1
|
Minnis AM, Agot K, Hartmann M, Otticha S, Montgomery ET, Roberts ST. Feasibility and Acceptability of the Novel Tu'Washindi Intervention to Increase PrEP Use among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Siaya County, Kenya. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04390-3. [PMID: 38836985 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04390-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The Tu'Washindi intervention addressed intimate partner violence (IPV) and relationship dynamics to increase PrEP use among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Siaya County, Kenya. We evaluated feasibility and acceptability in a cluster-randomized trial in six DREAMS Safe Spaces. The multilevel intervention, delivered over 6 months, included three components delivered by DREAMS staff with support from the study team: an 8-session structured support club; community sensitization of male partners; and a couples PrEP education and health fair ("Buddy Day"). Feasibility and acceptability assessments included implementation process measures, questionnaires, and focus group discussions with AGYWs and post-intervention questionnaires with intervention providers. The study included 103 AGYWs aged 17 to 24 (N = 49 intervention), with 97% retention. Median age was 22, 54% were married, and 84% were mothers. At enrollment, 45% used PrEP and 61% reported lifetime IPV. All intervention participants attended at least one support club session (mean = 5.2 of 8) and 90% attended Buddy Day. At 6 months, most participants perceived Tu'Washindi to be effective: all agreed (with 54% reporting "strongly agree") that the intervention improved partner communication and 60% agreed they were better able to gain partner support for their PrEP use. Providers believed the intervention resonated with community values. Tu'Washindi was highly acceptable and feasible and it was perceived by AGYW participants and providers as being effective in improving partner relationships and supporting PrEP use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Minnis
- Research Triangle Park, Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 800, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA.
| | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Miriam Hartmann
- Research Triangle Park, Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 800, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | - Sophie Otticha
- Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth T Montgomery
- Research Triangle Park, Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 800, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | - Sarah T Roberts
- Research Triangle Park, Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 800, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Johnson SL, Rasmussen JM, Mansoor M, Ibrahim H, Rono W, Goel P, Vissoci JRN, Von Isenburg M, Puffer ES. Correlates of Intimate Partner Violence Victimization and Perpetration in Adolescents and Young Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:1168-1183. [PMID: 37226506 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231173428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global public health crisis with long-term adverse consequences for both victims and perpetrators. Patterns of violence often begin during adolescence, yet most interventions target adult relationships. A systematic review was conducted to identify correlates of IPV victimization and perpetration among adolescents and young adults in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Eligible studies included participants 10 to 24 years old, took place in SSA, and tested a statistical association between a correlate and an IPV outcome. Correlates were defined as any condition or characteristic associated with statistically significant increased or decreased risk of IPV victimization or perpetration. PsycInfo, PubMed, Embase, and African Index Medicus were searched and included studies published between January 1, 2000 and February 4, 2022. The search resulted in 3,384 original studies, of which 55 met inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Correlates were first qualitatively synthesized by developmental period (e.g., early adolescence, older adolescence, and young adulthood) and then organized in a conceptual framework by correlate type (e.g., socio-demographic; health, behavior, and attitudes; relational; or contextual). Over two decades of literature reveals variability in evidence by developmental period but also substantial overlap in the correlates of victimization and perpetration. This review identifies multiple points for intervention and results suggest the urgent need for earlier, developmentally appropriate prevention efforts among younger adolescents as well as combined approaches that target both victimization and perpetration of IPV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Savannah L Johnson
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Justin M Rasmussen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Hawo Ibrahim
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Wilter Rono
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Pari Goel
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - João R N Vissoci
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Megan Von Isenburg
- Duke University Medical Center Library, Duke University Medical Center Archives, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eve S Puffer
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Haberer JE, Oware K, Juma L, Nyerere B, Momanyi V, Odoyo J, Garrison L, Bhagat J, Musinguzi N, Baeten JM, Siegler A, Bukusi EA. My Way: development and preliminary evaluation of a novel delivery system for PrEP and other sexual health needs of young women in Western Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26217. [PMID: 38379132 PMCID: PMC10879470 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26217] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young women in sub-Saharan Africa are a priority population for HIV prevention, yet challenges with adherence and persistence to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are common. This study involved the development and pilot testing of My Way-a novel delivery system for PrEP and co-packaged sexual health services. METHODS My Way was developed in Kisumu, Kenya through a user-centred design process (2020). The intervention involves peer-delivery and support for HIV testing and PrEP use, self-collected vaginal swabs for sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, pregnancy testing, oral contraceptive pills, self-injectable medroxyprogesterone and/or condoms. My Way was assessed among 16- to 24-year-old sexually active women in a randomized controlled trial versus standard of care (SoC; 2021-2022). Use of PrEP and other sexual health services were tracked at 1, 3 and 6 months for feasibility. Acceptability was determined by questionnaire. The effect of the intervention on tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) levels was assessed by chi-square test (primary outcome); other predictors were explored with regression analysis. RESULTS Among 150 women, the median age was 22 years and the median number of sexual partners was 2. Moderate/severe depression was common (60%). In the intervention arm, peers made 88% (198/225) of possible kit deliveries (177 with PrEP) and 49 STIs were diagnosed. In the SoC arm, 24% (55/225) of expected clinic visits occurred (53 with PrEP); no STI testing was performed. TVF-DP was detected in 16 participants at 6 months: 16% (12/75) in the intervention arm versus 5% (4/75) in the SoC arm (p = 0.03). Persistence among those with ongoing HIV prevention needs (i.e. prevention-effective persistence) was 18% (12/67) versus 7% (4/56; p = 0.08). No women acquired HIV. The intervention was significantly associated with detectable TFV-DP (OR 3.5, 1.1-11.4; p = 0.04); moderate/severe depression trended towards an association with TFV-DP (OR 0.2, 0.03-1.6; p = 0.13). CONCLUSIONS My Way is a promising delivery system for PrEP and other sexual health services among young women in Western Kenya. We found high feasibility and acceptability. PrEP use was modest, but higher with My Way compared to SoC. Long-acting PrEP formulations may overcome important barriers to PrEP use and should be explored in combination with the My Way delivery model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E. Haberer
- Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Kenya Medical Research InstituteKisumuKenya
- University of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Roberts ST, Hartmann M, Minnis AM, Otticha SO, Browne EN, Montgomery ET, Agot K. Breaking down relationship barriers to increase PrEP uptake and adherence among adolescent girls and young women in Kenya: safety and preliminary effectiveness results from a pilot cluster-randomized trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26198. [PMID: 38123866 PMCID: PMC10733161 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26198] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has the potential to reduce HIV acquisition among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa, a priority population for epidemic control. However, intimate partner violence (IPV) and low relationship power can create significant challenges to PrEP use. The Tu'Washindi intervention aimed to increase PrEP use by addressing relationship- and violence-related barriers among AGYW enrolled in the DREAMS Initiative in Siaya County, Kenya. METHODS Our multi-level, community-based intervention was piloted in a cluster-randomized controlled trial conducted at six DREAMS sites from April to December 2019 (NCT03938818). Three intervention components were delivered over 6 months: an eight-session empowerment-based support club, community sensitization targeted towards male partners and a couples' PrEP education event. Participants were ages 17-24, HIV negative and either eligible for, or already taking, PrEP. Over 6 months of follow-up, we assessed IPV (months 3 and 6) and PrEP uptake and continuation (month 6) through interviewer-administered questionnaires; PrEP adherence was assessed with Wisepill electronic monitoring devices. These outcomes were compared using adjusted Poisson and negative binomial regression models. RESULTS We enrolled 103 AGYW with median age of 22 years (IQR 20-23); one-third were currently taking PrEP and 45% reported IPV in the past 3 months. Retention was 97% at month 6. Compared to the control arm, intervention arm participants were more likely to initiate PrEP, if not already using it at enrolment (52% vs. 24%, aRR 2.28, 95% CI 1.19-4.38, p = 0.01), and those taking PrEP had more days with device openings (25% of days vs. 13%, aRR 1.94, 95% CI 1.16-3.25, p = 0.01). Twenty percent of participants reported IPV during follow-up. There were trends towards fewer IPV events (aIRR 0.66, 95% CI 0.27-1.62, p = 0.37) and fewer events resulting in injury (aIRR 0.21, 95% CI 0.04-1.02, p = 0.05) in the intervention versus control arm. CONCLUSIONS Tu'Washindi shows promise in promoting PrEP uptake and adherence among AGYW without concomitant increases in IPV; however, adherence was still suboptimal. Further research is needed to determine whether these gains translate to increases in the proportion of AGYW with protective levels of PrEP adherence and to evaluate the potential for the intervention to reduce IPV risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah T. Roberts
- Women's Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Miriam Hartmann
- Women's Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | | | | | - Erica N. Browne
- Women's Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research and Development OrganizationKisumuKenya
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mathur S, Mahapatra B, Mishra R, Heck CJ, Mbizvo M. Which Intervention Synergies Maximize AGYW's HIV Outcomes? A Classification and Regression Tree Analysis of Layered HIV Prevention Programming. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 94:317-324. [PMID: 37884052 PMCID: PMC10617659 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003289] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intersecting behavioral, social, and structural factors increase adolescent girls' (AG) and young women's (YW) HIV vulnerability. Yet, understanding of optimal intervention synergies remains limited. We identified intervention combinations that statistically maximized reductions in AGYW's HIV-related risk. METHODS Using data collected in 2018 with Zambian AG (n = 487, aged 15-19 years) and YW (n = 505, aged 20-25 years) after 12-14 months exposure to Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe (multisectoral HIV program), we used classification and regression trees to explore relationships between interventions (safe space/social asset building [SAB] and provision of/linkage to youth-friendly health services [YFHS], education social protection [Educ], economic social protection [Econ]) and HIV-related outcomes (HIV testing, consistent condom use, transactional sex, and sexual violence experience from partners and nonpartners). RESULTS Overall, 59.9% completed SAB and 81.5%, 35.4%, and 29.6% received YHFS, Educ, and Econ, respectively. For AG, HIV testing improved (from 73% to 83%) with exposure to all interventions, condom use improved with Econ (from 33% to 46%), transactional sex reduced with SAB + Educ, and sexual violence from partners and nonpartners reduced with Educ and SAB, respectively. For YW, HIV testing increased with Educ (from 77% to 91%), condom use increased with SAB + YFHS (from 36% to 52%), transactional sex reduced with combinations of all interventions, and sexual violence from partners reduced with YFHS and from nonpartners with SAB + Econ. CONCLUSIONS Tailored interventions might be more effective than uniform combination intervention packages in reducing AGYW's HIV risk. AG benefitted most from SAB and/or Educ while YFHS, Educ, and/or SAB reduced YW's HIV-related risk. Educational and asset-building interventions could have the greatest impact on AGYW's HIV risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Raman Mishra
- College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Craig J. Heck
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Harrington EK, Congo O, Kimanthi S, Dollah A, Onono M, Mugo N, Barnabas RV, Bukusi EA, Upadhyay UD. Adaptation of the sexual and reproductive empowerment scale for adolescents and young adults in Kenya. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001978. [PMID: 37883373 PMCID: PMC10602344 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Measuring empowerment is critical to understanding the level of control adolescents and young adults (AYA) have over their sexual and reproductive health (SRH) behaviors, and could provide a key window into addressing their unique SRH needs. We adapted the Sexual and Reproductive Empowerment (SRE) scale for AYA for use in an East African context. This multi-method qualitative study sampled 15-23 year-old female adolescents and young adults in Kisumu, Kenya. We conducted in-depth interviews (n = 30) and analyzed transcripts with an inductive, constant comparison approach. Empowerment domains were integrated with Kabeer's (1999) framework in a conceptual model, which we referenced to revise the original and develop new scale items. Items underwent expert review, and were condensed and translated through team-based consensus-building. We evaluated content validity in cognitive interviews (n = 25), during which item phrasing and word choice were revised to generate an adapted SRE scale. Participants (n = 55) had a median age of 18 (range 16-23), and 75% were under 19 years. We categorize three types of adaptations to the SRE scale: new item generation, item revision, and translation/linguistic considerations. We developed nine new items reflecting AYA's experiences and new domains of empowerment that emerged from the data; new domains relate to self-efficacy in accessing sexual and reproductive health care, and how material needs are met. All items were revised and translated to echo concepts and language relevant to participants, navigating the multilingualism common in many African countries. Centering the voices of female Kenyan AYA, this study provides insight into measuring the latent construct of adolescent sexual and reproductive empowerment in an East African setting, and supports the adapted SRE scale's content validity for Kenya. We detail our multi-method, theory-driven approach, contributing to limited methods guidance for measure adaptation across contexts and among diverse adolescent populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K. Harrington
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ouma Congo
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Syovata Kimanthi
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Maricianah Onono
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ruanne V. Barnabas
- Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ushma D. Upadhyay
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Gottert A, Pulerwitz J, Conserve DF. Providing HIV Self-Tests to Adolescent Girls to Promote Partner and Couples Testing: A Welcome Addition to the HIV Prevention Toolbox (With Caveats). J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:614-615. [PMID: 37716713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ann Gottert
- Population Council, Social and Behavioral Science Research division, Washington, D.C
| | - Julie Pulerwitz
- Population Council, Social and Behavioral Science Research division, Washington, D.C.; Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C
| | - Donaldson F Conserve
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rousseau E, Wu L, Heffron R, Baeten JM, Celum CL, Travill D, Delany-Moretlwe S, Bekker LG, Bukusi E, Omollo V, van der Straten A, O’Malley G, Haberer JE, Morton JF, Johnson RE, Roberts ST. Association of sexual relationship power with PrEP persistence and other sexual health outcomes among adolescent and young women in Kenya and South Africa. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1073103. [PMID: 37325240 PMCID: PMC10266091 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1073103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gendered power inequalities impact adolescent girls' and young women's (AGYW) sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes. We investigated the influence of sexual relationship power on AGYW's SRH outcomes, including HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) persistence. Methods The POWER study in Kisumu, Kenya, and Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa provided PrEP to 2,550 AGYW (aged 16-25). AGYW's perceived power in their primary sexual relationship was measured among the first 596 participants enrolled using the Sexual Relationship Power Scale's (SRPS) relationship control sub-scale. Multivariable regression was used to test for (1) key sociodemographic and relationship characteristics associated with relationship power; and (2) the association of relationship power with SRH outcomes including PrEP persistence. Results In this cohort, the mean SRPS score was 2.56 (0.49), 542 (90.9%) initiated PrEP; 192 (35.4%) persisted with PrEP at 1 month of which 46 (24.0% of 192) persisted at 6 months. SRPS were significantly lower among AGYW who cohabited with their sex partner (-0.14, 95% CI: -0.24 to -0.04, p = 0.01), or had ≥1 sex partner (-0.10, 95% CI: -0.19 to -0.00, p = 0.05). AGYW with lower SRPS were more likely to not know their partner's HIV status (aOR 2.05, 95% CI: 1.27 to 3.33, p < 0.01), but SRPS was not associated with PrEP persistence, STI infection, condom, or hormonal contraception use. Discussion AGYW's reasons for initiating PrEP and reasons for continuously using PrEP may be different. While low relationship power was associated with perceived HIV vulnerability, AGYW's PrEP persistence may be influenced by more than relationship power.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elzette Rousseau
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Linxuan Wu
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Renee Heffron
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Connie L. Celum
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Danielle Travill
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | - Ariane van der Straten
- Department of Medicine, Centre for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Astra Consulting, Kensington, CA, United States
| | - Gabrielle O’Malley
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jessica E. Haberer
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
- Centre for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jennifer F. Morton
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Rachel E. Johnson
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Sarah T. Roberts
- RTI International, Women’s Global Health Imperative (WGHI), Berkeley, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Nicol E, Basera W, Lombard C, Jonas K, Ramraj T, Govindasamy D, Hlongwa M, McClinton-Appollis T, Mehlomakulu V, Naqvi N, Bedford J, Drummond J, Cheyip M, Dladla S, Pass D, Funani N, Mathews C. Strengthening health system's capacity for linkage to HIV care for adolescent girls and young women and adolescent boys and young men in South Africa (SheS'Cap-Linkage): Protocol for a mixed methods study in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0271942. [PMID: 36780479 PMCID: PMC9925067 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) aged 15-24 years and adolescent boys and young men (ABYM) aged 15-34 years represent one of the populations at highest risk for HIV-infection in South Africa. The National Department of Health adopted the universal test and treat (UTT) strategy in 2016, resulting in increases in same-day antiretroviral therapy initiations and linkage to care. Monitoring progress towards attainment of South Africa's 95-95-95 targets amongst AGYW and ABYM relies on high quality data to identify and address gaps in linkage to care. The aim of this study is to describe the current approaches for engaging AGYW and ABYM in the treatment continuum to generate knowledge that can guide efforts to improve linkage to, and retention in, HIV care among these populations in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a mixed methods study, which will be conducted in uMgungundlovu district of KwaZulu-Natal, over a 24-month period, in 22 purposively selected HIV testing and treatment service delivery points (SDPs). For the quantitative component, a sample of 1100 AGYW aged 15-24 years and ABYM aged 15-35 years old will be recruited into the study, in addition to 231 healthcare providers (HCPs) involved in the implementation of the UTT program. The qualitative component will include 30 participating patients who were successfully linked to care, 30 who were not, and 30 who have never tested for HIV. Key informant interviews will also be conducted with 24 HCPs. Logistic regression will be used to model the primary outcomes on SDP types, while a time to event analysis will be conducted using a Cox regression model and adjusting the standard errors of the hazard ratio for the clustering of participants within SDPs. For qualitative data, a general inductive approach of analysis will be used. DISSEMINATION Findings from the study will be communicated to the study population and results will be presented to stakeholders and at appropriate local and international conferences. Outputs will also include a policy brief, peer reviewed journal articles and research capacity building through research degrees.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- 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
- * E-mail:
| | - 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
| | - Carl Lombard
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kim Jonas
- Health System Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Trisha Ramraj
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Darshini Govindasamy
- Health System Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Vuyelwa Mehlomakulu
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nuha Naqvi
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jason Bedford
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Drummond
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mireille Cheyip
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Sibongile Dladla
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Desiree Pass
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Noluntu Funani
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Cathy Mathews
- Health System Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Musinguzi N, Pyra M, Bukusi EA, Mugo NR, Baeten JM, Haberer JE. Trajectories of Oral PrEP Adherence Among Young Kenyan Women: Implications for Promoting Effective PrEP Use. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:171-181. [PMID: 35841463 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03753-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Using data from a 2-year study of young women at high HIV risk in Thika and Kisumu, Kenya, we identified group-based trajectories of PrEP adherence based on electronic pillcap-monitoring and assessed potentially associated demographic and socio-behavioral factors. Among 348 women, we selected a three-trajectory adherence model: low and declining (N = 211, 61%), moderate but declining (N = 119, 34%) and steady high adherers (N = 18, 5%). We also identified a two-trajectory HIV risk model based on self-perceived risk in the past week: high and increasing (N = 28, 8%) and steady low (N = 320, 92%) risk. The Kisumu site was associated with the moderate but declining and steady high adherence trajectories, while increasing VOICE risk score was associated with the low and declining adherence trajectory. We found no association between the adherence and risk trajectories. Our findings suggest adherence support may need tailoring by setting. Early, sustained support may also help those at highest risk of non-adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Musinguzi
- Global Health Collaborative, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Plot 10/24, Lower Circular Road, Mbarara, Uganda.
| | - Maria Pyra
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Center for Clinical Research (CCR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ogello V, Ngure K, Thuo N, Burns B, Rono B, Oware K, Kiptiness C, Mugo N, Bukusi E, Garrison L, Baeten JM, Haberer JE. "Yes, I'm reminded, but it doesn't mean I'm taking them": Experiences with Short Message Service Reminder Use in Real-time Monitoring of HIV PrEP among Young Women in Kenya. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:65-74. [PMID: 35907142 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03744-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Adherence to oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is challenging, and cellular technology offers a promising opportunity for support. However, a recent randomized controlled trial found that SMS reminders did not improve PrEP adherence. We used qualitative methods to explore the trial participants' experiences with the SMS intervention. We conducted serial in-depth interviews with 54 young Kenyan women, using inductive and deductive content analysis . Initially, SMS reminders were highly acceptable. Participants expressed enthusiasm with receiving the reminders because of the coded nature of the SMS reminders; they also helped in 'habit forming' with daily adherence. However, overtime, participants reported growing concerns about privacy, self-efficacy, and responsibility and SMS fatigue. Participants also reported other challenges, including phone loss, poor telephone network, and lack of electricity. Further research to explore if SMS reminders in alternative formats or with different frequency is needed, in addition to identification of alternate adherence support strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vallery Ogello
- Center of Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Nicholas Thuo
- Center of Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bridget Burns
- Department of Urban Studies and Planning, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Bernard Rono
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kevin Oware
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Catherine Kiptiness
- Center of Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Center of Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Lindsey Garrison
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,, Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, United States
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rosen JG, Musheke M, Mulenga D, Namukonda ES, Jani N, Mbizvo MT, Pulerwitz J, Mathur S. Multisectoral, Combination HIV Prevention for Adolescent Girls and Young Women: A Qualitative Study of the DREAMS Implementation Trajectory in Zambia. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022; 10:GHSP-D-22-00089. [PMID: 36316147 PMCID: PMC9622277 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-22-00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify solutions to the implementation challenges with the DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe women) Partnership in Zambia, this study examines the rollout and evolution of the DREAMS Partnership's implementation. METHODS In September-October 2018, implementing partner (IP) staff (n=15) and adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) participating in DREAMS programming (n=32) completed in-depth interviews exploring early rollout and scale-up of DREAMS, experiences with program participation, and shifting service delivery approaches in response to emerging implementation challenges. Inductive and deductive thematic analysis of 47 interviews uncovered salient service delivery facilitators and barriers in the first 2 years of DREAMS implementation, which were subsequently mapped onto the following domains: reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance. RESULTS Key implementation successes identified by IP staff included using standardized recruitment and risk assessment tools across IP organizations, using a mentor model for delivering program content to AGYW, and offering centralized service delivery at venues accessible to AGYW. Implementation challenges identified early in the DREAMS Partnership's lifecycle were rectified through adaptive service delivery strategies. Monthly in-person coordination meetings were established to resolve IP staff jurisdictional disputes over recruitment and target setting. To address high participant attrition, IP staff adopted a cohort approach to sequentially recruit AGYW who enrolled together and provided social support to one another to sustain involvement in DREAMS programming. Prominent barriers to implementation fidelity included challenges recruiting the highest-risk AGYW (e.g., those out of school), limited resources to incentivize participation by young women, and inadequate planning to facilitate absorption of individual DREAMS interventions by the public sector upon project conclusion. CONCLUSIONS Delivering multisectoral HIV prevention programs like DREAMS with fidelity requires a robust implementation infrastructure (e.g., adaptable workplans and harmonized record management systems), early coordination between IP organizations, and sustained financial commitments from donors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G. Rosen
- Population Council, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Correspondence to Joseph Rosen ()
| | | | | | | | - Nrupa Jani
- Social and Behavioral Research, Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Julie Pulerwitz
- Social and Behavioral Research, Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sanyukta Mathur
- Social and Behavioral Research, Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Closson K, Zharima C, Kuchena M, Dietrich JJ, Gadermann A, Ogilvie G, Beksinska M, Kaida A. "I feel like it is asking if he is a stalker … but I also feel like it is asking if he cares": exploring young South African women and men's perceptions of the Sexual Relationship Power Scale. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1368. [PMID: 35842627 PMCID: PMC9288208 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13686-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gender inequity and the subsequent health impacts disproportionately affect communities in the Global South. However, most gender equity measures, such as Pulerwitz’ (2000) Sexual Relationship Power Scale (SRPS), are developed and validated in the Global North and then applied in Global South settings without investigation of context applicability or validity. This study examines the SRPS’ validity evidence, comprehensiveness, and contemporary relevance for young South African women and men. Methods Between 2019 and 2021, 38 cognitive interviews (CIs) were conducted among previous participants of a South African youth cohort study ‘AYAZAZI’ (2015–2017) to explore youth’s perceptions of the SRPS. The SRPS measures women’s perceptions of their partner’s controlling behaviours, and men’s perceptions of their own controlling behaviours. Using CIs, participants responded to a 13-item adaptation of the SRPS for use among South African youth (strongly agree-strongly disagree), and then were asked to think-aloud their reasoning for responses, their understanding and perceived relevance of each item, and made overall suggestions for scale adaptations. An item appraisal coding process was applied, whereby Cognitive Coding assessed the types of cognitive problems youth had with understanding the items, and Question Feature Coding assessed which item features caused problems for participant understandings. Finally, youth recommendations for scale adaptations were summarized. Results Overall, 21 women and 17 men aged 21–30 participated in CIs in Durban and Soweto, South Africa. Cognitive Coding revealed 1. Comprehension issues, and 2. Judgements related to items’ applicability to lived experiences and identities (e.g., being unmarried). Question Feature Coding revealed items’ 1. Lack of clarity or vagueness in wording and 2. Logical problems in assumptions leading to multiple interpretations (e.g., item ‘my partner always need to know where I am’ interpreted as both controlling and caring behaviour). Multiple, overlapping issues revealed how many items failed to “fit” within the present-day living realities of South African youth. Youth recommended several item adaptations and additions, including strength-based items, to existing measures of gender equity and relationship power. Conclusion Given identified issues, several adaptations including revising items to be more inclusive, contemporary, context specific, relational, and strength-based are needed to validly measure gender equity and power dynamics within the relationships of South African youth. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13686-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalysha Closson
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
| | - Campion Zharima
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Centre for Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Michelle Kuchena
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Janan J Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,African Social Sciences Unit of Research and Evaluation (ASSURE), a division of the Wits Health Consortium, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Anne Gadermann
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Gina Ogilvie
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Mags Beksinska
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pulerwitz J, Valenzuela C, Gottert A, Siu G, Shabangu P, Mathur S. "A man without money getting a sexual partner? It doesn't exist in our community": male partners' perspectives on transactional sexual relationships in Uganda and Eswatini. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2022; 24:968-982. [PMID: 33821761 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2021.1904521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Research on transactional sexual relationships has largely focused on women's perspectives. Better understanding the men's views-especially regarding relationships with adolescent girls and young women-can inform HIV prevention efforts. In 2017, 134 in-depth interviews were conducted with the male partners of girls and young women aged 19-47 years, 94 in Uganda and 40 in Eswatini. Respondents were recruited at venues such as bars where men and potential partners meet and through other young women. Most respondents believed that providing money/gifts was the way to establish relationships with women in their communities, a context that some found undesirable. Young women were mainly perceived as actively pursuing transactional sex for material goods, but respondents also described economically impoverished women who were manipulated into relationships. Men described conflict with longer term partners as a driver to seeking younger partners, who were more compliant. Transaction dominates the male partners of adolescent girls and young women's understanding of sexual relationships, and inequitable power dynamics are reinforced by seeking younger partners. However, some respondents' discontent with this dynamic suggests an opportunity for change. HIV prevention programmes should directly address the underlying drivers of transactional relationships (e.g. gender norms) and work with men who question the practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - A Gottert
- Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
| | - G Siu
- Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - P Shabangu
- Institute for Health Measurement-Southern Africa, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - S Mathur
- Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Closson K, Ndungu J, Beksinska M, Ogilvie G, Dietrich JJ, Gadermann A, Gibbs A, Nduna M, Smit J, Gray G, Kaida A. Gender, Power, and Health: Measuring and Assessing Sexual Relationship Power Equity Among Young Sub-Saharan African Women and Men, a Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2022; 23:920-937. [PMID: 33353490 DOI: 10.1177/1524838020979676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Gender inequity, including low sexual relationship power (SRP), is an important determinant of intimate partner violence (IPV) and negative sexual, reproductive, and mental health. Different versions of the Sexual Relationship Power Scale (SRPS) are commonly used within youth studies to examine how gender inequities, including controlling behaviors, in heterosexual relationships impact the lives of young people in sub-Saharan Africa. This review aims to (1) describe definitions and measures of SRP within sub-Saharan African youth studies and (2) review and summarize associations between SRP equity, IPV, and sexual, reproductive, and mental health. After searching Pubmed, Ovid Med, Psych info, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and relevant research forums, 304 papers were identified, of which 29 papers based on 15 distinct studies (published 2004-2019) met our criteria for being youth-specific, conducted in sub-Saharan Africa, and including a quantitative measure of SRP. Details of each SRPS are described, including any adaptations and psychometric properties, as well as associations with IPV, sexual, reproductive, and mental health behaviors and outcomes. Results indicate that there are variations to the SRPS, and a paucity of evidence has detailed the psychometric properties of such measures within sub-Saharan African youth studies. Measures of SRP equity are associated with experiences (among women) and perpetration of (among men) IPV as numerous pathways to HIV risk; however, the evidence remains mixed. In order to address overlapping epidemics of violence against women and HIV, efforts are needed to ensure that measures, including the SRPS, are valid and reliable among highly affected populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalysha Closson
- School of Population and Public Health, 8166The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jane Ndungu
- School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 56723Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- Office of Engagement and Transformation, 56723Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - Mags Beksinska
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), 37708Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Gina Ogilvie
- School of Population and Public Health, 8166The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women's Health Research Institute (WHRI), BC Women's Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Janan J Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, 37707University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anne Gadermann
- School of Population and Public Health, 8166The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- The Human Learning Project, 8166The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrew Gibbs
- 59097South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Rural Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mzikazi Nduna
- Department of Psychology, 37707University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jenni Smit
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), 37708Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Glenda Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, 37707University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- 59097South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, 1763Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mathur S, Mishra R, Mahapatra B, Heck CJ, Okal J. Assessing layered HIV prevention programming: optimizing outcomes for adolescent girls and young women. AIDS 2022; 36:S75-S83. [PMID: 35766577 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess how exposure to multiple, layered interventions predicts HIV-related outcomes among adolescent girls (15-19 years) and young women (20-24 years) in Kenya. DESIGN Survey data from adolescent girls and young women (n = 736) with 14-16 months of engagement with DREAMS, a comprehensive HIV prevention program that provides a range of health education, life skills, social protection, and social and behaviour change interventions. METHODS Nonparametric recursive partitioning technique - classification and regression tree (CART) - to identify the best predictors (DREAMS interventions) for achieving the desired HIV-related outcomes (consistent condom use and no transactional sex or sexual violence). RESULTS Among adolescent girls, schooling support reduced the likelihood of engaging in transactional sex, whereas schooling support and exposure to parenting program reduced the likelihood experiencing sexual violence. Likelihood of consistent condom use increased among adolescent girls with exposure to preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), schooling support, and the violence prevention programming. Among young women, multiple pathways reduced the likelihood of engaging in transactional sex: exposure to the male sexual partner program; exposure to the youth fund program; exposure to the violence prevention program; or exposure/engagement with schooling support, parenting programming, and the youth fund program. For young women, consistent condom use increased with schooling support and male partner engagement. Additionally, engagement in violence prevention program and male partner engagement increased the likelihood of not experiencing sexual violence among young women. CONCLUSION Exposure to a combination of DREAMS interventions predicted outcomes that can reduce HIV risk among AGYW, though the pathways differed by outcome and age group.
Collapse
|
17
|
Saul J, Cooney C, Hosseini PR, Beamon T, Toiv N, Bhatt S, Zaidi I, Birx D. Modeling DREAMS impact: trends in new HIV diagnoses among women attending antenatal care clinics in DREAMS countries. AIDS 2022; 36:S51-S59. [PMID: 35766575 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand the impact of United States President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR's) DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-Free, Mentored, and Safe) Partnership on new HIV diagnoses among women in antenatal care (ANC) settings in 10 African countries from 2015 to 2020. DESIGN We modeled spatiotemporal changes in new HIV diagnoses among women in ANC settings using PEPFAR data. Statistical tests were performed in R to compare differences in new diagnoses rates between DREAMS and non-DREAMS subnational units (SNUs) and to explore predictors of new diagnoses declines within DREAMS SNUs. METHODS We used a predictive geospatial model to forecast the rate of new diagnoses for each time period in a 5 km grid cell (n = 861 SNUs). Linear model analyses were conducted using predictor variables: urbanicity, DREAMS geographic footprint, 'layering' proxy, and community-level male viral load suppression. RESULTS New HIV diagnoses in ANC from 2015 to 2020 declined in nearly all SNUs. 'Always' DREAMS SNUs reported declines of 45% while 'Never' DREAMS SNUs reported a decline of only 37% (F = 8.1, 1 and 829 DF, P < 0.01). Within Always DREAMS SNUs, greater declines were seen in areas with a higher number of minimum services in their DREAMS primary package (t = 2.77, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION New HIV diagnoses among women are declining in both DREAMS and non-DREAMS SNUs; mirroring HIV incidence decreases and reflecting increasing community viral load suppression and voluntary male medical circumcision rates. DREAMS programming may have contributed to accelerated declines of new HIV diagnoses in DREAMS SNUs compared with non-DREAMS SNUs. Increased progress is needed to further reduce the disparities between adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and young men to achieve epidemic control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet Saul
- Department of State, Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Health Diplomacy, Washington DC, USA
| | - Caroline Cooney
- Department of State, Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Health Diplomacy, Washington DC, USA
| | - Parviez R Hosseini
- Department of State, Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Health Diplomacy, Washington DC, USA
| | - Ta'Adhmeeka Beamon
- Department of State, Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Health Diplomacy, Washington DC, USA
| | - Nora Toiv
- Department of State, Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Health Diplomacy, Washington DC, USA
| | - Samir Bhatt
- Imperial College London, School of Public Health, London, UK
| | - Irum Zaidi
- Department of State, Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Health Diplomacy, Washington DC, USA
| | - Deborah Birx
- Department of State, Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Health Diplomacy, Washington DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Navarro-Mantas L, de Lemus S, García-Sánchez E, McGill L, Hansen N, Megías JL. Defining Power and Agency in Gender Relations in El Salvador: Consequences for Intimate Partner Violence and Women's Mental Health. Front Psychol 2022; 13:867945. [PMID: 35519647 PMCID: PMC9063008 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.867945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) affects thousands of women around the world and is prevalent in the Global South. Unequal social structures perpetuate hierarchies and maintain women’s vulnerability to violence. Difficulties women face in accessing education, economic resources, and employment diminish their power in intimate relationships, increasing the likelihood of IPV. These factors can also have a significant effect on women’s mental health. However, some studies show that economic empowerment does not necessarily translate into greater agency for women if they cannot use the resources they earn to pursue whatever goals or values they regard as important in life. Agency is women’s ability to identify their life goals and act upon them through critical evaluation (intrinsic agency) and autonomous decision-making (instrumental agency). In this article, we aim to analyze the relationship between women’s power (educational and economic) and agency and their influence on intimate partner violence and on women’s mental health in the context of El Salvador. Currently, El Salvador has one of the highest percentages of femicide worldwide. We used data from the first national survey on violence against women in El Salvador to determine empowerment indicators and investigated their influence on intimate partner violence and women’s mental health. Results from a representative sample of 1,274 women aged between 15 and 64 years old and, using a structural equation modeling revealed that education was a protective factor against IPV, but economic power appeared to put women at greater risk of IPV. Education was positively related to both intrinsic and instrumental agency, but only instrumental agency was negatively associated with the likelihood of being a victim of IPV. Finally, both intrinsic and instrumental agencies were positively related to women’s mental health. We discuss the importance of identifying specific factors related to women’s power and agency to prevent IPV and mental health problems and to promote more gender equity in the Global South.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Navarro-Mantas
- Mind, Brain and Behaviour Research Centre, University of Granada (CIMCYC-UGR), Granada, Spain
| | - Soledad de Lemus
- Mind, Brain and Behaviour Research Centre, University of Granada (CIMCYC-UGR), Granada, Spain
| | - Efraín García-Sánchez
- Mind, Brain and Behaviour Research Centre, University of Granada (CIMCYC-UGR), Granada, Spain
| | - Lucy McGill
- Department of Social Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Nina Hansen
- Department of Social Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Jesús L Megías
- Mind, Brain and Behaviour Research Centre, University of Granada (CIMCYC-UGR), Granada, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sexual relationship power equity is associated with consistent condom use and fewer experiences of recent violence among women living with HIV in Canada. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:482-493. [PMID: 35499522 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual relationship power (SRP) inequities, including having a controlling partner, have not been widely examined among women living with HIV (WLWH). We measured prevalence, and key outcomes of relationship control among WLWH in Canada. METHODS Baseline data from WLWH (≥16 years), reporting consensual sex in the last month enrolled in a Canadian community-collaborative cohort study in British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, included Pulerwitz's (2000) SRP relationship control sub-scale. Scale scores were dichotomized into medium/low [score=1-2.82] vs. high relationship control [score=2.82-4], high scores=greater SRP equity. Cronbach's alpha assessed scale reliability. Bivariate analyses compared women with high vs. medium/low relationship control. Crude and adjusted multinomial regression examined associations between relationship control and condom use (consistent [ref], inconsistent, never), any sexual, physical and/or emotional violence, and physical and/or sexual violence (never [ref], recent [≤3 months ago], and previous [>3 months ago]). RESULTS Overall, 473 sexually active WLWH (33% of cohort), median age=39 (IQR=33-46), 81% on antiretroviral therapy and 78% with viral loads <50copies/mL were included. The sub-scale demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach's alpha=0.92). WLWH with high relationship control (80%) were more likely (p<0.05) to: be in a relationship; have no children; have greater resilience; and report less socio-structural inequities. In adjusted models, high relationship control was associated with lower odds of: inconsistent vs. consistent condom use (aOR:0.39[95%CI:0.18-0.85]); any recent (aOR:0.14[0.04-0.47]); as well as recent physical and/or sexual (aOR=0.05[0.02,0.17]) but not previous violence (vs. never). DISCUSSION Prioritizing relationship equity and support for WLWH is critical for addressing violence and promoting positive health outcomes.
Collapse
|
20
|
Castor D, Burgess EK, Yende-Zuma N, Heck CJ, Abdool Karim Q. Age-Restriction of a Validated Risk Scoring Tool Better Predicts HIV Acquisition in South African Women: CAPRISA 004. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3300-3310. [PMID: 35419667 PMCID: PMC9474358 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03664-y] [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] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We examined the predictive ability of the VOICE risk screening tool among adolescent girls and young women at heightened HIV risk in urban and peri-urban Kwa-Zulu-Natal, South Africa. Using participant data from CAPRISA 004’s control arm (N = 444), we applied the initial VOICE risk screening score (IRS), a modified risk score (MRS) based on predictive and non-predictive variables in our data, and age-restricted (AIRS and AMRS, respectively). We estimated incidence rates, 95% confidence bounds, sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values and area under the curve (AUC). The sample’s HIV incidence rate was 9.1/100 Person-Years [95% CI 6.9–11.7], resulting from 60 seroconversions (60/660.7 Person-Years). The IRS’ ≥ 8 cutpoint produced moderate discrimination [AUC = 0.66 (0.54–0.74), sensitivity = 63%, specificity = 57%]. Restricting to age < 25 years improved the score’s predictive ability (AIRS: AUC = 0.69, AMRS: AUC = 0.70), owing mainly to male partner having other partners and HSV-2. The risk tool predicted HIV acquisition at a higher cutpoint in this sample than in the initial VOICE analysis. After age-stratification, fewer variables were needed for maintaining score’s predictiveness. In this high incidence setting, risk screening may still improve the efficiency or effectiveness of prevention counseling services. However, PrEP should be offered to all prevention-seeking individuals, regardless of risk ascertainment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Delivette Castor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Nonhlanhla Yende-Zuma
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X7, Congella, Durban, 4013, South Africa
| | - Craig J Heck
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X7, Congella, Durban, 4013, South Africa.
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Haberer JE, Mugo N, Bukusi EA, Ngure K, Kiptinness C, Oware K, Garrison LE, Musinguzi N, Pyra M, Valenzuela S, Thomas KK, Anderson PL, Thirumurthy H, Baeten JM. Understanding Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Adherence in Young Women in Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 89:251-260. [PMID: 35147580 PMCID: PMC8826617 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present detailed analyses of long-term pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use and associated behaviors and perceptions among young Kenyan women. DESIGN Prospective, observational cohort. METHODS The Monitoring PrEP among Young Adult women Study involved 18 to 24-year-old women at high HIV risk initiating PrEP in Kisumu and Thika, Kenya. Visits for PrEP counseling and dispensing, HIV testing, and socio-behavioral data collection occurred at Month 1 and quarterly for 2 years. PrEP adherence was measured with pharmacy refill and real-time electronic monitoring, plus tenofovir diphosphate levels in 15% of participants. HIV risk behavior and perception were assessed by self-report in weekly short message service surveys from Months 6-24. Predictors of adherence were assessed with multivariable logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Three hundred forty-eight women (median age 21, VOICE risk score 7) were followed for 617 person-years. Pharmacy refills steadily declined from 100% (Month 0-1) to 54% (Months 22-24). Average electronically monitored adherence similarly declined from 65% (Month 0-1) to 15% (Months 22-24). Electronically monitored adherence had moderately high concordance with tenofovir diphosphate levels (67%). High average adherence (5+ doses/week) was seen at 385/1898 (20%) participant-visits and associated with low baseline VOICE risk score, >1 current sexual partner, ≤1-hour travel time to clinic, and the Kisumu site. short message service-reported behavior and risk perception were not associated with adherence. Four women acquired HIV (incidence 0.7/100 person-years). CONCLUSIONS PrEP adherence was modest and declined over time. HIV risk was inconsistently associated with adherence; clinic access and site-level factors were also relevant. Relatively low HIV incidence suggests participants may have achieved protection through multiple strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Thika, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Elizabeth Ann Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Thika, Kenya
- Department of Community Heath, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Kevin Oware
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | | | - Maria Pyra
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Susie Valenzuela
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Peter L Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Denver, CO
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine and Center for Health Incentives and Behavioral Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- HIV Clinical Development, Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mathur S, Heck CJ, Kishor Patel S, Okal J, Chipeta E, Mwapasa V, Chimwaza W, Musheke M, Mahapatra B, Pulerwitz J, Pilgrim N. Temporal shifts in HIV-related risk factors among cohorts of adolescent girls and young women enrolled in DREAMS programming: evidence from Kenya, Malawi and Zambia. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e047843. [PMID: 35105561 PMCID: PMC8808410 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess temporal shifts in HIV risk factors among adolescent girls (AG, aged 15-19 years) and young women (YW, aged 20-24 years) in Kenya, Malawi and Zambia. DESIGN Prospective cohorts with two time points (Kenya: 2016/2017, 2018; Malawi: 2017, 2018; Zambia: 2016/2017, 2018) SETTING: Community-based programming. PARTICIPANTS 1247 AG (Kenya: 389, Malawi: 371, Zambia: 487) and 1628 YW (Kenya: 347, Malawi: 883, Zambia: 398) INTERVENTION: Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored and Safe (DREAMS), a multisectoral approach to reduce AGYW's HIV vulnerability by delivering a package of tailored, multilayered activities and services.Primary and secondary outcome measures: HIV testing, sexually transmitted infection (STI) symptom experience, number of sexual partners, condom use (consistently, at last sex), transactional sex, experience of physical violence (from intimate partners) and sexual violence (from intimate partners and strangers/non-partners). RESULTS Changes in HIV-related risk behaviours among DREAMS participants varied by age group and country. Among AG, HIV testing increased (Kenya and Zambia) and sexual violence from partners (in Kenya and Malawi) and non-partners (in Malawi) decreased. Among YW, HIV testing increased and STI experience decreased in Malawi; consistent condom use decreased in Kenya; transactional sex increased in Kenya and Zambia; and physical violence (in Malawi) and sexual violence from partners (in Kenya and Malawi) and non-partners (all three countries) decreased over time. CONCLUSIONS Improvements in HIV testing and reductions in experiences of sexual violence were coupled with variable shifts in HIV-related risk behaviours among DREAMS participants in Kenya, Malawi and Zambia. Additional consideration of AGYW's risk circumstances during key life transitions may be needed to address the risk heterogeneity among AG and YW across different contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jerry Okal
- Population Council Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Effie Chipeta
- Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
| | - Victor Mwapasa
- Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
| | - Wanangwa Chimwaza
- Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Heck CJ, Mathur S, Alwang’a H, Daniel OM, Obanda R, Owiti M, Okal J. Oral PrEP Consultations Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Kisumu County, Kenya: Insights from the DREAMS Program. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2516-2530. [PMID: 35099640 PMCID: PMC9252953 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03590-z] [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] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Although Kenya nationally scaled up oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in May 2017, adolescent girls' (AG, aged 15-19 years) and young women's (YW, aged 20-24 years) PrEP use remains suboptimal. Thus, we analyzed PrEP consultations-interactions with a healthcare provider about PrEP-among Kenyan AGYW. In April-June 2018, AGYW enrolled in DREAMS in Kisumu County, Kenya self-reported their HIV-related knowledge, behaviors, and service use. Among HIV negative, sexually active AG (n = 154) and YW (n = 289), we examined associations between PrEP eligibility and PrEP consultations using prevalence ratios (PR, adjusted: aPR). Most AG (90.26%) and YW (94.12%) were PrEP-eligible due to inconsistent/no condom use, violence survivorship, or recent sexually transmitted infection symptoms. Between PrEP-eligible AG and YW, more YW were ever-orphaned (58.09%), ever-married (54.41%), ever-pregnant (80.88%), and out of school (78.31%); more PrEP-eligible YW reported PrEP consultations (41.18% vs. 24.46%, aPR = 1.51 [1.01-2.27]). AG who used PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) reported more consultations (aPR = 5.63 [3.53-8.97]). Among YW, transactional sex engagers reported more consultations (58.62% vs. 39.09%, PR = 1.50 [1.06-2.12]), but only PEP use (aPR = 2.81 [2.30-3.43]) and multiple partnerships (aPR = 1.39 [1.06-1.82]) were independently associated with consultations. Consultations were lowest among those with 1 eligibility criterion (AG = 11.11%/YW = 27.18%). Comparatively, consultations were higher among AG and YW with 2 (aPR = 3.71 [1.64-8.39], PR = 1.60 [1.07-2.38], respectively) or ≥ 3 (aPR = 2.51 [1.09-5.78], PR = 2.05 [1.42-2.97], respectively) eligibility criteria. Though most AGYW were PrEP-eligible, PrEP consultations were rare and differed by age and vulnerability. In high-incidence settings, PrEP consultations should be conducted with all AGYW. PrEP provision guidelines must be re-assessed to accelerate AGYW's PrEP access.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Craig J. Heck
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Nicol E, Ramraj T, Hlongwa M, Basera W, Jama N, Lombard C, McClinton-Appollis T, Govindasamy D, Pass D, Funani N, Aheron S, Paredes-Vincent A, Drummond J, Cheyip M, Dladla S, Bedford J, Mathews C. Strengthening health system's capacity for pre-exposure prophylaxis for adolescent girls and young women and adolescent boys and young men in South Africa (SHeS'Cap-PrEP): Protocol for a mixed methods study in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264808. [PMID: 35298487 PMCID: PMC8929690 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective prevention intervention that can be used to control HIV incidence especially among people who are at increased risk for HIV such as adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and adolescent boys and young men (ABYM). In South Africa, various approaches of delivering PrEP have been adopted at different service delivery points (facility-based only, school-based only, community-based only and hybrid school-facility and community-facility models) to overcome challenges associated with individual, structural, and health systems related barriers that may hinder access to and uptake of PrEP among these populations. However, little is known about how to optimize PrEP implementation and operational strategies to achieve high sustained uptake of good quality services for AGYW and ABYM. This study aims to identify effective and feasible PrEP models of care for improving PrEP uptake, continuation, and adherence among AGYW and ABYM. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A sequential explanatory mixed-methods study will be conducted in 22 service delivery points (SDPs) in uMgungundlovu district, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. We will recruit 600 HIV negative, sexually active, high risk, AGYW (aged 15-24 years) and ABYM (aged 15-35 years). Enrolled participants will be followed up at 1-, 4- and 7-months to determine continuation and adherence to PrEP. We will conduct two focus group discussions (with 8 participants in each group) across four groups (i. Initiated PrEP within 1 month, ii. Did not initiate PrEP within 1 month, iii. Continued PrEP at 4/7 months and iv. Did not continue PrEP at 4/7 months) and 48 in-depth interviews from each of the four groups (12 per group). Twelve key informant interviews with stakeholders working in HIV programs will also be conducted. Associations between demographic characteristics stratified by PrEP initiation and by various service-delivery models will be assessed using Chi-square/Fishers exact tests or t-test/Mann Whitney test. A general inductive approach will be used to analyze the qualitative data. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The protocol was approved by the South African Medical Research Council Health Research Ethics Committee (EC051-11/2020). Findings from the study will be communicated to the study population and results will be presented to stakeholders and at appropriate local and international conferences. Outputs will also include a policy brief, peer-reviewed journal articles and research capacity building through research degrees.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- 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
- * E-mail:
| | - Trisha Ramraj
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 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
| | - Ngcwalisa Jama
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Carl Lombard
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Darshini Govindasamy
- Health System Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Desiree Pass
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Noluntu Funani
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sarah Aheron
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | | | - Mireille Cheyip
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Sibongile Dladla
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jason Bedford
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Cathy Mathews
- Health System Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Vizheh M, Muhidin S, Behboodi Moghadam Z, Zareiyan A. Women empowerment in reproductive health: a systematic review of measurement properties. BMC Womens Health 2021; 21:424. [PMID: 34930243 PMCID: PMC8690621 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-021-01566-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is a considerable dearth of official metrics for women empowerment, which is pivotal to observe universal progress towards Sustainable Development Goals 5, targeting "achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls." This study aimed to introduce, critically appraise, and summarize the measurement properties of women empowerment scales in sexual and reproductive health. METHODS A comprehensive systematic literature search through several international electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, ProQuest, and Science Direct was performed on September 2020, without a time limit. All studies aimed to develop and validate a measurement of women empowerment in sexual and reproductive health were included. The quality assessment was performed through a rating scale addressing the six criteria, including: a priori explicit theoretical framework, evaluating content validity, internal consistency, and factor analysis to assess structural validity. RESULTS Of 5234 identified studies, fifteen were included. The majority of the studies were conducted in the United States. All studies but one used a standardized measure. Total items of each scale ranged from 8 to 23. The most common domains investigated were decision-making, freedom of coercion, and communication with the partner. Four studies did not use any conceptual framework. The individual agency followed by immediate relational agency were the main focus of included studies. Of the included studies, seven applied either literature review, expert panels, or empirical methods to develop the item pool. Cronbach's alpha coefficient reported in nine studies ranged from α = 0.56 to 0.87. Most of the studies but three lack reporting test-retest reliability ranging r = 0.69-0.87. Nine studies proved content validity. Six criteria were applied to scoring the scales, by which nine of fifteen articles were rated as medium quality, two rated as poor quality, and four rated as high quality. CONCLUSION Most scales assessed various types of validity and Internal consistency for the reliability. Applying a theoretical framework, more rigorous validation of scales, and assessing the various dimensions of women empowerment in diverse contexts and different levels, namely structural agency, are needed to develop effective and representing scales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Vizheh
- Department of Reproductive Health and Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Management, Macquarie Business School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109 Australia
| | - Salut Muhidin
- Department of Management, Macquarie Business School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109 Australia
| | - Zahra Behboodi Moghadam
- Department of Reproductive Health and Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Armin Zareiyan
- Public Health Department, Health in Disaster & Emergencies Department, Nursing Faculty, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Harrington EK, Casmir E, Kithao P, Kinuthia J, John-Stewart G, Drake AL, Unger JA, Ngure K. "Spoiled" girls: Understanding social influences on adolescent contraceptive decision-making in Kenya. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255954. [PMID: 34383836 PMCID: PMC8360567 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite significant public health emphasis on unintended pregnancy prevention among adolescent girls and young women in Sub-Saharan Africa, there is a gap in understanding how adolescents' own reproductive priorities and the social influences on their decision-making align and compete. We examined the social context of contraceptive decision-making among Kenyan female adolescents. METHODS Using community-based sampling, we conducted 40 in-depth interviews and 6 focus group discussions among sexually-active or partnered adolescent girls and young women aged 15-19 in the Nyanza region of Kenya. We analyzed the data in Dedoose using an inductive, grounded theory approach, and developed a conceptual model from the data illustrating social influences on adolescent contraceptive decision-making. RESULTS Participants viewed adolescent pregnancy as unacceptable, and described severe social, financial, and health consequences of unintended pregnancy, including abortion under unsafe conditions. Yet, their contraceptive behaviors often did not reflect their desire to delay pregnancy. Contraceptive decision-making was influenced by multiple social factors, centering on the intersecting stigmas of adolescent female sexuality, pregnancy, and contraceptive use, as well as unequal power in sexual relationships. To prioritize pregnancy prevention, adolescents must navigate conflicting social norms and power dynamics, and put their perceived future fertility at risk. CONCLUSIONS Contraceptive decision-making among Kenyan female adolescents is strongly influenced by opposing social norms within families, communities, and sexual relationships, which compel them to risk stigma whether they use a contraceptive method or become pregnant as adolescents. These findings put into perspective adolescents' seemingly incongruent pregnancy preferences and contraceptive behaviors. Interventions to address adolescent unintended pregnancy should focus on supporting adolescent decision-making agency, addressing fertility-related contraceptive concerns, and promoting innovative contraceptive access points rather than increasing contraceptive prevalence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K. Harrington
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Edinah Casmir
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Clinical Research, Thika, Kenya
| | - Peninah Kithao
- Department of Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Kinuthia
- Department of Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Alison L. Drake
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Jennifer A. Unger
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bermudez LG, Mulenga D, Musheke M, Mathur S. Intersections of financial agency, gender dynamics, and HIV risk: A qualitative study with adolescent girls and young women in Zambia. Glob Public Health 2021; 17:1638-1651. [PMID: 34255608 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1951800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Recent research demonstrates that economic interventions may positively effect HIV risk among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa. Some evidence reveals potential associations between financial decision-making and bargaining power in sexual relationships. However, this evidence is mixed, nuanced, and limited. This paper explores how AGYW in Zambia understand financial agency and its effect on intimate relationships. Methods: In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 30 females aged 15-24 years residing in Kalingalinga, a low income, high-density residential area in Lusaka. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Results: Participants spoke of the ability to earn and spend money as reality for some and aspirational for many others, intrinsic to cultural and religious caveats influencing perceptions of agency for women. The transfer of financial independence to sexual agency within relationships was viewed as a mechanism for HIV risk reduction; however, male sexual privilege was an obstacle irrespective of financial decision-making. Conclusions: Programmes aiming to enhance financial agency for AGYW have the potential to reduce HIV sexual risk. Yet, to be most effective, integration with gender-transformative programmes is needed to address norms of male dominance that keep AGYW in positions of vulnerability.
Collapse
|
28
|
Wood SN, Karp C, Tsui A, Kibira SPS, Desta S, Galadanci H, Makumbi F, Omoluabi E, Shiferaw S, Seme A, Moreau C. A sexual and reproductive empowerment framework to explore volitional sex in sub-Saharan Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2021; 23:804-821. [PMID: 32242473 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2020.1733667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Volitional sex is central to the sexual health and well-being of women and girls globally. To date, few studies have examined women's empowerment and its application to sexual health outcomes, including volitional sex. The aim of this study was to explore the relevance of a sexual and reproductive empowerment framework to volitional sex across four geographically and culturally diverse contexts in sub-Saharan Africa. Qualitative data were collected between July and August 2017 in four sites: Ethiopia, Nigeria (Anambra and Kano states) and Uganda. A total of 352 women aged 15-49 and 88 men aged 18 and older were interviewed through 120 in-depth interviews and 38 focus group discussions (n = 440 total participants). Results describe the substantial barriers restraining women's sexual choices, particularly norms that stigmatise women's requests for sex, even within marriage. Results further highlight women's internal sexual motivations, particularly related to the enjoyment of sex and the role of sex in strengthening partner relationships. Future empowerment research and measurement should focus not only on sexual constraints, but also integrate internal motivations, in order to fully understand the factors that shape women's sexual health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon N Wood
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Celia Karp
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Amy Tsui
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Simon Peter Sebina Kibira
- Department of Community Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Selamawit Desta
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Hadiza Galadanci
- Center for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Fredrick Makumbi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elizabeth Omoluabi
- Centre for Research Evaluation Resources and Development, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Solomon Shiferaw
- Department of Reproductive Health and Health Service Management, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Assefa Seme
- Department of Reproductive Health and Health Service Management, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Caroline Moreau
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
- Gender, Sexual and Reproductive Health, CESP Centre for Research in Epidemiology and Population Health, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ramos SR, Lardier DT, Boyd DT, Gutierrez JI, Carasso E, Houng D, Kershaw T. Profiles of HIV Risk, Sexual Power, and Decision-Making among Sexual Minority Men of Color Who Engage in Transactional Sex: A Latent Profile Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4961. [PMID: 34066948 PMCID: PMC8125585 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Though the transmission of HIV is preventable, there were still 37,968 new documented cases in the United States in 2018. HIV incidence is disproportionate in sexual minority men of color. The purpose of this study was to examine sexual relationship power risk profiles to identify distinct subgroups within the profiles who carry the highest HIV risk. Latent class profile analysis was used to identify subgroups of sexual minority men of color at the highest risk for contracting HIV based on their sexual power profiles. Among 322 sexual minority men, we identified four latent profiles. Profile 1: Low transactional sex and high power (n = 133; 14.3%); Profile 2: Transactional sex, high decision-making in sexual relationships, and low control in sexual relationship (n = 99; 30.7%); Profile 3: Low transactional sex, low decision-making, and moderate control (n = 43; 13.4%); Profile 4: High transactional sex and low power (n = 47; 14.6%). LPA was useful to identify distinct subgroups based on measures of sexual risk and relationship sexual power. Findings carry significant implications for developing tailored strategies to increase HIV knowledge and related HIV prevention and risk reduction services for sexual minority men of color who engage in transactional sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S. Raquel Ramos
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY 10016, USA; (E.C.); (D.H.)
| | - David T. Lardier
- Department of Individual, Family, and Community Studies, College of Education and Human Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Donte T. Boyd
- College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - José I. Gutierrez
- National Clinician Scholar, Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA;
| | - Eliana Carasso
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY 10016, USA; (E.C.); (D.H.)
| | - David Houng
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY 10016, USA; (E.C.); (D.H.)
| | - Trace Kershaw
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hartmann M, Otticha S, Agot K, Minnis AM, Montgomery ET, Roberts ST. Tu'Washindi na PrEP: Working With Young Women and Service Providers to Design an Intervention for PrEP Uptake and Adherence in the Context of Gender-Based Violence. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2021; 33:103-119. [PMID: 33821679 PMCID: PMC8384060 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2021.33.2.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) reduces HIV acquisition among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). Existing evidence suggests that uptake and adherence are low among AGYW and that relationship factors such as gender-based violence (GBV) are important barriers. Through a community-based participatory research (CBPR) process, a youth advisory board (YAB), service providers (SP), and a study team developed the Tu'Washindi na PrEP intervention to support AGYW PrEP use in the context of GBV. The YAB also guided the formative research and interpretation of results. The authors pretested the intervention with SP, AGYW and their partners, and community change agents, and then developed guides for AGYW support clubs, community-based male sensitization sessions, and couples-based events that included formulation of story lines for dramatized PrEP negotiation and information dissemination skills. Stakeholder engagement led to an intervention responsive to AGYW's needs for PrEP support in the context of their relationships, which was evaluated through a 6-month pilot community randomized controlled trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Hartmann
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California
| | | | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Alexandra M Minnis
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California
| | | | - Sarah T Roberts
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Colombini M, Scorgie F, Stangl A, Harvey S, Ramskin L, Khoza N, Mashauri E, Baron D, Lees S, Kapiga S, Watts C, Delany-Moretlwe S. Exploring the feasibility and acceptability of integrating screening for gender-based violence into HIV counselling and testing for adolescent girls and young women in Tanzania and South Africa. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:433. [PMID: 33658000 PMCID: PMC7927237 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10454-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender-based violence (GBV) undermines HIV prevention and treatment cascades, particularly among women who report partner violence. Screening for violence during HIV testing, and prior to offering pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to HIV uninfected women, provides an opportunity to identify those at heightened HIV risk and greater potential for non-adherence or early discontinuation of PrEP. The paper describes our experience with offering integrated GBV screening and referral as part of HIV counselling and testing. This component was implemented within EMPOWER, a demonstration project offering combination HIV prevention, including daily oral PrEP, to young women in South Africa and Tanzania. METHODS Between February 2017 and March 2018, a process evaluation was conducted to explore views, experiences and practices of stakeholders (study participants and study clinical staff) during implementation of the GBV screening component. This article assesses the feasibility and acceptability of the approach from multiple stakeholder perspectives, drawing on counselling session observations (n = 10), in-depth interviews with participants aged 16-24 (n = 39) and clinical staff (n = 13), and notes from debriefings with counsellors. Study process data were also collected (e.g. number of women screened and referred). Following a thematic inductive approach, qualitative data were analysed using qualitative software (NVivo 11). RESULTS Findings show that 31% of young women screened positive for GBV and only 10% requested referrals. Overall, study participants accessing PrEP were amenable to being asked about violence during HIV risk assessment, as this offered the opportunity to find emotional relief and seek help, although a few found this traumatic. In both sites, the sensitive and empathetic approach of the staff helped mitigate distress of GBV disclosure. In general, the delivery of GBV screening in HCT proved to be feasible, provided that the basic principles of confidentiality, staff empathy, and absence of judgment were observed. However, uptake of linkage to further care remained low in both sites. CONCLUSION Most stakeholders found GBV screening acceptable and feasible. Key principles that should be in place for young women to be asked safely about GBV during HIV counselling and testing included respect for confidentiality, a youth-friendly and non-judgmental environment, and a functioning referral network.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Colombini
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XDepartment of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH UK
| | - Fiona Scorgie
- grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135Wits Reproductive Health Institute, Witwatersrand University, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anne Stangl
- grid.419324.90000 0004 0508 0388International Center for Research on Women, Washington, DC USA
| | - Sheila Harvey
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XDepartment of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH UK
- grid.452630.60000 0004 8021 6070Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Lethabo Ramskin
- grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135Wits Reproductive Health Institute, Witwatersrand University, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nomhle Khoza
- grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135Wits Reproductive Health Institute, Witwatersrand University, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Emma Mashauri
- grid.452630.60000 0004 8021 6070Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Deborah Baron
- grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135Wits Reproductive Health Institute, Witwatersrand University, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Shelley Lees
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XDepartment of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH UK
| | - Saidi Kapiga
- grid.452630.60000 0004 8021 6070Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XDepartment of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Watts
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XDepartment of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH UK
| | - Sinead Delany-Moretlwe
- grid.11951.3d0000 0004 1937 1135Wits Reproductive Health Institute, Witwatersrand University, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Haberer JE, Bukusi EA, Mugo NR, Pyra M, Kiptinness C, Oware K, Garrison LE, Thomas KK, Musinguzi N, Morrison S, Anderson PL, Ngure K, Baeten JM. Effect of SMS reminders on PrEP adherence in young Kenyan women (MPYA study): a randomised controlled trial. Lancet HIV 2021; 8:e130-e137. [PMID: 33662265 PMCID: PMC8289198 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(20)30307-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective for preventing HIV acquisition. However, adherence among young women (aged 18-24 years) has been challenging. SMS reminders have been shown to improve adherence to antiretroviral therapy in some contexts, including in combination with real-time adherence monitoring. We aimed to determine the effect of SMS reminders on PrEP adherence among young women in Kenya over a 2-year period. METHODS The monitoring PrEP among young adult women (MPYA) study was an open label randomised controlled trial involving young adult women at high risk of HIV in Thika and Kisumu, Kenya. Participants were recruited from colleges, vocational institutions, informal settlements, and community-based organisations supporting young women. Women had to be aged 18-24 years and at high risk of HIV acquisition (defined as a VOICE risk score of 5 or higher, or being in a serodiscordant relationship). Study staff randomly assigned participants (1:1) to receive either SMS reminders (SMS reminder group) or no reminders (no SMS reminder group). Study group assignment was known to trial staff but masked to investigators. Reminders were initially sent daily and participants could switch to as-needed reminders (ie, sent only if they missed opening the monitor as expected) after 1 month. Study visits occurred at 1 month, 3 months, and then quarterly (ie, every 3 months). The primary outcome was PrEP adherence over 24 months measured with a real-time electronic monitor and assessed by negative binomial models adjusted for the study site and quarter among participants who collected PrEP. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02915367. FINDINGS Of 642 women initially approached, 348 eligible women were enrolled between Dec 21, 2016, and Feb 5, 2018. Participants were randomly assigned to either the SMS reminder group (n=173) or the no SMS reminder group (n=175). The median age was 21 years (IQR 19-22) and 228 (66%) of the 348 participants reported condomless sex in the month before baseline. 24 (14%) of the 173 participants assigned to receive daily SMS reminders later opted for as-needed reminders. 69 291 (97%) of 71 791 SMS reminders were sent as planned. Among participants collecting PrEP (thus potentially suggesting a desire for HIV protection), electronically monitored adherence averaged 26·8% over 24 months and was similar by study group (27·0% with SMS, 26·6% without SMS, adjusted incidence rate ratio 1·16 [95% CI 0·93-1·45], p=0·19). There were no serious adverse events related to trial participation; five social harms occurred in each study group, primarily related to PrEP use. INTERPRETATION SMS reminders were ineffective in promoting PrEP adherence among young Kenyan women. Given the overall low adherence in the trial, additional interventions are needed to support PrEP use in this population. FUNDING US National Institute of Mental Health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Thika, Kenya
| | - Maria Pyra
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Kevin Oware
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Lindsey E Garrison
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Susan Morrison
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter L Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Thika, Kenya; Department of Community Heath, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine and Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Gilead Sciences, Redwood City, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Casmir E, Daniel AK, Ongolly F, Thuo N, Oluoch L, Kiptinness C, Wald A, Mugo NR, Roxby AC, Ngure K. Protection at First Sexual Intercourse Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Kenya. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:219-227. [PMID: 32720186 PMCID: PMC8024200 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01785-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are at high risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including at first sexual intercourse. The literature is scarce on factors influencing use of protective strategies at this critical time. We conducted 20 in-depth interviews and five focus group discussions with purposively sampled AGYW aged 16-20 years who reported first sex while enrolled in a larger cohort study and willing to participate. All AGYW were counseled on HIV prevention and had access to reproductive health information and services. Data collected were transcribed, translated and analyzed thematically. We identified two approaches to first sex. In one approach, the AGYW facilitated protection use, and those AGYW reported intention and preparation to initiate sexual activity and ability to request condom use, as well as their male partner's willingness to use and provide condoms. In another approach, AGYW experienced first sexual intercourse without agency (the feeling of control over actions and their consequences [Moore, 2016]) and described lack of prior intentions and planning, discomfort with discussions about sex and condom use, and desire to experience sexual pleasure as reported by peers. No AGYW mentioned parents/adults as playing any role as facilitators of protection use at first sex, highlighting the need for further research on the missing gap. The AGYW were trusting of verbal reports by male partners describing themselves as having never engaged in sex, HIV negative, and free of STIs. We found that some AGYW were empowered to plan, discuss, and request protection at first sex, and others did not take agency. First sex is a time of vulnerability where innovative strategies are needed to strengthen AGYW's agency and promote condom use and other HIV/STI prevention methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edinah Casmir
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, KNH, Nairobi, 19865-0020, Kenya.
| | | | - Fernandos Ongolly
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, KNH, Nairobi, 19865-0020, Kenya
| | - Nicholas Thuo
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, KNH, Nairobi, 19865-0020, Kenya
| | - Lynda Oluoch
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, KNH, Nairobi, 19865-0020, Kenya
| | - Catherine Kiptinness
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, KNH, Nairobi, 19865-0020, Kenya
| | - Anna Wald
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nelly Rwamba Mugo
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, KNH, Nairobi, 19865-0020, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alison C Roxby
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Juja, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Gourlay A, Birdthistle I, Mthiyane NT, Orindi BO, Muuo S, Kwaro D, Shahmanesh M, Baisley K, Ziraba A, Floyd S. Awareness and uptake of layered HIV prevention programming for young women: analysis of population-based surveys in three DREAMS settings in Kenya and South Africa. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1417. [PMID: 31666043 PMCID: PMC6824290 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7766-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The DREAMS Partnership is an ambitious effort to deliver combinations of biomedical, behavioural and structural interventions to reduce HIV incidence among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). To inform multi-sectoral programming at scale, across diverse settings in Kenya and South Africa, we identified who the programme is reaching, with which interventions and in what combinations. Methods Randomly-selected cohorts of 606 AGYW aged 10–14 years and 1081 aged 15–22 years in Nairobi and 2184 AGYW aged 13–22 years in uMkhanyakude, KwaZulu-Natal, were enrolled in 2017, after ~ 1 year of DREAMS implementation. In Gem, western Kenya, population-wide cross-sectional survey data were collected during roll-out in 2016 (n = 1365 AGYW 15–22 years). We summarised awareness and invitation to participate in DREAMS, uptake of interventions categorised by the DREAMS core package, and uptake of a subset of ‘primary’ interventions. We stratified by age-group and setting, and compared across AGYW characteristics. Results Awareness of DREAMS was higher among younger women (Nairobi: 89%v78%, aged 15-17v18–22 years; uMkhanyakude: 56%v31%, aged 13-17v18–22; and Gem: 28%v25%, aged 15-17v18–22, respectively). HIV testing was the most accessed intervention in Nairobi and Gem (77% and 85%, respectively), and school-based HIV prevention in uMkhanyakude (60%). Among those invited, participation in social asset building was > 50%; > 60% accessed ≥2 core package categories, but few accessed all primary interventions intended for their age-group. Parenting programmes and community mobilisation, including those intended for male partners, were accessed infrequently. In Nairobi and uMkhanyakude, AGYW were more likely to be invited to participate and accessed more categories if they were: aged < 18 years, in school and experienced socio-economic vulnerabilities. Those who had had sex, or a pregnancy, were less likely to be invited to participate but accessed more categories. Conclusions In representative population-based samples, awareness and uptake of DREAMS were high after 1 year of implementation. Evidence of ‘layering’ (receiving multiple interventions from the DREAMS core package), particularly among more socio-economically vulnerable AGYW, indicate that intervention packages can be implemented at scale, for intended recipients, in real-world contexts. Challenges remain for higher coverage and greater ‘layering’, including among older, out-of-school AGYW, and community-based programmes for families and men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annabelle Gourlay
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - Isolde Birdthistle
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | | | | | - Sheru Muuo
- Africa Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Kwaro
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kathy Baisley
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.,Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Abdhalah Ziraba
- Africa Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sian Floyd
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Closson K, Dietrich JJ, Beksinska M, Gibbs A, Hornschuh S, Smith T, Smit J, Gray G, Ndung’u T, Brockman M, Kaida A. Measuring sexual relationship power equity among young women and young men South Africa: Implications for gender-transformative programming. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221554. [PMID: 31553723 PMCID: PMC6760831 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Measures used to assess equitable relationship dynamics, including the sexual relationship power scale (SRPS) have previously been associated with lower HIV-risk among young women, and reduced perpetration of intimate partner violence among men. However, few studies describe how the SRPS has been adapted and validated for use within global youth sexual health studies. We examined gender-specific psychometric properties, reliability, and validity of a SRPS used within a South African youth-engaged cohort study. METHODS Young men and women (16-24 years) enrolled in community-based cohorts in Durban and Soweto (2014-2016) reporting a primary partner at 6-month follow-up completed a 13-item (strongly agree/agree/disagree/strongly disagree) South African adaptation of Pulerwitz's SRPS (range 13-52, higher scores indicating greater sexual relationship power [SRP] equity). SRPS modifications were made using gender-specific exploratory factor analyses (EFAs), removing items with factor loadings <0.3. Cronbach alphas were conducted for full and modified scales by gender. Using modified scales, unadjusted and adjusted regression models examined associations between 1. relevant socio-demographic and relationship determinants and SRP equity, and 2. SRP equity and sexual relationship related outcomes. All models adjusted for education, age, site, and current employment. RESULTS 235 sexually-active youth (66% women, median age = 20) were included. Mean scores across all 13 scale items were 2.71 (SD 0.30) for women and 2.70 (SD 0.4) for men. Scale Cronbach's alphas were 0.63 for women and 0.64 for men. EFAs resulted in two gender-specific single-factor SRPS. Modified SRPS Cronbach alphas increased to 0.67 for women (8-items) and 0.70 for men (9-items). After adjusting for age, site and current employment, higher education remained associated with SRP equity across genders. In adjusted models, correlates of SRP equity included primary partnerships that were age-similar (<5 years older) and <2 years in length for women and living in Soweto and younger age for men. Greater SRP equity among women was also independently associated with no recent partner violence. CONCLUSIONS Results highlight important gender differences in SRP equity measures and associations, highlighting the critically need for future research to examine gendered constructions of SRP equity in order to accurately develop, validate and use appropriate measures within quantitative surveys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalysha Closson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Janan J. Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mags Beksinska
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health (MatCH) Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Andrew Gibbs
- South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stefanie Hornschuh
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tricia Smith
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jenni Smit
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health (MatCH) Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Glenda Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thumbi Ndung’u
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme and Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA United States of America
- Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mark Brockman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Lardier DT, Opara I, Herrera A, Henry M, Garcia-Reid P, Reid RJ. Sexual negotiation skills and risky behavior on sexual partnerships, HIV knowledge, and risk perception among urban youth of color: A latent class analysis. JOURNAL OF HIV/AIDS & SOCIAL SERVICES 2019; 18:248-264. [PMID: 33223972 PMCID: PMC7678237 DOI: 10.1080/15381501.2019.1632237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents of color in urban communities are at high risk for contracting HIV, unlikely to have access to HIV testing services, or any other form of screening services. Using latent class analysis among a sample of African American/Black (48.1%) and Hispanic/Latina(o) (42%) youth (N = 668; M age = 16.30; 51% female), this study examined the association cluster group membership, based on sexual negotiation skills and risk behavior, had on HIV knowledge, perception of risk, and the number of sexual partners. Five distinct cluster groups emerged, with significant heterogeneity observed between cluster groups on select dependent variables. A larger proportion of the study participants were in cluster groups that identified higher levels of sexual negotiation skills; however, variation was present based on risk behaviors. Results provide useful recommendations for research on HIV/AIDS and risk behaviors, as well prevention-intervention programing among urban youth of color.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David T. Lardier
- Individual, Family, and Community Education, Family and Child Studies Program, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Ijeoma Opara
- School of Social Welfare, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Andriana Herrera
- Family Science and Human Development, Montclair State University, Montclair, NY, USA
| | - Melissa Henry
- Individual, Family, and Community Education, Family and Child Studies Program, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Pauline Garcia-Reid
- Family Science and Human Development, Montclair State University, Montclair, NY, USA
| | - Robert J. Reid
- Family Science and Human Development, Montclair State University, Montclair, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Mojola SA, Wamoyi J. Contextual drivers of HIV risk among young African women. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 4:e25302. [PMID: 31328409 PMCID: PMC6643074 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Significant progress has been made in the African HIV pandemic; however, the pace of incidence decline has slowed or stalled in many East and Southern African countries, especially among young women. This stall is worrying because many countries have burgeoning youth populations. There is an important window of opportunity to halt the epidemic as well as the potential for millions more infections if primary prevention efforts are not strengthened. DISCUSSION Many hyper-endemic settings have been exposed to numerous interventions; however, HIV incidence among young women has remained high. In this paper, we characterize the intervention context and examine how it can be strategically utilized to maximize HIV prevention interventions among young women. We begin by examining how contextual dynamics drive HIV risk. We illustrate how epidemiological contexts, gendered normative and economic contexts, and environmental contexts work synergistically to make young women especially vulnerable to HIV infection. We then examine how these contexts can undermine HIV prevention interventions. Finally, we discuss the importance of fully mapping out the intervention context to enhance the effectiveness of HIV prevention interventions. CONCLUSIONS Understanding an intervention context, and how its features work together to amplify young women's risk in hyper-endemic settings can contribute to sustained momentum in reducing HIV incidence among young women and help to limit the reach of the HIV pandemic into new generations of Africans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanyu A Mojola
- Department of Sociology and Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International AffairsPrinceton UniversityPrincetonNJUSA
| | - Joyce Wamoyi
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive HealthNational Medical Research InstituteMwanzaTanzania
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Carbone NB, Njala J, Jackson DJ, Eliya MT, Chilangwa C, Tseka J, Zulu T, Chinkonde JR, Sherman J, Zimba C, Mofolo IA, Herce ME. "I would love if there was a young woman to encourage us, to ease our anxiety which we would have if we were alone": Adapting the Mothers2Mothers Mentor Mother Model for adolescent mothers living with HIV in Malawi. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217693. [PMID: 31173601 PMCID: PMC6555548 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pregnant and post-partum adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa experience inferior outcomes along the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) cascade compared to their adult counterparts. Yet, despite this inequality in outcomes, scarce data from the region describe AGYW perspectives to inform adolescent-sensitive PMTCT programming. In this paper, we report findings from formative implementation research examining barriers to, and facilitators of, PMTCT care for HIV-infected AGYW in Malawi, and explore strategies for adapting the mothers2mothers (m2m) Mentor Mother Model to better meet AGYW service delivery-related needs and preferences. Methods Qualitative researchers conducted 16 focus group discussions (FGDs) in 4 Malawi districts with HIV-infected adolescent mothers ages 15–19 years categorized into two groups: 1) those who had experience with m2m programming (8 FGDs, n = 38); and 2) those who did not (8 FGDs, n = 34). FGD data were analyzed using thematic analysis to assess major and minor themes and to compare findings between groups. Results Median participant age was 17 years (interquartile range: 2 years). Poverty, stigma, food insecurity, lack of transport, and absence of psychosocial support were crosscutting barriers to PMTCT engagement. While most participants highlighted resilience and self-efficacy as motivating factors to remain in care to protect their own health and that of their children, they also indicated a desire for tailored, age-appropriate services. FGD participants indicated preference for support services delivered by adolescent HIV-infected mentor mothers who have successfully navigated the PMTCT cascade themselves. Conclusions HIV-infected adolescent mothers expressed a preference for peer-led, non-judgmental PMTCT support services that bridge communities and facilities to pragmatically address barriers of stigma, poverty, health system complexity, and food insecurity. Future research should evaluate implementation and health outcomes for adolescent mentor mother services featuring these and other client-centered attributes, such as provision of livelihood assistance and peer-led psychosocial support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph Njala
- University of North Carolina Project/Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Debra J. Jackson
- UNICEF/New York, New York, New York, United States of America
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michael T. Eliya
- Department of HIV and AIDS, Ministry of Health, Government of the Republic of Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Jennifer Tseka
- University of North Carolina Project/Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Tasila Zulu
- University of North Carolina Project/Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | | | - Chifundo Zimba
- University of North Carolina Project/Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Michael E. Herce
- University of North Carolina Project/Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Institute for Global Health & Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Fleming PJ, Rosen JG, Wong VJ, Carrasco MA. Shedding light on a HIV blind spot: Factors associated with men's HIV testing in five African countries. Glob Public Health 2019; 14:1241-1251. [PMID: 30794471 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2019.1583266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Men's relatively low rates of HIV testing has been termed the 'HIV blind spot' and recently declared by UNAIDS as a top priority. This study uses data from five nationally representative Demographic and Health Surveys in Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe to explore factors associated with men's lifetime HIV testing. Between 29.3% and 34.9% of men ages 15-49 in these countries had never tested for HIV and men who held accepting attitudes towards gender-based violence, who lacked HIV knowledge, and who held stigmatising views of HIV were more likely to report never testing for HIV. Findings are interpreted, including a discussion of the possible unintended consequences of current 90-90-90 targets on men's relatively low testing rates. The results point to possible intervention opportunities to increase HIV testing among men in high-HIV prevalence settings in Eastern and Southern Africa and emphasise the importance of changing men's perceptions related to stigma and gender norms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Fleming
- a Department of Health Behavior and Health Education , University of Michigan School of Public Health , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Joseph G Rosen
- b Office of HIV/AIDS , United States Agency for International Development , Washington , DC , USA
| | - Vincent J Wong
- b Office of HIV/AIDS , United States Agency for International Development , Washington , DC , USA
| | - Maria Augusta Carrasco
- b Office of HIV/AIDS , United States Agency for International Development , Washington , DC , USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Bello FO, Musoke P, Kwena Z, Owino GO, Bukusi EA, Darbes L, Turan JM. The role of women's empowerment and male engagement in pregnancy healthcare seeking behaviors in western Kenya. Women Health 2019; 59:892-906. [PMID: 30727846 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2019.1567644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
We sought to understand whether women's empowerment and male partner engagement were associated with use of antenatal care (ANC). Women presenting for ANC in Nyanza province of Kenya between June 2015 and May 2016, were approached for participation. A total of 137 pregnant women and 96 male partners completed baseline assessments. Women's empowerment was measured using the modified Sexual Relationship Power Scale. ANC use measures included timing of the first ANC visit and number of visits. Male engagement was based on whether a husband reported accompanying his wife to one or more antenatal visits during the pregnancy. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors independently related to use and timing of ANC. Women with higher mean empowerment scores were likely to have more than one ANC visit in the index pregnancy [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 2.8, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.1-7.3], but empowerment was not associated with early ANC use. Women who were more empowered were less likely to have a husband who reported attending an ANC visit with his wife (AOR = 0.1, 95% CI: 0.03-0.8). Women's empowerment is important and may be related to ANC use and engagement of male partners in complex ways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatimah Oluwakemi Bello
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| | - Pamela Musoke
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| | - Zachary Kwena
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - George O Owino
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute , Nairobi , Kenya.,Departments of Global Health and Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington , Seattle , Washington , USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California , San Francisco , California , USA
| | - Lynae Darbes
- School of Nursing, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , Michigan , USA
| | - Janet M Turan
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| |
Collapse
|