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Mhando F, Mushy SE, Nyankomo M, Haraka F, Maokola W, Masunga Z, Machalo T, Nnko C, Gill MM, Kimambo S, Janson S, Toussaint S, Bourgeau MJ, Kopeka M, Teri I, Hall C, Ni Z, Hatcher G, Mabusi MS, Conserve DF. Clients' and providers' perspectives in informing a digital health intervention to improve linkage to care after Index HIV self-testing in Hai and Moshi Districts, Tanzania. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:1084. [PMID: 39289724 PMCID: PMC11409602 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11466-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital health interventions have the potential to improve linkage to care after HIV self-testing (HIVST). This study aimed to understand clients' and providers' perceptions of benefits, and barriers of a digital health intervention designed to improve linkage to care after HIV self-testing in Tanzania. METHODS This exploratory qualitative research study was conducted in Hai and Moshi, districts in Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania. Four health facilities were selected based on their involvement in an HIVST pilot program implemented by Elizabeth Glassier Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) Tanzania through the USAID funded program. The study included female index clients and their partners, and healthcare providers at the healthcare facilities. We used a semi-structured interview guide with open-ended questions for data collection. Data collection was conducted from 16th January 2023 to 3rd February 2023. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data was conducted, guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM), and results were developed in collaboration with the community partners. RESULTS A total of 42 participants were included in the study, comprising 9 male clients, 17 female index clients, and 16 health care workers (HCWs) (4 male and 12 female) who were involved in delivering HIVST services. The study's findings revealed mixed feelings about the use of a digital health intervention. Majority of participants perceived digital health as a valuable intervention for enhancing linkage to care, improved health outcomes, improved communication with healthcare workers, and increased privacy. Therefore, they supported scale-up of a digital health intervention. Participants also expressed that the potential benefits of a digital health intervention include the convenience of accessing healthcare services from the comfort of their homes or any location. However, a few participants expressed concerns about potential risks associated with sending health-related text messages. They feared that recipients might not be in a safe space, leading to stigma and avoidance of engagement. A few female participants expressed concerns about confidentiality breaches, particularly regarding shared phones with family or friends. Fear of being judged or misunderstood by others could deter them from reading or acting upon these messages. Most participants recommended tailored strategies that prioritize confidentiality and trust. Recognizing these psychological aspects is vital for customizing digital health interventions to effectively address participants' concerns. CONCLUSIONS Digital health interventions may improve the linkage of HIV self-testers to care. Recommendations include personalized and culturally relevant communication and technical accessibility to make interventions effective and inclusive. This study provides valuable insights for designing patient-centered interventions for HIV care and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Mhando
- Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Stella E Mushy
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Marwa Nyankomo
- Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Frederick Haraka
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Thomas Machalo
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Catherine Nnko
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Michelle M Gill
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sajida Kimambo
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Samuel Janson
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | - Mamaswatsi Kopeka
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ivan Teri
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Christa Hall
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Zhao Ni
- Yale University School of Nursing, New Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Genae Hatcher
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Donaldson F Conserve
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Ostermann J, Njau B, van Zwetselaar M, Yamanis T, McClimans L, Mwangi R, Beti M, Hobbie A, Gass SJ, Mtuy T, Thielman N. Mobile Phone-Based Confidential Social Network Referrals for HIV Testing (CONSORT): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e55068. [PMID: 38814692 PMCID: PMC11176874 DOI: 10.2196/55068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Critical to efforts to end the HIV epidemic is the identification of persons living with HIV who have yet to be diagnosed and engaged in care. Expanded HIV testing outreach efforts need to be both efficient and ambitious, targeting the social networks of persons living with HIV and those at above-average risk of undiagnosed HIV infection. The ubiquity of mobile phones across many high HIV prevalence settings has created opportunities to leverage mobile health (mHealth) technologies to engage social networks for HIV testing outreach, prevention, and treatment. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to evaluate the acceptability and efficacy of a novel mHealth intervention, "Confidential Social Network Referrals for HIV Testing (CONSORT)," to nudge at-risk individuals to test for HIV using SMS text messages. METHODS We will conduct the CONSORT study in Moshi, Tanzania, the commercial center and administrative capital of the Kilimanjaro Region in northern Tanzania. After qualitative formative work and pilot testing, we will enroll 400 clients presenting for HIV counseling and testing and 200 persons living with HIV and receiving care at HIV care and treatment centers as "inviters" into a randomized controlled trial. Eligible participants will be aged 18 years or older and live, work, or regularly receive care in Moshi. We will randomize inviters into 1 of 2 study arms. All inviters will be asked to complete a survey of their HIV testing and risk behaviors and to think of social network contacts who would benefit from HIV testing. They will then be asked to whom they would prefer to extend an HIV testing invitation in the form of a physical invitation card. Arm 1 participants will also be given the opportunity to extend CONSORT invitations in the form of automated confidential SMS text messages to any of their social network contacts or "invitees." Arm 2 participants will be offered physical invitation cards alone. The primary outcome will be counselor-documented uptake of HIV testing by invitees within 30 days of inviter enrollment. Secondary outcomes will include the acceptability of CONSORT among inviters, the number of new HIV diagnoses, and the HIV risk of invitees who present for testing. RESULTS Enrollment in the randomized controlled trial is expected to start in September 2024. The findings will be disseminated to stakeholders and published in peer-reviewed journals. CONCLUSIONS If CONSORT is acceptable and effective for increasing the uptake of HIV testing, given the minimal costs of SMS text reminders and the potential for exponential but targeted growth using chain referrals, it may shift current practices for HIV testing programs in the area. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClincalTrials.gov NCT05967208; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05967208. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/55068.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Ostermann
- Department of Health Services Policy & Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Bernard Njau
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | | | - Thespina Yamanis
- School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Leah McClimans
- Department of Philosophy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Rose Mwangi
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Melkiory Beti
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Amy Hobbie
- Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, SC, United States
| | - Salomé-Joelle Gass
- Department of Health Services Policy & Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Tara Mtuy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nathan Thielman
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
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Mujwara D, Kelvin EA, Dahman B, George G, Nixon D, Adera T, Mwai E, Kimmel AD. The economic costs and cost-effectiveness of HIV self-testing among truck drivers in Kenya. Health Policy Plan 2024; 39:355-362. [PMID: 38441272 PMCID: PMC11005835 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czae013] [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: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
HIV status awareness is critical for ending the HIV epidemic but remains low in high-HIV-risk and hard-to-reach sub-populations. Targeted, efficient interventions are needed to improve HIV test-uptake. We examined the incremental cost-effectiveness of offering the choice of self-administered oral HIV-testing (HIVST-Choice) compared with provider-administered testing only [standard-of-care (SOC)] among long-distance truck drivers. Effectiveness data came from a randomized-controlled trial conducted at two roadside wellness clinics in Kenya (HIVST-Choice arm, n = 150; SOC arm, n = 155). Economic cost data came from the literature, reflected a societal perspective and were reported in 2020 international dollars (I$), a hypothetical currency with equivalent purchasing power as the US dollar. Generalized Poisson and linear gamma regression models were used to estimate effectiveness and incremental costs, respectively; incremental effectiveness was reported as the number of long-distance truck drivers needing to receive HIVST-Choice for an additional HIV test-uptake. We calculated the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of HIVST-Choice compared with SOC and estimated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using non-parametric bootstrapping. Uncertainty was assessed using deterministic sensitivity analysis and the cost-effectiveness acceptability curve. HIV test-uptake was 23% more likely for HIVST-Choice, with six individuals needing to be offered HIVST-Choice for an additional HIV test-uptake. The mean per-patient cost was nearly 4-fold higher in HIVST-Choice (I$39.28) versus SOC (I$10.80), with an ICER of I$174.51, 95% CI [165.72, 194.59] for each additional test-uptake. HIV self-test kit and cell phone service costs were the main drivers of the ICER, although findings were robust even at highest possible costs. The probability of cost-effectiveness approached 1 at a willingness-to-pay of I$200 for each additional HIV test-uptake. HIVST-Choice improves HIV-test-uptake among truck drivers at low willingness-to-pay thresholds, suggesting that HIV self-testing is an efficient use of resources. Policies supporting HIV self-testing in similar high risk, hard-to-reach sub-populations may expedite achievement of international targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deo Mujwara
- Department of Health Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University, 830 East Main Street, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Analysis Group, Inc, 111 Huntington Ave 4th floor, Boston, MA 02199, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Kelvin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics & CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, 205 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Bassam Dahman
- Department of Health Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University, 830 East Main Street, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Gavin George
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Daniel Nixon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1200 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219, USA
| | - Tilahun Adera
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Division of Epidemiology, 1200 E. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Eva Mwai
- North Star Alliance, 8 Silanga Road, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - April D Kimmel
- Department of Health Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University, 830 East Main Street, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1200 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219, USA
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Mhando F, Nyankomo M, Hall C, Olughu K, Hlongwa M, Janson S, Idahosa LO, Hatcher G, Conserve DF. Digital Intervention Services to Promote HIV Self-Testing and Linkage to Care Services: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis-Global Trends and Future Directions. Public Health Rev 2024; 45:1606354. [PMID: 38434540 PMCID: PMC10904570 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2024.1606354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: The global burden of HIV remains a critical public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, home to over two-thirds of individuals living with HIV. HIV self-testing (HIVST) has emerged as a promising strategy endorsed by the World Health Organization to achieve UNAIDS targets. Despite its potential, challenges persist in linking self-testers to care post a positive result. Digital health interventions, including chatbots and mobile applications, offer innovative solutions to address this gap. However, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the collaboration and growth in the literature at the intersection of HIVST and digital interventions is lacking. Methods: The study employs a bibliometric approach, leveraging data from the Web of Science, to analyze the characteristics, citation pattern and content of 289 articles spanning 1992-2023. The analysis involves performance assessment, scientific collaboration analysis, science mapping, and content analysis. Key bibliometric indicators, such as annual growth rate, citation impact, and authorship patterns, are explored. Collaboration patterns among countries, institutions, and authors are elucidated, and thematic mapping provides insight into the key research themes. Results: The analysis reveals a dynamic and expanding field, with an annual scientific growth rate of 12.25%. Notable contributions come from diverse sources, including North America, Europe, and Africa. High-impact journals such as JMIR mHealth and uHealth play a crucial role in disseminating research findings. African authors, including Lebelonyane R, Ford N, and Lockman S, feature prominently, reflecting a positive trend in diverse authorship. Co-citation analysis highlights influential manuscripts, with systematic reviews dominating the top-cited articles. Collaboration analysis underscores strategic partnerships globally, particularly involving the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Conclusion: This bibliometrics analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the digital health landscape in HIVST and linkage to care. It identifies key contributors, high-impact journals, and collaborative networks. The thematic map reveals nuanced research domains, including alcohol dependence, men's health, outcomes, and user acceptance. The findings offer insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, guiding future directions in the evolving intersection of HIVST and digital health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Mhando
- Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Ifakara Health Institute, Bagamoyo Research and Training Centre, Bagamoyo, Tanzania
| | - Marwa Nyankomo
- Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Christa Hall
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Kelia Olughu
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Public Health, Societies and Belonging, Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Samuel Janson
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Love O. Idahosa
- Department of Economics, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Genae Hatcher
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Donaldson F. Conserve
- Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
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Ye J, Xiong S, Wang T, Li J, Cheng N, Tian M, Yang Y. The Roles of Electronic Health Records for Clinical Trials in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Scoping Review. JMIR Med Inform 2023; 11:e47052. [PMID: 37991820 DOI: 10.2196/47052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical trials are a crucial element in advancing medical knowledge and developing new treatments by establishing the evidence base for safety and therapeutic efficacy. However, the success of these trials depends on various factors, including trial design, project planning, research staff training, and adequate sample size. It is also crucial to recruit participants efficiently and retain them throughout the trial to ensure timely completion. OBJECTIVE There is an increasing interest in using electronic health records (EHRs)-a widely adopted tool in clinical practice-for clinical trials. This scoping review aims to understand the use of EHR in supporting the conduct of clinical trials in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and to identify its strengths and limitations. METHODS A comprehensive search was performed using 5 databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. We followed the latest version of the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guideline to conduct this review. We included clinical trials that used EHR at any step, conducted a narrative synthesis of the included studies, and mapped the roles of EHRs into the life cycle of a clinical trial. RESULTS A total of 30 studies met the inclusion criteria: 13 were randomized controlled trials, 3 were cluster randomized controlled trials, 12 were quasi-experimental studies, and 2 were feasibility pilot studies. Most of the studies addressed infectious diseases (15/30, 50%), with 80% (12/15) of them about HIV or AIDS and another 40% (12/30) focused on noncommunicable diseases. Our synthesis divided the roles of EHRs into 7 major categories: participant identification and recruitment (12/30, 40%), baseline information collection (6/30, 20%), intervention (8/30, 27%), fidelity assessment (2/30, 7%), primary outcome assessment (24/30, 80%), nonprimary outcome assessment (13/30, 43%), and extended follow-up (2/30, 7%). None of the studies used EHR for participant consent and randomization. CONCLUSIONS Despite the enormous potential of EHRs to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of conducting clinical trials in LMICs, challenges remain. Continued exploration of the appropriate uses of EHRs by navigating their strengths and limitations to ensure fitness for use is necessary to better understand the most optimal uses of EHRs for conducting clinical trials in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiancheng Ye
- Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Shangzhi Xiong
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faulty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Global Health Research Centre, Duke Kunshan University, Kunshan, China
| | - Tengyi Wang
- School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Nan Cheng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Maoyi Tian
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faulty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Empringham B, Karellis A, Kashkary A, D’Silva O, Carmona S, Suarez MF, Addae A, Pai NP, Zwerling AA. How much does HIV self-testing cost in low and middle income countries? A systematic review of evidence from economic studies. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1135425. [PMID: 38026397 PMCID: PMC10679730 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1135425] [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: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives HIV self-testing (HIVST) has been proposed as an innovative strategy to diagnose human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). While HIVST offers the potential to broaden accessibility of early HIV diagnosis and treatment initiation, this testing strategy incurs additional cost and requires confirmatory testing and treatment. We have conducted the first systematic review to summarize the current economic literature for HIVST in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Design A search strategy was developed including key terms for HIV, self-testing and cost-effectiveness and was conducted in Medline and Embase databases. Studies were included that reported costs per outcome and included both cost-effectiveness and cost-utility outcome measures. The search strategy identified publications up until August 15, 2023 were included. Abstract and full text screening was conducted and a standardized data abstraction form was used for included studies. Costs are reported in USD, 2020. Results Our search strategy identified 536 total titles from the search strategy, which were screened down to 25 relevant studies that provided both cost and outcome data on HIVST. There was significant heterogeneity in the HIVST intervention, study population, costs and outcomes reported among included studies. Cost per person tested ranged from $1.09-155. Cost per case diagnosed ranged from $20-1,277. Cost-utility estimates ranged from cost-saving to $1846 per DALY averted. Higher cost-effectiveness estimates were associated with more expensive testing algorithms with increased support for linkage to care and post-test counseling. Conclusion All studies considered HIVST cost-effective although major drivers were identified included underlying HIV prevalence, testing cost and linkage to care. HIVST is likely to be cost-effective in a LMIC context, however policy makers should be aware of the drivers of cost-effectiveness when implementing HIVST programs as these underlying factors can impact the overall cost-effectiveness of HIVST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Empringham
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Angela Karellis
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology & Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Abdulhameed Kashkary
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Public Health Authority, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Olivia D’Silva
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sergio Carmona
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Angelina Addae
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Nitika Pant Pai
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology & Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alice Anne Zwerling
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Shaw SY, Leung S, Isac S, Musyoki H, Mugambi M, Kioko J, Musimbi J, Olango K, Kuria S, Ongaro MK, Walimbwa J, Melon M, Emmanuel F, Moses S, Blanchard JF, Pickles M, Lazarus L, Lorway RR, Becker ML, Mishra S, Bhattacharjee P. Assessing awareness and use of HIV self-testing kits after the introduction of a community-based HIV self-testing programme among men who have sex with men in Kenya. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001547. [PMID: 37594918 PMCID: PMC10437899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) bear a disproportionate burden of new HIV infections in Kenya, while experiencing discrimination, leading to suboptimal levels of HIV care. HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a tool to increase HIV screening and earlier diagnosis; however, questions remain regarding how best to scale-up HIVST to MSM in Kenya. The main objective of this study was to examine changes in knowledge and use of HIVST after implementation of a community-led HIVST project. Participants were MSM recruited from Kisumu, Mombasa, and Kiambu counties. Data were collected from two rounds (Round 1: 2019; Round 2: 2020) of serial cross-sectional integrated biological and behavioural assessments (IBBA), pre-, and post-project implementation. Two main outcomes were measured: 1) whether the respondent had ever heard of HIVST; and 2) whether they had ever used HIVST kits. Changes in outcomes between IBBA rounds were examined using modified multivariable Poisson regression models; adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) are reported. A total of 2,328 respondents were included in main analyses. The proportion of respondents who had heard of HIVST increased from 75% in Round 1 to 94% in Round 2 (aPR: 1.2, 95% CI: 1.2-1.3), while those reporting using an HIVST kit increased from 20% to 53% (aPR: 2.3, 95% CI: 2.0-2.6). Higher levels of education and HIV programme awareness were associated with both outcomes. Awareness and use of HIVST kits increased after implementation of a community-led HIVST implementation project, demonstrating the importance of integration with existing community groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souradet Y. Shaw
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Stella Leung
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Helgar Musyoki
- National Syndemic Disease Control Council, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Mugambi
- National Syndemic Disease Control Council, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Japheth Kioko
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Janet Musimbi
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | - Memory Melon
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Faran Emmanuel
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Stephen Moses
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - James F. Blanchard
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Michael Pickles
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, England
| | - Lisa Lazarus
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Robert R. Lorway
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Marissa L. Becker
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sharmistha Mishra
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Parinita Bhattacharjee
- Institute for Global Public Health, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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8
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Kinnman E, Herder T, Björkman P, Månsson F, Agardh A. HIV self-testing for men who have sex with men in Sweden. A cross-sectional study concerning interest to use HIV self-tests. Glob Health Action 2022; 15:2021631. [PMID: 35289717 PMCID: PMC8928837 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.2021631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV self-testing (HIVST) has been found to have high acceptability among men who have sex with men (MSM) internationally and might contribute to increase testing frequencies, but many countries, including Sweden, lack policies for using HIVST. Objective To examine interest to use and willingness to pay for HIVST, and associated factors, among MSM attending HIV testing venues in Sweden. Method This cross-sectional study analyzed data from a self-administered survey, consisting of 33 questions, collected at six HIV testing venues in Sweden in 2018. The sample consisted of sexually active men who have sex with men, aged ≥ 18 years, and not diagnosed with HIV. Data were analyzed descriptively and by univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Result Among 663 participants (median age 33 years), 436 respondents (65.8%) expressed interest to use HIVST. Among those interested, less than half, 205 (47.0%), were willing to pay for HIVST. Being interested in HIVST was found to be negatively associated with being in the 55 years or older age group (AOR 0.31, CI 0.14–0.71), and having had syphilis, rectal chlamydia, or rectal gonorrhea in the preceding 12 months (AOR 0.56, CI 0.32–0.99). In the sample of MSM interested in HIVST, willingness to pay was positively associated with being in the age groups 35–44 years (AOR 2.94, CI 1.40–6.21), 45–54 years (AOR 2.82, CI 1.16–6.90), and 55 years or above (AOR 3.90, CI 1.19–12.81), and negatively associated with being single (AOR 0.56, CI 0.36–0.88). Conclusion This study found high interest for HIVST in a sample of MSM in Sweden. However, HIVST offered at a cost is likely to negatively affect uptake among MSM broadly, compared with free availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin Kinnman
- Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Tobias Herder
- Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Per Björkman
- Clinical Infection Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Månsson
- Clinical Infection Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Anette Agardh
- Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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Lepere P, Babington-Ashaye A, Martínez-Pérez GZ, Ekouevi DK, Labrique AB, Calmy A. How mHealth Can Contribute to Improving the Continuum of Care: A Scoping Review Approach to the Case of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Sub-Saharan Africa. Public Health Rev 2022; 43:1604557. [PMID: 36211227 PMCID: PMC9537374 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2022.1604557] [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: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To determine mHealth’s contribution to improving the continuum of care in sub-Saharan Africa towards achieving treatment targets for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) endorsed by the 2016 Political Declaration on ending acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Methods: PubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection and Cochrane databases; three observatories and four repositories were searched to identify and select relevant articles, projects and guidelines published from 1 January 2017, to 30 April 2021. Records focusing on the use of mHealth related to HIV treatment cascade or healthcare provider/patient relationship were considered. Results: From 574 identified records, 381 (206 scientific manuscripts and 175 mHealth projects) were considered. After screening, 36 articles (nine randomized control trials, five cohort studies, 19 qualitative studies, and three economic studies) and 23 projects were included. Conclusion: The cross-cutting benefits of mHealth that enhance patient empowerment have been identified. Important challenges such as gaps between research and implementation, lack of transdisciplinary collaboration, and lack of economic evidence were identified to support future mHealth research and accelerate the achievement of treatment targets for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Lepere
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Philippe Lepere,
| | - Awa Babington-Ashaye
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Didier Koumavi Ekouevi
- Département de Santé Publique, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Lomé, Lomé, Togo
- INSERM U1219 Bordeaux Population Health Centre Recherche (BPH), Bordeaux, France
| | - Alain Bernard Labrique
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health & Johns Hopkins University Global Digital Health Initiative, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Alexandra Calmy
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), Geneva, Switzerland
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Cassim N, Ramdin N, Moodly S, Glencross DK. Cost of running a full-service receiving office at a centralised testing laboratory in South Africa. Afr J Lab Med 2022; 11:1504. [PMID: 35937761 PMCID: PMC9350462 DOI: 10.4102/ajlm.v11i1.1504] [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: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The National Health Laboratory Service operates a platform of 226 laboratories across South Africa, ranging from highly sophisticated central academic hospitals to distant rural hospitals. The core function of the National Health Laboratory Service is to provide cost-effective and efficient health laboratory services in the public healthcare sector. Objective This study aimed to assess the comprehensive cost of running a full-service receiving office (RO) at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH) laboratory. Methods Top-down costing was conducted, with the cost per registration as the main outcome of interest. The annual equivalent costs (AEC) for the following categories were determined: registration materials, collection materials, staffing, laboratory equipment, building and electricity, and other operating costs. Data for the period from 01 April 2019 to 31 March 2020 were included in the analyses. Results The AEC was $1 657 483.00 United States dollars (USD) and the cost per registration was $0.766 USD. Staff contributed 59.9% of the total cost per registration, while collection materials contributed 21.4%. The RO core staff (data clerks) contributed 50.8% of the total staffing costs, while messengers and drivers contributed 31.2%. The introduction of order entry at the CMJAH and other primary healthcare facilities reduced the total AEC by 20%. A single order entry application would serve both the CMJAH and primary healthcare facilities - hence we would prefer to not refer to order entries. Conclusion Providing a comprehensive RO service costs approximately $1.00 USD per registration. The implementation of order entry at the CMJAH would reduce AECs substantially and improve efficiency.
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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 Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Neeshan Ramdin
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sadhaseevan Moodly
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- 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 Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Wamuti B, Sharma M, Kariithi E, Lagat H, Otieno G, Bosire R, Masyuko S, Mugambi M, Weiner BJ, Katz DA, Farquhar C, Levin C. Cost of integrating assisted partner services in HIV testing services in Kisumu and Homa Bay counties, Kenya: a microcosting study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:69. [PMID: 35031037 PMCID: PMC8759219 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07479-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV assisted partner services (aPS), or provider notification and testing for sexual and injecting partners of people diagnosed with HIV, is shown to be safe, effective, and cost-effective and was scaled up within the national HIV testing services (HTS) program in Kenya in 2016. We estimated the costs of integrating aPS into routine HTS within an ongoing aPS scale-up project in western Kenya. METHODS We conducted microcosting using the payer perspective in 14 facilities offering aPS. Although aPS was offered to both males and females testing HIV-positive (index clients), we only collected data on female index clients and their male sex partners (MSP). We used activity-based costing to identify key aPS activities, inputs, resources, and estimated financial and economic costs of goods and services. We analyzed costs by start-up (August 2018), and recurrent costs one-year after aPS implementation (Kisumu: August 2019; Homa Bay: January 2020) and conducted time-and-motion observations of aPS activities. We estimated the incremental costs of aPS, average cost per MSP traced, tested, testing HIV-positive, and on antiretroviral therapy, cost shares, and costs disaggregated by facility. RESULTS Overall, the number of MSPs traced, tested, testing HIV-positive, and on antiretroviral therapy was 1027, 869, 370, and 272 respectively. Average unit costs per MSP traced, tested, testing HIV-positive, and on antiretroviral therapy were $34.54, $42.50, $108.71 and $152.28, respectively, which varied by county and facility client volume. The weighted average incremental cost of integrating aPS was $7,485.97 per facility per year, with recurrent costs accounting for approximately 90% of costs. The largest cost drivers were personnel (49%) and transport (13%). Providers spent approximately 25% of the HTS visit obtaining MSP contact information (HIV-negative clients: 13 out of 54 min; HIV-positive clients: 20 out of 96 min), while the median time spent per MSP traced on phone and in-person was 6 min and 2.5 hours, respectively. CONCLUSION Average facility costs will increase when integrating aPS to HTS with incremental costs largely driven by personnel and transport. Strategies to efficiently utilize healthcare personnel will be critical for effective, affordable, and sustainable aPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | - Monisha Sharma
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | | | | | | | - Rose Bosire
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sarah Masyuko
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Bryan J Weiner
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - David A Katz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Carol Levin
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, Box 359909, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
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12
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Catania JA, Huun C, Dolcini MM, Urban AJ, Fleury N, Ndyetabula C, Singh R, Young AW, Conserve DF, Lace J, Msigwa JS. Overcoming cultural barriers to implementing oral HIV self-testing with high fidelity among Tanzanian youth. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:87-95. [PMID: 31785201 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibz157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tanzanian youth have high levels of HIV risk and poor access to HIV-testing. Oral self-implemented testing (Oral-SIT) provides an alternative that reduces barriers to HIV-testing. We examined adaptations to Oral-SIT training components in a randomized experiment to evaluate a "train-the-trainer" strategy for improving comprehension of graphic training materials. Participants (N = 257, age = 14-19 years) were randomly assigned to one of two self-training conditions: graphic instruction book (GIB) or Video-GIB. Outcomes included behavioral performance fidelity, self-reported comprehension, and intentions to seek treatment. Video-GIB participants, relative to GIB-only participants, had higher performance fidelity scores, made fewer performance errors, had better instruction comprehension, and were more likely to intend to seek treatment. Oral-SIT timing errors were significantly more common among GIB-only participants. Graphic training materials in conjunction with a "train-the-trainer" video has significant potential for increasing Oral-SIT's reach by overcoming technological and literacy barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Catania
- Hallie E. Ford Center, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Cassidy Huun
- Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - M Margaret Dolcini
- Hallie E. Ford Center, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Angelmary Joel Urban
- Hallie E. Ford Center, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Nick Fleury
- Hallie E. Ford Center, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | | | - Ryan Singh
- Hallie E. Ford Center, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Amy W Young
- Hallie E. Ford Center, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
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Uzoaru F, Nwaozuru U, Ong JJ, Obi F, Obiezu-Umeh C, Tucker JD, Shato T, Mason SL, Carter V, Manu S, BeLue R, Ezechi O, Iwelunmor J. Costs of implementing community-based intervention for HIV testing in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. Implement Sci Commun 2021; 2:73. [PMID: 34225820 PMCID: PMC8259076 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-021-00177-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community-based interventions (CBIs) are interventions aimed at improving the well-being of people in a community. CBIs for HIV testing seek to increase the availability of testing services to populations that have been identified as at high risk by reaching them in homes, schools, or community centers. However, evidence for a detailed cost analysis of these community-based interventions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is limited. We conducted a systematic review of the cost analysis of HIV testing interventions in SSA. METHODS Keyword search was conducted on SCOPUS, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Global Health databases. Three categories of key terms used were cost (implementation cost OR cost-effectiveness OR cost analysis OR cost-benefit OR marginal cost), intervention (HIV testing), and region (sub-Saharan Africa OR sub-Saharan Africa OR SSA). CBI studies were included if they primarily focused on HIV testing, was implemented in SSA, and used micro-costing or ingredients approach. RESULTS We identified 1533 citations. After screening, ten studies were included in the review: five from East Africa and five from Southern Africa. Two studies conducted cost-effectiveness analysis, and one study was a cost-utility analysis. The remainder seven studies were cost analyses. Four intervention types were identified: HIV self-testing (HIVST), home-based, mobile, and Provider Initiated Testing and Counseling. Commonly costed resources included personnel (n = 9), materials and equipment (n = 6), and training (n = 5). Cost outcomes reported included total intervention cost (n = 9), cost per HIV test (n = 9), cost per diagnosis (n = 5), and cost per linkage to care (n = 3). Overall, interventions were implemented at a higher cost than controls, with the largest cost difference with HIVST compared to facility-based testing. CONCLUSION To better inform policy, there is an urgent need to evaluate the costs associated with implementing CBIs in SSA. It is important for cost reports to be detailed, uniform, and informed by economic evaluation guidelines. This approach minimizes biases that may lead decision-makers to underestimate the resources required to scale up, sustain, or reproduce successful interventions in other settings. In an evolving field of implementation research, this review contributes to current resources on implementation cost studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florida Uzoaru
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Ucheoma Nwaozuru
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jason J Ong
- Department of Clinical Research and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Felix Obi
- Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Chisom Obiezu-Umeh
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Thembekile Shato
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Stacey L Mason
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Victoria Carter
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sunita Manu
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rhonda BeLue
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Oliver Ezechi
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Juliet Iwelunmor
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO, USA
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14
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Bernier T, Shah A, Ross LE, Logie CH, Seto E. The Use of Information and Communication Technologies by Sex Workers to Manage Occupational Health and Safety: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e26085. [PMID: 34185001 PMCID: PMC8277340 DOI: 10.2196/26085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In many countries, sex work is criminalized, driving sex work underground and leaving sex workers vulnerable to a number of occupational health and safety risks, including violence, assault, and robbery. With the advent of widely accessible information and communication technologies (ICTs), sex workers have begun to use electronic occupational health and safety tools to mitigate these risks. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the use of ICTs by sex workers for managing occupational health and safety risks and strategies for reducing these risks. This paper aims to answer the following question: what is known about sex workers' use of ICTs in the delivery of occupational health and safety strategies? METHODS A literature review following the methodological framework for scoping reviews was conducted to analyze studies describing the use of ICTs by sex workers to mitigate occupational health and safety risks. Experimental, observational, and descriptive studies, as well as protocol papers, were included in this scoping review. RESULTS Of the 2477 articles initially identified, 41 (1.66%) met the inclusion criteria. Of these studies, 71% (29/41) were published between 2015 and 2019. In these studies, the internet was the predominant ICT (24/41, 58%), followed by text messaging (10/41, 24%) and assorted communication technologies associated with mobile phones without internet access (7/41, 17%; eg, voice mail). In 56% (23/41) of the studies, sex workers located in high-income countries created occupational health and safety strategies (eg, bad date lists) and shared them through the internet. In 24% (10/41) of the studies, mostly in low- and middle-income countries, organizations external to sex work developed and sent (through text messages) occupational health and safety strategies focused on HIV. In 20% (8/41) of the studies, external organizations collaborated with the sex worker community in the development of occupational health and safety strategies communicated through ICTs; through this collaboration, concerns other than HIV (eg, mental health) emerged. CONCLUSIONS Although there has been an increase in the number of studies on the use of ICTs by sex workers for managing occupational health and safety over the past 5 years, knowledge of how to optimally leverage ICTs for this purpose remains scarce. Recommendations for expanding the use of ICTs by sex workers for occupational health and safety include external organizations collaborating with sex workers in the design of ICT interventions to mitigate occupational health and safety risks; to examine whether ICTs used in low- and middle-income countries would have applications in high-income countries as a substitute to the internet for sharing occupational health and safety strategies; and to explore the creation of innovative, secure, web-based communities that use existing or alternative digital technologies that could be used by sex workers to manage their occupational health and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thérèse Bernier
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amika Shah
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lori E Ross
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Emily Seto
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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15
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Rivera AS, Hernandez R, Mag-Usara R, Sy KN, Ulitin AR, O'Dwyer LC, McHugh MC, Jordan N, Hirschhorn LR. Implementation outcomes of HIV self-testing in low- and middle- income countries: A scoping review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250434. [PMID: 33939722 PMCID: PMC8092786 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV self-testing (HIV-ST) is an effective means of improving HIV testing rates. Low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) are taking steps to include HIV-ST into their national HIV/AIDS programs but very few reviews have focused on implementation in LMIC. We performed a scoping review to describe and synthesize existing literature on implementation outcomes of HIV-ST in LMIC. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of Medline, Embase, Global Health, Web of Science, and Scopus, supplemented by searches in HIVST.org and other grey literature databases (done 23 September 2020) and included articles if they reported at least one of the following eight implementation outcomes: acceptability, appropriateness, adoption, feasibility, fidelity, cost, penetration, or sustainability. Both quantitative and qualitative results were extracted and synthesized in a narrative manner. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Most (75%) of the 206 included articles focused on implementation in Africa. HIV-ST was found to be acceptable and appropriate, perceived to be convenient and better at maintaining confidentiality than standard testing. The lack of counselling and linkage to care, however, was concerning to stakeholders. Peer and online distribution were found to be effective in improving adoption. The high occurrence of user errors was a common feasibility issue reported by studies, although, diagnostic accuracy remained high. HIV-ST was associated with higher program costs but can still be cost-effective if kit prices remain low and HIV detection improves. Implementation fidelity was not always reported and there were very few studies on, penetration, and sustainability. CONCLUSIONS Evidence supports the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of HIV-ST in the LMIC context. Costs and user error rates are threats to successful implementation. Future research should address equity through measuring penetration and potential barriers to sustainability including distribution, cost, scale-up, and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adovich S Rivera
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Ralph Hernandez
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Regiel Mag-Usara
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Karen Nicole Sy
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Allan R Ulitin
- Institute of Health Policy and Development Studies, National Institutes for Health, Manila, Philippines
| | - Linda C O'Dwyer
- Galter Health Sciences Library & Learning Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Megan C McHugh
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Neil Jordan
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare, Hines VA Hospital, Hines, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Lisa R Hirschhorn
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Institute of Global Health, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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16
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Njau B, Damian DJ, Abdullahi L, Boulle A, Mathews C. The effects of HIV self-testing on the uptake of HIV testing, linkage to antiretroviral treatment and social harms among adults in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245498. [PMID: 33503050 PMCID: PMC7840047 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV infection is still a global public health problem. More than 75% of HIV-infected people are in Africa, and up to 54% are unaware of their HIV status, limiting access to antiretroviral treatment. CONTEXT AND PURPOSE OF THE STUDY This review aimed to determine whether HIV self-testing (HIVST) increases the uptake of testing, the yield of new HIV-positive diagnoses, and the linkage to antiretroviral treatment, and social harms among adults in Africa. METHODS PubMed, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Pan African Clinical Trials Registry, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), Databases of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness (DARE), Social Sciences Citation Index, Web of Science and African Index Medicus databases were searched from 1998 to 2019 (updated in December 2019). Eligible trials employed randomized controlled trials (RCTs), before/after studies, and interrupted time series design comparing HIVST to standard HIV testing services or comparing different approaches to HIVST among adults living in Africa were systematically sought. RESULTS After searching 2,617 citations eleven trials were identified including 59,119 participants from four (4) African countries. Meta-analysis of seven trials showed a significant increase in the uptake of HIVST compared to standard HIV testing services: Both fixed-effects (Rate Ratio (RR) = 2.64, 95% CI: 2.51 to 2.79), and random-effects (RR) = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.80 to 5.37, and a significant increase in the uptake of couples' HIVST (RR = 2.50, 95% CI: 2.29 to 2.73 in fixed-effects models; and RR = 2.64, 95% CI: 2.01 to 3.49 in random-effects model). A decrease in linkage to care and ART was observed in HIVST compared to standard HIV testing services (RR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.88 to 0.95 in fixed-effects models; and RR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0. 56 to 1.08 in random-effects models). Six RCTs measured social harms, with a total of ten reported cases related to HIVST. One RCT comparing two approaches to HIVST showed that offering home-based HIVST with optional home-initiation of antiretroviral treatment increased the reporting of a positive HIV test result (RR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.16 to 2.98), and linkage to antiretroviral treatment (RR: 2.94; 95% CI: 2.10 to 4.12), compared with facility-based linkage to antiretroviral treatment. CONCLUSIONS HIVST has the potential to increase the uptake of HIV testing compared to standard HIV testing services. Offering HIVST with optional home initiation of HIV care compared to HIVST with facility-based HIV care increases HIV positivity and linkage to antiretroviral treatment. Reported incidences of intimate partner violence related to HIVST were rare. Future research should focus on the potential of HIVST to reach first-time testers, the effect of using different approaches to HIVST, and strategies for linkage to HIV services. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION This systematic review was prospectively registered on the Prospero International Prospective Register of Systematic Review (CRD42015023935).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Njau
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Damian J. Damian
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Leila Abdullahi
- Save the Children International SCI, Somalia/Somaliland Country Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Andrew Boulle
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Catherine Mathews
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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HIV Oral Self-Testing for Male Partners of Women Attending Antenatal Care in Central Uganda: Uptake of Testing and Linkage to Care in a Randomized Trial. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 84:271-279. [PMID: 32168168 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Uganda, HIV testing rates are approximately 90% among women in antenatal care, with male rates much lower. The World Health Organization has recommended HIV self-testing (HIVST), and one promising model is for women in antenatal care to deliver HIVST kits to their male partners. We investigated the impact of this model on male partner testing rates. SETTING Three high-volume antenatal clinics in central Uganda. METHODS We implemented a cluster-randomized controlled trial comparing standard of care to intervention, with the primary outcome of self-reported male partner HIV testing. Women and male partners were followed at 1 and 3 months. We used unadjusted analyses and log-linear models with an intent-to-treat approach accounting for clustering. RESULTS Study coordinators randomized 1514 women (777 intervention and 737 control). Baseline characteristics were balanced across arms with mean age (SD) of 25.2 (5.5) years and >44% with secondary education or higher. More male partners tested for HIV in intervention [576/746 (77.2%)] versus control [264/709 (37.2%)], P < 0.01. We identified 34 HIV-positive men in intervention versus 10 in control, with 6/26 (23%) and 4/6 (67%), respectively, reporting linking to care. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate an enormous increase in self-reported partner HIV testing when HIVST is available at home. However, men testing positive through HIVST appeared less likely to link to care than men testing positive at a clinic. These results highlight the potential of HIVST in increasing HIV testing rates, while underscoring the importance of developing effective approaches to maximizing linkage to care among those testing positive through HIVST.
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The Evidence for HIV Self-Testing to Increase HIV Testing Rates and the Implementation Challenges that Remain. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2020; 17:281-289. [PMID: 32519185 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00504-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We describe the evidence regarding the impact of offering HIV self-testing (HIVST) and explore the gaps that need to be filled to design and implement HIVST programs. RECENT FINDINGS Numerous randomized controlled trials found that offering HIVST increases HIV testing rates. However, these trials used an oral HIVST that was provided for free and there is no research examining the impact of offering blood-based (finger prick) kits or charging for HIVST kits. The trials also used various methods for distributing the HIVST kits, but there is little research comparing distribution methods. Study participants varied in the HIV testing method they chose when given choices, suggesting that offering multiple HIV testing options may be needed to maximize testing rates. Despite the consistent finding that offering HIVST increases HIV testing rates, questions remain that need to be answered in order to maximize the potential of this new biomedical technology.
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Chen Y, Ronen K, Matemo D, Unger JA, Kinuthia J, John-Stewart G, Levin C. An Interactive Text Messaging Intervention to Improve Adherence to Option B+ Prevention of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission in Kenya: Cost Analysis. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e18351. [PMID: 33006562 PMCID: PMC7568211 DOI: 10.2196/18351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile health (mHealth) approaches offer potentially affordable ways to support the care of HIV-infected patients in overstretched health care systems. However, only few studies have analyzed the costs associated with mHealth solutions for HIV care. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to estimate the total incremental costs and incremental cost per beneficiary of an interactive SMS text messaging support intervention within a clinical trial. METHODS The Mobile WAChX trial (NCT02400671) evaluates an interactive semiautomated SMS text messaging intervention to improve adherence to antiretroviral therapy and retention in care among peripartum women infected with HIV in Kenya to reduce the mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Women were randomized to receive one-way versus two-way SMS text messages. Messages were sent weekly, and these messages included motivational and educational content and visit reminders; two-way messaging enabled prompt consultation with the nurse as needed. Microcosting methods were used to collect resource-use data related to implementing the Mobile WAChX SMS text messaging intervention. At 2 sites (Nairobi and Western Kenya), we conducted semistructured interviews with health personnel to identify startup and recurrent activities by obtaining information on the personnel, supplies, and equipment. Data on expenditures and prices from project expense reports, administrative records, and published government salary data were included to estimate the total incremental costs. Using a public provider perspective, we estimated incremental unit costs per beneficiary and per contact during 2017. RESULTS The weighted average annual incremental costs for the two-way SMS text messaging group were US $3725 per facility, US $62 per beneficiary, and US $0.85 per contact to reach 115 beneficiaries. For the one-way SMS text messaging group, the weighted average annual incremental costs were US $2542 per facility, US $41 per beneficiary, and US $0.66 per contact to reach 117 beneficiaries. The largest cost shares were for the personnel: 48.2% (US $1794/US $3725) in two-way and 32.4% (US $825/US $2542) in one-way SMS text messaging groups. Costs associated with software development and communication accounted for 29.9% (US $1872/US $6267) of the costs in both intervention arms (US $1042 vs US $830, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Cost information for budgeting and financial planning is relevant for implementing mHealth interventions in national health plans. Given the proportion of costs related to systems development, it is likely that costs per beneficiary will decline with the scale-up of the interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Chen
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Keshet Ronen
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | | | - Jennifer A Unger
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | | | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Carol Levin
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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Zhang W, Hu Q, Tang W, Jin X, Mao X, Lu T, Gao Y, Chu Z, Dong W, Bao Y, Shang H, Xu J. HIV Self-Testing Programs to Men Who Have Sex With Men Delivered by Social Media Key Opinion Leaders and Community-Based Organizations are Both Effective and Complementary: A National Pragmatic Study in China. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 84:453-462. [PMID: 32692103 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media key opinion leaders (SMKOLs) and community-based organizations (CBOs) are 2 leading delivery strategies for HIV self-testing (HIVST). This study compared respondent characteristics, linkage to care, antiretroviral treatment, and cost of HIVST among men who have sex with men (MSM) recruited via SMKOLs and CBOs in China. METHODS Between January and December 2018, SMKOLs distributed HIVST advertisements to MSM through WeChat public platforms; simultaneously, CBOs distributed HIVST program messages to local MSM. All participants were required to pay a deposit to apply for the HIVST kit and had their deposit refunded after completing an online survey and uploading HIVST results. Trained staff provided HIV referral services by telephone and WeChat. RESULTS One thousand seven hundred forty-three [63.0% (1743/2766)] and 1023 [37.0% (1023/2766)] individuals met criteria via SMKOLs and CBOs, respectively. MSM reached by SMKOLs had a lower HIV seropositive rate [2.1% (33/1561) vs. 12.5% (100/803)] and higher proportion received antiretroviral treatment [94.4% (31/33) vs. 29.0% (29/100)] compared with CBO-recruited MSM (all P < 0.05). The average number of HIVST respondents recruited by each investigator in SMKOL-strategy was higher than that of CBO-strategy (290 vs. 49). The SMKOLs had lower cost of per person tested (USD 13.18 vs. USD 101.21) and per newly identified HIV infection case (USD 632.66 vs. USD 812.70). CONCLUSIONS SMKOLs have lower cost of per person tested, whereas CBOs can reach MSM subpopulations with higher HIV seropositive rates. Both recruitment methods are efficient and should be used as complementary HIVST delivery strategies to address low HIV testing coverage among Chinese MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenran Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qinghai Hu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina Project China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Jin
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Mao
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianyi Lu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Gao
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhenxing Chu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Willa Dong
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC; and
| | - Yugang Bao
- AIDS Healthcare Foundation China Program, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Shang
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjie Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology (China Medical University), Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology of Liaoning Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of AIDS Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, China
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Hensen B, Schaap AJ, Mulubwa C, Floyd S, Shanaube K, Phiri MM, Bond V, Bwalya C, Simwinga M, Fidler S, Hayes R, Mwinga A, Ayles H. Who Accepts and Who Uses Community-Based Secondary Distribution HIV Self-Testing (HIVST) Kits? Findings From the Intervention Arm of a Cluster-Randomized Trial of HIVST Distribution Nested in Four HPTN 071 (PopART) Communities in Zambia. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 84:355-364. [PMID: 32195749 PMCID: PMC7340225 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HPTN 071 (PopART) was a community-randomized trial of a universal testing-and-treatment intervention on HIV incidence at population level in Zambia and South Africa. In Zambia, a trial of community-based distribution of HIV self-testing (HIVST) kits, including secondary distribution, as an option for HIV-testing was nested within 4 PopART intervention communities. We used data from the intervention arm of the nested trial to measure levels of and factors associated with acceptance and use of secondary distribution HIVST kits. METHODS Community HIV care providers offered the PopART combination HIV-prevention intervention door-to-door, systematically visiting all households and enumerating all household members. From 1 February to 30 April 2017, individuals aged 16 years and older consenting to PopART were offered the option to HIV self-test, if eligible for HIV-testing services. Individuals aged 18 years and older who reported a partner absent during household visits were offered an HIVST kit for secondary distribution to this partner. We used two data sources to measure acceptance and use of secondary distribution HIVST kits. RESULTS Among 9105 individuals aged 18 years and older consenting to PopART, 9.1% (n = 825) accepted an HIVST kit for secondary distribution. Approximately 55.8% reported that the kit had been used. Women were more likely to accept, and men more likely to use, secondary distribution HIVST kits. Kits were more likely to be used by individuals aged 30+ and who had not participated in a previous round of PopART. Approximately 6.8% had a reactive result. CONCLUSIONS Community-based secondary distribution of HIVST kits reached men absent during community HIV care provider household visits and is a complement to facility- and community-based HIV-testing services, which often miss men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Hensen
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Albertus J Schaap
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Zambart, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Sian Floyd
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Virginia Bond
- Zambart, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom; and
| | | | | | - Sarah Fidler
- Imperial College, London, United Kingdom and Imperial College NIHR BRC
| | - Richard Hayes
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Helen Ayles
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Zambart, Lusaka, Zambia
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