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Terefe B, Jembere MM, Reda GB, Asgedom DK, Assefa SK, Lakew AM. Knowledge, and utilization of HIV self-testing, and its associated factors among women in sub-Saharan Africa: evidence from 21 countries demographic and health survey. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1960. [PMID: 39044258 PMCID: PMC11265320 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19529-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV Self-Testing (HIVST) holds great significance in the fight against the HIV epidemic in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It offers a convenient and confidential option for individuals to know their HIV status and seek appropriate care and support. For women in this region, where stigma, discrimination, and lack of access to healthcare services are prevalent, HIVST can empower them to take control of their health and make informed decisions. However, no study in the region has been conducted on this topic. Hence, this study aimed to fill the evidence, and population gaps by identifying women's HIVST knowledge, and utilization, and its associated factors in SSA. METHODS The data used were gathered from the most recent demographic and health surveys conducted in SSA nations between 2015 and 2022. We incorporated DHS data from 21 countries into our investigation. For our analysis, we used a weighted sample of 270,241 women overall was utilized. To handle both individual and community level factors, a multilevel logistic regression was used for the analysis. The adjusted odds ratio and its 95% confidence interval were then presented, and variables with univariate multilevel regression p-values of ≤ 0.25 and in multivariable multilevel logistic regression < 0.05 p value were considered significant factors of HIVST. RESULTS The overall prevalence of knowledge, and utilization of HIVST among women was about 2.17 (95% CI: 2.12, 2.23) only. Women aged 25-34 years old (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.65,1.92), and 35-49 years old (AOR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.22,1.46), primary education(AOR = 1.25, 95%CI: 1.12, 1.38), and secondary/higher education (AOR = 3.08, 95% CI: 2.79, 3.41), poorer (AOR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.38), middle (AOR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.37), richer (AOR = 1.45, 95% CI 1.45, 1.64), and richest (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.59, 2.05), employed (AOR = 1.73 05% CI: 1.62, 1.85), mass media exposure (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.31, 1.49), knew modern contraception (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI: 1.84, 4.13), health facility delivery (AOR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.37), being from urban (AOR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.63, 1.73), divorced or widowed (AOR = 77, 95% CI:1.13, 1.34), have more than one sexual partners (AOR =, 95% CI: 1.24, 1.41), heard about STIs (AOR 7.47 =, 95% CI: 5.16, 10.81), high community ANC coverage (AOR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.31, 1.63), high community mass media (AOR = 1.37 95% CI: 1.21, 1.56), Central/Southern Africa (AOR = 0.66 95% CI: 0.59,0.74), and East Africa regions (AOR = 0.87 95% CI: 0.81,0.94) were associated with the knowledge and utilization of HIVST. CONCLUSIONS The level of knowledge and utilization of HIVST among women in SSA was very low. To improve this situation, maternal health services can be enhanced. This can be achieved by facilitating institutional delivery, promoting access to modern contraception, increasing ANC coverage, empowering women's associations, creating culturally respectful mass media content, and involving rural and economically disadvantaged women. By implementing these measures, we can enhance women's knowledge and improve their use of HIVST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bewuketu Terefe
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Mahlet Moges Jembere
- Department of Emergency, and Critical Care Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gashachew Bayleyegn Reda
- Department of Emergency, and Critical Care Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Dejen Kahsay Asgedom
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Samara University, Afar, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Keflie Assefa
- Pawe Health Science College, Northwest, Ethiopia
- Department of Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Ayenew Molla Lakew
- Department of Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Lealem EB, Zeleke EG, Andargie BA, Wagnew A. Pooled prevalence, spatial variation and associated factors of HIV testing uptake among multiple sexual partners in Sub Saharan Africa: Spatial and multilevel analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306770. [PMID: 38990916 PMCID: PMC11239050 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uptake of HIV testing is vital for the early diagnosis of HIV infection and initiation of treatment, which are used to eliminate the disease's progression and reduce HIV-related mortality. Even if determining HIV testing is imperative to prevent HIV/AIDS among multiple sexual partners who are at higher risk of sexually transmitted infections, most of the countries in Sub Saharan Africa did not fulfil the global targets of UNAIDS. Moreover there is a paucity of literature on spatial variation and factors associated with HIV testing among high-risk groups in SSA. This study aimed to assess the pooled prevalence, spatial variation and determinants of HIV testing uptake among multiple sexual partners in Sub Saharan Africa. METHODS The Demographic and Health Surveys data conducted between 2011 and 2021 in 30 Sub-Saharan Africa countries was used to analyze total weighted sample of 56,210 multiple sexual partners. Exploratory spatial data analysis, with countries as the unit of analysis was conducted using ArcGIS V10.7.1 and Sat Scan V 10.1 soft wares. A multilevel binary logistic regression model was used to identify the factors associated with the HIV testing uptake. The Adjusted odds Ratio with a 95% confidence interval was reported to declare the strength of association and their statistical significance. RESULTS The spatial patterns of HIV testing uptake were found to be non-random. Primary clusters were identified around western and central sub- regions. Multiple sexual partners who were ever married, those attended primary level and above education, those from rich wealth status, aged above 24 years, having good HIV related knowledge, and exposed to media were positive association with HIV testing uptake. However, being male, having working status and living in rural area were negatively associated with HIV testing uptake. At the community-level, multiple sexual partners from communities in Eastern and southern sub regions, countries with upper middle income and countries with the survey year after 2014 were more likely to utilize HIV testing services compared with their counterparts. CONCLUSION In this study, the pooled prevalence of the HIV testing uptake among multiple sexual partners was found to be lower than the universal target and showed differences in HIV testing uptake across Sub-Saharan Africa region. Both individual and community-level factors affected HIV testing uptake among multiple sexual partners. Stakeholders should implement interventions to help increase the uptake of HIV testing among those risky groups in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emebet Birhanu Lealem
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Ejigu Gebeye Zeleke
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Betelhem Abebe Andargie
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Alemakef Wagnew
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Sabin L, Haghparast-Bidgoli H, Miller F, Saville N. A systematic review of barriers and facilitators to antenatal screening for HIV, syphilis or hepatitis B in Asia: Perspectives of pregnant women, their relatives and health care providers. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300581. [PMID: 38820339 PMCID: PMC11142523 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite improvements, the prevalence of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B remains high in Asia. These sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be transmitted from infected mothers to their children. Antenatal screening and treatment are effective interventions to prevent mother-to-child transmission (MTCT), but coverage of antenatal screening remains low. Understanding factors influencing antenatal screening is essential to increase its uptake and design effective interventions. This systematic literature review aims to investigate barriers and facilitators to antenatal screening for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B in Asia. METHODS We conducted a systematic review by searching Ovid (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO), Scopus, Global Index Medicus and Web of Science for published articles between January 2000 and June 2023, and screening abstracts and full articles. Eligible studies include peer-reviewed journal articles of quantitative, qualitative and mixed-method studies that explored factors influencing the use of antenatal screening for HIV, syphilis or hepatitis B in Asia. We extracted key information including study characteristics, sample, aim, identified barriers and facilitators to screening. We conducted a narrative synthesis to summarise the findings and presented barriers and facilitators following Andersen's conceptual model. RESULTS The literature search revealed 23 articles suitable for inclusion, 19 used quantitative methods, 3 qualitative and one mixed method. We found only three studies on syphilis screening and one on hepatitis B. The analysis demonstrates that antenatal screening for HIV in Asia is influenced by many barriers and facilitators including (1) predisposing characteristics of pregnant women (age, education level, knowledge) (2) enabling factors (wealth, place of residence, husband support, health facilities characteristics, health workers support and training) (3) need factors of pregnant women (risk perception, perceived benefits of screening). CONCLUSION Knowledge of identified barriers to antenatal screening may support implementation of appropriate interventions to prevent MTCT and help countries achieve Sustainable Development Goals' targets for HIV and STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Sabin
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Faith Miller
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Naomi Saville
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Chipungu J, Smith H, Mwamba C, Haambokoma M, Sharma A, Savory T, Musheke M, Pry J, Bolton C, Sikazwe I, Herce ME. An exploration of multi-level factors affecting routine linkage to HIV care in Zambia's PEPFAR-supported treatment program in the treat all era. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003094. [PMID: 38781275 PMCID: PMC11115257 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Multiple steps from HIV diagnosis to treatment initiation and confirmed engagement with the health system are required for people living with HIV to establish full linkage to care in the modern treat all era. We undertook a qualitative study to gain an in-depth understanding of the impeding and enabling factors at each step of this linkage pathway. In-depth interviews were conducted with fifty-eight people living with HIV recruited from ten routine HIV care settings supported by the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) in Lusaka, Zambia. Using a semi-structured interview guide informed by an established conceptual framework for linkage to care, questions explored the reasons behind late, missed, and early linkage into HIV treatment, as well as factors influencing the decision to silently transfer to a different clinic after an HIV diagnosis. We identified previously established and intersecting barriers of internal and external HIV-related stigma, concerns about ART side effects, substance use, uncertainties for the future, and a perceived lack of partner and social support that impeded linkage to care at every step of the linkage pathway. However, we also uncovered newer themes specific to the current test and treat era related to the rapidity of ART initiation and insufficient patient-centered post-test counseling that appeared to exacerbate these well-known barriers, including callous health workers and limited time to process a new HIV diagnosis before treatment. Long travel distance to the clinic where they were diagnosed was the most common reason for silently transferring to another clinic for treatment. On the other hand, individual resilience, quality counseling, patient-centered health workers, and a supportive and empathetic social network mitigated these barriers. These findings highlight potential areas for strengthening linkage to care and addressing early treatment interruption and silent transfer in the test and treat era in Zambia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenala Chipungu
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Helene Smith
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Chanda Mwamba
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mwiza Haambokoma
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Anjali Sharma
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Theodora Savory
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Maurice Musheke
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jake Pry
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Carolyn Bolton
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Izukanji Sikazwe
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michael E. Herce
- Research Department, Social and Behavioral Science Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
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Aggarwal A, Zhang R, Qiao S, Wang B, Lwatula C, Menon A, Ostermann J, Li X, Harper G. Physician-Patient Interaction Quality Mediates the Association Between HIV-Related Stigma and HIV-Prevention Behaviors Among Sexual Minority Men in Zambia. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1559-1569. [PMID: 37874436 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04171-4] [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: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
HIV-related stigma is a major challenge to HIV prevention for sexual minority men (SMM) in Zambia, but little is known about the underlying mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate whether physician-patient interaction quality mediates the relationship between HIV-related stigma and HIV-prevention behaviors among SMM. Data were collected using a cross-sectional survey from 194 SMM (aged: mean = 24.08, SD = 4.27) across four districts in Zambia between February and November 2021. Participants were asked about their demographic characteristics, HIV-related stigma, SMM-related stigma, physician-patient interaction quality, HIV-testing intention, and use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Path analysis was used to test the mediation effect of physician-patient interaction quality in the associations of HIV-related stigma/SMM-related stigma with HIV-testing intention and current PrEP use. Higher self-reported physician-patient interaction quality was negatively associated with HIV-related stigma (β = - 0.444, z = - 2.223, p < 0.05), and positively associated with HIV-testing intention (β = 0.039, z = 5.121, p < 0.001) and current PrEP use (β = 0.008, z = 2.723, p < 0.01). HIV-related stigma among SMM had a significant and negative indirect effect on HIV-testing intention (β = - 0.017, z = - 2.006, p < 0.05), and current PrEP use (β = - 0.004, z = - 2.009, p < 0.05) through physician-patient interaction quality. Contrary to our expectations, SMM-related stigma did not have a significant and negative indirect effect on HIV prevention behaviors through physician-patient interaction quality. Health interventions need to improve physician-patient interaction quality by offering healthcare provider training, targeting HIV-related stigma in healthcare settings, and devising inclusive healthcare policies to promote HIV prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Aggarwal
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Ran Zhang
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Shan Qiao
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA.
| | - Bo Wang
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Boston, USA
| | | | - Anitha Menon
- Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jan Ostermann
- Department of Health Service Policy and Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Gary Harper
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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Shimbre MS, Tunja A, Bodicha BB, Belete AG, Hailgebereal S, Fornah L, Ma W. Spatial mapping and predictors of ever-tested for HIV in adolescent girls and young women in Ethiopia. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1337354. [PMID: 38633231 PMCID: PMC11021716 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1337354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are expected to be healthy in life. However, the unique health challenges faced by AGYW include unsafe sex practices and substance abuse. Only 46.3% of AGYW in Africa are aware of their HIV status, and difficulties are underlined in HIV testing among adolescents and young people. To demarcate the areas with low and high HIV testing, this study aimed to map predictors of ever-tested for HIV among adolescent girls and young women in Ethiopia. Methods Secondary data analysis was conducted using the dataset from the 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey (EHDS). We conducted spatial autocorrelation and Moran's I statistics to investigate the regional variance of HIV being ever-tested in AGYW. In addition, spatial regression analyses such as ordinary least squares (OLS) regression and geographically weighted regression (GWR) were carried out to determine the predictors of being ever-tested for HIV among AGYW. Results Addis Ababa, some parts of Amhara, Dire Dawa, Gambela, and Tigray were the primary regions and city administrations for being ever-tested for HIV among AGYW. A lesser proportion of AGYW being ever-tested for HIV was found in Somalia, Afar, Benshangul Gumuz, and southern nations. Spatial regression analyses identified an age range of 15-19 years, being Muslim, having no formal education, having no knowledge about HIV, and experiencing severe stigma as predictors of being ever-tested for HIV among AGYW. Conclusion The proportion of AGYW being ever-tested for HIV was high in Addis Ababa, some parts of Amhara, Dire Dawa, Gambela, and Tigray. Spatial regression analyses identified that AGYW aged 15-19 years, having no formal education, having no knowledge about HIV, and experiencing severe community stigma as predictors negatively affecting the proportion of being ever-tested for HIV, while being Muslim was a predictor that positively affected the proportion of being ever-tested for HIV. The governments and other stakeholders should focus on increasing HIV testing among these special groups of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulugeta Shegaze Shimbre
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Schools of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Abayneh Tunja
- Schools of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Belay Boda Bodicha
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Gedefaw Belete
- Schools of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Samuel Hailgebereal
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wachamo University, Hosaena, Ethiopia
| | - Lovel Fornah
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Ngoma MT, Sitali D, Mudenda S, Mukuma M, Bumbangi FN, Bunuma E, Skjerve E, Muma JB. Community antibiotic consumption and associated factors in Lusaka district of Zambia: findings and implications for antimicrobial resistance and stewardship. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2024; 6:dlae034. [PMID: 38449513 PMCID: PMC10914457 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlae034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health crisis. This study assessed the general public's consumption of antibiotics and associated factors in the Lusaka district of Zambia. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among 2038 participants between December 2022 and January 2023. Data were analysed using Stata 13.0. Multivariable regression techniques were used to determine the factors that influenced antibiotic consumption. Results Of the 2038 participants, 53.4% were female, and 51.5% had attended at least secondary school. Antibiotic use was 99.2%, of which 40.9% were appropriately used. Overall, 79.1% of antibiotics were prescribed in hospitals, while 20.9% were used from leftovers and accessed without prescriptions. This study found that the appropriate use of antibiotics was associated with being female, being aged 35 years and above, attaining secondary school or tertiary education, having a monthly expenditure of 195 USD and above, being aware that antibiotics were not the same as painkillers, and being confident that when someone was hospitalized, they would get well. Conclusions This study found that the appropriate use of antibiotics was low, and this is an urgent public health issue requiring community engagement in tackling AMR and adherence to treatment guidelines in healthcare facilities. Additionally, there is a need to implement and strengthen antimicrobial stewardship programmes in healthcare facilities to promote the rational use of antibiotics in Zambia. There is also a need to heighten community awareness campaigns and educational activities on the appropriate use of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maty Tsumbu Ngoma
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Doreen Sitali
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Steward Mudenda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mercy Mukuma
- Department of Food Science, School of Agricultural Sciences and Nutrition, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Flavien Nsoni Bumbangi
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, Eden University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Emmanuel Bunuma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Eystein Skjerve
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - John Bwalya Muma
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
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Kadye T, Jamil MS, Johnson C, Baggaley R, Barr-DiChiara M, Cambiano V. Country uptake of WHO recommendations on differentiated HIV testing services approaches: a global policy review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e058098. [PMID: 38485173 PMCID: PMC10941124 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In 2015 and 2016, WHO issued guidelines on HIV testing services (HTS) highlighting recommendations for a strategic mix of differentiated HTS approaches. The policy review examines the uptake of differentiated HTS approaches recommendations in national policies. METHODS Data were extracted from national policies published between January 2015 and June 2019. The WHO-recommended HTS approaches included facility-based testing, community-based testing, HIV self-testing and provider-assisted referral (or assisted partner notification). Other supportive recommendations include pre-test information, post-test counselling, lay provider testing and rapid testing. Descriptive analyses were conducted to examine inclusion of recommendations in national policies. RESULTS Of 194 countries worldwide, 65 published policies were identified; 24 WHO Africa region (AFR) countries (51%, 24/47), 21 WHO European region (EUR) (40%, 21/53), 6 WHO Eastern Mediterranean region (EMR) (29%, 6/21), 5 Pan-American region (AMR) (14%, 5/35), 5 Western Pacific Region (WPR) (19%, 5/27) and 4 WHO South East Asia Region (SEAR) (36%, 4/11). Only five countries included all recommendations. 63 included a minimum of one. 85% (n=55) included facility-based testing for pregnant women, 75% (n=49) facility-based testing for key populations, 74% (n=48) community-based testing for key populations, 69% (n=45) rapid testing, 57% (n=37) post-test counselling, 45% (n=29) lay provider testing, 38% (n=25) HIV self-testing, 29% (n=19) pre-test information and 25% (n=16) provider-assisted referral. The proportion in each region that included at least one recommendation were: 100% AFR (24/47), 100% EMR (6/6), 100% AMR (5/5), 100% WPR (5/5), 100% SEAR (4/4) and 95% EUR (20/21). AFR followed by EMR included the highest number of reccomendations. CONCLUSION There was substantial variability in the uptake of the WHO-differentiated HTS recommendations. Those in EMR included the most WHO-differentiated HTS recommendation followed by AFR. Countries within AMR included the least number of recommendations. Ongoing advocacy and efforts are needed to support the uptake of the WHO-differentiated HTS recommendations in country policies as well as their implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cheryl Johnson
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Magdalena Barr-DiChiara
- Department of Global Programmes of HIV, Hepatitis and HIV, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Mahlalela NB, Manne-Goehler J, Ohene-Kwofie D, B Adams L, Montana L, Kahn K, Rohr JK, Bärnighausen T, Gómez-Olivé FX. The Association Between HIV-Related Stigma and the Uptake of HIV Testing and ART Among Older Adults in Rural South Africa: Findings from the HAALSI Cohort Study. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1104-1121. [PMID: 38286975 PMCID: PMC10896802 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04222-w] [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: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) remain critical for curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS, but stigma can impede access to these services. Using data from the Health and Aging in Africa: A Longitudinal Study of an INDEPTH Community in South Africa (HAALSI), we used a multivariable logistic regression to examine the correlation between HIV-related stigma, HIV testing and ART uptake in older adults. We used four questions to measure stigma, with three assessing social stigma (reflecting social distancing preferences) and one assessing anticipated stigma (disclosure concern). We combined the three social stigma questions to generate a social stigma score ranging from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating higher stigma. Anticipated stigma was prevalent 85% (95% CI 0.84-0.86), and social stigma was also frequent 25% (95% CI 0.24-0.27). Higher social stigma scores correlated with decreased HIV testing for all participants with social stigma. Compared to those with a score of 0, odds of testing decreased with higher stigma scores (OR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.53-0.81, p = 0.000) for a score of 1 and (OR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.38-0.83, p = 0.004) for a score of 3. ART uptake also decreased with higher social stigma scores among people living with HIV (PLWH), although it was significant for those with a score of 2 (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.19-0.87, p = 0.020). These findings emphasize that HIV-related stigma hampers testing and ART uptake among older adults in rural South Africa. Addressing stigma is crucial for improving testing rates, early diagnosis, and treatment initiation among the older population and achieving UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nomsa B Mahlalela
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Jennifer Manne-Goehler
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Ohene-Kwofie
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Leslie B Adams
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Livia Montana
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- The DHS Program, ICF, Rockville MD, USA
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Julia K Rohr
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Mtubatuba, South Africa
| | - Francesc X Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Terefe B. HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt among East African women of reproductive age using recent national health surveys. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 6:1305671. [PMID: 38384397 PMCID: PMC10879555 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1305671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction One of the most important public health concerns is still the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), particularly in developing countries. Although HIV testing is an important step in both prevention and treatment, its uptake remains low, and no study has looked into the scale of HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt among East African women all at the same time. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt, as well as the factors that influence them, among East African women. Methods This analysis used Demographic and Health Survey data collected from 10 East African countries between 2011 and 2022. We examined the coverage of HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt among East African women, as well as other characteristics. To select candidate factors and identify significant explanatory variables related to the outcome variable, binary and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted, and the results were presented using adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals. In the binary and multiple logistic regression analyses, P values of less than or equal to 0.2 and <0.05 were used to assess significant variables, respectively. Results A total of 41,627 weighted women included to this study. HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt among East African women were found to be 77.86% (95% CI = 77.46, 78.26). Being 25-34 years old (AOR = 1.13, 95% CI, 1.06, 1.21), 35-49 years old (AOR = 1.15, 95% CI, 1.05, 1.26) as compared to 15-24 years old women, primary education (AOR = 1.75, 95% CI, 1.64, 1.86), secondary/higher education level (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI, 1.82, 2.13) as compared to not educated women, poor, (AOR = 1.22, 95% CI, 1.14, 1.29), middle wealth (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI, 1.04, 1.21) as compared to rich wealth index, mass media exposure (AOR = 1.29, 95% CI, 1.22, 1.35), 3-5 parity (AOR = 1.29, 95% CI, 1.21, 1.37), more than 5 parity (AOR = 1.46, 95% CI, 1.33, 1.61) as compared to <3 parity, health institution delivery (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI, 1.53, 1.76), were associated positively with the outcome variable respectively. However, being married (AOR = 0.79, 95% CI, 0.72, 0.87), not using contraceptive (AOR = 0.58, 95% CI, 0.51, 0.61), and traditional contraceptive method user (AOR = 0.47, 95% CI, 0.41, 0.54) as compared to modern users were associated negatively with outcome variable respectively. Conclusion This study found that HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt are still unsatisfactory. Strengthening maternal health services such as institutional delivery, family planning, and women's empowerment, as well as changing mass media and taking advantage of these opportunities, will boost the region's coverage of HIV counseling, testing, and obtaining results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bewuketu Terefe
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Zhang R, Qiao S, Aggarwal A, Yuan G, Muttau N, Sharma A, Lwatula C, Ngosa L, Kabwe M, Manasyan A, Menon A, Ostermann J, Weissman S, Li X, Harper GW. Impact of enacted stigma on mental health, substance use, and HIV-related behaviors among sexual minority men in Zambia. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2024; 48:51-58. [PMID: 38453282 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Sexual minority men (SMM) in Zambia face significant challenges including stigma, discrimination, and mental health issues, which further impact their HIV-related risk behaviors. This study aimed to investigate the associations between enacted stigma, substance abuse, HIV-related behaviors, and mental health (i.e., depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD] symptoms) among SMM in Zambia. SMM aged 18-35 years who reported having multiple and/or concurrent sexual partners or low and/or inconsistent condom use in the past three months were recruited from four districts in Zambia between February and November 2021. Participants completed an anonymous interviewer-administered survey. Key variables of interest were compared between participants with higher vs. lower levels of enacted stigma. Independent samples t-tests were used for continuous variables, and chi-squared tests were used for categorical variables. A total of 197 eligible SMM participated in the study (mean age = 24.41 years). Participants with a higher level of enacted stigma showed a higher level of anxiety symptoms (χ2 = 12.91, p ≤ .001), PTSD symptoms (χ2 = 7.13, p < .01), tobacco use (χ2 = 10.47, p < .01), cannabis use (χ2 = 5.90, p < .05), and a higher number of sexual partners (t = 1.99, p < .05) in the past three months. Stigma reduction interventions may help mitigate substance abuse, HIV-related behaviors, and adverse mental health outcomes among SMM in Zambia. Health care providers, especially psychiatric-mental health nurses, can incorporate strategies for recognizing and addressing stigma into their practice through training and integrate multiple resources to create an inclusive and non-judgmental environment for SMM to improve their well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Zhang
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Shan Qiao
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA.
| | | | - Guangzhe Yuan
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Nobutu Muttau
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Anjali Sharma
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Levy Ngosa
- Dignitate Zambia Limited, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Albert Manasyan
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia; University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Jan Ostermann
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Xiaoming Li
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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Shaba F, Balakasi KT, Offorjebe OA, Nyirenda M, Wong VJ, Gupta SK, Hoffman RM, Dovel K. Facility HIV Self-Testing in Outpatient Departments: An Assessment of Characteristics and Concerns of Outpatients Who Opt Out of Testing in Malawi. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:151-160. [PMID: 37977194 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Facility HIV self-testing (HIVST) in outpatient departments can dramatically increase testing among adult outpatients. However, it is still unclear why populations opt out of facility HIVST and reasons for opt outing. Using data from a parent facility HIVST trial, we sought to understand individual characteristics associated with opting out of facility HIVST and reported reasons for not testing. METHODS Exit surveys were conducted with outpatients aged ≥15 years at 5 facilities in Central and Southern Malawi randomized to the facility HIVST arm of the parent trial. Outpatients were eligible for our substudy if they were offered HIVST and eligible for HIV testing (ie, never previously tested HIV positive and tested ≥12 months ago or never tested). Summary statistics and multivariate regression models were used. RESULTS Seven hundred seventy-one outpatients were included in the substudy. Two hundred sixty-three (34%) opted out of HIVST. Urban residency (adjusted risk ratios [aRR] 3.48; 95% CI: 1.56 to 7.76) and self-reported poor health (aRR 1.86; 95% CI: 1.27 to 2.72) were associated with an increased risk of opting out. Male participants had a 69% higher risk of opting out (aRR 1.69; 95% CI: 1.14 to 2.51), with risk being 38% lower among working male participants. Primary reasons for not testing were feeling unprepared to test (49·4%) and perceived low risk of HIV infection (30·4%)-only 2.6% believed that HIVST instructions were unclear, and 1.7% were concerned about privacy. CONCLUSION Working, risky sexual behavior, rural residence, and good self-rated health were positively associated with opting out of HIVST among outpatients. Strategies to address internalized barriers, such as preparedness to test and perceived need to test, should be incorporated into facility HIVST interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ogechukwu A Offorjebe
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, CA
- School of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Vincent J Wong
- Office of HIV/AIDS, United States Agency for International Development, Washington, DC; and
| | - Sundeep K Gupta
- Partners in Hope, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Risa M Hoffman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kathryn Dovel
- Partners in Hope, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
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Putri WCWS, Ulandari LPS, Valerie IC, Prabowo BR, Hardiawan D, Sihaloho ED, Relaksana R, Wardhani BDK, Harjana NPA, Nugrahani NW, Siregar AYM, Januraga PP. Costs and scale-up costs of community-based Oral HIV Self-Testing for female sex workers and men who have sex with men in Jakarta and Bali, Indonesia. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:114. [PMID: 38254186 PMCID: PMC10802071 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10577-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The proportion of individuals who know their HIV status in Indonesia (66% in 2021) still remains far below the first 95% of UNAIDS 2030 target and were much lower in certain Key Populations (KPs) particularly Female Sex Workers (FSW) and Male having Sex with Male (MSM). Indonesia has implemented Oral HIV Self-testing (oral HIVST) through Community-based screening (HIV CBS) in addition to other testing modalities aimed at hard-to-reach KPs, but the implementation cost is still not analysed. This study provides the cost and scale up cost estimation of HIV CBS in Jakarta and Bali, Indonesia. METHODS We estimated the societal cost of HIV CBS that was implemented through NGOs. The HIV CBS's total and unit cost were estimated from HIV CBS outcome, health care system cost and client costs. Cost data were presented by input, KPs and areas. Health care system cost inputs were categorized into capital and recurrent cost both in start-up and implementation phases. Client costs were categorized as direct medical, direct non-medical cost and indirect costs. Sensitivity and scenario analyses for scale up were performed. RESULTS In total, 5350 and 1401 oral HIVST test kits were distributed for HIV CBS in Jakarta and Bali, respectively. Average total client cost for HIV CBS Self testing process ranged from US$1.9 to US$12.2 for 1 day and US$2.02 to US$33.61 for 2 days process. Average total client cost for HIV CBS confirmation test ranged from US$2.83 to US$18.01. From Societal Perspective, the cost per HIVST kit distributed were US$98.59 and US$40.37 for FSW and MSM in Jakarta andUS$35.26 and US$43.31 for FSW and MSM in Bali. CONCLUSIONS CBS using oral HIVST approach varied widely along with characteristics of HIV CBS volume and cost. HIV CBS was most costly among FSW in Jakarta, attributed to the low HIV CBS volume, high personnel salary cost and client cost. Future approaches to minimize cost and/or maximize testing coverage could include unpaid community led distribution to reach end-users, integrating HIVST into routine clinical services via direct or secondary distribution and using social media network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayan Citra Wulan Sucipta Putri
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Jl. P. B. Sudirman, Denpasar, Bali, 80232, Indonesia.
| | - Luh Putu Sinthya Ulandari
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Jl. P. B. Sudirman, Denpasar, Bali, 80232, Indonesia
| | - Ivy Cerelia Valerie
- Center for Public Health Innovation (CPHI), Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | | | - Donny Hardiawan
- Center for Economics and Development Studies (CEDS), Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Estro Dariatno Sihaloho
- Center for Economics and Development Studies (CEDS), Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Riki Relaksana
- Center for Economics and Development Studies (CEDS), Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Nur Wulan Nugrahani
- Center for Public Health Innovation (CPHI), Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Adiatma Yudistira Manogar Siregar
- Center for Economics and Development Studies (CEDS), Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Pande Putu Januraga
- Center for Public Health Innovation (CPHI), Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
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Joseph F, Jean Simon D, Kondo Tokpovi VC, Kiragu A, Toudeka MRAS, Nazaire R. Trends and factors associated with recent HIV testing among women in Haiti: a cross-sectional study using data from nationally representative surveys. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:74. [PMID: 38212702 PMCID: PMC10782569 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08936-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the Latin America and Caribbean region, Haiti is one of the countries with the highest rates of HIV. Therefore, this study examined the factors associated with HIV testing among women in Haiti and trends in HIV testing in 2006, 2012, and 2016/17. METHODS Data from the last three Haitian Demographic and Health Surveys (2006, 2012, and 2016/17) were used. The analysis was restricted to women aged of 15-49 years who made their sexual debut. STATA/SE 16.0 was employed to analyze the data by computing descriptive statistics, Chi‑square, and multilevel regression model to describe the trends and identify factors associated with HIV testing in Haiti. P-value less than 0.05 was taken as a significant association. RESULTS HIV testing prevalence increased more than twofold from 2006 (8.8%) to 2017 (21.3%); however, it decreased by 11.6% between 2012 and 2016/17. Additionally, the results indicated that age, place of residence, region, education level, wealth index, mass media exposure, marital status, health insurance, age at first sex and number of sexual partners were significantly associated with HIV testing. CONCLUSIONS To significantly increase HIV testing prevalence among women, the Haitian government must invest much more in their health education while targeting vulnerable groups (youth, women in union, and women with low economic status).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanor Joseph
- Doctoral School of Social and Human Sciences, University of Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
- Bureau d'Etudes Et de Recherche en Statistiques Appliquées, Suivi Et Evaluation (BERSA-SE), Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - David Jean Simon
- Bureau d'Etudes Et de Recherche en Statistiques Appliquées, Suivi Et Evaluation (BERSA-SE), Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
| | | | - Ann Kiragu
- Department of Law and Political and Social Sciences, University of Sorbonne Paris Nord, Paris, France
| | | | - Roodjmie Nazaire
- Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie (FMP), Université d'Etat d'Haïti (UEH), Port-Au-Prince, Haiti
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Qiao S, Garrett CM, Addo PNO, Adeagbo O, Moore DM, Muttau N, Sharma A, Lwatula C, Ngosa L, Kabwe M, Manasyan A, Menon JA, Weissman S, Li X, Harper GW. The Impacts of Stigma Against Sexual Minority Men Within and Between Various Socioecological Levels: Breaking the Vicious Cycle in Zambia. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231209190. [PMID: 37909703 PMCID: PMC10621297 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231209190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual minority men (SMM) face persistent stigma in Zambia. From a holistic perspective, we aim to explore its impacts within and between multiple socioecological levels, demonstrating how their interactions create a vicious cycle of barriers to the well-being of SMM. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 purposively recruited SMM from Lusaka, Zambia. All interviews were audio-recorded, after written consent, transcribed verbatim, and iteratively coded employing inductive (i.e., data-driven) approaches for thematic analysis using NVivo. Results suggest three key themes: (1) interpersonal socially perpetuated sexual minority stigma (SMS); (2) multidirectional interactions between psychosocial well-being and risk-taking behaviors; and (3) institutionally perpetuated SMS as a barrier to seeking and receiving health care. SMS permeates across all levels of the socioecological model to negatively impact the psychosocial well-being of SMM while acting also as a barrier to accessing HIV prevention and care. Our study necessitates structural public health intervention to decrease stigma and discrimination against SMM in Zambia, in efforts to increase their psychosocial well-being as well as their access to and utilization of HIV care by breaking the vicious cycle of SMS that pervades through the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and institutional levels of the socioecological model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Qiao
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Camryn M. Garrett
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Prince N. O. Addo
- Department of Epidemiology, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Oluwafemi Adeagbo
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Darius M. Moore
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nobutu Muttau
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Anjali Sharma
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Levy Ngosa
- Dignitate Zambia Limited (DZL), Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Albert Manasyan
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Sharon Weissman
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine Columbia, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Gary W. Harper
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Roshanfekr P, Karimi SE, Narouee S, Moftakhar L, Vameghi M, Ali D, Higgs P, Soleimanvandiazar N. Life-time HIV testing among people who inject drugs in Iran: results from the National Rapid Assessment and Response survey. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1253407. [PMID: 37915820 PMCID: PMC10616789 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1253407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background HIV testing is recommended for people who inject drugs (PWID). The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of lifetime HIV testing among PWID and to better understand the predictors for HIV testing in a convenience sample across Iran. Materials and methods This study is a secondary analysis of Iran's National Rapid Assessment and Response survey conducted between October 2016 and March 2017. Analysis includes the 999 people who reported injecting drugs across the capital cities of 21 provinces. Data were collected by using the venue-based application of the Time Location Sampling (TLS) frame. Chi-square tests were used to examine the difference between HIV testing across different quantitative variables. Logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of life-time HIV testing. Analysis was performed using STATA V.12 software with a significance level of 95%. Results Most participants were male (n = 902, 93.50%), and over half (n = 555, 59.17%) were older than 35 years old. About one-third, (n = 326, 38%) of people interviewed were single and another one-third (n = 251, 29%) reported being divorced. Over two-thirds of participants (n = 678, 69.78%) in this study reported lifetime HIV testing. The results from a multiple variable logistic regression showed people with a university education were more likely to have been previously tested for HIV than illiterate people (OR = 18.87, 95%CI 2.85-124.6, value of p = 0.002). Those individuals who reported ever receiving methadone treatment were 2.8 times more likely to have been tested for HIV than individuals without methadone treatment experience (OR = 2.89, 95%CI 1.53-5.42, value of p < 0.001). Needle syringe sharing in last month, was negatively associated with life-time HIV testing (OR = 0.29, 95%CI 0.17-0.48, value of p < 0.001). Conclusion Despite Iran's wide availability and access to counseling services for HIV testing in key populations, the proportion of PWID being tested for HIV could be improved. Developing effective strategies to increase people's understanding and awareness of the importance of and need for HIV prevention and familiarity with HIV testing sites is an essential step in increasing HIV testing for this population. Studies on more recent HIV testing are required to better assess and understand the frequency of HIV testing among PWID in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payam Roshanfekr
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Salah Eddin Karimi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Health Management and Safety Promotion Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sakineh Narouee
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Kerman University Medical of Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Leila Moftakhar
- Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Meroe Vameghi
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Delaram Ali
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peter Higgs
- Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Behaviours and Health Risks Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Neda Soleimanvandiazar
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Musonda E, Phiri M, Shasha L, Bwalya C, Musemangezhi S, Ishimwe SMC, Kalinda C. Prevalence of HIV testing uptake among the never-married young men (15-24) in sub-Saharan Africa: An analysis of demographic and health survey data (2015-2020). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292182. [PMID: 37796957 PMCID: PMC10553359 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In sub-Saharan Africa, HIV and AIDS remain a major public health concern among adolescents and young men. HIV testing is the first critical step for linking infected individuals to HIV treatment and prevention. However, HIV-testing uptake among sexually active young men remains low in the region. This study was conducted to assess the HIV testing rates among unmarried young men in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Using data from the most recent country Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2020, in 18 sub-Saharan African countries, an Inverse Heterogeneity model (IVhet) using MetaXL software was used to estimate country, regional and sub-regional pooled estimates of HIV testing uptake among sexually active unmarried young men in sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, multivariable binary logistic regression was conducted to examine the factors associated with HIV testing uptake among unmarried young men. RESULTS The overall pooled prevalence estimate of HIV testing uptake among sexually active unmarried young men in sub-Saharan Africa was 33.0% (95% CI: 21-45, I2 = 99%, p <0.001). There was variation in the prevalence across countries ranging from 7% (95% CI: 5-9) in Guinea to 77% (95% CI: 74-80) in Cameroon. Central Africa had the highest prevalence of HIV testing among unmarried young men, at 47% (95% CI:0-100) while West Africa had the lowest prevalence at 11% (95% CI:2-23). Results further show that young men aged 15-19 (aOR = 0.59, 95% CI 0.52-0.66) were less likely to test for HIV. Young men who spent 8 to 12 years in school (aOR = 3.26 95% CI 2.21-4.79) or 13 years and above (aOR = 3.56 95% CI 2.35-5.37) had increased odds of undertaking an HIV test. CONCLUSION The prevalence of HIV testing among sexually active unmarried young men remains low in sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, the results suggest that health policymakers should consider re-evaluating the current HIV prevention policies and programmes with the view of redesigning the present HIV testing campaigns to enhance the uptake among young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Musonda
- Department of Population Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Million Phiri
- Department of Population Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Demography and Population Studies Programme, Schools of Public Health and Social Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Liness Shasha
- Department of Population Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Chiti Bwalya
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation (MGIC), Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Shuko Musemangezhi
- Bill and Joyce Cummings Institute of Global Health, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Chester Kalinda
- Bill and Joyce Cummings Institute of Global Health, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
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18
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Ostermann J, Njau B, Hobbie AM, Mtuy TB, Masnick M, Brown DS, Mühlbacher AC, Thielman NM. Divergent preferences for enhanced HIV testing options among high-risk populations in northern Tanzania: a short report. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1270-1278. [PMID: 36063533 PMCID: PMC9985668 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2119471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
To achieve the UNAIDS target of diagnosing 95% of all persons living with HIV, enhanced HIV testing services with greater attractional value need to be developed and implemented. We conducted a discrete choice experiment (DCE) to quantify preferences for enhanced HIV testing features across two high-risk populations in the Kilimanjaro Region in northern Tanzania. We designed and fielded a survey with 12 choice tasks to systematically recruited female barworkers and male mountain porters. Key enhanced features included: testing availability on every day of the week, an oral test, integration of a general health check or an examination for sexually transmitted infections (STI) with HIV testing, and provider-assisted confidential partner notification in the event of a positive HIV test result. Across 300 barworkers and 440 porters surveyed, mixed logit analyses of 17,760 choices indicated strong preferences for everyday testing availability, health checks, and STI examinations. Most participants were averse to oral testing and confidential partner notification by providers. Substantial preference heterogeneity was observed within each risk group. Enhancing HIV testing services to include options for everyday testing, general health checks, and STI examinations may increase the appeal of HIV testing offers to high-risk populations.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02714140.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Ostermann
- Department of Health Services Policy & Management,
University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC,USA
- South Carolina Smart State Center for Healthcare Quality,
University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC,
USA
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke
University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Bernard Njau
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Amy M. Hobbie
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke
University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Tara B. Mtuy
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School
of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Derek S. Brown
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke
University, Durham, NC, USA
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St.
Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Axel C. Mühlbacher
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke
University, Durham, NC, USA
- Institut Gesundheitsökonomie und Medizinmanagement,
Hochschule Neubrandenburg, Neubrandenburg, Germany
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University,
Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nathan M. Thielman
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC,
USA
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke
University, Durham, NC, USA
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19
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McDaniel CC, Lai TC, Chou C. HIV testing and risk behaviors associated with depression in the United States. Prev Med Rep 2023; 34:102247. [PMID: 37252066 PMCID: PMC10209704 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102247] [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: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the high correlation between depression and HIV infection rates, our objective was to assess national rates for HIV testing and HIV risk behaviors among U.S. adults stratified by self-reports of depression. We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the 2018-2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). We included respondents aged 18 years old and above with self-reported depression status (Sample size = 1,228,405). The primary outcomes included HIV testing and HIV-related risk behaviors. For respondents with prior HIV testing experience, we estimated the duration since the last HIV test. We applied a multivariable logistic regression model to analyze the correlation between depression and HIV testing or risk behaviors. The results showed people with depression had 51% higher odds of receiving HIV testing [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.48, 1.55] and 51% higher odds of involvement in HIV risk behaviors [AOR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.44, 1.58] after adjusting for covariates. Various socio-demographics and healthcare access variables were significantly associated with HIV testing and HIV risk behaviors. When comparing the average time from the last HIV test, people with depression had a shorter period compared to those without depression [Median time in months: 27.1 ± 0.45 vs. 29.3 ± 0.34]. Even though people with depression had higher rates of HIV testing, they still experienced long time periods (median = 2 + years) between HIV testing, which exceeded the recommended annual HIV testing for people at high risk from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassidi C. McDaniel
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, 4306 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Tim C. Lai
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, 4306 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Chiahung Chou
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, 4306 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2 Yude Road, North District, Taichung City 40447, Taiwan
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20
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Soe P, Johnston LG, Makuza JD, Karim ME. The association between HIV self-test awareness and recent HIV testing uptake in the male population in Gambia: data analysis from 2019-2020 demographic and health survey. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:360. [PMID: 37237265 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08254-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Gambian Ministry of Health is supportive of HIV self-testing (HIVST) and HIVST initiatives are being piloted as an additional strategy to increase HIV testing for individuals not currently reached by existing services, particularly men. This study aimed to determine awareness of HIVST among Gambian men, and whether prior awareness of HIVST is associated with recent HIV testing uptake. METHODS We used men's cross-sectional data from the 2019-2020 Gambian Demographic and Health Survey. We employed design-adjusted multivariable logistic regression to examine the association between HIVST awareness and recent HIV testing. Propensity-score weighting was conducted as sensitivity analyses. RESULTS Of 3,308 Gambian men included in the study, 11% (372) were aware of HIVST and 16% (450) received HIV testing in the last 12 months. In the design-adjusted multivariable analysis, men who were aware of HIVST had 1.76 times (95% confidence interval: 1.26-2.45) the odds of having an HIV test in the last 12 months, compared to those who were not aware of HIVST. Sensitivity analyses revealed similar findings. CONCLUSION Awareness of HIVST may help increase the uptake of HIV testing among men in Gambia. This finding highlights HIVST awareness-raising activities to be an important intervention for nationwide HIVST program planning and implementation in Gambia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyumar Soe
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Lisa G Johnston
- LGJ Consultants, Inc., Valencia, Spain
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Loiusiana, Spain
| | - Jean Damascene Makuza
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Clinical Prevention Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mohammad Ehsanul Karim
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
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21
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Simooya C, Silumbwe A, Halwindi H, Zulu JM, Nzala S. Exploring communication and implementation challenges of the HIV/AIDS policy change to test-and-treat-all in selected public health facilities in Lusaka District, Zambia. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:51. [PMID: 37173757 PMCID: PMC10176665 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00430-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization has promoted a shift towards the test-and-treat-all strategy to accelerate the elimination of HIV/AIDS. Zambia was one of the early African countries to adopt this strategy as the policy change was officially announced on national television by the republican president on 15th August 2017. This study explored the communication and implementation challenges of the HIV/AIDS policy change to test-and-treat-all in selected public health facilities in Lusaka District, Zambia. METHODS A qualitative case study design was employed with a purposeful sample of policy makers, international partners, National AIDS Council representatives, health facility managers, and frontline health providers in selected tertiary, secondary and primary health facilities in the Lusaka District, Zambia. Thematic data analysis was performed using NVivo 12 Pro software. RESULTS In total, 22 key informant interviews and 3 focus group discussions were conducted. The government relied on formal and informal channels to communicate the test-and-treat-all policy change to health providers. Whilst HIV policy changes were reflected in the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework, there was little awareness of this policy by the frontline providers. The use of informal communication channels such as verbal and text instructions affected health providers' implementation of the test-and-treat-all. Electronic and print media were ineffective in communicating the test-and-treat-all policy change to some sections of the public. Top-down stakeholder engagement, limited health worker training, and poor financing negatively affected the implementation of the test-and-treat-all policy change. Acceptability of the test-and-treat-all policy change was shaped by positive provider perceptions of its benefits, limited sense of policy ownership, and resistance by the non-treatment-ready patients. Furthermore, unintended consequences of the test-and-treat-all policy change on human resources for health and facility infrastructure were reported. CONCLUSION Effective test-and-treat-all policy change communication is vital for successful policy implementation as it enhances interpretation and adoption among health providers and patients. There is a need to enhance collaboration among policy makers, implementers and the public to develop and apply communication strategies that facilitate the adoption of the test-and-treat-all policy changes to sustain gains in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance Simooya
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Adam Silumbwe
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, 901 87, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Hikabasa Halwindi
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Joseph Mumba Zulu
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Selestine Nzala
- Department of Medical Education, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
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22
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Simushi P, Kalunga MN, Mwakyoma T, Mwewa M, Muchaili L, Hazeemba N, Mulenga C, Mwewa P, Chiyenu KOR, Kachimba J, Choonga P, Shibemba A, Hamooya BM, Zambwe M, Chipimo PJ, Kasonka L. Verification of dried blood spot as a sample type for HIV viral load and early infant diagnosis on Hologic Panther in Zambia. BMC Res Notes 2023; 16:75. [PMID: 37165436 PMCID: PMC10172060 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-023-06344-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Zambia has embarked on improving the diagnostic capacity by setting up high throughput and accurate machines in the testing process and introduction of dried blood spot (DBS) as a sample type. This was a cross sectional study to verify dried blood spot as a sample type for HIV viral load and early infant diagnosis (EID) on Hologic Panther platform and Evaluate the analytical performance (precision, linearity and measurement of uncertainty) of the Hologic Panther. RESULTS The specificity and sensitivity of EID performance of Aptima Quant Dx assay on Hologic panther machine against the gold standard machine COBAS Taqman (CAP/CTM) was 100% with an overall agreement of 100%. The quantitative HIV Viral Load (VL) accuracy had a positive correlation of (0.96) obtained against the gold standard (plasma samples) run on COBAS4800 platform. Analytical performance of the Hologic panther machine was evaluated; Precision low positive repeatability 3.50154 and within lab 2.268915 at mean 2.88 concentration and precision high positive repeatability 1.116955 and within lab 2.010677 at mean 5.09 concentration were obtained confirming manufacturers claims. Uncertainty of measurement for this study was found to be ± 71 copies/ml. Linearity studies were determined and all points were within acceptable limits. We therefore recommend DBS as a sample type alternative to plasma for the estimation of HIV-1 viral load and EID diagnosis on the Hologic panther machine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Precious Simushi
- Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Laboratory, Livingstone, Zambia
| | | | - Tuku Mwakyoma
- Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Laboratory, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Mulenga Mwewa
- Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Laboratory, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Lweendo Muchaili
- Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Laboratory, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Nchimunya Hazeemba
- Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Laboratory, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Chileshe Mulenga
- Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Laboratory, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Patience Mwewa
- Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Laboratory, Livingstone, Zambia
| | | | - John Kachimba
- Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Laboratory, Livingstone, Zambia
| | | | | | | | - Mowa Zambwe
- Benefits Department, Workers Compensation Fund Control Board, Lusaka, Zambia
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23
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Chen JW, Shlobin NA, Bhebhe A, Zhao S, Shannon CN, Sichizya K, Bonfield CM, Reynolds RA. Local conceptions of the role of folate in neural tube defects in Zambia. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2023; 31:268-274. [PMID: 36681960 DOI: 10.3171/2022.11.peds22217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In sub-Saharan Africa, neural tube defects (NTDs) are the second most common birth defect, occurring eight times more frequently than in the US. The objective of this study was to assess baseline Zambian caregiver understanding of folate and NTDs and the effectiveness of an NTD prevention educational program. METHODS This prospective survey-based study included Zambian caregivers of children born with NTDs who completed pre- and post-educational program surveys between January 2020 and January 2021. The verbal survey was administered in English or local Zambian dialects. The 1-hour educational program administered by local Zambian research nurses sought to facilitate understanding of the direct relationship between prenatal folate supplementation and NTDs. RESULTS Sixty-one eligible caregivers with a median age of 20 (IQR 24-29) years completed the survey. Participants were predominantly from regions outside of Lusaka Province (68%, 41/60) rather than the capital city, Lusaka (32%, 19/60). Most had received prenatal care (91%, 57/61), and 80% (47/59) reported folate use in pregnancy. Of the mothers who took folate during pregnancy, 24% (11/45) reported use within the first 4 weeks after conception, while 76% (34/45) started thereafter. Myelomeningocele was the most common NTD (74%, 32/43), followed by meningocele (14%, 6/43). Prior to the educational program, 52% (29/56) of caregivers reported that NTDs were caused by a vitamin deficiency, which improved to 98% (55/56) after the program (p < 0.001). Furthermore, only 54% (33/61) of caregivers believed that folate should be taken before conception on the baseline survey evaluation, which improved to 95% (58/61, p < 0.001) after the program. All survey participants (58/58) found the educational session helpful. CONCLUSIONS This study found that a high proportion of Zambian caregivers had received prenatal care and even had taken folate during pregnancy, but none had taken it prior to pregnancy. An educational program effectively improved understanding about the role and timing of perinatal folate administration in NTD prevention. This result also emphasizes the need for folate fortification and folate education for not only mothers but also primary care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W Chen
- 1Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
- 2Surgical Outcomes Center for Kids, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Nathan A Shlobin
- 3Northwestern University School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Arnold Bhebhe
- 4Department of Neurosurgery, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Shilin Zhao
- 2Surgical Outcomes Center for Kids, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee
- 5Vanderbilt Center for Quantitative Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Chevis N Shannon
- 6Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
| | | | - Christopher M Bonfield
- 2Surgical Outcomes Center for Kids, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee
- Departments of8Neurological Surgery and
- 9Orthopedic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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24
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Men's Endorsement of Intimate Partner Violence and HIV Testing Behavior Across Sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:454-461. [PMID: 36048291 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03780-9] [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: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Despite an upward trend in HIV testing across sub-Saharan Africa, men continue to lag women in the use of HIV testing services. Inequitable gender attitudes held by some men may be implicated in their suboptimal HIV testing behaviors. We sought to ascertain the relationship between men?s endorsement of intimate partner violence (IPV), which is one manifestation of inequitable gender attitudes, and their lifetime and recent HIV testing, using nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey data from 23 sub-Saharan African countries. In a pooled analysis, we found that a unit increase in the IPV index scale is associated with 8% lower odds of lifetime HIV testing, and 6% lower odds of recent HIV testing. The strength of this relationship, however, varied across countries and regions. Our findings suggest that efforts to increase men?s HIV testing in the region should address the inequitable gender attitudes underpinning men?s endorsement of IPV, but that it is important to consider contextual variation.
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Tsega NT, Belay DG, Asratie MH, Gashaw M, Endalew M, Aragaw FM. Individual and community-level determinants and spatial distribution of prenatal HIV test uptake in Ethiopia: Spatial and multilevel analysis. Front Public Health 2023; 11:962539. [PMID: 36895690 PMCID: PMC9989264 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.962539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and counseling services are routine prenatal care services for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Although the prevalence of HIV infection is high among women, evidence suggests that the uptake of HIV testing during prenatal services in Ethiopia is scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate individual- and community-level determinants and the spatial distribution of prenatal HIV test uptake in Ethiopia based on the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. Methods Data were accessed from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. A total weighted sample of 4,152 women aged 15-49 years who gave birth in the 2 years preceding the survey were included in the analysis. The Bernoulli model was fitted using SaTScan V.9.6 to identify cold-spot areas and ArcGIS V.10.7 to explore the spatial distribution of prenatal HIV test uptake. Stata version 14 software was used to extract, clean, and analyze the data. A multilevel logistic regression model was used to identify the individual- and community-level determinants of prenatal HIV test uptake. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to declare significant determinants of prenatal HIV test uptake. Results The prevalence of HIV test uptake was 34.66% (95% CI: 33.23, 36.13%). The spatial analysis revealed that the distribution of prenatal HIV test uptake was significantly varied across the country. In the multilevel analysis, the following individual and community-level determinants were significantly associated with prenatal HIV test uptake: women who attained primary education (AOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.15, 1.87) and secondary and higher education (AOR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.32, 3.11); women from middle (AOR = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.91) and rich household wealth status (AOR = 1.81; 95% CI: 1.36, 2.41); those who had health facility visits in the last 12 months (AOR = 2.17; 95% CI: 1.77, 2.66); women who had higher (AOR = 2,07; 95% CI: 1.66, 2.59) and comprehensive HIV-related knowledge (AOR = 2.90; 95% CI: 2.09, 4.04); women who had moderate (AOR = 1.61; 95% CI: 1.27, 2.04), lower (AOR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.15, 1.99), and no stigma attitudes (AOR = 2.67; 95% CI: 1.43, 4.99); those who had awareness of MTCT (AOR = 1.83; 95% CI: 1.50, 2.24); those from rural areas (AOR = 0.31; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.61); high community level of education for women (AOR =1.61; 95% CI: 1.04, 2.52); and those living in large central (AOR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.91) and small peripheral areas (AOR = 0.22; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.60). Conclusion In Ethiopia, prenatal HIV test uptake had significant spatial variations across the country. Both individual- and community-level determinants were found to be associated with prenatal HIV test uptake in Ethiopia. Hence, the impact of these determinants should be recognized while developing strategies in "cold spot" areas of prenatal HIV test uptake to enhance prenatal HIV test uptake in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuhamin Tesfa Tsega
- Department of Women's and Family Health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Gashaneh Belay
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Melaku Hunie Asratie
- Department of Women's and Family Health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Moges Gashaw
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mastewal Endalew
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Fantu Mamo Aragaw
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Kajubi P, Parkes-Ratanshi R, Twimukye A, Bwanika Naggirinya A, Nabaggala MS, Kiragga A, Castelnuovo B, King R. Perceptions and Attitudes Toward an Interactive Voice Response Tool (Call for Life Uganda) Providing Adherence Support and Health Information to HIV-Positive Ugandans: Qualitative Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e36829. [PMID: 36472904 PMCID: PMC9768667 DOI: 10.2196/36829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The continuing decline in AIDS-related deaths in the African region is largely driven by the steady scale-up of antiretroviral therapy. However, there are challenges to retaining people living with HIV on treatment. Call for Life Uganda (CFLU) is an interactive voice response tool using simple analogue phones. CFLU supports patients with daily pill reminders, preappointment reminders, symptom reporting and management, and weekly health promotion tips. Mobile health tools are being increasingly used in resource-limited settings but are often adopted without rigorous evaluation. OBJECTIVE This qualitative study conducted at 12 months after enrollment assessed patients' experiences, perceptions, and attitudes regarding CLFU. METHODS We conducted a qualitative substudy within an open-label randomized controlled trial titled "Improving outcomes in HIV patients using mobile phone based interactive software support." Data were collected through 6 focus group discussions with participants sampled based on proportion of calls responded to-<25%, between 25% and 50%, and >50%-conducted at the Infectious Diseases Institute, Mulago, and the Kasangati Health Centre IV. NVivo (version 11; QSR International) was used in the management of the data and in the coding of the emerging themes. The data were then analyzed using content thematic analysis. RESULTS There was consensus across all groups that they had more positive than negative experiences with the CFLU system. Participants who responded to >50% of the calls reported more frequent use of the specific elements of the CFLU tool and, consequently, experienced more benefits from the system than those who responded to calls less frequently. Irrespective of calls responded to, participants identified pill reminders as the most important aspect in improved quality of life, followed by health promotion tips. The most common challenge faced was difficulty with the secret personal identification number. CONCLUSIONS Findings showed participants' appreciation, high willingness, and interest in the intervention, CFLU, that demonstrated great perceived potential to improve their access to health care; adherence to treatment; health awareness; and, consequently, quality of life. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02953080; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02953080.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe Kajubi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rosalind Parkes-Ratanshi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Adelline Twimukye
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agnes Bwanika Naggirinya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Maria Sarah Nabaggala
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agnes Kiragga
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rachel King
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Institute for Global Health Sciences,, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Mwanza J, Kawonga M, Gray GE, Doherty T, Mutale W. Evolution of prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV policy in Zambia: Application of the policy triangle to understand the roles of actors, process and power. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:2764-2778. [PMID: 34842043 PMCID: PMC10267421 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.2007975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The Prevention of Mother-to-child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV program in Zambia has undergone several policy iterations over the past 10 years. This qualitative study aimed to contribute towards addressing this knowledge gap by analysing the evolution and actors' influence during the policy process using the Walt and Gilson policy triangle as our evaluation framework. Document review and key informant interviews with policy makers were undertaken to identify the contextual factors that had shaped the PMTCT policy evolution in Zambia. Overall, the study revealed that over the past decade, at least five PMTCT policy changes have occurred, averaging three years per policy with extensive overlap between policies. This resulted in more than two policies being implemented at a given time. Pressure from the international community and scientific evidence were the main drivers of policy change in Zambia, with local actors being mainly reactive. Among international agencies, UNICEF and WHO were the key actors who had driven the policy changes as they had the power and resources. The rapid changes, negatively impacted the health system, disrupted service delivery, which was unprepared to effectively and efficiently shift from one policy to another.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Mwanza
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mary Kawonga
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Community Health, Charlotte Maxeke, Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Johannesburg
| | - Glenda E. Gray
- Office of the President, South Africa Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tanya Doherty
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town South Africa
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- School of Public Health,University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
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Dirisu O, Adediran M, Omole A, Akinola A, Ebenso B, Shoyemi E, Eluwa G, Tun W, Adebajo S. The Syndemic of Substance Use, High-Risk Sexual Behavior, and Violence: A Qualitative Exploration of the Intersections and Implications for HIV/STI Prevention Among Key Populations in Lagos, Nigeria. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.822566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundKey populations (KP) are defined groups with an increased risk of HIV due to specific higher risk behaviours. KP who use substances engage in risky behaviors that may play a co-active role in HIV transmission and acquisition in Nigeria. This qualitative study explored the 'syndemics' of substance use, sexual risk behavior, violence and HIV infection among KP who use substances.MethodsNineteen sexually active men who have sex with men [MSM] and 18 female sex workers [FSW] aged 16 years and older who use substances were purposively selected to participate in sixteen in-depth interviews and two focus groups. We utilized a syndemic framework to explore the interaction of socio-economic factors, substance use and high-risk sexual practices. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, organized in NVIVO 11 and analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsMajority (95%) were non-injection substance users (primarily alcohol and marijuana); a few KP also used cocaine and heroin. Sixty percent of participants were between 16-24 years. Substance use utilities and trajectories were heavily influenced by KP social networks. They used substances as a coping strategy for both physical and emotional issues as well as to enhance sex work and sexual activities. Key HIV/STI risk drivers in the settings of substance use during sexual intercourse that emerged from this study include multiple sexual partnerships, condom-less sex, transactional sex, intergenerational sex, double penetration, rimming, and sexual violence. Poverty and adverse socio-economic conditions were identified as drivers of high-risk sexual practices as higher sexual risks attracted higher financial rewards.Conclusions and RecommendationsFindings indicate that KP were more inclined to engage in high-risk sexual practices after the use of substances, potentially increasing HIV risk. The syndemic of substance use, high-risk sexual behavior, adverse socio-economic situations, and violence intersect to limit HIV prevention efforts among KP. The behavioural disinhibition effects of substances as well as social and structural drivers should be considered in the design of targeted KP HIV prevention programs. HIV intervention programs in Nigeria may yield better outcomes if they address the nexus of sexual risk behavior and substance use as well as knowledge and appropriate use of HIV prophylaxis.
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Sharma SK, Vishwakarma D. Socioeconomic inequalities in the HIV testing during antenatal care: evidence from Indian demographic health survey, 2015–16. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:979. [PMID: 35570285 PMCID: PMC9107761 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13392-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
In India, there is currently a lack of data on socioeconomic inequalities in HIV testing on a national scale; thus, understanding socioeconomic inequalities in response to expanded HIV testing is critical for assessing and ensuring equity of HIV programmes in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals. The specific objective of the study was to determine the factor associated with HIV testing during antenatal care and assess the socio-economic inequalities in HIV testing during antenatal care (ANC) among Indian women aged 15–49 years with a live birth in the two years preceding the survey.
Methods
The results drawn from the state module of women data file of fourth round of National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4, 2015–16), considering HIV testing during antenatal care among women aged 15–49 who gave live birth in the two years preceding the survey and received the result of HIV test as a matter of fact. Method, such as, descriptive statistics, binary ogistic regression, concentration index were used in the analysis.
Results
The findings of the study show that HIV testing during antenatal care was low (30%) among women in India. Our findings reveal that there were significant inequalities exist in HIV testing during ANC between richer and poorer quintile of women. Education, place of residence, comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS, and regular exposure of mass media were substantially contributing to socioeconomic inequality in HIV testing during ANC among women in India.
Conclusions
The socioeconomic inequities in HIV testing during pregnancy should be monitored and addressed in order to ensure an equitable distribution of the benefits specially among children and accomplishments of HIV programs in India.
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Deynu M, Agyemang K, Anokye N. Factors Associated with HIV Testing among Reproductive Women Aged 15-49 Years in the Gambia: Analysis of the 2019-2020 Gambian Demographic and Health Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:4860. [PMID: 35457730 PMCID: PMC9031325 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Voluntary counselling and testing for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) has always been one of the key policy interventions in the management and control of HIV/AIDS transmission. However, the prevalence of HIV testing among reproductive women in the Gambia remains low despite near universal information about HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in the Gambia. Understanding factors influencing HIV testing uptake provides empirical data for the development of targeted evidenced-based strategies aimed at enhancing HIV testing uptake. Therefore, this study examined the factors associated with HIV testing among reproductive women aged 15−49 years in the Gambia. Data on weighted sample of 11,865 women from the 2019−2020 Gambia Demographic and Health Survey were analyzed in this study. Chi square, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted and analysis conducted through Complex Samples Analysis in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Level of significance was set at p < 0.05 and 95% CI. Further analysis was conducted to determine the variability in HIV testing among women stratified by rural and urban centers. Prevalence of HIV testing among reproductive women was 42.1% (95% CI = 40.1−44.2%) in the Gambia. Women aged 20−24 years and 25−29 years (aOR = 3.10, 95% CI = 2.51−3.83) and (aOR = 4.52, 95% CI = 3.61−5.54) were more likely to test for HIV than those aged 15−19 years, respectively. Married women (aOR = 5.90, 95% CI = 4.84−7.02) were more likely to test for HIV compared to those who were not in any union. Respondents with higher education in urban centers (aOR = 2.65, 95% CI = 2.08−3.86) were likely to test for HIV compared to those in rural areas. HIV testing in the Gambia among reproductive women is low. Age, marital status, wealth index, place of residence, educational level, recent sexual activity, previous history of risky sexual behaviors, and history of an STI were associated with HIV testing. Health interventions targeted at increasing HIV testing uptake should factor in these.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nana Anokye
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, London UB8 3PH, UK; (M.D.); (K.A.)
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Alem AZ, Teshale AB, Liyew AM, Tesema GA, Tesema AK, Yeshaw Y. Determinants of HIV voluntary counseling and testing: a multilevel modelling of the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:7. [PMID: 34998389 PMCID: PMC8742444 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-021-01590-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) counseling and testing services are vital to reduce the spread of HIV infection, and to create an opportunity for early treatment and reduction of HIV/AIDS-related mortality. However, only 12 sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries reached the first 90% target (90% of people living with HIV to know their status). Hence, this study aimed to investigate the determinants of HIV counseling and testing among reproductive-age women in Ethiopia. METHODS Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS 2016) data was used to identify the determinants of HIV counseling and testing among reproductive-age women in Ethiopia. A weighted sample of 14,599 reproductive age women was included in the study. A multilevel binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify the determinants of HIV counseling and testing. The odds' ratio with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) and the corresponding P-value ≤ 0.05 was employed to declare the statistically significant variables. RESULTS In this study, both individual and community-level variables were significantly associated with Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) uptake among women. Women aged 25-34 years (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 2.29, 95% CI 2.05, 2.56), aged ≥ 35 years (AOR 1.55, 95% CI 1.38, 1.75), attending primary education (AOR 1.68, 95% CI 1.51, 1.88), secondary education (AOR 3.07, 95% CI 2.64, 3.58), and higher education (AOR 5.15, 95% CI 4.17, 6.36), women with medium household wealth (AOR 1.56, 95% CI 1.32, 1.84), richer (AOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.58, 2.24), and richest wealth index (AOR 2.37, 95% CI 1.91, 2.94), having comprehensive knowledge (AOR 1.21, 95% CI 1.06, 1.37), ever married (AOR 3.87, 95% CI 3.46, 4.32), having sexual risky behavior (AOR 2.09, 95% CI 1.69, 2.49), women from communities with high HIV knowledge (AOR 2.03, 95% CI 1.68, 2.45), women from communities with high literacy level (AOR 1.16, 95% CI 1.05, 1.51) and women from communities with high wealth quintile (AOR 1.20, 95% CI 1.03,1.57) had higher odds of VCT uptake. However, those women having stigma (AOR 0.81, 95% CI 0.74, 0.92) had reduced odds of VCT uptake. CONCLUSION This study revealed that not only individual level factors but also community level factors determine the status of HIV voluntary counseling and testing. Hence, strengthening both individual and community based interventions are crucial to increase the women HIV counseling and testing practice in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adugnaw Zeleke Alem
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Achamyeleh Birhanu Teshale
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Alemneh Mekuriaw Liyew
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Getayeneh Antehunegn Tesema
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Ayenew Kassie Tesema
- Department of Health Education and Behavioral Science, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yigizie Yeshaw
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Dawkins B, Renwick C, Ensor T, Shinkins B, Jayne D, Meads D. What factors affect patients' ability to access healthcare? An overview of systematic reviews. Trop Med Int Health 2021; 26:1177-1188. [PMID: 34219346 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This overview aims to synthesise global evidence on factors affecting healthcare access, and variations across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) vs. high-income countries (HICs); to develop understanding of where barriers to healthcare access lie, and in what context, to inform tailored policies aimed at improving access to healthcare for all who need it. METHODS An overview of systematic reviews guided by a published protocol was conducted. Medline, Embase, Global Health and Cochrane Systematic Reviews databases were searched for published articles. Additional searches were conducted on the Gates Foundation, WHO and World Bank websites. Study characteristics and findings (barriers and facilitators to healthcare access) were documented and summarised. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using an adapted version of the AMSTAR 2 tool. RESULTS Fifty-eight articles were included, 23 presenting findings from LMICs and 35 presenting findings from HICs. While many barriers to healthcare access occur in HICs as well as LMICs, the way they are experienced is quite different. In HICs, there is a much greater emphasis on patient experience; as compared to the physical absence of care in LMICs. CONCLUSIONS As countries move towards universal healthcare access, evaluation methods that account for health system and wider cultural factors that impact capacity to provide care, healthcare finance systems and the socio-cultural environment of the setting are required. Consequently, methods employed in HICs may not be appropriate in LMICs due to the stark differences in these areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryony Dawkins
- Academic Unit of Health Economics, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Tim Ensor
- Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Bethany Shinkins
- Academic Unit of Health Economics, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - David Jayne
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - David Meads
- Academic Unit of Health Economics, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Astawesegn FH, Stulz V, Agho KE, Mannan H, Conroy E, Ogbo FA. Prenatal HIV Test Uptake and Its Associated Factors for Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV in East Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18105289. [PMID: 34065689 PMCID: PMC8157019 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Identifying the socioeconomic and structural issues that act as enablers and/or barriers to HIV testing services is critical in combatting HIV/AIDS amongst mothers and children in Africa. In this study, we used a weighted sample of 46,645 women aged 15–49 who gave birth in the two years preceding the survey from the recent DHS dataset of ten East African countries. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate the factors associated with prenatal HIV test uptake in East Africa. The overall prenatal HIV test uptake for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV was 80.8% (95% CI: 74.5–78.9%) in East Africa, with highest in Rwanda (97.9%, 95% CI: 97.2–98.3%) and lowest in Comoros (17.0%, 95% CI: 13.9–20.7%). Common factors associated with prenatal HIV test service uptake were higher maternal education level (AOR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.10–1.50 for primary education and AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.53–2.51 for secondary or higher education), higher partner education level (AOR = 1.24; 95% CI: 1.06–1.45 for primary education and AOR = 1.56; 95% CI: 1.26–1.94 for secondary or higher school), women from higher household wealth index (AOR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.11–1.50 for middle wealth index; AOR = 1.57; 95% CL: 1.17–2.11 for rich wealth index), improved maternal exposure to the media, and increased awareness about MTCT of HIV. However, residents living in rural communities (AOR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.51–0.85) and travelling long distances to the health facility (AOR = 0.8; 95% CI: 0.69–0.91) were associated with non-use of prenatal HIV test service in East African countries. In each East African country, factors associated with prenatal HIV test uptake for PMTCT varied. In conclusion, the pooled prenatal HIV test uptake for PMTCT of HIV was low in East Africa compared to the global target. Scaling up interventions to improve enablers whilst addressing barriers to the use of prenatal HIV test services are essential to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in East African countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feleke Hailemichael Astawesegn
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Campbelltown Campus, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (H.M.); (E.C.); (F.A.O.)
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa P.O. Box 1560, Ethiopia
- Correspondence:
| | - Virginia Stulz
- School of Nursing and Midwifery Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Research, Western Sydney University, Kingswood, NSW 2340, Australia;
| | - Kingsley E. Agho
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia;
- African Vision Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban 3629, South Africa
| | - Haider Mannan
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Campbelltown Campus, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (H.M.); (E.C.); (F.A.O.)
| | - Elizabeth Conroy
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Campbelltown Campus, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (H.M.); (E.C.); (F.A.O.)
| | - Felix Akpojene Ogbo
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Campbelltown Campus, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (H.M.); (E.C.); (F.A.O.)
- General Practice Unit, Prescot Specialist Medical Centre, Welfare Quarters, Makurdi 972261, Nigeria
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Alem AZ, Liyew AM, Guadie HA. Spatial pattern and associated factors of HIV testing and counselling among youths (15-24 years) in Ethiopia. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:644. [PMID: 33794831 PMCID: PMC8017837 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10677-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV testing and counseling (HTC) services are key for HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support. Although the prevalence of HIV infection is high among adolescents and young adults, evidence suggests the utilization of HTC service among youth is very low in Ethiopia. Identifying factors and the geographic variation of HTC uptake is important to prioritize and design targeted prevention programs to increase its utilization and reduce HIV infection in hot spot areas. METHODS Data from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey were used to analyze 10,781 youth aged 15-24 years. The spatial analysis was performed in ArcGIS 10.1. The Bernoulli model was used by applying Kulldorff methods using the SaTScan software to analyze the purely spatial clusters of HTC uptake. A multilevel logistic regression analysis was used to identify the associated individual and community-level factors of HTC uptake and estimate between community variance. All models were fitted in Stata version 14.0 and finally, the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported. RESULTS In this study, the spatial patterns of HTC uptake were found to be non-random (Global Moran's I = 0.074, p value< 0.001). Forty-seven primary clusters were identified that were located in the entire Somali region with a relative likelihood of 1.50 and the Log-Likelihood Ratio of 135.57. Youth who were ever married (AOR = 4.65; 95% CI; 4.05, 5.34), those attended higher education (AOR = 3.97; 95% CI; 3.10,5.08), those from richest household (AOR = 1.86; 95% CI; 1.44, 2.39), aged 20-24 years (AOR = 2.25; 95% CI; 2.02,2.51), having compressive HIV related knowledge (AOR = 2.05; 95% CI; 1.75,2.41), and exposed to media (AOR = 1.38; 95% CI; 1.22,1.57) were positive association with HTC uptake. However, being male (AOR = 0.81; 95% CI; 0.73,0.91) and having high HIV related stigma (AOR = 0.53; 95% CI; 0.42,0.67) were negatively associated with HTC uptake. At the community-level, youth from communities with a high percentage of educated (AOR = 1.45; 95% CI; 1.17,1.80) were more likely to utilize HTC compared with those from communities with low percentages of educated. CONCLUSION The current study indicated differences in HTC uptake in the country. Both individual and community-level factors affected HTC uptake in Ethiopia. Multifaceted intervention approaches that consider individual and community factors are required to improve HTC uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adugnaw Zeleke Alem
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Alemneh Mekuriaw Liyew
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Habtamu Alganeh Guadie
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
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Heri AB, Cavallaro FL, Ahmed N, Musheke MM, Matsui M. Changes over time in HIV testing and counselling uptake and associated factors among youth in Zambia: a cross-sectional analysis of demographic and health surveys from 2007 to 2018. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:456. [PMID: 33676482 PMCID: PMC7937241 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10472-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Zambia is among the countries with the highest HIV burden and where youth remain disproportionally affected. Access to HIV testing and counselling (HTC) is a crucial step to ensure the reduction of HIV transmission. This study examines the changes that occurred between 2007 and 2018 in access to HTC, inequities in testing uptake, and determinants of HTC uptake among youth. METHODS We carried out repeated cross-sectional analyses using three Zambian Demographic and Health Surveys (2007, 2013-14, and 2018). We calculated the percentage of women and men ages 15-24 years old who were tested for HIV in the last 12 months. We analysed inequity in HTC coverage using indicators of absolute inequality. We performed bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to identify predictors of HTC uptake in the last 12 months. RESULTS HIV testing uptake increased between 2007 and 2018, from 45 to 92% among pregnant women, 10 to 58% among non-pregnant women, and from 10 to 49% among men. By 2018 roughly 60% of youth tested in the past 12 months used a government health centre. Mobile clinics were the second most common source reaching up to 32% among adolescent boys by 2018. Multivariate analysis conducted among men and non-pregnant women showed higher odds of testing among 20-24 year-olds than adolescents (aOR = 1.55 [95%CI:1.30-1.84], among men; and aOR = 1.74 [1.40-2.15] among women). Among men, being circumcised (aOR = 1.57 [1.32-1.88]) and in a union (aOR = 2.44 [1.83-3.25]) were associated with increased odds of testing. For women greater odds of testing were associated with higher levels of education (aOR = 6.97 [2.82-17.19]). Education-based inequity was considerably widened among women than men by 2018. CONCLUSION HTC uptake among Zambian youth improved considerably by 2018 and reached 65 and 49% tested in the last 12 months for women and men, respectively. However, achieving the goal of 95% envisioned by 2020 will require sustaining the success gained through government health centres, and scaling up the community-led approaches that have proven acceptable and effective in reaching young men and adolescent girls who are less easy to reach through the government facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimé Bitakuya Heri
- Department of Global Health, Nagasaki University School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Sakamoto 1-12-4, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Francesca L Cavallaro
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford St, Holborn, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Nurilign Ahmed
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Maurice Mubuyaeta Musheke
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Plot # 34620, Off Alick Nkhata Road, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mitsuaki Matsui
- Department of Global Health, Nagasaki University School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Sakamoto 1-12-4, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
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Khan MNM, Sarwar G, Irfan SD, Gourab G, Rana AKMM, Khan SI. Understanding the Barriers of HIV Testing Services for Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL QUARTERLY OF COMMUNITY HEALTH EDUCATION 2021; 42:272684X21995672. [PMID: 33657941 DOI: 10.1177/0272684x21995672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Coverage of HIV testing services (HTS) is generally low among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (hijra) in Bangladesh, thus impeding the national goal of attaining the 90-90-90 target. In this context, this article delineates HTS uptake barriers among these populations. This qualitative study entailed 30 in-depth interviews, six focus groups and seven key-informant interviews with purposively selected MSM and hijra, alongside service providers. Participants cited individual and interpersonal barriers such as low risk perception and misconceptions about HIV testing, programmatic barriers such as knowledge gaps among peer service providers, as well as community and structural barriers such as the criminalization and stigmatization of male-to-male sex. Considering these contexts, it is essential for stakeholders to improve the HTS modality using multipronged approaches to address the multifaceted barriers of HTS uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Golam Sarwar
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Samira Dishti Irfan
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Gorkey Gourab
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - A K M Masud Rana
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sharful Islam Khan
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Adetoro D, Khamofu H, Badru T, Markson J, Adedokun O, Sandah-Abubakar N, Dafa I, Chen M, Chiegil R, Torpey K. Correlates of uptake of HIV testing among children and young adolescents in Akwa-Ibom state, Nigeria: a secondary data analysis of the Akwa-Ibom aids indicator survey, 2017. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:33. [PMID: 33435898 PMCID: PMC7802279 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02495-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In order to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030, there is a need to significantly reduce the rate of new infection among children and young adolescents. Identifying the correlates of testing behaviour is necessary to improve HIV testing campaigns by refining messages that target individuals in this age group. The objective of this study was to determine the correlates of HIV testing among children and young adolescents in Akwa-Ibom, Nigeria. Methods The outcome was a secondary data analysis of the 2017 Akwa-Ibom AIDS Indicator Survey. Data of 4037 children and young adolescents aged 0–14 years was assessed in this study. Analysis was done using STATA version 16. Chi-squared test and logistic regression models were used to measure association and its strength between uptake of HIV testing and some independent variables (child/caregiver’s age, sex, educational status, child’s location, caregiver’s knowledge of HIV and caregiver ever tested for HIV) at 5% significance level. Results Result showed that only 14.2% of the children and young adolescents have been tested for HIV. Previous history of blood transfusion (AOR = 5.33, 95%C.I = 2.60–10.92, P = < 0.001), caregiver’s level of education (AOR = 2.67, 95%C.I = 1.30–5.51, P = 0.008) and caregiver ever tested for HIV (AOR = 8.31, 95%C.I = 5.67–12.19, P = < 0.001) were significantly associated with uptake of HIV testing. Conclusion This study concludes that a large proportion of children and young adolescents in Akwa-Ibom state have never been tested for HIV. There is a need for HIV testing interventions to be targeted towards this age groups and their parents/guardian. Addressing the knowledge gap amongst caregivers especially in rural areas is crucial towards improving the effectiveness of HIV testing interventions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-021-02495-5.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ibrahim Dafa
- Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Kwasi Torpey
- University of Ghana School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana.
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Acharya K, Thapa R, Bhattarai N, Bam K, Shrestha B. Availability and readiness to provide sexually transmitted infections and HIV testing and counselling services in Nepal: evidence from comprehensive health facility survey. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e040918. [PMID: 33323441 PMCID: PMC7745329 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We assessed the availability and readiness of health facilities to provide sexually transmitted infections (STI) and HIV testing and counselling (HTC) services in Nepal. DESIGN This was a cross-sectional study. SETTING We used data from the most recent nationally representative Nepal Health Facility Survey (NHFS) 2015. A total of 963 health facilities were surveyed with 97% response rate. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome of this study was to assess the availability and readiness of health facilities to provide STI and HTC services using the WHO Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) manual. RESULTS Nearly three-fourths (73.8%) and less than one-tenth (5.9%) of health facilities reported providing STI and HTC services, respectively. The mean readiness score of STI and HTC services was 26.2% and 68.9%, respectively. The readiness scores varied significantly according to the managing authority (private vs public) for both STI and HTC services. Interestingly, health facilities with external supervision had better service readiness scores for STI services that were almost four points higher than compared with those facilities with no external supervision. Regarding HTC services, service readiness was lower at private hospitals (32.9 points lower) compared to government hospitals. Unlike STI services, the readiness of facilities to provide HTC services was higher (4.8 point higher) at facilities which performed quality assurance. CONCLUSION The facility readiness for HTC service is higher than that for STI services. There are persistent gaps in staff, guidelines and medicine and commodities across both services. Government of Nepal should focus on ensuring constant supervision and quality assurance, as these were among the determining factors for facility readiness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rajshree Thapa
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Navaraj Bhattarai
- Nepal Public Health Research and Development Center, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Kiran Bam
- Public Health Professional, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Nangendo J, Katahoire AR, Armstrong-Hough M, Kabami J, Obeng-Amoako GO, Muwema M, Semitala FC, Karamagi CA, Wanyenze RK, Kamya MR, Kalyango JN. Prevalence, associated factors and perspectives of HIV testing among men in Uganda. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237402. [PMID: 32764820 PMCID: PMC7413494 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite overall increase in HIV testing, more men than women remain untested. In 2018, 92% of Ugandan women but only 67% of men had tested for HIV. Understanding men's needs and concerns for testing could guide delivery of HIV testing services (HTS) to them. We assessed the prevalence of testing, associated factors and men's perspectives on HIV testing in urban and peri-urban communities in Central Uganda. METHODS AND FINDINGS We conducted a parallel-convergent mixed-methods study among men in Kampala and Mpigi districts from August to September 2018. Using two-stage sampling, we selected 1340 men from Mpigi. We administered a structured questionnaire to collect data on HIV testing history, socio-demographics, self-reported HIV risk-related behaviors, barriers and facilitators to HIV testing. We also conducted 10 focus-groups with men from both districts to learn their perspectives on HIV testing. We used modified Poisson regression to assess factors associated with HIV testing and inductive thematic analysis to identify barriers and facilitators. Though 84.0% of men reported having tested for HIV, only 65.7% had tested in the past 12-months despite nearly all (96.7%) engaging in at least one HIV risk-related behavior. Men were more likely to have tested if aged 25-49 years, Catholic, with secondary or higher education and circumcised. Being married was associated with ever-testing while being widowed or divorced was associated with testing in past 12-months. Men who engaged in HIV risk-related behavior were less likely to have tested in the past 12-months. Qualitative findings showed that men varied in their perspectives about the need for testing, access to HTS and were uncertain of HIV testing and its outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Recent HIV testing among men remains low. Modifying testing strategies to attract men in all age groups could improve testing uptake, reduce gender disparity and initiate risk reduction interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Anne R. Katahoire
- Child Health and Development Centre, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mari Armstrong-Hough
- Departments of Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Kabami
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Mercy Muwema
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C. Semitala
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles A. Karamagi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rhoda K. Wanyenze
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan N. Kalyango
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Bwalya C, Simwinga M, Hensen B, Gwanu L, Hang’andu A, Mulubwa C, Phiri M, Hayes R, Fidler S, Mwinga A, Ayles H, Bond V. Social response to the delivery of HIV self-testing in households: experiences from four Zambian HPTN 071 (PopART) urban communities. AIDS Res Ther 2020; 17:32. [PMID: 32527261 PMCID: PMC7288417 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-020-00287-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Door-to-door distribution of HIV self-testing kits (HIVST) has the potential to increase uptake of HIV testing services (HTS). However, very few studies have explored the social response to and implications of door-to-door including secondary distribution of HIVST on household relations and the ability of individuals to self-test with or without supervision within households. Methods A CRT of HIVST distribution was nested within the HPTN 071 (PopART) trial, in four Zambian communities randomised to receive the PopART intervention. The nested HIVST trial aimed to increase knowledge of HIV status at population level. Between February 1 and April 30, 2017, 66 zones (clusters) within these four communities were randomly allocated to either the PopART standard of care door-to-door HTS (33 clusters) or PopART standard of care door-to-door HTS plus oral HIVST (33 clusters). In clusters randomised to HIVST, trained Community HIV care provider (CHiPs) visited households and offered individuals aged ≥ 16 and eligible for an offer of HTS the choice of HIV testing using HIVST or routine door-to-door HTS (finger-prick RDT). To document participants’ experiences with HIVST, Interviews (n = 40), observations (n = 22) and group discussions (n = 91) with household members and CHiPs were conducted. Data were coded using Atlas.ti 7 and analysed thematically. Results The usage and storage of HIVST kits was facilitated by familiarity with and trust in CHiPs, the novelty of HIVST, and demonstrations and supervision provided by CHiPs. Door-to-door distribution of HIVST kits was appreciated for being novel, convenient, private, empowering, autonomous and easy-to-use. Literacy and age influenced accurate usage of HIVST kits. The novelty of using oral fluids to test for HIV raised questions, some anxiety and doubts about the accuracy of HIVST. Although HIVST protected participants from experiencing clinic-based stigma, it did not address self-stigma. Within households, HIVST usually strengthened relationships but, amongst couples, there were a few reports of social harms. Conclusion Door-to-door distribution of HIVST as a choice for how to HIV test is appreciated at community level and provides an important testing option in the sub-Saharan context. However, it should be accompanied by counselling to manage social harms and by supporting those testing HIV-positive to link to care.
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Readiness of female sex workers for HIV testing and its associated factors in Shire Endaselassie town, Tigray, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. J Public Health (Oxf) 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-019-01045-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Mwaba K, Mannell J, Burgess R, Sherr L. Uptake of HIV testing among 15-19-year-old adolescents in Zambia. AIDS Care 2020; 32:183-192. [PMID: 32169008 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1739214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent HIV testing rates remain low with many unaware of their status. We explored factors associated with HIV testing uptake among adolescents aged 15-19 years using data from the Zambian Demographic Health Survey 2013-2014. The sample consisted of 7030 adolescents of which 42% reported ever testing for HIV. We found that as the age of a respondent increased so did their odds of testing (aOR = 1.26; 1.21-1.32); females had higher odds of testing than males (aOR = 1.719; 1.53-1.92); those with secondary or higher education (aOR = 3.64; 2.23-5.96) and those with primary education (aOR=1.97; 1.21-3.19) had higher odds of testing than those with no education; those who were formerly married or living with a partner (aOR = 4.99; 2.32-10.75) and those who were currently married or living with a partner (aOR = 4.76; 3.65-6.21) had higher odds of testing than those who were never married or lived with a partner; as the age at first sexual intercourse increased so did the odds of testing (aOR = 1.07; 1.06-1.08); and as HIV knowledge increased so did the odds of testing (aOR = 1.13; 1.06-1.19). The data points to population level social determinants that may be targeted to increase testing among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasonde Mwaba
- Department of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Rochelle Burgess
- Department of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Department of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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Ong’wen P, Samba BO, Moghadassi M, Okoko N, Bukusi EA, Cohen CR, Wolf HT. Chain Peer Referral Approach for HIV Testing Among Adolescents in Kisumu County, Kenya. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:484-490. [PMID: 31267295 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02560-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
New HIV infections among adolescents continues to be a large public health burden in sub-Saharan Africa, with few adolescents accessing HIV testing and counseling (HTC) services. We evaluated the effect of a peer referral program among adolescents in Kisumu county, Kenya in accessing HTC. Female adolescents aged 15 to 19 years were recruited from three health clinics in Kisumu County. They, in turn, recruited their peers for HTC by handing out referral cards. Referrals would then recruit their peers and this peer-referral repeated for approximately 5 months. The 252 female index seeds showed a relatively higher-risk profile for HIV compared to the 792 referral participants. The referral system yielded an increased proportion of first-time adolescent testers from 13.1% among index seeds to 42.7% among the second wave of referrals. However, the peer referral system ultimately did not increase the absolute number of adolescents Queryaccessing HTC. Future strategies should consider these findings to better target those with undiagnosed HIV infection.
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Mugabe D, Bhatt N, Carlucci JG, Gudo ES, Gong W, Sidat M, Moon TD. Self-reported non-receipt of HIV test results: A silent barrier to HIV epidemic control in Mozambique. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224102. [PMID: 31639164 PMCID: PMC6804976 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction People living with HIV (PLHIV) and who are aware of their HIV status can access and benefit from antiretroviral therapy (ART) with subsequent individual and public health benefits; however, many PLHIV are unaware of their HIV status. We assessed the magnitude and determinants of self-reported non-receipt of HIV test results in adults aged 15–59 years old in Mozambique. Methods We performed a secondary analysis of data from the 2015 Mozambique Immunization indicators, Malaria and HIV/AIDS (IMASIDA 2015). Eligible adults (15–59 years) from each selected household were interviewed and data on sociodemographic characteristics, HIV knowledge, attitudes and behaviors, and HIV testing history were collected. Multivariable logistic regression assessed factors associated with self-reported non-receipt of HIV test results. Population representative estimates were calculated. Results 13,028 (90.8%) of 14,343 eligible participants were interviewed. A total of 6,654 (51.1%) respondents had previously been tested for HIV and were included in the analysis. Of these, 308 (4.6%; 95% CI: 3.70–5.77) self-reported not having received HIV test results. In the multivariable analysis, previous sexually transmitted infection (aOR: 2.76; 95% CI: 1.44–5.31), HIV stigmatizing attitudes (aOR: 1.96; 95% CI: 1.14–3.37), and lack of decision-making power towards health care seeking (aOR: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.39–4.52) were associated with non-receipt of HIV test results. Whereas, secondary or higher education (aOR: 0.25; 95% CI: 0.12–0.54), higher HIV knowledge (aOR: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.26–0.86), and age between 30–34 and 35–39 years old (aOR 0.47; 95% CI: 0.28–0.80; and aOR: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.27–0.90, respectively), were associated with receipt of HIV test results. Conclusions In this nationally representative survey, self-reported non-receipt of HIV test results was high and of public health relevance. These findings suggest adaptation of HIV counseling and testing programs emphasizing individualized approaches that target the youngest, least educated and the poorest individuals, especially those living in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didier Mugabe
- National Institute of Health of Mozambique, Marracuene, Maputo, Mozambique
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Nilesh Bhatt
- National Institute of Health of Mozambique, Marracuene, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - James G. Carlucci
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Eduardo S. Gudo
- National Institute of Health of Mozambique, Marracuene, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Wu Gong
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Mohsin Sidat
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Troy D. Moon
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
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Point-of-Care HIV Viral Load Testing: an Essential Tool for a Sustainable Global HIV/AIDS Response. Clin Microbiol Rev 2019; 32:32/3/e00097-18. [PMID: 31092508 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00097-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The global public health community has set ambitious treatment targets to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic. With the notable absence of a cure, the goal of HIV treatment is to achieve sustained suppression of an HIV viral load, which allows for immunological recovery and reduces the risk of onward HIV transmission. Monitoring HIV viral load in people living with HIV is therefore central to maintaining effective individual antiretroviral therapy as well as monitoring progress toward achieving population targets for viral suppression. The capacity for laboratory-based HIV viral load testing has increased rapidly in low- and middle-income countries, but implementation of universal viral load monitoring is still hindered by several barriers and delays. New devices for point-of-care HIV viral load testing may be used near patients to improve HIV management by reducing the turnaround time for clinical test results. The implementation of near-patient testing using these new and emerging technologies may be an essential tool for ensuring a sustainable response that will ultimately enable an end to the HIV/AIDS pandemic. In this report, we review the current and emerging technology, the evidence for decentralized viral load monitoring by non-laboratory health care workers, and the additional considerations for expanding point-of-care HIV viral load testing.
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Toward Improving Accessibility of Point-of-Care Diagnostic Services for Maternal and Child Health in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. POINT OF CARE 2019; 18:17-25. [PMID: 30886544 PMCID: PMC6407818 DOI: 10.1097/poc.0000000000000180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Point-of-care (POC) testing can improve health care provision in settings with limited access to health care services. Access to POC diagnostic services has shown potential to alleviate some diagnostic challenges and delays associated with laboratory-based methods in low- and middle-income countries. Improving accessibility to POC testing (POCT) services during antenatal and perinatal care is among the global health priorities to improve maternal and child health. This review provides insights on the availability of POC testing designed for diagnosing HIV, syphilis, and malaria in pregnancy to improve maternal and child health. In addition, factors such as accessibility of POC testing, training of health work force, and the efficiency of POC testing services delivery in low- and middle-income countries are discussed. A framework to help increase access to POC diagnostic services and improve maternal and child health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries is proposed.
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Ejigu Y, Tadesse B. HIV testing during pregnancy for prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Ethiopia. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201886. [PMID: 30092104 PMCID: PMC6084970 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV testing during pregnancy provides an entry point to prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and to access treatment for HIV positive women. The study aimed to assess the uptake of HIV testing during pregnancy and associated factors among Ethiopian women. METHODS We analyzed the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey dataset. Women who gave birth within one year prior to the survey were included in the analysis. Uptake of HIV testing during pregnancy is defined as receiving HIV testing service during pregnancy and/or at the time of delivery and knew the test results. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated by using step-wise backward logistic regression analyses to identify factors associated with HIV testing during pregnancy. RESULTS A total of 2114 women who were pregnant in the last one year prior to the survey were included in the analysis. Of these, only 35.1% were tested for HIV and received the test results during pregnancy. About one third of women who had antenatal care follow-up missed the opportunity to be tested for HIV. Compared to women who had no formal education, those who had primary level education (AOR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.12-2.15), secondary level education (AOR = 2.56 95%CI: 1.36-3.82), or higher education (AOR = 3.95, 95%CI: 1.31-11.95) were more likely to be tested for HIV during pregnancy. Similarly, having awareness about mother-to-child transmission of HIV (AOR = 2.03, 95%CI: 1.48-2.78), and living in urban areas (AOR = 3.30, 95%CI: 1.39-7.85) were positively and independently associated with uptake of HIV during pregnancy. Women who have stigmatizing attitude towards HIV positive people were less likely to be tested for HIV (AOR = 0.57, 95%CI: 0.40-0.79). CONCLUSION Uptake of HIV testing during pregnancy is low. Missed opportunity among women who had antenatal care visits was very high. Integrating HIV testing with antenatal care services, improving HIV testing service quality and access are essential to increase uptake of HIV testing during pregnancy and reach the goal of eliminating MTCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohannes Ejigu
- Department of Health Economics, Management and Policy, College of Health Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia.,International Center for Health Monitoring and Evaluation (ICHME), Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Biniyam Tadesse
- Department of Health Economics, Management and Policy, College of Health Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia.,International Center for Health Monitoring and Evaluation (ICHME), Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Valère MK, Nelly K, Mefo N, Pascal F. Mother to Child Transmission of HIV after Option B+ in Low Income Environment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.4236/ojog.2018.812118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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