT, Moges NA, Wubie M, Gedif G. Incidence and Predictors of Viral Load Suppression After Enhanced Adherence Counseling Among HIV-Positive Adults in West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:261-274. [PMID: 35115794 PMCID: PMC8800582 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s341392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Gezahegn Terefe Atnafu
- Anti-Retroviral Treatment Clinic, Dembecha Health Center, Dembecha, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Nurilign Abebe Moges
- Department of Public Health, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Moges Wubie
- Department of Public Health, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Getnet Gedif
- Department of Public Health, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: Getnet Gedif Department of Public Health, Debre Markos University, P.O.Box: 251-269, Debre Markos, Amhara Region, EthiopiaTel +251-58-771-4281Fax +251-58-771-1764 Email
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Study of the Factors that Influence Low-Level Viremias in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Patients in a Tertiary Hospital. INFECTIOUS DISEASES IN CLINICAL PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/ipc.0000000000001076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Audi C, Jahanpour O, Antelman G, Guay L, Rutaihwa M, van de Ven R, Woelk G, Baird SJ. Facilitators and barriers to antiretroviral therapy adherence among HIV-positive adolescents living in Tanzania. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2274. [PMID: 34903209 PMCID: PMC8670050 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12323-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with HIV face substandard outcomes along the continuum of care, including higher rates of poor adherence and virologic failure. Support groups have been identified as a method to improve adherence, but there is insufficient evidence regarding their effectiveness. This study seeks to examine the protective influences for and barriers to antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence in HIV-positive adolescents living in Tanzania. METHODS This is a qualitative study conducted in Tanzania from January to March 2018. The sample of adolescents aged 10-19 (n = 33) was purposefully selected based on age, gender, and support group attendance to capture a broad range of experiences. Participants completed an in-depth interview, covering topics such as retention in HIV services, support group experiences, and joys and challenges of adolescent life. Interviews were coded and themes related to ART adherence were identified and summarized. RESULTS Support groups helped promote adherence by improving adolescents' knowledge and confidence. Participants associated joining support groups with an improvement in health. Almost every participant described the significant positive influence a treatment supporter had on adherence. Adolescents' daily schedules and emotional state served as a barrier to adherence. Furthermore, adherence was negatively impacted by participants' fear of accidental disclosure. CONCLUSION Logistical and psychosocial factors can hinder adherence. Interventions that provide both education and psychosocial support, such as peer support groups, have the potential to improve health outcomes for this population, but may not address more persistent barriers to adherence rooted in lack of treatment support from family members or friends who have not been disclosed to, or lack of transportation funds/food security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosette Audi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20036, USA.
| | - Ola Jahanpour
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Gretchen Antelman
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20036, USA
| | - Laura Guay
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20036, USA
| | - Mastidia Rutaihwa
- National AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Godfrey Woelk
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite #200, Washington, DC, 20036, USA
| | - Sarah J Baird
- Department of Global Health, George Washington University, Washington, D.C., USA
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Maena J, Banke-Thomas A, Mukiza N, Kuteesa CN, Kakumba RM, Kataike H, Kizito S, Babirye JA, Nakalega R. Determinants of viral load non-suppression among adolescents in Mbale District, Eastern Rural Uganda. AIDS Res Ther 2021; 18:91. [PMID: 34863196 PMCID: PMC8642852 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-021-00408-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents are lagging behind in the "third 95" objective of the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS requiring 95% of individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART) to have viral load (VL) suppression. This study aimed to describe factors associated with viral non-suppression among adolescents in Mbale district, Uganda. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of routinely collected HIV programme records. Data such as age, education, ART Regimen, ART duration, WHO Clinical stage, comorbidities, etc., were extracted from medical records for the period January 2018 to December 2018. Descriptive analysis was done for continuous variables using means and frequencies to describe study sample characteristics, and to determine the prevalence of outcome variables. We used logistic regression to assess factors associated with VL non-suppression among adolescents. RESULTS The analysis included 567 HIV-infected adolescents, with 300 (52.9%) aged between 13 to 15 years, 335 (59.1%) female, and mean age of 15.6 years (interquartile range [IQR] 13.5-17.8. VL non-suppression was 31.4% (178/567). Male sex (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.06, 2.99; p < 0.01), age 16-19 years (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.06, 2.99; p < 0.05), No formal education (AOR = 3.67, 95% CI 1.48-9.09; p < 0.01), primary education (AOR = 2.23, 95% CI 1.05-2.32; p < 0.01), ART duration of > 12 months to 5 years (AOR = 3.20, 95% CI 1.31-7.82; p < 0.05), ART duration > 5 years (AOR = 3.47, 95% CI 1.39- 8.66; p < 0.01), WHO Clinical Stage II (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.82; p < 0.01), second-line ART regimen (AOR = 2.38, 95% CI 1.53-3.72; p < 0.001) and comorbidities (AOR = 3.28, 95% CI 1.20-9.00; p < 0.05) were significantly associated with viral non-suppression. CONCLUSIONS VL non-suppression among adolescents was almost comparable to the national average. VL non-suppression was associated with being male, age 16-19 years, education level, duration on ART therapy, WHO Clinical Staging II, second-line ART regimen, and presence of comorbidities. Adolescent-friendly strategies to improve VL suppression e.g. peer involvement, VL focal persons to identify and actively follow-up non-suppressed adolescents, patient education on VL suppression and demand creation for ART are needed, especially for newly-initiated adolescents and adolescents on ART for protracted periods, to foster attainment of the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Maena
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Aduragbemi Banke-Thomas
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | - Hajira Kataike
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Samuel Kizito
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, USA
| | - Juliet Allen Babirye
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rita Nakalega
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
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Siedner MJ, Moosa MYS, McCluskey S, Gilbert RF, Pillay S, Aturinda I, Ard K, Muyindike W, Musinguzi N, Masette G, Pillay M, Moodley P, Brijkumar J, Rautenberg T, George G, Gandhi RT, Johnson BA, Sunpath H, Bwana MB, Marconi VC. Resistance Testing for Management of HIV Virologic Failure in Sub-Saharan Africa : An Unblinded Randomized Controlled Trial. Ann Intern Med 2021; 174:1683-1692. [PMID: 34698502 PMCID: PMC8688215 DOI: 10.7326/m21-2229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virologic failure in HIV predicts the development of drug resistance and mortality. Genotypic resistance testing (GRT), which is the standard of care after virologic failure in high-income settings, is rarely implemented in sub-Saharan Africa. OBJECTIVE To estimate the effectiveness of GRT for improving virologic suppression rates among people with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa for whom first-line therapy fails. DESIGN Pragmatic, unblinded, randomized controlled trial. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02787499). SETTING Ambulatory HIV clinics in the public sector in Uganda and South Africa. PATIENTS Adults receiving first-line antiretroviral therapy with a recent HIV RNA viral load of 1000 copies/mL or higher. INTERVENTION Participants were randomly assigned to receive standard of care (SOC), including adherence counseling sessions and repeated viral load testing, or immediate GRT. MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome of interest was achievement of an HIV RNA viral load below 200 copies/mL 9 months after enrollment. RESULTS The trial enrolled 840 persons, divided equally between countries. Approximately half (51%) were women. Most (72%) were receiving a regimen of tenofovir, emtricitabine, and efavirenz at enrollment. The rate of virologic suppression did not differ 9 months after enrollment between the GRT group (63% [263 of 417]) and SOC group (61% [256 of 423]; odds ratio [OR], 1.11 [95% CI, 0.83 to 1.49]; P = 0.46). Among participants with persistent failure (HIV RNA viral load ≥1000 copies/mL) at 9 months, the prevalence of drug resistance was higher in the SOC group (76% [78 of 103] vs. 59% [48 of 82]; OR, 2.30 [CI, 1.22 to 4.35]; P = 0.014). Other secondary outcomes, including 9-month survival and retention in care, were similar between groups. LIMITATION Participants were receiving nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based therapy at enrollment, limiting the generalizability of the findings. CONCLUSION The addition of GRT to routine care after first-line virologic failure in Uganda and South Africa did not improve rates of resuppression. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Siedner
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda, Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, and University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa (M.J.S.)
| | | | - Suzanne McCluskey
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (S.M., K.A., R.T.G.)
| | | | - Selvan Pillay
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa (M.S.M., S.P., J.B., G.G., H.S.)
| | - Isaac Aturinda
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda (I.A., W.M., N.M., G.M., M.B.B.)
| | - Kevin Ard
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (S.M., K.A., R.T.G.)
| | - Winnie Muyindike
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda (I.A., W.M., N.M., G.M., M.B.B.)
| | - Nicholas Musinguzi
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda (I.A., W.M., N.M., G.M., M.B.B.)
| | - Godfrey Masette
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda (I.A., W.M., N.M., G.M., M.B.B.)
| | - Melendhran Pillay
- National Health Laboratory Service, Durban, South Africa (M.P., P.M.)
| | | | - Jaysingh Brijkumar
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa (M.S.M., S.P., J.B., G.G., H.S.)
| | | | - Gavin George
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa (M.S.M., S.P., J.B., G.G., H.S.)
| | - Rajesh T Gandhi
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (S.M., K.A., R.T.G.)
| | | | - Henry Sunpath
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa (M.S.M., S.P., J.B., G.G., H.S.)
| | - Mwebesa B Bwana
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda (I.A., W.M., N.M., G.M., M.B.B.)
| | - Vincent C Marconi
- Emory University School of Medicine and Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia (V.C.M.)
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Mwangi A, van Wyk B. Factors Associated with Viral Suppression Among Adolescents on Antiretroviral Therapy in Homa Bay County, Kenya: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2021; 13:1111-1118. [PMID: 34992469 PMCID: PMC8713714 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s345731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the success in initiating adolescents living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART), questions remain about factors affecting viral suppression. In Kenya, only 63% of adolescents (aged 10–19 years) on ART had achieved viral suppression in 2016. We investigated factors associated with viral suppression among adolescents initiated on ART before November 30, 2017 in Homa Bay County, Kenya. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 908 adolescents registered on ART for at least 6 months and with at least one documented viral load in the last 12 months, in six health facilities in Homa Bay County was conducted. Data were extracted from the electronic medical records and exported into an excel spreadsheet. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with viral suppression and adjust for confounding, using Stata 12.0. Results Out of all participants, 80% (726) had achieved viral suppression (<1,000 copies of viral RNA/mL of blood at latest viral load count). After adjusting for other covariates, adolescents with good adherence to ART (AOR=2.3, 95% CI=1.38–3.84) and a most recent CD4 count of above 500 cells/mm3 (AOR=1.87, 95% CI=1.13–3.08), were more likely to be virally suppressed. Adolescents on second line ART treatment (AOR=0.45, 95% CI=0.28–0.73) and having inadequate adherence to ART (AOR=0.26, 95% CI=0.11–63) were less likely to be virally suppressed. Conclusion Viral suppression for adolescents on ART in this study is significantly higher than the national prevalence in 2016 (80% vs 63%), but it is still below the WHO target of 90%. Enhanced adherence support for adolescents on ART should be implemented to improve long-term adherence. Specific interventions are needed to “rescue” adolescents on second-line ART regimens who may have a history of poor adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mwangi
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Western Cape Province, South Africa
| | - Brian van Wyk
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Western Cape Province, South Africa
- Correspondence: Brian van Wyk Tel +27 82 8049055 Email
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Shumetie A, Moges NA, Teshome M, Gedif G. Determinants of Virological Failure Among HIV-Infected Children on First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy in West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2021; 13:1035-1044. [PMID: 34934365 PMCID: PMC8684387 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s334067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Viral load monitoring is a golden indicator for diagnosing treatment failure in patients with HIV. HIV-infected children are considered a priority group for routine viral load monitoring. Globally, the World Health Organization recommends 95% of HIV patients have viral suppression. Factors leading to virological failure are not well understood and studied. This study aimed to determine virological failure among HIV-infected children on first-line antiretroviral therapy in the West Gojjam Zone, Amhara region. Ethiopia. Methods An institutional-based unmatched case–control study was carried out from October 1 to October 15, 2020, among HIV-infected children on first-line antiretroviral therapy. The study included 94 cases and 276 controls, with a total sample size of 370 out of 378 HIV-infected children. A structured English version checklist was used to collect data through chart review. The data were entered using Epi-data 4.2 and exported into SPSS version 20 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were conducted to summarize the sample characteristics. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to describe each explanatory variable’s association with the outcome variable. A bivariate analysis with a p-value < 0.25 was selected for multivariate analysis. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals was conducted, and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Non-disclosure (AOR = 4.26; 95% CI: 2.09, 8.70), baseline viral load >1000 copies/mL (AOR = 10.82; 95% CI: 5.4, 21.67), recent poor adherence (AOR, 6.05, 95% CI, 1.70, 21.55) and missed clinical appointments (AOR = 8.03; 95% CI: 3.88, 16.65) were factors independently associated with virological failure. Conclusion Disclosure of HIV status of patients early, according to their age and adherence to counseling, should be emphasized. Efforts should be strengthened to trace back for missed clinical appointments and strictly follow-up with antiretroviral (ARV) medication for a baseline viral load >1000 copies/mL that helps to boost immunity and suppress viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awoke Shumetie
- Agut Antiretroviral Treatment Clinic, Agut Health Center, Gish Abay, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Nurilign Abebe Moges
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Muluken Teshome
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Getnet Gedif
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: Getnet Gedif P.O.Box: +251269Tel +251-918-06-66-03 Email ;
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Lukyamuzi Z, Etajak S, Katairo T, Mukunya D, Tetui M, Ssenyonjo A, Wanyenze RK. Effect and implementation experience of intensive adherence counseling in a public HIV care center in Uganda: a mixed-methods study. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1168. [PMID: 34798852 PMCID: PMC8602885 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06862-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intensive adherence counseling (IAC) is an intervention recommended by the World Health Organization to improve anti-retroviral therapy (ART) adherence among people living with HIV on ART with unsuppressed viral load; and in 2016, the intervention was implemented in Uganda. This study evaluated the effect and experiences of providing IAC in an urban HIV care center in Kampala, Uganda. Methods This was a sequential explanatory mixed-method study that compared viral load suppression during IAC implementation (intervention) to the period before IAC at Kisenyi Health centre IV. Data were abstracted from patient files and viral load register. The effect of IAC on viral load suppression and associated factors were analyzed using modified Poisson regression with robust standard errors. Using in-depth interviews and an inductive analysis approach in Atlas-ti 8. We also explored experiences of providing IAC among healthcare workers. Results A total of 500 records were sampled: 249 (49.8%) in the intervention period and 251 (51.2%) in the pre-intervention period. The mean age was lower during the intervention period 33.1 (± 12.0) than 36.5 (± 13.4) in the pre- intervention period, p = 0.002. More clients were currently on Protease-based regimen in the pre-intervention period 179 (71.3%) than 135 (54.2%) in the intervention period, p ≤ 0.001. In the intervention period, all eligible clients received IAC [249/249 (100.0%)]. Overall, 325 (65.0%) received IAC and of these, 143 (44.1%) achieved viral load suppression compared to 46 (26.3%) who received regular counseling. Receiving IAC significantly increased viral load suppression by 22% (aPR 1.22, 95% CI 1.01–1.47). Clients on Protease-based regimen were less likely to suppress than those on Efavirenz or Nevirapine-based regimens (aPR 0.11, 95% CI 0.08–0.15). All the interviewed healthcare workers lauded IAC for improving ART adherence. However, patient and health care system related factors hindered adherence during IAC. Conclusions The full potential of IAC in achieving viral load suppression in this setting has not been reached due to a combination of the patient and health care system related factors. Provision of adequate IAC necessities and use of patient centered approach should be emphasized to obtain the maximum benefit of the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zubair Lukyamuzi
- Makerere University, Johns Hopkins University Collaboration (MU-JHU), Upper Mulago Hill Road, Kampala, Uganda. .,Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Samuel Etajak
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Thomas Katairo
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Mukunya
- Busitema University Faculty of Health Sciences, Mbale, Uganda.,Sanyu Africa Research Institute, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Moses Tetui
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda.,School of Pharmacy, Waterloo University, Waterloo, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Aloysius Ssenyonjo
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rhoda K Wanyenze
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
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Time to First-Line Antiretroviral Treatment Failure and Its Predictors among HIV-Positive Children in Shashemene Town Health Facilities, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, 2019. ScientificWorldJournal 2021; 2021:8868479. [PMID: 34456635 PMCID: PMC8387160 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8868479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
With expanding pediatric antiretroviral therapy access, children will begin to experience treatment failure and require second-line therapy. In resource-limited settings, treatment failure is often diagnosed based on the clinical or immunological criteria which occur way after the occurrence of virological failure. Previous limited studies have evaluated immunological and clinical failure without considering virological failure in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to investigate time to first-line antiretroviral treatment failure and its predictors in Shashamene town health facilities with a focus on virological criteria. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in three health facilities of Shashamene town, Oromia Regional State, from March 1 to 26, 2019. Children aged less than 15 years living with HIV/AIDS that were enrolled on ART between January 1, 2011, and December 30, 2015, in Shashamene town health facilities were the study population. Data were extracted using a checklist, entered into EpiData version 3.1, and exported to SPSS version 20 for data analysis. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to determine the predictors of time to first-line treatment failure. Result. The median survival time to virological failure was 30 months with IQR of 24.42 to 44.25. Baseline WHO stages 3 and 4 with AHR = 5.69 (95% CI: 2.07–15.66) and NVP-based NNRT at initial treatment with AHR = 2.72 (1.13–6.54) were the independent predictors of time to treatment failure. Conclusion. The median survival time of first-line antiretroviral treatment failure was moderate in the study area as compared to other studies. The incidence density of treatment failure in this study was low as compared to other studies. The finding also demonstrated that children treated with nevirapine-based nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors at initial and advanced WHO clinical stages at baseline were at higher risk of treatment failure.
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50
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Afrane AKA, Goka BQ, Renner L, Yawson AE, Alhassan Y, Owiafe SN, Agyeman S, Sagoe KWC, Kwara A. HIV virological non-suppression and its associated factors in children on antiretroviral therapy at a major treatment centre in Southern Ghana: a cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:731. [PMID: 34340689 PMCID: PMC8330060 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06459-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection require lifelong effective antiretroviral therapy (ART). The goal of ART in HIV-infected persons is sustained viral suppression. There is limited information on virological non-suppression or failure and its associated factors in children in resource limited countries, particularly Ghana. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 250 children aged 8 months to 15 years who had been on ART for at least 6 months attending the Paediatric HIV clinic at Korle Bu Teaching hospital in Ghana was performed. Socio-demographic, clinical, laboratory and ART Adherence related data were collected using questionnaires as well as medical records review. Blood samples were obtained for viral load and CD4+ count determination. Viral load levels > 1000 copies/ml on ART was considered virological non-suppression. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with virological non-suppression. RESULTS The mean (±SD) age of the study participants was 11.4 ± 2.4 years and the proportion of males was 53.2%. Of the 250 study participants, 96 (38.4%) had virological non-suppression. After adjustment for significant variables, the factors associated with non-suppressed viral load were female gender (AOR 2.51 [95% CI 1.04-6.07], p = 0.041), having a previous history of treatment of tuberculosis (AOR 4.95 [95% CI 1.58-15.5], p = 0.006), severe CD4 immune suppression status at study recruitment (AOR 24.93 [95% CI 4.92-126.31], p < 0.001) and being on a nevirapine (NVP) based regimen (AOR 7.93 [95% CI 1.58-1.15], p = 0.005). CONCLUSION The prevelance of virological non-suppression was high. Virological non-suppression was associated with a previous history of TB treatment, female gender, severe CD4 immune suppression status at study recruitment and being on a NVP based regimen. Early initiation of ART and phasing out NVP-based regimen might improve viral load suppression in children. In addition, children with a history of TB may need focused measures to maximize virological suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adwoa K A Afrane
- Department of Child Health, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Bamenla Q Goka
- Department of Child Health, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Child Health, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lorna Renner
- Department of Child Health, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Child Health, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Alfred E Yawson
- Department of Community Health, University of Ghana Medical School, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Yakubu Alhassan
- Department of Health Policy Planning and Management, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Seth N Owiafe
- Department of Child Health, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - Seth Agyeman
- Department of Immunology, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kwamena W C Sagoe
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Awewura Kwara
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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