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Ostermann J, Njau B, van Zwetselaar M, Yamanis T, McClimans L, Mwangi R, Beti M, Hobbie A, Gass SJ, Mtuy T, Thielman N. Mobile Phone-Based Confidential Social Network Referrals for HIV Testing (CONSORT): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e55068. [PMID: 38814692 PMCID: PMC11176874 DOI: 10.2196/55068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Critical to efforts to end the HIV epidemic is the identification of persons living with HIV who have yet to be diagnosed and engaged in care. Expanded HIV testing outreach efforts need to be both efficient and ambitious, targeting the social networks of persons living with HIV and those at above-average risk of undiagnosed HIV infection. The ubiquity of mobile phones across many high HIV prevalence settings has created opportunities to leverage mobile health (mHealth) technologies to engage social networks for HIV testing outreach, prevention, and treatment. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to evaluate the acceptability and efficacy of a novel mHealth intervention, "Confidential Social Network Referrals for HIV Testing (CONSORT)," to nudge at-risk individuals to test for HIV using SMS text messages. METHODS We will conduct the CONSORT study in Moshi, Tanzania, the commercial center and administrative capital of the Kilimanjaro Region in northern Tanzania. After qualitative formative work and pilot testing, we will enroll 400 clients presenting for HIV counseling and testing and 200 persons living with HIV and receiving care at HIV care and treatment centers as "inviters" into a randomized controlled trial. Eligible participants will be aged 18 years or older and live, work, or regularly receive care in Moshi. We will randomize inviters into 1 of 2 study arms. All inviters will be asked to complete a survey of their HIV testing and risk behaviors and to think of social network contacts who would benefit from HIV testing. They will then be asked to whom they would prefer to extend an HIV testing invitation in the form of a physical invitation card. Arm 1 participants will also be given the opportunity to extend CONSORT invitations in the form of automated confidential SMS text messages to any of their social network contacts or "invitees." Arm 2 participants will be offered physical invitation cards alone. The primary outcome will be counselor-documented uptake of HIV testing by invitees within 30 days of inviter enrollment. Secondary outcomes will include the acceptability of CONSORT among inviters, the number of new HIV diagnoses, and the HIV risk of invitees who present for testing. RESULTS Enrollment in the randomized controlled trial is expected to start in September 2024. The findings will be disseminated to stakeholders and published in peer-reviewed journals. CONCLUSIONS If CONSORT is acceptable and effective for increasing the uptake of HIV testing, given the minimal costs of SMS text reminders and the potential for exponential but targeted growth using chain referrals, it may shift current practices for HIV testing programs in the area. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClincalTrials.gov NCT05967208; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05967208. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/55068.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Ostermann
- Department of Health Services Policy & Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Bernard Njau
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | | | - Thespina Yamanis
- School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Leah McClimans
- Department of Philosophy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Rose Mwangi
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Melkiory Beti
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Amy Hobbie
- Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, SC, United States
| | - Salomé-Joelle Gass
- Department of Health Services Policy & Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Tara Mtuy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nathan Thielman
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
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Mbira TE, Kufa T, Sherman GG, Ngandu NK. Compliance to Viral Load Monitoring Schedules Among Women Attending Prevention of Vertical HIV Transmission Services Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ehlanzeni District, Mpumalanga, South Africa. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:868-885. [PMID: 37831233 PMCID: PMC10896817 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04192-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral load (VL) monitoring was likely interrupted during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We used routine data on repeat VL testing among 667 prevention of vertical HIV transmission (PVT) clients in Ehlanzeni district, to determine compliance to VL testing recommendations and associated factors during different time periods: pre-COVID-19, transition, and COVID-19. Descriptive and multivariable Poisson regression analyses were conducted, with and without including revised PVT-guidelines rolled out in January-2020. Among 405 women with ≥ 2 VL tests, the overall median age was 30 years (interquartile range: 26-35 years). Compliance to recommended VL testing guidelines ranged between 81.5% (172/211) and 92.3% (191/207) at different time periods. Across all three periods and when revised PVT-guidelines were used, being compliant was significantly reduced among those with earliest VL = 50-999 copies/ml (incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 0.71 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61-0.82], p value < 0.001) and VL ≥ 1000 copies/ml (IRR = 0.18 [95% CI 0.09-0.36], p value < 0.001). When guideline revisions were excluded, compliance was only significantly reduced among those with VL ≥ 1000 copies/ml (IRR = 0.14 [95% CI 0.06-0.32], p value < 0.001) and increased during the COVID-19 period versus pre-COVID-19 (IRR = 1.10 [95% CI 1.05-1.15], p value < 0.001). Similar significant associations between compliance and VL level were observed when the COVID-19 period was analyzed separately. Significantly increased compliance to VL testing among the 25-34 years age-group versus younger women was also observed across all periods. These results highlight the importance of strengthening strategies such as short message service reminders and educational messaging, reaching all age-groups, to fast-track implementation targets for VL monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thandiwe Elsie Mbira
- HIV and Other Infectious Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tendesayi Kufa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Gayle Gillian Sherman
- Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nobubelo Kwanele Ngandu
- HIV and Other Infectious Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Wagner AD, Njuguna IN, Neary J, Lawley KA, Louden DKN, Tiwari R, Jiang W, Kalu N, Burke RM, Mangale D, Obermeyer C, Escudero JN, Bulterys MA, Waters C, Mollo B, Han H, Barr-DiChiara M, Baggaley R, Jamil MS, Shah P, Wong VJ, Drake AL, Johnson CC. Demand creation for HIV testing services: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Med 2023; 20:e1004169. [PMID: 36943831 PMCID: PMC10030044 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV testing services (HTS) are the first steps in reaching the UNAIDS 95-95-95 goals to achieve and maintain low HIV incidence. Evaluating the effectiveness of different demand creation interventions to increase uptake of efficient and effective HTS is useful to prioritize limited programmatic resources. This review was undertaken to inform World Health Organization (WHO) 2019 HIV testing guidelines and assessed the research question, "Which demand creation strategies are effective for enhancing uptake of HTS?" focused on populations globally. METHODS AND FINDINGS The following electronic databases were searched through September 28, 2021: PubMed, PsycInfo, Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL Complete, Web of Science Core Collection, EMBASE, and Global Health Database; we searched IAS and AIDS conferences. We systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any demand creation intervention (incentives, mobilization, counseling, tailoring, and digital interventions) to either a control or other demand creation intervention and reported HTS uptake. We pooled trials to evaluate categories of demand creation interventions using random-effects models for meta-analysis and assessed study quality with Cochrane's risk of bias 1 tool. This study was funded by the WHO and registered in Prospero with ID CRD42022296947. We screened 10,583 records and 507 conference abstracts, reviewed 952 full texts, and included 124 RCTs for data extraction. The majority of studies were from the African (N = 53) and Americas (N = 54) regions. We found that mobilization (relative risk [RR]: 2.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.30, 3.09], p < 0.05; risk difference [RD]: 0.29, 95% CI [0.16, 0.43], p < 0.05, N = 4 RCTs), couple-oriented counseling (RR: 1.98, 95% CI [1.02, 3.86], p < 0.05; RD: 0.12, 95% CI [0.03, 0.21], p < 0.05, N = 4 RCTs), peer-led interventions (RR: 1.57, 95% CI [1.15, 2.15], p < 0.05; RD: 0.18, 95% CI [0.06, 0.31], p < 0.05, N = 10 RCTs), motivation-oriented counseling (RR: 1.53, 95% CI [1.07, 2.20], p < 0.05; RD: 0.17, 95% CI [0.00, 0.34], p < 0.05, N = 4 RCTs), short message service (SMS) (RR: 1.53, 95% CI [1.09, 2.16], p < 0.05; RD: 0.11, 95% CI [0.03, 0.19], p < 0.05, N = 5 RCTs), and conditional fixed value incentives (RR: 1.52, 95% CI [1.21, 1.91], p < 0.05; RD: 0.15, 95% CI [0.07, 0.22], p < 0.05, N = 11 RCTs) all significantly and importantly (≥50% relative increase) increased HTS uptake and had medium risk of bias. Lottery-based incentives and audio-based interventions less importantly (25% to 49% increase) but not significantly increased HTS uptake (medium risk of bias). Personal invitation letters and personalized message content significantly but not importantly (<25% increase) increased HTS uptake (medium risk of bias). Reduced duration counseling had comparable performance to standard duration counseling (low risk of bias) and video-based interventions were comparable or better than in-person counseling (medium risk of bias). Heterogeneity of effect among pooled studies was high. This study was limited in that we restricted to randomized trials, which may be systematically less readily available for key populations; additionally, we compare only pooled estimates for interventions with multiple studies rather than single study estimates, and there was evidence of publication bias for several interventions. CONCLUSIONS Mobilization, couple- and motivation-oriented counseling, peer-led interventions, conditional fixed value incentives, and SMS are high-impact demand creation interventions and should be prioritized for programmatic consideration. Reduced duration counseling and video-based interventions are an efficient and effective alternative to address staffing shortages. Investment in demand creation activities should prioritize those with undiagnosed HIV or ongoing HIV exposure. Selection of demand creation interventions must consider risks and benefits, context-specific factors, feasibility and sustainability, country ownership, and universal health coverage across disease areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjuli D. Wagner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Irene N. Njuguna
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jillian Neary
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Kendall A. Lawley
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Diana K. N. Louden
- University Libraries, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ruchi Tiwari
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Wenwen Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ngozi Kalu
- Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rachael M. Burke
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Dorothy Mangale
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Chris Obermeyer
- The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jaclyn N. Escudero
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Michelle A. Bulterys
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Chloe Waters
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Bastien Mollo
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department, Bichat-Claude Bernard Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Hannah Han
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | - Rachel Baggaley
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Muhammad S. Jamil
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Purvi Shah
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
- UNAIDS, Asia Pacific, Regional Support Team, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Vincent J. Wong
- USAID, Division of HIV Prevention, Care and Treatment, Office of HIV/AIDS, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Alison L. Drake
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Cheryl C. Johnson
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Bose DL, Hundal A, Singh S, Singh S, Seth K, Hadi SU, Saran A, Joseph J, Goyal K, Salve S. Evidence and gap map report: Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) interventions for strengthening HIV prevention and research among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2023; 19:e1297. [PMID: 36911864 PMCID: PMC9831290 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), aged 15-24 years, are disproportionately affected by HIV and other sexual and reproductive health (SRH) risks due to varying social, cultural, and economic factors that affect their choices and shape their knowledge, understanding, and practices with regard to their health. Socio-Behavioral Change Communication (SBCC) interventions targeted at strengthening the capabilities of individuals and their networks have supported the demand and uptake of prevention services and participation in biomedical research. However, despite growing global recognition of the domain, high-quality evidence on the effectiveness of SBCC remains scattered. This evidence and gap map (EGM) report characterizes the evidence base on SBCC interventions for strengthening HIV Prevention and Research among AGYW in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), identifying evidence gaps and outlining the scope of future research and program design. OBJECTIVES The objectives of the proposed EGM are to: (a) identify and map existing EGMs in the use of diverse SBCC strategies to strengthen the adoption of HIV prevention measures and participation in research among AGYW in LMICs and (b) identify areas where more interventions and evidence are needed to inform the design of future SBCC strategies and programs for AGYW engagement in HIV prevention and research. METHODS This EGM is based on a comprehensive search of systematic reviews and impact evaluations corresponding to a range of interventions and outcomes-aimed at engaging AGYW in HIV prevention and research - that were published in LMICs from January 2000 to April 2021. Based on guidance for producing a Campbell Collaboration EGM, the intervention and outcome framework was designed in consultation with a group of experts. These interventions were categorized across four broad intervention themes: mass-media, community-based, interpersonal, and Information Communication and Technology (ICT)/Digital Media-based interventions. They were further sub-categorized into 15 intervention categories. Included studies looked at 23 unique behavioral and health outcomes such as knowledge attitude and skills, relationship dynamics, household dynamics, health care services, and health outcomes and research engagement. The EGM is presented as a matrix in which the rows are intervention categories/sub-categories, and the columns are outcome domains/subdomains. Each cell is mapped to an intervention targeted at outcomes. Additional filters like region, country, study design, age group, funding agency, influencers, population group, publication status, study confidence, setting, and year of publication have been added. SELECTION CRITERIA To be eligible, studies must have tested the effectiveness of SBCC interventions at engaging AGYW in LMICs in HIV prevention and research. The study sample must have consisted of AGYW between the ages of 15-24, as defined by UNAIDS. Both experimental (random assignment) and quasi-experimental studies that included a comparison group were eligible. Relevant outcomes included those at the individual, influencer, and institutional levels, along with those targeting research engagement and prevention-related outcomes. RESULTS This EGM comprises 415 impact evaluations and 43 systematic reviews. Interventions like peer-led interactions, counseling, and community dialogues were the most dominant intervention sub-types. Despite increased digital penetration use of media and technology-driven interventions are relatively less studied. Most of the interventions were delivered by peers, health care providers, and educators, largely in school-based settings, and in many cases are part of sex-education curricula. Evidence across geographies was mostly concentrated in Sub-Saharan Africa (70%). Most measured outcomes focused on disease-related knowledge dissemination and enhancing awareness of available prevention options/strategies. These included messaging around consistent condom use, limiting sexual partners, routine testing, and awareness. Very few studies were able to include psychographic, social, and contextual factors influencing AGYW health behaviors and decisions, especially those measuring the impact of social and gender norms, relationship dynamics, and household dynamics-related outcomes. Outcomes related to engagement in the research were least studied. CONCLUSION This EGM highlights that evidence is heavily concentrated within the awareness-intent spectrum of behavior change and gets lean for outcomes situated within the intent-action and the action-habit formation spectrum of the behavior change continuum. Most of the evidence was concentrated on increasing awareness, knowledge, and building risk perception around SRH domains, however, fewer studies focused on strengthening the agency and self-efficacy of individuals. Similarly, evidence on extrinsic factors-such as strengthening social and community norms, relationships, and household dynamics-that determine individual thought and action such as negotiation and life skills were also found to be less populated. Few studies explore the effectiveness of these interventions across diverse AGYW identities, like pregnant women and new mothers, sex workers, and people living with HIV, leading to limited understanding of the use of these interventions across multiple user segments including key influencers such as young men, partners, families, religious leaders, and community elders was relatively low. There is a need for better quality evidence that accounts for the diversity of experiences within these populations to understand what interventions work, for whom, and toward what outcome. Further, the evidence for use of digital and mass-media tools remains poorly populated. Given the increasing penetration of these tools and growing media literacy on one end, with widening gender-based gaps on the other, it is imperative to gather more high-quality evidence on their effectiveness. Timely evidence generation can help leverage these platforms appropriately and enable intervention designs that are responsive to changing communication ecologies of AGYW. SBCC can play a critical role in helping researchers meaningfully engage and collaborate with communities as equal stakeholders, however, this remains poorly evidenced and calls for investigation and investment. A full list of abbreviations and acronyms are available in Supporting Information: Appendix F.
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Free C, Palmer MJ, Potter K, McCarthy OL, Jerome L, Berendes S, Gubijev A, Knight M, Jamal Z, Dhaliwal F, Carpenter JR, Morris TP, Edwards P, French R, Macgregor L, Turner KME, Baraitser P, Hickson FCI, Wellings K, Roberts I, Bailey JV, Hart G, Michie S, Clayton T, Devries K. Behavioural intervention to reduce sexually transmitted infections in people aged 16–24 years in the UK: the safetxt RCT. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.3310/dane8826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
The prevalence of genital chlamydia and gonorrhoea is higher in the 16–24 years age group than those in other age group. With users, we developed the theory-based safetxt intervention to reduce sexually transmitted infections.
Objectives
To establish the effect of the safetxt intervention on the incidence of chlamydia/gonorrhoea infection at 1 year.
Design
A parallel-group, individual-level, randomised superiority trial in which care providers and outcome assessors were blinded to allocation.
Setting
Recruitment was from 92 UK sexual health clinics.
Participants
Inclusion criteria were a positive chlamydia or gonorrhoea test result, diagnosis of non-specific urethritis or treatment started for chlamydia/gonorrhoea/non-specific urethritis in the last 2 weeks; owning a personal mobile phone; and being aged 16–24 years.
Allocation
Remote computer-based randomisation with an automated link to the messaging system delivering intervention or control group messages.
Intervention
The safetxt intervention was designed to reduce sexually transmitted infection by increasing partner notification, condom use and sexually transmitted infection testing before sex with new partners. It employed educational, enabling and incentivising content delivered by 42–79 text messages over 1 year, tailored according to type of infection, gender and sexuality.
Comparator
A monthly message regarding trial participation.
Main outcomes
The primary outcome was the incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhoea infection at 12 months, assessed using nucleic acid amplification tests. Secondary outcomes at 1 and 12 months included self-reported partner notification, condom use and sexually transmitted infection testing prior to sex with new partner(s).
Results
Between 1 April 2016 and 23 November 2018, we assessed 20,476 people for eligibility and consented and randomised 6248 participants, allocating 3123 to the safetxt intervention and 3125 to the control. Primary outcome data were available for 4675 (74.8%) participants. The incidence of chlamydia/gonorrhoea infection was 22.2% (693/3123) in the intervention group and 20.3% (633/3125) in the control group (odds ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 0.98 to 1.31). There was no evidence of heterogeneity in any of the prespecified subgroups. Partner notification was 85.6% in the intervention group and 84.0% in the control group (odds ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval 0.99 to 1.33). At 12 months, condom use at last sex was 33.8% in the intervention group and 31.2% in the control group (odds ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.28) and condom use at first sex with most recent new partner was 54.4% in the intervention group and 48.7% in the control group (odds ratio 1.27, 95% confidence interval 1.11 to 1.45). Testing before sex with a new partner was 39.5% in the intervention group and 40.9% in the control group (odds ratio 0.95, 95% confidence interval 0.82 to 1.10). Having two or more partners since joining the trial was 56.9% in the intervention group and 54.8% in the control group (odds ratio 1.11, 95% confidence interval 1.00 to 1.24) and having sex with someone new since joining the trial was 69.7% in the intervention group and 67.4% in the control group (odds ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 1.00 to 1.28). There were no differences in safety outcomes. Additional sensitivity and per-protocol analyses showed similar results.
Limitations
Our understanding of the mechanism of action for the unanticipated effects is limited.
Conclusions
The safetxt intervention did not reduce chlamydia and gonorrhoea infections, with slightly more infections in the intervention group. The intervention increased condom use but also increased the number of partners and new partners. Randomised controlled trials are essential for evaluating health communication interventions, which can have unanticipated effects.
Future work
Randomised controlled trials evaluating novel interventions in this complex area are needed.
Trial registration
This trial is registered as ISRCTN64390461.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Public Health Research programme and will be published in full in Public Health Research; Vol. 11, No. 1. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Free
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Melissa J Palmer
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kimberley Potter
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ona L McCarthy
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lauren Jerome
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sima Berendes
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anasztazia Gubijev
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Megan Knight
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Zahra Jamal
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Farandeep Dhaliwal
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - James R Carpenter
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tim P Morris
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit, London, UK
| | - Phil Edwards
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rebecca French
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Louis Macgregor
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Katy ME Turner
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Ford CI Hickson
- Sigma Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kaye Wellings
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ian Roberts
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Graham Hart
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Michie
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tim Clayton
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Karen Devries
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Ostermann J, Njau B, Masaki M, Mtuy T, Itemba D, Hobbie A, Yelverton V, Moore S, Yamanis T, Thielman NM. Feasibility, Acceptability, and Potential Cost-Effectiveness of a Novel Mobile Phone Intervention to Promote Human Immunodeficiency Virus Testing Within Social Networks in Tanzania. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:778-781. [PMID: 35093981 PMCID: PMC9329485 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001611] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Among 145 individuals surveyed in Tanzania, 42% indicated willingness to test for human immunodeficiency virus in response to a confidential, phone-based text message. On average, participants were likely to provide contact information for 1.5 members of their social networks, suggesting high feasibility and moderate acceptability of a novel mHealth human immunodeficiency virus testing intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bernard Njau
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Martha Masaki
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Amy Hobbie
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | | | - Spencer Moore
- Department of Social Sciences, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Thespina Yamanis
- School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC
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Community Mobilization is Associated with HIV Testing Behaviors and Their Psychosocial Antecedents Among Zambian Adults: Results from a Population-Based Study. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:1682-1693. [PMID: 36307741 PMCID: PMC10140187 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03900-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Community mobilization (CM) is a vital yet under-explored avenue for increasing HIV testing in generalized HIV epidemic settings. Using multi-stage cluster sampling, a population-based sample of 3535 Zambian adults (mean age: 28 years, 50% women) were recruited from 14 districts to complete a household survey. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to re-validate a 23-item, 5-factor CM scale. Multivariable logistic and Poisson regression were then used to identify associations of CM with HIV testing behaviors and their psychosocial antecedents. A 21-item, 3-factor ("Leadership", "Collective Action Capacity", and "Social Cohesion") CM solution emerged from EFA (Cronbach's α 0.88). Among men and in rural settings, higher CM was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with elevated odds of HIV testing and more past-year HIV testing discussion sources, controlling for socio-demographics and sexual behaviors. Results underscore the importance of prioritizing CM to cultivate more favorable environments for HIV testing uptake, especially for men and rural residents.
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Mkandawire AK, Jumbe V, Nyondo-Mipando AL. To disclose or not: experiences of HIV infected pregnant women in disclosing their HIV status to their male sexual partners in Blantyre, Malawi. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1552. [PMID: 35971103 PMCID: PMC9377067 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13974-4] [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: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV status disclosure is one of the pillars of success of the elimination of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV (eMTCT) program. However, there are challenges associated with it that limit full disclosure. Literature shows that for pregnant women in developing countries, who have been diagnosed with HIV, 16% to 86% disclose their status to their sexual partners. This study explored the experiences of newly diagnosed HIV-infected antenatal women in disclosing their HIV status to their male sexual partners in Blantyre, Malawi. Methods This was a qualitative explanatory multiple case study that was conducted from 2018 to 2019 using in-depth interviews and diaries as data collection tools. We recruited seven newly diagnosed HIV pregnant women who had not disclosed their status to their male sexual partners and were initiated on Option B + strategy of the eMTCT of HIV at Limbe Health Centre. The investigator had 3 contacts with each participant from which data was gathered except for one participant who got lost to follow-up. This study employed content analysis and used a within-case and across-case analysis. Results Women either use facilitated mutual disclosure process or disclosed directly to their male sexual partners. Women were motivated to disclose because they wanted an HIV-free baby, to know the partners' status, and to resolve the gap on how they got infected with HIV. The disclosure process faced challenges such as uncertainty about a partner’s reaction after disclosure, fear of relationship dissolution, and the soberness of the partner. Privacy was an important consideration during the process of disclosure. Following disclosure, male sexual partners either accepted the status immediately after disclosure or initially denied but later accepted. Conclusion This study has shown that newly diagnosed HIV pregnant women accessing eMTCT services have a plan of either to disclose or conceal their HIV status from their male sexual partner and this decision is affected by the nature of relationship that exist between them and their partner. Factors relating to the unborn baby, the relationship as well as to know partners status motivate women to either disclose or conceal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Kalibwe Mkandawire
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi. .,Malawi College of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Vincent Jumbe
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Alinane Linda Nyondo-Mipando
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the impact of clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) on improving HIV testing and diagnosis. DESIGN An original global systematic review (PROSPERO Number: CRD42020175576) of peer-reviewed articles reporting on electronic CDSSs that generate triggers encouraging healthcare providers to perform an HIV test. METHODS Medline, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL and CINAHL EBSCOhost were searched up to 17 November 2020 and reference lists of included articles were checked. Qualitative and quantitative syntheses (using meta-analyses) of identified studies were performed. RESULTS The search identified 1424 records. Twenty-two articles met inclusion criteria (19 of 22 non-HIV endemic settings); 18 clinical and four laboratory-driven reminders. Reminders promoted 'universal' HIV testing for all patients without a known HIV infection and no recent documented HIV test, or 'targeted' HIV testing in patients with clinical risk-factors or specific diagnostic tests. CDSSs increased HIV testing in hospital and nonhospital setting, with the pooled risk-ratio amongst studies reporting comparable outcome measures in hospital settings (n = 3) of 2.57 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.53-4.33, random-effect model] and in nonhospital settings (n = 4) of 2.13 (95% CI 1.78-4.14, random effect model). Results of the clinical impact of CDSSs on HIV diagnosis were mixed. CONCLUSION CDSSs improve HIV testing and may, potentially, improve diagnosis. The data support the broader study of CDSSs in low- and high prevalent HIV settings to determine their precise impact on UNAIDS goals to reach universal HIV testing and treatment coverage.
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Nduva GM, Otieno F, Kimani J, McKinnon LR, Cholette F, Sandstrom P, Graham SM, Price MA, Smith AD, Bailey RC, Hassan AS, Esbjörnsson J, Sanders EJ. Phylogeographic Assessment Reveals Geographic Sources of HIV-1 Dissemination Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Kenya. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:843330. [PMID: 35356525 PMCID: PMC8959701 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.843330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV-1 transmission dynamics involving men who have sex with men (MSM) in Africa are not well understood. We investigated the rates of HIV-1 transmission between MSM across three regions in Kenya: Coast, Nairobi, and Nyanza. We analyzed 372 HIV-1 partial pol sequences sampled during 2006-2019 from MSM in Coast (N = 178, 47.9%), Nairobi (N = 137, 36.8%), and Nyanza (N = 57, 15.3%) provinces in Kenya. Maximum-likelihood (ML) phylogenetics and Bayesian inference were used to determine HIV-1 clusters, evolutionary dynamics, and virus migration rates between geographic regions. HIV-1 sub-subtype A1 (72.0%) was most common followed by subtype D (11.0%), unique recombinant forms (8.9%), subtype C (5.9%), CRF 21A2D (0.8%), subtype G (0.8%), CRF 16A2D (0.3%), and subtype B (0.3%). Forty-six clusters (size range 2-20 sequences) were found-half (50.0%) of which had evidence of extensive HIV-1 mixing among different provinces. Data revealed an exponential increase in infections among MSM during the early-to-mid 2000s and stable or decreasing transmission dynamics in recent years (2017-2019). Phylogeographic inference showed significant (Bayes factor, BF > 3) HIV-1 dissemination from Coast to Nairobi and Nyanza provinces, and from Nairobi to Nyanza province. Strengthening HIV-1 prevention programs to MSM in geographic locations with higher HIV-1 prevalence among MSM (such as Coast and Nairobi) may reduce HIV-1 incidence among MSM in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- George M. Nduva
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Joshua Kimani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Lyle R. McKinnon
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Francois Cholette
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- National Microbiology Laboratory at the JC Wilt Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Paul Sandstrom
- National Microbiology Laboratory at the JC Wilt Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Susan M. Graham
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Matt A. Price
- IAVI, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Adrian D. Smith
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, The University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert C. Bailey
- Nyanza Reproductive Health Society, Kisumu, Kenya
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Amin S. Hassan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Joakim Esbjörnsson
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, The University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Eduard J. Sanders
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, The University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Hyuha GM, Sawe HR, Kilindimo S, Mussa RY, Gulamhussein MA, Rwegoshora SS, Shayo F, Mdundo W, Mfinanga JA, Weber EJ. Feasibility and efficacy of text messaging to promote care among trauma patients screened for HIV at an urban emergency department in Tanzania. Int J Emerg Med 2021; 14:72. [PMID: 34906068 PMCID: PMC8903523 DOI: 10.1186/s12245-021-00395-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the high prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Tanzania, provider-initiated HIV testing for patients attending any health care setting is recommended. However, follow-up and linkage to care by those tested remain poor. We determined the feasibility and efficacy of text messaging to promote follow-up among otherwise healthy trauma patients who underwent provider-initiated HIV testing and counseling at an emergency department (ED) in Tanzania. MATERIAL AND METHODS This randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) ED between September 2019 and February 2020. Adult trauma patients consenting to HIV testing and follow-up text messaging were randomized to standard care (pre-test and post-test counseling) or standard care plus a series of three short message service (SMS) text message reminders for follow-up in an HIV clinic, if positive, or for retesting, if negative. Investigators blinded to the study assignment called participants 2 months after the ED visit if HIV-positive or 4 months if HIV-negative. We compared the proportion of people in the intervention and control groups completing recommended follow-up. Secondary outcomes were the proportion of patients agreeing to testing, proportion of patients agreeing to receiving text messages, and the proportion of HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients in each study arm who followed up. RESULTS Of the 290 patients approached, 255 (87.9%) opted-in for testing and agreed to receive a text message. The median age of the study population was 29 [IQR 24-40] years. There were 127 patients randomized to the intervention group and 128 to the control group. The automated SMS system verified that 381 text messages in total were successfully sent. We traced 242 (94.9%) participants: 124 (51.2%) in the intervention group and 18 (488%) in the control group. A total of 100 (39.2%) subjects reported completing a follow-up visit, of which 77 (60.6%) were from the intervention group and 23 (17.9%) were from the control group (RR = 3.4, 95% CI 2.3-5.0). This resulted in a number needed to treat (NNT) of 2.3. Of the 246 HIV-negative participants, 37% underwent repeat screening: 59% of those in the intervention group and 16% in the control group (RR = 3.7, P = < 0.0001, NNT 2.3). Among the nine positive patients, all five in the intervention group and only three in the controls had follow-up visits. CONCLUSION Automated text message is a feasible and effective way to increase follow-up in HIV-tested individuals in a limited income country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gimbo M Hyuha
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Hendry R Sawe
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. .,Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Said Kilindimo
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Raya Y Mussa
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Masuma A Gulamhussein
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Shamila S Rwegoshora
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Frida Shayo
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Winnie Mdundo
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Juma A Mfinanga
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ellen J Weber
- Emergency Medicine Department, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Availability and Use of Mobile Health Technology for Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Support by Health Workers in the Ashanti Region of Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11071233. [PMID: 34359316 PMCID: PMC8307884 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11071233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mobile health (mHealth) technologies have been identified as promising strategies for improving access to healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. However, the extent of availability and use of mHealth among healthcare professionals in Ghana is not known. The study’s main objective was to examine the availability and use of mHealth for disease diagnosis and treatment support by healthcare professionals in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 285 healthcare professionals across 100 primary healthcare clinics in the Ashanti Region with an adopted survey tool. We obtained data on the participants’ background, available health infrastructure, healthcare workforce competency, ownership of a mobile wireless device, usefulness of mHealth, ease of use of mHealth, user satisfaction, and behavioural intention to use mHealth. Descriptive statistics were conducted to characterise healthcare professionals’ demographics and clinical features. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the influence of the demographic factors on the availability and use of mHealth for disease diagnosis and treatment support. STATA version 15 was used to complete all the statistical analyses. Out of the 285 healthcare professionals, 64.91% indicated that mHealth is available to them, while 35.08% have no access to mHealth. Of the 185 healthcare professionals who have access to mHealth, 98.4% are currently using mHealth to support healthcare delivery. Logistic regression model analysis significantly (p < 0.05) identified that factors such as the availability of mobile wireless devices, phone calls, text messages, and mobile apps are associated with HIV, TB, medication adherence, clinic appointments, and others. There is a significant association between the availability of mobile wireless devices, text messages, phone calls, mobile apps, and their use for disease diagnosis and treatment compliance from the chi-square test analysis. The findings demonstrate a low level of mHealth use for disease diagnosis and treatment support by healthcare professionals at rural clinics. We encourage policymakers to promote the implementation of mHealth in rural clinics.
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Financial incentives and deposit contracts to promote HIV retesting in Uganda: A randomized trial. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003630. [PMID: 33945526 PMCID: PMC8131095 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frequent retesting for HIV among persons at increased risk of HIV infection is critical to early HIV diagnosis of persons and delivery of combination HIV prevention services. There are few evidence-based interventions for promoting frequent retesting for HIV. We sought to determine the effectiveness of financial incentives and deposit contracts in promoting quarterly HIV retesting among adults at increased risk of HIV. METHODS AND FINDINGS In peri-urban Ugandan communities from October to December 2018, we randomized HIV-negative adults with self-reported risk to 1 of 3 strategies to promote HIV retesting: (1) no incentive; (2) cash incentives (US$7) for retesting at 3 and 6 months (total US$14); or (3) deposit contracts: participants could voluntarily deposit US$6 at baseline and at 3 months that would be returned with interest (total US$7) upon retesting at 3 and 6 months (total US$14) or lost if participants failed to retest. The primary outcome was retesting for HIV at both 3 and 6 months. Of 1,482 persons screened for study eligibility following community-based recruitment, 524 participants were randomized to either no incentive (N = 180), incentives (N = 172), or deposit contracts (N = 172): median age was 25 years (IQR: 22 to 30), 44% were women, and median weekly income was US$13.60 (IQR: US$8.16 to US$21.76). Among participants randomized to deposit contracts, 24/172 (14%) made a baseline deposit, and 2/172 (1%) made a 3-month deposit. In intent-to-treat analyses, HIV retesting at both 3 and 6 months was significantly higher in the incentive arm (89/172 [52%]) than either the control arm (33/180 [18%], odds ratio (OR) 4.8, 95% CI: 3.0 to 7.7, p < 0.001) or the deposit contract arm (28/172 [16%], OR 5.5, 95% CI: 3.3 to 9.1, p < 0.001). Among those in the deposit contract arm who made a baseline deposit, 20/24 (83%) retested at 3 months; 11/24 (46%) retested at both 3 and 6 months. Among 282 participants who retested for HIV during the trial, three (1%; 95%CI: 0.2 to 3%) seroconverted: one in the incentive group and two in the control group. Study limitations include measurement of retesting at the clinic where baseline enrollment occurred, only offering clinic-based (rather than community-based) HIV retesting and lack of measurement of retesting after completion of the trial to evaluate sustained retesting behavior. CONCLUSIONS Offering financial incentives to high-risk adults in Uganda resulted in significantly higher HIV retesting. Deposit contracts had low uptake and overall did not increase retesting. As part of efforts to increase early diagnosis of HIV among high-risk populations, strategic use of incentives to promote retesting should receive greater consideration by HIV programs. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02890459.
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Stankevitz K, Nhamo D, Murungu J, Ridgeway K, Mamvuto T, Lenzi R, Lydon M, Katsande N, Mahaka I, Hoke T. Test and Prevent: Evaluation of a Pilot Program Linking Clients With Negative HIV Test Results to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in Zimbabwe. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021; 9:40-54. [PMID: 33795361 PMCID: PMC8087428 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-20-00444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As HIV testing increases worldwide, programs are reaching individuals without HIV infection who are at risk of exposure and may be candidates for oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Although linkage of individuals with HIV infection to treatment is a global priority (referred to as "test and treat"), less attention is given to individuals with negative HIV test results. We developed the "Test and Prevent" pilot program to intentionally link at-risk clients with negative HIV test results to PrEP services. The intervention included risk assessment of all clients with a negative result from HIV testing (with national risk assessment tool), accompanied referral, fast-tracking, and targeting follow-up. METHODS The intervention was conducted in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, at 6 public sector sites from October 2019 to February 2020. We collected routine monitoring data from all study sites and tracked referral completion and PrEP initiation among clients who enrolled. We conducted in-depth interviews with providers (n=12), facility managers (n=5), and female clients (n=17) to explore acceptability. RESULTS Among clients referred for PrEP (n=206), 98% completed their referrals and started PrEP. However, only 3% of clients who received a negative test result during the study period were referred. Low referrals stemmed from lack of screening (39% of clients with negative HIV test results were not screened) and lack of eligibility among clients who were screened (only 6% of those screened qualified as candidates for PrEP per the national screening tool). Qualitative results indicate that some providers purposefully did not complete screening with clients they felt were not at risk and that workload could have contributed to low screening uptake.Qualitative interviews showed that Test and Prevent was acceptable among both providers and clients. Clients were happy to learn about PrEP following HIV testing, and the additional support of accompanied referrals and fast-tracking encouraged them to access PrEP and made them feel valued. Providers were burdened by workload constraints but felt that Test and Prevent was important and should be scaled to other sites. CONCLUSION Intentionally linking clients with negative results to PrEP immediately following HIV testing was found to be acceptable from both provider and client perspectives, yet screening procedures need closer examination and reinforcement for the program to realize a larger impact.
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Osei E, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Mobile health applications for disease screening and treatment support in low-and middle-income countries: A narrative review. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06639. [PMID: 33869857 PMCID: PMC8035664 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The advances in mobile technologies and applications are driving the transformation in health services delivery globally. Mobile phone penetration is increasing exponentially in low-and middle-income countries, hence using mobile phones for healthcare services could reach more people in resource-limited settings than the traditional forms of healthcare provision. The review presents recent literature on facilitators and barriers of implementing mHealth for disease screening and treatment support in low-and middle-income countries. We searched for relevant literature from the following electronic databases: MEDLINE; CINAHL with full text via EBSCOhost; Science Direct; PubMed; Google Scholar and Web of Science using the keywords for relevant studies. We searched for published studies from 2015 to August 2020 with no language limitations. A total of 721 articles identified, 125 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative synthesis. The review demonstrates relevant facilitators for the implementation of mHealth, which includes knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of stakeholders on the use of mHealth and the performance of mHealth for disease diagnosis in low and-middle-income countries. Barriers and challenges hindering the implementation of mHealth applications were also identified. We proposed a framework for improving the implementation of mHealth for disease screening and treatment support in low-and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Osei
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tivani P. Mashamba-Thompson
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Prinshof Campus, Pretoria, South Africa
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Fischer AE, Phatsoane M, Majam M, Shankland L, Abrahams M, Rhagnath N, Lalla-Edward ST. Uptake of the Ithaka mobile application in Johannesburg, South Africa, for human immunodeficiency virus self-testing result reporting. South Afr J HIV Med 2021; 22:1197. [PMID: 33824737 PMCID: PMC8008042 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v22i1.1197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human immunodeficiency virus self-testing (HIVST) can reduce facility-based HIV testing barriers; however, no proven applications exist with widespread uptake for self-reporting or linkage to care. Mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) have shown high usability and feasibility scores, so Ithaka was developed for South Africans to self-report HIVST results outside clinical settings. Objectives This study investigated the use of Ithaka as a support tool for HIVST users, specifically the ability to self-report results. Method This cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2018 to June 2019. At existing HIVST distribution sites, individuals were given HIVST kits and then invited to use Ithaka. Participants could test at home and report their results through the app anytime. Ithaka tracked when people logged-on, registered, received counselling and reported results. Post-study surveys on user experience were also conducted. Results Of 751 participants, 531 (70.7%) logged onto the app, 412 (54.9%) registered, 295 (39.3%) received counselling and 168 (22.4%) self-reported results. Participants strongly agreed that Ithaka was useful and that it was easy to upload results. Forty-one participants completed a post-test survey, and 39/41 (95.1%) completed the app journey. Most participants (36/41;87.8%) had no challenges, although 2/41 (4.9%) cited perceived data costs, 2/41 (4.9%) difficulty uploading results and 1/41 (2.4%) language, as challenges. Conclusion Despite the small sample size, this study has shown that HIVST participants under pragmatic conditions were willing and able to self-report results via the app, whilst also identifying areas of improvement for scaling up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex E Fischer
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mothepane Phatsoane
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mohammed Majam
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Naleni Rhagnath
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Samanta T Lalla-Edward
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Berendes S, Gubijev A, McCarthy OL, Palmer MJ, Wilson E, Free C. Sexual health interventions delivered to participants by mobile technology: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Sex Transm Infect 2021; 97:190-200. [PMID: 33452130 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of mobile technologies to prevent STIs is recognised as a promising approach worldwide; however, evidence has been inconclusive, and the field has developed rapidly. With about 1 million new STIs a day globally, up-to-date evidence is urgently needed. OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness of mobile health interventions delivered to participants for preventing STIs and promoting preventive behaviour. METHODS We searched seven databases and reference lists of 49 related reviews (January 1990-February 2020) and contacted experts in the field. We included randomised controlled trials of mobile interventions delivered to adolescents and adults to prevent sexual transmission of STIs. We conducted meta-analyses and assessed risk of bias and certainty of evidence following Cochrane guidance. RESULTS After double screening 6683 records, we included 22 trials into the systematic review and 20 into meta-analyses; 18 trials used text messages, 3 used smartphone applications and 1 used Facebook messages as delivery modes. The certainty of evidence regarding intervention effects on STI/HIV occurrence and adverse events was low or very low. There was moderate certainty of evidence that in the short/medium-term text messaging interventions had little or no effect on condom use (standardised mean differences (SMD) 0.02, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.14, nine trials), but increased STI/HIV testing (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.41 to 2.36, seven trials), although not if the standard-of-care control already contained an active text messaging component (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.47, two trials). Smartphone application messages also increased STI/HIV testing (risk ratio 1.40, 95% CI 1.22 to 1.60, subgroup analysis, two trials). The effects on other outcomes or of social media or blended interventions is uncertain due to low or very low certainty evidence. CONCLUSIONS Text messaging interventions probably increase STI/HIV testing but not condom use in the short/medium term. Ongoing trials will report the effects on biological and other outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sima Berendes
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anasztazia Gubijev
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ona L McCarthy
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Melissa J Palmer
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emma Wilson
- Population, Policy & Practice Department, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London GOS Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Caroline Free
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Chioma Ebuenyi M, Schnoor K, Versluis A, Meijer E, Chavannes NH. Short message services interventions for chronic disease management: A systematic review. CLINICAL EHEALTH 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceh.2020.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Nittas V, Ameli V, Little M, Humphreys DK. Exploring the equity impact of mobile health-based human immunodeficiency virus interventions: A systematic review of reviews and evidence synthesis. Digit Health 2020; 6:2055207620942360. [PMID: 32742717 PMCID: PMC7375713 DOI: 10.1177/2055207620942360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective While mobile health-based human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) interventions are often designed to promote health equity, systematic differences in the use of and access to mobile technologies may counteract that and widen treatment gaps. This systematic review applies an equity lens to investigate whether existing research provides adequate evidence on the ethical implications of mHealth technologies in HIV treatment and prevention. Methods This study included a two-stage methodology, consisting of (a) a systematic review of systematic reviews and (b) an evidence synthesis of primary studies. For the review of reviews we searched eight electronic databases, eight electronic journals and Google Scholar. We also screened reference lists and consulted authors of included studies. Primary studies were extracted from eligible reviews. We based our data extraction and analysis on the Place of residence, Race, Occupation, Gender/Sex, Religion, Education, Socioeconomic status, Social capital and other disadvantage related characteristics (PROGRESS-Plus) framework and the use of harvest plots, focusing on the socio-demographic distribution of mHealth effects. Results A total of 8786 citations resulted in 19 eligible reviews and 39 eligible primary studies. Existing reviews did not provide any analyses of the equity impacts of mobile health-based HIV initiatives. Information availability was higher in primary studies, predominantly suggesting no social gradient of mobile health-based HIV interventions. Overall, evidence remains weak and not sufficient to allow for confident equity statements. Conclusions Despite the negative force of socio-demographic inequities and the emerging nature of mobile health technologies, evidence on the equity implications of mobile health interventions for HIV care remains scarce. Not knowing how the effects of mobile health technologies differ across population subgroups inevitably limits our capacities to equitably adopt, adjust and integrate mobile health interventions towards reaching those disproportionally affected by the epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Nittas
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK.,Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Vira Ameli
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK.,Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Madison Little
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK.,Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, UK
| | - David K Humphreys
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK.,Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, UK
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Palmer MJ, Henschke N, Villanueva G, Maayan N, Bergman H, Glenton C, Lewin S, Fønhus MS, Tamrat T, Mehl GL, Free C. Targeted client communication via mobile devices for improving sexual and reproductive health. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 8:CD013680. [PMID: 32779730 PMCID: PMC8409381 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH) worldwide is substantial, disproportionately affecting those living in low- and middle-income countries. Targeted client communication (TCC) delivered via mobile devices (MD) (TCCMD) may improve the health behaviours and service use important for sexual and reproductive health. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of TCC via MD on adolescents' knowledge, and on adolescents' and adults' sexual and reproductive health behaviour, health service use, and health and well-being. SEARCH METHODS In July/August 2017, we searched five databases including The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE and Embase. We also searched two trial registries. A search update was carried out in July 2019 and potentially relevant studies are awaiting classification. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials of TCC via MD to improve sexual and reproductive health behaviour, health service use, and health and well-being. Eligible comparators were standard care or no intervention, non-digital TCC, and digital non-targeted communication. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures recommended by Cochrane, although data extraction and risk of bias assessments were carried out by one person only and cross-checked by a second. We have presented results separately for adult and adolescent populations, and for each comparison. MAIN RESULTS We included 40 trials (27 among adult populations and 13 among adolescent populations) with a total of 26,854 participants. All but one of the trials among adolescent populations were conducted in high-income countries. Trials among adult populations were conducted in a range of high- to low-income countries. Among adolescents, nine interventions were delivered solely through text messages; four interventions tested text messages in combination with another communication channel, such as emails, multimedia messaging, or voice calls; and one intervention used voice calls alone. Among adults, 20 interventions were delivered through text messages; two through a combination of text messages and voice calls; and the rest were delivered through other channels such as voice calls, multimedia messaging, interactive voice response, and instant messaging services. Adolescent populations TCCMD versus standard care TCCMD may increase sexual health knowledge (risk ratio (RR) 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23 to 1.71; low-certainty evidence). TCCMD may modestly increase contraception use (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.35; low-certainty evidence). The effects on condom use, antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, and health service use are uncertain due to very low-certainty evidence. The effects on abortion and STI rates are unknown due to lack of studies. TCCMD versus non-digital TCC (e.g. pamphlets) The effects of TCCMD on behaviour (contraception use, condom use, ART adherence), service use, health and wellbeing (abortion and STI rates) are unknown due to lack of studies for this comparison. TCCMD versus digital non-targeted communication The effects on sexual health knowledge, condom and contraceptive use are uncertain due to very low-certainty evidence. Interventions may increase health service use (attendance for STI/HIV testing, RR 1.61, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.40; low-certainty evidence). The intervention may be beneficial for reducing STI rates (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.28 to 1.33; low-certainty evidence), but the confidence interval encompasses both benefit and harm. The effects on abortion rates and on ART adherence are unknown due to lack of studies. We are uncertain whether TCCMD results in unintended consequences due to lack of evidence. Adult populations TCCMD versus standard care For health behaviours, TCCMD may modestly increase contraception use at 12 months (RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.48) and may reduce repeat abortion (RR 0.68 95% CI 0.28 to 1.66), though the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm (low-certainty evidence). The effect on condom use is uncertain. No study measured the impact of this intervention on STI rates. TCCMD may modestly increase ART adherence (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.32, low-certainty evidence, and standardised mean difference 0.44, 95% CI -0.14 to 1.02, low-certainty evidence). TCCMD may modestly increase health service utilisation (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.31; low-certainty evidence), but there was substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 85%), with mixed results according to type of service utilisation (i.e. attendance for STI testing; HIV treatment; voluntary male medical circumcision (VMMC); VMMC post-operative visit; post-abortion care). For health and well-being outcomes, there may be little or no effect on CD4 count (mean difference 13.99, 95% CI -8.65 to 36.63; low-certainty evidence) and a slight reduction in virological failure (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.01; low-certainty evidence). TCCMD versus non-digital TCC No studies reported STI rates, condom use, ART adherence, abortion rates, or contraceptive use as outcomes for this comparison. TCCMD may modestly increase in service attendance overall (RR: 1.12, 95% CI 0.92-1.35, low certainty evidence), however the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm. TCCMD versus digital non-targeted communication No studies reported STI rates, condom use, ART adherence, abortion rates, or contraceptive use as outcomes for this comparison. TCCMD may increase service utilisation overall (RR: 1.71, 95% CI 0.67-4.38, low certainty evidence), however the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm and there was considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 72%), with mixed results according to type of service utilisation (STI/HIV testing, and VMMC). Few studies reported on unintended consequences. One study reported that a participant withdrew from the intervention as they felt it compromised their undisclosed HIV status. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS TCCMD may improve some outcomes but the evidence is of low certainty. The effect on most outcomes is uncertain/unknown due to very low certainty evidence or lack of evidence. High quality, adequately powered trials and cost effectiveness analyses are required to reliably ascertain the effects and relative benefits of TCC delivered by mobile devices. Given the sensitivity and stigma associated with sexual and reproductive health future studies should measure unintended consequences, such as partner violence or breaches of confidentiality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Palmer
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Simon Lewin
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Tigest Tamrat
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Garrett L Mehl
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Free
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Pepito VCF, Newton S. Determinants of HIV testing among Filipino women: Results from the 2013 Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0232620. [PMID: 32396559 PMCID: PMC7217462 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0232620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of having ever tested for HIV in the Philippines is very low and is far from the 90% target of the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) and UNAIDS, thus the need to identify the factors associated with ever testing for HIV among Filipino women. METHODS We analysed the 2013 Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). The NDHS is a nationally representative survey which utilized a two-stage stratified design to sample Filipino women aged 15-49. We considered the following exposures in our study: socio-demographic characteristics of respondent and her partner (i.e., age of respondent, age of partner, wealth index, etc.), sexual practices and contraception (i.e., age at first intercourse, condom use, etc.), media access, tobacco use, HIV knowledge, tolerance to domestic violence, and women's empowerment. The outcome variable is HIV testing. We used logistic regression for survey data to study the said associations. RESULTS Out of 16,155 respondents, only 372 (2.4%) have ever tested for HIV. After adjusting for confounders, having tertiary education (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.15; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.15-4.04), living with partner (aOR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.19-2.48), tobacco use (aOR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.13-3.11); belonging to the middle class (aOR = 2.72; 95% CI: 1.30-5.67), richer (aOR = 3.00; 95% CI: 1.37-5.68), and richest (aOR = 4.14; 95% CI: 1.80-5.91) populations, having weekly television access (aOR = 1.75; 95% CI: 1.04-2.94) or internet access (aOR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.35-3.00), living in a rural area (aOR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.34-2.61); and being a Muslim (aOR = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.15-4.57) were associated with ever testing for HIV. CONCLUSIONS The low percentage of respondents who test for HIV is a call to further strengthen efforts to promote HIV testing among Filipino women. Information on its determinants can be used to guide the crafting and implementation of interventions to promote HIV testing to meet DOH and UNAIDS targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veincent Christian F. Pepito
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Center for Research and Innovation, School of Medicine and Public Health, Ateneo de Manila University, Pasig City, Philippines
| | - Sam Newton
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Salvadori N, Adam P, Mary J, Decker L, Sabin L, Chevret S, Arunothong S, Khamduang W, Luangsook P, Suksa‐ardphasu V, Achalapong J, Rouzioux C, Sirirungsi W, Ngo‐Giang‐Huong N, Jourdain G. Appointment reminders to increase uptake of HIV retesting by at-risk individuals: a randomized controlled study in Thailand. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25478. [PMID: 32294318 PMCID: PMC7159062 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Frequent HIV testing of at-risk individuals is crucial to detect and treat infections early and prevent transmissions. We assessed the effect of reminders on HIV retesting uptake. METHODS The study was conducted within a programme involving four facilities providing free-of-charge HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B and C testing and counselling in northern Thailand. Individuals found HIV negative and identified at risk by counsellors were invited to participate in a three-arm, open-label, randomized, controlled trial comparing: (a) "No Appointment & No Reminder" (control arm); (b) "No Appointment but Reminder": short message service (SMS) sent 24 weeks after the enrolment visit to remind booking an appointment, and sent again one week later if no appointment was booked; and (c) "Appointment & Reminder": appointment scheduled during the enrolment visit and SMS sent one week before appointment to ask for confirmation; if no response: single call made within one business day. The primary endpoint was a HIV retest within seven months after the enrolment visit. The cost of each reminder strategy was calculated as the sum of the following costs in United States dollars (USD): time spent by participants, counsellors and hotline staff; phone calls made; and SMS sent. The target sample size was 217 participants per arm (651 overall). RESULTS Between April and November 2017, 651 participants were randomized. The proportion presenting for HIV retesting within seven months was 11.2% (24/215) in the control arm, versus 19.3% (42/218) in "No Appointment but Reminder" (p = 0.023) and 36.7% (80/218) in "Appointment & Reminder" (p < 0.001). Differences in proportions compared to the control arm were respectively +8.1% (95% CI: +1.4% to +14.8%) and +25.5% (+17.9% to +33.2%). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of "No Appointment but Reminder" and "Appointment & Reminder" compared to the control arm were respectively USD 0.05 and USD 0.14 per participant for each 5% increase in HIV retesting uptake within seven months. CONCLUSIONS Scheduling an appointment and sending a reminder one week before was a simple, easy-to-implement and affordable intervention that significantly increased HIV retesting uptake in these at-risk individuals. The personal phone call to clients probably contributed, and also improved service efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Salvadori
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD)‐PHPTMarseilleFrance
- Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
| | - Pierrick Adam
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD)‐PHPTMarseilleFrance
- Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational HealthMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
| | - Jean‐Yves Mary
- INSERM U1153Team ECSTRAUniversité Paris Diderot ‐ Paris 7Hôpital Saint‐LouisParisFrance
| | - Luc Decker
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD)‐PHPTMarseilleFrance
- Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
| | - Lucie Sabin
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD)‐PHPTMarseilleFrance
- Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
| | - Sylvie Chevret
- INSERM U1153Team ECSTRAUniversité Paris Diderot ‐ Paris 7Hôpital Saint‐LouisParisFrance
| | | | | | - Prapan Luangsook
- Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
| | | | | | - Christine Rouzioux
- Laboratoire de Virologie ‐ EA 3620Université Paris DescartesHôpital NeckerParisFrance
| | - Wasna Sirirungsi
- Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
| | - Nicole Ngo‐Giang‐Huong
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD)‐PHPTMarseilleFrance
- Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
- Department of Immunology and Infectious DiseasesHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMAUSA
| | - Gonzague Jourdain
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD)‐PHPTMarseilleFrance
- Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
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Free C, McCarthy OL, Palmer MJ, Knight R, Edwards P, French R, Baraitser P, Hickson FCI, Wellings K, Roberts I, Bailey JV, Hart G, Michie S, Clayton T, Ploubidis GB, Carpenter JR, Turner KME, Devries K, Potter K. Safetxt: a safer sex intervention delivered by mobile phone messaging on sexually transmitted infections (STI) among young people in the UK - protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e031635. [PMID: 32152156 PMCID: PMC7064138 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young people aged 16 to 24 have the highest prevalence of genital chlamydia and gonorrhoea compared with other age groups and re-infection rates following treatment are high. Long-term adverse health effects include subfertility and ectopic pregnancy, particularly among those with repeated infections. We developed the safetxt intervention delivered by text message to reduce sexually transmitted infection (STI) by increasing partner notification, condom use and (STI) testing among young people in the UK. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A single-blind randomised trial to reliably establish the effect of the safetxt intervention on chlamydia and gonorrhoea infection at 1 year. We will recruit 6250 people aged 16 to 24 years who have recently been diagnosed with chlamydia, gonorrhoea or non-specific urethritis from health services in the UK. Participants will be allocated to receive the safetxt intervention (text messages designed to promote safer sexual health behaviours) or to receive the control text messages (monthly messages asking participants about changes in contact details) by an automated remote online randomisation system. The primary outcome will be the cumulative incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhoea infection at 1 year assessed by nucleic acid amplification tests. Secondary outcomes include partner notification, correct treatment of infection, condom use and STI testing prior to sex with new partners. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval was obtained from NHS Health Research Authority - London - Riverside Research Ethics Committee (REC reference: 15/LO/1665) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. We will submit the results of the trial for publication in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials Number: ISRCTN64390461. Registered on 17th March 2016. WHO trial registration data set available at: http://apps.who.int/trialsearch/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=ISRCTN64390461. TRIAL PROTOCOL VERSION 12, 19th July 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Free
- Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Ona L McCarthy
- Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Melissa J Palmer
- Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Rosemary Knight
- Clinical Trials Unit, MSD, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Phil Edwards
- Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Rebecca French
- Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Paula Baraitser
- Centre for Global Health, King's College London, London, London, UK
| | | | - Kaye Wellings
- Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Ian Roberts
- Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, London, UK
| | - Graham Hart
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, London, UK
| | - Susan Michie
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectivenes, University College London, London, London, UK
| | - Tim Clayton
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - George B Ploubidis
- Department of Social Science, University College London Institute of Education, London, London, UK
| | - James R Carpenter
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | | | - Karen Devries
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
| | - Kimberley Potter
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, London, UK
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Ames HMR, Glenton C, Lewin S, Tamrat T, Akama E, Leon N. Clients' perceptions and experiences of targeted digital communication accessible via mobile devices for reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 10:CD013447. [PMID: 31608981 PMCID: PMC6791116 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Governments and health systems are increasingly using mobile devices to communicate with patients and the public. Targeted digital client communication is when the health system transmits information to particular individuals or groups of people, based on their health or demographic status. Common types of targeted client communication are text messages that remind people to go to appointments or take their medicines. Other types include phone calls, interactive voice response, or multimedia messages that offer healthcare information, advice, monitoring, and support. OBJECTIVES To explore clients' perceptions and experiences of targeted digital communication via mobile devices on topics related to reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, or adolescent health (RMNCAH). SEARCH METHODS We searched MEDLINE (OvidSP), MEDLINE In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations (OvidSP), Embase (Ovid), World Health Organization Global Health Library, and POPLINE databases for eligible studies from inception to 3-6 July 2017 dependant on the database (See appendix 2). SELECTION CRITERIA We included studies that used qualitative methods for data collection and analysis; that explored clinets' perceptions and experiences of targeted digital communication via mobile device in the areas of RMNCAH; and were from any setting globally. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used maximum variation purposive sampling for data synthesis, employing a three-step sampling frame. We conducted a framework thematic analysis using the Supporting the Use of Research Evidence (SURE) framework as our starting point. We assessed our confidence in the findings using the GRADE-CERQual (Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) approach. We used a matrix approach to explore whether potential implementation barriers identified in our synthesis had been addressed in the trials included in the related Cochrane Reviews of effectiveness. MAIN RESULTS We included 35 studies, from a wide range of countries on six continents. Nineteen studies were conducted in low- and middle-income settings and sixteen in high-income settings. Some of the studies explored the views of people who had experienced the interventions, whereas others were hypothetical in nature, asking what people felt they would like from a digital health intervention. The studies covered a range of digital targeted client communication, for example medication or appointment reminders, prenatal health information, support for smoking cessation while pregnant, or general sexual health information.Our synthesis showed that clients' experiences of these types of programmes were mixed. Some felt that these programmes provided them with feelings of support and connectedness, as they felt that someone was taking the time to send them messages (moderate confidence in the evidence). They also described sharing the messages with their friends and family (moderate confidence).However, clients also pointed to problems when using these programmes. Some clients had poor access to cell networks and to the internet (high confidence). Others had no phone, had lost or broken their phone, could not afford airtime, or had changed their phone number (moderate confidence). Some clients, particularly women and teenagers, had their access to phones controlled by others (moderate confidence). The cost of messages could also be a problem, and many thought that messages should be free of charge (high confidence). Language issues as well as skills in reading, writing, and using mobile phones could also be a problem (moderate confidence).Clients dealing with stigmatised or personal health conditions such as HIV, family planning, or abortion care were also concerned about privacy and confidentiality (high confidence). Some clients suggested strategies to deal with these issues, such as using neutral language and tailoring the content, timing, and frequency of messages (high confidence).Clients wanted messages at a time and frequency that was convenient for them (moderate confidence). They had preferences for different delivery channels (e.g. short message service (SMS) or interactive voice response) (moderate confidence). They also had preferences about message content, including new knowledge, reminders, solutions, and suggestions about health issues (moderate confidence). Clients' views about who sent the digital health communication could influence their views of the programme (moderate confidence).For an overview of the findings and our confidence in the evidence, please see the 'Summary of qualitative findings' tables.Our matrix shows that many of the trials assessing these types of programmes did not try to address the problems we identified, although this may have been a reporting issue. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Our synthesis identified several factors that can influence the successful implementation of targeted client communication programmes using mobile devices. These include barriers to use that have equity implications. Programme planners should take these factors into account when designing and implementing programmes. Future trial authors also need to actively address these factors and to report their efforts in their trial publications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather MR Ames
- Norwegian Institute of Public HealthPostboks 222 SkøyenOsloNorway0213
| | - Claire Glenton
- Norwegian Institute of Public HealthPostboks 222 SkøyenOsloNorway0213
| | - Simon Lewin
- Norwegian Institute of Public HealthPostboks 222 SkøyenOsloNorway0213
- South African Medical Research CouncilHealth Systems Research UnitPO Box 19070Cape TownSouth Africa7505
| | - Tigest Tamrat
- World Health OrganizationDepartment of Reproductive Health and Research20 Avenue AppiaGenevaSwitzerlandCH‐1211
| | - Eliud Akama
- University of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Natalie Leon
- South African Medical Research CouncilHealth Systems Research UnitPO Box 19070Cape TownSouth Africa7505
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Hochstatter KR, Gustafson DH, Landucci G, Pe-Romashko K, Maus A, Shah DV, Taylor QA, Gill EK, Miller R, Krechel S, Westergaard RP. A Mobile Health Intervention to Improve Hepatitis C Outcomes Among People With Opioid Use Disorder: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e12620. [PMID: 31373273 PMCID: PMC6694728 DOI: 10.2196/12620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who inject drugs are at a disproportionate risk for contracting hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, use of HCV prevention and treatment services remains suboptimal among people with substance use disorders due to various health system, societal, and individual barriers. Mobile health applications offer promising strategies to support people in recovery from substance use disorders. We sought to determine whether the Addiction-Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System (A-CHESS), an existing mobile health application for opioid use disorder, could be adapted to improve HCV screening and treatment. Objective The goals of this paper are to describe: (1) the components and functionality of an HCV intervention incorporated into the existing A-CHESS system; and (2) how data are collected and will be used to evaluate HCV testing, linkage to care, and treatment. Methods People with recent opioid use were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial to test whether A-CHESS reduced relapse. We developed and implemented HCV intervention content within the A-CHESS platform to simultaneously evaluate whether A-CHESS improved secondary outcomes related to HCV care. All A-CHESS users received the HCV intervention content, which includes educational information, private messages tailored to an individual’s stage of HCV care, and a public discussion forum. Data on patients’ HCV risk behaviors and stage of care were collected through quarterly telephone interviews and weekly surveys delivered through A-CHESS. The proportion of people with opioid use disorder who are HCV untested, HCV-negative, HCV antibody-positive, or HCV RNA–positive, as well as linked to care, treated and cured at baseline is described here. The 24-month follow-up is ongoing and will be completed in April 2020. Survey data will then be used to assess whether individuals who received the HCV-enhanced A-CHESS intervention were more likely to reduce risky injection behaviors, receive HCV testing, link to medical care, initiate treatment, and be cured of HCV compared to the control group. Results Between April 2016 and April 2018, 416 individuals were enrolled and completed the baseline interview. Of these individuals, 207 were then randomly assigned to the control arm and 209 were assigned to the intervention arm. At baseline, 202 individuals (49%) self-reported ever testing HCV antibody-positive. Of those, 179 (89%) reported receiving HCV RNA confirmatory testing, 134 (66%) tested HCV RNA–positive, 125 (62%) were linked to medical care and 27 (13%) were treated and cured of HCV. Of the remaining 214 individuals who had never tested HCV antibody–positive, 129 (31%) had tested HCV antibody–negative within the past year and 85 (20%) had not been tested within the past year. Conclusions The A-CHESS mobile health system allows for the implementation of a bundle of services as well as the collection of longitudinal data related to drug use and HCV care among people with opioid use disorders. This study will provide preliminary evidence to determine whether HCV-specific services embedded into the A-CHESS program can improve HCV outcomes for people engaged in addiction treatment. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02712034; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02712034 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/12620
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Affiliation(s)
- Karli R Hochstatter
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.,Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - David H Gustafson
- Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Wiconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Gina Landucci
- Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Wiconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Klaren Pe-Romashko
- Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Wiconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Adam Maus
- Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Wiconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Dhavan V Shah
- Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Wiconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Quinton A Taylor
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Emma K Gill
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Rebecca Miller
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Sarah Krechel
- AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Ryan P Westergaard
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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Venter WDF, Fischer A, Lalla-Edward ST, Coleman J, Lau Chan V, Shubber Z, Phatsoane M, Gorgens M, Stewart-Isherwood L, Carmona S, Fraser-Hurt N. Improving Linkage to and Retention in Care in Newly Diagnosed HIV-Positive Patients Using Smartphones in South Africa: Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2019; 7:e12652. [PMID: 30938681 PMCID: PMC6465976 DOI: 10.2196/12652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background South Africa provides free antiretroviral therapy for almost 5 million people living with HIV, but only 71% of the eligible people are on treatment, representing a shortfall in the care cascade, especially among men and youth. Many developing countries have expanded access to smartphones; success in health apps raises the possibility of improving this cascade. Objective SmartLink is a health app for Android smartphones providing HIV-related laboratory results, information, support, and appointment reminders to engage and link patients to care. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of SmartLink to improve linkage to care for HIV-positive smartphone owners. Methods This study was a multisite randomized controlled trial in Johannesburg. The intervention arm received the app (along with referral to a treatment site) and the control arm received the standard of care (referral alone). Linkage to care was confirmed by an HIV-related blood test reported on the National Health Laboratory Service database between 2 weeks and 8 months after initiation. Results A total of 345 participants were recruited into the study; 64.9% (224/345) of the participants were female and 44.1% (152/345) were aged less than 30 years. In addition, 46.7% (161/345) were employed full time, 95.9% (331/345) had at least secondary school education, and 35.9% (124/345) were from Zimbabwe. Linkage to care between 2 weeks and 8 months was 48.6% (88/181) in the intervention arm versus 45.1% (74/164) in the control (P=.52) and increased to 64.1% (116/181) and 61.0% (100/164) (P=.55), respectively, after the initial 8-month period. Moreover, youth aged 18 to 30-years showed a statistically significant 20% increase in linkage to care for the intervention group. Conclusions Youth aged less than 30 years have been historically difficult to reach with traditional interventions, and the SmartLink app provides a proof of concept that this population reacts to mobile health interventions that engage patients in HIV care. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02756949; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02756949 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6z1GTJCNW)
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Fischer
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Jesse Coleman
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Vincent Lau Chan
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Zara Shubber
- World Bank, World Bank Group, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Mothepane Phatsoane
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Sergio Carmona
- National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Abstract
As of 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) HIV testing guidelines recommend that those at increased risk for HIV are tested two to four times per year. Evidence-based interventions that promote frequent and repeated testing remain sparse. We conducted a systematic review to: (1) identify frequent testing interventions; and (2) determine which were successful in increasing frequent testing rates. We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Embase, and CINAHL for peer-reviewed articles published between January 1, 2010 and September 30, 2017. Ten studies met inclusion criteria. Operationalization of frequent HIV testing varied widely across studies. Four interventions involved text message reminders for HIV testing, three involved community-based testing, two self-testing, and one rapid testing. Text message reminder interventions were most successful in increasing rates of frequent HIV testing. Future research should standardize frequent testing measurement to allow for more robust comparisons of intervention efficacy.
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Rafferty H, Chirro O, Oduor C, Wahome E, Ngoi C, van der Elst E, Berger R, Rowland-Jones S, Graham SM, Sanders EJ. Pilot testing of an online training module about screening for acute HIV infection in adult patients seeking urgent healthcare. Int Health 2019; 11:93-100. [PMID: 30388277 PMCID: PMC6398591 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihy077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute HIV infection (AHI) is the phase of HIV infection immediately after acquisition, during which many patients develop symptoms and often seek healthcare. However, clinicians in sub-Saharan Africa are not currently taught about AHI. METHODS This study pilot-tested a self-directed AHI training module among clinical officers (COs) in coastal Kenya and assessed knowledge gained and challenges to instituting screening. The training module included four domains: AHI definition and importance of AHI recognition; symptoms and screening algorithms; diagnostic strategies; and management. AHI knowledge was assessed before and immediately after training. Participants' ability to utilize an AHI screening algorithm was evaluated with a case-based exercise. RESULTS Self-directed training was completed by 45 COs. Pre-test scores were low (median score 35% IQR 30-45%), but improved significantly after training (median post-test score 75%, IQR 70-85%, Wilcoxon signed-rank test p<0.0001). Participants had challenges in understanding the utility and application of a screening algorithm to identify patients for whom AHI testing would be indicated. Knowledge of AHI was poor at baseline, but improved with self-directed learning. Based on these findings, we revised and improved the AHI training module and pre- and post-assessments, which are now freely available online at www.marps-africa.org. CONCLUSIONS Guidelines on AHI screening and diagnosis are urgently needed in high HIV transmission areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Rafferty
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research—Coast, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Oscar Chirro
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research—Coast, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Clifford Oduor
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research—Coast, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Wahome
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research—Coast, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Caroline Ngoi
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research—Coast, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Elise van der Elst
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research—Coast, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - René Berger
- United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah Rowland-Jones
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Susan M Graham
- University of Washington, 359909, 325 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eduard J Sanders
- KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme Centre for Geographic Medicine Research—Coast, Kilifi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, UK
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Liu JX, Shen J, Wilson N, Janumpalli S, Stadler P, Padian N. Conditional cash transfers to prevent mother-to-child transmission in low facility-delivery settings: evidence from a randomised controlled trial in Nigeria. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:32. [PMID: 30651080 PMCID: PMC6335681 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2172-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nigeria suffers from the highest burden of mother-to-child transmission worldwide. To increase retention in care and prevention programmes, we piloted and evaluated a conditional cash transfer (CCT) programme for preventing mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria. Methods In a randomised controlled trial, pregnant women testing positive for HIV during antenatal care registration at three public hospitals were randomised to one of two study arms: (1) offered enrolment into the CCT programme or (2) continue in standard care for (PMTCT). In the CCT programme, women could receive a compensation package totaling 33,300 Naira (~US$114) for enroling, delivering at the facility, and obtaining a newborn early infant diagnosis (EID) test. The intent-to-treat (ITT) and per protocol (PP) effects of the programme on the primary outcomes of facility delivery and EID testing and on the secondary outcome of nevirapine administration were estimated with logistic regressions. Results From August 1, 2015 to April 19, 2017, 554 pregnant women tested positive for HIV; 273 were randomised to standard care and 281 were offered enrolment into the CCT intervention. Women offered the CCT programme were more likely to give birth at the facility (n = 109/263; 41.4%) compared to women in standard care (n = 80/254; 31.5%), an absolute difference of 9.9% (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.07–2.21, p = 0.019). For EID testing there was an absolute difference of 12.8% between those offered the CCT intervention (n = 69/263; 26.2%) and those in standard care (n = 34/254; 13.4%; OR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.46–3.62, p = 0.000). PP results show larger differences for both facility deliveries (16.7% absolute difference; OR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.38–2.98, p = 0.000) and EID testing (18.9% absolute difference; OR = 3.09, 95% CI 1.93–4.94, p = 0.000) among intervention enrolees. Over 86% of the facility-delivered newborns received nevirapine, and ITT and PP estimates were similar to those for facility deliveries. Conclusions Results show that CCTs improved the likelihood of HIV-positive women giving birth at a facility, of nevirapine being administered to their newborn, and of undergoing EID testing in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria. Effects are especially large among those who agreed to participate in the CCT intervention. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02447159, May 18, 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny X Liu
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Institute for Health & Aging, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California Street, Suite 340, San Francisco, CA, 94118, USA.
| | - Jennifer Shen
- Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California Street, Suite 265, San Francisco, CA, 94118, USA
| | - Nicholas Wilson
- Office of Evaluation Sciences and Department of Economics, Reed College, 3203 SE Woodstock Blvd, Portland, OR, 97202, USA
| | | | | | - Nancy Padian
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 770 University Hall, Berkeley, CA, 94720-7360, USA
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30
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Taylor D, Lunny C, Lolić P, Warje O, Geldman J, Wong T, Gilbert M, Lester R, Ogilvie G. Effectiveness of text messaging interventions on prevention, detection, treatment, and knowledge outcomes for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)/HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Syst Rev 2019; 8:12. [PMID: 30621784 PMCID: PMC6323863 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-018-0921-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rates of STIs continue to rise worldwide, and novel evidence-based interventions such as text messaging aimed at improving client services are needed. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate text messaging to support STI/HIV prevention and treatment interventions. METHODS We included articles that reported findings from randomized controlled trials (RTCs) involving adults and youth who were at risk of acquiring (or who currently had) a STI and/or HIV, a text message and comparator intervention, and reported provided outcome data on adherence to STI/HIV treatments. Articles were excluded if they were not published in English. We only included studies that have full-text publications so certainty and risk of bias assessments could be performed. Eight databases were searched to retrieve articles published between 1996 and March 2017. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used and certainty of the evidence was assessed using GRADE. Effect estimates were pooled using a random effects model. RESULTS A total of 35 RCTs were found, 6 of which were considered at low risk of bias. Eight studies found an increased association using text messaging in appointments attended compared to standard care (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.28 to 2.10). Participants receiving text messages had an increase in HIV testing compared to standard care (n = 6; OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.39 to 2.15). Ten text messaging RCTs measuring adherence using micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) pill counts has a non-significant association (OR 1.17, 95% CI 0.95-1.45) while five studies measuring adherence by self-report was found to be significant (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.28-2.11). CONCLUSIONS The effectiveness of text message interventions is equivocal. While text messaging has the potential to enhance the delivery of STI/HIV interventions, program planners are encouraged to evaluate any SMS intervention to ensure it is achieving the desired result. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42013006503.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darlene Taylor
- University of British Columbia, 1147 Research Road, Rm ARTS 154, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada.
| | - Carole Lunny
- University of British Columbia, 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Petra Lolić
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Orion Warje
- Vancouver Island Health Authority, 1952 Bay Street, Victoria, BC, V8R 1J8, Canada
| | - Jasmina Geldman
- University of British Columbia, 1147 Research Road, Rm ARTS 154, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Tom Wong
- Health Canada/Santé Canada, 200 Eglantine Driveway, Room 1913A, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Mark Gilbert
- BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Richard Lester
- University of British Columbia, Research Pavilion, Rm 566, 828 W 10th, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1 M9, Canada
| | - Gina Ogilvie
- University of British Columbia, Box 42, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada
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31
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Zanoni BC, Elliott RJ, Neilan AM, Haberer JE. Screening for HIV and linkage to care in adolescents: insights from a systematic review of recent interventions in high- versus low- and middle-income settings. ADOLESCENT HEALTH MEDICINE AND THERAPEUTICS 2018; 9:211-235. [PMID: 30584383 PMCID: PMC6287534 DOI: 10.2147/ahmt.s153204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Compared to adults, adolescents and young adults have a higher incidence of HIV infection, yet lower rates of HIV testing. Few evidence-based interventions effectively diagnose new HIV infections among adolescents while successfully providing linkage to care. Methods We conducted a systematic review of recent interventions to increase HIV testing among adolescents and young adults using data retrieved from PubMed and Google Scholar, and using abstracts presented at the International AIDS Society conferences and Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections published between January 1, 2015, and April 28, 2018. Results We identified 36 interventions (N=14 in high- income countries and N=22 in low- and middle-income countries) that were published in the literature (N=28) or presented at conferences (N=8). Interventions were categorized as behavioral/educational, alternate venue/self-testing, youth-friendly services, technology/mobile health, incentives, or peer-based/community-based interventions. The studies consisted of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective and retrospective observational studies, and quasi-experimental/pre-post evaluations with variable sample sizes. Study designs, populations, and settings varied. All categories showed some degree of acceptability, yet not all interventions were effective in increasing HIV testing. Effectiveness was seen in more than one RCT involving technology/mobile health (2/3 RCTs) and alternative venue/self-testing (3/3 RCTs) interventions, and only in one RCT each for behavioral interventions, community interventions, and incentives. There were no effective RCTs for adolescent-friendly services. Data were limited on the number of new infections identified and on the methods to increase linkage to care after diagnosis. Conclusion Future studies should include combinations of proven methods for engaging adolescents in HIV testing, while ensuring effective methods of linkage to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C Zanoni
- Department of Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA, .,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,
| | - Ryan J Elliott
- Premedical Program, Harvard Extension School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Anne M Neilan
- Department of Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA, .,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Department of Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA, .,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,
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Kiwanuka N, Mpendo J, Asiimwe S, Ssempiira J, Nalutaaya A, Nambuusi B, Wambuzi M, Kabuubi B, Namuniina A, Oporia F, Nanvubya A, Ssetaala A. A randomized trial to assess retention rates using mobile phone reminders versus physical contact tracing in a potential HIV vaccine efficacy population of fishing communities around Lake Victoria, Uganda. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:591. [PMID: 30463524 PMCID: PMC6249980 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3475-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background High retention (follow-up) rates improve the validity and statistical power of outcomes in longitudinal studies and the effectiveness of programs with prolonged administration of interventions. We assessed participant retention in a potential HIV vaccine trials population of fishing communities along Lake Victoria, Uganda. Methods In a community-based individual randomized trial, 662 participants aged 15–49 years were randomized to either mobile phone or physical contact tracing reminders and followed up at months 1, 2, 3, 6, 12 and 18 post-enrolment. The visit schedules aimed at mimicking a vaccine efficacy trial representing an early interval (months 1–6) where most vaccinations would be administered and a later period of post-vaccination follow-up. The primary outcome was retention measured as the proportion of post-baseline follow up visits completed by a participant. Retention was estimated in early and later follow-up intervals, and overall for all the six follow-up visits. Adjusted differences in retention between the study arms were determined by multivariable logistic regression using Stata® 14. One participant was later dropped from the analysis because of age ineligibility discovered after enrolment. Results Of the expected total follow up visits of 3966 among 661 participants, 84.1% (3334) were attained; 82.1% (1626/1980) in the phone arm and 86% (1708/1986) in the physical tracing arm (p = 0.001). No statistically significant differences in retention were observed between the study arms in the first 6 months but thereafter, retention was significantly higher for physical contact reminders than mobile phones; 91.5% versus 82.1% (p < 0.0001) at month 12 and 82.8% versus 75.4%, (p = 0.021) at month 18. Controlling for sex, age, education, occupation, community location, length of stay and marital status, the odds of good retention (completing 5 out of 6 follow-up visits) were 1.56 (95% CI;1.08–2.26, p = 0.018) for physical contact tracing compared to mobile phone tracing. Other statistically significant predictors of good retention were residing on islands and having stayed in the fishing communities for 5 or more years. Conclusions Among fishing communities of Lake Victoria, Uganda, 84% of follow-up visits can be attained and participant retention is higher using physical contact reminders than mobile phones. Trial registration number PACTR201311000696101 (http://www.pactr.org/). retrospectively registered on 05 November, 2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Kiwanuka
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O.Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda. .,Clinical Trials Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | | | | | - Julius Ssempiira
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O.Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Betty Nambuusi
- Clinical Trials Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Frederick Oporia
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O.Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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Gibson DG, Tamrat T, Mehl G. The State of Digital Interventions for Demand Generation in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Considerations, Emerging Approaches, and Research Gaps. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2018; 6:S49-S60. [PMID: 30305339 PMCID: PMC6203418 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-18-00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The recent introduction of digital health into generating demand for health commodities and services has provided practitioners with an expanded universe of potential tools to strengthen demand and ensure service delivery receipt. However, considerable gaps remain in our understanding of which interventions are effective, which characteristics mediate their benefit for different target populations and health domains, and what is necessary to ensure effective deployment. This paper first provides an overview of the types of digital health interventions for demand generation, including untargeted client communication, client-to-client communication, on-demand information services, personal health tracking, client financial transactions, and targeted client communication. It then provides a general overview of 118 studies published between January 1, 2010, and October 3, 2017, that used digital interventions to generate demand for health interventions. The majority (61%) of these studies used targeted client communication to provide health education or reminders to improve treatment adherence, and the most frequently (27%) studied health condition was HIV/AIDS. Intervention characteristics that have been found to have some effect on gains in demand generation include modality, directionality, tailoring, phrasing, and schedule. The paper also explores new emergent digital approaches that expand the potential effect of traditional demand generation in terms of personalization of content and services, continuity of care, and accountability tracking. Applying existing frameworks for monitoring and evaluation and reporting, research on emerging approaches will need to consider not only their feasibility but also their effectiveness in achieving demand generation outcomes. We propose a research agenda to help guide the field of digital demand generation studies and programs within a broader health systems strengthening agenda, including establishing and documenting the influence of intervention characteristics within different populations and health domains and examining the long-term effects and cost-effectiveness of digital demand generation interventions, as well as equity in access to such interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin G Gibson
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Tigest Tamrat
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Garrett Mehl
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Felsher M, Szep Z, Krakower D, Martinez-Donate A, Tran N, Roth AM. "I Don't Need PrEP Right Now": A Qualitative Exploration of the Barriers to PrEP Care Engagement Through the Application of the Health Belief Model. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2018; 30:369-381. [PMID: 30332306 PMCID: PMC8558876 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2018.30.5.369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The Health Belief Model has been useful for studying uptake of HIV prevention behaviors and has had limited application to understanding utilization of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a biomedical strategy to reduce HIV acquisition. We recruited 90 persons undergoing HIV screening and educated them about PrEP. We followed up with 35 participants approximately 3 weeks later and quantitatively assessed PrEP uptake. No participant had initiated PrEP. We conducted in-depth interviews with 15 participants to explore situational factors impacting this decision. In this paper we provide an overview of PrEP-related engagement using qualitative data to contextualize (in)action. While participants perceived PrEP as beneficial, perceived benefits did not outweigh real- and perceived barriers, such as financial and time-related constraints. In order to promote PrEP uptake, cues to action that increase the benefits of PrEP during seasons of risk, and interventions that reduce real and perceived barriers are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Felsher
- Drexel University, Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Zsofia Szep
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Douglas Krakower
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Infectious Diseases/Department of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ana Martinez-Donate
- Drexel University, Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Nguyen Tran
- Drexel University, Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Alexis M Roth
- Drexel University, Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Perkins JM, Nyakato VN, Kakuhikire B, Mbabazi PK, Perkins HW, Tsai AC, Subramanian SV, Christakis NA, Bangsberg DR. Actual Versus Perceived HIV Testing Norms, and Personal HIV Testing Uptake: A Cross-Sectional, Population-Based Study in Rural Uganda. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:616-628. [PMID: 28233075 PMCID: PMC5568980 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1691-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
HIV testing is an essential part of treatment and prevention. Using population-based data from 1664 adults across eight villages in rural Uganda, we assessed individuals' perception of the norm for HIV testing uptake in their village and compared it to the actual uptake norm. In addition, we examined how perception of the norm was associated with personal testing while adjusting for other factors. Although the majority of people had been tested for HIV across all villages, slightly more than half of men and women erroneously thought that the majority in their village had never been tested. They underestimated the prevalence of HIV testing uptake by 42 percentage points (s.d. = 17 percentage points), on average. Among men, perceiving that HIV testing was not normative was associated with never testing for HIV (AOR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.7-4.0, p < 0.001). Results suggest an opportunity for interventions to emphasize the commonness of HIV testing uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Perkins
- Chester M. Pierce, MD Division of Global Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Viola N Nyakato
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Pamela K Mbabazi
- Uganda National Council for Science & Technology, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Alexander C Tsai
- Chester M. Pierce, MD Division of Global Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - S V Subramanian
- Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - David R Bangsberg
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University School of Public Health, Portland, OR, USA
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Rutstein SE, Ananworanich J, Fidler S, Johnson C, Sanders EJ, Sued O, Saez-Cirion A, Pilcher CD, Fraser C, Cohen MS, Vitoria M, Doherty M, Tucker JD. Clinical and public health implications of acute and early HIV detection and treatment: a scoping review. J Int AIDS Soc 2017; 20:21579. [PMID: 28691435 PMCID: PMC5515019 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.1.21579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The unchanged global HIV incidence may be related to ignoring acute HIV infection (AHI). This scoping review examines diagnostic, clinical, and public health implications of identifying and treating persons with AHI. METHODS We searched PubMed, in addition to hand-review of key journals identifying research pertaining to AHI detection and treatment. We focused on the relative contribution of AHI to transmission and the diagnostic, clinical, and public health implications. We prioritized research from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) published in the last fifteen years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Extensive AHI research and limited routine AHI detection and treatment have begun in LMIC. Diagnostic challenges include ease-of-use, suitability for application and distribution in LMIC, and throughput for high-volume testing. Risk score algorithms have been used in LMIC to screen for AHI among individuals with behavioural and clinical characteristics more often associated with AHI. However, algorithms have not been implemented outside research settings. From a clinical perspective, there are substantial immunological and virological benefits to identifying and treating persons with AHI - evading the irreversible damage to host immune systems and seeding of viral reservoirs that occurs during untreated acute infection. The therapeutic benefits require rapid initiation of antiretrovirals, a logistical challenge in the absence of point-of-care testing. From a public health perspective, AHI diagnosis and treatment is critical to: decrease transmission via viral load reduction and behavioural interventions; improve pre-exposure prophylaxis outcomes by avoiding treatment initiation for HIV-seronegative persons with AHI; and, enhance partner services via notification for persons recently exposed or likely transmitting. CONCLUSIONS There are undeniable clinical and public health benefits to AHI detection and treatment, but also substantial diagnostic and logistical barriers to implementation and scale-up. Effective early ART initiation may be critical for HIV eradication efforts, but widespread use in LMIC requires simple and accurate diagnostic tools. Implementation research is critical to facilitate sustainable integration of AHI detection and treatment into existing health systems and will be essential for prospective evaluation of testing algorithms, point-of-care diagnostics, and efficacious and effective first-line regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E. Rutstein
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jintanat Ananworanich
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Fidler
- Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Cheryl Johnson
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Eduard J. Sanders
- Department of Global Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Omar Sued
- Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Asier Saez-Cirion
- Institut Pasteur, HIV Inflammation and Persistance Unit, Paris, France
| | | | - Christophe Fraser
- Big Data Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Myron S. Cohen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Marco Vitoria
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Meg Doherty
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Joseph D. Tucker
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- UNC Project-China, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Gibson DG, Ochieng B, Kagucia EW, Were J, Hayford K, Moulton LH, Levine OS, Odhiambo F, O'Brien KL, Feikin DR. Mobile phone-delivered reminders and incentives to improve childhood immunisation coverage and timeliness in Kenya (M-SIMU): a cluster randomised controlled trial. Lancet Glob Health 2017; 5:e428-e438. [PMID: 28288747 PMCID: PMC5348605 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(17)30072-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As mobile phone access continues to expand globally, opportunities exist to leverage these technologies to support demand for immunisation services and improve vaccine coverage. We aimed to assess whether short message service (SMS) reminders and monetary incentives can improve immunisation uptake in Kenya. METHODS In this cluster-randomised controlled trial, villages were randomly and evenly allocated to four groups: control, SMS only, SMS plus a 75 Kenya Shilling (KES) incentive, and SMS plus 200 KES (85 KES = USD$1). Caregivers were eligible if they had a child younger than 5 weeks who had not yet received a first dose of pentavalent vaccine. Participants in the intervention groups received SMS reminders before scheduled pentavalent and measles immunisation visits. Participants in incentive groups, additionally, received money if their child was timely immunised (immunisation within 2 weeks of the due date). Caregivers and interviewers were not masked. The proportion of fully immunised children (receiving BCG, three doses of polio vaccine, three doses of pentavalent vaccine, and measles vaccine) by 12 months of age constituted the primary outcome and was analysed with log-binomial regression and General Estimating Equations to account for correlation within clusters. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01878435. FINDINGS Between Oct 14, 2013, and Oct 17, 2014, we enrolled 2018 caregivers and their infants from 152 villages into the following four groups: control (n=489), SMS only (n=476), SMS plus 75 KES (n=562), and SMS plus 200 KES (n=491). Overall, 1375 (86%) of 1600 children who were successfully followed up achieved the primary outcome, full immunisation by 12 months of age (296 [82%] of 360 control participants, 332 [86%] of 388 SMS only participants, 383 [86%] of 446 SMS plus 75 KES participants, and 364 [90%] of 406 SMS plus 200 KES participants). Children in the SMS plus 200 KES group were significantly more likely to achieve full immunisation at 12 months of age (relative risk 1·09, 95% CI 1·02-1·16, p=0·014) than children in the control group. INTERPRETATION In a setting with high baseline immunisation coverage levels, SMS reminders coupled with incentives significantly improved immunisation coverage and timeliness. Given that global immunisation coverage levels have stagnated around 85%, the use of incentives might be one option to reach the remaining 15%. FUNDING Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin G Gibson
- International Vaccine Access Center, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Benard Ochieng
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Public Health and Research Collaboration, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - E Wangeci Kagucia
- International Vaccine Access Center, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joyce Were
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Public Health and Research Collaboration, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kyla Hayford
- International Vaccine Access Center, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lawrence H Moulton
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Orin S Levine
- International Vaccine Access Center, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Frank Odhiambo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Public Health and Research Collaboration, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Katherine L O'Brien
- International Vaccine Access Center, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniel R Feikin
- International Vaccine Access Center, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Talisuna AO, Oburu A, Githinji S, Malinga J, Amboko B, Bejon P, Jones C, Snow RW, Zurovac D. Efficacy of text-message reminders on paediatric malaria treatment adherence and their post-treatment return to health facilities in Kenya: a randomized controlled trial. Malar J 2017; 16:46. [PMID: 28122622 PMCID: PMC5267364 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-017-1702-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Short Message Service (SMS) reminders have been suggested as a potential intervention for improving adherence to medications and health facility attendance. METHODS An open-label, randomized, controlled trial to test the efficacy of automated SMS reminders in improving adherence to artemether-lumefantrine (AL) and post-treatment attendance in comparison with standard care was conducted at four health facilities in western Kenya. Children below five years of age with uncomplicated malaria were randomized to intervention (SMS reminders) or control groups. Within each study group they were further randomized to three categories, which determined the timing of home visits to measure adherence to complete AL course and to individual AL doses. A sub-set of caregivers was advised to return to the facility on day 3 and all were advised to return after 28 days. The primary outcomes were adherence to medication and return on day 3. The primary analysis was by intention-to-treat. RESULTS Between 9 June, 2014 and 26 February, 2016, 1677 children were enrolled. Of 562 children visited at home on day 3, all AL doses were completed for 97.6% (282/289) of children in the control and 97.8% (267/273) in the intervention group (OR = 1.10; 95% CI = 0.37-3.33; p = 0.860). When correct timing in taking each dose was considered a criteria for adherence, 72.3% (209/289) were adherent in the control and 69.2% (189/273) in the intervention group (OR = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.56-1.19; p = 0.302). Sending SMS reminders significantly increased odds of children returning to the facility on day 3 (81.4 vs 74.0%; OR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.15-2.08; p = 0.004) and on day 28 (63.4 vs 52.5%; OR = 1.58; 95% CI = 1.30-1.92; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In this efficacy trial, SMS reminders increased post-treatment return to the health facility, but had no effect on AL adherence which was high in both control and intervention groups. Further effectiveness studies under the real world conditions are needed to determine the optimum role of SMS reminders. Trial registration ISRCTN39512726.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambrose O. Talisuna
- KEMRI-Welcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Amos Oburu
- KEMRI-Welcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - Philip Bejon
- KEMRI-Welcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Caroline Jones
- KEMRI-Welcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert W. Snow
- KEMRI-Welcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Dejan Zurovac
- KEMRI-Welcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Mayer JE, Fontelo P. Meta-analysis on the effect of text message reminders for HIV-related compliance. AIDS Care 2016; 29:409-417. [PMID: 27477580 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2016.1214674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
For the treatment of HIV, compliance in regard to appointment attendance and medication usage is critical. Various methods have been attempted to increased HIV care compliance, and a method that has inspired many published studies is text message reminders. We conducted a meta-analysis of the literature from inception through May 2016 using the following databases: Pubmed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane. Examples of terms used in the search included exploded versions of "HIV, "AIDS", "cell phone", "SMS", "text message", "reminder". After abstract and manuscript review, articles were discussed with co-author and included based on consensus. We excluded qualitative analyses, observational studies without an intervention, and studies without a control or pre-intervention group. We used random-effects models to calculate odds ratios (OR) and standardized mean differences (SMDs) for the text message intervention. Thirty-four unique studies were found and included in the meta-analysis. For the seven articles relating to non-attendance, text message reminders significantly reduced the rates of non-attendance (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.48-0.92; P = .01; I2 = 52%). For the 20 articles on drug adherence, text message reminders significantly increased adherence (SMD, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.06-1.68; P = .04; I2 = 99%). For the 11 articles with physiologic measures (CD4 count or viral load), text message reminders led to significant improvement (SMD, 1.53; 95% CI, 0.52-2.55; P = .003; I2 = 99%). This meta-analysis reveals that text message reminders are a promising intervention that can be used to increase HIV care compliance when logistically feasible. Further study should focus on which populations benefit the most from this intervention, and successful implementers could create an established technological infrastructure for other clinics to adopt when seeking to boost compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan E Mayer
- a Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Paul Fontelo
- b National Library of Medicine , Lister Hill National Center for Biomedical Communications, National Institutes of Health , Bethesda , MD , USA
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