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Hlongwa M, Basera W, Hlongwana K, Lombard C, Laubscher R, Duma S, Cheyip M, Bradshaw D, Nicol E. Linkage to HIV care and early retention in HIV care among men in the 'universal test-and-treat' era in a high HIV-burdened district, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:384. [PMID: 38561736 PMCID: PMC10985849 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10736-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the numerous efforts and initiatives, males with HIV are still less likely than women to receive HIV treatment. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, men are tested, linked, and retained in HIV care at lower rates than women, and South Africa is no exception. This is despite the introduction of the universal test-and-treat (UTT) prevention strategy anticipated to improve the uptake of HIV services. The aim of this study was to investigate linkage to and retention in care rates of an HIV-positive cohort of men in a high HIV prevalence rural district in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. METHODS From January 2018 to July 2019, we conducted an observational cohort study in 18 primary health care institutions in the uThukela district. Patient-level survey and clinical data were collected at baseline, 4-months and 12-months, using isiZulu and English REDCap-based questionnaires. We verified data through TIER.Net, Rapid mortality survey (RMS), and the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) databases. Data were analyzed using STATA version 15.1, with confidence intervals and p-value of ≤0.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS The study sample consisted of 343 male participants diagnosed with HIV and who reside in uThukela District. The median age was 33 years (interquartile range (IQR): 29-40), and more than half (56%; n = 193) were aged 18-34 years. Almost all participants (99.7%; n = 342) were Black African, with 84.5% (n = 290) being in a romantic relationship. The majority of participants (85%; n = 292) were linked to care within three months of follow-up. Short-term retention in care (≤ 12 months) was 46% (n = 132) among men who were linked to care within three months. CONCLUSION While the implementation of the UTT strategy has had positive influence on improving linkage to care, men's access of HIV treatment remains inconsistent and may require additional innovative strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.
- School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
- Public Health, Societies and Belonging, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Wisdom Basera
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Khumbulani Hlongwana
- School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Cancer & Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Research Unit, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Carl Lombard
- South African Medical Research Council, Biostatistics, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ria Laubscher
- South African Medical Research Council, Biostatistics, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sinegugu Duma
- School of Nursing and Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mireille Cheyip
- Division of Global HIV&TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Debbie Bradshaw
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Edward Nicol
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Peerbhay N, Munsamy DR, Dlamini HP, Langa F, Paken J. The use of tele-audiology in ototoxicity monitoring: A scoping review. J Telemed Telecare 2024; 30:475-496. [PMID: 34989631 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x211068277] [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] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Due to the growing burden of disease in South Africa, encompassing conditions such as tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus, and cancer, the holistic management of affected patients incorporating ototoxicity monitoring is a necessity. However, ototoxicity monitoring in developing countries may be limited due to a lack of resources and inadequate healthcare facilities. Subsequently, the use of tele-audiology may be a revolutionary technique with the potential to provide audiology services to under-served populations with limited access. METHODS The study aimed to describe the use of tele-audiology services in ototoxicity monitoring through a scoping review of English peer-reviewed articles from June 2009 to June 2020. Seventeen articles were purposively selected from the following databases: PubMed, Science Direct, Taylor and Francis Online, WorldCat, and Google Scholar. Data was extracted as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses diagram and results were analyzed using deductive thematic analysis. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION While a minority of the studies indicated that the cost of implementation and network connectivity within a South African context pose as barriers, most researchers reported that tele-audiology provides a reliable, time-efficient, cost-effective, and easily accessible alternative for ototoxicity monitoring. Hardware including the WAHTS, KUDUwave, and OtoID, along with software such as the TabSINT, Otocalc, uHear, and the hearTest, have proven to be useful for ototoxicity monitoring. A need for further investigations regarding the feasibility of tele-audiology implementation in South Africa is evident. Despite this, it provides audiologists with an opportunity to offer contact-less services during COVID-19, thus, confirming its versatility as an augmentative method for ototoxicity monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazeera Peerbhay
- Discipline of Audiology, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Danielle R Munsamy
- Discipline of Audiology, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Hombisa P Dlamini
- Discipline of Audiology, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Fisokuhle Langa
- Discipline of Audiology, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Jessica Paken
- Discipline of Audiology, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Epidemiology of Tuberculosis Among People Living With HIV in the African Cohort Study From 2013 to 2021. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:359-369. [PMID: 36728618 PMCID: PMC9988234 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence and incidence of tuberculosis (TB) is high among people living with HIV (PLWH) but is often underdiagnosed in HIV programmatic settings. SETTING President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)-supported research sites in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Nigeria. METHODS All patients underwent molecular testing at entry into a longitudinal cohort of PLWH and annually thereafter. We assessed the prevalence and incidence of TB and identified clinical and demographic factors associated with prevalent and incident TB using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models. RESULTS From 21 January, 2013, to 1 December 2021, 3171 PLWH were enrolled with a TB prevalence of 3% (n = 93). Of the cases with prevalent TB, 66% (n = 61) were bacteriologically confirmed. The adjusted odds of prevalent TB were significantly higher among those with higher educational attainment, PLWH for 1-5 years since their HIV diagnosis, those who were underweight, and those with CD4 counts <200 cells/mm 3 . The overall TB incidence rate was 600 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI: 481-748). We found that shorter time since HIV diagnosis, being underweight, taking antiretroviral therapy <6 months, and having a CD4 count <200 cells/mm 3 were significantly associated with incident TB. PLWH on dolutegravir/lamivudine/tenofovir had a 78% lower risk of incident TB compared with those on tenofovir/lamivudine/efavirenz (hazard ratio: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.08-0.63). CONCLUSION The prevalence and incidence of TB was notably high in this cohort sourced from PEPFAR clinics. Aggressive efforts to enhance HIV diagnosis and optimize treatment in programmatic settings are warranted to reduce the risk of HIV-TB co-occurrence in this cohort.
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Nyatela A, Nqakala S, Singh L, Johnson T, Gumede S. Self-care can be an alternative to expand access to universal health care: What policy makers, governments and implementers can consider for South Africa. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:1073246. [PMID: 36545492 PMCID: PMC9760858 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.1073246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As a result of collaboration amongst the various decision-makers in the field of healthcare, there has been an improvement in the access to healthcare and living conditions globally. Nonetheless, poorer communities continue to benefit the least from public investment. To bridge the gap, self-care can be a viable alternative as it allows individuals and communities to reduce their dependence on government healthcare solutions. Barriers to self-care do exist. Some of these are cost effectiveness, usability of self-care instruments, differentiated strategies and linkage to care. In identifying these obstacles, it is also worthwhile to investigate how they can be mitigated. To encourage sustained self-care in the HIV continuum, contextual factors as well as the manner in which individuals and communities engage with self-care must be considered. In South Africa, multiple variables come into play: literacy levels, cultural influences, socio-economic conditions and access to resources are some of these. Evidence demonstrates how self-care can be promoted by various stakeholders re-strategising to tweak and in some cases totally change existing structures. This paper explores some of the transformations, like at a governmental level where the supply of HIV self-testing kits is increased, at a production level where instructions for use are reformatting, in communities where sports programmes fulfil the dual purpose of developing sport skills and providing HIV education concurrently, and at an individual level where greater awareness invites greater participation in self-care. While self-care is a promising proposal, it is not a replacement for traditional health-care practices, but a complementary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athini Nyatela
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa,Correspondence: Athini Nyatela
| | - Sizwe Nqakala
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Leanne Singh
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Taylor Johnson
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Siphamandla Gumede
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa,Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Abeid R, Mergenthaler C, Muzuka V, Goodluck A, Nkwabi T, Bigio J, Vasquez N A, Pande T, Haraka F, Creswell J, Rahman T, Straetemans M. Increasing TB/HIV Case Notification through an Active Case-Finding Approach among Rural and Mining Communities in Northwest Tanzania. J Trop Med 2022; 2022:4716151. [PMID: 35432549 PMCID: PMC9007682 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4716151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
While Tanzania is among the high TB burden countries to reach the WHO's End TB 2030 milestones, 41% of the people estimated to have had TB in 2020 were not diagnosed and notified. As part of the response to close the TB treatment coverage gap, SHDEPHA+ Kahama conducted a TB REACH active case-finding (ACF) intervention among rural and mining communities in Northwest Tanzania to increase TB/HIV case notification from July 2017 to June 2020. The intervention successfully linked marginalized mining communities with integrated TB/HIV screening, diagnostic, and referral services, screening 144,707 people for TB of whom 24,200 were tested for TB and 4,478 were tested for HIV, diagnosing 1,499 people with TB and 1,273 people with HIV (including at least 154 people with TB/HIV coinfection). The intervention revealed that community-based ACF can ensure high rates of linkage to care among hard-to-reach populations for TB. Providing integrated TB and HIV screening and diagnostic services during evening hours (Moonlight Events) in and around mining settlements can yield a large number of people with undiagnosed TB and HIV. For TB, this is true not only amongst miners but also FSW living in the same communities, who appear to be at similar or equally high risk of infection. Local NGOs can help to bridge the TB treatment coverage gap and to improve TB and HIV health outcomes by linking these marginalized groups with public sector services. Capturing the number of referrals arriving at CTCs is an important next step to identify how well the integrated TB/HIV outreach services operate and how they can be strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Abeid
- SHDEPHA+ Kahama, Shinyanga, Tanzania
| | | | - V. Muzuka
- SHDEPHA+ Kahama, Shinyanga, Tanzania
| | | | - T. Nkwabi
- SHDEPHA+ Kahama, Shinyanga, Tanzania
| | - J. Bigio
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Aguilera Vasquez N
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - T. Pande
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - F. Haraka
- Ifakara Health Institute, TB Interventions and Clinical Trials Department, Ifakara, Tanzania
- Elizabeth Glaser Pedatric AIDS Foundation, Dar esa Salaam, Tanzania
| | - J. Creswell
- Innovations & Grants Team, Stop TB Partnership, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - T. Rahman
- Innovations & Grants Team, Stop TB Partnership, Geneva, Switzerland
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Spooner E, Reddy S, Ntoyanto S, Sakadavan Y, Reddy T, Mahomed S, Mlisana K, Dlamini M, Daniels B, Luthuli N, Ngomane N, Kiepiela P, Coutsoudis A. TB testing in HIV-positive patients prior to antiretroviral treatment. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2022; 26:224-231. [PMID: 35197162 PMCID: PMC8886959 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.21.0195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: TB diagnosis in patients with HIV is challenging due to the lower sensitivities across tests. Molecular tests are preferred and the Xpert® MTB/RIF assay has limitations in lower-income settings. We evaluated the performance of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and the lipoarabinomannan (LAM) test in HIV-positive, ART-naïve clinic patients.METHODS: A total of 783 eligible patients were enrolled; three spot sputum samples of 646 patients were tested using TB-LAMP, Xpert, smear microscopy and culture, while 649 patients had TB-LAM testing. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive predictive values were estimated with 95% confidence intervals.RESULTS: Sensitivities for smear microscopy, TB-LAMP and Xpert were respectively 50%, 63% and 74% compared to culture, with specificities of respectively 99.2%, 98.5% and 97.5%. An additional eight were positive on TB-LAM alone. Seventy TB patients (9%) were detected using standard-of-care testing, an additional 27 (3%) were detected using study testing. Treatment was initiated in 57/70 (81%) clinic patients, but only in 56% (57/97) of all those with positive TB tests; 4/8 multidrug-resistant samples were detected using Xpert.CONCLUSION: TB diagnostics continue to miss cases in this high-burden setting. TB-LAMP was more sensitive than smear microscopy, and if followed by culture and drug susceptibility testing as required, can diagnose TB in HIV-positive patients. TB-LAM is a useful add-in test and both tests at the point-of-care would maximise yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Spooner
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa, HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - S Reddy
- South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - S Ntoyanto
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Y Sakadavan
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - T Reddy
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - S Mahomed
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa, Medical Microbiology Department, National Health Laboratory Services, Durban, South Africa, Centre for AIDS Programme Research in South Africa, Durban, South Africa
| | - K Mlisana
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa, Medical Microbiology Department, National Health Laboratory Services, Durban, South Africa
| | - M Dlamini
- Medical Microbiology Department, National Health Laboratory Services, Durban, South Africa
| | - B Daniels
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - N Luthuli
- EThekwini Health Unit, EThekwini Municipality, Durban, South Africa
| | - N Ngomane
- Occupational Health, Durban, South Africa
| | - P Kiepiela
- South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - A Coutsoudis
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Sonko I, Chung MH, Hou WH, Chen WT, Chang PC. Predictors of HIV testing among youth aged 15-24 years in The Gambia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263720. [PMID: 35180256 PMCID: PMC8856544 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, an estimated 38.0 million people lived with the human immunodeficiency virus in 2019, and 3.4 million young people aged 15~24 years were living with HIV. Sub-Saharan Africa carries a significant HIV burden with West and Central Africa most affected with HIV. Among the young people living with HIV in West and Central Africa, an estimated 810,000 were aged 15~24 years. This study aimed to assess predictors that influence the uptake of HIV testing among youth aged 15~24 years in The Gambia. METHODS The 2013 Gambia Demographic and Health Survey data for youth aged 15~24 years was used. The Andersen behavioral model of health service use guided this study. A cross-sectional study design was used on 6194 subjects, among which 4730 were female. The analysis employed Chi-squared tests and hierarchical logistic regression. RESULTS Less than one-quarter of the youth 1404 (22.6%) had ever been tested for HIV. Young people aged 20~24 years (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.98), who were females (aOR: 1.13), married youth (aOR: 3.89), with a primary (aOR: 1.23), secondary or higher education (aOR: 1.46), and who were from the Jola/Karoninka ethnic group (aOR: 1.81), had higher odds of having been tested for HIV. Those with adequate HIV knowledge and those who were sexually active and had aged at first sex ≥15 years (aOR: 3.99) and those <15 years (aOR: 3.96) were more likely to have been tested for HIV compared to those who never had sex. CONCLUSION This study underscores the low level of model testing on HIV testing among youth (15~24 years) in The Gambia. Using Anderson's Model of Health Service Utilization, the predisposing factors (socio-demographic and HIV knowledge) and the need-for-care factors (sexual risk behaviors) predict healthcare utilization services (HIV testing) in our study; however, only socio-demographic model explained most of the variance in HIV testing. The low effect of model testing could be related to the limited number of major variables selected for HIV knowledge and sexual risk behavior models. Thus, consideration for more variables is required for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismaila Sonko
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Min-Huey Chung
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Hsuan Hou
- Master Program in Long-Term Care, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Education, Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ti Chen
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Pi-Chen Chang
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Cassim N, Coetzee LM, Makuraj AL, Stevens WS, Glencross DK. Establishing the cost of Xpert MTB/RIF mobile testing in high-burden peri-mining communities in South Africa. Afr J Lab Med 2021; 10:1229. [PMID: 34917494 PMCID: PMC8661292 DOI: 10.4102/ajlm.v10i1.1229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, tuberculosis remains a major cause of mortality, with an estimated 1.3 million deaths per annum. The Xpert MTB/RIF assay is used as the initial diagnostic test in the tuberculosis diagnostic algorithm. To extend the national tuberculosis testing programme in South Africa, mobile units fitted with the GeneXpert equipment were introduced to high-burden peri-mining communities. Objective This study sought to assess the cost of mobile testing compared to traditional laboratory-based testing in a peri-mining community setting. Methods Actual cost data for mobile and laboratory-based Xpert MTB/RIF testing from 2018 were analysed using a bottom-up ingredients-based approach to establish the annual equivalent cost and the cost per result. Historical cost data were obtained from supplier quotations and the local enterprise resource planning system. Costs were obtained in rand and reported in United States dollars (USD). Results The mobile units performed 4866 tests with an overall cost per result of $49.16. Staffing accounted for 30.7% of this cost, while reagents and laboratory equipment accounted for 20.7% and 20.8%. The cost per result of traditional laboratory-based testing was $15.44 US dollars (USD). The cost for identifying a tuberculosis-positive result using mobile testing was $439.58 USD per case, compared to $164.95 USD with laboratory-based testing. Conclusion Mobile testing is substantially more expensive than traditional laboratory services but offers benefits for rapid tuberculosis case detection and same-day antiretroviral therapy initiation. Mobile tuberculosis testing should however be reserved for high-burden communities with limited access to laboratory testing where immediate intervention can benefit patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naseem Cassim
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,National Priority Programme, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lindi M Coetzee
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,National Priority Programme, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Abel L Makuraj
- National Priority Programme, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Wendy S Stevens
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,National Priority Programme, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Deborah K Glencross
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,National Priority Programme, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Matsimela K, Sande LA, Mostert C, Majam M, Phiri J, Zishiri V, Madondo C, Khama S, Chidarikire T, d'Elbée M, Hatzold K, Johnson C, Terris-Prestholt F, Meyer-Rath G. The cost and intermediary cost-effectiveness of oral HIV self-test kit distribution across 11 distribution models in South Africa. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2021-005019. [PMID: 34275873 PMCID: PMC8287621 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-005019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Countries around the world seek innovative ways of closing their remaining gaps towards the target of 95% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) knowing their status by 2030. Offering kits allowing HIV self-testing (HIVST) in private might help close these gaps. METHODS We analysed the cost, use and linkage to onward care of 11 HIVST kit distribution models alongside the Self-Testing AfRica Initiative's distribution of 2.2 million HIVST kits in South Africa in 2018/2019. Outcomes were based on telephonic surveys of 4% of recipients; costs on a combination of micro-costing, time-and-motion and expenditure analysis. Costs were calculated from the provider perspective in 2019 US$, as incremental costs in integrated and full costs in standalone models. RESULTS HIV positivity among kit recipients was 4%-23%, with most models achieving 5%-6%. Linkage to confirmatory testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation for those screening positive was 19%-78% and 2%-72% across models. Average costs per HIVST kit distributed varied between $4.87 (sex worker model) and $18.07 (mobile integration model), with differences largely driven by kit volumes. HIVST kit costs (at $2.88 per kit) and personnel costs were the largest cost items throughout. Average costs per outcome increased along the care cascade, with the sex worker network model being the most cost-effective model across metrics used (cost per kit distributed/recipient screening positive/confirmed positive/initiating ART). Cost per person confirmed positive for HIVST was higher than standard HIV testing. CONCLUSION HIV self-test distribution models in South Africa varied widely along four characteristics: distribution volume, HIV positivity, linkage to care and cost. Volume was highest in models that targeted public spaces with high footfall (flexible community, fixed point and transport hub distribution), followed by workplace models. Transport hub, workplace and sex worker models distributed kits in the least costly way. Distribution via index cases at facility as well as sex worker network distribution identified the highest number of PLHIV at lowest cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katleho Matsimela
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office (HE1RO), Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Linda Alinafe Sande
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK,Department of HIV/AIDS and TB, Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Cyprian Mostert
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mohammed Majam
- Ezintsha, Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Research Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jane Phiri
- Ezintsha, Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Research Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Vincent Zishiri
- Ezintsha, Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Research Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Stephen Khama
- Society for Family Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Thato Chidarikire
- HIV Prevention Programmes, National Department of Health, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Marc d'Elbée
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK
| | - Karin Hatzold
- Population Services International, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Cheryl Johnson
- HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fern Terris-Prestholt
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK,Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gesine Meyer-Rath
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office (HERO), Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa .,Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Nardell MF, Lee YS, Rousseau E, Julies R, Klaas P, Vundhla P, Butler L, Bassett IV, Mellins CA, Bekker LG, Katz IT. "You are not alone": a qualitative study to explore barriers to ART initiation and implications for a proposed community-based youth treatment club among young adults newly diagnosed with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Care 2021; 33:952-961. [PMID: 33345593 PMCID: PMC8215080 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1861179] [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: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In South Africa, despite universal antiretroviral therapy (ART) availability, 60% of persons living with HIV (PLWH) ages 15-24 are not on treatment. This qualitative study aimed to identify barriers to ART initiation and the implications for a proposed community-based Youth Treatment Club to improve ART initiation for young PLWH in limited-resource, high HIV-prevalence communities in Cape Town, South Africa. Recruiting participants at community testing sites from 2018 to 2019, we conducted semi-structured interviews, informed by Social Action Theory (SAT), with 20 young adults, ages 18- to 24-years-old, newly diagnosed with HIV, along with 10 healthcare providers. Through systematic qualitative analysis, we found that young PLWH face barriers to treatment initiation in three SAT domains: (1) stigmatizing social norms (social regulation processes); (2) challenges coping with a new diagnosis (self-regulation processes); and (3) anticipated stigma in the clinic environment (contextual factors). Participants shared that a proposed community-based Youth Treatment Club for newly diagnosed youth would be an acceptable strategy to promote ART initiation. They emphasized that it should include supportive peers, trained facilitator support for counseling and education, and a youth-friendly environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F. Nardell
- Connors Center for Women’s Health and Gender Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yeonsoo Sara Lee
- Division of Women’s Health, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elzette Rousseau
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Robin Julies
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Portia Klaas
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Prisca Vundhla
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Lisa Butler
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Ingrid V. Bassett
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Claude A. Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
- Governing Council, International AIDS Society, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ingrid T. Katz
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Women’s Health, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Global Health Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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11
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Zokufa N, Lebelo K, Hacking D, Tabo L, Runeyi P, Malabi N, Sibanda SB, Cassidy T, Makanda G, Norman B, Khuzani S, Furin J, Jonker C, Nkasana B, Scott V, Pfaff C. Community-based TB testing as an essential part of TB recovery plans in the COVID-19 era. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2021; 25:406-408. [PMID: 33977911 PMCID: PMC8091909 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.21.0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- N Zokufa
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - K Lebelo
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - D Hacking
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - L Tabo
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - P Runeyi
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - N Malabi
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - S B Sibanda
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - T Cassidy
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa, Division of Public Health Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - G Makanda
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - B Norman
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - S Khuzani
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - J Furin
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - C Jonker
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
| | - B Nkasana
- City of Cape Town, Department of Health, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - V Scott
- City of Cape Town, Department of Health, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - C Pfaff
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Khayelitsha, South Africa
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12
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Nakalega R, Mukiza N, Debem H, Kiwanuka G, Kakumba RM, Menge R, Kagimu IK, Nakaye C, Babirye JA, Kaganzi H, Lukyamuzi Z, Kizito S, Kuteesa CN, Mujugira A. Linkage to intensive adherence counselling among HIV-positive persons on ART with detectable viral load in Gomba district, rural Uganda. AIDS Res Ther 2021; 18:15. [PMID: 33879190 PMCID: PMC8059243 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-021-00349-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is a primary determinant of sustained viral suppression, HIV transmission risk, disease progression and death. The World Health Organization recommends that adherence support interventions be provided to people on ART, but implementation is suboptimal. We evaluated linkage to intensive adherence counselling (IAC) for persons on ART with detectable viral load (VL). METHODS Between January and December 2017, we conducted a retrospective chart review of HIV-positive persons on ART with detectable VL (> 1000 copies/ml), in Gomba district, rural Uganda. We abstracted records from eight HIV clinics; seven health center III's (facilities which provide basic preventive and curative care and are headed by clinical officers) and a health center IV (mini-hospital headed by a medical doctor). Linkage to IAC was defined as provision of IAC to ART clients with detectable VL within three months of receipt of results at the health facility. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate factors associated with linkage to IAC. RESULTS Of 4,100 HIV-positive persons on ART for at least 6 months, 411 (10%) had detectable VL. The median age was 32 years (interquartile range [IQR] 13-43) and 52% were female. The median duration on ART was 3.2 years (IQR 1.8-4.8). A total of 311 ART clients (81%) were linked to IAC. Receipt of ART at a Health Center level IV was associated with a two-fold higher odds of IAC linkage compared with Health Center level III (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.78; 95% CI 1.00-3.16; p = 0.01). Age, gender, marital status and ART duration were not related to IAC linkage. CONCLUSIONS Linkage to IAC was high among persons with detectable VL in rural Uganda, with greater odds of linkage at a higher-level health facility. Strategies to optimize IAC linkage at lower-level health facilities for persons with suboptimal ART adherence are needed.
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13
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Shangase N, Pence B, Lippman SA, Dufour MSK, Kabudula CW, Gómez-Olivé FX, Kahn K, Pettifor A. Built Environment and HIV Linkage to Care in Rural South Africa. INTERNATIONAL QUARTERLY OF COMMUNITY HEALTH EDUCATION 2021; 43:133-141. [PMID: 33818211 PMCID: PMC9684657 DOI: 10.1177/0272684x211006590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background We assessed built environment (residential density, landuse mix and
aesthetics) and HIV linkage to care (LTC) among 1,681 (18–49 years-old)
residents of 15 Mpumalanga villages, South Africa. Methods Multilevel models (linear-binomial) were used for the association between
built environment, measured using NEWS for Africa, and LTC from a clinical
database of 9 facilities (2015–2018). Additionally, we assessed
effect-measure modification by universal test-and-treat policy (UTT). Results We observed, a significant association in the adjusted 3-month probability of
LTC for residential density (risk difference (RD)%: 5.6, 95%CI: 1.2–10.1),
however, no association for land-use mix (RD%: 2.4, 95%CI: −0.4, 5.2) and
aesthetics (RD%: −1.2, 95%CI: −4.5–2.2). Among those diagnosed after UTT,
residents of high land-use villages were more likely to link-to-care than
those of low land-use villages at 12 months (RD%: 4.6, 95%CI: 1.1–8.1,
p < 0.04), however, not at 3 months (RD%: 3.0, 95%CI: −2.1–8.0,
p > 0.10). Conclusion Findings suggest, better built environment conditions (adequate
infrastructure, proximity to services etc.) help facilitate LTC. Moreover,
UTT appears to have a protective effect on LTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nosipho Shangase
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
| | - Brian Pence
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
| | - Sheri A Lippman
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States.,MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mi-Suk Kang Dufour
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Chodziwadziwa Whiteson Kabudula
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - F Xavier Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States.,MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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14
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Diress G, Ahmed M, Adane S, Linger M, Alemnew B. Barriers and Facilitators for HIV Testing Practice Among Ethiopian Women Aged 15-24 years: Analysis of the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2021; 12:963-970. [PMID: 33447085 PMCID: PMC7801903 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s280590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In developing countries, youth women are most at risk of HIV infection. Center for Disease Control recommends that people who participate in high-risk behaviors get tested for HIV at least annually. In 2016, the Ethiopian Ministry of Health set goals to identify 90% of the people living with HIV by 2030. But undiagnosed HIV infections are still high in the country. To alleviate the problem, it is vital to identify the factors that hinder HIV testing practice. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the facilitators and barriers of HIV testing practice among Ethiopian youth women. METHODS The analysis was done on 6401 women aged 15-24 years using data from the 2016 Ethiopia Demographic Health Survey (EDHS). The main outcome variable was self-reported HIV testing practice. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the facilitators and barriers of HIV testing practice. RESULTS In this study, 37.7% [95% CI: (33.6, 39.1)] of youth women were tested for HIV in their life. Being married (AOR=4.7; 95% CI: (3.67, 6.01)), divorced [AOR=6.2; 95% CI: (3.98-9.54)], having primary level of education [AOR=2.4;95% CI: (1.79-3.13)], and secondary level of education [AOR=4.0; 95% CI: (2.87-5.63)], being rich [AOR=2.3;95% CI: (1.39-3.91)] and being in the highest wealth index catagory [AOR=2.6;95% CI: (1.30-5.16)] increase the odds of HIV testing. However, lack of media acccess [AOR = 0.7; 95 CI %: (0.54-0.87)], lack of comprehensive HIV knowledge [AOR = 0.68; 65% CI: (0.53-0.86)] and having discriminatory attitude towards PLHIV[AOR=0.79;95% CI: (0.64-0.97)] decrease the odds of HIV testing. CONCLUSION The practice of HIV testing among youth populations was low as compared to national recommendations. Lack of media access, lack of comprehensive knowledge about HIV, and having discriminatory attitudes were the barriers to HIV testing practice. Marriage, secondary or higher education attainment, and high wealth index category were the facilitators for HIV testing. Improving HIV-related knowledge, improving media access, and minimizing discriminatory attitudes are strongly recommended to promote HIV testing practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gedefaw Diress
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Ahmed
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Seteamlak Adane
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Melese Linger
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Birhan Alemnew
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
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15
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Tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency viruses and TB/HIV co-infection in pregnant women: A meta-analysis. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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16
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DiAndreth L, Jarrett BA, Elf JL, Nishath T, Donville B, Heidari O, Cox S, Moreton J, Ramnath A, Lebina L, Variava E, Golub JE, Martinson NA. Secure Delivery of HIV-Related and Tuberculosis Laboratory Results to Patient Cell Phones: A Pilot Comparative Study. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:3511-3521. [PMID: 32415616 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02912-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
South Africa processes 5.1 million HIV CD4, viral load (VL), and tuberculosis (TB) tests annually. This pilot non-randomized trial in South Africa explored an intervention ("MatlaMobile") to deliver laboratory results via mobile phone. Adults completing CD4, VL, and/or TB laboratory tests were enrolled-either receiving results by returning to clinic (control, n = 174) or mobile phone (intervention, n = 226). Study staff instructed control participants to return within 6 days (standard-of-care). MatlaMobile instructed intervention participants with clinically actionable results requiring intervention or treatment change (i.e., < 200 CD4 cells per milliliter, ≥ 400 viral copies per milliliter, or TB positive) to return immediately. A greater proportion of intervention participants than controls saw their results within 7 days of enrollment (73% vs. 8.6%, p < 0.001). Among participants instructed to return, more intervention participants (20%, n = 14/70) returned than controls (8.6%, n = 15/174, p = 0.02). MatlaMobile demonstrated that patients can quickly receive and respond appropriately to digital delivery of health information.
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17
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Rapid point-of-care CD4 testing at mobile units and linkage to HIV care: an evaluation of community-based mobile HIV testing services in South Africa. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:528. [PMID: 32306930 PMCID: PMC7168973 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile HIV testing services (HTS) are effective at reaching undiagnosed people living with HIV. However, linkage to HIV care from mobile HTS is often poor, ranging from 10 to 60%. Point-of-care (POC) CD4 testing has shown to increase retention in health facilities, but little evidence exists about their use in mobile HTS. This study assessed the feasibility of POC CD4 test implementation and investigated linkage to HIV care among clients accepting a POC test at community-based mobile HTS. Methods This retrospective study used routinely collected data from clients who utilized community-based mobile HTS in the City of Cape Town Metropolitan district, South Africa between December 2014 and September 2016. A POC CD4 test was offered to all clients with an HIV positive diagnosis during this period, and a CD4 cell count was provided to clients accepting a POC CD4 test. Random effects logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with POC CD4 test uptake and self-reported linkage to care among clients accepting a POC test. Models were adjusted for sex, age, previous HIV test done, tuberculosis status and year of HIV diagnosis. Results One thousand three hundred twenty-five of Thirty-nine thousand seven hundred ninety clients utilizing mobile HTS tested HIV positive (3%). 51% (679/1325) accepted a POC test. The age group with the highest proportion accepting a POC test was 50+ years (60%). Females were less likely to accept a POC test than males (odds ratio = 0.7, 95%CI = 0.6–0.8). Median CD4 count was 429 cells/μl (interquartile range = 290–584). Among 679 clients who accepted a POC CD4 test, 491 (72%) linked to HIV care. CD4 cell count was not associated with linkage to care. Conclusion Our findings suggest that mobile HTS can identify early HIV infection, and show that a high proportion of clients with a POC test result linked to care. Future research should assess factors associated with POC test acceptance and assess the impact of POC CD4 testing in comparison to alternative strategies to engage HIV positive people in care.
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18
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Harklerode R, Todd J, de Wit M, Beard J, Urassa M, Machemba R, Maduhu B, Hargreaves J, Somi G, Rice B. Characterizing a Leak in the HIV Care Cascade: Assessing Linkage Between HIV Testing and Care in Tanzania. Front Public Health 2020; 7:406. [PMID: 32083047 PMCID: PMC7002436 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In Tanzania, HIV testing data are reported aggregately for national surveillance, making it difficult to accurately measure the extent to which newly diagnosed persons are entering care, which is a critical step of the HIV care cascade. We assess, at the individual level, linkage of newly diagnosed persons to HIV care. Methods: An expanded two-part referral form was developed to include additional variables and unique identifiers. The expanded form contained a corresponding number for matching the two-parts between testing and care. Data were prospectively collected at 16 health facilities in the Magu District of Tanzania. Results: The records of 1,275 unique people testing HIV positive were identified and included in our analysis. Of these, 1,200 (94.1%) responded on previous testing history, with 184 (15.3%) testing twice or more during the pilot, or having had a previous HIV positive test. Three-quarters (932; 73.1%) of persons were linked to care during the pilot timeframe. Health service provision in the facility carrying out the HIV test was the most important factor for linkage to care; poor linkage occurred in facilities where HIV care was not immediately available. Conclusions: It is critical for persons newly diagnosed with HIV to be linked to care in a timely manner to maximize treatment effectiveness. Our findings show it is feasible to measure linkage to care using routinely collected data arising from an amended national HIV referral form. Our results illustrate the importance of utilizing individual-level data for measuring linkage to care, as repeat testing is common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richelle Harklerode
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jim Todd
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mariken de Wit
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Beard
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Mark Urassa
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | | | | | - James Hargreaves
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Geoffrey Somi
- Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Brian Rice
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Ayieko J, Petersen ML, Charlebois ED, Brown LB, Clark TD, Kwarisiima D, Kamya MR, Cohen CR, Bukusi EA, Havlir DV, Van Rie A. A Patient-Centered Multicomponent Strategy for Accelerated Linkage to Care Following Community-Wide HIV Testing in Rural Uganda and Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 80:414-422. [PMID: 30807481 PMCID: PMC6410970 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As countries move toward universal HIV treatment, many individuals fail to link to care after diagnosis of HIV. Efficient and effective linkage strategies are needed. METHODS We implemented a patient-centered, multicomponent linkage strategy in the SEARCH "test-and-treat" trial (NCT 01864603) in Kenya and Uganda. After population-based, community-wide HIV testing, eligible participants were (1) introduced to clinic staff after testing, (2) provided a telephone "hot-line" for enquiries, (3) provided an appointment reminder phone call, (4) given transport reimbursement on linkage, and (5) tracked if linkage appointment was missed. We estimated the proportion linked to care within 1 year and evaluated factors associated with linkage at 7, 30, and 365 days after diagnosis. RESULTS Among 71,308 adults tested, 6811 (9.6%) were HIV-infected; of these, 4760 (69.9%) were already in HIV care, and 30.1% were not. Among 2051 not in care, 58% were female, median age was 32 (interquartile range 26-40) years, and median CD4 count was 493 (interquartile range 331-683) cells/µL. Half (49.7%) linked within 1 week, and 73.4% linked within 1 year. Individuals who were younger [15-34 vs. >35 years, adjusted Risk Ratio (aRR) 0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.74 to 0.94], tested at home vs. community campaign (aRR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.81 to 0.94), had a high HIV-risk vs. low-risk occupation (aRR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.75 to 0.88), and were wealthier (aRR 0.90, 95% CI: 0.83 to 0.97) were less likely to link. Linkage did not differ by marital status, stable residence, level of education, or having a phone contact. CONCLUSIONS Using a multicomponent linkage strategy, high proportions of people living with HIV but not in care linked rapidly after HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Ayieko
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Maya L. Petersen
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA
| | | | | | - Tamara D. Clark
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Dalsone Kwarisiima
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Annelies Van Rie
- Faculty of Medicine and Public Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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